bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analytical solution and spectral structure of the two-photon anisotropic Rabi-Stark model
Authors: Yan Zhanyuan , Cheng Jiaxin , Qiu Fangcheng , Liu Ronghai , Zhao Weiran , Ma Jinying
Published: May 2024

Since the realization of the strong coupling between light and matter in experimental setups, the quantum Rabi model and its generalized models describing the interaction between the boson field and the two-level system have attracted extensive interest again. The study of anisotropic generalized Rabi models enables us to better understand the novel physical properties of the interaction between light and matter in the ultra-strong and deep-strong coupling regions. In this work, the two-photon anisotropic Rabi-Stark model (tpARSM) is analytically solved by using the Bogoliubov operator approach and the su(1, 1) Lie algebra. We derive the G-function, whose zeros give the regular spectrum of the system. By studying the pole structure of the G-function and the coefficients in the function, exceptional solutions, including the first-order quantum phase transition points, doubly degenerate exceptional solutions and nondegenerate exceptional solutions, are obtained. By discussing the spectral structure, we give the conditions for the first-order quantum phase transition of tpARSM. Furthermore, we find that the property that all of the lowest doubly degenerate crossing points in the two-photon Rabi-Stark model have the same energy only holds for the special case of the tpARSM in which the anisotropy parameter is equal to 1. Finally, from the perspective of first-order quantum phase transitions, concise conditions for the ground state energy level to collapse to or escape from the collapse point for the tpARSM are presented. A good understanding of the tpARSM will lay a good foundation for studying the extended two-photon systems involving multiple levels and multiple bosonic modes, and even the relevant open quantum systems.
Identification of heat exchanger process through Hammerstein and polynomial models
Authors: J Jencia , D Hepsiba , L D Vijay Anand
Published: May 2024

Process industries extensively use heat exchangers in their operations, playing a crucial role in various sectors by facilitating efficient heat transfer, conserving energy, and reducing operational costs. This paper focuses on identifying and validating the system model, with the primary task of designing the controller involving the determination of the mathematical representation of the system. The First Order Plus Dead Time (FODT) model, derived from basic principles, is used to represent the system. To analyze the system’s behavior and construct a suitable controller, model development is essential, achieved by constructing principles models using energy balance equations to identify the heat exchanger process. Data collected from the model are utilized in the identification process, with the temperature at the outlet of the hot air blower being the controlled variable in this investigation. The research aims to determine the mathematical model based on time versus temperature data acquired from the Heat Exchanger. Various system identification methods, such as Hammerstein Wiener (HW), Auto Regressive with Exogenous Input (ARX), Box-Jenkins (BJ), Output-Error (OE), and Auto Regressive Moving Average with Exogenous Input (ARMAX) models, are implemented for the heat exchanger. The models obtained undergo validation, and the best-fit model closest to the physical system is considered for controller design. After conducting the analysis, it was found that the Output-Error (OE) model outperforms other models in terms of achieving the best fit.
Affordable and customizable electrospinning set-up based on 3D printed components
Authors: Skoumal V , Pechoušek J , Paralı L , Koç M
Published: May 2024

The widespread use of electrospinning, a technique widely used for fabricating micro/nanofibrous materials, has been limited by the high acquisition costs of commercial equipment. This study introduces an accessible alternative by leveraging 3D-printing technology, providing detailed insights into the design and functionality of each component. Specifically, a cost-effective syringe pump, a rotating collector that allows fiber orientation control, and a user-friendly control unit are described. The affordability and customizability of the proposed setup are emphasized, demonstrating its versatility in accelerating material research. Experimental results on polyvinyl difluoride (PVDF) showcase successful electrospinning, validating the efficacy of the 3D-printed electrospinning device. This innovative solution aims to increase the method’s availability and broader utilization in research and development applications.
Accretion flows around spinning compact objects in the post-Newtonian regime
Authors: Nazari Elham , Mitra Samik , Abbassi Shahram , Das Santabrata
Published: May 2024

We present the structure of a low angular momentum accretion flows around rotating compact objects incorporating relativistic corrections up to the leading post-Newtonian order. To begin with, we formulate the governing post-Newtonian hydrodynamic equations for the mass and energy-momentum flux without imposing any symmetries. However, for the sake of simplicity, we consider the flow to be stationary, axisymmetric, and inviscid. Toward this, we adapt the polytropic equation of state (EoS) and analyze the vertically integrated accretion flow confined to the equatorial plane. It is shown that the spin-orbit effects manifest themselves in the accretion dynamics. In the present analysis, we focus on global transonic accretion solutions, where a subsonic flow enters far away from the compact object and gradually gains radial velocity as it moves inwards. Thus, the flow becomes supersonic after reaching a certain radius, known as the critical point. To better understand the transonic solutions and examine the effect of post-Newtonian corrections, we classify the post-Newtonian equations into semi-relativistic (SR), semi-Newtonian (SN), and non-relativistic (NR) limits and compare the accretion solutions and their corresponding flow variables. With these, we find that SR and SN flow are in good agreement all throughout, although they deviate largely from the NR ones. Interestingly, the density profile seems to follow the profile ρ ∝ r
-3/2 in the post-Newtonian regime. The present study has the potential to connect Newtonian and GR descriptions of accretion dynamics.
Laser frequency stabilization for continuous-wave laser enhanced direct frequency comb spectroscopy system
Authors: Zhang Yichi , Fan Hongyan
Published: May 2024

