bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A robust multi-chaotic remote sensing image encryption scheme based on RNA and immune algorithms
Authors: Li Guoyan , Xu Qianqian , Gao Lin
Published: January 2024

Remote sensing images have been widely used in the military and other areas because of their rich perceptional data. This makes their visual security critical for practical usage. To address this challenge, an enhanced image encryption scheme is proposed. In the scrambling phase, n bands of remote sensing images undergo Arnold double-bit-level permutation. This reduces not only the pixel correlation in each image plane but also between each frequency band.To enhance security, an RNA crossover rule (RNACMO) is introduced. The RNA image is divided into RNA single strands of different lengths using chaotic sequences, and different crossover methods, including single-point and uniform, are adaptively selected according to the number of RNA single strands. RNACMO significantly improves the security level of the scheme. An improved immune algorithm (IIA) is exploited to optimize chaotic function sequences, which improves the chaotic property of the scheme. In experiments, the proposed algorithm achieves average values of 99.6094% for NPCR, 33.4635% for UACI, and 26.7712% for BACI in encrypted remote sensing images, indicating stronger security and better resilience against attacks compared with other encryption algorithms for remote sensing images.
Analysis of anode surface roughness influence on heaterless hollow cathode discharge
Authors: Hsieh Jordan H , Huang Ping-Han , Huang Yi-Lung , Juwantono Heri , Li Yueh-Heng
Published: January 2024

This research delves into the influence of cylindrical and planar anode surface roughness on heaterless hollow cathode discharge characteristics. Three surface roughness levels, Ra 1.6 μm, Ra 3.2 μm, and Ra 6.4 μm, along the cylindrical anode’s azimuthal direction and the planar anode’s radial direction, have been selected and modified by the machining process. A central finding is the correlation between the discharge voltage and anode surface roughness. As the roughness increases, cylindrical and planar anodes require less discharge voltage to sustain the primary discharge. This reduction is likely due to the enhanced surface area from the roughness, which aids in electron current collection. The discharge voltage oscillations appear inversely related to the surface roughness of planar anodes, which may be associated with changes in the neutral gas density gradient between the planar anode and the cathode. In contrast, cylindrical anodes show fewer effects from their surface roughness, likely due to the distinct neutral gas flow dynamics. These findings offer insights into standardizing hollow cathode testing and allow future research to explore these interactions more deeply.
Two-particle Hadamard walk on dynamically percolated line and circle
Authors: Parýzková M , Štefaňák M , Novotný J , Kollár B , Kiss T
Published: January 2024

Asymptotic dynamics of a Hadamard walk of two non-interacting quantum particles on a dynamically percolated finite line or a circle is investigated. We construct a basis of the attractor space of the corresponding random-unitary dynamics and prove the completeness of our solution. In comparison to the one-particle case, the structure of the attractor space is much more complex, resulting in intriguing asymptotic dynamics. General results are illustrated on two examples. First, for circles of length not divisible by 4 the boundary conditions reduces the number of attractors considerably, allowing for fully analytic solution. Second, we investigate line of length 4 and determine the asymptotic cycle of reduced coin states and position distributions, focusing on the correlations between the two particles. Our results show that a random unitary evolution, which is a combination of quantum dynamics and a classical stochasticity, leads to correlations between initially uncorrelated particles. This is not possible for purely unitary evolution of non-interacting quantum particles. The shared dynamically percolated graph can thus be considered as a weak form of interaction.
A lightweight multi-target ship tracking model based on Yolov7
Authors: Cen Jian , Chen Jia-Hao , Liu Xi , Li Jia-Xi , Li Hai-Sheng , Huang Wei-Sheng , Kang Jun-Xi
Published: January 2024

Ship multi-target tracking has long been a topic that has attracted researchers from different fields. Currently, the following challenges still exist in ship multi-target tracking. Ships obscuring each other leads to an increase in misdetections and omissions in the algorithm. Some algorithms have a large number of parameters and computations, which are not favourable for deployment into devices. As a result, we present a novel multi-target tracking technique that combines the Yolov7 detector with Kalman filtering. First, the retrieval of fine ship details in the video is accomplished by employing the CNNS(Convolutional Neural Networks) + Transformer + CNNS architecture. Second, we introduce a novel lightweight module known as Light-SPP, which aims to integrate ship features. Finally, Wise-iou Loss, which increases the predictability of ship position, is shown as the detector’s localization loss function. The experimental results show that the number of parameters and computation of the model decrease by 11.0% and 17.7% respectively, and the continuous tracking accuracy and tracking and positioning accuracy improve by 17.7% and 7.4% respectively. In summary, our proposed ship multi-target tracking algorithm mainly solves the problems of low tracking accuracy and large computational volume, and has high engineering application prospects in the field of water transport.
Model-independent reconstruction of the primordial curvature power spectrum from PTA data
Authors: Yi Zhu , You Zhi-Qiang , Wu You
Published: January 2024

