bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hyperparameter Optimization of an hp-Greedy Reduced Basis for Gravitational Wave Surrogates
Authors: Cerino Franco , Diaz-Pace J. Andrés , Tassone Emmanuel A. , Tiglio Manuel , Villegas Atuel
Published: December 2023

In a previous work, we introduced, in the context of gravitational wave science, an initial study on an automated domain-decomposition approach for a reduced basis through hp-greedy refinement. The approach constructs local reduced bases of lower dimensionality than global ones, with the same or higher accuracy. These “light” local bases should imply both faster evaluations when predicting new waveforms and faster data analysis, particularly faster statistical inference (the forward and inverse problems, respectively). In this approach, however, we have previously found important dependence on several hyperparameters, which do not appear in a global reduced basis. This naturally leads to the problem of hyperparameter optimization (HPO), which is the subject of this paper. Here, we compare the efficiency of the Bayesian approach against grid and random searches, which are two order of magnitude slower. Then, we tackle the problem of HPO through Bayesian optimization.We find that, for the cases studied here of gravitational waves from the collision of two spinning but non-precessing black holes, for the same accuracy, local hp-greedy reduced bases with HPO have a lower dimensionality of up to 4×, depending on the desired accuracy. This factor should directly translate into a parameter estimation speedup in the context of reduced order quadratures, for instance. Such acceleration might help in the near real-time requirements for electromagnetic counterparts of gravitational waves from compact binary coalescences. The code developed for this project is available open source from public repositories. This paper is an invited contribution to the Special Issue “Recent Advances in Gravity: A Themed Issue in Honor of Prof. Jorge Pullin on his 60th Anniversary”.
A Single Amino Acid Substitution in the Transmembrane Domain of Glycoprotein H Functionally Compensates for the Absence of gL in Pseudorabies Virus
Authors: Vallbracht Melina , Schnell Marina , Seyfarth Annemarie , Fuchs Walter , Küchler Richard , Mettenleiter Thomas C. , Klupp Barbara G.
Published: December 2023

Herpesvirus entry requires the coordinated action of at least four viral glycoproteins. Virus-specific binding to a cellular receptor triggers a membrane fusion cascade involving the conserved gH/gL complex and gB. Although gB is the genuine herpesvirus fusogen, it requires gH/gL for fusion, but how activation occurs is still unclear. To study the underlying mechanism, we used a gL-deleted pseudorabies virus (PrV) mutant characterized by its limited capability to directly infect neighboring cells that was exploited for several independent serial passages in cell culture. Unlike previous revertants that acquired mutations in the gL-binding N-terminus of gH, we obtained a variant, PrV-ΔgLPassV99, that unexpectedly contained two amino acid substitutions in the gH transmembrane domain (TMD). One of these mutations, I662S, was sufficient to compensate for gL function in virus entry and in in vitro cell–cell fusion assays in presence of wild type gB, but barely for cell-to-cell spread. Additional expression of receptor-binding PrV gD, which is dispensable for cell–cell fusion mediated by native gB, gH and gL, resulted in hyperfusion in combination with gH V99. Overall, our results uncover a yet-underestimated role of the gH TMD in fusion regulation, further shedding light on the complexity of herpesvirus fusion involving all structural domains of the conserved entry glycoproteins.
New Insights into Hop Latent Viroid Detection, Infectivity, Host Range, and Transmission
Authors: Atallah Osama O. , Yassin Sherin M. , Verchot Jeanmarie
Published: December 2023

Hop latent viroid (HLVd), a subviral pathogen from the family Pospiviroidae, is a major threat to the global cannabis industry and is the causative agent for “dudding disease”. Infected plants can often be asymptomatic for a period of growth and then develop symptoms such as malformed and yellowing leaves, as well as stunted growth. During flowering, HLVd-infected plants show reduced levels of valuable metabolites. This study was undertaken to expand our basic knowledge of HLVd infectivity, transmission, and host range. HLVd-specific primers were used for RT-PCR detection in plant samples and were able to detect HLVd in as little as 5 picograms of total RNA. A survey of hemp samples obtained from a diseased production system proved sole infection of HLVd (72%) with no coexistence of hop stunt viroid. HLVd was infectious through successive passage assays using a crude sap or total RNA extract derived from infected hemp. HLVd was also highly transmissible through hemp seeds at rates of 58 to 80%. Host range assays revealed new hosts for HLVd: tomato, cucumber, chrysanthemum, Nicotiana benthamiana, and Arabidopsis thaliana (Col-0). Sequence analysis of 77 isolates revealed only 3 parsimony-informative sites, while 10 sites were detected among all HLVd isolates available in the GenBank. The phylogenetic relationship among HLVd isolates allowed for inferring two major clades based on the genetic distance. Our findings facilitate further studies on host–viroid interaction and viroid management.
Co-Delivery of Novel Synthetic TLR4 and TLR7/8 Ligands Adsorbed to Aluminum Salts Promotes Th1-Mediated Immunity against Poorly Immunogenic SARS-CoV-2 RBD
Authors: Siram Karthik , Lathrop Stephanie K. , Abdelwahab Walid M. , Tee Rebekah , Davison Clara J. , Partlow Haley A. , Evans Jay T. , Burkhart David J.
Published: December 2023