We present the observation of high-precision direct frequency comb spectroscopy excited by an optical frequency comb and a diode laser when each of them drives one step of the two-photon transition in a rubidium vapor system. We demonstrate a stable and low noise system by directly locking the frequency of the continuous-wave laser to the rubidium two-photon transition. The frequency stability of a diode laser via the two-photon transition locking technique is 8 × 10−11 for a 1 s gate time and 3 × 10−12 for 1000 s. It proves to be a potential technique for locking the diode laser with high stability. We chose a suitable optical frequency comb pulse and the frequency of the diode laser to fulfill the double-resonance condition. These techniques eliminate spectrum line overlap and would benefit spectroscopy measurements.
Detecting secondary spin with extreme mass ratio inspirals in scalar-tensor theory*
Authors: Guo 郭 Hong 弘 , Zhang 张 Chao 超 , Liu 刘 Yunqi 云旗 , Yue 岳 Rui-Hong 瑞宏 , Gong 龚 Yun-Gui 云贵 , Wang 王 Bin 斌
Published: May 2024

In this study, we investigate the detectability of the secondary spin in an extreme mass ratio inspiral (EMRI) system within a modified gravity model coupled with a scalar field. The central black hole, which reduces to a Kerr one, is circularly spiralled by a scalar-charged spinning secondary body on the equatorial plane. The analysis reveals that the presence of the scalar field amplifies the secondary spin effect, allowing for a lower limit of the detectability and an improved resolution of the secondary spin when the scalar charge is sufficiently large. Our findings suggest that secondary spin detection is more feasible when the primary mass is not large, and TianQin is the optimal choice for detection.
Topology of surface electromyogram signals: hand gesture decoding on Riemannian manifolds
Authors: Gowda Harshavardhana T , Miller Lee M
Published: May 2024

Objective. Decoding gestures from the upper limb using noninvasive surface electromyogram (sEMG) signals is of keen interest for the rehabilitation of amputees, artificial supernumerary limb augmentation, gestural control of computers, and virtual/augmented realities. We show that sEMG signals recorded across an array of sensor electrodes in multiple spatial locations around the forearm evince a rich geometric pattern of global motor unit (MU) activity that can be leveraged to distinguish different hand gestures. Approach. We demonstrate a simple technique to analyze spatial patterns of muscle MU activity within a temporal window and show that distinct gestures can be classified in both supervised and unsupervised manners. Specifically, we construct symmetric positive definite covariance matrices to represent the spatial distribution of MU activity in a time window of interest, calculated as pairwise covariance of electrical signals measured across different electrodes. Main results. This allows us to understand and manipulate multivariate sEMG timeseries on a more natural subspace—the Riemannian manifold. Furthermore, it directly addresses signal variability across individuals and sessions, which remains a major challenge in the field. sEMG signals measured at a single electrode lack contextual information such as how various anatomical and physiological factors influence the signals and how their combined effect alters the evident interaction among neighboring muscles. Significance. As we show here, analyzing spatial patterns using covariance matrices on Riemannian manifolds allows us to robustly model complex interactions across spatially distributed MUs and provides a flexible and transparent framework to quantify differences in sEMG signals across individuals. The proposed method is novel in the study of sEMG signals and its performance exceeds the current benchmarks while being computationally efficient.
STRAW-b (STRings for Absorption length in Water-b): the second pathfinder mission for the Pacific Ocean Neutrino Experiment
Authors: Holzapfel K. , Spannfellner C. , Aghaei O. , Baron A. , Bedard J. , Böhmer M. , Bosma J. , Deis N. , Fink C. , Fruck C. , Gärtner A. , Gernhäuser R. , Henningsen F. , Hotte R. , Jenkyns R. , Karl M. , Khera Na. , Khera Ni. , Kulin I. , Lam A. , Lavallee T. , Leismüller K. , Papp L. , Pirenne B. , Price E. , Qiu T. , Rea I.C. , Resconi E. , Round A. , Rott C. , Ruskey A. , Ruohan L. , Sasaki K. , Tradewell M. , Traxler M. , Vivolo D. , Wagner S. , Winter E.L. , Wolf M.
Published: May 2024

