bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Slow-light all-optical transistors based on single-photon-level light storage
Authors: Zhang Han-Xiao , Tian Xue-Dong , Yang Hong , Yan Dong , Wu Jin-Hui
Published: January 2025

We developed an effective theoretical method to examine the successive propagation dynamics of a gate field and a signal field in an EIT medium of Rydberg atoms exhibiting both self and cross van der Waals (vdW) interactions. It is found that the slow-light storage of this gate field can be achieved with an efficiency up to 73.5% and a negligible modification of photon statistics. More interestingly, even a single stored gate photon can effectively attenuate the otherwise low-loss signal field containing hundreds of photons during its slow-light transport by exploiting the cross vdW interaction. Therefore, benefiting from a direct insight into the simulated propagation dynamics, we have demonstrated that a high-performance all-optical transistor is feasible with its optical gain (22) and contrast (0.999), two important figures of merit, both better than those reported in relevant experiments. More importantly, through the transistor process, we can obtain single photons that exhibit low biphoton correlation and a uniform distribution, distinct from the previous storage process.
Demonstration of fully ion-implanted SiC UV phototransistors with enhanced performance in the far-UVC band
Authors: Liu Yang , Yuan Lei , Zhang Zihan , Sun Yuyin , Zhang Yimeng , Tang Xiaoyan , Jia Renxu , Zhang Yuming
Published: January 2025

In this work, a 4H-SiC phototransistor based on an ion implantation process is demonstrated. The incorporation of a surface pn-junction structure effectively enhances the overall device responsivity, particularly in the far-UVC band, where responsivities of 100.7 A/W at 200 nm and 60.0 A/W at 240 nm are achieved. These values rank among the highest reported for SiC phototransistors operating in the same detection wavelength range. Additionally, TCAD simulations have been employed to verify the effectiveness of this new structure. These results offer a promising design strategy for fabricating high-performance SiC UV phototransistors tailored for far-UVC detection.
Self-powered radiation detector based on an AlScN/SiC heterojunction structure
Authors: Chen Chong , Jia Yuping , Sun Xiaojuan , Liu Mingrui , Ben Jianwei , Shi Zhiming , Lü Shunpeng , Jiang Ke , Wu Tong , Cui Xingzhu , Yin Yin , Li Dabing
Published: January 2025

Conventional SiC alpha particle radiation detectors typically operate under an applied bias of tens to hundreds of volts. This study introduces a self-powered alpha particle detector using an AlScN/SiC heterojunction structure. By optimizing the thickness of the AlScN film, the detector achieves a low dark current (1.3 nA/cm2 at −40 V). Three distinct alpha particle peaks are observed with energy resolutions of 3.7%, 4.2%, and 3.3% for 239Pu, 241Am, and 244Cm, respectively, without external bias. The self-powered capability results from the type II heterojunction between AlScN and SiC, where the hole potential well at the AlScN/SiC interface accumulates holes and enables electron multiplication. The collection of additional current generated by supplementary electrons during transport enhances detection performance without applied bias. This study elucidates the underlying mechanism and proposes an effective strategy to advance SiC-based radiation detection.
Compact microsphere self-interference lithography for polarization-controlled laser parallel nanofabrication
Authors: Gao Zhiwen , Xu Zhiyang , Liang Wei , Zhao Chen , Zhai Tianrui , Zhao Yan , Jiang Yijian , Yan Yinzhou
Published: January 2025

We develop compact microsphere self-interference lithography via a single laser beam incident into a self-assembled dual-layered microsphere array to achieve parallel fabrication of periodic units with nanopatterns (PUNs). Interference units with tens of millions are achieved through micron-thick dual-layered microsphere arrays. The periodic units with nanoholes (NHs), nanogrooves (NGs), and nanoslots (NSs) can be fabricated by simply varying incident laser polarization states. The minimum linewidth is 75 nm (∼λ/4.5), and the single-shot exposure area is up to 1 cm2. An analytical model of polarization-dependent tri-beam interferences is developed to interpret the PUN formation. Au-coated PUNs demonstrate extraordinary performance for customized surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy substrates, of which the polarization sensitivity can be regulated and the limit of detection is down to 3 × 10−10 M. The present work opens up new opportunities for high-throughput laser parallel nanofabrication for various applications.
Positive charging effect in quantum-dot light-emitting diodes
Authors: Bai Jialin , Qin Yue , Yuan Xitong , Wang Song , Wang Ting , Zhang Hanzhuang , Ji Wenyu
Published: January 2025

It is widely accepted that there are significantly more electrons than holes in ZnO-based quantum-dot light-emitting diodes (QLEDs) due to the outstanding electrical properties of the ZnO film. However, here we found that holes but not electrons are stored in the quantum dots (QDs) after turning off the driving voltage. This unexpected hole storage (positive charging) behavior is attributed to the strong confinement effect caused by the wide bandgap shell outside the QDs. Temperature-dependent transient electroluminescence (TrEL) measurements were carried out to confirm the sign of the residual charges and their distribution in the QD emission layer. As temperature decreases, the holes tend to be immobile in the QDs, elevating the concentration of holes within the QD layer away from the ZnO. Consequently, increased EL spike intensity is observed for the QLED during the off period. This positive charging effect reminds us to reconsider the operational mechanisms of QLEDs, especially for the display applications driven by an alternative current mode.
Direct observation of the enhanced photonic spin Hall effect in a subwavelength grating
Authors: Petrov Nikolai I. , Sokolov Yuri M. , Stoiakin Vladimir V. , Danilov Viktor A. , Popov Vladimir V. , Usievich Boris A.
Published: January 2025

