bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clean hydrogen production from ammonia decomposition over zeolite 13X-supported Ni catalysts
Authors: Kim Jiyu , Kim Kyoung Deok , Jung Unho , Park Yongha , Lee Ki Bong , Koo Kee Young
Published: January 2024

Ni/zeolite 13X catalyst synthesized by deposition–precipitation exhibits improved low-temperature performance for NH3 decomposition owing to high dispersion and uniform deposition of active Ni on the surface and in the pores of the zeolite support.
Electrochemical dinitrogen to ammonia reduction at a nickel(ii) site: an easy access to an air-stable catalyst
Authors: Kumar Jayasree , Mohan Nikhil George , Gurusamy Tamilselvi , Gorantla Sai Manoj N. V. T. , Ravichandran Prathap , Mondal Kartik Chandra , Ramanujam Kothandaraman
Published: January 2024

The electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) for producing NH3 (ammonia) is a suitable alternative to the Haber–Bosch process due to its eco-friendly and non-polluting nature.
Multichromophoric photoswitches for solar energy storage: from azobenzene to norbornadiene, and MOST things in between
Authors: Salthouse Rebecca J. , Moth-Poulsen Kasper
Published: January 2024

In the context of energy storage, multichromophoric systems may offer additional functionality over monosubstituted analogues due to their potential to access multiple states as well as having more attractive physical properties.
Disclosing the true atomic structure of {001} facets in shape-engineered TiO2 anatase nanoparticles
Authors: Pantaleone Stefano , Pellegrino Francesco , Maurino Valter , Corno Marta , Ugliengo Piero , Mino Lorenzo
Published: January 2024

Combining IR spectroscopy and DFT modelling, we show that in shape-engineered TiO2 anatase nanoparticles capping agents’ thermal removal leads to a reconstruction of {001} facets compatible with the “add-oxygen” and not with the “add-molecule” model.
Ultrathin sillenite nanosheets with wide-spectrum response and high photocatalytic oxidation performance
Authors: Sun Hao , Wang Chen , Zhang Yaning , Shao Yunhang , Bian Gaoming , Wang Zhenlin , Chen Chaofeng , Liu Hongyan , Dou Shuai , Xu Jing , Zhang Ying , Lou Yang , Zhu Yongfa , Pan Chengsi
Published: January 2024

γ-Bi2O3 nanosheets effectively promote charge separation and enhance antibiotic degradation and oxygen evolution activity.
Synergistic mediation of dual donor levels in CNS/BOCB-OV heterojunctions for enhanced photocatalytic CO2 reduction
Authors: Fang Ruiming , Yang Zhongqing , Sun Jiajun , Zhu Chenxuan , Chen Yanglin , Wang Ziqi , Xue Can
Published: January 2024

Construction of CNS/BOCB-OV heterostructures with N/O vacancies leads to new donor energy levels that create a new pathway for interfacial charge transfer to improve charge separation and enhance photocatalytic activities for CO2 reduction.
Enhanced Li-ion intercalation kinetics and lattice oxygen stability in single-crystalline Ni-rich Co-poor layered cathodes
Authors: Zhang Hujun , Qin Li , Sedlacik Michal , Saha Petr , Cheng Qilin , Yu Haifeng , Jiang Hao
Published: January 2024

Ba/Al co-doping effectively lower the calcination temperature, greatly reduces Li/Ni mixing and expands the c-axis parameter, and stabilizes the lattice oxygen, resulting in enhanced Li-diffusion kinetics and excellent cycle life.
Recent advances of hydrogels as smart dressings for diabetic wounds
Authors: Wang Xu , Yang Yuhan , Zhao Weifeng , Zhu Zhou , Pei Xibo
Published: January 2024

This review highlights the latest progress of smart hydrogel dressings for bandaging, monitoring and therapy of diabetic wounds.
Increasing Student Self-Efficacy in Aphasia Through a Simulated Escape Room
Authors: Tinsley Jordan , Stead Amanda , Halladay Brittany
Published: January 2024

Purpose:

This study aimed to explore students' learning outcomes as a result of participating in a simulated aphasia escape room related to (a) the development of aphasia assessment and treatment self-efficacy, (b) students' perceptions of the experience, and (c) overall student performance on escape room tasks.

Method:

Thirty-six first-year graduate students were guided through simulation procedures, including prelearning, prebrief, simulation, and debriefing for an educational
escape room
with puzzles related to aphasia knowledge and skills. Assessment measures for student outcomes included pre- and postsimulation self-efficacy surveys, a survey for instructor feedback, and clinical educator judgment of student completion of escape room tasks.

Results:

The students' self-efficacy ratings, pre- and postsimulation, were assessed using paired-samples
t
tests. In addition, central tendency and dispersion measures were computed for specific items assessing the students' perception of the simulation. Students demonstrated a statistically significant increase in self-efficacy across all targeted tasks. Student survey responses overall were favorable toward the simulated escape room experience and provided constructive feedback for design improvements.

