bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ORFanID: A web-based search engine for the discovery and identification of orphan and taxonomically restricted genes
Authors: Gunasekera Richard S. , Raja Komal K. B. , Hewapathirana Suresh , Tundrea Emanuel , Gunasekera Vinodh , Galbadage Thushara , Nelson Paul A.
Published: October 2023

With the numerous genomes sequenced today, it has been revealed that a noteworthy percentage of genes in a given taxon of organisms in the phylogenetic tree of life do not have orthologous sequences in other taxa. These sequences are commonly referred to as “orphans” or “ORFans” if found as single occurrences in a single species or as “taxonomically restricted genes” (TRGs) when found at higher taxonomic levels. Quantitative and collective studies of these genes are necessary for understanding their biological origins. However, the current software for identifying orphan genes is limited in its functionality, database search range, and very complex algorithmically. Thus, researchers studying orphan genes must harvest their data from many disparate sources. ORFanID is a graphical web-based search engine that facilitates the efficient identification of both orphan genes and TRGs at all taxonomic levels, from DNA or amino acid sequences in the NCBI database cluster and other large bioinformatics repositories. The software allows users to identify genes that are unique to any taxonomic rank, from species to domain, using NCBI systematic classifiers. It provides control over NCBI database search parameters, and the results are presented in a spreadsheet as well as a graphical display. The tables in the software are sortable, and results can be filtered using the fuzzy search functionality. The visual presentation can be expanded and collapsed by the taxonomic tree to its various branches. Example results from searches on five species and gene expression data from specific orphan genes are provided in the Supplementary Information.
Plant-based red colouration of shell beads 15,000 years ago in Kebara Cave, Mount Carmel (Israel)
Authors: Davin Laurent , Bellot-Gurlet Ludovic , Navas Julien
Published: October 2023

Decorating the living space, objects, body and clothes with colour is a widespread human practice. While the habitual use of red mineral pigments (such as iron-oxide, e.g., ochre) by anatomically modern humans started in Africa about 140,000 years ago, the earliest documentation of the use of organic plant or animal-based red pigments is known from only 6,000 years ago. Here, we report the oldest reliable evidence of organic red pigment use 15,000 years ago by the first sedentary hunter-gatherers in the Levant. SEM-EDS and Raman Spectroscopy analyses of 10 red-stained shell beads enabled us to detect and describe the use of a colourant made of Rubiaceae plants roots (Rubiaspp.,Asperulaspp.,Galliumspp.) to colour personal adornments from the Early Natufian of Kebara cave, Mount Carmel, Israel. This adds a previously unknown behavioural aspect of Natufian societies, namely a well-established tradition of non-dietary plant processing at the beginning of the sedentary lifestyle. Through a combined multidisciplinary approach, our study broadens the perspectives on the ornamental practices and thechaînes opératoiresof pigmenting materials during a crucial period in human history.
Is experience of the HIV/AIDS epidemic associated with responses to COVID-19? Evidence from the Rural Malawi
Authors: Anglewicz Philip , Lamba Sneha , Kohler Iliana , Mwera James , Zulu Andrew , Kohler Hans-Peter
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Starting in late 2019, the coronavirus “SARS-CoV-2”, which causes the disease Covid-19, spread rapidly and extensively. Although many have speculated that prior experience with infectious diseases like HIV/AIDS, Ebola, or SARS would better prepare populations in sub-Saharan Africa for COVID-19, this has not been formally tested, primarily due to data limitations.

Methods

We use longitudinal panel data from the Malawi Longitudinal Study of Families and Health (MLSFH, waves 2006, 2008, and 2020) to examine the association between exposure to the HIV/AIDS epidemic and perceptions of, and behavioral response to, the COVID-19 pandemic. We measured exposure to HIV infection through perceived prevalence of HIV/AIDS in the community, worry about HIV infection, perceived likelihood of HIV infection, and actual HIV status; and the experience of HIV/AIDS-related mortality through self-reports of knowing members of the community and extended family who died from AIDS (measured in 2006 or 2008). Our outcome measures were perceptions of COVID-19 presence in the community, perceptions of individual vulnerability to COVID-19, and prevention strategies to avoid COVID-19 collected through phone-interviews in 2020.

Results

Based on our data analysis using multivariable regression models, we found that the experience of HIV-related mortality was positively associated with perceptions of COVID-19 prevalence in the community and preventive behaviors for COVID-19. However, perceived vulnerability to HIV-AIDS infection and actual HIV positive status 10-years prior to the COVID-19 pandemic are generally not associated with COVID-19 perceptions and behaviors.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that COVID-19-related behaviors are impacted more by experience of AIDS mortality instead of HIV/AIDS risk perceptions, and that individuals may be correctly viewing HIV/AIDS and COVID-19 transmission as distinct disease processes.
A critical analysis of the What3Words geocoding algorithm
Authors: Arthur Rudy
Published: October 2023

