bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spot position scheme on a quadrant detector for a spaceborne laser communication system
Authors: Wei Jia , Zhu Huishi , Wang Yuehui , Sun Ning , Liu Fengrui , Zhang Jing , Chen Yu , Liu Jianguo
Published: March 2024

The paper proposes a spot positioning method based on a four-quadrant detector for the limited computing power and memory of spaceborne laser communication, in which the adaptive interpolation segmentation (AIS) algorithm is used to fit the theoretical position curve. The algorithm uses linear operations though the fitting process and the simulated result indicates that it has higher positioning accuracy in the center area of the quadrant detector. A spot receiving and positioning system was built for experimentation and the final location of the spot was calculated. The positioning error is analyzed to evaluate the performance of the whole system. It is shown that the positioning accuracy is highest in the stable communication area of the system. In result, the scheme achieves high accuracy with simple operations, which is more suitable for spaceborne laser communication systems to release more performance for communication.
Demonstration on the performance enhancement of the 1.645  µm coherent Doppler lidar for long-range wind measurements with modification of laser transmitter and optical antenna
Authors: Zhang Xu , Wang Kaixin , Lin Zhifeng , Yu Yang , Wang Qing , Gao Chunqing
Published: March 2024

We have developed and experimentally investigated a long-range 1.645 µm coherent Doppler wind lidar (CDWL) system. A compact 1.645 µm single-frequency Er:YAG laser is utilized as the laser transmitter. The impact of laser transmitter parameters on wind detection was assessed using the figure of merit (FOM) concept. To enhance the measurement efficiency, the influence of wave aberrations on the heterodyne efficiency was analyzed. A Galilean telescope with an optical aperture of 100 mm is designed as the optical antenna based on the analysis. The line of sight (LOS) detection range exceeds 30.42 km with a data rate of 1 Hz at an elevation angle of 3.5°. To evaluate the effectiveness of the CDWL, comparison experiments were conducted between the 1.645 µm CDWL and a calibrated 1.55 µm CDWL, revealing a correlation coefficient of 0.9816 for the whole detection path in the wind velocity measurement.
Development of adaptive filtering for nanosatellite electron-optical device based on the «Synergy» platform for researching the North-West region of Russia
Authors: Malygin Dennis , Redka Dmitrii , Dmitrii Shirshov , Egor Kostikov
Published: March 2024

This paper provides an overview of the basic methods for filtering images. The main sources of the noise component in the image, which should be shooted by camera based on nanosatellite, the criteria for assessing the quality of filtering and the main digital filters for image recovery are given. The comparative characteristics are presented.
Local social-ecological context explains seasonal rural-rural migration of the poorest in south-west Bangladesh
Authors: Clech Lucie , Sierra Juan Pablo , Mannan Muhammad Abdul , Kabir Mollah M. Shamsul , Barua Mrittika , Espinoza Jhan-Carlo , Ridde Valery
Published: March 2024

Bangladesh is one of the countries most affected by climate change. Internal migration is often presented as a response to environmental degradation. Here, using a people-centred perspective, we explore the complexity of the links between climate-induced change, environmental degradation caused by waterlogging and seasonal rural migration. We used an inductive qualitative approach in social sciences, conducting fourteen semi-directed interviews and six focus group discussions in March-April 2022. We related those results to a rainfall analysis on CHIRPS data for 1981-2021and we represented interactions and feedback between changes and livelihoods in a model. A complex picture of the situation is emerging, showing the interweaving effects of non-climatic and climatic changes, their interplay at different scales, their cumulative effects, the interactions between livelihood types and feedback between social and natural systems. Most of the climate-induced changes gradually become noticeable over the past 25 years. Climate data confirm these changes in recent decades, with July being wetter and January being dryer. Villagers reported waterlogging as the most significant change in their community, pointing to its multiple causes, originating in non-local and local, non-climatic anthropic changes, exacerbated by shrimp farm enclosures and worsened by climate-induced changes such as heavier rains, wetter monsoons and cyclones. Tiger prawn farms, reported as a lucrative and local adaptation to waterlogging and salinisation for the ones who can afford it, worsen the situation for the less wealthy, causing waterlogging and salinisation of the adjacent agricultural lands and buildings, the disappearance of traditional fishing and a reduction of the local job market. In addition, erratic rain patterns, droughts and cyclones affect local production and labour markets. COVID-19 lockdowns, by impacting markets and mobilities, further aggravated the situation. Inequality has increased as the range of adaptations of the less wealthy appears limited in this context of multiple crises.
Clinical gait analysis using video-based pose estimation: Multiple perspectives, clinical populations, and measuring change
Authors: Stenum Jan , Hsu Melody M. , Pantelyat Alexander Y. , Roemmich Ryan T.
Published: March 2024