Conclusions:

Escape room simulations have the pedagogical ability to expose students to low-stakes clinical tasks and require them to evaluate their own experiences within the clinical simulation. In addition, the gamified atmosphere of the escape room positively contributes to student learning. This work has implications for student teaching and training and the potential for carryover to clinical contexts to improve effective communication, assessment, and treatment skills for patients with aphasia in early career speech-language pathologists.
Hydrological Analysis of the Makassar-Pare Corridor Rail Elevated Bridge in Pangkep Regency South Sulawesi Province
Authors: Azis Abdul
Published: January 2024

Hydrological analysis is an important stage in the development of water resources. Determining hydrological quantities is actually not too difficult if the data for analysis purposes is available in sufficient quantity and quality. The method used for the analysis of the planned flood discharge depends on the amount of discharge data and rainfall data. Based on the analysis of discharge data and rain data. For planning the storage capacity of the river crossing the railway bridge, using the Nakayasu Synthetic Unit Hydrograph (HSS) Method, the river water level to the JEKA 2 structure is 13.38 m and the river water level to the tracks is 16.38 m so that the railroad tracks at Bridge 2 can be said to be safe against the river water level. Hydrological analysis is one part of a whole series in the planning of transportation structures such as roads, bridges and railway bridges including flood barrier embankments and so on.
Comparison Between Iterative Least Square and Nonparametric Epanechnikov Kernel in Semivariogram Modeling, Case study: Urban Land Cover in East Java Province
Authors: Sari Kurnia Novita , Budiman Yonathan Yeremy , Pasaribu Udjianna Sekteria , Sonhaji Abdullah
Published: January 2024

Landcover is an example of spatial data that contains location coordinate information along with the variables measured at each location, namely height, slope, and curvature. The spatial relationship between locations can be measured using a semivariogram. Semivariogram is a statistic used to measure the spatial correlation of pairs of locations separated by a certain distance and angle. In estimating semivariogram parameters, namely, nugget, sill, and range, there are two methods, namely parametric via iterative least squares and nonparametric via kernel functions. These two methods will be compared for semivariogram modeling of built-up land in East Java province. The best method is selected based on the smallest SSE value. For each physical factor, the best model with the smallest SSE is the Epanechnikov kernel function, with 3.6 for the elevation SSE, 8.84 ⋅ 10−7 for the slope SSE, and 2.15 ⋅ 10−21 for the curvature SSE. So, it is concluded in this case that the nonparametric kernel Epanechnikov method is much better than the parametric method using Gaussian and exponential models.
Semivariogram Modeling based on Provincial Clusters for Infectious Diseases and Mental Health in Indonesia
Authors: Sari Kurnia Novita , Utami Arli Magfirah , Pratama I. Gede Maha Hendra , Imran Rusniwati S.
Published: January 2024

Health is a valuable asset that profoundly impacts individuals and society as a whole, enhancing overall well-being and quality of life. Both internal and external factors, along with geographical location, play a crucial role in health. These factors exhibit spatial patterns that can be effectively analyzed through geostatistical methods, particularly semivariogram modeling. This study explores appropriate semivariogram models to depict disease distribution in Indonesian provinces using data from National Health Insurance Agency (NHIA). The provinces will be grouped into five clusters based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI), health claim amounts, the number of participants, and 23 disease groups through non-hierarchical cluster analysis. Three clusters, with the most provinces, will be selected for semivariogram modeling: exponential, Gaussian, and Spherical models. The best-fitting semivariogram models are anisotropic exponential for claim amounts and anisotropic Gaussian for CPI, number of participants, infectious diseases, and mental health issues. Meanwhile, the most suitable spherical model is identified for a specific cluster (Kalimantan and Nusa Tenggara regions). The results of this modeling can serve as recommendations for the inter-province radius of influence in disease prevention measures and the creation of a high-quality environment.
Research on Aerospace Software Quality Improvement Based on Software Test Data Analysis
Authors: Hu Yadi , Zhao Wei , Tao Jinlong , Feng Dacheng , Zheng Yiqian
Published: January 2024

This paper addresses the issue of underutilized software test data in current aerospace software quality management. Through analyzing the current third-party software evaluation process, the paper proposes to optimize software evaluation process and management to enhance software development quality and software test quality. The paper proposes an aerospace software quality improvement framework based on software test data analysis, which provides a reference scheme for aerospace software quality management. Overall, the paper emphasizes the importance of software test data analysis in improving aerospace software quality and provides a comprehensive solution for addressing problems identified in aerospace software quality management.
Hardware accelerators for processing clusters in binary vectors
Authors: Skliarova Iouliia , Skliarov Valeri
Published: January 2024

The paper suggests fast hardware accelerators for discovering clusters of zeros and/or ones in binary vectors. Any cluster is composed of successive bits with the same value (either 1 or 0). Search for such segments is required in many practical problems, for example, coding, data, and image processing. The proposed solutions enable, for a given vector, answering such questions as how many one/zero clusters can be found; what is the largest number of consecutive ones/zeros; what is the number of clusters having k consecutive ones/zeros; is the vector only composed of segments with exactly k consecutive ones/zeros; and some others. The relevant practical applications, for which acceleration is required, are also discussed. The paper suggests two core architectural solutions that are based on combinational and iterative networks of gates. Each network is modeled in software (C++ language) and then specified in a hardware-description language (VHDL), synthesized, and implemented in FPGA. Finally, the results of the circuits’ evaluations and comparisons are presented.
Modular irregularity strength of disjoint union of cycle-related graph
Authors: Barack Zeveliano Zidane , Sugeng Kiki Ariyanti
Published: January 2024