Despite the availability of effective vaccines against COVID-19, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) continues to spread worldwide, pressing the need for new vaccines with improved breadth and durability. We developed an adjuvanted subunit vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 using the recombinant receptor–binding domain (RBD) of spikes with synthetic adjuvants targeting TLR7/8 (INI-4001) and TLR4 (INI-2002), co-delivered with aluminum hydroxide (AH) or aluminum phosphate (AP). The formulations were characterized for the quantities of RBD, INI-4001, and INI-2002 adsorbed onto the respective aluminum salts. Results indicated that at pH 6, the uncharged RBD (5.73 ± 4.2 mV) did not efficiently adsorb to the positively charged AH (22.68 ± 7.01 mV), whereas it adsorbed efficiently to the negatively charged AP (−31.87 ± 0.33 mV). Alternatively, pre-adsorption of the TLR ligands to AH converted it to a negatively charged particle, allowing for the efficient adsorption of RBD. RBD could also be directly adsorbed to AH at a pH of 8.1, which changed the charge of the RBD to negative. INI-4001 and INI-2002 efficiently to AH. Following vaccination in C57BL/6 mice, both aluminum salts promoted Th2-mediated immunity when used as the sole adjuvant. Co-delivery with TLR4 and/or TLR7/8 ligands efficiently promoted a switch to Th1-mediated immunity instead. Measurements of viral neutralization by serum antibodies demonstrated that the addition of TLR ligands to alum also greatly improved the neutralizing antibody response. These results indicate that the addition of a TLR7/8 and/or TLR4 agonist to a subunit vaccine containing RBD antigen and alum is a promising strategy for driving a Th1 response and neutralizing antibody titers targeting SARS-CoV-2.
Humoral Immune Responses following COVID-19 Vaccinations among Adults in Tanzania
Authors: Bakari Muhammad , Aboud Said , Kasubi Mabula , Mmbando Bruno P. , Ntinginya Nyanda Elias , Sichalwe Aifello , Ubuguyu Omary S. , Magesa Alex , Rutananukwa Nancy Ladislaus , Nyawale Helmut , Kisinda Abisai , Beyanga Medard , Horumpende Pius G. , Mhame Paulo S. , Vumilia Liggle M. , Mziray Lucy S. , Mkala Reuben , Shao Elichilia , Makubi Abel , Mshana Stephen E. , Kishimba Rogath
Published: December 2023

COVID-19 vaccination remains to be the most important intervention in the fight against the pandemic. The immunity among the vaccinated population and its durability can significantly vary due to various factors. This study investigated the humoral immune responses among individuals who received any of the COVID-19 vaccines approved for use in Tanzania. A total of 1048 randomly selected adults who received COVID-19 vaccines at different time points were enrolled and humoral immune responses (IR) were tested at baseline and three months later (960, 91.6%). The level of SARS-CoV-2 anti-spike/receptor binding domain (RBD) IgG, anti-nucleocapsid IgG, and IgM antibodies were determined using a commercially available chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay. Descriptive data analysis was performed using STATA version 18 and R. At baseline, serum IgG against anti-spike/RBD was detected in 1010/1048 (96.4%) participants (95%CI: 94.9–97.5) and 98.3% (95%CI: 97.3–99) three months later. The IgG against the SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid proteins were detected in 40.8% and 45.3% of participants at baseline and follow-up, respectively. The proportion of seroconverters following vaccination and mean titers of anti-spike/RBD antibodies were significantly more among those who had past SARS-CoV-2 infection than in those with no evidence of past infection, (p < 0.001). Only 0.5% of those who had detectable anti-spike/RBD antibodies at baseline were negative after three months of follow-up and 1.5% had breakthrough infections. The majority of participants (99.5%) had detectable anti-spike/RBD antibodies beyond 6 months post-vaccination. The proportion of Tanzanians who mounted humoral IR following COVID-19 vaccination was very high. Seroconversions, as well as the mean titers and durability of humoral IR, were significantly enhanced by exposure to natural SARS-CoV-2 infection. In view of the limited availability of COVID-19 vaccines as well as challenges to completing subsequent doses, booster doses could only be suggested to high-risk groups.
Impact of the SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination Program on Presenteeism and Absenteeism among Healthcare Workers in Poland
Authors: Hoffmann Karolina , Paczkowska Anna , Michalak Michał , Jarząb Marzena , Bryl Wiesław , Nowakowska Elżbieta , Kus Krzysztof , Ratajczak Piotr , Zaprutko Tomasz , Kopciuch Dorota
Published: December 2023