What3Words is a geocoding application that uses triples of words instead of alphanumeric coordinates to identify locations. What3Words has grown rapidly in popularity over the past few years and is used in logistical applications worldwide, including by emergency services. What3Words has also attracted criticism for being less reliable than claimed, in particular that the chance of confusing one address with another is high. This paper investigates these claims and shows that the What3Words algorithm for assigning addresses to grid boxes creates many pairs of confusable addresses, some of which are quite close together. The implications of this for the use of What3Words in critical or emergency situations is discussed.
Race, everyday discrimination, and cognitive function in later life
Authors: Ferraro Kenneth F. , Zaborenko Callie J.
Published: October 2023

Discrimination is pernicious in many ways, but there are inconsistent findings regarding whether it is harmful to cognitive function in later life. To address the inconsistency, we use two closely related concepts of everyday discrimination to predict cognitive trajectories in a diverse sample. Using data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), we examine whether the frequency of discrimination, measured at baseline with six questions, is related to poorer cognitive function and change in function over time (2008–2016). Age at baseline ranged from 53 to 100. Growth curve models of initial cognitive function and change in function were estimated. Everyday global discrimination was associated with poorer initial cognition and slower declines over time, and these relationships were not moderated by race and ethnicity. By contrast, the relationship between everyday racial discrimination and cognition was moderated by race: more frequent everyday racial discrimination was associated with better initial cognitive function among Black adults but not among Hispanic and White adults. Discrimination is a multifaceted concept, and specific types of discrimination manifest lower or higher cognitive function during later life for White, Black, and Hispanic adults.
Concordance between whole exome sequencing of circulating tumor DNA and tumor tissue
Authors: Leenanitikul Julanee , Chanchaem Prangwalai , Mankhong Suwanan , Denariyakoon Sikrit , Fongchaiya Valla , Arayataweegool Areeya , Angspatt Pattama , Wongchanapai Ploytuangporn , Prapanpoj Verayuth , Chatamra Kris , Pisitkun Trairak , Sriswasdi Sira , Wongkongkathep Piriya
Published: October 2023

Next generation sequencing of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) has been used as a noninvasive alternative for cancer diagnosis and characterization of tumor mutational landscape. However, low ctDNA fraction and other factors can limit the ability of ctDNA analysis to capture tumor-specific and actionable variants. In this study, whole-exome sequencings (WES) were performed on paired ctDNA and tumor biopsy in 15 cancer patients to assess the extent of concordance between mutational profiles derived from the two source materials. We found that up to 16.4% ctDNA fraction can still be insufficient for detecting tumor-specific variants and that good concordance with tumor biopsy is consistently achieved at higher ctDNA fractions. Most importantly, ctDNA analysis can consistently capture tumor heterogeneity and detect key cancer-related genes even in a patient with both primary and metastatic tumors.
Financial subsidies, tax incentives, and new energy vehicle enterprises’ innovation efficiency: Evidence from Chinese listed enterprises
Authors: Qian Binhua
Published: October 2023

Financial subsidies and tax incentives play essential roles in the innovation efficiency of enterprises. This paper selects Chinese listed NEV enterprises from 2010 to 2022 as a research sample and investigates various impacts under various circumstances. We find that both financial subsidies and tax incentives can promote the innovation efficiency of NEV enterprises. Compared to financial subsidies, tax incentives are more effective; the interaction between financial subsidies and tax incentives has a weaker impact on the innovation efficiency of NEV enterprises. Both financial subsidies and tax incentives have more potent innovation effects on enterprises with higher financing constraints. In addition, financial subsidies and tax incentives have a stronger innovation efficiency effect on private enterprises than state-owned enterprises. Further research shows that marketization and market distortion affect the innovation efficiency of NEV enterprises. This study provides a new perspective for understanding the effects of financial subsidies, tax incentives, and innovation efficiency of NEV enterprises, and the conclusions and suggestions are relevant references for the government to improve the quality of policy-making.
Gender- and age-specific associations between psychosocial work conditions and perceived work sustainability in the general working population in Taiwan
Authors: Cheng Yawen , Li Yi-Jing , Cheng Wan‐Ju
Published: October 2023

Objectives

One aspect of work sustainability pertains to workers’ intention to remain in their current job until reaching retirement age. Various adverse working conditions are expected to diminish work sustainability among different social groups. This study aims to examine these associations across gender and age groups.

Methods

The study participants were 19,152 economically-active adults in a national survey conducted in Taiwan. Information concerning psychosocial working conditions were obtained through interviews, using the Job Content Questionnaire. Work sustainability was evaluated by one question that asked whether the participants felt they would be able to do their current job until the age of 60. The association between psychosocial work conditions and work sustainability was examined by logistic regression analysis. We further performed stratified analysis to explore age and gender-specific associations.

Results

We observed that 14.2% and 17.1% of male and female workers reported low work sustainability. Workers in the electronics industries and female workers in the healthcare and education sectors reported low work sustainability. Gender-specific analyses showed that low job control among men and shift work among women were significantly associated with low work sustainability. Age-specific analyses indicated that having poor health, shift work, and long working hours in younger workers, and having low job control in older workers were associated with low work sustainability.