Since 2018, the potential for a high-energy neutrino telescope, named the Pacific Ocean Neutrino Experiment (P-ONE), has been thoroughly examined by two pathfinder missions, STRAW and STRAW-b, short for STRAW and STRAW-b. The P-ONE project seeks to install a neutrino detector with a one cubic kilometer volume in the Cascadia Basin's deep marine surroundings, situated near the western shores of Vancouver Island, Canada. To assess the environmental conditions and feasibility of constructing a neutrino detector of that scale, the pathfinder missions, STRAW and STRAW-b, have been deployed at a depth of 2.7 km within the designated site for P-ONE and were connected to the NEPTUNE observatory, operated by Ocean Networks Canada (ONC). While STRAW focused on analyzing the optical properties of water in the Cascadia Basin, STRAW-b employed cameras and spectrometers to investigate the characteristics of bioluminescence in the deep-sea environment. This report introduces the STRAW-b concept, covering its scientific objectives and the instrumentation used. Furthermore, it discusses the design considerations implemented to guarantee a secure and dependable deployment process of STRAW-b. Additionally, it showcases the data collected by battery-powered loggers, which monitored the mechanical stress on the equipment throughout the deployment. The report also offers an overview of STRAW-b's operation, with a specific emphasis on the notable advancements achieved in the data acquisition (DAQ) system and its successful integration with the server infrastructure of ONC.
Flipping of temperature and precipitation trends over the Indian subcontinent due to diametrically opposing influence of GHGs and aerosols
Authors: Shilin Anokha , Ghosh Subimal , Karmakar Subhankar
Published: May 2024

Despite significant development in the Earth system models (ESMs) and releases of several coupled model intercomparison projects (CMIPs), the evolving patterns of Indian summer monsoon rainfall and its future trajectory is still uncertain, with low confidence in its direction. This could be because of differential impacts from increasing greenhouse gas (GHG) and aerosol concentrations. We found that the observed pre-2000 (1951–2000) declining monsoon was likely attributed to the increasing aerosol concentrations. On the contrary, the reported revival of post-2000 monsoon rainfall is due to GHG dominance. These are spatiotemporally consistent with individual CMIP Phase 6 (CMIP6) ESM simulations with GHG and aerosols separately. Similar results were obtained for temperature in India, which showed no to low warming signal in pre-2000 due to aerosol-driven cooling. The dominance of GHG impacts has increased India’s warming trend in post-2000. This research highlights a notable trend in temperature and precipitation across the Indian subcontinent during the past two decades, emphasizing the dynamic character of climate change explained by contrasting anthropogenic influences, including GHGs and aerosols.
Understanding compound extreme precipitations preconditioned by heatwaves over China under climate change
Authors: Liu Jiahe , Chen Jie , Yin Jiabo , Su Tianhua , Xiong Lihua , Xia Jun
Published: May 2024

Compared with individual heatwaves or storm events, the compound extreme precipitations preconditioned by heatwaves (CHEPs) usually amplify their adverse repercussions on both ecosystems and society. However, little is known about the physical mechanisms of generations, especially considering precipitation types triggered by various factors and synoptic patterns. By classifying extreme precipitations based on duration, we conduct an event-based analysis and comprehensively assess CHEPs using the machine learning-constrained framework and binning scaling methods over China. We find the fraction of CHEPs to total extreme short-duration/long-duration precipitations (ESDPs/ELDPs) has substantially increased by 18%/15% from 1979 to 2021, when using dry-bulb temperature to identify heatwaves. More notably, the hotspots of CHEPs are generally consistent with those of ESDPs. The ESDPs play a dominant role in shaping CHEPs episodes, which are governed by enhancing atmospheric instability due to preconditioned heatwaves. The horizontal moisture advection and transient vertical dynamic motion of moisture, which are paramount to LDPs, is not significantly enhanced by the overheating atmosphere, leading to a small fraction of LDPs to CHEPs. In addition, the intensity of ESDPs tends to increase with air temperature at higher rates than that of ELDPs. As short-duration storms may trigger severe flash floods, ample attention should be paid to the escalating risks of CHEPs under climate change.
Heat transport into the interior ocean induced by water-mass subduction
Authors: Liu Lingling , Li Yuanlong , Wang Fan , Ren Qiuping
Published: May 2024

The subduction of oceanic water masses provides a crucial pathway for anthropogenic heat to enter the subsurface ocean, thereby shaping deep-reaching warming signatures. Analyzing data from eight ocean and atmosphere reanalysis datasets, we show that the average annual subduction rate of the global ocean (excluding 10° S–10° N) is 312.4 ± 27.9 Sv, resulting in a mean heat transport of 20.2 ± 2.1 PW towards the subsurface ocean. This subduction-driven heat transport has exhibited an increase of 0.09 ± 0.08 PW/decade since 1970. The increase predominantly stems from the overall enhancement of subduction within the latitudes of 30° S–50° S, dictated by intensified westerly winds that lead to the deepening of the local mixed layer depth. Our findings underscore the essence of wind-driven changes in the Southern Ocean subduction, which wield considerable influence over the global climate by regulating the vertical transport of heat and carbon from the sea surface to the deep waters.
Motion Detection System Using Passive Infrared Technology
Authors: Amuta E.O. , Sobola G.O. , Eseabasi O. , Dike H. N. , Matthew S. , Agbetuyi A.F. , Wara S. T.
Published: May 2024