Background. There is sufficient scientific literature on the effectiveness of registered vaccines in preventing SARS-CoV-2 infection, but research on the impact of the COVID-19 vaccination program on social and economic aspects is lacking. In connection with the above, this study aimed to assess the impact of vaccinations on presenteeism and absenteeism among healthcare professionals in the workplace caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods. A post-marketing, cross-sectional survey-based study was carried out on a sample of 736 actively employed healthcare professionals. Among them, 215 individuals (29.21%) were unvaccinated (control group). The study group consisted of 521 vaccinated respondents, with 52.97% being women and 47.03% men. A self-administered questionnaire was developed and delivered online to the target population group of healthcare workers. Results. A significant association (p < 0.01) was observed between the number of doses of the COVID-19 vaccine received and presenteeism among the respondents. Among the unvaccinated respondents (2.30 ± 1.19) or those vaccinated with only one dose of the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine (2.16 ± 1.11), the COVID-19 pandemic had a significantly higher impact on work performance compared to individuals vaccinated with three doses of the vaccine (1.19 ± 1.11). Moreover, a significant association was found (p = 0.0265) between the number of workdays missed (over the last twelve months) due to COVID-19-related sick leave and the number of doses of the COVID-19 vaccine received. The number of workdays missed due to COVID-19 sick leave was lowest in the group vaccinated with three doses (2.00 ± 6.75) and highest in the unvaccinated group (5.32 ± 16.24). Conclusions. Our results clearly show that the widely implemented national COVID-19 vaccination program brings tangible benefits both in medical and economic terms. The extent of reducing absenteeism and presenteeism caused by the coronavirus disease depended on the number of vaccine doses administered.
Cryopreserving Rabbit Semen: Impact of Varying Sperm Concentrations on Quality and the Standardization of Protocol
Authors: Di Iorio Michele , Lauriola Fabrizio , Rusco Giusy , Antenucci Emanuele , Schiavitto Michele , Iaffaldano Nicolaia
Published: December 2023

This study aimed to investigate the impact of sperm concentrations on the in vitro quality of cryopreserved rabbit semen. The semen pools (n = 8, from 80 donors) were split into five aliquots with final sperm concentrations of 15, 25, 35, 55, and 75 × 106 per straw. The sperm motility parameters (CASA system) and membrane integrity (flow cytometric analysis) were both evaluated at various stages of the cryopreservation process: fresh semen dilution, cooling, equilibration, and immediately after and 30 min post-thawing. The results indicated the significant influence of the sperm concentration on the total motility (TM) and progressive motility (PM), with a consistent decline in all sperm variables over the time points. Notably, the semen with a final concentration of 15 × 106 exhibited a higher TM and PM after cooling and equilibration. The post-thawing quality (TM, PM) was higher (p < 0.05) in the mid-range sperm concentrations of 25 × 106 (49.9% and 19.7%) and 35 × 106 (46.2% and 19.7%) compared to the other concentrations. This study demonstrated that the sperm concentration per straw played a significant role in specific phases of the cryopreservation process. These findings contribute valuable insights for refining and standardizing the cryopreservation protocol for rabbit semen, emphasizing the importance of the sperm concentration.
Research on the Hydraulic Characteristics of Active Ship Collision Avoidance Devices for Hydrodynamic High-Energy Beam Bridges under Relatively Optimum Deployment Conditions
Authors: Yu Kui , Wang Hongming , Liu Xianqing
Published: December 2023

To address the limitations of existing bridge anti-ship collision devices, which cannot protect both ships and bridges, this study introduced a hydraulic high-energy beam for inland navigation safety. Using a bridge as the technical basis and a typical ship in a navigable river section as the research object, the reasonable deployment angle of the device was investigated and the optimal jet ratio of the device R (the ratio of the high-energy beam jet to the mainstream flow velocity) was clarified through combined numerical simulations and a generalized model test. The ship’s motion response state was subsequently validated when the device was reasonably deployed. The results showed that the reasonable deployment angles of the device were 0°, 15°, and 30°. R = 4 served as the optimal jet ratio. Furthermore, the peak value of turbulence intensity in the Y direction was noticeably smaller than in the other three groups, with a stable change. The coordinate error of the key positions in the numerical simulations and generalized model test of ship motion response was less than 10%, the maximum error of the transverse coordinate of the deflection position was −9.8% and the maximum error of the longitudinal coordinate was −7.0%. The maximum error of the transverse coordinate of the maximum deflection position was −6.8% and the maximum error of the longitudinal coordinate was 3.7%. The numerical simulations and generalized model tests of ship motion response fit well.
A Dimension-Reduced Line-Element Method to Model Unsaturated Seepage Flow in Porous Media
Authors: Li Min , Zhang Xiaobo , Su Guoliang , Fan Chenglong , Zhang Qiang , Yi Le , Jing Tianyu
Published: December 2023

Contrary to the continuum hypothesis, which averages water flow across the entire domain, including both grains and pores, the line-element model concentrates unsaturated flow in the pore space in the intermediate region of horizontal and vertical channels. The flux equivalent principle is used to deduce the equivalent unsaturated hydraulic conductivity, the flow velocity and the continuity equations. It is found that the relative hydraulic conductivities derived from the line-element model and the continuum model are identical. The continuity equations in the two models are also similar, except that the coefficient in the water content term is half that in the line-element model. Thus, the unsaturated flow problem in porous media is transformed into a one-dimensional problem. A dimension-reduced finite line-element method is proposed that includes a complementary algorithm for Signorini’s-type boundary conditions involving the seepage-face boundary and the infiltration boundary. The validity of the proposed model is then proved by good agreement with analytical, experimental and simulated results for one-dimensional infiltration in a vertical soil column, unsaturated flow in a sand flume with drainage tunnels, and transient unsaturated flow water-table recharge in a soil slab, respectively. In general, the proposed method has good computational efficiency, especially for smaller mesh sizes and short time intervals.
Prediction of the Turbidity Distribution Characteristics in a Semi-Enclosed Estuary Based on the Machine Learning
Authors: Kim Nam-Hoon , Kim Dong Hyeon , Park Sung-Hwan
Published: December 2023

