bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Space division multiplexing metasurface for single-beam atomic magnetometers
Authors: Liu Xuejing , Tang Meiling , Hu Yanhui , Zhang Xuedian , Li Yuhan , Li Yang
Published: November 2024

A significant drive has emerged to miniaturize and integrate atomic magnetometers for various ultra-high precision quantum sensing applications, extending from laboratory research to industrial use. We introduce a novel configuration of a single-beam atomic magnetometer based on space division multiplexing (SDM), offering a promising approach to this field of research. This design utilizes a custom-designed metasurface to manipulate two generated modes, enabling the implementation of a pump-probe configuration within a single-beam atomic magnetometer. This approach achieves higher spatial resolution and reduces the system's volume. The metasurface centrally generates circularly polarized light carrying spin angular momentum, while linearly polarized light is emitted from the outer areas. This design not only enhances the miniaturization of chip-scale atomic magnetometers but also opens new avenues for exploring interactions between hot atomic spin ensembles and vector beams.
Real-time correction of light dilution effect for ship emission monitoring of SO2
Authors: Zhang Huiliang , He Weiwei , Wang Rui , Yuan Haochen , Zhang Yikang , Zhou Wei , Wu Kuijun
Published: November 2024

With the rapid development of the shipping industry, ship emissions have become a focal point in environmental protection. SO2, as a major component of ship emissions, is crucial to monitor to ensure environmental compliance. SO2-sensitive ultraviolet (UV) cameras represent an advanced emerging technology for remote sensing monitoring of ship emissions. However, as monitoring distance increases, errors in the monitoring results due to the light dilution (LD) effect rise significantly. The aim of this study is to address the LD effect in SO2 monitoring for mobile pollution sources and propose a real-time correction method. Based on the atmospheric radiative transfer model and developed data processing algorithms, the method corrects the LD effect in real-time, enhancing the accuracy and reliability of SO2 UV camera monitoring. Experimental data collected from ship emissions at Yantai port are used to validate the accuracy of the correction method. Results show that the LD effect can lead to a 60% underestimation in the monitoring results at a distance of 4 km. The proposed method effectively corrects the LD effect, improves the accuracy of the monitoring results, lays the foundation for the engineering application of UV cameras in ship exhaust monitoring, and therefore promotes the wide application of UV cameras in air quality monitoring and environmental protection.
Fiber-artefact methodology and calibration framework for Brillouin-based fiber sensing
Authors: Christensen Jesper B. , Jørgensen Asbjørn A. , Vandborg Mads H. , Thomas Peter J. , Lu Xin , Failleau Guillaume , Eisermann René , Grüner-Nielsen Lars , Balslev-Harder David , Lassen Mikael , Krenek Stephan
Published: November 2024

We propose, and demonstrate, the use of a fiber-optical measurement artefact as a metrological tool for traceable distance calibration of distributed optical fiber sensors. The constructed fiber artefact consists of a lead-in fiber coupled to a fiber loop using a 3-dB coupler and is used to calibrate both a home-build Brillouin-OTDR setup and a custom version of a commercial Brillouin-OTDR interrogator build for distributed temperature sensing. For both interrogators, we demonstrate distance calibrations with 1-meter uncertainty (k=1) in the offset length and 0.1 % (1 m/km) uncertainty (k = 1) in the distance scale factor. In addition, it is shown that the fiber artefact can be used to assess undesired distance-dependent measurement biases.
Low cross talk, low P
π silicon optical switch based on highly balanced couplers and folded phase shifters
Authors: Yang Tongxin , Zhang Enge , Zhang Shiqi , Yang Shanglin , Yang Xu , Zhang Lei
Published: November 2024

The cross talk and power consumption of the 2 × 2 optical switch is a key metric in the design of large-scale photonic integrated circuits (PICs). We build a theoretical model of a 2 × 2 Mach–Zehnder interferometer (MZI) optical switch, taking into account both imbalances in the arm loss and the coupler splitting ratio. The splitting ratio imbalance requirement for a given switch cross talk is summarized, which provides a guideline for the switch design. A 2 × 2 multimode interference (MMI) coupler design with low excess loss (<0.14 dB) and low imbalance (<0.13 dB) over the C-band is given. Its robustness to width variations up to ±40 nm is demonstrated. The 2 × 2 MZI switches with such an MMI are fabricated on a silicon-on-insulator (SOI) substrate using both electron beam (EB) and deep ultraviolet (DUV) lithography. The EB and DUV MMI switches exhibit cross talk of <−35 dB and <−30 dB over 40 nm, respectively. Folded configurations are used for both the silicon waveguides and the metal heaters to increase the power efficiency, resulting in a Pπ of ∼8 mW.
Electrically driven SWCNT for high-efficiency infrared emission based on the electron–phonon scattering effect
Authors: Han Shuqi , Mei Linyu , Zhuang Yan , Chen Jialiang , Guo Miaoli , Zhang Shengguo , Hou Liuyu , Bi Kaixi
Published: November 2024