Gait dysfunction is common in many clinical populations and often has a profound and deleterious impact on independence and quality of life. Gait analysis is a foundational component of rehabilitation because it is critical to identify and understand the specific deficits that should be targeted prior to the initiation of treatment. Unfortunately, current state-of-the-art approaches to gait analysis (e.g., marker-based motion capture systems, instrumented gait mats) are largely inaccessible due to prohibitive costs of time, money, and effort required to perform the assessments. Here, we demonstrate the ability to perform quantitative gait analyses in multiple clinical populations using only simple videos recorded using low-cost devices (tablets). We report four primary advances: 1) a novel, versatile workflow that leverages an open-source human pose estimation algorithm (OpenPose) to perform gait analyses using videos recorded from multiple different perspectives (e.g., frontal, sagittal), 2) validation of this workflow in three different populations of participants (adults without gait impairment, persons post-stroke, and persons with Parkinson’s disease) via comparison to ground-truth three-dimensional motion capture, 3) demonstration of the ability to capture clinically relevant, condition-specific gait parameters, and 4) tracking of within-participant changes in gait, as is required to measure progress in rehabilitation and recovery. Importantly, our workflow has been made freely available and does not require prior gait analysis expertise. The ability to perform quantitative gait analyses in nearly any setting using only low-cost devices and computer vision offers significant potential for dramatic improvement in the accessibility of clinical gait analysis across different patient populations.
Soil fungal communities varied across aspects of restored grassland in former mining areas of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau
Authors: Li Xiaoqing , Li Qiang , Duan Yinzhu , Sun Haiqun , Chu Hui , Jia Shunbin , Chen Hongjie , Tang Wenxi
Published: March 2024

To determine whether different aspects lead to a heterogeneous distribution of soil fungi, we investigated artificially established alpine grasslands in the Muli mining area in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Employing high-throughput sequencing techniques, we analyzed the composition, diversity, and function of soil fungal communities across various aspects (flat, East-facing, South-facing, West-facing, North-facing). We also examined their relationships with environmental factors. Soil fungal communities of restored alpine grasslands differed significantly across aspects in terms of the dominant phyla, classes and species level. Compared with No aspect, the Shannon index of fungi respectively decreased by 2.99%, 19.32%, 19.37% and 10.56% for East aspect, South aspect, West aspect and North aspect, respectively, and the Chao1 index of fungi respectively decreased by-2.44%, 35.50%, 42.15% and 3.21%, respectively. A total of 22 different types of fungi were identified in the study area. Predictive analysis, based on PICRUSt2, indicated that the primary functions of the fungal communities across different aspects were aerobic respiration I (cytochrome c) and aerobic respiration II (cytochrome c). Among the environmental variables, total phosphorus (P) and total nitrogen (N) were the principal factors influencing the fungal community composition.In conclusion, aspect plays a significant role in shaping the composition of fungal communities and also affects their overall diversity.
Steatotic liver disease and its newly proposed sub-classifications correlate with progression of the coronary artery calcium score
Authors: Kim Aryoung , Kang Danbee , Choi Sung Chul , Cho Juhee , Sinn Dong Hyun , Gwak Geum-Youn
Published: March 2024

Background & aims

A new nomenclature, Steatotic Liver Disease (SLD), has been proposed by consensus with sub-classifications and requires evidence-based validation. We assessed whether the presence and severity of SLD, as well as its sub-classifications, are associated with the progression of coronary atherosclerosis.

Methods

This longitudinal cohort study included 13,811 adults who participated in repeated regular health screening examinations between January 1, 2004 and December 31, 2021 that included assessments of their coronary artery calcium (CAC) scores. SLD was defined using abdominal ultrasonography and classified as metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), MASLD with increased alcohol intake (MetALD), and cryptogenic SLD. SLD severity was assessed using fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) scores. The progression of CAC scores was measured using multidetector CT scans.

Results

The average duration of follow-up was 5.8 years. During follow-up, the annual rate of CAC progression in participants with and without SLD was 18% (95% CI 17%–19%) and 14% (95% CI 13%–14%) (p < 0.01), respectively. The multivariable ratios of progression rates when we compared participants with cryptogenic SLD, MASLD, or MetALD with those without SLD were 0.98 (95% CI 0.95–1.01), 1.03 (95% CI 1.03–1.04), and 1.07 (95% CI 1.04–1.09), respectively. The multivariable ratios of progression rates when we compared participants with SLD with FIB-4 score <1.3 and SLD with FIB-4 score ≥1.3 with those without SLD were 1.03 (95% CI 1.02–1.04), and 1.05 (95% CI 1.04–1.06), respectively.

Conclusions

SLD was associated with a higher risk of coronary atherosclerosis, and the risk differed by sub-classifications and severity. These findings suggest that the newly proposed definition has clinical relevance in terms of stratifying cardiovascular disease risk.
Realist production designs of class and gender in flux in Play for Today’s house party quartet (BBC1, 1975–78)
Authors: May Tom
Published: March 2024

Play for Today (PfT) (1970–84) was regarded as the BBC’s flagship strand of single television plays, largely set in contemporary Britain in geographically diverse settings. This article analyses four PfTs from 1975 to 1978 centred on house parties for their representations of class, taste and gender: The Saturday Party (1975), Tiptoe through the Tulips (1976), Abigail’s Party (1977) and Scully’s New Year’s Eve (1978). The article examines the creative input of writers, actors and the overlooked labour of production designers who created these plays’ human spaces within the BBC’s studios. Aspects of set dressing that are analysed include wallpaper, curtains, furniture, reproductions of artworks and props. Analysis is informed by an interview with Moira Tait, a BBC production designer. BBC designers created vividly realistic impressions of contemporary life, which represented structures of feeling in the changing Britain of 1975–78, where increasing home ownership, pleasure and women’s desire for autonomy were pivotal trends.
From quarantine to in-person modality: Effects of the pandemic on music technology education and possible solutions for the loss of social interactivity
Authors: Songmuang Parichat
Published: March 2024