This study addresses the critical challenge of predicting sediment behavior in a semi-enclosed estuary, where the interplay between artificial freshwater discharge and seawater significantly impacts turbidity. Such environments are characterized by complex hydrodynamic interactions that lead to cycles of sediment settling and resuspension, influenced by tidal forces. To tackle this problem, we employed machine learning, leveraging its capability to analyze and predict complex non-linear phenomena. Our approach involved extensive transect observations conducted over two years, encompassing 11 ebb tide and 9 flood tide cycles. These observations were crucial for training the machine learning model, ensuring it captured the nuanced dynamics of sediment behavior under varying hydrodynamic conditions. The necessity of this research lies in its potential to enhance our understanding of sediment dynamics in estuaries, a vital aspect for environmental management and engineering projects. The findings demonstrate a promising alignment between the machine learning model’s predictions and the theoretically assumed sediment behavior, highlighting the model’s effectiveness in deciphering and predicting turbidity patterns in these challenging environments.
Abundance and Characterization of Anthropogenic Microlitter in Effluent from Three Wastewater Treatment Plants in Gran Canaria (Canary Islands, Spain)
Authors: Sanz Marta Rodrigo , Rodríguez Juana R. Betancort
Published: December 2023

Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) have been identified as significant point sources of microlitter particles (MPs) released into the environment. Simultaneously, they play a crucial role in effectively removing a substantial amount of MPs originated from domestic and industrial activities. This study evaluates the presence and chemical composition of MPs within the range of 5 mm to 25 µm in effluents from three WWTPs in the Canary Islands, each undergoing distinct treatment processes: pretreatment (PRET), activated sludge (AS), and membrane bioreactor (MBR) over an eight-month period. The concentrations of MPs exhibited substantial variations in the three effluent samples: 7461.50 ± 3843.87 MP/L in PRET, 32.71 ± 19.55 MP/L in AS, and 9.53 ± 5.21 MP/L in MBR. The predominant forms of MPs were fragments (58–66%) and fibers (27–33%), with the most prevalent size class being within the range of 150–25 µm. The mass concentrations of plastics, analyzed through pyrolysis gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (Pyr-GC/MS), were determined as 123.33 µg/L for PRET, 17 µg/L for AS, and 10 µg/L for MBR. This study revealed a diverse polymer profile, with polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polyolefins (PE and PP) predominantly present. This work enhances our understanding of MP dynamics and provides a valuable reference for future assessments, aiding in the selection of effective removal technologies.
Identifying Opportunities for Irrigation Systems to Meet the Specific Needs of Farmers in East Africa
Authors: Van de Zande Georgia D. , Amrose Susan , Donlon Elliott , Shamshery Pulkit , Winter V Amos G.
Published: December 2023

East Africa (EA), a region facing food shortages, has very little irrigation adoption compared to the rest of the world. Increasing irrigation has been shown to increase food cultivation, so governments and private organizations have been attempting to introduce irrigation products into the EA market. Despite this support, irrigation adoption rates remain low, reflecting that existing solutions do not meet the needs of medium-to-small-scale farmers. Meeting these needs is challenging due to the diversity of farmers in EA and the minimal exploration of these differences in the literature. This study sought to elucidate some of these differences and explore whether new opportunities exist for irrigation products targeting EA farmers. An interview-based market assessment was first conducted to identify key market segments and unique values that farmers in each segment may hold for an irrigation system for each segment. Then, a techno-economic feasibility analysis was used to reveal which combinations of irrigation methods and energy sources present promising opportunities for each segment. Four distinct market segments were found. Broadly, the traditional smallholder would likely most value a system that uses photovoltaic (PV) power and manual irrigation. The semi-commercial smallholder may find promising opportunities in a system that uses PV power and butterfly sprinklers. Both the medium-scale contract farmer and the remote farm owner would likely value PV panel- and drip irrigation-based systems. These identified opportunities can guide innovation for irrigation designers as they create new systems to directly serve the needs of specific market segments, with the aim of increasing irrigation and food security in EA.
Inhibitors of Battery Electric Vehicle Adoption in Morocco
Authors: Nasreddin Dalal , El Hafdaoui Hamza , Jelti Faissal , Boumelha Aya , Khallaayoun Ahmed
Published: December 2023

The transport sector is one of the main contributors to global CO2 emissions and the transport sector in the Kingdom of Morocco is no exception. To combat this, two important agreements aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions were created, the Paris Agreement and the Nationally Determined Contributions. The adoption of battery electric vehicles is one way of helping to reduce transport-related emissions. However, there are several barriers to the adoption of battery electric vehicles in Morocco. The objective of this paper is to identify these barriers and to propose solutions to overcome them based on a survey of 209 responses that were analyzed using the Smart-PLS 4 approach. The study found that the financial attributes, maintenance, design, social reinforcement, and lack of incentives related to battery electric vehicles are the most significant factors that could cause the hindrance of the adoption of battery electric vehicles. Therefore, more affordable and attractive battery electric vehicles should be made more accessible. Moreover, increased technical training facilities should be mobilized to boost further efforts and increase experience in the field of BEV maintenance in Morocco. By implementing these solutions, Morocco can increase the uptake of battery electric vehicles and reduce its greenhouse gas emissions. This will help Morocco reach its Nationally Determined Contributions and protect the environment as well as the health of its population.
Participant Experience of a Modified Sports Program—A Curriculum Investigation in Gaelic Games
Authors: Gavin Kevin , Taylor Jamie , Behan Stephen , Horgan Peter , MacNamara Áine
Published: December 2023