Let G = (V,E) be a graph with a vertex set V and an edge set E of G, with order n. Modular irregular labeling of a graph G is an edge k-labeling φ:E → {1, 2,…,k} such that the modular weight of all vertices is all different. The modular weight is defined by wtφ(u) = Σv∈N(u) φ(uv) (mod n). The minimum number k such that a graph G has modular irregular labeling with the largest label k is called modular irregularity strength of G. In this research, we determine the modular irregularity strength for a disjoint union of cycle graph, $ (mC_{n})=\frac{mn}{2}+1 $ for n ≡ 0 (mod 4), a disjoint union of sun graph, ms(m(Cn ⊙ K1))2 = ∞ for n and m even and ms(m(Cn ⊙ K1)) = mn otherwise, and a disjoint union of middle graph of cycle graph, ms(mM(Cn)) = ∞ for n and m both odd numbers and $(mM({C_n})) = {{mn} \over 2} + 1$ otherwise.
Weibull-Fréchet distribution: A new lifetime distribution with application to gastric cancer data
Authors: Chindranata Marko , Nurrohmah Siti , Fithriani Ida
Published: January 2024

Lifetime data is a type of data that consists of waiting time until an event occurs. Some of the events of lifetime data are deaths, occurrence of a disease, or failure of a machine. The distribution usually used for modeling lifetime data is the Weibull distribution. However, Weibull distribution has a limitation in its application: it can only model data with a monotonic hazard function. Therefore, a method for generalizing the Weibull distribution is needed so it can model data with a non-monotonic hazard function. One of those generalizations is the Weibull-Fréchet distribution (WFr) which was introduced by Afify in 2016. The WFr distribution has an advantage over the Weibull distribution, due to its capability in modeling data with unimodal hazard function. The method used in generating the WFr distribution is the Weibull-G (WG) that were introduced by Bourguignon in 2014. The WG method combines the distribution of a Weibull distribution with an arbitrary distribution with a cumulative distribution function (cdf) G(x) using a function W[G(x)]. The characteristics of WFr distribution discussed include probability density function (pdf), cumulative distribution function, survival function, hazard function, and the moment. The hazard function of WFr can be monotonic or unimodal. The maximum likelihood estimation method is used in estimating the parameters of the distribution. Finally, lifetime data of gastric cancer patients is given for illustration purposes. The data is modeled using the WFr distribution, and both the Weibull and Fréchet distribution for comparison. The model result shows that the WFr distribution is the best distribution for modeling the lifetime data of gastric cancer patients.
A preliminary study on linear perturbation for a non-minimal derivative coupling scalar-tensor theory
Authors: Prasetyo Ilham , Gunara Bobby Eka , Suroso Agus , Sulaksono Anto
Published: January 2024

The Cisterna-Delsate-Rinaldi (CDR) model is a variant of scalar-tensor theory that modify gravity by including a term of non-minimal derivative coupling. This model gives interesting aspects in the properties of compact objects, specifically neutron stars. By adjusting one of its parameters, the maximum possible mass of neutron stars can be increased. The authors of the model had also did a perturbation analysis using odd-parity perturbation and following that they also did analysis on the slowly-rotating neutron stars. In this paper, we report our ongoing research on the linear perturbation for the Cisterna model to see its dynamical properties. More precisely, we work on the polar perturbation that affected both the metric and the scalar field, which is different from the axial perturbation used in the slow rotation case. We use higher-dimensional spacetimes to see if the obtained equations will be dimensionally dependent. To simplify calculations for this metric form, we use tetrad method. Currently, we have not succeeded in obtaining the equations of motions in the form of Regge-Wheeler-Zerilli wave equation. The reason is the metric functions cannot be easily decoupled and we find no second derivatives with respect to both time t and radius r in the equations of motion. Only the scalar field can give a wave equation. Further investigation is undergoing.
Size and concentration effects of gold nanoparticles on the plasmonic sensing of Cr(VI)
Authors: Putri Kirana Yuniati , Kinanti Lindu Dwi , Yudasari Nurfina , Herbani Yuliati , Djuhana Dede
Published: January 2024

It is very important to determine the presence of toxic Cr(VI) in aqueous environment. Detection of Cr(VI) using AuNPs has been carried out based on the oxidation or etching principle, which results in the change of localized surface plasmon resonance. In this work, the effects of size and concentration of colloidal AuNPs on the Cr(VI) sensing characteristics were studied by both simulation and experiment. In the simulation study using MNPBEM toolbox, the etching process was described as shrinking of AuNPs with total volume loss reflecting the concentration of Cr(VI) as oxidizing ions. The experiment was carried out by exposing colloidal AuNPs with different size and concentration to Cr(VI). The AuNPs were obtained from laser-induced photochemical process, in which aqueous solution of Au ions were subjected to femtosecond laser irradiation. The simulation results showed wider blue-shift of λLSPR per total volume loss when larger AuNPs were employed and higher intercept value of extinction decrease per total volume loss when more AuNPs were present in the system. Correspondingly, the experiment demonstrated more distinct color change and wider λLSPR per Cr(VI) concentration when larger AuNPs were used. More concentrated colloid showed still-red color after Cr(VI) etching, representing higher intercept value of extinction decrease per Cr(VI). Both simulation and experiment results show that, in etching-based Cr(VI) sensing, large AuNPs displayed wider LSPR wavelength shift compared to the small nanoparticles. On the other hand, concentration of AuNPs contributes to the intensity change and higher concentration of AuNPs offers higher Cr(VI) sensing range. This result provided an insight on how colorimetric sensor performance might be affected by the choice of nanoparticle size and concentration used in the system.
Analyzing the influences of fabrication methods on the mechanical properties of Sumberejo kenaf/epoxy sandwich composites with polyurethane foam core
Authors: Zahrotin Ilva , Juwono Ariadne Laksmidevi , Siregar Januar Parlaungan , Roseno Seto , Rohman Saeful , Kalembang Eryanti , Wahyudin Wahyudin
Published: January 2024

