bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Natural language processing and network analysis provide novel insights on policy and scientific discourse around Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Smith Thomas Bryan , Vacca Raffaele , Mantegazza Luca , Capua Ilaria
Published: November 2021

The United Nations’ (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are heterogeneous and interdependent, comprising 169 targets and 231 indicators of sustainable development in such diverse areas as health, the environment, and human rights. Existing efforts to map relationships among SDGs are either theoretical investigations of sustainability concepts, or empirical analyses of development indicators and policy simulations. We present an alternative approach, which describes and quantifies the complex network of SDG interdependencies by applying computational methods to policy and scientific documents. Methods of Natural Language Processing are used to measure overlaps in international policy discourse around SDGs, as represented by the corpus of all existing UN progress reports about each goal (N = 85 reports). We then examine if SDG interdependencies emerging from UN discourse are reflected in patterns of integration and collaboration in SDG-related science, by analyzing data on all scientific articles addressing relevant SDGs in the past two decades (N = 779,901 articles). Results identify a strong discursive divide between environmental goals and all other SDGs, and unexpected interdependencies between SDGs in different areas. While UN discourse partially aligns with integration patterns in SDG-related science, important differences are also observed between priorities emerging in UN and global scientific discourse. We discuss implications and insights for scientific research and policy on sustainable development after COVID-19.
Impact of cavotricuspid isthmus depth on the ablation index for successful first-pass typical atrial flutter ablation
Authors: Kashiwagi Manabu , Kuroi Akio , Katayama Yosuke , Terada Kosei , Fujita Suwako , Hozumi Takeshi , Shimamura Kunihiro , Shiono Yasutsugu , Tanimoto Takashi , Kubo Takashi , Tanaka Atsushi , Akasaka Takashi
Published: November 2021

Cavotricuspid isthmus (CTI) linear ablation has been established as the treatment for typical atrial flutter. Recently, ablation index (AI) has emerged as a novel marker for estimating ablation lesions. We investigated the relationship between CTI depth and ablation parameters on the procedural results of typical atrial flutter ablation. A total of 107 patients who underwent CTI ablation were retrospectively enrolled in this study. All patients underwent computed tomography before catheter ablation. From the receiver-operating curve, the best cut-off value of CTI depth was < 4.1 mm to predict first-pass success. Although the average AI was not different between deep CTI (DC; CTI depth ≥ 4.1) and shallow CTI (SC; CTI depth < 4.1), DC required a longer ablation time and showed a lower first-pass success rate (p < 0.01). In addition, the catheter inversion technique was more frequently required in the DC (p < 0.01). The lowest AI sites of the first-pass CTI line were determined in both the ventricular (2/3 segment of CTI) and inferior vena cava (IVC, 1/3 segment of CTI) sides. The best cut-off values of the weakest AIs at the ventricular and IVC sides for predicting first-pass success were > 420 and > 386, respectively. Among patients with these cut-off values, the first-pass success rate was 89% in the SC and 50% in the DC (p < 0.01). Although ablation parameters were not significantly different, the first-pass success rate was lower in the DC than in the SC. Further investigation might be required for better outcomes in deep CTIs.
Spontaneous eye blinking as a diagnostic marker in prolonged disorders of consciousness
Authors: Magliacano Alfonso , Rosenfelder Martin , Hieber Nina , Bender Andreas , Estraneo Anna , Trojano Luigi
Published: November 2021