High-performance infrared light sources have significantly influenced the fields of photonics and optoelectronics. However, achieving infrared light emission with low energy consumption, high brightness, and rapid response remains a huge challenge. Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) could be an important candidate for infrared light emitters because of their superior electron mobility and phonon transport efficiency. Here, we constructed a freestanding SWCNT emitter integrated into the PCB (printed circuit board) panel. The distinct one-dimensional (1D) subbands of SWCNTs that intersect at the Fermi energy significantly amplify electron–phonon scattering under a bias voltage. This enhancement results in outstanding infrared emission performance even in atmospheric environments. The infrared display device utilizing SWCNTs exhibits high radiation efficiency (P
i
/P
e
) of 2 × 10−3 mW. This SWCNT achieves an infrared radiation temperature of up to 468 K at 1.5 V; the response time of the rising edge is 260 ms; and the falling edge is 360 ms, with an energy consumption P
e
of 0.45 W and an optical power P
i
of 9.02 mW. The device demonstrates stable display performance over 104 endurance cycles and can run persistently for more than 14 hours. This high thermal radiation, high-speed response efficiency, and low power consumption infrared emission from SWCNTs highlight their potential for future applications in infrared light sources.
Improved digital holographic reconstruction algorithm by zeroth-order term elimination based on the Riesz transform
Authors: Shan Mingguang , Jin Qiqiang , Zhao Wanting , Zhong Zhi , Yu Lei , Liu Bin , Wang Lijing , Liu Lei
Published: November 2024

In order to address the issue of low effective bandwidth ratio in off-axis digital holography, which is caused by the impact of zeroth- and first-order terms on the first-order term, an improved digital holographic reconstruction algorithm by zeroth-order term elimination based on the Riesz transform is proposed in this paper. First, an off-axis hologram is convolved with the Riesz kernels. Then, in the spectrum, the zeroth-order term is effectively eliminated by a singularity at the origin of the Riesz kernels, which can improve the effective bandwidth ratio and make the best use of the bandwidth. Consequently, the phase with better reconstruction quality can be retrieved. Compared to traditional reconstruction algorithms, this algorithm can effectively eliminate the zeroth-order term, which allows high-resolution amplitude and phase retrieval. Finally, simulated and experimental results are presented to validate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Deployment of a transportable Yb optical lattice clock
Authors: Bothwell Tobias , Brand Wesley , Fasano Robert , Akin Thomas , Whalen Joseph , Grogan Tanner , Chen Yun-Jhih , Pomponio Marco , Nakamura Takuma , Rauf Benjamin , Baldoni Ignacio , Giunta Michele , Holzwarth Ronald , Nelson Craig , Hati Archita , Quinlan Franklyn , Fox Richard , Peil Steven , Ludlow Andrew
Published: November 2024

We report on the first deployment of a ytterbium (Yb) transportable
optical lattice clock (TOLC), commercially shipping the clock 3000 km
from Boulder, Colorado, to Washington DC. The system, composed of a
rigidly mounted optical reference cavity, an atomic physics package,
and an optical frequency comb, fully realizes an independent frequency
standard for comparisons in the optical and microwave domains. The
shipped Yb TOLC was fully operational within 2 days of arrival,
enabling frequency comparison with a rubidium (Rb) fountain at the
United States Naval Observatory (USNO). To the best of our knowledge,
this represents the first deployment of a fully independent TOLC,
including the frequency comb, coherently uniting the optical stability
of the Yb TOLC to the microwave output of the Rb fountain.
Magnetic field dependence of V
B− defects in hexagonal boron nitride
Authors: Zheng Mulin , Ale Shizhuo , Chen Peiqin , Tu Jingpu , Zhou Qiang , Song Haizhi , Wang You , Wang Junfeng , Guo Guangcan , Deng Guangwei
Published: November 2024

The interface with spin defects in hexagonal boron nitride has recently become a promising platform and has shown great potential in a wide range of quantum technologies. Varieties of spin properties of V
B
− defects in hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) have been researched widely and deeply, like their structure and coherent control. However, little is known about the influence of off-axis magnetic fields on the coherence properties of V
B
− defects in hBN. Here, by using optically detected magnetic resonance (ODMR) spectroscopy, we systematically investigated the variations in ODMR resonance frequencies under different transverse and longitudinal external magnetic fields. In addition, we measured the ODMR spectra under off-axis magnetic fields of constant strength but various angles and observed that the splitting of the resonance frequencies decreases as the angle increases, aligning with our theoretical calculation based on the Hamiltonian, from which we came up with a solution of detecting the off-axis magnetic field angle. Through Rabi oscillation measurements, we found that the off-axis magnetic field suppresses the spin coherence time. These results are crucial for optimizing V
B
− defects in hBN, establishing their significance as robust quantum sensors for quantum information processing and magnetic sensing in varied environments.
Single-shot, multi-point remote gas sensing by a linearly chirped laser pulse
Authors: Lou Xiutao , Yuan Ziyue , Wang Ruogu , Xu Ning , Dong Yongkang
Published: November 2024

We present a spectroscopic method that employs a single linearly chirped laser pulse (LCLP) generated by external modulation to realize long-distance multi-point gas sensing. Even without frequency-chirping calibration, accurate single-shot spectral measurement is rendered possible by the high linearity of intrapulse chirping (linearity error of ∼10−4). Utilizing the LCLP’s built-in capacity of time-division-multiplexing, high measurement sensitivity is guaranteed by introducing a multichannel intensity noise compensation mechanism. As proof of concept, this method is experimentally demonstrated by three acetylene gas sensing nodes using an LCLP of 100-ns pulse width and 20-GHz chirping range, achieving a time resolution of 280 µs with 90-ppm sensitivity and a spatial resolution of 25 m over a 25-km sensing distance. Having the advantages of high time resolution, high spatial resolution, and accurate spectral measurement, our proposed method promotes a novel, to the best of our knowledge, way of developing spectroscopic gas sensing systems for challenging applications where spatially resolved gas analysis with fast response over a long distance is required.
George Gomori’s Contributions to Diabetes Research and the Origins of the Journal of Histochemistry and Cytochemistry
Authors: Baskin Denis G.
Published: November 2024