Recently released data from pulsar timing array (PTA) collaborations provide strong evidence for a stochastic signal consistent with a gravitational-wave background, potentially originating from scalar-induced gravitational waves (SIGWs). However, in order to determine whether the SIGWs with a specific power spectrum of curvature perturbations can account for the PTA signal, one needs to estimate the energy density of the SIGWs, which can be computationally expensive.
In this paper, we use a model-independent approach to reconstruct the primordial curvature power spectrum using a free spectrum cross over from 101 Mpc-1 to 1020 Mpc-1 with NANOGrav 15-year data set.
Our results can simplify the task of assessing whether a given primordial curvature power spectrum can adequately explain the observed PTA signal without calculating the energy density of SIGWs.
Phenomenology of DSR-relativistic in-vacuo dispersion in FLRW spacetime
Authors: Amelino-Camelia G. , Frattulillo D. , Gubitosi G. , Rosati G. , Bedić S.
Published: January 2024

Studies of in-vacuo dispersion are the most active area of quantum-gravity phenomenology.
The way in which in-vacuo dispersion produces redshift-dependent corrections to the time of flight of astrophysics particles depends on the model-dependent interplay between Planck-scale effects and spacetime curvature/expansion, and we here derive the most general formula for the leading order redshift-dependent correction to the time of flight for the scenario in which relativistic symmetries are deformed at the Planck scale (DSR) for the constant-curvature case.
We find that, contrary to the broken symmetries scenario (LIV), where in principle any arbitrary form of redshift dependence could be allowed, for the DSR scenario only linear combinations of three possible forms of redshift dependence are allowed.
We also derive a generalization of our results to the FRW case, and
discuss some specific combinations of the three forms of redshift dependence
whose investigation might deserve priority from the quantum-gravity perspective.
Correlations of baryon and charge stopping in heavy ion collisions*
Authors: Lv 吕 Wendi 文棣 , Li 李 Yang 洋 , Li 李 Ziyang 子阳 , Ma 马 Rongrong 荣荣 , Tang 唐 Zebo 泽波 , Tribedy Prithwish , Tsang Chun Yuen , Xu 许 Zhangbu 长补 , Zha 查 Wangmei 王妹
Published: January 2024

Baryon numbers are theorized to be carried by valence quarks in the standard QCD picture of the baryon structure. Another theory proposed an alternative baryon number carrier, a non-perturbative Y-shaped configuration of the gluon field, called the baryon junction in the 1970s. However, neither of these theories has been verified experimentally. Recently, searching for the baryon junction by investigating the correlation of net-charge and net-baryon yields at midrapidity in heavy-ion collisions has been suggested. This paper presents studies of such correlations in collisions of various heavy ions from oxygen to uranium with the UrQMD Monte Carlo model. The UrQMD model implements valence quark transport as the primary means of charge and baryon stopping at midrapidity. Detailed studies are also conducted for isobaric

+

and

+

collisions. We found a universal trend of charge stopping with respect to baryon stopping and discovered that the charge stopping is always greater than the baryon stopping. This study provides a model baseline in valence quark transport for what is expected in net-charge and net-baryon yields at the midrapidity of relativistic heavy-ion collisions.
One-loop contributions for
and
in the
extension of the standard model*
Authors: Tri Tran Dzung , Nguyen Thanh Huy , Phan Khiem Hong
Published: January 2024

We present one-loop contributions for

with

and

in the

extension of the standard model. In the phenomenological results, the signal strengths for

at the Large Hadron Collider and for

at future lepton colliders are analyzed in the physical parameter space for both the vector and chiral

models. We found that the contributions from the neutral gauge boson

to the signal strengths are rather small. Consequently, the effects will be difficult to probe at future colliders. However, the impacts of charged Higgs and CP-odd Higgs in the chiral

model on the signal strengths are significant and can be measured with the help of the initial polarization beams at future lepton colliders.
Nonlinear generalized master equations: quantum case
Authors: Los Victor F
Published: January 2024

A system of

N
≫
1

interacting spinless quantum particles, described by a statistical operator F(t), is considered. A time-dependent projection operator formalism for a family of projectors, which select a statistical operator

F

S

(
t
)

for a group of S < N relevant particles by integration of the variables of the irrelevant N − S ‘environment’ particles, is presented. This formalism results in a nonlinear version of the inhomogeneous Nakajima–Zwanzig generalized master equation (GME) for the relevant part of the statistical operator F(t), which contains an undesirable initial condition term related to the irrelevant part of the statistical operator depending on N variables. By introducing an additional operator identity, the obtained nonlinear inhomogeneous Nakajima–Zwanzig equation is exactly converted into a homogeneous nonlinear equation, accounting for initial correlations in the kernel governing its evolution. Both of these equations are equivalent to the corresponding evolution equations for

F

S

(
t
)

and take into account the dynamics of the environment particles. The equations for

F

S

(
t
)

are specialized in the linear approximation for the particle density n and analyzed for a one-particle statistical operator

F

1

(
t
)

. It turns out that, in addition to the correlations caused by interparticle interaction, the irrelevant initial condition term in the inhomogeneous equation for

F

1

(
t
)