Conclusion

To retain older workers in the labor market, policies should aim at the improvement of psychosocial work conditions, and gender- and age-specific issues should be taken into consideration.
Abdominal surgery induces long-lasting changes in expression and binding of CTCF with impact on Major Histocompatibility Complex II transcription in circulating human monocytes
Authors: Siegler Benedikt Hermann , Thon Jan Niklas , Altvater Marc , Schenz Judith , Larmann Jan , Weigand Markus Alexander , Weiterer Sebastian
Published: October 2023

Background

Postoperative immunosuppression has been recognized as an important driver of surgery-related morbidity and mortality. It is characterized by lymphocyte depression and impaired monocyte capability to present foreign antigens to T-cells via Major Histocompatibility Complex, Class II (MHC-II) molecules. In patients with postoperative abdominal sepsis, we previously detected a persisting differential binding of the CCCTC-Binding Factor (CTCF), a superordinate regulator of transcription, inside the MHC-II region with specific impact on human leucocyte antigen (HLA) gene expression. In this prospective exploratory study, we investigated to which extent major surgery affects the MHC-II region of circulating CD14+-monocytes.

Results

In non-immunocompromised patients undergoing elective major abdominal surgery, a postoperative loss of monocyte HLA-DR surface receptor density was accompanied by a decline in the transcription levels of the classical MHC-II genes HLA-DRA, HLA-DRB1, HLA-DPA1 and HLA-DPB1. The surgical event decreased the expression of the transcriptional MHC-II regulators CIITA and CTCF and led to a lower CTCF enrichment at an intergenic sequence within the HLA-DR subregion. During the observation period, we found a slow and only incomplete restoration of monocyte HLA-DR surface receptor density as well as a partial recovery of CIITA, HLA-DRA and HLA-DRB1 expression. In contrast, transcription of HLA-DPA1, HLA-DPB1, CTCF and binding of CTCF within the MHC-II remained altered.

Conclusion

In circulating monocytes, major surgery does not globally affect MHC-II transcription but rather induces specific changes in the expression of selected HLA genes, followed by differential recovery patterns and accompanied by a prolonged reduction of CTCF expression and binding within the MHC-II region. Our results hint toward a long-lasting impact of a major surgical intervention on monocyte functionality, possibly mediated by epigenetic changes that endure the life span of the individual cell.
Specialization in the marketplace for ideas
Authors: Wang Sirui , Macy Michael , Nee Victor
Published: October 2023

Organizations that compete for attention in the marketplace face a strategic decision: whether to target a specialized niche or diversify to reach a broader market. Previous research has extensively analyzed the specialization dilemma faced by for-profit firms. We extend the analysis to knowledge-sharing groups in the marketplace of ideas. Using data on over 1,500 technology groups collected from an online event-organizing platform over a fifteen-year period, we measure the effect of topical focus, rarity, novelty, and technical exclusivity on audience growth, retention, and sustained engagement. We find that knowledge-sharing groups benefit marginally by specializing in rare topics but not in new topics. The strongest predictor of growth and survival is whether the group is associated with technically sophisticated topics, regardless of the breadth of focus, even though technical topics are less widely accessible. We conclude that what matters is not how specialized the organization, but how the organization is specialized.
Socioeconomic inequalities, psychosocial stressors at work and physician-diagnosed depression: Time-to-event mediation analysis in the presence of time-varying confounders
Authors: Pena-Gralle Ana Paula Bruno , Talbot Denis , Trudel Xavier , Milot Alain , Gilbert-Ouimet Mahée , Lavigne-Robichaud Mathilde , Ndjaboué Ruth , Lesage Alain , Lauzier Sophie , Vézina Michel , Siegrist Johannes , Brisson Chantal
Published: October 2023

Objectives

There is evidence that both low socioeconomic status (SES) and psychosocial stressors at work (PSW) increase risk of depression, but prospective studies on the contribution of PSW to the socioeconomic gradient of depression are still limited.

Methods

Using a prospective cohort of Quebec white-collar workers (n = 9188 participants, 50% women), we estimated randomized interventional analogues of the natural direct effect of SES indicators at baseline (education level, household income, occupation type and a combined measure) and of their natural indirect effects mediated through PSW (job strain and effort-reward imbalance (ERI) measured at the follow-up in 1999–2001) on incident physician-diagnosed depression.

Results

During 3 years of follow-up, we identified 469 new cases (women: 33.1 per 1000 person-years; men: 16.8). Mainly in men, low SES was a risk factor for depression [education: hazard ratio 1.72 (1.08–2.73); family income: 1.67 (1.04–2.67); occupational type: 2.13 (1.08–4.19)]. In the entire population, exposure to psychosocial stressors at work was associated with increased risk of depression [job strain: 1.42 (1.14–1.78); effort-reward imbalance (ERI) 1.73 (1.41–2.12)]. The estimated indirect effects of socioeconomic indicators on depression mediated through job strain ranged from 1.01 (0.99–1.03) to 1.04 (0.98–1.10), 4–15% of total effects, and for low reward from 1.02 (1.00–1.03) to 1.06 (1.01–1.11), 10–15% of total effects.