Over a period of almost 30 years, Gomori was one of the most prolific and productive investigators in the emerging field of enzyme histochemistry and was recognized by his peers as a pioneer in developing methods for the histochemical demonstration of hydrolytic enzyme activity, most notably phosphatases, esterases, and lipases. Gomori also made important contributions to diabetes research by developing histological techniques that reliably stained the insulin-secreting B cell of the pancreatic islets of Langerhans. Gomori’s aldehyde fuchsin staining method was standard for pathological and physiological studies on islet B cells in relation to diabetes and obesity until insulin antibodies became widely available for immunohistochemical identification of B cells. Gomori was a founding member of The Histochemical Society in 1950. When the HCS established the Journal of Histochemistry and Cytochemistry in 1953, Gomori served as one of the first Associate Editors. He also served as President of The Histochemical Society.
Presynaptic cAMP-PKA-mediated potentiation induces reconfiguration of synaptic vesicle pools and channel-vesicle coupling at hippocampal mossy fiber boutons
Authors: Kim Olena , Okamoto Yuji , Kaufmann Walter A. , Brose Nils , Shigemoto Ryuichi , Jonas Peter
Published: November 2024

It is widely believed that information storage in neuronal circuits involves nanoscopic structural changes at synapses, resulting in the formation of synaptic engrams. However, direct evidence for this hypothesis is lacking. To test this conjecture, we combined chemical potentiation, functional analysis by paired pre-postsynaptic recordings, and structural analysis by electron microscopy (EM) and freeze-fracture replica labeling (FRL) at the rodent hippocampal mossy fiber synapse, a key synapse in the trisynaptic circuit of the hippocampus. Biophysical analysis of synaptic transmission revealed that forskolin-induced chemical potentiation increased the readily releasable vesicle pool size and vesicular release probability by 146% and 49%, respectively. Structural analysis of mossy fiber synapses by EM and FRL demonstrated an increase in the number of vesicles close to the plasma membrane and the number of clusters of the priming protein Munc13-1, indicating an increase in the number of both docked and primed vesicles. Furthermore, FRL analysis revealed a significant reduction of the distance between Munc13-1 and CaV2.1 Ca2+ channels, suggesting reconfiguration of the channel-vesicle coupling nanotopography. Our results indicate that presynaptic plasticity is associated with structural reorganization of active zones. We propose that changes in potential nanoscopic organization at synaptic vesicle release sites may be correlates of learning and memory at a plastic central synapse.
A dynamical systems model for the total fission rate in Drp1-dependent mitochondrial fission
Authors: Leinheiser Anna K. , Mitchell Colleen C. , Rooke Ethan , Strack Stefan , Grueter Chad E.
Published: November 2024

Mitochondrial hyperfission in response to cellular insult is associated with reduced energy production and programmed cell death. Thus, there is a critical need to understand the molecular mechanisms coordinating and regulating the complex process of mitochondrial fission. We develop a nonlinear dynamical systems model of dynamin related protein one (Drp1)-dependent mitochondrial fission and use it to identify parameters which can regulate the total fission rate (TFR) as a function of time. The TFR defined from a nondimensionalization of the model undergoes a Hopf bifurcation with bifurcation parameter μ = k + M k - where M is the total concentration of mitochondrial fission factor (Mff) and k+ and k− are the association and dissociation rate constants between oligomers on the outer mitochondrial membrane. The variable μ can be thought of as the maximum build rate over the disassembling rate of oligomers. Though the nondimensionalization of the system results in four dimensionless parameters, we found the TFR and the cumulative total fission (TF) depend strongly on only one, μ. Interestingly, the cumulative TF does not monotonically increase as μ increases. Instead it increases with μ to a certain point and then begins to decrease as μ continues to increase. This non-monotone dependence on μ suggests interventions targeting k+, k−, or M may have a non-intuitive impact on the fission mechanism. Thus understanding the impact of regulatory parameters, such as μ, may assist future therapeutic target selection.
Simplified internal models in human control of complex objects
Authors: Bazzi Salah , Stansfield Stephan , Hogan Neville , Sternad Dagmar
Published: November 2024

Humans are skillful at manipulating objects that possess nonlinear underactuated dynamics, such as clothes or containers filled with liquids. Several studies suggested that humans implement a predictive model-based strategy to control such objects. However, these studies only considered unconstrained reaching without any object involved or, at most, linear mass-spring systems with relatively simple dynamics. It is not clear what internal model humans develop of more complex objects, and what level of granularity is represented. To answer these questions, this study examined a task where participants physically interacted with a nonlinear underactuated system mimicking a cup of sloshing coffee: a cup with a ball rolling inside. The cup and ball were simulated in a virtual environment and subjects interacted with the system via a haptic robotic interface. Participants were instructed to move the system and arrive at a target region with both cup and ball at rest, ‘zeroing out’ residual oscillations of the ball. This challenging task affords a solution known as ‘input shaping’, whereby a series of pulses moves the dynamic object to the target leaving no residual oscillations. Since the timing and amplitude of these pulses depend on the controller’s internal model of the object, input shaping served as a tool to identify the subjects’ internal representation of the cup-and-ball. Five simulations with different internal models were compared against the human data. Results showed that the features in the data were correctly predicted by a simple internal model that represented the cup-and-ball as a single rigid mass coupled to the hand impedance. These findings provide evidence that humans use simplified internal models along with mechanical impedance to manipulate complex objects.
The impact of tax burden on welfare attitudes: Micro evidence from welfare states
Authors: Guo Yinan , Gong Ting
Published: November 2024