During the pandemic, educators in the music technology field faced challenges. One of these challenges is the loss of social interactivity. As classes return to in-person modality, effects of this loss are still greatly present within the classroom. This article observes possible solutions that educators may utilize to bring back social interactivity within the classrooms with the addition of incorporating technologies to create a crossfade between remote and in-person learning.
The disconnected keyboard: Inclusive learning and musicking practice with modular synthesis
Authors: Thumlert Kurt , Nolan Jason , Sunandan Honisch Stefan
Published: March 2024

Since the 1960s, electronic sound synthesis and the keyboard interface have been so closely associated that many young musicians have come to see them as inseparable components, if not interchangeable terms. In this article, we ‘disconnect the keyboard’ and explore an alternative history of electronic sound synthesis – modular synthesis – that has remained largely overshadowed by keyboard-based synthesizers since the Minimoog. Researchers in music education signal that Eurocentric aesthetic norms, ableist performance ideals and exclusionary practices are interwoven in keyboard technologies, creating barriers that extend into popular music education. Drawing upon critical discussions in music education and science and technology studies (STS), we examine the underexplored opportunities of using modular synthesizers for music learning. We examine how modular synthesis, liberated from the keyboard-controller, serves as a basis for exploring an alternative model for sound-based inquiry and for rethinking the possibilities of instrument design and ways of musiking that are more inclusive.
Derry Girls (2018–22), UK: Hat Trick Productions
Authors: Arora Ekshita
Published: March 2024

Review of: Derry Girls (2018–22), UK: Hat Trick Productions
Standardized Telemedicine Software Development Kit with Hybrid Cloud Support
Authors: Jánki Zoltán Richárd , Bilicki Vilmos
Published: March 2024

In modern Web development, it is expected that systems operating in the same area can be easily integrated. For common integration points, it is recommended to use a standardized data model and a common interface during the development as this will facilitate further integrations. The use of the cloud infrastructure is increasingly popular in telemedicine, but taking into account the goals, the productivity of the development, the availability of the system and the various regulations, choosing the right solution is not trivial. Inclouded platform consists of numerous currently active telemedical microservices that are working with a common software development kit. This tool provides a standardized data model for document-oriented database systems, has support for public and private clouds by using the classic Data Access Object (DAO) analogy and contains a lot of convenient functions as well. Furthermore, it is found that our solutions can significantly increase development productivity and is confirmed by measurements taken which involved software developers.
The poverty of embodiment in the work of Juhani Pallasmaa
Authors: Griffiths Sean
Published: March 2024

In books such as The Eyes of the Skin, architectural theorist Juhani Pallasmaa posits unmediated sensual encounters as the site of authentic engagement with the built environment. Such ideas are prevalent in mainstream architectural discourse today. In this article, I show that they are also highly problematic. Pallasmaa rejects visual intentionality, construing it as the instrument of an objectifying reason that distances us from our ‘being-in-the-world’. Referring to the phenomenologist philosophies of Martin Heidegger and Maurice Merleau-Ponty, and indebted to Henri Bergson’s concept of duration through lived experience, Pallasmaa’s theory promises a poetic inhabitation of the world, irreducible to reason and characterised by an animistic embodiment, allegedly offering a more meaningful architectural experience. Informed by contemporary rationalist thought and drawing on neuroscientific, anthropological and philosophical arguments, I first argue that Pallasmaa’s project is weakened to the point of collapse by the misunderstanding of his intellectual resources, particularly with respect to the use of incompatible concepts of embodiment in Heidegger’s and Merleau-Ponty’s works. I then show how his ideas of embodiment, disinterested vision and sensuality constitute an impoverished account of lived experience that, far from overcoming alienation, mystifies it. I specifically discuss Pallasmaa’s analysis of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West, his comparisons of human- and animal-created structures and his forays into neuroscience. Finally, I dispute Pallasmaa’s claim that an immediate sensual encounter is the route to authentic engagement with the world, and question whether the unmediated lived experience he yearns for is even possible.
Risk perception and use of personal care products by race and ethnicity among a diverse population
Authors: Mandeville Julia , Alkhalaf Zeina , Joannidis Charlotte , Ryan Michelle , Nelson Devon , Quiros-Alcala Lesliam , O'Gribble Matthew , Pollack Anna Z
Published: March 2024