The photonic spin Hall effect (PSHE) in surface plasmon resonance (SPR) structures has great potential for various polarization-sensitive applications and devices. Here, using optical weak measurement, we observe spin-dependent and spin-independent angular shifts of the reflected beam, enhanced by SPR in a subwavelength nickel grating. An enhanced in-plane photonic spin Hall effect manifested in the angular splitting of circularly polarized photons with opposite helicity signs is demonstrated. We theoretically and experimentally demonstrate that angular in-plane shifts can be changed from spin-independent (Goos–Hänchen (GH) shift) to spin-dependent (PSHE) when the incident beam polarization state changes. The SPR-induced depolarization of light and the mixing of polarization states are detected. High purity of spin separation and a high degree of circular polarization are achieved with an optimal polarization state (preselection angle) and a resonance angle of incidence. A novel, to the best of our knowledge, phenomenon of the spinless spatial separation of two orthogonal components of the field with diagonal linear polarizations is demonstrated.
Supercontinuum generation in a methane-filled hollow-core antiresonant fiber
Authors: Plosz Balazs , Lekosiotis Athanasios , Sabbah Mohammad , Belli Federico , Brahms Christian , Travers John C.
Published: January 2025

We report the generation of a multi-octave supercontinuum spanning from 350 nm to 1700 nm with exceptional spectral flatness and high conversion efficiency to both visible and near-infrared regions, by pumping a methane-filled hollow-core antiresonant fiber with 1030 nm laser pulses. The dynamics exhibited signs of both modulational instability (MI) and stimulated Raman scattering (SRS). Fiber lengths ranging from 15 cm to 200 cm were investigated along with gas pressures up to 50 bar and pump pulse durations from 220 fs up to 10 ps. The best supercontinuum, in terms of spectral width and flatness, was achieved with 220 fs pulses, 25 bar filling pressure, and 60 cm propagation length. Comparison with argon-filled fiber with matched nonlinearity and dispersion showed that the Raman contribution enhances the supercontinuum generation process compared to a pure modulational instability-based process. The average power was scaled up by increasing the pulse repetition rate to 50 kHz, but further scaling was hindered by linear and nonlinear absorption, leading to fiber damage.
Impact of uniform illumination in widefield microscopy and mesoscopy: An efficient flat-field imaging solution
Authors: Ünlü M. Selim , Aslan Mete , Gray Alexander , Packard Logan , GIORGETTA Caeden , Bigio Irving
Published: January 2025

Illumination uniformity is critical for widefield optical microscopy, especially for high-throughput and accurate quantitative imaging of biological specimens. While traditional Köhler illumination improves uniformity, it often fails to deliver homogeneous intensity across large fields of view. Existing optical and computational correction techniques remain inadequate for a broad range of quantitative imaging applications. Here, we implement a novel illumination device that we call the effective uniform color-light integration device (EUCLID), quantifying improvements in two widefield imaging modalities that require uniform illumination. For both imaging modalities, we demonstrate significantly improved precision of quantitative measurements compared to traditional Köhler illumination. The EUCLID device, which can also provide uniform spectral mixing, can be readily adapted to many other widefield imaging modalities to enhance imaging accuracy and reliability, with low cost and ease of implementation.
New results concerning a Schrödinger equation involving
logarithmic nonlinearity
Authors: Cai Yaqing , Zhao Yulin , Luo Chaoliang
Published: January 2025

In this paper, we investigate the existence of ground state
solution to a class of Schrödinger equation involving logarithmic
nonlinearity. To overcome the lack of smoothness, the
corresponding functional

J

is first decomposed into the sum of a

C

1

functional and a convex lower semicontinuous
functional by adapting
to the approach of Squassina–Szulkin in
[Calc. Var. Partial
Differential Equations 54(2015), 585–597].
Secondly, the existence
of a ground state solution to the studied
equation is proved by
using the Mountain Pass Theorem under the
weakened
Ambrosetti–Rabinowitz conditions.
Prospects for the use of polyphenols in patients with bronchial asthma and obesity
Authors: Beloglazov V. A. , Yatskov I. A. , Moik A. A. , Moik Andrey Vladimirovich
Published: January 2025