The attitudes of the general public with regard to social welfare are of crucial importance in determining the efficacy and stability of a nation’s welfare system. The manner in which taxation is employed as a means of funding mechanism for welfare policies is of great consequence. Nevertheless, existing research on the subject of welfare attitudes has largely neglected the tax perspective, underscoring the need for investigations that bridge this gap and provide a more comprehensive understanding of the intertwined dynamics between taxation and public perception of social benefits. This study investigates the influence of tax burdens on attitudes towards welfare using an ordered probit model applied to data from the 2019 International Social Survey Program (ISSP 2019 Social Inequality V), encompassing 11 welfare states. Our key findings are as follows: (1) Empirical analysis reveals that a moderate tax burden correlates with a reduction in public expectations regarding governmental responsibility for welfare provision. (2) Heterogeneity analysis elucidates a negative association between tax burdens and welfare attitudes across diverse welfare regimes. (3) The mediating effect test suggests that perceptions of social fairness partially mediate the relationship between tax burdens and welfare attitudes. (4) The moderating effect test indicates that government efficacy negatively moderates the impact of tax burden on welfare attitudes. This study offers insightful perspectives for policymakers aiming to design and implement tax systems that align effectively with societal structures.
Carotenoid composition and sequestration in cassava (Manihot esculentum Crantz) roots
Authors: Drapal Margit , Ovalle Rivera Tatiana M. , Becerra Lopez-Lavalle Luis Augusto , Fraser Paul D.
Published: November 2024

Cassava (Manihot esculentum Crantz) is a staple food source for many developing countries. Its edible roots are high in starch but lack micronutrients such as β-carotene. In the present study, analysis of pedigree breeding populations has led to the identification of cassava accessions with enhanced β-carotene contents up to 40 μg/g DW. This represents 0.2% of the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for vitamin A. The β-branch of the carotenoid pathway predominates in cassava roots, with dominant levels of β-carotene followed by other minor epoxides of β-ring derived carotenoids. Metabolomic analysis revealed that steady state levels of intermediary metabolism were not altered by the formation of carotenoids, similar to starch and carbohydrate levels. Apocarotenoids appeared to be independent of their carotenoid precursors. Lipidomic analysis provided evidence of a significant positive correlation between carotenoid and lipid content, in particular plastid specific galactolipids. Proteomic analysis of isolated amyloplasts identified the majority of proteins associated with translation and carbohydrate/starch biosynthesis (e.g. glucose-1-phosphate adenylyltransferase). No carotenoid related proteins were detected even in the highest carotenoid containing lines. Carotenoids were associated with fractions typically annotated as plastoglobuli and plastid membranes (particularly the envelope). Proteomic analysis confirmed these structures apart from plastoglobuli, thus potentially amyloplast structures may not contain classical plastoglobuli structures.
Mechanical properties and energy evolution law of marble under the coupled effects of chemical corrosion and dry-wet cycles
Authors: Liu Yongsheng , Zhai Maolin , Liu Wang
Published: November 2024

The main factors affecting the safety of underground structures are groundwater chemical corrosion and water level fluctuations. To investigate the mechanical properties of marble and the energy evolution pattern during the failure process under the coupled effects of chemical corrosion and dry-wet cycling, samples were subjected to 5, 10 and 20 cycles of dry-wet ageing in chemical solutions with pH values of 4, 7 and 10, respectively, followed by mechanical property testing. The energy evolution pattern during the failure process of the specimens was also studied. It was found that there is a strong correlation between number of dry-wet cycles and pH value of chemical solution. Chemical corrosion at the early stage of dry-wet cycling has the greatest effect on the deterioration of the rock. As the number of dry-wet cycles increases, the degree of corrosion in acidic solutions is most evident, with the uniaxial compressive strength and elastic modulus decreasing by 27.88% and 33.52% respectively, followed by alkaline solutions, and the degree of corrosion in neutral solutions is the lowest. In addition, dry-wet cycling and chemical corrosion lead to an increase in the internal pores of the rock samples and a decrease in the energy storage capacity. Nevertheless, the proportion of energy loss increases with the number of dry and wet cycles, with the proportion of energy loss in acidic media increasing from 35.61% to 41.63%, indicating that the plastic deformability of marble increases under the action of chemical corrosion and dry and wet cycles. The research results have certain guiding significance for the design, construction and maintenance reinforcement of underground structures under the conditions of chemical corrosion and dry-wet cycling.
SARS-CoV-2 surveillance in US wastewater: Leading indicators and data variability analysis in 2023–2024
Authors: Schenk Hannes , Rauch Wolfgang , Zulli Alessandro , Boehm Alexandria B.
Published: November 2024

