bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Freeform-surface-based optical design of a broadband compressive spectral imager with co-aperture coding
Authors: Lei Jingwen , Ma Xu , Ke Jun
Published: July 2024

Compressive spectral imaging (CSI) is an advanced computational imaging approach to reconstruct the three-dimensional (3D) spatio-spectral data cube of a target scene through a single or a few snapshots. However, limited by the response range of the image detector, the existing CSI systems mostly work within narrow spectral bands, such as the visible or shortwave-infrared (SWIR) spectral band. The work band of the CSI system constrains the detection capacity for the targets under complex environments (such as rain, snow, haze, etc.). In addition, most of the current CSI prototypes lack engineering design for practical applications. This paper develops a novel, to the best of our knowledge, optical design scheme of a broadband CSI system with co-aperture coding to simultaneously realize visible multi-spectral imaging (10 channels) and SWIR super-resolution imaging (16×). The freeform surfaces are used to design the front-end reflective objective lens, thus significantly improving the image quality and spatial modulation precision of the system. By means of performance evaluation and tolerance analysis, excellent image quality and manufacturability of the proposed system are demonstrated.
Pretraining of 3D image segmentation models for retinal OCT using denoising-based self-supervised learning
Authors: Rivail Antoine , Araújo Teresa , Schmidt-Erfurth Ursula , Bogunović Hrvoje
Published: July 2024

Deep learning algorithms have allowed the automation of segmentation for many biomarkers in retinal OCTs, enabling comprehensive clinical research and precise patient monitoring. These segmentation algorithms predominantly rely on supervised training and specialised segmentation networks, such as U-Nets. However, they require segmentation annotations, which are challenging to collect and require specialized expertise. In this paper, we explore leveraging 3D self-supervised learning based on image restoration techniques, that allow to pretrain 3D networks with the aim of improving segmentation performance. We test two methods, based on image restoration and denoising. After pretraining on a large 3D OCT dataset, we evaluate our weights by fine-tuning them on two challenging fluid segmentation datasets utilising different amount of training data. The chosen methods are easy to set up while providing large improvements for fluid segmentation, enabling the reduction of the amount of required annotation or an increase in the performance. Overall, the best results were obtained for denoising-based SSL methods, with higher results on both fluid segmentation datasets as well as faster pretraining durations.
Structural-information-awareness-based regularization model for infrared image stripe noise removal
Authors: Zhang He , Qian Weixian , Xu Yinghui , Zhang Kaimin , Kong Xiaofang , Wan Minjie
Published: July 2024

Infrared images play a crucial role in military reconnaissance, security monitoring, fire detection, and other tasks. However, due to the physical limitations of detectors, an infrared image often suffers from significant stripe noise. The presence of stripe noise significantly degrades image quality and subsequent processing, making the removal of such noise indispensable. In this study, we propose, to our knowledge, a novel low-rank decomposition model to separate the stripe noise components in infrared images. In comparison with existing algorithms for removing infrared stripe noise, our method takes into account the distinctiveness between stripe noise and information components. For the stripe noise component, we describe a column gradient domain low-rank prior and standard deviation weighted group sparsity prior. For the image information component, we employ a structure-aware gradient sparsity prior to suppress stripes while preserving the structural features of images. During the iterative solution process, we utilize both an initial solution based on minimizing column differences and an iteration step-size strategy based on variable acceleration to accelerate convergence. To validate the effectiveness of our proposed method, we conduct experiments to compare it with other destriping algorithms, demonstrating the superiority of our method from the perspectives of both subjective evaluation and objective metrics.
Image wireless transmission based on microwave digital coding metasurfaces
Authors: Cheng Xinyue , Jin Yongxing , Tang Ying , Li Chenxia , Fang Bo , Hong Zhi , Jing Xufeng
Published: July 2024

A 1-bit digital programmable reflective metasurface is proposed for controlling the far-field radiation pattern of reflected electromagnetic waves. By switching the on/off states of PIN diodes to correspond to digital “0” and “1” states, arranging different coding sequences enables flexible control of the electromagnetic waves. Based on the metasurface, we designed a wireless communication system to transmit digital information by manipulating the metasurface to change the far-field radiation pattern of reflected waves. Different far-field radiation patterns can transmit different digital information, so we proposed the basis of a 1-bit digital information transmission scheme. As a proof of this concept, an experimental metasurface sample with a size of 16×16 units was fabricated and tested at microwave frequencies. The experiment successfully demonstrated a 1-bit digital information wireless transmission scheme, with results showing good agreement with theoretical analysis and simulation, yielding a bit error rate of less than 4%. This work verifies the potential of digitally programmable metasurfaces for supporting wireless communication, holding promising applications in the development of next-generation wireless communication technologies.
Eavesdropping risk evaluation for non-line-of-sight terahertz channels by a metallic wavy surface in rain
Authors: Li Peian , Liu Wenbo , Li Da , Zhang Mingxia , Wang Xiaopeng , Sun Houjun , Ma Jianjun
Published: July 2024