Asthma and obesity are diseases characterized by variability in the course and possible complications, the frequency of which is steadily increasing from year to year. The correlation between obesity and asthma is still an acute problem of the health care system. Representing very common diseases, they aggravate each other’s course and significantly worsen the quality of life. Polyphenols are a promising option to solve the existing problem. These low molecular weight compounds are biologically active substances capable of influencing on many metabolic processes in the body. This review demonstrates the multiple properties of these unique micronutrients, including antioxidant, anti-carcinogenic, anti-inflammatory, metabolic, neuroprotective and many others. The integration of polyphenols into the daily diet can contribute to strengthening public health, reducing the frequency and progression of socially significant diseases, and using these compounds in diseases such as asthma and obesity, according to numerous modern studies, it is possible to achieve a significant therapeutic effect at all. The purpose of this literature review is to trace the correlation between the effect of using polyphenols and changes in the course of the disease and quality of life in patients with asthma on the background of obesity, based on facts from advanced sources.
Familial hypocalciuric hypercalciemia: clinical case report
Authors: Sudnitsyna A. S. , Lyapunova A. I. , Suplotova L. A.
Published: January 2025

Hypercalcemia is a laboratory-confirmed syndrome with an increase in blood calcium levels above 2.55 mmol/l. A number of authors claim that the most common causes of hypercalcemia are malignant neoplasms, primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT), vitamin D intoxication, and chronic kidney disease. One of the rarest causes to consider in patients with newly diagnosed hypercalcemia is familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia syndrome (FHH). FHH is a genetic autosomal dominant disorder characterized by decreased urinary calcium levels and increased blood calcium levels in combination with normal or above-reference PTH levels. The presented case demonstrates the need to perform a differential diagnosis of hypercalcemia syndrome, the importance of calculating the ratio of renal calcium clearance to creatinine clearance, which is currently the most accessible method and allows one to avoid unjustified parathyroidectomy.
Hypophosphatasia diagnosis in adults: clinical case and literature review
Authors: Magerramova S. T. , Tyutyugina Yu. V. , Belaya Zh. E.
Published: January 2025

Hypophosphatasia (HPP) is an inherited metabolic disease characterized by low activity of tissue non-specific alkaline phosphatase (TNAP) due to mutations in the ALPL gene [1]. The low activity of TNAP leads to the systematic accumulation of its substrates, namely inorganic pyrophosphate (PPi), a strong inhibitor of mineralization, and pyridoxal-5’-phosphate (PLP), a cofactor of several enzymes, which largely explain the musculoskeletal and systemic features of the disease. Hypophosphatasia is characterized by a wide range of manifestations and varying degrees of severity: from asymptomatic course in carriers of the ALPL mutation to intrauterine death in perinatal form. This article will discuss the manifestation of the disease in adulthood, which requires differential diagnosis with postmenopausal osteoporosis.
Antibacterial influences of accacia spp. in ed-duiem locality, White Nile province, Sudan. a chemical, pharmaceutical and traditional medicine overview
Authors: Rayan.Ali Abdalla.
Published: January 2025

This study was focused on potential medicinal influences of the medium layer extracts of Accacia nilotica plants on inhibition of pathogenic aureus influences of Staphylococcus bacteria. Plant extracts were done to achieve water extracts with different concentrations. Chemical and physical tests were done to access the activity of; the former include [flavonoids, glycosides, sapiens, resins, phenols, alkaloids, and tannins], the latter include [pH and temperature] as potential affecters for Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. Samples were collected from patients in Ed-Duiem hospital, White Nile Province, Sudan. Study results significantly showed (p≤0.05) that Accacia spp. Extracts are effective bacterial inhibitors.
Editorial Investigación científica en marketing
Authors: Páramo Morales Dagoberto
Published: January 2025

Este editorial examina la trayectoria y estado actual de la investigación científica en marketing, abordando las tensiones epistemológicas que han caracterizado su desarrollo. Se analiza críticamente el predominio del paradigma positivista en la investigación de marketing y se establece una necesaria diferenciación entre la investigación científica y la investigación de mercados, cuya confusión ha generado importantes desafíos conceptuales y metodológicos. El texto explora el surgimiento de aproximaciones alternativas como la investigación cualitativa, los métodos basados en arte, la investigación narrativa y el enfoque histórico, que han abierto nuevas vías para comprender los fenómenos de marketing desde perspectivas culturales y sociales más amplias. Se plantea que el marketing se encuentra en un momento crucial para desarrollar su propia identidad epistemológica, ontológica y metodológica, requiriendo para ello la consolidación de un método propio y la definición clara de su objeto de estudio.
Factibilidad comercial y ambiental de una ruta turística en la zona centro del departamento del Huila (Colombia)
Authors: Leiva Andrade Yolanda , Vélez Trujillo Maryuri , Cuesta Vieda Angee Cristina
Published: January 2025

Este artículo determinó la factibilidad comercial, ambiental de una ruta turística en la zona centro del departamento del Huila. Para ello se determinaron los atractivos turísticos de la zona, se identificó la factibilidad comercial y se analizó la sostenibilidad ambiental del producto. La recolección de la información se realizó por medio de la Cámara de Comercio de Neiva, sede Garzón, tomando como población a los aportantes con Registro Nacional de Turismo, de los ocho municipios que conforman la zona, que ofrecían servicios de alojamiento y alimentación. La caracterización de los sitios se realizó por medio de una encuesta para trazar la ruta con el uso de Google Maps. Finalmente, arrojó como conclusión la riqueza de atractivos naturales y patrimoniales, exaltó la oferta y la demanda del inventario turístico y sumó las políticas de fomento en sostenibilidad ambiental.
Intracellular Distribution of Photofrin® in Malignant and Normal Endothelial Cell Lines
Authors: Saczko Jolanta , Mazurkiewicz M. , Chwiłkowska A. , Kulbacka J. , Kramer G. , Ługowski M. , Śnietura M. , Banaś T.
Published: January 2025