Having technology around us that can be used for household and entertainment purposes to signal any potential threat in our surroundings and trigger alerts is vital. The study designed a technology that is aimed at providing security to the environment and properties since it can detect movement at a certain angle and also give an alert. The system used a Passive infrared radiation (PIR) module HC-SR501 to detect motion and an Arduino uno microcontroller unit (MCU) to process and control the sensor data. The PIR sensors detect infrared radiation emitted by moving objects, such as human beings or animals. Several tests showed that the system performed well under different conditions, with the PIR sensor able to detect motion at different sensitivities distances, and angles. The designed prototype system reveals that our environment, properties, and even human lives can be secured, hence the technology can be deployed as a surveillance. However, the limitation could be power outages from public utilities, in terms of functionality.
In silico studies of benzimidazole derivatives as sustainable inhibitors against Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Ogunnupebi T A , Oduselu G O , Elebiju O F , Ajani O O , Adebiyi E
Published: May 2024

Antimicrobial resistance is becoming more rampant in our world today, and different measures are being taken to combat this challenge. Benzimidazoles are classified as heterocyclic compounds with notable pharmacological properties. As a result, benzimidazole has been combined with other compounds that have remarkable actions to create a more potent molecule. Exploring these substances to combat antibacterial resistance would therefore aid in achieving good health and wellbeing and promote sustainable development. Predicting the effectiveness of the compounds before manufacturing and clinical testing has made drug design easy. This study employs in silico methods like molecular docking to investigate alternate antibacterial agents from a library of benzimidazole derivatives. A library of compounds with a benzimidazole template was screened against the three-dimensional (3D) structure of peptidoglycan transpeptidase (PPB2A) of Staphylococcus aureus. Two binding sites were identified in the protein: the main site and the allosteric site. Molecular docking was done on the main and allosteric sites to obtain free binding energy ranging from -7.3 to -5.8 and -4.9 to -4.5 kcal/mol, respectively. The predictive Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion, and Toxicity (ADMET) experiments were done on the compounds to ascertain their safety. The results were compared to those of known antibiotics, and the compounds performed effectively. The benzimidazole derivative can be adopted as a prospective antibacterial agent with an alternative pathway for combating resistance issues and enhancing the quality of health and well-being globally.
Design of Potential Inhibitors of Pf5-ALAS in Liver Stage Plasmodium falciparum: A Sustainable Chemotherapeutic Approach to Address Antimalarial Resistance
Authors: Elebiju O. F. , Oduselu G. O. , Ogunnupebi T. A. , Ajani O. O. , Adebiyi E.
Published: May 2024

Plasmodium falciparum delta-aminolevulinate synthase (Pf5-ALAS) is the first enzyme in the heme biosynthetic pathway, and it is a liver stage specific enzyme in the developmental stages of Plasmodium falciparum. 8-amino quinoline derivatives have been reported to be active against liver stage parasite and hence was used as a template in the design of 12 derivatives as sustainable chemotherapeutics that were screened in this study designed as potential inhibitors of Pf5-ALAS. The target was modelled due to the unavailability of its experimentally validated 3-dimensional (3D) structure. The binding energy of all 12 designed compounds ranged from -7.9 to -9.1 Kcal/mol which all performed better than primaquine a known inhibitor of liver stage malaria. All twelve designed compounds had comparatively good pharmacokinetic profiles and did not present a toxicity risk, according to in silico ADMET prediction. The position and presence of a functional group that introduces a synergistic impact and subsequently raises the binding energy are highlighted in the qualitative structural assessment of the top three hits. This might pave way to highly economical new antimalarial therapeutic for sustainability health and wellbeing in sub-Saharan Africa and beyond.
Evaluation Of the Antifungal Activity of Cassia fistula (Linn) On Phytopathogenic Fungi Isolated from Citrus sinensis
Authors: Oniha M. I. , Onunkwo O. A. , Oyejide S. O. , Ajayi A. A. , Taiwo O. S. , Ahuekwe E.F. , Isibor P. O. , Omonigbehin C. A.
Published: May 2024

Citrus sinensis is a prominent tropical fruit with nutritional and economic benefits for humans. However, it can also be plagued by fungal diseases, causing global economic and production reduction. The extensive application of synthetic fungicides in agricultural systems has posed increased toxicological risks to humans and ecosystems. However, the varying phytochemicals found in medicinal plants have enabled them to be regarded as safe and effective alternatives. However, few studies have evaluated the use of Cassia fistula extracts as potential bio-fungicides. This research purposed to evaluate the antifungal activity of Cassia fistula leaflet extracts against phytopathogenic fungi. Ethanol as well as aqueous extracts of Cassia fistula leaves were assessed for antifungal activity. The agar well-diffusion technique was implemented for in vitro screening, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) of all different extracts against isolated fungal species of Aspergillus, Penicillium and Geotrichum. All fungal isolates identified from the spoiled oranges were Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus fumigatus, Geotrichum sp. and Fusarium sp. Preliminary phytochemical screening exhibited the presence of carbohydrates, terpenoids, quinones and saponins in both ethanolic and aqueous extracts. At 1000 mg/ml, the aqueous and ethanolic extracts had the highest antifungal activity against A. flavus (40 mm) and Fusarium sp. (38 mm), respectively. Both extracts had no antifungal activity against A. fumigatus at 62.5 mg/ml but zones of inhibition were observed from the positive and negative controls of ketoconazole and DMSO, respectively. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) were evaluated at 62.5 mg/ml and 250 mg/ml, respectively. This study’s findings demonstrated the antifungal potential of C. fistula leaf extracts as a bio-fungicidal agent against fungal invasion in plants.
Influence of Rice Straw Ash on Workability and Strength of Concrete
Authors: Ezenkwa C. S. , Ede A. N. , Ogbaga C. K.
Published: May 2024