Non-line-of-sight (NLOS) data transmission through surface reflection is pivotal for enhancing the reach and efficiency of terahertz (THz) communication systems. However, this innovation also introduces significant eavesdropping risks, exacerbated by the complex bistatic scattering effects during adverse weather conditions like rain. This work delves into the assessment of the vulnerabilities of NLOS THz communication channels to eavesdropping under simulated rain conditions using metallic wavy surfaces (MWSs). The observation reveals the feasibility of successful signal interception under these conditions, highlighting a prevalent security concern for outdoor terahertz communication networks utilizing NLOS channels to broaden coverage. This insight underscores the critical need for addressing and mitigating potential eavesdropping threats to ensure secure and reliable terahertz communications in varied environmental conditions.
Real-time monitoring of the dynamics of Brillouin fiber lasers with random feedback
Authors: Wang Haiyang , Chen Liang , Bao Xiaoyi
Published: July 2024

Brillouin fiber lasers (BFLs) with random feedback have become multifunctional and programmable light sources. The evolution of intensity and frequency during lasing establishment can be controlled by varying the scattering pattern and the strength of the feedback. However, the buildup dynamics of BFLs with different feedback is not fully understood. Here, we present a method to measure the buildup dynamics of BFLs with Rayleigh scattering (RS) fiber and random fiber grating (RFG) feedback that exploits real-time intensity and frequency characterizations. A narrow pump pulse is used to observe intensity fluctuations at different round trips. Experimental results demonstrate three different states during the buildup process of random BFLs, including spontaneous noise, beating dynamics, and stable lasing. The BFL with RS fiber feedback exhibits a lower intensity noise and a shorter buildup time than the BFL with RFG feedback, while the cavity BFL exhibits the highest intensity noise. Furthermore, we investigate the high-resolution spectral evolution by combining the optical heterodyne method and a tunable narrow optical gate. We observe that the number of lasing spikes decreases with increasing round trips in random BFLs attributed by the optical filter effect from the RS fiber and the RFG, which reduces the lasing spikes with low gain, while the number of modes remains constant in the cavity BFL. The frequency evolution is similar to that in intensity dynamics. Understanding buildup dynamics will be beneficial for the design of complex lasers with specific features useful for various applications.
Low-sampling and noise-robust single-pixel imaging based on the untrained attention U-Net
Authors: Lei Guozhong , Lai Wenchang , Jia Haolong , Wang Wenhui , Wang Yan , Liu Hao , Cui Wenda , Han Kai
Published: July 2024

The single-pixel imaging (SPI) technique illuminates the object through a series of structured light fields and detects the light intensity with a single-pixel detector (SPD). However, the detection process introduces a considerable amount of unavoidable white noise, which has a detrimental effect on the image quality and limits the applicability of SPI. In this paper, we combine the untrained attention U-Net with the SPI model to reduce noise and achieve high-quality imaging at low sampling rates. The untrained U-Net has the advantage of not requiring pre-training for better generalization. The attention mechanism can highlight the main features of the image, which greatly suppresses the noise and improves the imaging quality. Numerical simulations and experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method can effectively reduce different levels of Gaussian white noise. Furthermore, it can obtain better imaging quality than existing methods at a low sampling rate of less than 10%. This study will expand the application of SPI in complex noise environments.
Ultrasmall-sized light-emitting diodes fabricated by ion implantation based on GaN epitaxial wafers with fully activated or unactivated p-GaN
Authors: Pan Kui , Zhang Kaixin , Li Yang , Li Qiwei , Zhou Yijian , Yang Tianxi , Lin Chang , Sun Jie , Zhang Yongai , Zhou Xiongtu , Shao Jianda , Guo Tailiang , Yan Qun
Published: July 2024

A key challenge in realizing ultrahigh-resolution displays is the efficient preparation of ultrasmall-sized (USS) light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Today, GaN-based LEDs are mainly prepared through dry etching processes. However, it is difficult to achieve efficient and controllable etching of USS LED with high aspect ratios, and LED sidewalls will appear after etching, which will have a negative impact on the device itself. Herein, a method for preparing USS LED based on GaN epitaxial wafers is reported (on two types of wafers, i.e., with p-GaN fully activated and unactivated). F−ions are injected into the intentionally exposed areas on the two types of wafers to achieve device isolation. The area under the micro-/nano-sized protective masks (0.5, 0.8, 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, and 10 µm wide Ni/Au stripes) are the LED lighting areas. The LED on the p-GaN unactivated wafer (UAW) requires further activation. The Ni/Au mask not only serves as the p-electrode of LED but also Ni as a hydrogen (H) removing metal covering the surface of p-GaN UAW that can desorb H from a Mg element in the film at relatively low temperatures, thereby achieving the selective activation of LED lighting areas. Optoelectronic characterization shows that micro-/nano-sized LED arrays with individual-pixel control were successfully fabricated on the two types of wafers. It is expected that the demonstrated method will provide a new way toward realizing ultrahigh-resolution displays. Analyzing the changes in the current flowing through LED (before and after selective activation) on the F−injected p-GaN UAW, it is believed that depositing H removing metal on p-GaN UAW could possibly realize the device array through the selective activation only (i.e., without the need for ion implantation), offering a completely new insight.
On-axis full-field swept-source optical coherence tomography for murine retinal imaging
Authors: Meleppat Ratheesh K. , Valente Denise , Lee Soohyun , Jonnal Ravi S. , Doble Nathan , Zawadzki Robert J.
Published: July 2024