Clinical diagnosis of patients with prolonged disorders of consciousness is very challenging. As spontaneous eye blink rate (EBR) is reliably correlated with cognitive activity in healthy individuals, we investigated whether EBR could serve as a marker of patients’ level of consciousness. We assessed ten patients in prolonged Vegetative State/Unresponsive Wakefulness Syndrome (VS/UWS; three females; mean age = 50.3 ± 17.8 years) and fourteen patients in Minimally Conscious State (MCS; three females; mean age = 52.9 ± 17.5 years) at their admission to a rehabilitation unit after the acute phase. During two separate 3-min rest conditions, we recorded patients’ EBR by integrating on-line visual and off-line electro-oculographic count. We also assessed EBR during two auditory oddball tasks, i.e. passive listening and active counting of target tones in a sub-group of patients. EBR was significantly higher in MCS than in VS/UWS; moreover, EBR positively correlated with a validated index of responsiveness derived from the Coma Recovery Scale-Revised. Patients’ mean EBR showed no significant differences within sessions and across experimental conditions of the oddball task, in both VS/UWS and MCS. Our findings suggest that, at least in the post-acute phase, observing patients’ EBR for 3 min at rest could help to discriminate between VS/UWS and MCS, improving accuracy of clinical diagnosis.
Oral vaccination of piglets against Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae using silica SBA-15 as an adjuvant effectively reduced consolidation lung lesions at slaughter
Authors: Mechler-Dreibi Marina L. , Almeida Henrique M. S. , Sonalio Karina , Martines Mariela A. C. , Petri Fernando A. M. , Zambotti Beatriz B. , Ferreira Marcela M. , Storino Gabriel Y. , Martins Tereza S. , Montassier Hélio J. , Sant’Anna Osvaldo A. , Fantini Márcia C. A. , de Oliveira Luís Guilherme
Published: November 2021

Mycoplasma (M.) hyopneumoniae is the main pathogen of porcine enzootic pneumonia (PEP). Its controlling is challenging, and requires alternative strategies. This study aimed to develop an oral vaccine against M. hyopneumoniae using a nanostructured mesoporous silica (SBA-15) as an adjuvant, and compare its effect with an intramuscular (IM) commercial vaccine (CV). Fifty 24 day-old M. hyopneumoniae-free piglets composed five equal groups for different immunization protocols, consisting of a CV and/or oral immunization (OI). Control piglets did not receive any form of immunization. All piglets were challenged with M. hyopneumoniae strain 232 on D49 by tracheal route. IgA antibody response in the respiratory tract, bacterial shedding and serum IgG were evaluated. The piglets were euthanized on 28 (D77) and 56 (D105) days post-infection. Lung lesions were macroscopically evaluated; lung fragments and bronchoalveolar fluid (BALF) were collected for estimation of bacterial loads by qPCR and/or histopathology examination. All immunization protocols induced reduction on Mycoplasma-like macroscopic lung lesions. IgA Ab responses anti-M. hyopneumoniae, the expression of IL-4 cytokine and a lower expression of IL-8 were induced by CV and OI vaccines, while IgG was induced only by CV. Oral immunization using silica as a carrier-adjuvant can be viable in controlling M. hyopneumoniae infection.
Population receptive fields of human primary visual cortex organised as DC-balanced bandpass filters
Authors: Kristensen Daniel Gramm , Sandberg Kristian
Published: November 2021

The response to visual stimulation of population receptive fields (pRF) in the human visual cortex has been modelled with a Difference of Gaussians model, yet many aspects of their organisation remain poorly understood. Here, we examined the mathematical basis and signal-processing properties of this model and argue that the DC-balanced Difference of Gaussians (DoG) holds a number of advantages over a DC-biased DoG. Through functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) pRF mapping, we compared performance of DC-balanced and DC-biased models in human primary visual cortex and found that when model complexity is taken into account, the DC-balanced model is preferred. Finally, we present evidence indicating that the BOLD signal DC offset contains information related to the processing of visual stimuli. Taken together, the results indicate that V1 pRFs are at least frequently organised in the exact constellation that allows them to function as bandpass filters, which makes the separation of stimulus contrast and luminance possible. We further speculate that if the DoG models stimulus contrast, the DC offset may reflect stimulus luminance. These findings suggest that it may be possible to separate contrast and luminance processing in fMRI experiments and this could lead to new insights on the haemodynamic response.
Radiocesium in the Taiwan Strait and the Kuroshio east of Taiwan from 2018 to 2019
Authors: Huang Wei-Jen , Lee Ming-Ta , Huang Kuei-Chen , Kao Kai-Jung , Lee Ming-An , Yang Yiing-Jang , Jan Sen , Chen Chen-Tung Arthur
Published: November 2021