Wastewater-Based Epidemiology (WBE) has become a powerful tool for assessing disease occurrence in communities. This study investigates the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) epidemic in the United States during 2023–2024 using wastewater data from 189 wastewater treatment plants in 40 states and the District of Columbia. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and pepper-mild mottle virus normalized SARS-CoV-2 RNA concentration data were compared with COVID-19 hospitalization admission data at both national and state levels. We further investigate temporal features in wastewater viral RNA abundance, with peak timing and cross-correlation lag analyses indicating that wastewater SARS-CoV-2 RNA concentrations precede hospitalization admissions by 2 to 12 days. Lastly, we demonstrate that wastewater treatment plant size has a significant effect on the variability of measured SARS-CoV-2 RNA concentrations. This study highlights the effectiveness of WBE as a non-invasive, timely and resource-efficient disease monitoring strategy, especially in the context of declining COVID-19 clinical reporting.
The blast pathogen effector AVR-Pik binds and stabilizes rice heavy metal-associated (HMA) proteins to co-opt their function in immunity
Authors: Oikawa Kaori , Fujisaki Koki , Shimizu Motoki , Takeda Takumi , Nemoto Keiichiro , Saitoh Hiromasa , Hirabuchi Akiko , Hiraka Yukie , Miyaji Naomi , Białas Aleksandra , Langner Thorsten , Kellner Ronny , Bozkurt Tolga O , Cesari Stella , Kroj Thomas , Banfield Mark J , Kamoun Sophien , Terauchi Ryohei
Published: November 2024

Intracellular nucleotide-binding domain and leucine-rich repeat-containing (NLR) receptors play crucial roles in immunity across multiple domains of life. In plants, a subset of NLRs contain noncanonical integrated domains that are thought to have evolved from host targets of pathogen effectors to serve as pathogen baits. However, the functions of host proteins with similarity to NLR integrated domains and the extent to which they are targeted by pathogen effectors remain largely unknown. Here, we show that the blast fungus effector AVR-Pik binds a subset of related rice proteins containing a heavy metal-associated (HMA) domain, one of the domains that has repeatedly integrated into plant NLR immune receptors. We find that AVR-Pik binding stabilizes the rice small HMA (sHMA) proteins OsHIPP19 and OsHIPP20. Knockout of OsHIPP20 causes enhanced disease resistance towards the blast pathogen, indicating that OsHIPP20 is a susceptibility gene (S-gene). We propose that AVR-Pik has evolved to bind HMA domain proteins and co-opt their function to suppress immunity. Yet this binding carries a trade-off, it triggers immunity in plants carrying NLR receptors with integrated HMA domains.
Navigating well-being through shoreline walking as artistic practice
Authors: Lin Ching-Chiu , Wang Quincy Q.
Published: November 2024

This visual essay explores the intersection of walking, art-making and well-being, documented over six months of biweekly walks along the shoreline of Burrard Inlet in Port Moody, British Columbia, Canada. Engaging with the intertwined paths of movement and artistic expression, the authors delve into a reflective practice that harmonizes the act of walking with the pursuit of emotional well-being. The journey unfolds as a correspondence – with one another, with the environment, and with one’s inner selves – facilitated by the rhythmic interplay of footsteps, sketches and photographs. This evolving narrative interweaves individual experiences with collective stories, showcasing walking as an embodied practice that fosters resilience and adaptability. By immersing themselves in the shoreline’s literal and metaphorical landscape, the authors uncover a dynamic way to understand and enhance well-being, indicating a holistic strategy to navigate the complexities of life.
Perbandingan Ekstraksi Fitur Untuk Klasifikasi COVID-19, MERS, dan SARS Menggunakan Algoritma Extreme Learning Machine
Authors: Zahroh Khofifah Auliyatuz , Dian Candra Rini Novitasari  , Lutfi Hakim
Published: November 2024

Pada tahun 2019, terjadi kemunculan suatu wabah penyakit COVID-19. Wabah penyakit tersebut telah mengguncang dunia sehingga menyebabkan pandemi secara global. Selain COVID-19, terdapat dua wabah penyakit lain juga diakibatkan oleh virus corona yaitu MERS (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome) dan SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) yang sudah menjadi ancaman serius pada beberapa dekade terakhir. Ketiga wabah penyakit tersebut menyebabkan jutaan kasus serta ribuan orang yang meninggal di seluruh dunia. Berdasarkan permasalahan tersebut, perlu adanya penelitian yang dilakukan untuk klasifikasi penyakit COVID-19, MERS, dan SARS berdasarkan hasil pemeriksaan X-ray menggunakan perbandingan ekstraksi fitur GLCM (Gray Level Co-occurrence Matrix) dan GLDM (Gray Level Difference Matrix) serta klasifikasi ELM (Extreme Learning Machine). Pada penelitian ini menggunakan beberapa parameter uji coba diantaranya yaitu arah sudut, jumlah  pada k-fold, serta jumlah hidden node. Hasil terbaik pada penelitian ini diperoleh menggunakan metode ekstraksi fitur GLDM dengan uji coba pada sudut , k-fold 10, serta hidden node 25 yang menghasilkan akurasi, sensitivitas, dan spesifisitas masing-masing sebesar 100% dengan waktu yang dibutuhkan yaitu 0.00042 detik. Sehingga, dapat disimpulkan bahwa hasil ekstraksi fitur GLDM lebih unggul daripada ekstraksi fitur GLCM.
Analisis Sensitivitas Model Penularan Koinfeksi COVID-19 dan HIV/AIDS
Authors: Harianto Joko , Abraham  , Kawuwung Westy B.
Published: November 2024