Modified sports programs aim to encourage children’s participation in sport and develop the skills required for future participation, with existing research supporting their positive influence on participants’ enjoyment, skill performance, and learning. However, limited research in this area and potential difficulties in contextual application underscore the need to understand stakeholders’ perceptions and the dilemmas of practice. Therefore, this study aimed to explore stakeholders’ perceptions of the Gaelic games modified sports program, Go Games, utilising the intended–enacted–experienced curriculum model as a framework. Short semi-structured interviews were conducted with 180 participants, including players (n = 92), parents (n = 62), and coaches (n = 26). Data were analysed using qualitative content analysis. The findings indicate a strong coherence between the experiences and perceptions of coaches and parents with the intended curriculum, but a disparity in understanding the purpose and objectives of modifications amongst parents. This study underscores the role of enjoyment for participants, but also highlights the high variability in the sources of this enjoyment. Prominently, coaches faced a range of dilemmas of practice based on the need to juggle often competing sources of motivation and enjoyment. This study suggests the need for greater parental understanding and significant support for coaches to manage these dilemmas of practice.
Contextual Meanings of Similarities in Âşık Veysel’s Poems
Authors: SELVİ Ceren
Published: December 2023

Analysis of the signs used in the language of poetry means bringing what the poet wants to say from the deep structure to the surface structure. Poetry is the art of bringing signs together accurately and artistically. What this means is that the desired emotion of the poem is conveyed by bringing the chosen language elements together harmoniously. These language elements which come together form the framework of the poetic language with the semantic bonds they create with each other.
The concept of "context" determines how all the words that make up the poem will come together. The language used in poetry is a tool for the poet. While using language as a tool, the poet will want to convey their thoughts and feelings to the reader through context. However, it’s not possible for them to go out of context while doing this. The concept of word, which corresponds to a sign in language, cannot be separated from the context. Words must be in a consecutive order to form a meaningful text sequence because the signs in language are linear. When using language, sounds and words are placed one after the other. When the words connect to each other, a meaningful relationship will arise between them. As a result of this meaningful relationship, contextual meanings emerge. In this study, the contextual meanings of the metaphors identified in Âşık Veysel's poems are explained through tables. Before moving on to the review section, brief information and examples are given about the concepts of sign/referent/context.
The Association between Job Stress and Productivity among the Academic Staff
Authors: Nourdadashi Ali , Amraei Mahdi , Faraji Khaiavi Farzad
Published: December 2023

Background. Employees are critical assets of an organization, and it is necessary to investigate and identify factors affecting their performance and productivity. This study aimed to determine the relationship between job stress and job productivity in university settings. Methods. This cross-sectional study included 124 employees of Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences (AJUMS) based on Cochran's formula. Data collection instruments included the standard occupational stress questionnaire of the England Institute (HSE) and Echio’s productivity questionnaire. The validity and reliability of the instruments have been confirmed. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 22 software. Results. The mean score of job stress and job performance was 119.75 (±17.49) and 103.3 (±21.3), respectively, and their level was estimated as average. Findings indicated a significant negative correlation between job stress and performance (r = -0.59, P<0.001). In addition, three variables, including employee position, management support, and change were identified as the main predictors of employee productivity based on linear regression. There was a significant relationship between some demographic variables (age, gender, and education level) and occupational stress. Conclusion. According to our results, there was a significant negative correlation between occupational stress and staff productivity. These findings can be generalized to university administrative personnel. Three occupational stress components, including management support, change, and employee position, were identified as main predictors of productivity. Therefore, in order to improve productivity, managers need to consider more independence and support for personnel, as well as reduce the changes’ rate.
PI-PD Controller Design Based on Weighted Geometric Center Method for Time Delay Active Suspension Systems
Authors: TURAN Abdullah , AGGÜMÜŞ Hüseyin , DAŞKIN Mahmut
Published: December 2023

In this study, a PI-PD controller was designed via weighted geometric center method (WGC) for a quarter vehicle model to suppress the vertical vibrations. The proposed design is based on finding the weighted geometric center of the area formed by the control parameters that make the system stable. The WGC method has two main stages. First, an area formed by the parameters of the PD controller (kf, kd) in the inner loop is obtained and the weighted geometric center of this area is calculated. Then, using these obtained parameters, the inner loop is reduced to a single block, and the parameters of the PI controller in the external loop (kp, ki) are calculated using the stability boundary curve as in the first step, and the weighted geometric center is calculated. The simulation results show that the PI-PD controller designed with the weighted geometric center method offers successful responses for the time delay quarter vehicle system.
“‘From Jewish Folk Poetry’ by Dmitri Shostakovich — in Yiddish”
Authors: Хаздан Е.В.
Published: December 2023

На компакт-диске «Akh, nit gut!», выпущенном компанией «Zefir Records», представлены шестнадцать еврейских народных песен в аранжировке Юлия Энгеля и цикл «Из еврейской народной поэзии» Дмитрия Шостаковича, также спетый на идише. Исполнители проделали неординарную работу, выявляя связи между сочинениями, принадлежащими разным эпохам, и обозначая пролегающую между ними дистанцию. Слушателям предоставляется возможность соотнести два разных подхода академических композиторов к фольклору и взглянуть на произведение Шостаковича в контексте русско-еврейской академической традиции.