Natural fiber composite sandwich structures have developed significantly to create building materials that are strong and lightweight. The purpose of this study is to compare the cold press and vacuum assisted resin infusion (VARI) methods to investigate the mechanical properties of sandwich composites made of Sumberejo kenaf fiber (KF) reinforced epoxy (EP) as the skin and polyurethane (PU) foam as the core. The kenaf fibers were alkalized by NaOH solution. The results show that manufacturing KF/EP-PU foam sandwich composites using cold press has flatwise tensile strengths that are around (0.220 ± 0.031) MPa higher than VARI, which is only about (0.170 ± 0.057) MPa. This implies that cold press creates an enhanced composite structure. The core shear strength of cold press sample was 17% higher than VARI, with a value of (0.603 ± 0.052) MPa and (0.499 ± 0.016) MPa, respectively. Also, the skin bending stress of cold press sample was (6.106 ± 1.203) MPa while VARI sample had a value of (5.405 ± 0.687) MPa. However, the VARI method exhibited higher flatwise compressive strength with a value (0.393 ± 0.004) MPa and cold press method was (0.331 ± 0.032) MPa. In conclusion, the manufacturing method substantially impacts the mechanical properties of KF/EP-PU foam sandwich composites in this study. This study is a valuable reference for natural fiber sandwich composites as a building material.
Analysis of external corrosion protection performance on buried gas pipeline using CIPS and DCVG methods
Authors: Dzakyprasetyo Reyan Qowi , Ferdian Deni
Published: January 2024

The present work investigates the effectiveness of external corrosion protection using Close Interval Potential Survey (CIPS) and Direct Current Voltage Gradient (DCVG) on a buried gas pipeline. These surveys were performed on 12” gas pipeline in East Kalimantan. Coating and cathodic protection were the primary corrosion protection on these pipelines. Soil resistivity measurement was conducted every km along the pipeline to obtain the resistivity profile combined with the pH profile. CIPS showed that the Cathodic Protection system protects 79.21 % of the pipeline area. There is no sign of telluric or stray current effect from the result of CIPS. DCVG showed 159 defects that can be divided into three different clusters. There is 6-point coating defects that should be repaired immediately due to the characteristics and category of the defect. The integrated data analysis of CIPS and DCVG showed a correlation which dips pattern on CIPS graph indicating coating defect on DCVG surveyed. Soil resistivity measurement showed that the soil resistivity profile is negligible from KP 0 – 5, while KP 5 – 14 is mildly corrosive. pH measurement showed the acidity level or the soil along the pipeline were neutral. Cathodic protection level could be improved with the increase of cathodic protection current and coating repair along the area with low-level protection.
Room temperature properties of microstructure and resistivity of alkaline earth – doped on lanthanide manganite
Authors: Nanto Dwi , Adella Desty , Tjahjono Arif , Saptari Sitti Ahmiatri , Budiawanti Sri , Imaduddin Agung
Published: January 2024

Microstructure of material has a strong relation with resistivity property. Here we report our interesting sample of La0.7(Sr1-xBax)0.3MnO3 (x = 0, 0.3, 0.6, and 0.9) material that has been synthesized by using sol-gel method successfully. All pattern of X-ray diffractometer (XRD) on the successful samples show that all samples are single phase confirmed without significant crystal disorder. The XRD pattern refinement yield that all samples formed R-3c space group with a rhombohedral structure. Although the substitution of Ba2+ to Sr2+ ions have significant difference in atomic radius; it does not change the crystal structure. However, the alkaline earth – doped on lanthanide manganite causes a change in lattice parameters which is followed by shifted of average crystal size, bond length, cell unit volume and bond angle at Mn-O-Mn. The microstructure results by means of scanning electron microscope (SEM) characterization shows that substitution of Ba2+ ions decrease the grain size and yield agglomeration. The relation on the microscopic result resistively confirmed by cryogenic magnetometer characterization in the concentration x = 0 has minimum resistivity of 1.28.10-3 Ωm and the maximum resistivity in the concentration x = 0.9 is 1.85.10-1 Ωm. The Ba2+ doped into Sr2+ in lanthanum manganite may cause a wider resistivity range.
Improved modelling of SEP event onset within the WSA–Enlil–SEPMOD framework
Authors: Palmerio Erika , Luhmann Janet G. , Mays M. Leila , Caplan Ronald M. , Lario David , Richardson Ian G. , Whitman Kathryn , Lee Christina O. , Sánchez-Cano Beatriz , Wijsen Nicolas , Li Yan , Cardoso Carlota , Pinto Marco , Heyner Daniel , Schmid Daniel , Auster Hans-Ulrich , Fischer David
Published: January 2024