Penularan koinfeksi COVID-19 dan HIV/AIDS merupakan masalah kesehatan masyarakat yang menjadi pusat perhatian terutama di negara-negara berkembang di dunia. Artikel ini merupakan salah satu kajian untuk mempelajari kejadian penularan koinfeksi COVID-19 dan HIV/AIDS.  Model yang digunakan terdiri dari delapan kompartemen antara lain: rentan, vaksinasi, COVID-19, infeksi COVID-19, infeksi HIV, AIDS, koinfeksi COVID-19 dan HIV, koinfeksi COVID-19 dan AIDS.  Analisis kestabilan titik ekuilibrium model dan kontrol optimalnya telah dibahas sebelumnya. Hasil dari analisis tersebut digunakan sebagai landasan teori untuk melakukan analisis sensitivitas parameter modelnya. Oleh karena itu, tujuan penelitian ini adalah menentukan parameter model yang paling sensitif terhadap kasus penularan koinfeksi COVID-19 dan HIV/AIDS. Metode studi literatur digunakan untuk mendukung analisis sensitivitas parameter model. Simulasi modelnya menggunakan software Maple dengan data sekunder. Parameter laju kontak COVID-19, laju kontak HIV, laju kesembuhan infeksi COVID-19 dan angka kematian akibat AIDS merupakan parameter yang paling sensitif terhadap kasus penularan koinfeksi COVID-19 dan HIV/AIDS. Parameter laju kontak COVID-19 dan laju kontak HIV adalah parameter yang paling sensitif terhadap peningkatan kasus penularan koinfeksi COVID-19 dan HIV/AIDS karena nilai indeks sensitivitasnya tertinggi dibandingkan parameter lainnya. Sedangkan, parameter laju kesembuhan infeksi COVID-19 dan angka kematian akibat AIDS memiliki nilai indeks sensitivitas terendah dibandingkan parameter lainnya. Parameter laju kesembuhan infeksi COVID-19 dan angka kematian akibat AIDS adalah parameter yang paling sensitif terhadap penurunan kasus penularan koinfeksi COVID-19 dan HIV/AIDS.
Exploring genetic variability and trait relationships in Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera Dunal L.) for improved yield
Authors: Gopinath P , Saraswathi T  , Manivel P , Visalakshi M , Santhanakrishnan VP , Kumaresan M , Sheshu MM
Published: November 2024

This study estimated genetic variability and interrelationship among traits in 50 genotypes of Indian Ashwagandha, with the objective of identifying superior genotypes for improvement. Significant differences (p < 0.01) among genotypes were observed for 12 morphological and yield-related traits. High heritability estimates (>90 %) were coupled with high genetic advance as % of the mean (>40 %) for most traits. The highest genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation (106.143 % and 106.548 % respectively) and a genetic advance as a % of the mean of 217.823 % were recorded for root dry weight per plant. Root dry weight was strongly positively correlated with root fresh weight, root diameter and root length. Seed yield was positively correlated with berry dry weight and traits related to branching, but negatively correlated to root dry weight, suggesting a trade-off between seed and root production. Root fresh weight is the primary contributor to root dry weight. Cluster analysis grouped the genotypes into four clusters, with Cluster 2 showing the maximum potential for improvement in Ashwagandha root yield. The first three principal components explained 85.58 % of the total variation; PC1 primarily explained root-related traits, while PC2 explained branching and reproductive traits. In the chemical quality analysis of eight genotypes in Cluster 2, the germplasm WS 2 (IC - 0604214-X) exhibited the highest withaferin A (0.318 %), alongside moderate biochemical characteristics such as fiber, carbohydrate and protein content. This study provides valuable insights in developing breeding strategies to enhance economically important traits in Ashwagandha but also calls highlights the challenges involved in simultaneously improving both root and seed yield.
Das Startup-Förderökosystem in Norddeutschland (The Startup Funding Ecosystem in Northern Germany)
Authors: Denk Janis , Clement Michel , Hammerschmidt Maik , Winterberg Nils , Peperhowe Jan-Philipp , Wiesel Thorsten
Published: November 2024

Startups sind von zentraler Bedeutung zur Lösung der wirtschaftlichen Herausforderungen unserer Zeit. Allerdings scheitern die meisten Startups in ihrem Entwicklungsprozess. Studien zeigen die Bedeutung der Einbindung von Startups in ein Förderökosystem, um Zugang zu kritischen Ressourcen zu erhalten und ihre Erfolgschancen zu steigern. Jedoch sind die Strukturen der Förderökosysteme häufig unübersichtlich. Die vorliegende Studie fasst die Förderangebote für Startups in Norddeutschland zusammen und liefert eine vergleichende Analyse über die verschiedenen einbezogenen Bundesländer. Insgesamt wurden in Norddeutschland 2.325 Akteure sowie 248 gründungsfördernde Events identifiziert. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass sich die Bundesländer im Hinblick auf die Förderintensität und -effizienz, die Charakteristika der Akteure und deren bereitgestellten Förderangebote sowie weiterer makroökonomischer Kriterien deutlich unterscheiden. Die Ergebnisse schaffen Transparenz für Akteure im norddeutschen Startup-Förderökosystem und ermöglichen es, die Attraktivität eines Bundeslandes für Startups zu bewerten und potenzielle Verbesserungsbedarfe für Entscheidungsträger aus Politik, Wirtschaft und Wissenschaft zu identifizieren. Startups are crucial for addressing the economic challenges of our time. However, most startups fail in their development process. Studies highlight the importance of integrating startups into their ecosystem to gain access to critical resources and increase the chance for long-term success. However, the structures of these funding ecosystems are often complex. This study provides a structured overview of the funding opportunities for startups in Northern Germany as well as a comparative analysis across federal states. In total, 2,325 stakeholders and 248 startup-supporting events were identified in Northern Germany. The results reveal disparities among federal states in terms of funding efficiency, stakeholder characteristics, and their funding programs besides macroeconomic differences. The findings enhance transparency for actors in the northern German startup funding ecosystem, enabling them to evaluate the attractiveness of a federal state for startups, and highlight improvement potential for decision-makers in policy, business, and science.
Using trees to monitor airborne Cr pollution: Effects of compass direction and woody species on Cr uptake during phytoremediation
Authors: Ozturk Pulatoglu Ayse , Koç İsmail , Özel Halil Barış , Şevik Hakan , Yıldız Yafes
Published: November 2024