The CD “Akh, nit gut!” released by Zefir Records, features sixteen Jewish folk songs arranged by Joel Engel and the cycle “From Jewish Folk Poetry” by Dmitri Shostakovich, also sung in Yiddish. The performers have done an extraordinary job of identifying the links between compositions that belong to different times and marking the distance separating them. Listeners are allowed to relate two different approaches of academic composers to folklore and to look at the work of Shostakovich in the context of the Russian-Jewish academic tradition.
Kürtaja Yönelik Damgalayıcı Tutum, İnanç ve Davranışlar: Şanlıurfa Örneği
Authors: TURAN Zeliha , ÖZGEN Hatice Nur , KORUK Fatma
Published: December 2023

Amaç: Bu çalışmada, Şanlıurfa ilinde yaşayan kadın ve erkeklerin kürtaja yönelik damgalayıcı tutum, inanç ve davranışlarını belirlemek amaçlanmıştır.
Materyal ve Metod: Kesitsel tipte olan bu araştırmanın evrenini, 18-65 yaş aralığındaki kadın ve erkekler oluşturmuştur. Örneklem büyüklüğü, pilot çalışmadan elde edilen değerlere göre 292 olarak hesaplanmıştır. Araştırmanın verileri, Kişisel Bilgi Formu ile Kürtaja Yönelik Damgalayıcı Tutum, İnanç ve Davranışlar Ölçeği kullanılarak Temmuz-Ağustos 2023 tarihleri arasında, yüz yüze görüşme tekniği ile toplanmıştır. Verilerin değerlendirilmesinde, tanımlayıcı istatistiklerden yüzde, ortalama, standart sapma; tek değişkenli analizlerden Mann Whitney U testi, Kruskal-Wallis One-Way Anova ve Spearman’s Korelasyon analizi; çok değişkenli analizlerden Lojistik Regresyon analizi kullanılmıştır.
Bulgular: Araştırmada, katılımcıların Kürtaja Yönelik Damgalayıcı Tutum, Inanç Ve Davranışlar Ölçeği puan ortalaması 41.39±17.28’dur. Tek değişkenli analizlerde; erkeklerde, evli olanlarda, çalışmayanlarda, ekonomik durumu kötü olanlarda, Arapça dil konuşanlarda, eğitim düzeyi ilköğretim ve altında olanlarda ölçek puanının anlamlı olarak daha yüksek olduğu, yaş ve yaşayan çocuk sayısı ile ölçek puanı arasında düşük düzeyde pozitif yönlü bir korelasyon olduğu saptanmıştır (p<0.05). Lojistik Regresyon analizinde ise; erkeklerde, ekonomik durumu kötü olanlarda, eğitim düzeyi ilköğretim ve altında olanlarda, yaşayan çocuk sayısı üç ve üzeri olanlarda ölçek puanının anlamlı düzeyde daha yüksek olduğu belirlenmiştir (p<0.05).
Sonuç: Bu çalışmada, Şanlıurfa ilinde yaşayan kadın ve erkeklerin kürtaja yönelik orta düzeyde damgalayıcı tutum, inanç ve davranışa sahip olduğu; cinsiyet, eğitim düzeyi, ekonomik durum ve yaşayan çocuk sayısının tutum, inanç ve davranışları önemli düzeyde etkilediği belirlenmiştir.
Pelatihan Desain Souvenir dalam Meningkatkan Produktivitas Pemuda Karang Taruna Desa Telagawaru
Authors: Subyan Mi'rajus , Pamungkas Bayu Aji , Tomi Muhammad , Mahroni Lalu Aswandi
Published: December 2023

Menyikapi pertumbuhan sektor pariwisata di NTB yang semakin meningkat ditunjukkan dengan semakin banyak peluang usaha yang ada di bidang pariwisata diharapkan dapat meningkatkan perekonomian warga Nusa Tenggara Barat. Pelatihan desain souvenir sebagai upaya untuk meningkatkan produktivitas warga dengan sasaran  pemuda Karang Taruna di Desa Telaga Waru memiliki potensi besar untuk berperan dalam pembangunan desa, dan melalui pelatihan desain souvenir, mereka diberikan keterampilan yang diperlukan untuk memanfaatkan potensi kreativitasnya. Metode yang dilakukan dalam pengabdian ini adalah melalui pembelajaran interaktif, demonstrasi, praktik langsung, dan tugas proyek individu. Hasil dari pelaksanaan kegiatan pengabdian ini, terdapat beberapa hal yang sudah dicapai, diantaranya: 1) Peningkatan dalam keterampilan desain dan mampu mengembangkan konsep desain yang menarik dan relevan dengan potensi pariwisata lokal. 2) Peserta mampu menghasilkan produk souvenir sebagai alternatif peluang usaha baru dalam meningkatkan perekonomian lokal.
Dipole-like interface states in quasi-periodic elastic waveguide based on Fibonacci sequences
Authors: Zhang Qiaomu , Liu Zhe , Xu Yuxin , Zhang Ruihao , Hou Hong
Published: December 2023