Personal care products can contain phthalates, parabens and other endocrine-disrupting chemicals. However, information on perception of risks from personal care product use and how use varies by race and ethnicity is limited. We evaluated differences in personal care product use and risk perception in a diverse sample of participants recruited from a US college campus and online. A self-administered questionnaire captured information on sociodemographic factors, personal care product use trends and perception of risk associated with them. Pearson’s chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests were used to determine differences in personal care product use and risk perception by race and ethnicity. Ordered logistic regressions were performed to measure associations between personal care product use frequency across racial/ethnic categories. Participant (n = 770) mean age was 22.8 years [standard deviation ± 6.0]. Daily use of make-up (eye = 29.3%; other = 38.0%; all = 33.7%) and skincare products (55%) was most frequently reported among Middle Eastern and North African participants. Non-Hispanic Black participants reported the highest daily use of hairstyling products (52%) and lotion (78%). Daily make-up use was more frequently reported among females (41%) than males (24.6%). Levels of agreement were similar across racial and ethnic groups, that personal care product manufacturers should be required to list all ingredients (≥87%). There were significant associations between the frequency of use of some personal care products and racial/ethnic categories when the use frequencies of participants from other racial/ethnic categories were compared to the use frequency of non-Hispanic White participants. There were significant differences in daily use frequency, levels of trust, perception of safety and health risks associated with personal care products by race and ethnicity, underscoring that there may be different sources of exposure to chemicals in personal care products by race and ethnicity.
Four design principles for student learning of substantive historical concepts – a realistic review study
Authors: Smets Wouter
Published: March 2024

Substantive historical concepts are an essential part of the history curriculum. In contrast to the use of meta-historical concepts, this aspect of historical thinking has received relatively little attention from educational scholars in recent years. This article draws on theory from cognitive developmental psychology, and seeks to apply this in the field of history didactics. In order to foster authoritative judgement in its application in history education, research evidence is synthesised. A realistic review methodology was used to conduct this synthesis. Four context-mechanism-outcome configurations were identified: (1) when working memory is overloaded, effective learning is impossible; (2) to acquire knowledge sustainably, it must be stored as a schema in long-term memory; (3) knowledge is learned more effectively when it builds on previously acquired knowledge; and (4) knowledge will gradually become more easily accessible for working memory. These context-mechanism-outcome configurations stimulate insight into, and long-term memory of, substantive historical concepts. Didactic design principles for teaching substantive historical concepts are proposed, and implications for history education are illustrated and discussed.
Islamic Scientific Critical Consciousness as a theoretical framework for Muslim science educators
Authors: Mirza Usama Javed
Published: March 2024

The suppression of Indigenous knowledge systems that accompanied the colonisation of Muslim lands from North Africa to the Asia-Pacific dismantled the Islamic science tradition, replacing it with a Western oppressive monoculture of secularised ‘modern’ science. Within this context, this article presents a theoretical framework for Muslim science educators, called Islamic Scientific Critical Consciousness. This framework aims to nurture Muslim students to develop the capacity to reinvigorate the Islamic science tradition by taking the positive elements of both the tradition and those of modern science. This entails the need for Muslim students to develop the critical consciousness to recognise colonial ideology being taught as ‘objective’ knowledge and the confidence and ethical orientation to pursue scientific research in harmony with an all-encompassing Islamic world view. This framework builds on Maldonado-Torres’s framework of decoloniality by adapting it to consider the sources of oppressive ideologies from an Islamic perspective in the monocultural school science classroom. The learning outcomes for this Islamic decolonial approach are then developed by integrating Paolo Freire’s idea of critical consciousness with Muhammad Iqbal’s idea of Khudi (selfhood). After building the theoretical framework, suggestions are made on how modern science education can be rethought in both multifaith and Islamic faith-based school settings.
Strategy for the Distribution of Zakat, Infaq and Sedekah Funds in An Effort to Increasing Public Awwareness (Case Study BAZNAS Tasikmalaya Regency)
Authors: Syara Sabilla Fauziani  , Lala Nardilah Nur Azmi  , Dewi Anggarani
Published: March 2024

Zakat sebagai rukun Islam merupakan kewajiban setiap Muslim yang mampu membayarnya dan diperuntukkan bagi mereka yang berhak menerimanya. Dengan pengelolaan yang baik, zakat merupakan sumber dana potensial yang dimanfaatkan untuk memajukan kesejahteraan umum bagi seluruh masyarakat. Penyaluran zakat berguna sebagai pemberdayaan ekonomi umat seperti memberantas kemiskinan, meningkatkan kesehatan umat, meningkatkan kualitas pendidikan umat dan menjadi salah satu sumber dana sosial ekonomi umat bagi umat Islam. BAZNAS Kabupaten Tasikmalaya mempunyai program peningkatan ekonomi produktif dengan mendistribusikan zakat secara produktif. Inilah yang membuat penulis tertarik untuk menelitinya. Yang menjadi pokok permasalahan dalam penelitian ini, yaitu: Pertama, adanya mustahik yang mengaku sebagai musafir; Kedua, kurangnya literasi masyarakat mengenai penerima zakat (mustahik). penelitian ini menggunakan jenis penelitian deskriptif dengan pendekatan kualitatif,. Sumber data yang digunakan berasal dari data primer berupa wawancara dan observasi serta data sekunder berupa buku-buku, dokumentasi, media internet yang ada kaitannya dengan penelitian yang akan dilakukan.
Pengaruh Tingkat Pemahaman Masyarakat terhadap Produk Pegadaian Syariah Kota Makassar
Authors: Asrini  , Muhammad Najib Kasim  , Agusdiwana Suarni
Published: March 2024