A full-field swept-source optical coherence tomography (FF-SS-OCT) for in vivo murine retinal imaging is demonstrated. The on-axis FF-SS-OCT system was built in a Mach–Zehnder interferometer configuration employing a tunable laser source with an adjustable sweep rate and sweep range in conjunction with a fast 2D-CMOS camera. A large field retinal (coherent) illumination was accomplished using an imaging interface comprised of a short-focal length imaging lens and a contact lens. The magnification between the camera and retina (spatial sampling) was appropriately chosen to record the microscopic structural features of the retina in the image. A pupil stop was employed in the detection path to reject unwanted backscattering from the mouse eye and other sources and limit aberrations distorting the retinal images. In vivo mouse retinal imaging was performed at a sweep rate of 150 Hz to acquire volumes unaffected by the system vibrations, which predominated at lower frequencies. Operating the FF-SS-OCT at this speed yielded an effective axial scan rate of 20 million A-scans/s and a field of view of 820 × 410 µm (24.12° × 12.06°). High-quality retinal B-scans and enface images of the retina were obtained with the SS-FF-OCT, revealing all major retinal layers and vascular plexuses.
On the relevance of hyperparameter optimization of convolutional neural networks for retrieving spectral signals
Authors: Saghi Ali , Lensu Lasse , Vartiainen Erik M.
Published: July 2024

Coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) is a third-order nonlinear optical process used in spectroscopy to analyze molecular structures. One significant drawback of this approach is its non-resonant background contribution, which distorts spectral line shapes and consequently diminishes the accuracy of chemical information. A state-of-the-art solution for automatically extracting the Raman signals from CARS spectra is the convolutional neural network (CNN) model. In this research, we studied the use of hyperparameter optimization of SpecNet, a CNN model proposed in the literature, to improve the extraction of the Raman signal from CARS spectra. The original SpecNet has two major problems: first, the model is incapable of recovering spectral peaks near the edges of the spectral range, and second, it cannot match the intensity of the peaks throughout the spectrum. In this work, these two problems were successfully mitigated by optimization of the hyperparameters of the SpecNet model.
Expression of Podocalyxin Potentially Decorated With Low-sulfated Keratan Sulfate in Human Testicular Embryonal Carcinoma
Authors: Muramoto Akifumi , Hoshino Hitomi , Inamura So , Murahashi Masataka , Akama Tomoya O. , Terada Naoki , Kobayashi Motohiro
Published: July 2024

Summary

We previously demonstrated that among various histological types of human testicular germinal cell tumors (GCTs), embryonal carcinoma (EC) preferentially expresses low-sulfated keratan sulfate (KS) consisting of repeating N-acetyllactosamine (LacNAc) disaccharide units composed of galactose and 6- O-sulfated N-acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc), which is recognized by the R-10G antibody. Recently, we generated another anti-low-sulfated KS monoclonal antibody, 294-1B1. Immunohistochemical analysis of testicular GCTs ( n=83) revealed that the low-sulfated KS recognized by 294-1B1 is also preferentially expressed in EC but minimally in other GCT histological types. Moreover, immunolabeling with R-10G and 294-1B1 antibodies was resistant to peptide- N-glycosidase F digestion, and EC was not stained with the MECA-79 antibody, indicating that low-sulfated KS expressed in EC contains mucin-type core 2 O-glycans carrying GlcNAc-6- O-sulfated oligo-LacNAc. Double immunofluorescence staining showed that R-10G and 294-1B1 antibody signals colocalized with those for podocalyxin (PODXL). Furthermore, western blot analysis of recombinant human PODXL•IgG fusion proteins secreted from low-sulfated KS-expressing human embryonic kidney 293T cells revealed that PODXL functions as a core protein for low-sulfated KS. Taken together, these findings strongly suggest that the PODXL glycoform decorated with low-sulfated KS is preferentially expressed in human testicular EC and may therefore serve as a diagnostic marker for this malignancy
Nine quick tips for open meta-analyses
Authors: Moreau David , Wiebels Kristina
Published: July 2024

Open science principles are revolutionizing the transparency, reproducibility, and accessibility of research. Meta-analysis has become a key technique for synthesizing data across studies in a principled way; however, its impact is contingent on adherence to open science practices. Here, we outline 9 quick tips for open meta-analyses, aimed at guiding researchers to maximize the reach and utility of their findings. We advocate for outlining preregistering clear protocols, opting for open tools and software, and the use of version control systems to ensure transparency and facilitate collaboration. We further emphasize the importance of reproducibility, for example, by sharing search syntax and analysis scripts, and discuss the benefits of planning for dynamic updating to enable living meta-analyses. We also recommend publication in open-access formats, as well as open data, open code, and open access publication. We close by encouraging active promotion of research findings to bridge the gap between complex syntheses and public discourse, and provide a detailed submission checklist to equip researchers, reviewers and journal editors with a structured approach to conducting and reporting open meta-analyses.
Development of culturally-appropriate text message booster content to follow a brief intervention focused on reducing alcohol related harms for injury patients in Moshi, Tanzania
Authors: Staton Catherine A. , Agnihotri Deepti , Phillips Ashley J. , Ngowi Kennedy , Huo Lily , Boshe Judith , Sakita Francis , Tupetz Anna , Suffoletto Brian , Mmbaga Blandina T. , Vissoci Joao Ricardo Nickenig
Published: July 2024