, defined by the two-particle correlations, also contains quantum correlations conditioned by the quantum particle statistics. The latter do not vanish with time and cannot be disregarded in the conventional way by applying e.g. Bogoliubov’s principle of weakening of initial correlations. In order to take initial quantum and other correlations (commonly discarded in an unconvincing way) into consideration, the obtained nonlinear homogeneous GME has been applied. Exact in the first approximation in n, we obtain a new homogeneous equation for

F

1

(
t
)

, which accounts for correlations and is valid for any time moment t. It is shown how this reversible-in-time equation changes at different timescales and converts into the irreversible quantum Boltzmann equation on the macroscopic timescale without the use of the conventional approximations.
Universal scaling relations for growth phenomena
Authors: Rodrigues Evandro A , Mozo Luis Edwin E , de Assis Thiago A , Oliveira Fernando A
Published: January 2024

The Family–Vicsek (FV) relation is a seminal universal relation obtained for the global roughness at the interface of two media in the growth process. In this work, we revisit the scaling analysis and, through both analytical and computational means, show that the FV relation can be generalized to a new scaling independent of the size, substrate dimension d, and scaling exponents. We use the properties of lattice growth models in the Kardar–Parisi–Zhang and Villain–Lai–Das Sarma universality classes for

1
⩽
d
⩽
3

to support our claims.
Kaon beam simulations employing conventional hadron beam concepts and the RF separation technique at the CERN M2 beamline for the future AMBER experiment
Authors: Metzger F. , Banerjee D. , Baratto Roldan A. , Bernhard J. , Brugger M. , Charitonidis N. , Dyks L. A. , Gatignon L. , Gerbershagen A. , Ketzer B. , Murphy R. , Mussolini C. A. , Nevay L. J. , Parozzi E. , Rae B. , Schuh-Erhard S. , Simon P. , Stergiou V. , Stummer F. , Van Dijk M.
Published: January 2024

The AMBER-experiment [2, 1], located in the North Experimental Area at CERN, is the successor of the NA58/COMPASS [11] experiment which ran from 2002-2022. AMBER will start its data taking in 2023. The experiment is served by the M2 beamline, employing secondary and tertiary beams produced by 400 GeV c
-1 protons from the CERN Super Proton Synchrotron (SPS) impacting the T6 target. For the second phase of their measurements, AMBER will require high-intensity kaon beams [6, 7]. This requirement for high-intensity beams implies a need for accurate particle identification allowing tagging particles of interest that would otherwise be lost for analysis. The beam particle identification is carried out using Cherenkov (CEDAR) detectors [5], whose tagging efficiency depends critically on the beam divergence. In this paper we investigate the beam parameters required, the performance achievable with the current layout of the beamline, as well as possible improvements.
BME-Assisted Fabrication of Porous Copper Films with Adjustable Porosity and Ligament Width for Microelectronic Interconnects
Authors: Wang Fengyi , Jiang Shaoyang , Liu Jiahao , Chen Hongtao , Li Mingyu
Published: January 2024

Monolithic porous Cu films are synthesized through the use of bicontinuous microemulsion (BME) to serve as a flexible template. The BME system is made up of a series of interconnected linked water and hydrocarbon phases. This one-of-a-kind structure enables precision Cu electrodeposition only in the aqueous phase, avoiding undesirable electrodeposition in the oil phase. We can fine-tune the porosity and ligament width of the resultant copper film by altering the oil phase proportion in the soft template. This Sn-plated porous Cu is capable of both low-temperature reflow and high-temperature service. The flexible template approach shows great potential for creating porous Cu with changeable porosity, allowing for more control over compositions. This approach has potential applications in advanced packaging technologies.
Effects of copper infiltrant amount and infiltration method on mechanical properties of sintered steel
Authors: Lin Pengcheng , Wang Linshan , Liang Xuebing , Hu Qiang , Wang Limin
Published: January 2024

In this paper, the effects of copper infiltrant amount and copper infiltration method on the mechanical properties of Fe-Cu-C-based sintered steel were investigated. The results indicate that the density, tensile strength, impact energy, and hardness of the sintered steel increase with higher copper infiltration. The optimal mechanical properties were achieved when the copper infiltrant amount reached 15%, resulting in a surface hardness of HRC31, an impact energy of 31.34 J, and an ultimate tensile strength of 759 MPa. Furthermore, different copper infiltration methods affected the material’s mechanical properties. When the copper infiltrant amount was 12.5%, the impact energy of the sintered steel sample was 15.41% higher using the bottom copper infiltration process (30.19 J) compared to the top copper infiltration process (26.16 J). These findings provide valuable insights for enhancing the mechanical properties of iron-based powder metallurgy sintered steel with copper infiltration.
Detection of balling levels on the surface of SLM formed parts based on finite depth separable convolution network
Authors: Qiu He , Jiang Guozhang , Lin Xin
Published: January 2024