Discussion

Our study suggests that PSW only slightly mediate the socioeconomic gradient of depression, but that socioeconomic inequalities, especially among men, and PSW both increase the incidence of depression.
Decreasing rates of colectomy for benign neoplasms: A nationwide analysis
Authors: Sakowitz Sara , Bakhtiyar Syed Shahyan , Mallick Saad , Khoraminejad Baran , Olmedo Manuel , Croman Millicent , Benharash Peyman , Lee Hanjoo
Published: October 2023

Background

Despite advances in endoscopic techniques for management of benign colonic neoplasms, a rise in rates of surgical treatment has been reported. We used a nationally representative cohort to characterize temporal trends, patient characteristics, and outcomes associated with colectomy for colonic neoplasms.

Methods

All patients undergoing elective partial colectomy for benign or malignant colonic neoplasms were identified using the 2012–2019 National Inpatient Sample. Those presenting with inflammatory bowel disease, or experiencing intestinal perforation were excluded. Patients with benign neoplasms were classified as the Benign cohort (others: Malignant). Trends, characteristics, and outcomes were assessed between groups.

Results

Of 569,280 colectomy procedures included for analysis, 153,435 (27.0%) were performed for benign lesions. The proportion of Benign operations decreased from 28.6% in 2012 to 23.7% in 2019 (P for trend<0.001). While overall national incidence of colectomy for benign neoplasms decreased from 2012 to 2019 (IRD -1.19, 95%CI -1.20- -1.19), Black patients demonstrated an incremental increase (IRD +0.04, 95%CI +0.02–0.06).

On average, Benign was younger (66 [57–72] vs 68 years [58–77], P<0.001), and demonstrated a lower Elixhauser comorbidity index (2 [1–3] vs 3 [2–4], P<0.001), relative to Malignancy. Following adjustment, Benign demonstrated lower odds of in-hospital mortality (AOR 0.61, 95%CI 0.50–0.74; P<0.001), stoma creation (AOR 0.46, 95%CI 0.43–0.50; P<0.001), and infectious complications (AOR 0.68, 95%CI 0.63–0.73; P<0.001).

Conclusions

The present national study identifies a decrease in colectomy for benign polyps from 2012–2019. Future investigations should identify patients who would most benefit from surgical resection and address persistent inequities in access to screening and treatment for colonic neoplasms.
An updated meta-analysis investigating the association between DNMTs gene polymorphism andgastric cancer risk
Authors: Zhang Yu-Long , Wang Yu-Wei , He Ming-Jie , Chang Jian-Lan
Published: October 2023

Gastric cancer (GC) is a prominent global health issue, as it ranks as the fifth most prevalent type of cancer and the fourth most significant cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Although H. pylori is known to play a role in the development of GC, genetic factors also play a role in its onset and progression. Recent studies have shown that genetic polymorphisms are strongly associated with the development of GC and that certain single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) can be used as biomarkers for early diagnosis and prevention. Epigenetic disturbances, such as DNA methylation, are involved in the development of GC, and mutations in the DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) gene have been found to increase the risk of GC. However, previous findings on the association between DNMTs SNPs and GC risk have been inconsistent. In this study, an updated meta-analysis of three well-studied and controversial DNMTs polymorphic loci, DNMT1 rs16999593, DNMT3A rs1550117 and DNMT3B rs1569686, was performed to provide more reliable results. It was found that DNMT1 rs16999593 was not associated with GC, DNMT3A rs1550117 may have a positive association with GC risk, and DNMT3B rs1569686 may be a protective factor for GC. These findings may provide valuable information for early diagnosis and prevention of GC, but further studies are needed to confirm these results.
Low-cost domestic rainwater harvesting in rural southeast Madagascar: A process and outcome evaluation
Authors: Kelly Jasmine , Tsilahatsy Mamonjisoa , Carnot Tolotra , Fidelos Ramanantsiadiana Wilmin , Randriamanampy Giona , Charlier Andrianarivelo Zafindrazana , Kowalczewski Emilie , Hasoavana Lomba , Andriatsihosena Mamy , Chaplin Harry , Legge Hugo
Published: October 2023

In settings where communities rely on unimproved water sources, household rainwater harvesting (HRWH) may improve the quality and quantity of water available. This research presents results from a two-year controlled before-and-after study that evaluated the impact of low-cost HRWH on household water collection habits, hygiene practices and prevalence of childhood diarrhoea in rural Madagascar. The study assessed system functionality, water quality and the acceptability of requesting household financial investment (16–20 USD). Surveys were administered to enrolled intervention households (n = 138) and control households (n = 276) at baseline and endline. Water quality tests at endline compared microbial contamination in a sub-sample of HRWH systems (n = 22) and public water sources (n = 8). Difference-in-difference analyses were used to compare changes in outcomes between study arms at baseline and endline. At endline 111 (75%) of systems were functional with an average age of 1.25 years. Microbial contamination was 39.3 TTC/100ml in community water sources compared with 23.3 TTC/100ml in the HRWH systems (coef: -16.0, 95CI: -37.3 to 5.2, p = 0.133). 85 (57%) of households completed their repayment plans while remaining households owed on average 3.7 USD. There was weak evidence to suggest that intervention households collected more water per capita day than controls (adj coefficient: 3.45; 95CI: -2.51 to 9.41, p = 0.257). Intervention households had 11% higher absolute risk of owning a handwashing station compared against controls (95CI: 0.00 to 0.23; p = 0.06). There was no evidence of differences in ownership of soap or prevalence of childhood diarrhoea between study arms. Overall, operation and maintenance of the systems remained high, users demonstrated willingness to pay, and there was weak evidence that water provision at the household increased domestic consumption. However, the systems did not provide contaminant-free water. We conclude that HRWH using low-cost, locally available materials can increase household access to water in areas reliant on limited communal water sources.
Kids on the Street: Queer Kinship and Religion in San Francisco’s Tenderloin, Joseph Plaster (2023)
Authors: Hodgson Jack
Published: October 2023