The release of anthropogenic radiocesium to the North Pacific Ocean (NPO) has occurred in the past 60 years. Factors controlling 137Cs (half-life, 30.2 year) and 134Cs (half-life, 2.06 year) activity concentrations in the Kuroshio east of Taiwan and the Taiwan Strait (latitude 20° N–27° N, longitude 116° E–123° E) remain unclear. This study collected seawater samples throughout this region and analyzed 134Cs and 137Cs activity concentrations between 2018 and 2019. A principal component analysis (PCA) was performed to analyze the controlling factors of radiocesium. Results of all 134Cs activity concentrations were below the detection limit (0.5 Bq m−3). Analyses of water column 137Cs profiles revealed a primary concentration peak (2.1–2.2 Bq m−3) at a depth range of 200–400 m (potential density σθ: 25.3 to 26.1 kg m−3). The PCA result suggests that this primary peak was related to density layers in the water column. A secondary 137Cs peak (1.90 Bq m−3) was observed in the near-surface waters (σθ = 18.8 to 21.4 kg m−3) and was possibly related to upwelling and river-to-sea mixing on the shelf. In the Taiwan Strait, 137Cs activity concentrations in the near-surface waters were higher in the summer than in the winter. We suggest that upwelling facilitates the vertical transport of 137Cs at the shelf break of the western NPO.
Manufacturing and performance evaluation of medical radiation shielding fiber with plasma thermal spray coating technology
Authors: Kim Seon-Chil , Son Jun-Sik
Published: November 2021

Lead, which has been used for radiation shielding in medicine, is currently sought to be replaced by an eco-friendly shielding material. Therefore, it should be replaced with shielding materials possessing excellent processability and radiation shielding performance similar to that of lead. In this study, a new process technology was developed focusing on the processability of tungsten, a representative eco-friendly shielding material. It is difficult to reproduce the shielding performance when using the method of coating nonwoven fabrics with a liquid using tungsten powder on a polymer material, which is adopted to ensure the flexibility of the shielding fabric. To address this, tungsten powder was sprayed on the fabric using a plasma thermal spray coating process and coated to a thickness of 0.2 mm to evaluate the shielding performance. Compared to standard lead with a thickness of 0.2 mm, the shielding efficiency differed by approximately 15%. Since the developed process can maintain the amount of injection in an area, it is possible to ensure the reproducibility of the shielding performance and automated process for mass production. This approach is economically feasible as it does not entail the mixing of polymer materials; hence, it can be used for preparing radiation shielding clothing for medical institutions.
TheraPearl Eye Mask and Blephasteam for the treatment of meibomian gland dysfunction: a randomized, comparative clinical trial
Authors: Olafsson Jonatan , Lai Xiaoran , Landsend Erlend Christoffer Sommer , Olafsson Snorri , Parissi Eric , Utheim Øygunn A. , Raeder Sten , Badian Reza A. , Lagali Neil , Dartt Darlene A. , Utheim Tor P.
Published: November 2021

Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is the most common cause of dry eye disease (DED). In this study, we aimed to compare the effects of eyelid warming treatment using either TheraPearl Eye Mask (Bausch & Lomb Inc., New York, USA) or Blephasteam (Spectrum Thea Pharmaceuticals LTD, Macclesfield, UK) in a Norwegian population with mild to moderate MGD-related DED. An open label, randomized comparative trial with seventy patients (49 females, 21 males; mean age 53.6 years). Patients were randomly assigned to treatment with Blephasteam (n = 37) or TheraPearl (n = 33). All received a hyaluronic acid based artificial tear substitute (Hylo-Comod, Ursapharm, Saarbrücken, Germany). Patients were examined at baseline, and at three and six months initiation of treatment. Treatment efficacy was primarily evaluated by fluorescein breakup time (FBUT) and Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) scores. Other outcome measures included ocular surface staining (OSS), Schirmer’s test, and meibomian quality and expressibility. Baseline parameter values did not differ between the groups. After six months of treatment, Blephasteam improved FBUT by 3.9 s (p < 0.01) and OSDI by 13.7 (p < 0.01), TheraPearl improved FBUT by 2.6 s (p < 0.01) and OSDI by 12.6 (p < 0.01). No difference between treatments was detected at 6 months (p = 0.11 for FBUT and p = 0.71 for OSDI), nor were there differences in the other tested parameters between the treatment groups. Blephasteam and TheraPearl are equally effective in treating mild to moderate MGD in a Norwegian population after 6-months of treatment.