Cement manufacturing is a major contributor to the waste of energy as about 3.4GJ of thermal energy is needed to produce 1 tonne of Portland cement, not to mention the emissions of greenhouse gases like carbon di oxide due to the calcination of limestone during Portland cement production. These emissions have caused a dramatic rise in global warming. There is a pressing need for innovative recycling technology that can reduce the negative effects of waste on ecosystems and people. Rice straws are the waste produced after the threshing of rice. The goal of this study is to investigate the influence of rice straw ash on workability and strength of concrete. The rice straw used was the straw of a specific rice variety locally called mass I gotten from Akpugo, Enugu, Nigeria. The rice straw was calcined by open burning to produce the rice straw ash (RSA). The materials used were preliminary tested to determine their physical properties and chemical composition. The rice straw ash was used to replace Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) at 0, 5, 10, 15, 20 and 30% respectively. The workability and compressive strength test were done for all replacement levels. Using slump test, the concrete workability was evaluated. For this study, 72 cubes were cast, cured in water for 7, 14, 21, and 28days before been tested under compression. From the investigation, percentage increase in RSA replacement decreased the concrete workability. The sample containing 0%, 5%, and 10% RSA attained 9%, 6.1% and 2.2% more strength compared to the design strength at 28th day of curing. While the 15%, 20% and 30% attained 17.3%, 28.9% and 67.6% lower strength compared to the design strength at 28th day of curing. The experimental result was analysed using statistical product and service solution (SPSS) and excel spreadsheet regression (ESR). This study suggests that the optimum replacement level of rice straw ash from structural reinforced grade 25 concrete point of view is 10%. The predictive models were tested and found to be adequate.
The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR): Enhancing the Roles of Women in the Construction Industry
Authors: Tunji-Olayeni P , Aigbavboa C , Oke A , Adejola F
Published: May 2024

The fourth industrial revolution proposes a better work pattern which connects physical and virtual spaces, thereby providing flexible working hours, better working conditions and improved safety that is appealing to women. This is particularly important for women in physically demanding fields such as construction. However, little is known about the specific roles of construction women in the fourth industrial revolution. This paper sets out to fill this gap by assessing the roles of construction women in the 4IR. It uses questionnaire survey to obtain responses from women construction professionals in Lagos, Nigeria. From the survey analysis, the main roles of construction women were in building construction areas where women have created a niche for themselves as a result of male domination, physically demanding and unsafe nature of construction. Theoretically, this study contributes to knowledge on women and the 4IR. It also enhances our understanding of the roles of construction women in the 4IR. Practically, the findings provide information for the development of effective 4IR skill programs for construction women in the study area.
Residents’ Satisfaction with Neighbourhood Socio-economic Environment of the Public Sector Employee Housing Schemes in Lagos State, Nigeria
Authors: Akinola A. O. , Ibem E.O. , Opoko A.P. , Oluwatayo A.A. , Aduwo E. B. , Ugah U.K.
Published: May 2024

One of the major strategies implemented by both the private and public sectors in the provision of mass housing for their workers in Nigeria is the employee housing scheme. However, not much is known about the occupants’ satisfaction with neighborhood Socio-economic environment of housing provided through this scheme in a large metropolitan area such as Lagos State, where several housing estates have been developed under this scheme. Satisfaction with neighborhood socio-economic environment in nine public-sector employee housing estates in Lagos State, Nigeria was explored. A cross-sectional survey research design involving quantitative research approach was adopted. The survey was carried out between September, 2020 and March, 2021. Using Stratified Sampling, the estates/locations were grouped into Local government areas. Cluster sampling technique was used to select the local governments areas. Also, purposive technique was used to select 688 housing units in the nine purposively selected housing estates. Out of 688 questionnaires administered, about 500 copies of the administered questionnaire were correctly filled and returned by the participants and the information were subjected to descriptive statistics. Statistical package for Social Science(SPSS) was used to analyze the data. The results pointed out that the key respondents were most pleased with the extent of safe keeping of lives and property in the estate, outdoor air quality in the estate, extent of religious activities in the estate and least pleased with extent of collective activities in the estate, extent of noise in the housing estates and price of services and goods within and around the estate. Therefore, to improve neighborhood socio-economic environment satisfaction, residents in public sector employee housing schemes should give priority attention to the key features that ensure residents’ satisfaction in existing and future housing projects.
A review of sustainable housing preferences and affordability
Authors: Mushanga S , Oloke O C , Olukanni D O
Published: May 2024