Review of: Kids on the Street: Queer Kinship and Religion in San Francisco’s Tenderloin, Joseph Plaster (2023)

Durham, NC and London: Duke University Press, 358 pp.,

ISBN 978-1-47801-895-7, p/bk, $28.95
On Creative Practice and the Power of 1970s Film: An Interview with Todd Field
Authors: Kreul Alison
Published: October 2023

Todd Field has captivated audiences with psychologically complex characters and richly layered screenplays. Sixteen years after his second film, Little Children (2006), he made an astonishing return to the silver screen with TÁR (2022), a psychological drama about the rise and fall of world-renowned conductor Lydia Tár, played by Cate Blanchett. In this interview, Field shares his creative writing process and what advice was given to him by his father-in-law, legendary screenwriter and Academy Award-winner Bo Goldman. Additionally, Field discusses extraordinary cinematic influences of the 1970s, watching The French Connection (1971) with Paul Thomas Anderson and his outlook on the future.
Janus in the Moon: Al Reinert’s For All Mankind
Authors: Klein Paul
Published: October 2023

Review of: Janus in the Moon: Al Reinert’s For All Mankind

For All Mankind (1988)

USA

Director Al Reinert

Runtime 80 minutes

Blu-ray/4K UHD

USA, 2022

Distributed by The Criterion Collection (region A/1)
Mississippi Masala (1991)
Authors: Verhar Emi
Published: October 2023

Review of: Mississippi Masala (1991)

USA/UK

Director Mira Nair

Runtime 117 minutes

Blu-ray

USA, 2022

Distributed by The Criterion Collection (region A/1)
A forest fire hazard model and map for a wildland urban interface not meteorologically prone to forest fires
Authors: Amezketa Esperanza , Ciriza Raquel , Viñuales Mikel
Published: October 2023

Fire Hazard (FH) modelling is a relevant fire prevention/assessment tool. This work proposes a FH model and generates a FH map for a wildland urban interface area in Germany that is not prone to extreme fires. The main input data include weather, topography, fuel, and anthropic-related potential ignition points. The main steps include (1) identification/description of weather scenarios, and for each scenario (2) analysis of potential fire ignition through simulation of Fire Probability (FP), (3) modelling the potential fire behaviour through simulation of Fireline Intensity (FLI), (4) generation of a FH map by combining FP and FLI maps, and (5) integration of all maps into a final FH map. Extreme ignition and propagation conditions were considered: (1) a fuel model that describes the fire performance in an extreme drought scenario, (2) the human influence through mechanistic ignitions, and (3) the worst case of all scenarios. As results, four weather scenarios were identified and described. FP maps, FLI maps, and FH maps were created for each of them, and finally an integrated FH map (IFHM) was derived.
Effects of a Nutritional Supplement Combination on Blood Glucose Measurements in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Pachota Jaime , Ramirezb Edgardo , Gonzaleza Michael , Miranda-Massari, Jorge
Published: October 2023

We studied the effect of a dietary supplement on blood glucose. This prospective, single-arm, unblinded clinical interventional study investigated the impact of a nutritional supplement combination on fasting glucose and glycated hemoglobin (A1c) levels, which were measured before and after the intervention. The supplement, which consisted of organic mulberry leaf extract, LactoSpore probiotics, and Fenumannan prebiotic, was given to adult (age ≥21 years) prediabetics and adults with type 2 diabetes (A1c >5.60 mg/dL). The study protocol comprised six phases including initial and final tests for fasting glucose and A1c, and a 12-week period of supplement administration. The statistical analyses were carried out using SPSS and Intellectus Statistics. A total of 24 participants completed the study. A reduction of 0.94% in the A1c level and 40.52% in the fasting glucose level were found. These preliminary findings suggest that the nutritional supplement combination might be clinically effective in reducing fasting glucose and A1c in prediabetic adults and those with type 2 diabetes.
Transformation Of Islamic Education: A Study Of Changes In The Transformation Of The Education Curriculum
Authors: Sholeh Muh ibnu sholeh , Habibur Rohman  , Eko Agus Suwandi  , Akhyak  , Nur Efendi  , As'aril Muhajir
Published: October 2023