Alcohol use is a risk factor for death and disability and is attributed to almost one-third of injury deaths globally. This highlights the need for interventions aimed at alcohol reduction, especially in areas with high rates of injury with concurrent alcohol use, such as Tanzania. The aim of this study is to create a culturally appropriate text messages as a booster to a brief negotiational intervention (BNI), to in the Emergency Department of the Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania. Creation of text message boosters for an ED-based intervention expands the window of opportunity for alcohol use reduction in this high-risk population. The study followed a two-step approach to create the text message content in English and then translate and culturally adapt to Tanzanian Swahili. The culturalization process followed the World Health Organization’s process of translation and adaptation of instruments. Translation, back translation, and qualitative focus groups were used for quality control to ensure text message content accuracy and cultural appropriateness. In total, nearly 50 text messages were initially developed in English, yet only 29 text messages were successfully translated and adapted; they were focused on the themes of Self-awareness, Goal setting and Motivation. We developed culturally appropriate text message boosters in Swahili for injury patients in Tanzania coupled with a BNI for alcohol use reduction. We found it important to evaluate content validation for interventions and measurement tools because the intended text message can often be lost in translation. The process of culturalization is critical in order to create interventions that are applicable and beneficial to the target population.

Trial registration: Clinical Trials Registration Number: NCT02828267, NCT04535011
Measuring what matters: Context-specific indicators for assessing immunisation performance in Pacific Island Countries and Areas
Authors: Patel Cyra , Sargent Ginny M. , Tinessia Adeline , Mayfield Helen , Chateau Dan , Ali Akeem , Tuibeqa Ilisapeci , Sheel Meru
Published: July 2024

Increasing countries’ access to data can improve immunisation coverage through evidence-based decision-making. However, data collection and reporting is resource-intensive, so needs to be pragmatic, especially in low-and-middle-income countries. We aimed to identify which indicators are most important for measuring, and improving, national immunisation performance in Pacific Island Countries (PICs). We conducted an expert elicitation study, asking 13 experts involved in delivering immunisation programs, decision-makers, health information specialists, and global development partners across PICs to rate 41 indicators based on their knowledge of the feasibility and relevance of each indicator. We also asked experts their preferences for indicators to be retained or removed from a list of indicators for PICs. Experts participated in two rating rounds, with a discussion on the reasons for ratings before the second round. We calculated mean scores for feasibility and relevance, and ranked indicators based on experts’ preferences and mean scores. We used framework analysis to identify reasons for selecting indicators. Experts agreed that certain indicators were essential to measure (e.g. data use in program planning and measles vaccination coverage), but preferences varied for most indicators. Preferences to include indicators in a set of indicators for PICs moderately correlated with scores for relevance (r = 0.68) and feasibility (r = 0.56). In discussions, experts highlighted usefulness for decision-making and ease of data collection, reporting and interpretation as the main reasons driving indicator selection. Country-specific factors such as health system factors, roles and influence of various immunisation actors, and macro-level factors (namely population size, distribution and mobility) affected relevance and feasibility, leading us to conclude that a single set of indicators for all PICs is inappropriate. Rather than having a strict set of indicators that all countries must measure and report against, performance indicators should be flexible, country-specific, and selected in consultation with immunisation actors who collect and use the data.
Defining and prioritizing modifiable risk factors towards the co-creation of a urinary incontinence self-management intervention for older men: A sequential multimethod study protocol
Authors: Olagundoye Olawunmi , Ross Shelley , Gibson William , Wagg Adrian
Published: July 2024