The review examined the potential connections between sustainable housing, and sustainable affordability of such housing while meeting the housing preferences of various households. It is widely known that many lower-income countries are facing a housing crisis, and it is crucial to address this issue by providing affordable housing that meets individual needs while also promoting environmentally friendly living. This review paper Is centered on the research question: How can sustainable housing be made more affordable and accessible to all households while meeting their housing preferences? A qualitative study of 66 publications from 2019 to September 2023 found that sustainable housing offers ecological and energy-efficient benefits, but there are barriers to scaling up these models, including economic, cultural, and legal challenges. Housing preferences are influenced by factors such as cost, location, and amenities, with affordability being a significant concern. While environmental and economic sustainability can positively impact housing prices in turn affect the affordability of such housing, the initial investment costs can be challenging for lower-middle-income households. The review further established that Sustainable housing, housing preference, and affordability are broad topics that have been explored by many researchers. However, there are still some research gaps that need to be addressed. There is a significant gap in how sustainable housing can be made affordable to all households while meeting their housing preference hence the need to explore the intersection between sustainable housing, housing preference, and affordability by carrying out empirical research to identify ways in which sustainable housing can be designed and built to meet the needs and preferences of low-income households while remaining affordable.
Assessment of Selected Agroclimatic Indices on Maize Yield Forecasting Under Climate Change in Nigeria
Authors: Olasehinde D. A. , Adeniran K. A. , Ogunrinde A. T. , Abioye O. M. , Okunola A. A.
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the relationship between climate, agroclimatic indices, and maize yield in Nigeria, focusing on diverse agroecological zones. Climate change is poised to significantly impact agricultural output. Analysis of historical data reveals varying sensitivities to weather changes in Nigeria’s agroecological regions. Regional climate impact assessments typically use annual statistical models, which may not capture sub-seasonal weather variations and often assume a constant relationship between crops and weather. Crop yield anomalies were created to remove non-weather-related influences from a time series dataset. Also, agroclimatic indices were incorporated into forecasting models as inputs to offer more relevant information for estimating crop output. The research demonstrates the critical role of climate factors such as rainfall in March and minimum temperatures in shaping maize yield in Nigeria. By expanding the scope to include a broader range of climate-related elements, this study has illustrated how incorporating agroclimatic indices into crop yield forecasting models can enhance forecast accuracy and reliability. The study reveals that different agroecological zones may face varied outcomes with regions in the south recording more negative maize yield anomalies as oppose to the north. The research underscores the complexity of the relationship between climate, agroclimatic indices, and crop yield in Nigeria. It provides essential insights for policymakers, farmers, and researchers to make informed decisions and develop strategies for ensuring food security and agricultural sustainability in the midst of a changing climate in Nigeria.
Retrograde Assemblages in the Muscovite-Biotite Gneiss of Oluyole Southwestern Nigeria, an Indication of Shear-Zone Environment
Authors: Oziegbe E. J. , Babarinde S. A. , Oziegbe O. , Kayode O. T.
Published: May 2024

Petrographic and whole-rock geochemical study of biotite-muscovite gneiss was determined in order to interpret the metamorphic evolution of the Basement Complex of Southwestern, Nigeria. The gneiss shows a millimetric banding, and in some cases the quartzo-feldspathic bands running up to 10 cm. The gneiss has mineral assemblage biotite + plagioclase + quartz + garnet + K-feldspar + muscovite + chlorite + ilmenite ±titanite. Chlorite occurs along cleavage planes of biotite, and in some cases forms reaction rims around porphyroblasts of garnet. K-feldspar crystals are surrounded by muscovite. Titanite crystals are sub-idioblastic to xenoblastic in form, and have inclusions of ilmenite. Titanite, where present, occurs in close association with biotite and opaque minerals (ilmenite). Also, titanite forms a reaction rim around apatite. Mylonitic texture, fine-grained matrix of mica and quartz ribbons were observed. In addition, there is stretching of the quartz crystals. The SiO2 content is greater than 60 wt %, while CaO ranges from 3.05-6.91 wt %. The M1 foliation comprise of mineral biotite some of which are included in the opaque mineral, M2 represents the metamorphism which gave rise to porphyroblasts of ilmenite, while the M3 gave rise to foliations that forms a wraparound structure on the porphyroblasts of ilmenite. The last metamorphism gave rise to retrograde minerals; chlorite, titanite, and muscovite. The study suggests that this area of the Basement Complex has been subjected to multiple deformations, as well as multiple episodes of metamorphism. The structures observed are similar to those associated with shear zone environment.
Sustainable approach of biological treatment of landfill leachate by Anaerobic Ammonium Oxidation: A review
Authors: Murhunzi B. A. , Olukanni D.O. , Oyegbile B. A.
Published: May 2024

An upsurge in living standards, rising industrialization and urbanization, the protection of water environment has become a priority. Anaerobic ammonium oxidation process has drawn a lot of attention since it demonstrated substantial advantages over conventional nitrogen removal techniques, including a 100% reduction in the amount of organic carbon required, a 60% reduction in the amount of aeration needed, and a 90% reduction in the amount of sludge produced. Effective treatment of landfill leachate is extremely important as leachate is a threat to the environment. Municipal waste management is still a challenging situation in developing countries. Uncontrolled waste disposal results in greenhouse gases emissions which worsens climate change as the leachate will pollute water bodies, soil and a significant air pollution which impacts on human health will be released. This paper reviewed several published research works in Scopus dealing with the leachate treatment by Anammox process combined with some other systems and highlighted some common challenges found with the application of this new technology. Treating landfill leachate resulted in an excellent ammonium NH4
+-N removal efficiency. However, it has been highlighted that most of the research reviewed reported some limitations of the technology on a small scale such as the low start-up time affecting the growth of bacteria in the reactors and the instability of the system when pH and temperature decrease. Biological treatment, Anammox method included, offers a cost-effective, eco-friendly, and an effective solution for nitrogen removal.
Enhanced anti-breast cancer activity of green synthesized selenium nanoparticles by PEGylation: induction of apoptosis and potential anticancer drug delivery system
Authors: Al-Qaraleh Samer Y , Al-Zereini Wael A , Oran Sawsan A , Al-Madanat Osama Y , Al-Qtaitat Aiman I , Alahmad Abdalrahim
Published: May 2024