Purpose – This study aims to identify the best implementation strategies in transformative Islamic education, explore transformative Islamic education activities that can inspire transformative learning, and analyze the transformation of Islamic education in Indonesia through curriculum transformation.
Design/methods/approach – This research approach uses library research. Literature studies are obtained from various sources such as scientific journals, books, seminar papers, and related publications. The paradigm of data analysis in this study includes data collection, reduction, presentation, and conclusions.
Findings – The researchers obtained three findings in this study. First, there are two best implementation strategies when implementing transformative education: A). To offer critical thinking opportunities b). To offer opportunities to act from a new perspective. Second, there are five transformative educational activities that can inspire transformative learning, including: a). Job shadowing; B). Scenario-based education; C). Cultural adaptation in the workplace; D). Career change; and e). Establish cooperation with various educational institutions. Third, one of the education transformations that has been carried out in Indonesia is by transforming the curriculum starting in 1947, 1964, 1968, 1973, 1975, 1984, 1994, 1997, 2004, 2006, 2013, and current curriculum. The independent learning (self-regulated learning) curriculum has reached its 22nd episode
Research Implications/Limitations – Data sources are limited to online and offline scientific literature. Future researchers can use in-depth interview and observation techniques to make the results more reliable
Originality/value – The findings of this study provide an overview of implementation strategies and transformative Islamic education activities in a new perspective.
I have my mother
Authors: Machi Nolwazi
Published: October 2023

"I have my mother", a poem by Nolwazi Machi
Size of Passive Solar Greenhouse Determine Growth and Yield of Cauliflower and Cabbage During Winter in High Mountain Ladakh Region, India
Authors: Dolma Tsering , Kumar Rohit , Namgail Desyong , Chaurasia OP , Stobdan Tsering
Published: October 2023

The length and span of passive solar greenhouse are important factors that determine greenhousemicroclimate. However, there are no established length and span recommendations for guiding construction of passive solar greenhouse in high altitude regions, especially above 3000 m asl. Majority of the farmers in trans- Himalayan regions have preference for low-cost small size (<10 m length) passive solar greenhouses. We studied two different sized greenhouses and found that a large greenhouse (27.4 m length, 8.2 m width) was better than a small greenhouse (9.8 m length, 5.5 m width) for growing cauliflower and cabbage in winter. The large greenhouse remained 1.5±0.3 to 7.4±2.1 °C warmer during daytime, and 0.6±0.1 to 1.5±0.8 °C warmer at night. All the recorded plant growth parameters were higher in the large greenhouse. The mean marketable weight of cauliflower cv. Shantha was 599±35 g in the large greenhouse as against 537±42 g in the small greenhouse. Similarly, the marketable weight of cabbage cv. Golden Acre in the large greenhouse was significantly higher (619±53 g) than the small greenhouse (523±121 g). Therefore, large passive solar greenhouses are recommended for farmers in high altitude trans-Himalayan Ladakh regions.
Selection of Combat Aircraft by Using Shannon Entropy and VIKOR Method
Authors: Dwivedi Pankaj Prasad , Sharma Dilip Kumar
Published: October 2023

The selection of military defense equipment, especially fighter aircraft, has a bearing on the readiness ofthe Indian Air Force to defend the country’s independence. This study analyses a collection of alternative fighteraircraft that are linked to several choice factors using a multiple-criterion decision-making analysis technique. Tohandle such scenarios and make wise design judgements, a variety of criterion decision analysis techniques can beused. In this study, we assess fifth-generation fighter aircraft that incorporate significant 21st-century technologicaladvancements. These aircraft represent the state-of-the-art in fleet planning operations to 2022. These are generallyequipped with quick-moving airframes, highly integrated computer systems, superior avionics features, networkingwith other battlefield elements, situational awareness, command, control, and other communication capabilities.The study proposes a strategy for the selection of the fifth-generation combat aircraft for the National Air Force.Because of the problems, the Army needed an application that could assist with decision-making for combat selection systems. Solving the decision problem for evaluating fifteen military fighter alternatives in terms of nine decision criteria is the main objective of this work. We use the Shannon entropy and VIKOR model for the Air Force’s fleet program to evaluate military fighter aircraft suitability. The entropy technique is used to compute the weight of the criteria, and then the VIKOR technique has been used to rank the fighter aircraft.
A Frequency Tunable Dielectric Resonator Antenna with Reduction of Cross Polarisation for Wi MAX and Sub 6 GHz 5G Applications
Authors: Kumar Rajkishor , Chandra Avinash , Mishra Naveen , Chaudhary Raghvendra Kumar
Published: October 2023

A frequency Tunable (mechanical tuning) Linearly Polarized (TLP) rectangular Dielectric Resonator Antenna(DRA) coupled with a horizontal/vertical-slot and excited with circular-ring type feed is investigated in this article.The frequency tunability (mechanical tuning) is achieved by the rotation of slot at different angles of the proposedstructure. Hence, two linearly polarized antennas have been proposed for different frequency bands such as Wi-MAX and Sub-6 GHz/5G, respectively, using slot variations (named as DRA-1 and DRA-2). TE 11δ mode has been excited in both the DRAs and confirmed by orientation of electric field inside the rectangular DRA. The measured -10 dB input impedance bandwidths of DRA-1 offer 21.60 % being centered at 2.87 GHz and the separation of co-polarized and cross-polarized field levels is above -24 dB in the broadside direction (xz-plane). Whereas DRA-2 offers measured -10 dB input impedance bandwidths of 23.03% being centered at 3.56 GHz having a separation of co-polarized and cross-polarized field levels are above -23 dB in the broadside direction (xz-plane). In addition, the proposed DRA-1 and DRA-2 show a maximum gain of 5.23 dBi and 4.75 dBi in broadside direction, respectively.
Gait Parameter Tuning Using Bayesian Optimization for an Alligator Inspired Amphibious Robot
Authors: Thakur Atul
Published: October 2023