Urinary incontinence (UI), characterized by involuntary urine leakage is a chronic, embarrassing and stigmatizing condition that is under-reported and under-treated). UI is under-prioritized and under-researched, particularly in older men (defined here as men 65+), and there have been calls for more targeted research focusing on this specific group. No existing self-management interventions focus on the needs of older men and none incorporate the perspectives of older men into their development. Furthermore, health inequalities and disparities in continence services for men, and a low level of health seeking behavior in men with UI make it crucial to incorporate their perspectives into intervention development to ensure optimal outcomes. The study will identify risk factors for UI that are potentially amenable to self-management in older men, assess their self-efficacy in managing UI, and determine what modifiable risk factors older men feel are pragmatic to include as part of a self-management program. We will conduct and report a sequential multi-method design consisting of a Delphi study among healthcare experts and a survey among older men with UI, according to the Guidance on Conducting and Reporting Delphi Studies (CREDES) Checklist and the Checklist for Reporting Of Survey Studies (CROSS). A geographically dispersed, multidisciplinary group of 30 health care professionals (urologists, geriatricians, family physicians, and nurses) involved in continence care and a representative sample of at least 128 ethnically diverse older men will participate in a Delphi survey and an older men’s survey respectively. The healthcare experts will evaluate an evidence-synthesized list of UI risk factors to determine those potentially amenable to self-management. Delphi rounds will be repeated until consensus threshold of 75% is reached. Thereafter, older men recruited via stratified sampling of population subgroups will rate a list of expert-identified potentially modifiable risk factors to indicate which factors they deem practicable and can prioritize. Older men’s survey questionnaires will capture information on patients’ characteristics (socio-demographics and UI-related items). The Geriatric Self-Efficacy Index for UI (GSE-UI Index) as well as a Likert scale to assess perceived capability and willingness to modify the expert-identified UI modifiable risk factors will be included. Data will be analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively.
Advances in an In Vitro Tuberculosis Infection Model Using Human Lung Organoids for Host-Directed Therapies
Authors: Kim Seung-Yeon , Choi Ji-Ae , Choi Seri , Kim Kee K. , Song Chang-Hwa , Kim Eun-Mi
Published: July 2024

The emergence of drug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.tb) has led to the development of novel anti-tuberculosis (anti-TB) drugs. Common methods for testing the efficacy of new drugs, including two-dimensional cell culture models or animal models, have several limitations. Therefore, an appropriate model representative of the human organism is required. Here, we developed an M.tb infection model using human lung organoids (hLOs) and demonstrated that M.tb H37Rv can infect lung epithelial cells and human macrophages (hMφs) in hLOs. This novel M.tb infection model can be cultured long-term and split several times while maintaining a similar number of M.tb H37Rv inside the hLOs. Anti-TB drugs reduced the intracellular survival of M.tb in hLOs. Notably, M.tb growth in hLOs was effectively suppressed at each passage by rifampicin and bedaquiline. Furthermore, a reduction in inflammatory cytokine production and intracellular survival of M.tb were observed upon knockdown of MFN2 and HERPUD1 (host-directed therapeutic targets for TB) in our M.tb H37Rv-infected hLO model. Thus, the incorporation of hMφs and M.tb into hLOs provides a powerful strategy for generating an M.tb infection model. This model can effectively reflect host-pathogen interactions and be utilized to test the efficacy of anti-TB drugs and host-directed therapies.
D-π-A based Diaminomalenonitrile Imine Compounds as Sensors: From Ion Recognition to Logic Arithmetic Applications
Authors: Akbar Wasseem , Ahmed Bashir , Naz Erum Gull , Bhardwaj Purvee , Shah Imtiaz Ahmad , Kaloo Masood Ayoub
Published: July 2024

In this review article, exciting highlights on highly π-conjugated (π-D-A) 2,3-diaminomaleonitrile (DAMN) based imines or Schiff base chemosensors have been reviewed and discussed. Owing to the typical free -NH2 anion recognition site and 1,2-ethylenediamine based chelating structure, both anion and cation sensing has been achieved with such designed molecules. It has been found that ion interactions strongly alter the electronic push-pull and hence intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) properties across the molecular system. So far such molecular recognition strategy has successfully detected ions like F–, CN– and Cu+2 in aqueous as well as non-aqueous media. Importantly, recognition is usually reversible and changes are clearly perceived through naked eyes. In this work, various sensing aspects like mechanism of interaction, type of recognition, sensitivity, reversibility, binding constants and spectral changes (absorption and emission) have been thoroughly discussed. Herein, the designed and fabricated sensor reports have been arranged in systematic order since 2010 so that the reader gets complete and trending picture of how the developments have taken place in the area of this research. In last, essential shortcomings and future challenges existing with the current approaches have also been highlighted.
Synthesis and Characterization of Color Tunable Europium(III) and Terbium(III) Co-Doped LaSrAl3O7 Nanocrystalline Phosphors: A Photoluminescent Synergy
Authors: Dhaterwal Deepika , Matoria Mahesh , Dalal Annu , Kumar Surender , Singh Sonika
Published: July 2024