Penelitian ini bermula dari rendahnya pemahaman masyarakat tentang Pegadaian Syariah, yang disebabkan oleh mayoritas pengguna layanan keuangan Pegadaian berasal dari golongan ekonomi menengah ke bawah. Umumnya, mereka tidak memiliki tingkat pendidikan yang tinggi, sehingga pemahaman mereka mengenai Pegadaian Syariah masih terbatas. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menilai dampak tingkat pemahaman masyarakat terhadap produk yang ditawarkan oleh Pegadaian Syariah Kota Makassar. Metode penelitian yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah metode kuantitatif. Teknik pengumpulan data yang dilakukan berupa observasi, kuesioner, dan dokumentasi. Jumlah populasi sebanyak 822.750 orang dan menggunakan sampel slovin sehingga diperoleh 100 responden. Hasil penelitian ini membuktikan berdasarkan perhitungan uji regresi linier sederhana, Koefisien regresi Xsebesar 0,784memberikan arti bahwa Tingkat Pemahaman Masyarakat (X) berpengaruh Positif terhadap Produk Pegadaian Syariah (Y). Hal ini menunjukkan bahwa dengan meningkatnya Tingkat Pemahaman Masyarakat, makaterjadi peningkatan pada Produk Pegadaian Syariah. Sebaliknya, jika Tingkat Pemahaman Masyarakat menurun, makaterjadi penurunan pada Produk Pegadaian Syariah.Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa hipoteisis diterima dikarenakan Tingkat Pemahaman Masyarakat (X) dengan Nilai thitung (12.608) > ttabel (1.984) serta nilai signifikannya (0,000) < (0,05) sehingga terbukti bahwa varibel Tingkat Pemahaman Masyarakat berpengaruh Positif dan signifikan terhadap Produk Pegadaian Syariah, maka pada tingkat kekeliruan 5% dinyatakan untuk hipotesis diterima.
Pre-service teachers’ inquisitiveness in mathematics learning
Authors: Umah Ulumul , Rahmawati Ana
Published: March 2024

Inquisitiveness is a critical thinking disposition that is important in the inquiry process because it relates to the tendency to ask questions. However, studies on inquisitiveness in the domain of mathematics learning are still limited. Several previous studies have only explained inquisitiveness based on general attitudes without involving the context of the field of mathematics. This study aims to describe the inquisitiveness of mathematics prospective teacher students which is showed in asking questions. This research is a qualitative research with prospective teacher students at Universitas Pesantren Tinggi Darul Ulum as the participants. The research data was collected through tests, observations, and interviews. The results of the study show that the tendency of prospective mathematics teacher students to ask effective questions when responding to information in mathematical problems is still low. Prospective teachers cannot always ask questions even if they do not understand the rationale behind a statement. Another finding from this study is that even though prospective teachers can ask questions in discussion, their questions cannot meet the inquisitiveness criteria because they are less successful in developing in-depth understanding.
Application of video-assisted online interactive learning to improve student mathematics learning outcomes
Authors: Surur Agus Miftakus Surur , Akhyar Muhammad Khoiril , Ridwanulloh M.Ubaidillah , Mohamed Hasna Binta , Günerhan Hatira
Published: March 2024

Rapid technological developments should support improving the quality of learning, one of which is online learning. . Online learning is carried out because learning in class is limited by space and time, thus limiting learning interactions. This study aims to describe and analyze student learning outcomes in mathematics by using video-assisted online interactive learning. Classroom Action Research (CAR) is used in this study with some stages namely preparation, action, observation, and reflection. The results of online learning using interactive videos are cycle I on student learning outcomes that obtain scores exceeding the minimum completeness score of 57% and are said to be complete. However, there are still 43% of students who obtain learning outcomes that are less than the minimum standard of completeness or have not been completed. The cause of this is the initial adaptation of students to using media that is packaged interactively. It was continued in the second cycle of learning to produce a learning completeness percentage of 86% for students who had exceeded the minimum standard of mastery scores. This shows an increase from cycle I to cycle II. In cycle II, the process of adaptation and the active participation of students began to have an impact on learning outcomes. Continuing in cycle III shows that the number of students who complete learning reaches 86%, the same as in cycle II, but there are still differences. Cycle II to Cycle III experienced an increase in the average value of learning outcomes, namely cycle II of 76.36; in cycle III, it increased to 78.79. These results indicate that online interactive learning using video can improve student mathematics learning outcomes.
Distribution, morphology, and phenology of Piper acutistigmum C. DC. – an endemic species of the Eastern Himalayan region
Authors: Yakang Tage , Gajurel Padma Raj , Singh Binay
Published: March 2024

Piper acutistigmum C. DC. is an endemic species of the Eastern Himalayan region found in northeast India with the adjacent country Myanmar. A study was conducted to examine the distribution, morphology, and phenology of the species, which is an important step towards its conservation. Field surveys were conducted to locate the population, and observations were made on selected plants from three distinct locations. The study revealed that the species is mostly found in the foothills of Arunachal Pradesh and its bordering areas in Assam. The orthotropic and plagiotropic branches show distinct differences in terms of leaf size and shape, petiole, and internodal length. The average sizes of the leaves were 10 × 6 cm and 21.5 × 12.5 cm; petiole length was 3.7 cm and 2.25 cm and internodal length was 17.5 and 6.5 cm in orthotropic and plagiotropic branches, respectively. Leaf flushing occurs between the March and April months, more or less in synchronization with the emergence of the spike bud. The species starts flowering from April until the end of May. The fruiting spikes are observed from July to December. Sterile vines are most dominant in a population with a few fertile (male and female) individuals. The existing natural population is under threat from various developmental activities in and around their habitat and needs immediate attention for conservation.
Herbal Healing Traditions: A Study of Folk Medicines Used by Traditional Healers of Sonamukhi Block, Bankura District, West Bengal, India
Authors: Bhadra Aratrika , BT Manjunath
Published: March 2024