This paper reports a sample-efficient Bayesian optimization approach for tuning the locomotion parameters of an in-house developed twelve degrees of freedom alligator-inspired amphibious robot. An optimization framework is used wherein the objective is to maximize the mean robot speed obtained via physical experiments performed on terrains with varying friction and inclinations and in the aquatic environment for swimming locomotion. We obtained an improvement in the mean robot speed by a factor of up to 6.38 using the developed approach over randomly generated locomotion parameters in 15 iterations.
Deep Learning Techniques in Radar Emitter Identification
Authors: Gupta Preeti , Jain Pooja , Kakde O G
Published: October 2023

In the field of electronic warfare (EW), one of the crucial roles of electronic intelligence is the identification of radar signals. In an operational environment, it is very essential to identify radar emitters whether friend or foe so that appropriate radar countermeasures can be taken against them. With the electromagnetic environment becoming increasingly complex and the diversity of signal features, radar emitter identification with high recognition accuracy has become a significantly challenging task. Traditional radar identification methods have shown some limitations in this complex electromagnetic scenario. Several radar classification and identification methods based on artificial neural networks have emerged with the emergence of artificial neural networks, notably deep learning approaches. Machine learning and deep learning algorithms are now frequently utilized to extract various types of information from radar signals more accurately and robustly. This paper illustrates the use of Deep Neural Networks (DNN) in radar applications for emitter classification and identification. Since deep learning approaches are capable of accurately classifying complicated patterns in radar signals, they have demonstrated significant promise for identifying radar emitters. By offering a thorough literature analysis of deep learning-based methodologies, the study intends to assist researchers and practitioners in better understanding the application of deep learning techniques to challenges related to the classification and identification of radar emitters. The study demonstrates that DNN can be used successfully in applications for radar classification and identification.
Design and Verification of Carefree Maneuvering Protection for a High Performance Fighter Aircraft
Authors: Jebakumar S.K. , Pashilkar Abhay A. , Sundararajan N.
Published: October 2023

Flight envelope protection for a high-performance aircraft poses a challenge to the designers and involves a time-consuming procedure to verify the provided protection. This paper presents a design approach to protect the aircraft from departure by a command path limiter for a rate command attitude hold controller in both the pitch and roll axes. In this approach, the maximum and minimum rates are scheduled as a function of the dynamic pressure on the basis of the open loop aircraft capabilities. This is then augmented with a novel angle of attack protection that comes into play only when the pilot inputs cause the aircraft to exceed the incidence on the positive or negative side (one sided protection), while maintaining the rate command attitude hold behavior within the normal operational bounds of angle of attack. Traditional methods of piloted simulation with a representative cohort of pilots can be time consuming to set up and may not give sufficient confidence whether a departure protection scheme is effective. To address this, a unique multi-modal search using genetic algorithm is developed to verify that this command path protection is able to achieve carefree maneuvering of a fighter aircraft in its entire flight envelope. The sequence of rapid pilot control inputs is coded into a chromosome. The multi-modal genetic algorithm then uses operators like cross-over and mutation on a starting population of chromosomes to evolve new inputs sequences which are then run to obtain the aircraft response. The cost function of the genetic algorithm which is constructed from the aircraft time response is designed to favor the search for multiple maxima which drive the aircraft to departure. The open domain ADMIRE model has been used to demonstrate the approach. Results indicate that the command path design proposed in this paper can be used to protect against departure and the novel multi-modal genetic algorithm helps to verify the departure protection.
Ethernet Over Coaxial (EoC) Cable Telemetry Over High Voltage Dc And High Power Ac For Airborne Sonar Applications
Authors: G. Manoj , Ramesh R. , Kundukulam Sona O.
Published: October 2023

We have proposed a new passive component-based coupling scheme to simultaneously transmit high power AC, high voltage DC and high speed data through a long, single core coaxial cable, particularly for Airborne Sonar applications. This method is intended to replace the bulky multicore cables with single core coaxial cables that are compact and effective for transmitting data over long distances. This coupling scheme consists of three couplers to superimpose high power AC, high voltage DC and high speed data at the onboard end of the cable, and three decouplers to separate them at the remote end. The long cable, couplers, decouplers and the acoustic transducer are represented by their corresponding equivalent circuits that are cascaded together to construct the complete network. Power loss in the circuit is minimised by providing impedance matching networks in the form of a T-network transmission line and a tuning coil. The Ethernet over Coaxial (EoC) module can transmit high speed Ethernet data at the rate of 10/100 Mbps for telemetry from onboard to remote units and vice versa. DC voltages up to 300 V are coupled to the single core coaxial cable from the onboard unit and superimposed with high power AC signals and high-speed data. Passive filter-based coupling and decoupling schemes are demonstrated. Network simulation studies and experimental studies are carried out to verify and validate the equivalent circuit model. The transfer functions of each set of couplers and decouplers are determined independently as well as collectively and their effects on the underwater acoustic performance of the system are studied. The model resuls are found to agree with experiments. The proposed system is capable of generating an acoustic Source Level of about 195 dB with the supply of 125 V continuous wave (CW) AC signals, with simultaneous transmission of data at 10 Mbps and DC supply of 260 V from the on-board unit to the remote unit at the end of a coaxial cable of 200 m length. Introduction of impedance matching network is found to increase the source level by about 12 dB.
Hybrid Deep Neural Network for Data Driven Missile Guidance with Maneuvering Target
Authors: Farooq Junaid , Bazaz Mohammad Abid
Published: October 2023