Color tunable La0.99-xEuxTb0.01SrAl3O7 (x = 0.01-0.07 mol) luminous nanocrystalline materials were synthesized using an affordable, simple, streamlined and self-propagating, urea-assisted solution combustion synthesis route. The X-ray powder diffraction pattern of optimized La0.95Eu0.04Tb0.01SrAl3O7 co-doped phosphor sintered at 900 ºC revealed the formation of single phased phosphor having tetragonal crystalline structure with P421m (113) space group. The field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) micrographs revealed agglomerates featuring spherical-shaped porous nanoparticles with interconnect boundaries and smooth surface. The basic composition was determined via scrutiny of energy dispersive X-ray (EDAX) spectrum. Observations of diffuse reflectance spectroscopy were analyzed to determine the optical band gap values of synthesized Eu3+/Tb3+ co-doped LaSrAl3O7 nanocrystalline luminescent materials. To explore how dopant concentration affected the luminous intensity of phosphors, a thorough examination of the photoluminescence excitation and emission spectra of La0.99-xEuxTb0.01SrAl3O7 (x = 0.01-0.07 mol) was executed. The analysis of luminescence spectra demonstrated that Tb3+ efficiently sensitized the Eu3+ ion. The critical distance (Rc) was calculated to be 5.576 Å and it emerged that non-radiant energy loss occurrence i.e. concentration quenching observed after x = 0.04 mol (Eu3+) doping in La0.99-xEuxTb0.01SrAl3O7 (x = 0.01-0.07 mol) co-doped phosphors was induced by the dipole-quadrupole (d-q) interactions. Moreover, colorimetric attributes including Commission International de I'Eclairage 1931 color coordinates (x, y), color purity and correlated color temperature were obtained by utilization their emission data. The derived nanophosphor materials photometric traits enable new design opportunities for upgraded luminous materials that can be utilized in field emission displays, diverse luminous sources, photonic appliances, phosphor converted light emitting diodes, full-color displays and numerous lighting devices.
Effect of animal manure on population dynamics of indigenous soil Bacillus spp.
Authors: Baryakabona Silver , Ssekandi Joseph , Turyagyenda Laban Frank
Published: July 2024

Bacillus spp. are soil inhabitants, many of which play vital roles as biofertilizers and biopesticides in plant production. These bacteria derive their nourishment from soil organic carbon and nitrogen provided by organic matter. Reports indicate that animal manure increases the population and diversity of Bacillus spp. in the soil.  However, there is limited information on which of the three commonly used animal manure (cattle, goat, and chicken) is more effective in multiplying Bacillus cells. This study evaluated the effectiveness of cattle, goat, and chicken manures, standard nutrient broth, and soil, as growth media, on the multiplication of 22 indigenous soil Bacillus spp. strains previously isolated from the cabbage rhizosphere. A Completely Randomized Design with five treatments replicated three times was used and the conditions were kept at room temperature. Both standard nutrient broth and sterilized soil media were used as controls. Colony-forming unit counts of Bacillus spp. were subjected to Log (x+1) transformation. One-way analysis of variance was used to generate mean differences and means separated using Duncan’s LSD test (p = 0.05). Linear curves were drawn to compare the growth trends for each Bacillus strain. The findings indicate that the growth of Bacillus spp. strains in animal manure were significantly higher than in the soil media. Growth in the soil media was significantly lower than in standard nutrient broth media growth. Results further show that the growth of the Bacillus spp. in all the media followed the normal growth curve of bacterial cells. Results from this study, therefore, suggest that amendment of soil with cattle, goat, and chicken manures enhances the growth and multiplication of soil Bacillus spp. and this has a positive effect on soil fertility. These manures can also be used in the commercial production of the bacillus bacteria as a biofertilizer and biopesticide. Biofertilizers are cheap, have long-term effects on soil fertility, and are health-friendly to the environment and the user.
Gis-base derivation of land surface temperatures from 2000 to 2022 in Abakaliki LGA, Ebonyi State, Nigeria
Authors: Onuegbu Francis Ezinwanne
Published: July 2024

The escalating rise in Land Surface Temperatures poses severe climate risks globally. However, quantifying local warming patterns and associated vulnerabilities remains crucial, particularly in data-scarce regions like sub-Saharan Africa. This study harnesses the power of multi-temporal Landsat thermal imagery, calibrated with gridded meteorological reanalysis, to characterize the shifts in the thermal landscape of Abakaliki, Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Nigeria, over a two-decade period from 2000 to 2022. The retrieved Land Surface Temperatures were classified into five distinct regimes and compared using zonal statistics, further regressed against climatic drivers. The results unveil a significant surface warming trend, with average temperatures soaring by 15°C and minimum temperatures rising over 16 °C. Notably, the spatial heterogeneity of these impacts is mediated by surface properties, while the compression of inter-annual variability signifies a diminishing thermal resilience. Preliminary regression analysis attributes the primary causality to anthropogenic forcing, exacerbating regional climate shifts, with a robust coefficient of determination (R² = 0.86) and a statistically significant p-value (p < 0.05). Alarmingly, the amplified nocturnal temperatures now persistently exceed hazardous thresholds of 30 °C, posing mounting risks to human health, agriculture, and ecosystems, necessitating adaptive interventions. Furthermore, this observational approach underscores the indispensable role of integrated Earth observations and statistical modeling in characterizing local climate change impacts, mechanisms, and feedback, particularly in areas where in-situ monitoring networks are sparse. Ultimately, the study provides policy-relevant insights into the transformed thermal conditions that resilience strategies must now address to safeguard livelihoods under the rapid climate shifts unfolding across southeastern Nigeria and comparable environments.
Impact of Cordyline fruticosa leaf meal supplemented diet on growth performance, egg production, egg quality, and some heamatological indices of laying hen
Authors: Alagbe John Olujimi
Published: July 2024