Compared to current treatments including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, PDT offers the advantage of an effective and selective method of destroying diseased tissues without damaging surrounding healthy tissues. One of the aspects of antitumour effectiveness of PDT is related to the distribution of photosensitizing drugs. The localization of photosensitizers in cytoplasmic organelles during PDT plays a major role in the cell destruction; therefore, intracellular localization of Ph in malignant and normal cells was investigated. The cell lines used throughout the study were: human malignant A549, MCF-7, Me45 and normal endothelial cell line HUV-EC-C. After incubation with Ph cells were examined using fluorescence and confocal microscopy to visualize the photosensitizer accumulation. For cytoplasm and mitochondria identification, cells were stained with CellTracker Green and MitoTracker Green, respectively. Distribution of Ph was different in malignant and normal cells and dependent on the incubation time. The maximal concentration of Ph in two malignant cell lines (A549 and MCF-7) was observed after 4 hours of incubation, and the most intensive signal was observed around the nuclear envelope. Intracellular distribution of Ph in the Me45 cell line showed that the fluorescence emitted by Ph overlaid that from MitoTracker. This indicates preferential accumulation of the sensitizer in mitochondria. Our results based on the mitochondrial localization support the idea that PDT can contribute to elimination of malignant cells by inducing apoptosis, which is of physiological significance.
Characteristics and mineralogy of sediments in the Hongsa lignite deposit, northwestern Laos
Authors: Sattraburut Thunyapat , Thasod Yupa , Ratanasthien Benjavun , Vongvassana Sirasit
Published: January 2025

Two sediment cores from the central part of the Hongsa lignite deposit in northwestern Lao PDR (Lao People’s Democratic Republic; Laos) have been analysed in order to understand their sedimentary characteristics using grain-size analysis, petrography, X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. This analysis has revealed that the deposit is primarily composed of fine-grained sediments, mainly silt and clay, with quartz as the dominant mineral and trace amounts of other minerals such as kaolinite, illite and montmorillonite. Gypsum and chlorite have also been found in some layers. Scanning electron microscope analysis has revealed a card-house structure of clay minerals, suggesting sedimentation from suspension driven by physico-chemical reactions influenced by pH and water chemistry. This arrangement increases porosity and water retention, significantly affecting the permeability and mechanical properties of sediments. Petrographic analysis has documented angular quartz and poorly sorted sediments, indicating minimal sediment reworking or short-distance sources. The palaeoenvironment of the Hongsa Basin, reconstructed from various rock units, suggests low-energy water conditions for the Underburden and moderate sediment supply in a wet forest swamp or bush moor environment for the Lower Lignite Zone Formation. The Middle Lignite Zone Formation indicates a more limited sediment supply in a similar environment, while Interburden Formation 1 suggests overbank deposits or stagnant water deposits. In summary, the Neogene Hongsa lignite deposit is characterised by fine-grained sediments, indicating low-energy water currents in mire environments. Occasional flood events brought coarser grains, although movement of facies should also be taken into account. The mineral composition suggests the presence of components derived from recycled sedimentary rocks along the northern border of the Hongsa Basin.
Adventures in Volcanoland: What Volcanoes Tell Us About the World and Ourselves
Authors: Scarpati Claudio
Published: January 2025

Adventures in Volcanoland: What Volcanoes Tell Us About the World and Ourselves by Tamsin Mather, 2024. ABACUS books, 368 pages. Hardcover price € 30.79, paperback prize € 13.08, eBook price € 3.99, ISBN: 978-1408714614
Geological objects and structures in 3D: observation, interpretation and building of 3D Models
Authors: Stawikowski Wojciech
Published: January 2025

Geological objects and structures in 3D: observation, interpretation and building of 3D Models, by D. Frizon de Lamotte, P. Leturmy, P. Souloumiac & A. Frizon de Lamotte, 2021. CRC Press, London, 138 pages. Paperback: price GBP 39.09, ISBN 978-0367497507
Edukacja patriotyczna w szkołach polonijnych na podstawie analizy scenariuszy uroczystości rocznicowych z okazji 11 listopada, 2 maja i 3 maja w Belgii w latach 2018-2022
Authors: Radomska-T’Seyen Katarzyna
Published: January 2025