Missile guidance, owing to highly complex and non-linear relative movement between the missile and its target, is a challenging problem. This is further aggravated in case of a maneuvering target which changes its own flight path while attempting to escape the incoming missile. In this study, to achieve computationally superior and accurate missile guidance, a deep learning is employed to propose a self-tuning technique for a fractional-order proportional integral derivative (FOPID) controller of a radar-guided missile chasing an intelligently maneuvering target. A multi-layer two-dimensional architecture is proposed for a deep neural network that combines the prediction feature of recurrent neural networks and estimation feature of feed-forward artificial neural networks. The proposed deep learning based missile guidance scheme is non-intrusive, data-based, and model-free wherein the parameters are optimized on-the-run while predicting the target’s maneuvering tactics to correct for processing time and loop delays of the system. Using deep learning for online optimization with minimal computational burden is the core feature of the proposed technique. Dual-core parallel simulations of missile-target dynamics and the control system were performed to demonstrate superiority of the proposed scheme in feasibility, adaptability, and the ability to effectively minimize the miss-distance in comparison with traditional and neural offline-tuned PID and FOPID based techniques. Compared to state-of-the-art offline-tuned neural control, the miss-distance was reduced by 68.42% for randomly maneuvering targets. Furthermore, a minimum miss-distance of 0.97 m was achieved for intelligently maneuvering targets for which the state-of-the-art method failed to hit the target. Overall, the proposed technique offers a novel approach for addressing the challenges of missile guidance in a computationally efficient and effective manner.
A A New Approach in Realisation of DGS Microstrip Patch Antennas With Fractal Geometry
Authors: Prasad RV Hara , Vakula Damera , Chakravarthy M
Published: October 2023

A new approach in realization of Defected Ground Structure Microstrip Patch antennas with Fractal Slots cutin the ground plane has been presented. The presented approach resulted in miniaturization of radiating patches and avoidance of multiple resonances which are prime considerations in antennas for Wi-Fi applications. A rectangular Microstrip patch is taken as a basic radiating patch. In the ground plane, square and circular slots following Sierpinski Carpet Fractal Geometry are cut resulting in Defected Ground Structure (DGS) Microstrip Patch antenna. The antenna is designed to operate at 2.4 GHz and the performance characteristics have been simulated using HFSS software. The proto-type DGS Microstrip patch antenna with square fractal slots is fabricated and tested. The measured results are in good agreement with the simulation studies. The technique has also resulted in size reduction of radiating patch compared to the standard microstrip patch antenna operating at the same frequency.
Experimental Investigation and Thermophysics Analysis of Joule Thomson Cooler Applicable to Infrared Imaging
Authors: Singhal Mayank , Kumar Rajesh , Walia RS , Pandey S. K.
Published: October 2023

Recuperative type of heat exchanger (H-E) based miniature Joule-Thomson (J-T) cooler operated in the steady-state condition is employed extensively in applications towards infrared detectors cooling, thermal imaging cameras, and homing guidance devices in a wide variety of defence projectile systems. In this study, a theoretical thermal design of recuperative H-E for determining a viable geometry using iterative methodology is discussed. A steady-state numerical analysis for the developed geometrical model of the H-E is also reported, along with the experimental studies for typical operating conditions. A custom numerical code using the Runge-Kutta method has been developed in MATLAB, and the results from the code compared with predictions of COMSOL multi-physics are in good agreement. Further, results have been validated proving the efficacy of the theoretical model and custom numerical code developed.
Technological Perspectives of Countering UAV Swarms
Authors: Nallamalli Ranjana , Singh Kulwant , Kumar Indra Deo
Published: October 2023

Conventional AD systems have been found less effective for countering UAVs and loitering munitions. Thishas necessitated the development of counter-UAV systems with different functionalities. A cluster of armed UAVsas swarm formations has further rendered the conventional AD systems far from effective, emphasizing the need to consider countering swarms as the most crucial element in new-generation aerial threat mitigation strategies. In this paper, the capabilities of UAV swarms and vital military assets exposed to such attacks are identified. To protect the vital assets from aerial swarm threats, ideal system characteristics of a counter-UAV (C-UAV) swarm system to overcome the challenges are discussed. Currently available acquisition & engagement technology is analyzed and the application of these systems to counter swarm applications is brought out. New requirements are discussed and a conceptual design of a layered system is derived which can handle a large spectrum of aerial threats including a swarm of UAVs. This system is expected to have a higher rate of engagement and can be designed with low-cost network-integrated systems.