To meet the real-time requirements of balling levels detection in selective laser melting processes, a modified detection model, called Finite Depth Separable Convolution Network (F-DSCNet), is proposed by optimizing the existing benchmark model (BM) with two lightweight structures: Depth Separable Convolution (DSC) and Global Average Pooling (GAP). This model balances the effect of reducing model’s parameters and increasing model’s structural complexity brought by DSC on the computation and convergence speed of the model, and only introduces DSC in the higher-level convolution layers of the BM. In addition, the GAP structure is adopted instead of the fully connected layer to further reduce the number of parameters and accelerate model training and convergence. The experimental results show that the F-DSCNet model not only maintains high recognition accuracy but also significantly improves the model’s computation and convergence speed, as well as the recognition response time of a single image, exhibiting strong practicality for engineering applications.
High-Temperature Reliability of Nano-Ag Sintered Joints on Ag-Plated Cu Substrates
Authors: Xiaoting Wang , He Jingjing , Peng Zhipeng , Fan Yang , Wenbo Zhu
Published: January 2024

As an emerging lead-free packaging interconnect material, Nano-Ag paste exhibits superior high-temperature mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties. It can meet the stringent high-temperature and high-density packaging requirements of future high-power semiconductor devices and is garnering widespread attention. However, research on the high-temperature reliability of sintered joints remains rather limited. In this study, we fabricated high-strength hot-press sintered nano-Ag joints using a hot-press sintering process. These joints underwent aging at high temperatures of 200°C and 300°C, yielding insights into the variations in mechanical properties at different temperatures. The reasons behind joint failure were analyzed by investigating the evolution of joint microstructures and fracture surfaces. The results indicate that even after extended aging at 200°C, the joint strength can still be maintained at 176 MPa. However, after aging for over 100 hours at 300°C, the joint fails. The growth of Cu oxides was observed within the joint microstructure, which constitutes the primary cause of joint failure at 300°C.
Upgrade of Belle II vertex detector with CMOS pixel technology
Authors: Schwickardi M. , Babeluk M. , Barbero M. , Baudot J. , Bergauer T. , Bertolone G. , Bettarini S. , Bosi F. , Breugnon P. , Buch Y. , Casarosa G. , Dujany G. , Finck C. , Forti F. , Frey A. , Himmi A. , Irmler C. , Kumar A. , Marinas C. , Massa M. , Massaccesi L. , Mazzora de Cos J. , Minuti M. , Mondal S. , Pangaud P. , Pham H. , Ripp-Baudot I. , Rizzo G. , Schwenker B. , Valin I. ,   the Belle II VTX Upgrade Group
Published: January 2024

The Belle II experiment at KEK in Japan considers upgrading its vertex detector system to
address the challenges posed by high background levels caused by the increased luminosity of the
SuperKEKB collider. One proposal for upgrading the vertex detector aims to install a 5-layer all
monolithic pixel vertex detector based on fully depleted CMOS sensors in 2027. The new system will
use the OBELIX MAPS chips to improve background robustness and reduce occupancy levels through
small and fast pixels. This causes better track finding, especially for low transverse momenta
tracks. This text will focus on the predecessor of the OBELIX sensor, the TJ-Monopix2, presenting
laboratory and test beam results on pixel response, efficiency, and spatial resolution.
A Casimir operator for a Calogero W algebra
Authors: Correa Francisco , Leal Gonzalo , Lechtenfeld Olaf , Marquette Ian
Published: January 2024

We investigate the nonlinear algebraW3generated by the 9 functionally independent permutation-symmetric operators in the three-particle rational quantum Calogero model. Decoupling the center of mass, we pass to a smaller algebraW3′generated by 7 operators, which fall into a spin-1 and a spin-32representation of the conformalsl(2) subalgebra. The commutators of the spin-32generators with each other are quadratic in the spin-1 generators, with a central term depending on the Calogero coupling. One expects this algebra to feature three Casimir operators, and we construct the lowest one explicitly in terms of Weyl-ordered products of the 7 generators. It is a polynomial of degree 6 in these generators, with coefficients being up to quartic inℏand quadratic polynomials in the Calogero couplingℏ2g(g−1). Putting back the center of mass, our Casimir operator forW3is a degree-9 polynomial in the 9 generators. The computations require the evaluation of nested Weyl orderings. The classical and free-particle limits are also given. Our scheme can be extended to any finite numberNof Calogero particles and the corresponding nonlinear algebrasWNandWN′.
Food Estate in Transmigrant Society, Central Borneo: Blessed or Curse?
Authors: Widianto A A , Perguna L A , Fatanti M N , Alam M , Perdana D I
Published: January 2024