Tematem artykułu jest refleksja na temat wychowania patriotycznego dzieci i młodzieży w Belgii w kontekście uzupełniającej działalności oświatowej w szkołach polonijnych. Wychowanie patriotyczne, obok rozwoju kompetencji językowych, stanowi dla Polaków mieszkających poza granicami kraju jedno z najistotniejszych zadań edukacji polonistycznej kształtującej tożsamość kulturową. Poczucie patriotyzmu kształtuje się nie tylko poprzez zdobywanie wiedzy przekazywanej przez rodziców i nauczycieli, ale również poprzez aktywny udział w rocznicowych obchodach najważniejszych świąt narodowych: Święta Narodowego Trzeciego Maja, Dnia Flagi RP oraz Dnia Polonii i Polaków za Granicą, jak również Święta Niepodległości.
Interaction of Linguistic and Literary Aspects in the Context of the Cultural Diversity of the Turkic Peoples of Central Asia
Authors: Omorov Aitmamat , Chokoeva Dilbar , Kalchakeyev Kubanychbek , Sheripbayev Amangeldi , Kochorova Gulumkan
Published: January 2025

The purpose of the study was to investigate the linguistic and literary components within the framework of the cultural diversity of Central Asian peoples of the Turkic ethnic group. The study analysed the linguistic features of the Turkic languages and their mutual influence through literary texts and oral traditions, with an emphasis on the processes of borrowing and adaptation of linguistic elements in a multilingual environment. The study examined scientific sources on linguistics and ethnolinguistics, and compared phonetic, morphological, and syntactic features of the Kazakh, Uzbek, Turkmen, and Kyrgyz languages in a historical context. The analysis of borrowings from Persian, Arabic, and Russian languages, content analysis of literary texts and folklore works, and an assessment of the role of mass media and the Internet in popularising Turkic languages were also included in the study. The results showed that the Turkic languages have gone through a difficult path of evolution under the influence of various cultural and political factors, such as the Mongol conquests and Russification in the Soviet period. The languages were significantly enriched with borrowings from Persian, Arabic, and Russian, which affected their vocabulary and grammar.
Towards future of work in immersive environments and its impact on the Quality of Working Life: a scoping review
Authors: Paetow Thomas , Wichmann Johannes , Leyer Michael , Schmolke Marianne
Published: January 2025

In recent years, immersive environments and the technologies employed within them, such as Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Mixed Reality (MR), have become increasingly significant, particularly in the domains of education, work, and entertainment. Moreover, the concept of persistent, immersive virtual worlds – commonly referred to as Metaverses – has gained attention due to advancements and opportunities in VR and AR. These immersive environments are transforming how we work, especially in communication, coordination, and collaboration. Hence, an important question that arises is how these environments influence Quality of Working Life (QWL). This study provides an overview of the effects of immersive environments on QWL. We conducted a scoping review following the framework by Arksey and O’Malley in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. The findings identify three major QWL topics influenced by immersive environments: (i) Mental Health, highlighting stress reduction and well-being enhancement; (ii) Safety & Prevention, emphasizing accident prevention and risk mitigation; and (iii) Workplace Design, focusing on improved ergonomics. We derive practical implications for QWL and provide theoretical implications to scoping reviews. While our study considered the short-term effects of such technologies as limitations, future studies should address the long-term effects of immersive environments on QWL.
Quantum control in size selected semiconductor quantum dot thin films
Authors: Kärcher Victor , Reiker Tobias , da Costa Pedro F.G.M. , de Camargo Andrea S.S. , Zacharias Helmut
Published: January 2025

We introduce a novel technique for coherent control that employs resonant internally generated fields in CdTe quantum dot (QD) thin films at the L-point. The bulk band gap of CdTe at the L-point amounts to 3.6 eV, with the transition marked by strong Coulomb coupling. Third harmonic generation (λ
3 = 343 nm, hν = 3.61 eV) for a fundamental wavelength of λ
1 = 1,030 nm is used to control quantum interference of three-photon resonant paths between the valence and conduction bands. Different thicknesses of the CdTe QDs are used to manipulate the phase relationship between the external fundamental and the internally generated third harmonic, resulting in either suppression or strong enhancement of the resonant third harmonic, while the nonresonant components remain nearly constant. This development could pave the way for new quantum interference–based applications in ultrafast switching of nanophotonic devices.
A novel samarium(III) orotate complex [NaSm(orotate)4(H2O)10]·3H2O – crystal structure and vibrational spectra
Authors: Helios Katarzyna , Brzezińska Marta , Bednarchuk Tamara J.
Published: January 2025

A novel Sm(III) orotate complex, [NaSm(orotate)4(H2O)10]·3H2O, has been synthesized and its structure determined by single crystal X-ray diffraction and vibrational (IR and Raman) spectroscopic methods. The title compound crystallizes in the non-centrosymmetric orthorhombic space group Cmc21 with Z = 4. In the crystal structure, one of the two independent orotate ligands links the Sm(III) and Na(I) cations, forming chains. The second orotate ligand completes the coordination environment of the Na(I) ion, resulting in layers that are parallel to the ab plane. This arrangement leads to an extensive three-dimensional network structure, characterized by numerous intermolecular O–H⋯O and N–H⋯O interactions.
Mechanical and Microstructural Properties of Geopolymer Incorporated with Copper Slag Activated by Phosphoric Acid
Authors: Sundaram Kashini , Dharmar Brindha
Published: January 2025