Multi-spacecraft observations of solar energetic particle (SEP) events not only enable a deeper understanding and development of particle acceleration and transport theories but also provide important constraints for model validation efforts. However, because of computational limitations, a given physics-based SEP model is usually best suited to capture a particular phase of an SEP event, rather than its whole development from onset through decay. For example, magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) models of the heliosphere often incorporate solar transients only at the outer boundary of their so-called coronal domain – usually set at a heliocentric distance of 20–30 R⊙. This means that particle acceleration at coronal mass ejection (CME)-driven shocks is also computed from this boundary onwards, leading to simulated SEP event onsets that can be many hours later than observed, since shock waves can form much lower in the solar corona. In this work, we aim to improve the modelled onset of SEP events by inserting a “fixed source” of particle injection at the outer boundary of the coronal domain of the coupled WSA–Enlil 3D MHD model of the heliosphere. The SEP model that we employ for this effort is Solar Energetic Particle MODel (SEPMOD), a physics-based test-particle code based on a field line tracer and adiabatic invariant conservation. We apply our initial tests and results of SEPMOD’s fixed-source option to the 2021 October 9 SEP event, which was detected at five well-separated locations in the inner heliosphere – Parker Solar Probe, STEREO-A, Solar Orbiter, BepiColombo, and near-Earth spacecraft.
Social media construction of sexual deviance in Hong Kong: a case study of a Facebook discussion
Authors: Sham Priscilla , Man Pui Kwan , Emery Clifton Robert
Published: January 2024

This study explores how social media constructs sexual deviance and violence against women. Based on vigorous debates on Facebook about the cheating of case two Hong Kong celebrities, we analyzed how cheating and promiscuity are constructed as sexual deviance on social media in Hong Kong through a politics of claims-making. Research has demonstrated how promiscuity and cheating are facilitated through the Internet. It has yet to show how social media sustains compulsory monogamy and constructs promiscuity and cheating as deviance to induce violence against women. Our study contributes to understanding how CM is sustained and how it constructs sexual deviance in scoial media. We discovered that discussing taboo sexual practices through Facebook involves mainly punitive informal social control and only strengthens the stigmatization of them, regulating gender and sexual morality, sustaining compulsory monogamy, and oppressing women and practitioners of marginalized sexual behaviors. We call for updated measures on social media outlets like Facebook to regulate cyber violence and encourage civilized discussions on taboo sexual topics.
Sustainable pathways for attaining net zero emissions in selected South Asian countries: role of green energy market and pricing
Authors: Tiwari Sunil , Bashir Sana , Sarker Tapan , Shahzad Umer
Published: January 2024

Due to the ongoing challenges posed by climate change and environmental degradation, developing nations are pursuing initiatives to mitigate carbon emissions at net zero and achieve sustainability objectives. To attain these objectives, it is necessary to shift from conventional energy sources to green energy sources. This research paper examines the dynamic role of the green energy market and green energy pricing in sustainable pathways for attaining net-zero emissions in South Asian countries including India, Malaysia, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. The study utilizes the dynamic Autoregressive Distributed Lag simulations (DARDLS) technique and panel data spanning from 1990 to 2018. The findings reveal a positive correlation between the green energy market and sustainable development in the short run, with reverse effects in the long run. Furthermore, there is an inverse relationship between green energy prices, net-zero emissions, and sustainable development emissions in the short run, which strengthens over time. Based on the results, the study suggests that South Asia is a region that is especially susceptible to the impacts of climate change. Therefore, the governments of these countries should consider implementing favourable policies to support sustainable development, including providing financial assistance, offering subsidies for green energy technology, reducing tariffs, and establishing strong sustainability frameworks and government regulations.
The contribution of inhabitants to the development of public spaces in eastern Algeria, Constantine
Authors: Bouadam Roukia , Chetbi Wail
Published: January 2024

The creation of public spaces in response to the extensive construction of new urban residential areas is a subject of discussion within the international community. Algeria suffers from degraded areas and a lack of clarity regarding the ownership and use of these zones. To address this issue, the State has launched urban improvement projects. In some cases, the residents are the ones who initiate these improvements. However, it has been observed that many of these improvements either do not last or are purposefully rejected by residents. This situation raises several concerns: Why are residents opposed to these improvements? Why are the improvements initiated and funded by residents deteriorating as well? This study examines the strategies used to implement urban improvements in Ain Smara (Constantine). It also assesses the population’s impact on the success or failure of these initiatives. As a research hypothesis, it appears that the main causes of this situation are a lack of involvement of residents in the early stages of the project (lack of information, shared diagnosis) and supervision. The goal is to emphasise the importance of residents’ roles and to try to identify some mechanisms for effectively involving them. The method employed is a hybrid approach, with on-site surveys and observations serving as the primary data collection tools. The study’s findings emphasise that a lack of information and a lack of resident involvement are factors that contribute to the unsustainable nature of development initiatives. The success of such projects depends on the efforts of all stakeholders, and residents must be kept as informed and involved as possible before and after the project is launched. An examination of local participation experiences allows us to identify mechanisms tailored to the Algerian context that can aid in the effective implementation of true participation.
Light management for ever-thinner photovoltaics: A tutorial review
Authors: Camarillo Abad Eduardo , Joyce Hannah J. , Hirst Louise C.
Published: January 2024