At Sumitra Research Institute in Gujarat, India, research was carried out to ascertain the impact of Cordyline fruticosa on the growth performance, egg quality, production, and some heamatological indices of laying hens. 500 – 35 weeks Lohmann brown birds with an initial weight of 1717 grams were randomly distributed into five treatments with five replicates (20 hens per replicate). The basal diet was formulated according to the requirements of the birds. Hens in treatment 1 (control group) were fed basal diet only. The other experimental groups were fed the same diet with the addition of C. fruticosa meal at 10, 20, 30, and 40 g respectively in treatments 2, 3, 4, and 5. Birds were given free access to feed and clean water and a completely randomized design was adopted throughout the 90-day experimental period. Results showed that average weight gains and average daily feed intake followed a similar trend, birds fed C. fruticosa meal had higher body weight compared to the control in this order treatment 5 (T5) (1270.0 g), 4 (1263.0 g), 3 (1233.6 g), 2 (1230.0 g) and 1 (983.1 g) (p < 0.05) respectively. The treatment influenced the average daily feed intake, feed conversion, and mortality rate (p < 0.05). Hen day egg production and hen house egg production were higher in T5 (72.98%, 65.90%), T4 (72.72%, 69.85%), T3 (72.88%, 69.83%), intermediate in T2 (60.09%, 51.00%) and lower in T1 (51.19%, 41.85%). Eggshell strength, eggshell thickness, egg weight, albumen weight, yolk weight, yolk index, and haugh unit were significantly (p < 0.05) different among the treatments. Pack cell volume, haemoglobin, red blood cell, white blood cell, heterophil, and lymphocyte count were influenced by the treatment. However, values fall within the established range for healthy laying hen. It was concluded that Cordyline fruticosa meal can be fed to laying hens up to 40 g kg-1 diet without having any negative effect on their performance and health status.
Teoria de Cineastas: A busca por perspectivas globais
Authors: Gama Morgana
Published: July 2024

Recensão crítica do livro Filmmakers on Film: Global Perspectives, organizado por André Rui Graça, Eduardo Baggio e Manuela Penafria (Bloomsbury/ BFI, 2023).
Editorial V11n2
Authors: Editorial Conselho
Published: July 2024

Editorial do número 2 do volume 11 da Aniki: Revista Portuguesa da Imagem em Movimento.
Student reflections on preference and use of lecture notes and recordings
Authors: Cook Emily J. , Blicblau Aaron S. , Keane Therese
Published: July 2024

This study examines feedback from students about the use of Tablet PC technology in material science lectures to help us understand how students use available learning resources and to inform the creation of future materials. Students commented on their preferences for being given full notes or partial notes which were annotated during the lectures and also on how they used notes and recordings in their learning. Students presented conflicting views on which style of note-taking they preferred with a varied range of reasons for their preferences. Feedback indicated that students perceive that live lectures are important and that the distribution of complete notes and recordings were useful as revision aids and if missing a lecture was unavoidable. Suggestions were made that the technology could also be used to produce podcasts of key points and videos of demonstrations performed in lectures.
Application of Cytoscape to the Analysis of Diagrams of Mechanisms Underlying Patient Problems
Authors: Wang Shaoyu , Surmon Laura , Langendyk Vicki , Hegazi Iman , Succar Tony , Mason Glenn , Hu Wendy
Published: July 2024

In problem based learning (PBL) tutorials in a medical context, students solve authentic patient problems with the educational aim to develop their reasoning capacity. A key activity to facilitate development of their reasoning capacity in a tutorial is the construction of diagrams of mechanisms that explain patient problems. These diagrams are networks of discrete elements (such as headache) of patient problems. Analysis of these diagrams may yield insights into students' reasoning styles. To achieve this aim, we employed an application called Cytoscape, which is capable of visualising and analysing networks, to study these diagrams. In this preliminary study, we showed that Cytoscape can be used to analyze these diagrams of mechanisms produced in PBL tutorials. We found that students tend to reason in a hierarchical manner. Parameters are also defined that can be used to identify incorrect and missing links in their reasoning processes.
Revisiting the definition of Mobile Learning
Authors: Farley Helen , Murphy Angela , Rees Sharon
Published: July 2024

Mobile learning is increasingly seen as a boon to universities and educators as a means of enabling learning anywhere, anytime and at the convenience of the learner. Even though the field of mobile learning is in its infancy, there is no common understanding of what mobile learning is. Previous attempts at defining mobile learner have either been overly inclusive or exclusive, and have focused on characteristics of the mediating technology, the learner, or the nature of the learning activity. Inspired by Wittgenstein's theory of family resemblances, this paper explores the attempt to create a new definition of mobile learning that will be dynamic, drawing from a collection of characteristics that may change over time rather than just supplying a single, unchanging definition. The revised definition will be used to support the development of a Mobile Learning Evaluation Framework by clarifying the attributes and features to be included in a robust and flexible definition of mobile learning. The outcome may be of value to researchers in the mobile learning field and educators considering incorporating mobile learning initiatives into current pedagogical strategies.
Flipped classroom in first year management accounting unit
Authors: Du Xinni , Taylor Sharon
Published: July 2024