This ethnobotanical study aims to dive into the traditional medicinal practices used by tribals in Sonamukhi Block, Bankura district, West Bengal, India. Focusing on the use of medicinal herbs, the study carefully investigates the intergenerational wisdom kept by traditional healers, who play an important role in healthcare administration. Through conversations with traditional healers and patients, a thorough list of medicinal plants used to treat various diseases has been developed. The study demonstrates that traditional healers successfully use these medicinal plants to produce herbal medications, offering insights into the painstaking process of herbal medicine preparation that was explored in depth during the investigation. These findings highlight the significance of joint efforts to preserve indigenous knowledge and encourage the incorporation of traditional healing techniques into contemporary healthcare. The research study focused on the complicated junction of scientific methodologies and traditional beliefs, indicating the possibility for effective collaboration between scientific institutions and indigenous populations to improve healthcare practices. The studies' thorough examination of medicinal plant usage and herbal medication manufacturing emphasizes the importance of preserving, recording, and using this unique traditional knowledge for the benefit of world healthcare.
“Profesora is doing a great job!” or “Online learning sucks”: The relationship between students’ profiles and online language learning
Authors: Wu Ching-Hsuan , Robles-Puente Sergio , Thompson Amy S.
Published: March 2024

The impetus of this study is to investigate students’ attitudes towards online language learning based on their previous academic experiences and year of study, including the decision to major or minor (i.e., motivation). A total of 975 students completed a survey questionnaire consisting of background information, Likert scale items, and open-ended questions. The quantitative data were analyzed using an exploratory factor analysis and one-way ANOVAs and were complemented with qualitative data based on students’ responses. Findings indicate that students generally want consistent access to online learning, and that students with prior online-learning experience or with a desire to take an online course presented a statistically significant more positive perception of online language classes. There were also differences in perception of success in the online classes between those students who intended to major or minor in the language and those who did not. The results further revealed a decline in perception of success in online classes with the higher-level classifications (i.e., year of study). This study provides baseline attitudinal data to be built upon in future research and informs stakeholders of language programs in their curricular decisions.
Microbial dynamics and dehydrogenase activity in tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) rhizospheres: Impacts on growth and soil health across different soil types
Authors: Suliman Kamal Hassan , Gaafar Abdel-Rhman Z. , Abdelmalik Abdelmalik M. , AlMunqedhi Bandar M. , Elzein Abdalla , Hodhod Mohamed S.
Published: March 2024

The dehydrogenase activity (DHA) in the rhizospheres of tomatoes grown in different soil types – Khor Abu-Habil (KA), Bara (B), and Greenhouse (Gr) – in North Kordofan, Sudan, was determined. In addition, the abundance of soil microbes in the tomato rhizospheres during the two growth stages, after 45 and 90 days (short and long term), was analyzed. The KA site (clay soil) showed the highest DHA (81.79 CFUs/g) followed by the B site (63.76 CFUs/g) (sandy loam) after 90 days of sowing, and the Gr site showed the lowest DHA (44.50 CFUs/g) (loamy sand soil) after 45 days. Moreover, the presence of high microbial activity (total density counts, total fungi, phosphate-solubilizing bacteria, Streptomycetes sp., Azotobacter sp., Azospirillum sp., and Pseudomonas sp. density counts) after 90 days and minimum microbial abundance after 45 days were identified at all sites. The measured growth parameters of fresh and dry weight, in addition to the root-to-shoot ratio, increased significantly at the same KA site dominated by a higher microbial density after 90 days. During the long term, the growth stage was positively affected by the abundance of adapted microbials that improve and enhance plant growth.
Binary relations applied to the fuzzy substructures of quantales under rough environment
Authors: Mazher Qurashi Saqib , Almutairi Bander , Xin Qin , Sumaira Kanwal Rani , Aqsa
Published: March 2024

Binary relations (BIRs) have many applications in computer science, graph theory, and rough set theory. This study discusses the combination of BIRs, fuzzy substructures of quantale, and rough fuzzy sets. Approximation of fuzzy subsets of quantale with the help of BIRs is introduced. In quantale, compatible and complete relations in terms of aftersets and foresets with the help of BIRs are defined. Furthermore, we use compatible and complete relations to approximate fuzzy substructures of quantale, and these approximations are interpreted by aftersets and foresets. This concept generalizes the concept of rough fuzzy quantale. Finally, using BIRs, quantale homomorphism is used to build a relationship between the approximations of fuzzy substructures of quantale and the approximations of their homomorphic images.
Influencing Factors of Work–Life Balance Among Female Managers in Chinese Higher Education Institutions: A Delphi Study
Authors: Tang Shu , Wider Walton , Ng Chee Pung , Jiang Leilei , Tanucan Jem Cloyd M. , Bien Jonna Karla C. , Udang Lester Naces
Published: March 2024