Ultra-thin solar cells, an order of magnitude thinner than conventional technologies, are an emerging device concept that enables low-cost, flexible, lightweight, and defect-tolerant photovoltaics. However, the advent of ultra-thin technologies is hindered by the fundamental challenge of poor light harvesting in thinnest absorber layers, which entails prohibitive photocurrent and efficiency penalties. Here, from a tutorial perspective, we review different light-management platforms that can overcome this inherent limitation, namely, antireflection coatings, rear mirrors, and light-trapping textures. We then review the state-of-the-art performances that have been achieved with these strategies and that have led to records of ∼20% efficiency in ∼200 nm absorbers. Finally, we identify persisting challenges and potential development avenues for attaining competitive performance with ever-thinner photovoltaic devices.
The cultural, linguistic and cognitive relativity of time
concepts
Authors: Widlok Thomas
Published: January 2024

There has been a considerable boost in studies on the
cognitive foundations of language, including the fields of space, time, and
causality. While Africa has increasingly been included in these studies, the
attention to cognitive constraints has sometimes overlooked possible
diversity as captured by anthropological linguistics. The study of cultural
relativity with regard to time concepts which flourished initially in
anthropology and linguistics has been overshadowed by research in economics
and neighboring disciplines. Linguistic distinctions such as that between
weak FTR (Future Time Reference) and strong FTR languages become associated
with cultural differences such as saving for the future. This contribution
looks critically at these typologies and argues that research would benefit
from closer cooperation between comparative and intrinsic approaches to the
study of African languages.
“They look hostile from afar”
Authors: Knipping Jan
Published: January 2024

This contribution analyzes “small stories” with a focus
on language ideologies to shed light on underlying beliefs about how
“Northernness” is constructed and negotiated as a persistently significant
identity category in contemporary Ugandan discourses. While the ideologies
revolving around Northernness mainly reflect colonially established
attributions, the article introduces colorism as a further ideological base,
alongside purported ethnic and linguistic criteria fostering the
marginalization of “Northerners” or those perceived as such. Individuals
either strategically employ these ideologies or find them ascribed to them,
often resulting from negotiations of Otherness and Sameness from multiple
and situated social positions. Furthermore, the paper presents a case in
point to show how a focus on language ideologies can link small-scale
utterances or narrations with socio-political and historical contexts on a
larger scale. Finally, it also reflects on the role linguists’ ideologies
have played and continue to play in the production of knowledge in
(post)colonial African contexts.
“Show your feelings!”
Authors: Seel Laura , Nassenstein Nico
Published: January 2024

This contribution analyzes the encoding of emotions in
Chiraphai (Rabai), a Midzichenda language from the Kenyan coast. In the
focus, especially, are matters of a rather discrete display of one’s
feelings vs. open invitations to “show what you feel”, discussing core
emotions in the language and also including concepts of feeling shame
(kona haya) or witnessing shameful behavior. Herein,
the authors specifically investigate body part metaphors that play a role in
the expression of emotional language; they include an analysis of color
terms that incorporate a specific emotional connotation. Finally,
grammatical means of encoding emotions are taken into consideration in this
first anthropological linguistic analysis of the language.
Wh-island Effects in Chinese
Authors: Chen Xu
Published: January 2024

This book examines three controversial generalizations concerning wh-island effects in Chinese: argument and adjunct asymmetry, subject and object asymmetry, and D-linked and non-D-linked asymmetry. Experiments under the factorial definition of island effects reveal that: (1) both argument and adjunct wh-in-situ are sensitive to the wh-island, displaying no asymmetry; (2) subject wh-in-situ manifests a larger magnitude of island effects, whereas object wh-in-situ shows a smaller size due to the confounding of double name penalty, exhibiting a special pattern of asymmetry; (3) D-linked and non-D-linked who-in-situ evince no asymmetry, while D-linked and non-D-linked what-in-situ demonstrate a marginal asymmetry. Findings support the theory of covert wh-movement on the interpretation of Chinese wh-in-situ. The pattern of wh-island effects can be attributed to the violation of locality principles during wh-feature movement. This book is primarily tailored for researchers interested in the study of Chinese wh-questions and generative linguistics in the broad sense.
Forme e funzioni delle virgolette negli atti di parte
Authors: Lombardi Giulia
Published: January 2024

During the collection and anonymisation of the party proceedings that are part of the PRIN project “Atti Chiari”
database, an exploratory and qualitative analysis of the texts revealed a widespread and transversal use of the quotation marks
(“ ”), in association – or as an alternative – to the use of italics. It has been possible to verify that, in
addition to the typical uses of the standard language, the introduction of inverted commas and italics in the party proceedings
responds to the lawyers’ need to include in the text basic vocabulary that in the standard language would not need any
modalisation strategy. This seems to show the authors’ reserve in introducing very common words in the texts as if they were not
entirely appropriate; however, if italics and inverted commas are used to justify a communicative choice that has clearly not yet
become standard, they are also evidence of a significant opening towards the drafting of clearer documents.
Inkjet-printed thin-film transistors using surfactant-based transition-metal dichalcogenide nanocomposites suspended in polymeric semiconductors
Authors: Choi Hyunwoo , Park Wontae , Lee Yebin , Tam Kam C , Wong William S
Published: January 2024