A flipped classroom is one form of blended learning. The blended delivery model adopted in this case study uses online content delivery mechanisms for both curriculum and evaluation. This approach allows students to better utilise face-to-face class time to have in-depth discussions with teaching staff on application of knowledge. This cast study describes the experience of both students and staff in relation to this major redesign as well as provides some reflective commentary in relation to the pilot. The pilot described in this paper relates to a first year management accounting unit. This paper will describe the process of unit redesign and implementation, including planning tools developed for teaching staff and students. The case study also reveals that student readiness and self-management skills perhaps are one of the most important elements that result in a successful student blended learning experience.
The power of jus cogens in the shadow of procedural obstacles. Legal dilemmas in international cases concerning severe human rights violations, special regards to the Ukraine–Russia War
Authors: Takács Izolda
Published: July 2024

Jurisdictional immunity of foreign states remains a rule under international law, even in cases involv- ing violations of peremptory norms of international law (jus cogens). Therefore, the assumption that the primacy view of jus cogens can resolve the dilemma over the relationship between serious human rights violations and state sovereignty is misleading and does not always prevail in practical applica- tion. This paper first outlines the “evergreen” dilemma of jus cogens versus state immunity, followed by an illustration of how procedural issues are addressed in pivotal international cases. In this regard, the paper primarily focuses on criminal proceedings submitted to the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to explore the issue more thoroughly. Finally, considering the unresolved nature of the central issue and the international climate, the study extends the nucleus of the problem to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.
Influence of annealing temperature on the structure, morphology, optical property and antibacterial response of phytochemicals-assisted synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles
Authors: Sampath Buvana , Charles Julie
Published: July 2024

Antibiotic overuse has caused a variety of bacterial pathogens to develop new resistance mechanisms. As a result, discovering an appropriate replacement for the standard antibiotics has become an immediate concern. The present work demonstrates a facile, eco-friendly and economical method for the synthesis of hexagonal wurtzite zinc oxide nanoparticles (ω-ZONPs) using the ethanolic extract of triphala. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis of the triphala extract proved the presence of certain secondary metabolites, which aids in the formation of ω-ZONPs. The influence of annealing temperature on the antibacterial action of as-synthesized ω-ZONPs was studied for three different annealing temperatures. X-ray diffraction, dynamic light scattering, field emission electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analyses were used to examine the impact of annealing temperature on the structure, particle size and morphology of ω-ZONPs. Fourier transform infrared spectra revealed the change in intensity of the characteristic peaks in ω-ZONPs with different annealing temperatures. From UV–Visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, variation in the band gap of ω-ZONPs with increasing annealing temperature was detected. Kirby Bauer disc diffusion was adopted to examine the antibacterial potential of ω-ZONPs against bacterial strains such as Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecium, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The ω-ZONPs annealed at 200 °C inhibited the growth of three bacterial pathogens, E. coli, B. subtilis and P. aeruginosa and exhibited effective antibacterial activity in comparison with ω-ZONPs annealed at relatively high temperatures. Thus, the antibacterial potential of ω-ZONPs could be further explored as disease controlling agents and such prototypes could be made available for commercial mass production.
A new challenge for cadastral surveying in Taiwan: feasibility analysis using combination on CORS data and online PPP service
Authors: Ho Ming-Kuang , Yeh Ta-Kang , Liao Tung-Shan , Chung Yi-Da
Published: July 2024

Relative GNSS positioning, a longstanding measurement standard, often incurs high manpower and equipment costs. Online Precise Point Positioning (PPP) presents a cost-effective alternative by minimizing these expenses. However, transitioning from the ITRF2014 to the TWD97[2010] coordinate system presents unique challenges. This study evaluates the efficacy of five PPP services – AUSPOS, OPUS, CSRS-PPP, magicGNSS, and RTX-PP – using 2018 Continuously Operating Reference Stations (CORS) data. Following a seven-parameter transformation, we systematically compared these services to identify the optimal solution for Taiwan’s geodetic survey needs. Our analysis reveals that RTX-PP offers superior performance, achieving 1 cm accuracy over 24 h and 4 cm accuracy over 1 h. Most stations met these accuracy standards, even during short observation intervals from September 9, 2018. Nonetheless, there is a 24.1 % likelihood of exceeding the 6 cm accuracy threshold due to variations in GNSS data quality. To address this, we employed G-Nut software to analyze station data quality across regions, recommending station selection based on data ratio and cycle slips to improve PPP solution accuracy effectively.
Comparative performance of wavelength division multiplexing system using different optical communication channels
Authors: Dewra Sanjeev , Sharma Kartik
Published: July 2024

This paper investigates the comparative analysis of optical system using different communication channels such as Optical Wireless Communication (OWC), Single Mode Fiber (SMF) and Free Space Optics (FSO). The comparative assessment involves analyzing these channels based on metrics such as Quality Factor (QF) and Bit Error Rate (BER) across various communication distances. It has been analyzed that Optical Wireless Communication channel provides wide coverage distance than Free Space Optics and Single Mode Fiber. It is found that despite the presence of fiber nonlinearities and attenuation, the signal can be effectively transmitted via Free-Space Optical (FSO) communication up to a distance of 8 km, maintaining an acceptable Bit Error Rate (BER) and Q-factor. Additionally, we use OWC and SMF channels to evaluate the Quality factor and bit error rate up to 30 km and 17 km, respectively.