Breast cancer is a disease associated with high morbidity and mortality rates worldwide. The potential use of biogenic nanoparticles as alternative anticancer agents has been immensely acknowledged in several studies, particularly selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs). Nanoparticles were synthesised using the aqueous extract of Moringa peregrine (MPM-SeNPs) and were PEGylated (PEG-MPM-SeNPs). MPM-SeNPs were characterised by chemical and physical techniques. The successful capping of MPM-SeNPs with PEG was confirmed by spectrophotometric measurements and via Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) analysis. Furthermore, the effect of PEGylation of MPM-SeNPs on enhancing their anti-breast cancer activity and as a drug delivery agent was evaluated. Therefore, the loading efficiency and release of DOX at different pH values were measured; the antiproliferative activity of PEG-MPM-SeNPs against the adenocarcinoma breast cancer cell line (MDA-MB-231) was evaluated and compared with that of biogenic MPM-SeNPs and DOX-conjugated PEG-MPM-SeNPs. PEG-MPM-SeNPs and DOX-PEG-MPM-SeNPs had reduced IC50 values compared to MPM-SeNPs; IC50 of 11.54 ± 1.74 and 31.27 ± 2.9 μg mL−1 compared to 71.4 ± 3.4 μg mL−1, respectively. MPM-SeNPs and PEG-MPM-SeNPs caused apoptosis to MDA-MB-231 cells with a significant decrease in the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), increase in the released cytochrome C (Cyt C), and activation of caspase-3/9 (P < 0.05). Linking DOX to PEG-MPM-SeNPs led to an increase in caspase-3/8 concentrations and an increase in the released Cyt C, but there were non-significant differences in MMP (P > 0.1) between treated and untreated control cancer cells. MPM-SeNPs and PEG-MPM-SeNPs caused apoptotic reactions via an intrinsic pathway, while linking DOX to PEG-MPM-SeNPs caused apoptosis in cancer cells through an extrinsic pathway.
Exact surface measurement based on phase error insensitive method for white-light scanning interferometer
Authors: Ji Changsheng , Luo Songjie , Sasaki Osami , Chen Ziyang , Pu Jixiong
Published: May 2024

Phase error induced by the scanning error of piezoelectric transducer and vibration in white-light interference signal (WLIS) impose limitations on measurement accuracy. In this paper, two techniques are investigated to eliminate phase error cooperatively. A monochromatic interferometer owning the same optical path as the white-light scanning interferometer (WLSI) is employed to detect and compensate the phase error. Due to the incomplete consistency between the detected phase error and its actual distribution, an algorithm is introduced to further enhance the measurement accuracy. The simulation is given to prove the proposed method is available in different magnitude of noise. In the experiment, the front surface of wedged window is measured, whose maximum fluctuations are reduced to 28.8 nm and 3.0 nm from 62.7 nm with the gradual application of two technologies, and the repeatability reach 5.0 nm and 0.4 nm from 16.8 nm, respectively. The root mean square height S

q
and maximum height S

z
ultimately decrease to 1.3 nm and 1.6 nm. The measurement of step with height of about 3.0 μm also has the good accuracy and repeatability after phase error elimination. Since the different reflectivity of measured surfaces in the wavelength range of light source will also bring the measurement error, its influences are analyzed by simulation. The proposed techniques provide a phase error insensitive method for WLSI that has potential on measurement in the complex environment.
Enhanced thermal stability of amorphous Al-Fe alloys by addition of Ce and Mn
Authors: Nguyen Hong Hai , Oanh Nguyen Thi Hoang , Hoang Viet Nguyen
Published: May 2024