Ink formulations containing a suspension of single-crystalline molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) nanosheets suspended in the polymeric semiconductor poly(3-hexylthiophene-2,5-diyl) (P3HT) were inkjet printed for the fabrication of thin-film transistors (TFT). The MoS2 nanosheets were treated with the surfactant trichloro(dodecyl)silane (DDTS) to functionalize the MoS2 surface and created a more stable suspension, reducing the agglomeration of MoS2 suspended in the P3HT solution. This ink formulation was inkjet printed onto the surface of thermal oxide coated, p+-Si wafers to form common-gate TFT device structures. The printed semiconductor formed the active region of a hybrid MoS2 suspension in P3HT of the TFTs. The field-effect mobility for the hybrid-ink TFTs was found to be three times (3×) higher compared to reference devices using pristine P3HT without the suspension. The functionalized MoS2 suspension was also found to form thinner nanosheet suspensions within the P3HT matrix that resulted in approximately 60% higher field-effect mobility compared to hybrid inks without the surfactant. The enhancement of the electrical properties of the TFTs was determined to be due to a structural change in the thin-film semiconductor. The observed current–voltage (I–V) changes were correlated to measurable structural alterations in the semiconductor thin film characterized by x-ray diffraction, atomic force microscopy, and UV–visible absorption spectroscopy.
On maximum left/right reflectance asymmetry exhibited by a gyrotropic dielectric slab
Authors: Mackay Tom G , Lakhtakia Akhlesh
Published: January 2024

Gyrotropic dielectric materials, being Lorentz non-reciprocal, exhibit scientifically and technologically interesting reflection asymmetries. On numerically characterizing left/right asymmetries in linear reflectances exhibited by a gyrotropic dielectric slab, we found these asymmetries to be highly sensitive to: (i) the constitutive parameters of the gyrotropic dielectric material, (ii) the thickness of the slab, (iii) the direction of incidence, and (iv) the refractive indexes of the isotropic dielectric materials above and below the slab. In particular, left/right reflectance asymmetries increase as (i) dissipation in the gyrotropic dielectric material decreases and (ii) the anti-symmetric component of the relative permittivity dyadic of that material increases. Generally, the cross-polarized left/right reflectance asymmetry is an order of magnitude smaller than the co-polarized left/right reflectance asymmetries.
Fourier transformation based analysis routine for intermixed longitudinal and transversal hysteretic data for the example of a magnetic topological insulator
Authors: Zimmermann Erik , Schleenvoigt Michael , Rupp Alina , Behner Gerrit , Karthein Jan , Teller Justus , Schüffelgen Peter , Lüth Hans , Grützmacher Detlev , Schäpers Thomas
Published: January 2024

We present a symmetrization routine that optimizes and eases the analysis of imperfect, experimental data featuring the anomalous Hall hysteresis. This technique can be transferred to any hysteresis with (point-)symmetric behavior. The implementation of the method is demonstrated exemplarily using intermixed longitudinal and transversal data obtained from a chromium-doped ternary topological insulator revealing a clear hysteresis. Furthermore, by introducing a mathematical description of the anomalous Hall hysteresis based on the error function precise values of the height and coercive field are determined.
Laboratory evaluation of a complex treatment technology for reducing water absorption of the pavement subbase aggregate from the blast-furnace slag
Authors: Kunaev Vyacheslav , Tavshanov Ilgar , Asanov Rakhymzhan
Published: January 2024

When smelting each ton of pig iron, approximately 500 kg of blast-furnace slag is formed and requires recycling. Air-cooled blast-furnace slag can be used for the manufacture of slag aggregate for the pavement subbase layers, as an alternative to natural stone aggregate. The wide use of slag in this area is limited by its high water absorption. This paper proposes a complex technology to reduce water absorption of slag aggregate. This technology includes selective crushing, which allows separating low-porosity aggregate grains from high-porosity ones, and impregnation of selected low-porosity grains with hydrophobic agent (surface hydrophobization). The results of a laboratory evaluation of this technology effectiveness are presented. Article also contains optimal parameters of this complex technological process which allowed to reduce the water absorption of the slag aggregate from 4.54% to 1.05%.
Comparison of 4 mortality scores for surgical repair of type A aortic dissection: a multicentre external validation
Authors: Pollari Francesco , Nardi Paolo , Mikus Elisa , Ferraro Francesco , Gemelli Marco , Franzese Ilaria , Chirichilli Ilaria , Romagnoni Claudia , Santarpino Giuseppe , Nicolardi Salvatore , Scrofani Roberto , Musumeci Francesco , Mazzaro Enzo , Gerosa Gino , Massetti Massimo , Savini Carlo , Ruvolo Giovanni , Di Mauro Michele , Di Marco Luca , Barili Fabio , Parolari Alessandro , Fischlein Theodor ,   GIROC (Italian Research Group on Outcome in Cardiac Surgery), Pollari Francesco , Di Marco Luca , Franzese Ilaria , Trumello Cinzia , Nicolò Francesca , Sponga Sandro , Cuomo Michela , Salsano Antonio , Lechiancole Andrea , Russo Marco , Rosato Francesco
Published: January 2024

OBJECTIVES

In the last decades, 4 different scores for the prediction of mortality following surgery for type A acute aortic dissection (TAAD) were proposed. We aimed to validate these scores in a large external multicentre cohort.