This research focuses on female managers and aims to explore the factors influencing work–life balance among female managers in Chinese higher education institutions (HEIs), while also ranking the importance of these factors within HEIs. The research is divided into five main sections and employs a two-round Delphi research method, utilizing expert discussions and opinions to thoroughly analyze the work–life balance challenges faced by female managers. The findings of the research reveal six primary dimensions that influence the work–life balance of female managers in Chinese HEIs. These factors, ranked in order of importance, are as follows: (1) family factors, (2) work-related factors, (3) cultural and social norms, (4) health factors, (5) self-management and personal skills, and (6) support and satisfaction. In conclusion, this research offers valuable recommendations for understanding and improving the work–life balance of female managers in Chinese HEIs, providing essential guidance for both these institutions and female managers in achieving a balanced development in their professional and personal lives.
Hybrid RSA–AES-Based Software-Defined Network to Improve the Security of MANET
Authors: Walle Yelkal Mulualem
Published: March 2024

Software-defined networking offers a flexible and programmatically efficient network design. Security in today’s ad hoc mobile wireless network is paramount and incredibly challenging. Software-defined network is used to automatically and dynamically manage and control large network devices, network services, traffic paths, network topology, and packet management (quality of service). Recently different attackers are attacking our data when forwarding from one device to another. Therefore, software-defined networking and a Hybrid Rivest, Shamir, and Adelman (RSA)–Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) cryptography algorithm are needed to establish the concept of software-defined networking in mobile ad hoc networks to improve security and routing efficiency. The proposed Hybrid Cryptography Algorithm (HCA)-Based SDN mainly creates strong detection, prevention, and authentication mechanisms for MANET. The proposed secure data channel throughput increased by 0.4%, and the suggested system latency was 3.6% lower than the Normal MANET. It is already proved that the Hybrid cryptography algorithm also generates a key for security faster than RSA (Rivest, Shamir, and Adelman). The performance of the RSA–AES (hybrid) approach for encrypting and decrypting broad data significantly beats the RSA-Blowfish algorithm. In decrypting files, the hybrid approach (RSA–AES) outperforms the RSA-Blowfish method 11.2 times more efficiently when the file size is 32 kB; however, efficiency is increased by 77.1 times when the file size exceeds 4,096 kB. The experimental result shows that as the file size increases the hybrid RSA–AES solution outperforms RSA when the file is only 145 bytes; however, when the file is 6,460 bytes in size, the efficiency is multiplied by 61.3. As file size increases, RSA is less efficient than the hybrid encryption method. This is more preferred to be implemented for different parts of wireless networks like MANET.
Acute effects of transcranial direct current stimulation on cycling performance in trained male athletes
Authors: Muniz-Pardos Borja , Subias-Perie Jorge , Geda Elisabetta , Molino Luigi , Casajus Jose A. , Pitsiladis Yannis P.
Published: March 2024

Objectives

The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of applying anodal tDCS (2 mA for 20 min) over the scalp from T3 (anodal-tDCS) to Fp2 (cathodal-tDCS) on the perceptual, physiological and performance responses during maximal incremental and constant-load exercise (CLE) in trained cyclists.

Methods

Eleven male cyclists performed maximal incremental exercise (MIE) on a cycle ergometer under either tDCS or sham, with power output, heart rate (HR), oxygen uptake (V̇O2), ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) assessed throughout, and blood samples collected before and after MIE. On two separate occasions, nine subjects performed CLE at 62 % of the peak power output followed by a 15 km time trial under either tDCS or sham (n=8 for the time trial).

Results

HR, V̇O2, RPE and blood samples were collected at regular intervals. There were no differences between tDCS and sham in any variable during the MIE. tDCS elicited a decreased HR (F
(4,8)=9.232; p=0.016; η

p

2
=0.54), increased V̇O2 (F
(4,8)=8.920; p=0.015; η

p

2
=0.50) and increased blood non-esterified fatty acids (F
(6,8)=11.754; p=0.009; η

p

2
=0.60) and glycerol (F
(6,8)=6.603; p=0.037; η

p

2
=0.49) concentrations during the CLE when compared to sham. tDCS also improved 15 km time trial performance by 3.6 % (p=0.02; d=0.47) without affecting RPE, HR and blood lactate.

Conclusions

The application of tDCS over the temporal cortex in trained cyclists improved cycling performance during a self-paced time trial but did not enhance performance during maximal incremental exercise. These results are encouraging and merit further investigation of the ergogenic effects of tDCS in trained athletes.
Drug-like properties of serial phenanthroindolizidine alkaloid compounds: ADMET characteristic prediction and validation
Authors: Wang Hongliang , Hu Jinping , Ji Ming , Wang Rubing , Jin Jing , Ye Jun , Zhang Haijing , Li Lin , Wang Renyun , Yang Yanfang , Gao Yue , Xia Xuejun , Xu Xueqing , Gao Lili , Liu Yuling
Published: March 2024