The thermal stability of mechanically alloyed amorphous Al-Fe-based alloy powders, with nominal compositions Al82Fe16Ce2 and Al82Fe14Mn2Ce2, was investigated using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), x-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) complemented by energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDX). Analysis through DSC indicated that both Al82Fe16Ce2 and Al82Fe14Mn2Ce2 alloys undergo a two-stage crystallization process. Notably, the initial crystallization temperatures for the Al82Fe16Ce2 and Al82Fe14Mn2Ce2 alloys were determined to be approximately 525 °C and 550 °C, respectively. This high thermal stability is attributed to the delayed nucleation process induced by the presence of Ce and Mn within the Al-Fe matrix. During polymorphic crystallization, distinct phases such as β-AlFe, Al13Fe4 for Al82Fe16Ce2, and β-Al(Fe, Mn), Al13Fe4, Al10CeMn2 for Al82Fe14Mn2Ce2 were identified. Furthermore, post-annealing of these amorphous alloy powders at elevated temperatures of 600, 700, and 800 °C led to distinct morphological characteristics based on the alloy composition. For Al82Fe16Ce2, the particles preserved a nearly spherical morphology, with size distributions ranging from 1 to 5 μm. In contrast, for Al82Fe14Mn2Ce2, the particles exhibited an irregular shape with a broader size range of 1 to 15 μm.
Mechanistic study on 4, 4'-sulfonylbis removal with CO2/Ar gas-liquid DBD plasma
Authors: WANG 王 Guangjia 广佳 , FANG 方 Shidong 世东 , LIN 林 Baoguo 保国 , ZHU 朱 Chengzhu 承驻 , SHEN 沈 Jie 洁
Published: May 2024

In this study, a single dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) coaxial reactor was used to degrade 4, 4'-sulfonylbis (TBBPS) in water using greenhouse gas (CO2) and argon as the carrier gases. The investigation focused on CO2 conversion, reactive species formation, gas-liquid mass transfer mechanism, and degradation mechanism of TBBPS during the discharge plasma process. With the decrease of CO2/Ar ratio in the process of plasma discharge, the emission spectrum intensity of Ar, CO2 and excited reactive species was enhanced. This increase promoted collision and dissociation of CO2, resulting in a series of chemical reactions that improved the production of reactive species such as ·OH, 1O2, H2O2 and O3. These reactive species initiated a sequence of reactions with TBBPS. Results indicated that at a gas flow rate of 240 mL/min with a CO2/Ar ratio of 1:5, both the highest CO2 conversion rate (17.76%) and TBBPS degradation rate (94.24%) were achieved. The degradation mechanism was elucidated by determining types and contents of reactive species present in treatment liquid along with analysis of intermediate products using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry techniques. This research provides novel insights into carbon dioxide utilization and water pollution control through dielectric barrier discharge plasma technology.
Research on batch multielement rapid quantitative analysis based on the standard curve-assisted calibration-free laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy method
Authors: HAN 韩 Weiwei 伟伟 , SUN 孙 Duixiong 对兄 , ZHANG 张 Guoding 国鼎 , WANG 王 Honglin 鸿麟 , GUO 郭 Kai 凯 , ZHANG 张 Yuzhuo 宇卓 , WANG 王 Haoliang 浩亮 , ZHANG 张 Denghong 登红 , DONG 董 Chenzhong 晨钟 , SU 苏 Maogen 茂根
Published: May 2024

This study proposes a batch rapid quantitative analysis method for multiple elements by combining the advantages of standard curve (SC) and calibration-free laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (CF-LIBS) technology to achieve synchronous, rapid, and accurate measurement of elements in a large number of samples, namely, SC-assisted CF-LIBS. Al alloy standard samples, divided into calibration and test samples, were applied to validate the proposed method. SC was built based on the characteristic line of Pb and Cr in the calibration sample, and the contents of Pb and Cr in the test sample were calculated with relative errors of 6% and 4%, respectively. SC built using Cr with multiple characteristic lines yielded better calculation results. The relative contents of ten elements in the test sample were calculated using CF-LIBS. Subsequently, the SC-assisted CF-LIBS was executed, with the majority of the calculation relative errors falling within the range of 2%–5%. Finally, the Al and Na contents of the Al alloy were predicted. The results demonstrate that it effectively enables the rapid and accurate quantitative analysis of multiple elements after a single-element SC analysis of the tested samples. Furthermore, this quantitative analysis method was successfully applied to soil and Astragalus samples, realizing an accurate calculation of the contents of multiple elements. Thus, it is important to advance the LIBS quantitative analysis and its related applications.
Feminist political communication in the Global South—an introduction to the special issue
Authors: Cabas-Mijares Ayleen , Adetutu Omotoso Sharon
Published: May 2024

In this introductory section of the special issue titled “Feminist Political Communication in the Global South” the editors make the case for the broader recognition and deeper examination of feminist political communication across the Global South. Women’s and feminist movements in this context have developed situated knowledges and strategies that make them distinct from the hegemonic (neo)liberal feminisms of the Global North. Furthermore, the recent successes of Global South feminisms demonstrate their ability to influence national and transnational politics in ways that expand freedoms and rights for marginalized constituencies across the world. This special issue offers a glimpse into some of these movements and their political communications, showcasing the political and theoretical value of feminist and women’s rights advocacy.
Structural color control by remote electrical manipulation of chiral dopant molecules in a chiral nematic phase
Authors: Kishikawa Keiki , Fukuda Daiki , Takayashiki Kazuto , Kohri Michinari
Published: May 2024

1,2-Bis((cholesteryloxy)octyloxy)-4-nitrobenzene was synthesized as a chiral dopant that exhibited electroresponsiveness in nematic liquid crystal (LC) phases. Even in a nonelectroresponsive host nematic LC, the helical pitch of the chiral nematic phase, generated by doping the chiral dopant molecules, could be altered in response to an external electric field, thus controlling the selective reflection color.