Among the heavy metals (HMs) whose concentrations in natural environments have risen considerably in the last era, chromium (Cr) is one of the most toxic. Because of the risks it poses to human and environmental health, it is of great importance to screen the variation in Cr contamination in the atmosphere and decrease the pollution. This study aimed to determine the proper tree species that can be used to monitor and reduce Cr contamination. For this aim, studies were conducted on Tilia tomentosa, Robinia pseudoacacia, Cedrus atlantica, Pseudotsuga menziesii, and Fraxinus excelsior species growing in Düzce, which is among the 5 most contaminated European towns according to the World Air Pollution report. Samples taken from these trees were examined, and changes in Cr concentration depending on species, organs, compass direction, and age range in the last 60 years were evaluated. Results indicated higher Cr pollution in recent years, consistent with higher traffic density, but that there was no consistent effect of compass direction. It was also determined that the tree species most appropriate for screening the variation in Cr contamination in the airborne were Tilia tomentosa, and the most appropriate species for decreasing pollution were Robinia pseudoacacia and Cedrus atlantica.
The Italian Question in the “Foreign Events” of the Weekly “Grazhdanin” (“The Citizen”): F. M. Dostoevsky on Vatican Policy
Authors: Dergacheva Irina
Published: November 2024

The article provides an analysis of texts by F. M. Dostoevsky, in which he as editor and author of the “Foreign Events” column in the weekly “The Citizen” analyzed desperate attempts of the Roman pontiff Pius 9th to regain the secular power in the young Italian kingdom, which he had lost in 1870. The writer’s complex attitude towards Italian Old Catholics is considered against the background of their dialogue with the Holy Synod and the coverage of the Correspondence of the Prior of the Roman Embassy Church Archimandrite Alexander with Metropolitan Isador, the first Metropolitan of the Holy Synod. On the one hand, Dostoevsky appreciates the old Catholics’ intention to pass into the jurisdiction of the Orthodox Church, on the other hand, he sympathizes with the persecuted Catholic clerics. Describing their attempts to restore the secular power of Pius 9th, Dostoevsky links their actions with the pontiff’s claim to world domination, about whose danger he warns as emphatically in the weekly as in his works, comparing his attack to the Apocalypse, and his very identity with the Antichrist. According to the writer, France’s support for the politics and the papal throne of Pius 9th holds a threat of a military clash between France and Germany.
Limiting possibilities of detecting cracks in ferromagnetic structures through an anti-corrosion coating using a smartphone based eddy current flaw detector
Authors:   Karpenko Physico-Mechanical Institute of the NAS of Ukraine, Uchanin V. M.
Published: November 2024

Detection of cracks in ferromagnetic steel structures by the eddy current method is often limited by additional noise associated with magnetic and structural heterogeneity, especially when it is necessary to detect structural cracks through a layer of dielectric anti-corrosion coating. A promissing approach to problem solution is based on the use of selective eddy current probes, which include the eddy current probes of double differential type. One of the features of such eddy current is the possibility of detecting hidden defects even through a layer of dielectric anti-corrosion coating. In this paper, the limiting possibilities of crack detection using an improved low-frequency eddy current probe of double-differential type with a diameter of 15 mm and a smartphone based eddy current flaw detector were investigated. This probe provides a high depth of penetration necessary to detect defects under the dielectric coating. The greater depth of penetration of this probe is achieved by increasing the diameter of the windings, the distance between them and the number of turns. The research was carried out using a rectangular specimen, in which a large crack (or through wall structure fracture) was simulated by a joint of two identical polished rectangular parts. The assembled specimen was covered with dielectric plates of different thicknesses up to 25 mm thick to simulate anti-corrosion coating of different thicknesses. It is shown, in particular, the possibility of detecting large cracks or structural fractures through an anti-corrosion dielectric coating up to 25 mm thick. The principle of design of an eddy current flaw detector based on a smartphone using the EddySmart application, which can provide remote control of ferromagnetic steel structures with wireless transmission of inspection results via mobile communication channels and the use of autonomous automated scanners, is considered.
Local image contrast enhancement based on power model of visual image perception
Authors:   Karpenko Physico-Mechanical Institute of the NAS of Ukraine, Vorobel R. A. , Berehulyak O. R. ,   Karpenko Physico-Mechanical Institute of the NAS of Ukraine, Ivasenko I. B. ,   Karpenko Physico-Mechanical Institute of the NAS of Ukraine,   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Mandziy T. S. ,   Karpenko Physico-Mechanical Institute of the NAS of Ukraine
Published: November 2024