In this study, fly ash (FA), a kind of aluminosilicate precursor, is activated by phosphoric aid (H3PO4) to produce a silico-aluminophosphate geopolymer. This study aims to assess the viability of substituting M-sand with varying proportions, ranging from 0 % to 100 %, of copper slag in geopolymer mortar. The alkaline-activated geopolymer mortar was produced by using sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and sodium silicate. The phosphoric acid-activated geopolymer (PGP) samples were produced by changing parameters such as the liquid/solids (L/S) ratio, curing temperature, and molarity of H3PO4. The L/S ratios examined were 0.8, 0.9, and 1.0, whereas the molarities of H3PO4 employed were 8 M, 10 M, and 12 M. An assessment was conducted on the compressive strength, scanning electron microscope (SEM) examination, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and energy dispersive X-ray analysis of PGP. The findings indicated a positive correlation between the compressive strength and the molarity, whereas a negative correlation was observed between the compressive strength and the L/S ratio. The highest compressive strength obtained was 41.1 MPa, which occurred when the optimum concentration of H3PO4 was 10 M. The formation of the P-O-Si-O-Al-O polymeric structure contributed to the strength of the phosphoric acid-based FA geopolymer. The SEM images demonstrated that the geopolymer samples containing 100 % copper slag and a L/S ratio of 0.9 exhibited a compact and uniform microstructure, resulting in enhanced strength characteristics.
En matière d’évaluation des compétences, la formation professionnelle au Québec est-elle « compétente » ?
Authors: Dupuis Stéphane , Caron Paola , Sirois Angie , Bisson Johanna , Beaulieu Claudine , Beaucher Chantale
Published: January 2025

Une réflexion a lieu en matière d’évaluation des compétences en formation professionnelle (FP) au Québec. Cette réflexion concerne notamment le développement de compétences et les contraintes d’évaluation vécues dans les centres de formation. La FP au Québec est-elle « compétente » dans l’évaluation des compétences? Dans son état actuel, elle ne l’est probablement pas. Pour que la FP le devienne, il est proposé d’exploiter des situations professionnelles authentiques. Cependant, cela exige du courage, voire de l’audace, des ressources et un lâcher-prise sur des croyances persistantes sur les plans du développement et de l’évaluation des compétences.
Utilizing Remote Sensing for Monitoring Land Cover Changes and Land Surface Temperature Fluctuations
Authors: Phommavong Ketsana , Yan Jianguo
Published: January 2025

Land cover change detection supports many kinds of environmental and human development initiatives in both developed and developing countries over the past twenty-three years, Laos has experienced massive changes in land use resulting in corresponding increases in surface temperature. These changes have been little studied or evaluated empirically. To address this gap, this research study focused on tracking land cover change detection (LCCD) and Land surface temperature (LST) change in the study area of Thakhet Laos. Landsat 5, 8, and Modis datasets were used to analyze the relationship between land use and LST from 2000 to 2023. According to the LCCD results, the forest area decreased from 46,912 km² in 2000 to 33,955 km² in 2023, likely due to human activities and urban transition, while bare land increased and agricultural land decreased. In 2000 the LST values in the study area varied widely. The lowest recorded value is 24°C while the highest is 33°C. In 2023, the LST values ranged from 20°C to 41°C, this indicates an increase in temperatures compared to the previous years overall. The observed increase in urban areas, such as population movement, economic development, industrialization, and urban job creation could be a factor driving the LCCD and LST change.
An invisible storyteller or a loud recreator? A translator-centered approach to the translation of children’s literature
Authors:   AAB College, Kosovo, Alla Aida
Published: January 2025

This paper aims to demonstrate that, like the original author, a translator of children’s literature (hereafter CH. L.) possesses a distinct style or idiolect, shaped by both linguistic and extralinguistic expectations. The study focuses on the first three books of the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling, translated into Albanian by Amik Kasoruho, who is renowned for his contributions to the translation of classic adult literature. Given the study’s scope, the analysis will concentrate exclusively on Kasoruho’s creative use of the lexicon in the Albanian translation. Both internal and external factors are considered to identify and analyze translator Kasoruho’s idiolect at the lexical level. Internally, sentences containing words and phrases with common patterns (e.g., archaic terms, dialectal expressions, phraseological units, substandard words) are selected from the target text. These are compared with their counterparts in the source text to determine whether such patterns reflect the author’s style or the translator’s linguistic preferences. Externally, these lexical clusters are assessed against the norms of children’s literature translation (Ch. L. T.) to ascertain whether the translator adhered to or deviated from these norms. The findings suggest that the translator’s linguistic idiosyncrasies significantly influence the translation process.
Putting languages into perspective: A comprehensive database of English words and their Croatian equivalents
Authors:   University of Rijeka, Faculty of Maritime Studies, Croatia, Jelčić Čolakovac Jasmina , Bogunović Irena
Published: January 2025