This paper investigates the dipole-like interface states in a quasi-periodic elastic waveguide structured according to Fibonacci sequences. The dipole-like distribution arises from the interaction of different transverse modes within the waveguide. Specifically, the non-Bragg bandgap resulting from the interaction between distinct transverse modes exhibits a stronger inhibitory effect compared to the traditional Bragg bandgap. Furthermore, our simulations reveal a notable sound field distribution on the surface of the waveguide, displaying two diametrically opposite regions with maximum sound pressures. This structure, characterized by a high Q factor, provides valuable insights into designing elastic wave applications such as filtering and wave enhancement.
Drain bias dependence of Y
22 and Y
21 signals at low frequency for on-state conditions in AlGaN/GaN high electron mobility transistors
Authors: Oishi Toshiyuki , Takada Shiori , Kudara Ken , Yamaguchi Yutaro , Shinjo Shintaro , Yamanaka Koji
Published: December 2023

The drain bias dependence of Y
22 and Y
21 signals has been investigated by two-port network measurement in the on-state condition of AlGaN/GaN high electron mobility transistors. Y
22 has signals for Fe-related traps in GaN layers and the self-heating effect. The Y
21 signal is unique among signals with the same drain bias dependence as Y
22 signals. This unique signal is considered to originate from AlGaN traps, using device simulation with a GaN trap, AlGaN trap and the self-heating effect. The peak frequency of GaN and AlGaN traps increases with increasing drain voltage, while the peak frequency of self-heating does not depend on the drain voltage.
Scattering-free Ce:LYBO single crystals for thermal neutron detection
Authors: Yuan Dongsheng , Víllora Encarnación G. , Nakauchi Daisuke , Kato Takumi , Kawaguchi Noriaki , Yanagida Takayuki , Shimamura Kiyoshi
Published: December 2023

Ce:Li6Y(BO3)3 (LYBO) is a well-known candidate for thermal neutron detection with a very high Li concentration (3.06 × 1022/cm3). So far, as-grown crystals exhibit a milky appearance that compromises their performance as scintillators. Current work demonstrates, for the first time, the growth of scattering-free undoped and Ce-doped LYBO by a thermal quenching process. The origin and features of the scattering centers are investigated in detail. Furthermore, the annealing treatment for the scintillation activation is studied, finding that the reduction in oxygen vacancies is mandatory. Under thermal neutron irradiation, the annealed scattering-free Ce:LYBO single crystal achieves a record-high light yield of 6200 ph/n in a single decay with a lifetime as short as 24 ns.
Legal Reconstruction of the Regulation of Plantation Crimes Based on Justice Values
Authors: Susan Susan , Mashdurohatun Anis , Wahyuningsih Sri Endah
Published: December 2023

This research aims to find and analyze the weaknesses of the criminal sanctions regulations against perpetrators of plantation crimes which are not yet based on the value of justice, and to reconstruct the criminal sanctions regulations against perpetrators of criminal acts based on the value of justice in a normative legal research which examines legal norms in regulations that examine the research object. The data used in this research is secondary data, namely primary legal material in the form of laws and regulations governing criminal sanctions. Secondary legal materials in the form of scientific literature and previous research discussing criminal sanctions and tertiary legal materials in the form of legal dictionaries. Based on research conducted, there are several norms of criminal sanctions against perpetrators of plantation crimes in Law Number 39 of 2014 concerning Plantations that are not based on the value of justice because the orientation of the UUP is on large internationalization investors or foreign investors so that plantation regulations are liberalizing, as is the case with Regulation of criminal sanctions and fines against perpetrators of plantation crimes is still weak, especially corporate sanctions. Weaknesses in the regulation of criminal sanctions against perpetrators of plantation crimes currently include weaknesses in legal substance, legal structure, and legal culture. From this weakness, there is also a legal vacuum and legal ambiguity, therefore, the reconstruction offered is carried out with the reconstruction of the norms of Article 103 to Article 113 of Law No. 39 of 2014 concerning Plantations.
Factors Impacting Compliance with Infection Control Guidelines among healthcare providers in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, referral hospital, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alshehri A. A.
Published: December 2023

Healthcare-associated infections continue to be a major problem that endangers patient safety, especially for critically ill hospitalized patients. Reducing the risk of this infection can be achieved through improving compliance with infection control guidelines and identifying and controlling the associated factors. This study aim to investigate factors impacting compliance with infection control guidelines and increasing the risk of healthcare-associated infections in neonatal intensive care units. A qualitative approach, a one-to-one interview design, was used, between April 15 and May 15, 2021, to interview ten participants who worked in the neonatal intensive care unit at a Saudi Arabian referral hospital. Through data analysis, two major themes and four sub-themes were found, which include a factor related to the workforce (shortage of staff and lack of knowledge) and factors related to the workplace (shortage of supplies and lack of monitoring). In conclusion, healthcare-associated infections in neonatal intensive care units are a serious issue that could lead to an increase in mortality and morbidity rates among patients. Thus, healthcare settings' commitment to improve compliance with the infection control guidelines is essential to lowering the incidence of healthcare-associated infections. This can be achieved through proper staffing, sufficient supplies, and effective monitoring.
Legal aspects of the activities of the European Public Prosecutor’s Office: prerequisites and law enforcement
Authors: Evdokimov Mihail , Valiev Taymuraz
Published: December 2023