The analysis of models of light perception by humans, which serve as the basis for building methods for improving the quality of images by enhancing their local contrasts, was carried out. It is shown that the expression for determining local contrast is the basis for building an algorithm for image quality improvement. Three types of local contrast are highlighted, in particular absolute, relative and weighted, and the technology of building a method of image quality enhancement using them is illustrated. A new method of image quality improvement, which is based on the power dependence of the response of the human visual system to light excitation, is described. The experimental study of its effectiveness, illustrated and confirmed by image quality assessment, is carried out.
Assessing the Effectiveness of Professional Development Programmes Focused on Environmental Education for Basic Science and Technology Teachers in Central Senatorial Zone, Plateau State, Nigeria.
Authors:   Department of Integrated Science, Federal College of Education, Pankshin, Plateau State, Nigeria., Dung Mohammed Dauda
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the effectiveness of professional development programs focused on environmental education for Basic Science and Technology (BST) teachers in the Central Senatorial Zone of Plateau State, Nigeria. The research employs a descriptive survey design, with a sample size comprising 200 BST teachers and 400 students from selected secondary schools. Data were collected through questionnaires and analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics, including Pearson’s correlation and Chi-square tests. The findings reveal significant improvements in teachers’ knowledge and teaching practices related to environmental education post-training, alongside a notable increase in students’ environmental stewardship behaviors. The results underscore the critical role of professional development in enhancing educators’ competencies and fostering a proactive environmental mindset among students. Recommendations for future training initiatives, curriculum integration, and collaborative efforts with environmental organizations are provided. This study contributes valuable insights into the intersection of teacher training and environmental education, emphasizing the importance of equipping educators with the necessary skills to promote sustainable practices in the classroom
Primary School Handicraft: Public Schools Waste to Wealth in Plateau State, Nigeria
Authors:   Primary Education Department Federal College of Education, Pankshin, Mulak Wul’an N.K. , Hemba Grace , Kayode Ajere
Published: November 2024

This paper focuses on primary school handicraft: public schools waste to wealth in Plateau State, Nigeria. The design adopted for this research work is the survey research design. The sample population of this study was 4653 teachers and 186 primary teachers, selected by the researcher out of the population, under study, the hypotheses were tested using t-test statistical tool, and probability of retaining or rejecting the hypotheses is P≤0.05.; craft produced was not taught in primary school, indicates that traditional crafts was not taught in primary schools. The item-by-item analysis shows that items 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11 with mean values ranges from 1.19 1.20, 1.28, 1.22 and 1.19 are traditional crafts rated not taught, while item 6 with mean value of 1.76 was traditional crafts rated taught. The study recommends among others that Adequate provisions should be made by both the Federal Government, State, Local and private organizations to provide the required facilities for effective teaching and learning of craft and skill education for national development.
Chemical profile, biological activities, and molecular docking of Algerian Juniperus phoenicea berries
Authors: Bouchareb Abderrezak , Djemel Abdelhak , Kadi Imededdine , Djemoui Amar , Bensouici Chawki , Atanassova Maria , Zoukel Abdelhalim , Benmohamed Mokhtar , Ahmad Sheikh F. , Attia Sabry M. , Benaceur Farouk , Zahnit Wafa , Messaoudi Mohammed
Published: November 2024

The chemical composition, antioxidant activities, and α-amylase enzyme inhibitory activity of Algerian Juniperus phoenicea L berries were quantitatively and qualitatively determined in this study. Essential oil (EO) and non-polar crude extracts from cyclohexane and ethyl acetate were prepared, and the chemical profile was determined using GC-MS technique. The predominant compound in the EO was α-pinene (76.03%), while communic acid (23.66% and 22.38%) was the main compound in both non-polar crude extracts. The antioxidant potential of the samples was evaluated using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,20-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonicacid)-diammonium salt (ABTS), and phenanthroline. All samples showed weak antioxidant capacity. The antidiabetic effect was assessed in vitro using the α-amylase assay; a strong inhibitory effect against the α-amylase enzyme was detected for both cyclohexane and ethyl acetate extracts with IC50 (IC50 = 186.91 ± 5.74 mg/mL and IC50 = 351.48 ± 0.17 mg/mL, respectively). Finally, an in silico study was performed for both α-amylase and α-glucosidase proteins to enhance our outcomes.
The Intergenerational Effects of Parental Incarceration
Authors: Grönqvist Hans , Niknami Susan , Palme Mårten , Priks Mikael
Published: November 2024

We estimate the causal effects of parental incarceration on children’s short- and long-run outcomes using administrative data from Sweden. Our empirical strategy exploits exogenous variation in parental incarceration from the random assignment of criminal defendants to judges with different incarceration tendencies. We find that the incarceration of a parent in childhood leads to a significant increase in teen criminal convictions, a decrease in high school graduation, and worse labor market outcomes in adulthood. The effects are concentrated among children from disadvantaged families, in particular families where the remaining non-convicted parentis disadvantaged. These results suggest that the incarceration of parents with young children may significantly increase the intergenerational persistence of poverty and criminal behavior in affluent countries with extensive social safety nets and progressive criminal justice systems.