Numerous studies have addressed the issue of English words in the context of their adaptation, but there still exists the need for a systematic perspective on English words in terms of their number and frequency of appearance. This article will outline the procedure behind the compilation process of unadapted English words in the Croatian language with a comprehensive description of the final product – an open-access database of single- (SWE) and multi-word (MWE) English expressions extracted from Croatian web corpora (ENGRI and hrWaC) by means of computational-linguistic tools and manual extraction. The final version of the database contains 2,982 English words in their unadapted form (e.g. blockbuster), and 18 words which appear with English orthographic properties in combination with Croatian inflectional affixes (e.g. downloadati). Each SWE and MWE entry in the database is accompanied with frequencies of appearance in both corpora as well as its Croatian equivalent where available (29.58% of all entries are listed without an equivalent). The database serves as the first systematic representation of English words in Croatian and provides an indispensable tool for further research into the phenomenon while at the same time opening the door to a new line of research – cognitive processing of English words in Croatian.
Phonetics and phonology of sound perception in a changing system
Authors:   Masaryk University, Czech Republic, Chybras Yurii
Published: January 2025

Since the establishment of phonology as a separate branch of linguistics, scholars such as N. Trubetzkoy, C. B. Chang, E. de Leeuw, D. LaCharité, and others have demonstrated that phonological principles serve as the fundamental framework for sound perception. In particular, the key concepts of phonological sieve, approximation, language attrition and language drift show steady patterns of phonology driven sound perception. However, not all instances of sound perception adhere strictly to such phonological principles. This article examines a case of sound perception in Ukrainian revealing that, under the circumstances of phonological instability, the basic principle of sound perception may tend to shift from phonologically to phonetically driven sound perception.
The Relevance of the Concept of Cyberfeminism in a Policy Perspective Based on Digital Gender Equity in Indonesia
Authors: Aripkah Nur , Asufie Khairunnisa Noor , Sadrianor Sadrianor , Musa Norsuhaida Che
Published: January 2025

Efficiency in communicating and searching for information makes things easier for us in the current era of modern digitalization. This is directly proportional to the emergence of various forms of digital crime, such as online gender-based violence. The existence of a bias in terms of the meaning of technology by women which is influenced by the history and culture of construction makes it necessary to understand technology as part of a culture that expresses and consolidates relations between men and women. Technology with its sophistication seems to have a masculine nature. The feminine nature inherent in women is considered not in harmony with the way technology works. The focus of the discussion in this writing is to find how the concept of cyberfeminism should be relevant to policy based on digital gender equity in Indonesia. The research method used is doctrinal with a statutory approach, a conceptual approach, and a historical approach. The results of the research show that in terms of normative legal policy in Indonesia, legal regulations have been created to make preventive efforts and overcome the problem of gender-based violence, especially against women. However, the phenomenon of gender-based violence continues to occur, especially in vulnerable groups, namely women and children. Of course, all existing policies must be responsive to digital-based gender equity, especially the Sexual Violence Crime Law and the Information and Electronic Transactions Law.
Lack of intracranial atherosclerosis in various atherosclerotic mouse models
Authors: Bink Diewertje I , Ritz Katja , Mackaaij Claire , Stam Olga , Scheffer Sanny , Mizee Mark R , Ploegmakers Hanneke J , van het Hof Bert J , de Boer Onno J , Sluimer Judith C , De Meyer Guido R Y , van der Weerd Louise , de Vries Helga E , Daemen Mat J A P
Published: January 2025

Although mice are used extensively to study atherosclerosis of different vascular beds, limited data are published on the occurrence of intracranial atherosclerosis. Since intracranial atherosclerosis is a common cause of stroke and is associated with dementia, a relevant animal model is needed to study these diseases. We examined the presence of intracranial atherosclerosis in different atherogenic mouse strains and studied differences in vessel wall characteristics in mouse and human tissue in search of possible explanations for the differing atherosclerotic susceptibility between extracranial and intracranial vessels. The presence of atherosclerotic plaques was systematically examined from the distal common carotids to the circle of Willis in three atherogenic mouse models. Extra- and intracranial vessel characteristics were studied by immunohistochemistry. All three strains developed atherosclerotic lesions in the common carotids, while no lesions were found intracranially. This coincided with altered vessel morphology. Compared to extracranial sections, intracranially the number of elastic layers decreased, tight junction markers increased, and antioxidant enzyme heme oxygenase (HO)-1 increased. Higher HO-1 expression was also shown in human intracranial arteries. Human brain endothelial cell stimulation with oxidized LDL induced endogenous protective antioxidant HO-1 levels through NRF2 translocation. Intracranial atherosclerosis was absent in three atherogenic mouse models. Intracranial vessel segments showed an increased presence of junction markers in mice and increased HO-1 in both mice and human tissue. We suggest that differences in brain vessel structure and induced antioxidant levels in the brain endothelium found in mouse and human tissue may contribute to the decreased atherosclerosis susceptibility of intracranial arteries.
The relationship between anxiety, depression, and COVID-19 diagnosis in term pregnancy: a hospital-based Romanian study
Authors: Caracostea Gabriela , Hirișcău Elisabeta Ioana , Preda Andreia Paraschiva , Turta Teodora , Ionescu Lavinia Argentina , Lupu Izabela Ramona , Surcel Mihai , Marta Monica Mihaela , Lupu Viorel , Matu Silviu
Published: January 2025