The food estate program implemented in Central Borneo has elicited both positive and negative responses from diverse segments of society. The present scenario is closely intertwined with the pressing nature and consequential effects, particularly within the domains of environmental and ecosystem sciences, economics, and socio-cultural sciences. This research examines the implementation and effects of the food estate program on the transmigrant community in the Pandih Batu District, Pulang Pisau Regency, located in Central Borneo. It uses a qualitative research design. Data were gathered through observations, documentation, and interviews. The focus of this study pertains to the transmigrant community residing in the regions of Blanti, Siam, and Gadabung. Establishing a food estate in Pulang Pisau has yielded favorable outcomes within the community, including the provision of assistance and enhancements in infrastructure, particularly in terms of road accessibility for the distribution of crops. However, it also raises issues like ecosystem alterations and communal farming practices. Despite the need for the land to support the target’s achievement, people feel driven to boost the production of the agricultural products the government has set as a goal. The establishment of the food estate has resulted in a situation where farmers have become reliant on the government for the allocation of resources.
The Potential of Rice Field Development as a Hinterland for The New Capital City
Authors: Indra Tito L. , Damayanti Astrid , Nuzla Hazani Syahla , Dimyati Muhammad , Ramadhanti Puspo Tiara
Published: January 2024

Rice fields in North Penajam Paser Regency continue to experience conversion. The plan to move the capital city to North Penajam Paser Regency can lead to an expansion of paddy field conversion. Babulu Subdistrict is a sub-district in North Penajam Paser Regency that has the largest area of rice fields, so it has considerable potential for providing food for the new capital city. In order to forecast rice fields in 2031 using cellular automata-markov chain modeling and to examine the potential of rice fields in the hinterland area of the future capital city, this study will look at changes in land use from 2009 to 2020. Land use changes were interpreted using 2009 Landsat 5 TM and 2014 and 2020 Maxar Technologies imagery. The driving factors used in this research are distance from road, distance from settlement, distance from river, slope, and elevation. The findings revealed that the number of rice fields in the Babulu Subdistrict raised in 2014 and declined in 2020. The rice fields’ transformations took place in places with easy access and level terrain. Rice fields are predicted to decline in 2031 because they have turned into oil palm plantations. Priority III dominates the potential for rice fields in Babulu Subdistrict with regard to the suitability of land development directives. Meanwhile, Priority I has the smallest area and is in the lowlands, which tend to be flat, far from roads, close to rivers, and immediate to irrigation networks.
Fuzzy Logic Approach for Earthquake Risk Around Menanga Fault, Lampung
Authors: Hendrawan Rezki Naufan , Draniswari Windi Anarta , Bakhtiar Agim Yustian
Published: January 2024

Earthquake mitigation was one of the most complex and challenging parts in disaster risk management due to its complex aspects because there will be surprises of magnitude and uncertain points of shocks. Hence, comprehensive and detailed analysis and modeling is needed to solve this kind of complexity. Fuzzy logic considers the promising approach for risk mitigation modeling with its algorithm that could help to model the uncertainties and ambiguities. Menanga Fault was the active fault that is now believed as the source of the earthquake that happened earlier in the Pesawaran area, Lampung. This paper aims to determine the earthquake risk level around Menanga Fault with fuzzy logic approach. The result of this research shows three levels of risk around the Menanga Fault and the highest was in the south and west area, especially in the coastal area.
Evaluation of Regional Tidal Model on the West Coast of North Sumatera Province
Authors: Purwanti S , Supriatna  , Susanti R D
Published: January 2024

On the west coast of North Sumatra, the availability of tidal data has not been optimal, hence a tidal model is required to describe marine information. The regional tidal model (developed by Indonesia Geospatial Agency, hereafter called as BIG model) was built from multi-mission altimetry data that was assimilated with 138 tide stations (TS) data over the Indonesian ocean before 2018. The research aimed to evaluate the BIG model using TS data that was built after 2018, namely, TS.Barus, TS.Sirombu and TS.Batahan at 2019-2020. The research method is to calculate the Root Mean Square, Root Sum of Squares, Root Sum of Squares of the In-phase and Quadrature, and Discrepancy (D) of 8 harmonic constants (HC: M2, K1, S2, O1, P1, N2, K2, Q1). Also calculated the correlation between BIG model and prediction from TS data in January 2021. According to HC analysis, the smallest amplitude difference in K1 TS.Barus is - 0.0077m, while the largest is 0.0278m in M2 TS.Batahan.Q1 has the least RMS at 0.0039m, while M2 has the most at 0.035m.The Discrepancy (D) between the BIG model and TS data is 5.5609 percent, showing that the tidal model is reliable. The correlation value between BIG model and predicted observational data shows a strong positive relationship, indicated by an R value between 0.996 - 0.998.
Integrating Sentinel-2 and PlanetScope Image with Drone-based Seagrass Data for Seagrass Percent Cover Mapping
Authors: Wicaksono P , Hafizt M , Harahap S D , Nandika M R
Published: January 2024