Phenanthroindolizidine alkaloids (PAs) are a series of compounds that have been isolated from traditional herbal medicines and have significant therapeutic potential, such as anti-arthritic, anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, and anti-glioma effects in vitro and in vivo. This study aimed to predict the absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) characteristics of 44 compounds in silico and to verify the ADMET characteristics. The 2-dimensional structures of these compounds were generated using ChemDraw and the characteristics were predicted using ADMET Predictor™ software. Key characteristics, such as pK
a, logP/logD, solubility, permeability, absolute bioavailability in rats, and preliminary toxicity, were measured on some typical compounds to verify the accuracy of the prediction results. The results showed that ADMET predicts physicochemical and biological properties quickly and accurately for PAs. PAs are biopharmaceutics classification system (BCS) class IV compounds with low bioavailability. Moreover, these compounds have higher lipophilicity and are easily distributed into the brain after oral administration to treat brain diseases. However, some of these compounds exhibited colonic toxicity. To improve the drug-like availability of these compounds, more in-depth research should be conducted on drug delivery systems.
Studies of Sb2S3-As2S3 glasses by quenching methods and Raman spectroscopy
Authors:   Laboratoire de Constitution et Réaction de la Matière (LCRM)-Groupe de Chimie des Matériaux Inorganiques, UFR-SSMT, Université Félix Houphouët-Boigny de Cocody, 22 B. P 582 Abidjan 22 (Côte d’Ivoire), N’dri K. , Dally B. M. ,   Laboratoire de Constitution et Réaction de la Matière (LCRM)-Groupe de Chimie des Matériaux Inorganiques, UFR-SSMT, Université Félix Houphouët-Boigny de Cocody, 22 B. P 582 Abidjan 22 (Côte d’Ivoire), Vamoussa C. ,   Laboratoire de Constitution et Réaction de la Matière (LCRM)-Groupe de Chimie des Matériaux Inorganiques, UFR-SSMT, Université Félix Houphouët-Boigny de Cocody, 22 B. P 582 Abidjan 22 (Côte d’Ivoire), Houphouët-Boigny D. ,   Laboratoire de Constitution et Réaction de la Matière (LCRM)-Groupe de Chimie des Matériaux Inorganiques, UFR-SSMT, Université Félix Houphouët-Boigny de Cocody, 22 B. P 582 Abidjan 22 (Côte d’Ivoire)
Published: March 2024

Glasses of Sb2S3-As2S3 system with nominal composition of As0,4xSb0,4(100-x)S60 (where x= 10, 25, 50, 75 and 100 mol% As2S3) were investigated by different quenching methods and Raman spectroscopy. All studied samples were in the vitreous state. The average coordination number (Z), being equal to 2.4, has indicated that the numbers of neighbors of non-chalcogens (As and Sb) and chalcogens (S and Te) atoms were respectively 3 and 2. These coordination numbers were conditions fulfilled by the atoms to obtain vitreous materials. The vibrations of the SbS3 and AsS3 structural units dominated the Raman spectra of the studied Sb2S3-As2S3 glasses.
Investigation on spinnability of low molecular weight alkaline lignin to fabricate biobased carbon fiber
Authors:   School of Environmental and Natural Resources, Zhejiang University of Science & Technology, Hangzhou 310023, Zhejiang, China, Shen C. , Li J. ,   School of Environmental and Natural Resources, Zhejiang University of Science & Technology, Hangzhou 310023, Zhejiang, China, Guo D. ,   School of Environmental and Natural Resources, Zhejiang University of Science & Technology, Hangzhou 310023, Zhejiang, China, Sha L. ,   School of Environmental and Natural Resources, Zhejiang University of Science & Technology, Hangzhou 310023, Zhejiang, China, Li J. ,   School of Environmental and Natural Resources, Zhejiang University of Science & Technology, Hangzhou 310023, Zhejiang, China
Published: March 2024

Using acetic acid instead of dimethylformamide as solvent, lignin-based nanofibers were prepared by electrospinning with industrial low molecular weight lignin. After pre-oxidation and carbonization, the fibril was transformed into carbon fiber. The results showed that different viscosity of spinning solution and different parameters of electrospinning have great influence on the morphology of fibers. The diameter of fibers could be concentrated in 300-500nm by using the best electrospinning process. After carbonizing the fibers, it was found that the lignin fibers could retain the morphology of the fibers after carbonization at a suitable heating rate and holding temperature. This study showed the conditions required for the preparation of carbon fiber from low molecular weight lignin, and provided a way for high value utilization of waste biomass and green preparation of carbon fiber.
Religious Reform: Parallels between the European Reformation and Contemporary Challenges in Muslim-Majority Societies
Authors: Almassry Hazem
Published: March 2024

This article delves into the profound dynamics of religious reform by drawing parallels between the European Reformation and the contemporary challenges facing Muslim-majority societies. While recognizing the unique contexts of these historical periods, the analysis sheds light on essential elements such as freedom, individualism, and the separation of religion from the state. It explores how these principles have played transformative roles in shaping Western modernity and their potential relevance in addressing current issues in Muslim-majority countries. The absence of a centralized religious authority in the latter context presents distinctive challenges, emphasizing the need for decentralized and context-specific reform strategies. The article underscores the importance of a multifaceted approach to reform, involving scholars, religious leaders, intellectuals, and civil society actors, in navigating the intricate path toward progress and renewal. Ultimately, this examination reaffirms the timeless pursuit of reform as a testament to human resilience and the enduring quest for positive change.