The purpose of this study is to identify the causal relationship between the experience of European financial integration and the need to create a prosecutorial supervision body in the European Union (“EU”). In this regard, the task of the study is to study the totality of the legal framework governing public relations in the field of European integration, as well as the analysis of the EU legal act that established the European Public Prosecutor’s Office. Both general scientific methods and special methods, including the formal legal method, were used to solve the tasks set.

The article examines the prerequisites for the creation of the European Prosecutor’s Office, expressed in the difficulties in the implementation of legal means to combat economic crisis phenomena in the financial and other spheres of the EU functioning. The authors note these problems and compare them with the competencies of the European Public Prosecutor’s Office. Considering the first results of the activities of the European Public Prosecutor’s Office, they indicate the distinctive features of the European Public Prosecutor’s Office from other EU bodies, which will ensure the achievement of the best results in matters of EU financial integration.

In this regard, the study of this issue is needed for national prosecutorial supervision bodies when interacting with the European Public Prosecutor’s Office, as well as for the Eurasian Economic Union (“EAEU”) bodies regarding the possibility of creating a similar supranational body in the EAEU while continuing financial integration into the EAEU.
On reflecting the experience of the past in fundamental policy decisions guiding legal regulation
Authors: Drobyshevskiy Sergey
Published: December 2023

The decisions of the domestic sovereign power regarding the collapse of the USSR and overcoming the international isolation of Russia organized by some states are evaluated as examples of ignoring and reflecting this experience. The reasoning is as follows. In the first case, due to the ignorance of the leaders of the domestic sovereign power, the experience of preserving a single state by the former North American English colonies in order to avoid conflicts between them, including armed ones, expressed in the formation of the United States, is not taken into account. Such ignorance is considered as one of the reasons for the collapse of the USSR. In the second case, the experience of the transformation of the system of international relations after the collapse of the Roman Empire is taken into account, which made it possible for not the strongest states to better realize their own interests by developing ties with several of the most powerful countries established in the world at that time, which implies the impossibility of international isolation for each of the latter. Due to the similarity of this transformation to the transition from US domination in the international arena after the collapse of the USSR to the modern “multipolar” world, not the strongest states now have the opportunity to realize their own interests better than under the noted domination, communicating with all the “poles” of today’s world, including Russia. This explains Russia’s current success in interacting with so many countries.

As for the fight against the discussed ignoring of the experience of the past, although it is impossible to completely exclude it due to the fragmentary nature of the established history and the physical impossibility for a person to know even the known, it is proposed to raise the political culture of the participants of the sovereign power, which is guaranteed by a high-quality political science and legal education. This applies not only to decision-makers, but above all to their advisers-scientists, to whom they have to turn for knowledge of politics due to lack of time for independent knowledge of the past. At the same time, the forms of treatment may be different.
Female crime in the economic sphere: current state, dynamics, prevention
Authors: Sysoeva Anastasiya
Published: December 2023

The article analyzes current trends in female crime in the economic sphere. The purpose of the article is outlined by the author as improving the state-legal mechanism for preventing female crime in the economic sphere. The research methodology is based on a structural analysis of the dynamics of female crime in the economic sphere, a synthesis of the obtained statistical information and, on their basis, identifying promising directions for changing legislation in the area under consideration. To achieve this goal, an analysis of the determinants contributing to the commission of crimes by women was carried out. Economic factors are recognized as the key causes of female economic crime, including the level of wages and unemployment, the involvement of women in social and political life, the cost of living, etc. The following presents the results of a structural analysis of statistical information reflecting the number of women prosecuted and judicial practice illustrating the specific features of female economic crime.

Based on the materials reviewed, the author concluded that there are the most typical features of female economic crime, the prevention of which can reduce its level. The result of the work carried out is a proposal to amend the current legislation, which reflects the practical significance of the study. Amendments are proposed to the National Strategy for Action in the Interests of Women in terms of consolidating assistance to women’s public organizations

as a priority area for the prevention of female crime.
The role of the constitutional law of Russia in the modern educational process
Authors: Il'gova Ekaterina , Zametina Tamara , Kombarova Elena , Scherbakova Ol'ga
Published: December 2023

The article is devoted to one of the topical issues of modern legal education — the increasing role of constitutional law of Russia in the formation of a national-oriented, professional worldview of students. In the context of reforming the higher education system and the growing threats and challenges of modern Russian statehood, the study of the Constitution of Russia, the foundations of the constitutional system, is of particular importance. In order to implement the tasks of building a sovereign, national system of education and education of the younger generation of specialists, the article justifies the need to unify the Federal State Educational Institution of Higher Education under the UGSN 40.00.00 Jurisprudence in terms of studying the constitutional law of Russia within the framework of educational programs of a legal profile, as well as studying the discipline reflecting the constitutional foundations of professional activity in educational programs of a non-legal profile.