Seagrass field data collection activities to train remote sensing images for seagrass percent cover mapping and assess its accuracy can be laborious, costly, and time-consuming, especially for vast seagrass meadows with high density variations. There is also a potential discrepancy in information between seagrass data collected in the field, which usually covers 0.25m2 or 1m2 ground area, and the spatial resolution of remote sensing image used. PlanetScope at 3m and Sentinel-2 at 10m are the currently frequently remote sensing images used to map seagrass. There is a considerable information gap between seagrass data collected in the field and their spatial resolution. The use of seagrass field data thus involves a generalization process and a set of assumptions to justify its integration with remote sensing image. An alternative is to use the drone-based aerial image (hereafter drone data), which captures seagrass meadows at very high spatial resolution, to interpret seagrass percent cover at a level of precision similar to the remote sensing data used. This research assessed the integration of drone-based seagrass data with PlanetScope and Sentinel-2 images to map seagrass percent cover. Seagrass percent cover was interpreted from drone data for each 9m2 and 100m2 ground size following the PlanetScope and Sentinel-2 grids, respectively. Stepwise, random forest, and support vector regression were employed to develop the seagrass’s percent cover mapping model. The accuracy assessment of the resulting seagrass percent cover map involves the calculation of RMS error and plot 1:1 and its derivative analyses. Our results showed that an unparalleled benefit of using drone data is the possibility to obtain SPC information that matches the spatial resolution of satellite imagery, where techniques such as photo-quadrat and photo-transect cannot match. Drone data is successfully integrated with PlanetScope and Sentinel-2 images to produce a high accuracy SPC map effectively and efficiently. Indeed, there are challenges in using drone data, mainly related to oceanographic and weather conditions, and the difficulties in interpreting SPC at the species level.
Seagrass Aboveground Carbon Stock Mapping using PlanetScope SuperDove Imagery in Nemberala, Rote Island, East Nusa Tenggara
Authors: Salsabila H N , Wicaksono P , Danoedoro P
Published: January 2024

Seagrass ecosystem is natural objects that can be used to adapt and mitigate climate change through blue carbon sequestration. There are 16 seagrass species in Indonesia and the high diversity of these species supports the high potential of carbon that can be absorbed and stored. This study aimed to develop a general equation to estimate seagrass aboveground carbon stock (AGC) from the percent cover (PC), and to map seagrass AGC using PlanetScope imagery in Nemberala, Rote Island. Nemberala has very diverse seagrass species such as Enhalus acoroides (Ea), Cymodocea rotundata (Cr), Halophila ovalis (Ho), Syringodium isoetifolium (Si), Thalassodendron ciliatum (Tc) and Thalassia hemprichii (Th). The results of laboratory analysis to obtain the value of carbon stocks using the Loss on Ignition method from each species were 0.016, 0.004, 0.001, 0.002, 0.001, and 0.0001 (gC/leaf) for Ea, Th, Cr, Si, Tc, and Ho, respectively. The general equation for predicting AGC from PC is SeagrassAGC = (0.051*SeagrassPC) – 0.635 with r of 0.61 and R2
of 0.36. This formula will be applied to convert field seagrass PC data to AGC, which will then be used to train and test the accuracy of seagrass AGC mapping based on PlanetScope SuperDove 8 bands image.
Thermal Comfort of The Palabuhanratu Tourism Area
Authors: Banurea Dedy Swandry , Manessa Masita Dwi Mandini
Published: January 2024

The development of tourist areas is highly dependent on their facilities and attractions. The comfort level greatly affects nature-based tourism, which is based on outdoor activities. Palabuhanratu is popular with tourists because of its natural attractions, such as its beaches, water sports, and the new Ciletuh Geopark. The temperature and humidity of the air at the surface influence how comfortable travelers are in the area. These parameters are to be sensed directly by tourists participating in outdoor activities. The Temperature-Humidity Index (THI), based on the two climate parameters mentioned above, is used to show the comfort level. Spatiotemporal analysis based on GIS is used in this study, utilizing the ERA5 Reanalysis data for 1991–2020. The goal of this study is to find out how climate impacts comfort levels so that people can know when the best time is to visit. The THI values are highest in May, which means that this is the worst time of year to go to the area for outdoor activities. An examination of the diurnal pattern of THI is also carried out to demonstrate the sub-daily scale variation for further consideration.
Hydrogeology Conceptual Model of Meninting Dam and Its Surrounding Area, West Lombok Regency, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
Authors: Syafaat M B , Buana L A T A , Putra D P E , Kuncoro D A
Published: January 2024

The Meninting Dam is one of the dams recently built in West Lombok, Indonesia. Hydrogeologically, this dam was built on the Mataram-Selong Groundwater Basin, which is known to be a highly productive aquifer. However, in this area, no extensive research in terms of hydrogeological conditions has been conducted. Therefore, the objective of this research is to present a conceptual model of the hydrogeology of the Meninting Dam and its surrounding area. This study was carried out by collecting primary and secondary data on the geological, hydrological, and hydrogeological conditions in the research area. Results show that there are two layers of unconfined aquifer, one layer of aquitard, and one layer of confined aquifer in this area. The unconfined aquifer is built by layers made up of pebbles, sand, clay, gravel, and boulders, but also a layer of pumiceous tuff with a thickness up to 40 m and a hydraulic conductivity value between 10-1 mm/s and 5x10-2mm/s. The confined aquifer is composed of pumiceous tuff and has a thickness range of up to 100 m and a K value of about 5 x 10-3 mm/s. Between unconfined and confined aquifers, there is a thick layer of aquitard made up of laharic breccia.
Confirmed Case of Longstanding Respiratory Francisella tularensis holarctica Infection: Nebraska, 2022
Authors: Birn Rachael , Hamik Jeff , Dayne Lana , Frederick Justin , Bartling Amanda , Iwen Peter C , Wells Adam , Donahue Matthew
Published: January 2024