METHODS

We retrospectively analysed patients who underwent surgery for TAAD between 2000 and 2020. Patients were enrolled from 10 centres from 2 European countries. Outcomes were the early (30-day and/or in-hospital) and 1-year mortality. Discrimination, calibration and observed/expected (O/E) ratio were evaluated.

RESULTS

A total of 1895 patients (31.7% females, mean age 63.72 ± 12.8 years) were included in the study. Thirty-day mortality and in-hospital mortality were 21.7% (n = 412) and 22.5% (n = 427) respectively. The German Registry of Acute Aortic Dissection Type A (GERAADA) score shows to have the best discrimination [area under the curve (AUC) 0.671 and 0.672] in predicting as well the early and the 1-year mortality, followed by the International Registry of Acute Aortic Dissection (IRAD) model 1 (AUC 0.658 and 0.672), the Centofanti (AUC 0.645 and 0.66) and the UK aortic score (AUC 0.549 and 0.563). According to Hosmer–Lemeshow and Brier tests, the IRAD model I and GERAADA, respectively, were well calibrated for the early mortality, while the GERAADA and Centofanti for the 1-year mortality. The O/E analysis showed a marked underestimation for patients labelled as low-risk for UK aortic score and IRAD model I for both outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

The GERAADA score showed the best performance in comparison with other scores. However, none of them achieved together a fair discrimination and a good calibration for predicting either the early or the 1-year mortality.
Exploring polymorphism in a palatable prey: predation risk and frequency dependence in relation to distinct levels of conspicuousness
Authors: Poloni Riccardo , Dhennin Marina , Mappes Johanna , Joron Mathieu , Nokelainen Ossi
Published: January 2024

Camouflage and warning signals are different antipredator strategies, which offer an excellent opportunity to study the evolutionary forces acting on prey appearance. Edible prey often escape detection via camouflage, which usually leads to apostatic selection favoring rare morphs. By contrast, defended prey often display conspicuous coloration acting as warning signals to predators, which usually leads to positive frequency dependence and signal uniformity. However, when two morphs of the same species vary greatly in conspicuousness, the maintenance of both cryptic and conspicuous forms in profitable prey populations remains enigmatic. Using the white and melanic morphs of the invasive box tree moth (Cydalima perspectalis) presented at three different frequencies, we investigate (a) the palatability of caterpillars and adult moths to birds, (b) predation rates on the less conspicuous melanic morph, and (c) the role of frequency dependence in balancing morph frequencies. Our results show that caterpillars are distasteful for birds but not adult moths that are fully palatable. We found that the less conspicuous, melanic morph, benefits from reduced predation due to its lower detectability. The more conspicuous, white morph, instead, is more predated and is best off when common, suggesting positive frequency dependence. These results offer new insights into the evolution of color polymorphism and prey defenses in a polymorphic moth species. Further investigation is required to understand the role of different predation regimes on the maintenance of the polymorphism in this species and test whether additional selection pressures operate in natural populations.
High sexual display trait diversity without measured genetic divergence in a montane hybrid zone involving young species (Habronattus americanus subgroup, Araneae: Salticidae)
Authors: Bougie Tierney , Brelsford Alan , Hedin Marshal
Published: January 2024

Genetic introgression, allele exchange across species boundaries, is a commonly recognized feature of animal evolution. Under such a paradigm, contemporary contact zones provide first-hand insight into the geographic, phenotypic, and genetic details of introgression. Also, when mate choice phenotypes are conspicuous and variable in hybrids, contact zones provide potential insight into how sexual selection interacts with species boundary maintenance, particularly when postzygotic reproductive isolation is weak. The Habronattus americanus subgroup includes several recently evolved jumping spider species, with an estimated age of about 200,000 yr, and substantial evidence for hybridization and introgression. We explored a contact zone involving H. americanus (Keyserling, 1885) and H. kubai (Griswold, 1979) on Mount Shasta, CA, in alpine habitats that would have been unavailable (under ice) at the Last Glacial Maximum. We characterized morphological diversity within the contact zone, including the fine-scale geographic distribution of hybrid and parental individuals, and assessed genetic variation using ddRADseq data. Combined results indicate a lack of measured genomic differentiation between specimens with distinct morphologies, including individuals with phenotypes of the parental species. We identified a diverse array of hybrid morphologies, with phenotypic evidence for backcrossing, essentially forming a phenotypic bridge between parental taxa. The study area is characterized by more hybrid than parental individuals, with a significantly larger number of red-palped morphologies than white- and/or yellow-palped morphologies; the novel, white-palped phenotype is perhaps transgressive. Overall, these results contribute to a better understanding of the expected ebb and flow of lineage interactions during the early stages of speciation.