Background and aim. There are few published data on the mental health problems of women with pregnancy complicated by SARS-CoV-2 infection. Our study aimed to evaluate anxiety and depression related to a COVID-19 diagnosis in women who gave birth in a Romanian tertiary maternity.
Methods. A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted between September 2020 and October 2021 on 105 women admitted for term delivery; 51 women were diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 infection just before delivery, and 54 without infection. Participants were assessed during the first 72 hours postpartum (T1) and the following two weeks postpartum (T2). Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) was used for anxiety and depression assessment at T1. The COVID-19 Pandemic Mental Health Questionnaire (CoPaQ) was applied at T2 only in the COVID-positive cases identified at T1.
Results. Postnatal anxiety levels were higher in COVID-positive women compared to COVID-negative women (p = .004), but there were no differences in the postnatal depression level between the groups. Psychological manifestations related to the pandemic, such as contamination anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) symptoms, were positively related to HADS anxiety scores, while maintaining social relationships were negatively associated with the scale. The COVID-19 diagnosis was found to be a significant predictor for adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs), with COVID-positive women having a 4.72-fold higher risk of developing them than those who tested COVID-negative (OR=4.72, 95% CI [2.05; 10.86]). The multivariate analysis using anxiety and depression as dependent variables indicated a significant effect for COVID-19 diagnosis, Wilks’ Lambda = 0.940, p = 0.048.
Conclusion. Increased levels of anxiety, PTSD, and obsessive-compulsive symptoms were associated with the postpartum period in pregnant women with COVID-19 infection during delivery. Maintaining social interaction proved to be a protective factor against the increased anxiety reported by COVID-19-infected women.
Use of spatial analysis in the mining field in the Udorka Valley. Introduction to geoarchaeological search for flint workshops at site 24 in Poręba Dzierżna (Małopolska Province, southern Poland)
Authors: Binnebesel Hubert
Published: January 2025

The prehistoric chocolate flint mine in the Udorka Valley (site 24 in Poręba Dzierżna, Lesser Poland Voivodeship, southern Poland) has been under excavation since 2018. It is the first mine of this raw material discovered outside the Świętokrzyskie Mountains. The currently available dating indicates that the mine was used in the Mesolithic and Neolithic periods.Spatial analysis of artifacts from the fill of the mine shaft allowed for the reconstruction of individual phases of its formation. It also questioned the issue of homogeneity of the assemblage of artifacts from this mining facility and from the overlying layers. Although they are of the workshop type, their simultaneity should be doubted. In order to establish the chronological and cultural framework of flint production in the mining field, it seems necessary to determine the original location of the workshop, which was destroyed and washed out as a result of some kind of runoff. This flow created the sediment that now lies above the shafts, and which is extremely rich in flint artifacts.
Ground Penetrating Radar Survey of the Lithuanian Part of Medzhybizh Castle
Authors: Vietrov Victor , Bondar Kseniia M.
Published: January 2025

We present the results of recent geophysical and archaeological investigations conducted in Medzhybizh castle located in the Western Ukraine. Architectural and restoration studies that lasted more than 50 years revealed a part of the castle built during the Lithuanian period, in the 14th-15th centuries. Our study is focused on ground penetrating radar (GPR) surveys on the courtyards of the castle including the Lithuanian part, and inside the buildings. The GPR survey was capable of seeing elements of the ancient architecture under a horizon of debris and soil up to 3 m thick. Possible structures of Lithuanian castle were suggested and confirmed by recent archaeological excavations. These are fragments of the Western Wall, stone construction stretching along the façade of the Southern Building, fundament ditch of the inner wall in the Southern Building.
APPLICATION OF IONIZING RADIATION IN THE PRESERVATION AND CONSERVATION OF TAXIDERMIED ANIMAL SKINS IN NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUMS
Authors: Lupo Carmina , Alves de Oliveira Maria José , S. Araujo Mariana , Otubo Larissa , Mello Castanho Sonia , Vasquez Pablo Antônio Salvador
Published: January 2025

The great interest in the development of research involving ionizing radiation aims to significantly increase the conservation of the skins of taxidermized animals, both for scientific collections and on display, causing their infection and disinfestation, without altering their originality, reducing the use of chemical products, presenting a safe and efficient technology. The preservation of taxidermied mammals has been widely used for educational, scientific and Museum display purposes. However, prolonged exposure to environmental factors or the excessive use of chemicals to store these materials in the collection can affect the integrity of the skin of these animals. In this study, we investigated the effects of gamma radiation on the structure and composition of the skin of taxidermied mammals, with the aim of contributing to a better understanding of conservation processes and the potential risks they may entail. Taxidermy is an animal preservation technique that has been used for centuries, allowing specimens to be arranged in their natural form and/or preserved for scientific studies. Samples of skin from animals from the Brazilian flora were selected, deer, coati, prawn and bison, and these samples were irradiated at doses of 1, 3, 5, 10 and 15 kGy. After gamma irradiation, they were characterized by colorimetry, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), optical microscopy (OM), infrared microscopy (FTIR) and mechanical analysis. The results show that the doses of gamma irradiation that the samples were subjected to did not compromise their physical and chemical integrity. This indicates the possibility of using gamma radiation for disinfestation and disinfection.