A male patient with distant history of extensive rabbit contact and pulmonary nodules for 6 years developed empyema. Francisella tularensis holarctica was isolated from thoracentesis fluid. Retrospective immunohistochemical examination of a pulmonary nodule, biopsied 3 years prior, was immunoreactive for F. tularensis. These findings suggest the potential for chronic tularemia.
Tularemia From Veterinary Occupational Exposure
Authors: Marx Grace E , Curren Emily , Olesen Marisa , Cronquist Laura , Schlosser Levi , Nichols Matthew , Bye Maria , Cote Andrea , McCormick David W , Nelson Christina A
Published: January 2024

Tularemia is a disease caused by Francisella tularensis, a highly infectious bacteria that can be transmitted to humans by direct contact with infected animals. Because of the potential for zoonotic transmission of F. tularensis, veterinary occupational risk is a concern. Here, we report on a human case of tularemia in a veterinarian after an accidental needlestick injury during abscess drainage in a sick dog. The veterinarian developed ulceroglandular tularemia requiring hospitalization but fully recovered after abscess drainage and a course of effective antibiotics. To systematically assess veterinary occupational transmission risk of F. tularensis, we conducted a survey of veterinary clinical staff after occupational exposure to animals with confirmed tularemia. We defined a high-risk exposure as direct contact to the infected animal's body fluids or potential aerosol inhalation without use of standard personal protective equipment (PPE). Survey data included information on 20 veterinary occupational exposures to animals with F. tularensis in 4 states. Veterinarians were the clinical staff most often exposed (40%), followed by veterinarian technicians and assistants (30% and 20%, respectively). Exposures to infected cats were most common (80%). Standard PPE was not used during 80% of exposures; a total of 7 exposures were categorized as high risk. Transmission of F. tularensis in the veterinary clinical setting is possible but overall risk is likely low. Veterinary clinical staff should use standard PPE and employ environmental precautions when handling sick animals to minimize risk of tularemia and other zoonotic infections; postexposure prophylaxis should be considered after high-risk exposures to animals with suspected or confirmed F. tularensis infection to prevent tularemia.
Tularemia Clinical Manifestations, Antimicrobial Treatment, and Outcomes: An Analysis of US Surveillance Data, 2006–2021
Authors: Wu Hung-Jen , Bostic Taylor D , Horiuchi Kalanthe , Kugeler Kiersten J , Mead Paul S , Nelson Christina A
Published: January 2024

Background

Tularemia, a potentially fatal zoonosis caused by Francisella tularensis, has been reported from nearly all US states. Information on relative effectiveness of various antimicrobials for treatment of tularemia is limited, particularly for newer classes such as fluoroquinolones.

Methods

Data on clinical manifestations, antimicrobial treatment, and illness outcome of patients with tularemia are provided voluntarily through case report forms to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention by state and local health departments. We summarized available demographic and clinical information submitted during 2006–2021 and evaluated survival according to antimicrobial treatment. We grouped administered antimicrobials into those considered effective for treatment of tularemia (aminoglycosides, fluoroquinolones, and tetracyclines) and those with limited efficacy. Logistic regression models with a bias-reduced estimation method were used to evaluate associations between antimicrobial treatment and survival.

Results

Case report forms were available for 1163 US patients with tularemia. Francisella tularensis was cultured from a clinical specimen (eg, blood, pleural fluid) in approximately half of patients (592; 50.9%). Nearly three-quarters (853; 73.3%) of patients were treated with a high-efficacy antimicrobial. A total of 27 patients (2.3%) died. After controlling for positive culture as a proxy for illness severity, use of aminoglycosides, fluoroquinolones, and tetracyclines was independently associated with increased odds of survival.

Conclusions

Most US patients with tularemia received high-efficacy antimicrobials; their use was associated with improved odds of survival regardless of antimicrobial class. Our findings provide supportive evidence that fluoroquinolones are an effective option for treatment of tularemia.
Feasibility of frozen soft tissues to simulate fresh soft tissue conditions in cone beam CT scans
Authors: Oliveira Matheus L , Bornstein Michael M , Dagassan-Berndt Dorothea
Published: January 2024

Objectives

To evaluate the feasibility of frozen soft tissues in simulating fresh soft tissues of pig mandibles using cone beam CT (CBCT).

Methods

Two fresh pig mandibles with soft tissues containing 2 tubes filled with a radiopaque homogeneous solution were scanned using 4 CBCT units and 2 field-of-view (FOV) sizes each. The pig mandibles were deep-frozen and scanned again. Three cross-sections were exported from each CBCT volume and grouped into pairs, with one cross-section representing a fresh and one a frozen mandible. Three radiologists compared the pairs and attributed a score to assess the relative image quality using a 5-point scale. Mean grey values and standard deviation were obtained from homogeneous areas in the tubes, compared using the Wilcoxon matched-pair signed-rank test and subjected to Pearson correlation analysis between fresh and frozen physical states (α = .05).

Results

Subjective evaluation revealed similarity of the CBCT image quality between fresh and frozen states. The distribution of mean grey values was similar between fresh and frozen states. Mean grey values of the frozen state in the small FOV were significantly greater than those of the fresh state (P = .037), and noise values of the frozen state in the large FOV were significantly greater than those of the fresh state (P = 0.007). Both mean grey values and noise exhibited significant and positive correlations between fresh and frozen states (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

The freezing of pig mandibles with soft tissues may serve as a method to prolong their usability and working time when CBCT imaging is planned.
15. Russia, China, and the Middle East
Authors: Dannreuther Roland
Published: January 2024

This chapter analyses the important relationships that are currently evolving between Russia, China, and the Middle East, reflecting the new global balance of power. It highlights the role that domestic factors play in defining their interests in the Middle East, including the need to incorporate the interests of significant Muslim populations in both Russia and China. It also examines the longer historical record of Russia, China, and the Middle East’s engagement, the imperial legacies, and the role that the Soviet Union and Communist China played in supporting radical revolutionary forces during the twentieth century. The chapter looks at how both China and Russia have enjoyed a significant return to the Middle East since the 2000s, which was driven by a mix of economic and geopolitical factors. It identifies the challenges the relationship of Russia, China, and the Middle East presents for the United States and the West.
Apple E3 ligase MdPUB23 mediates ubiquitin-dependent degradation of MdABI5 to delay ABA-triggered leaf senescence
Authors: Yang Fei , Zhao Ling-Ling , Song Lai-Qing , Han Yuepeng , You Chun-Xiang , An Jian-Ping
Published: January 2024

ABSCISIC ACID-INSENSITIVE5 (ABI5) is a core regulatory factor that mediates the ABA signaling response and leaf senescence. However, the molecular mechanism underlying the synergistic regulation of leaf senescence by ABI5 with interacting partners and the homeostasis of ABI5 in the ABA signaling response remain to be further investigated. In this study, we found that the accelerated effect of MdABI5 on leaf senescence is partly dependent on MdbHLH93, an activator of leaf senescence in apple. MdABI5 directly interacted with MdbHLH93 and improved the transcriptional activation of the senescence-associated gene MdSAG18 by MdbHLH93. MdPUB23, a U-box E3 ubiquitin ligase, physically interacted with MdABI5 and delayed ABA-triggered leaf senescence. Genetic and biochemical analyses suggest that MdPUB23 inhibited MdABI5-promoted leaf premature senescence by targeting MdABI5 for ubiquitin-dependent degradation. In conclusion, our results verify that MdABI5 accelerates leaf senescence through the MdABI5-MdbHLH93-MdSAG18 regulatory module, and MdPUB23 is responsible for the dynamic regulation of ABA-triggered leaf senescence by modulating the homeostasis of MdABI5.
Imagining Dinosaurs
Authors: Xhignesse Michel-Antoine
Published: January 2024

There is a tendency to take mounted dinosaur skeletons at face value, as the raw data on which the science of paleontology is founded. But the truth is that mounted dinosaur skeletons are substantially intention-dependent—they are artifacts. More importantly, I argue, they are also substantially imagination-dependent: their production is substantially causally reliant on preparators’ creative imaginations, and their proper reception is predicated on audiences’ recreative imaginations. My main goal here is to show that dinosaur skeletal mounts are plausible candidates for art-status. But, what is more, I think they are artworks—specifically, sculptures.
The Current Pattern of Pediatric Burn Injuries in an Australian Major Burns Center
Authors: Mok Sophie Yi Yu , Adams Susan Elizabeth , Anderson Holland Andrew John
Published: January 2024

Burns are a common mechanism of pediatric injury worldwide and a notable cause of disability-adjusted life-years. Burns in children represent a unique challenge due to the differences from adults regarding physical characteristics, physiology, and psychology. This retrospective cohort study examined trends of pediatric burns in New South Wales (NSW), Australia, from 2010 to 2022. It specifically focused on the changes in burn etiology and patient characteristics, body area affected, TBSA, first aid, location, and management. It also compared a “Pre-COVID-19” and “Peri-COVID-19” era to analyze the impact of COVID-19 on the pattern of pediatric burns, as children are at higher risk of injury during times of social disruption. The study found that burns in children continue to be concentrated in the toddler and preschooler age group, and the main mechanisms of injury remain as scald and contact burns. In recent years, there has been a rising trend of friction burns, alongside a fall in flame burns and severe burns. Management of pediatric burns has also evolved, with predominant use of ambulatory care and low rates of admission and operative intervention. Trends in burn injury continue to evolve with time, and over the last decade in NSW, key changes in the pattern of pediatric burns have been observed, with evolving mechanisms of injury, reduced severity of burns, and a shift toward ambulatory care.