Clinicaltrials.gov ID: NCT03318874; Protocol ID: 2014/1983; First registration: 24/10/2017.
A novel AlGaN/GaN heterostructure field-effect transistor based on open-gate technology
Authors: Liu Yang , Lv Yuanjie , Guo Shuoshuo , Luan Zhengfang , Cheng Aijie , Lin Zhaojun , Yang Yongxiong , Jiang Guangyuan , Zhou Yan
Published: November 2021

In this study, a novel AlGaN/GaN heterostructure field-effect transistor based on open-gate technology was fabricated. Sample transistors of different structures and sizes were constructed. Through measurements, it was found that by changing the width of the opening, the threshold voltage of the device could be easily modulated across a larger range. The open-gate device had two working modes with different transconductance. When the gate-source voltage VGS ≤  − 4.5 V, only the open region was conductive, and a new working mechanism modulated the channel current. Corresponding theoretical analysis and calculations showed that its saturation mechanism was related to a virtual gate formed by electron injection onto the surface. Also, the gate-source voltage modulated the open channel current by changing the channel electron mobility through polarization Coulomb field scattering. When used as class-A voltage amplifiers, open-gate devices can achieve effective voltage amplification with very low power consumption.
Impact of the different biliopancreatic limb length on diabetes and incretin hormone secretion following distal gastrectomy in gastric cancer patients
Authors: Park Ji Yeon , Kwon Oh Kyoung , Jeon Jae-Han , Choi Yeon-Kyung , Park Ki Bum
Published: November 2021

The present study aimed to investigate changes in glucose metabolism and incretin hormone response following longer intestinal bypass reconstruction after distal gastrectomy (DG) in low BMI patients with gastric cancer and type 2 diabetes. A total of 20 patients were prospectively recruited and underwent either conventional Billroth I (BI), Billroth II with long-biliopancreatic limb (BII), or Roux-en-Y anastomosis with long-Roux limb (RY) after DG. A 75g-oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was given preoperatively; and at 5 days, 3 months, and 6 months postoperatively. Serum glucose, insulin, glucagon, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) were serially measured. At 6 months after surgery, complete diabetes remission was achieved in 57.1% of the BII group but in no patients in the other two groups (p = 0.018). BII group showed a significant reduction in glucose concentration during OGTT at 6 months in contrast to the other 2 groups. In the BII group, a significant increase in GLP-1 secretion was observed after surgery but not maintained at 6 months, while postoperative hyperglucagonemia was alleviated along with a reduction in GIP. BII gastrojejunostomy with long biliopancreatic limb achieved better diabetes control with favorable incretin response after DG compared to BI or RY reconstruction.
Traumatic brain injury to primary visual cortex produces long-lasting circuit dysfunction
Authors: Frankowski Jan C. , Foik Andrzej T. , Tierno Alexa , Machhor Jiana R. , Lyon David C. , Hunt Robert F.
Published: November 2021

Primary sensory areas of the mammalian neocortex have a remarkable degree of plasticity, allowing neural circuits to adapt to dynamic environments. However, little is known about the effects of traumatic brain injury on visual circuit function. Here we used anatomy and in vivo electrophysiological recordings in adult mice to quantify neuron responses to visual stimuli two weeks and three months after mild controlled cortical impact injury to primary visual cortex (V1). We found that, although V1 remained largely intact in brain-injured mice, there was ~35% reduction in the number of neurons that affected inhibitory cells more broadly than excitatory neurons. V1 neurons showed dramatically reduced activity, impaired responses to visual stimuli and weaker size selectivity and orientation tuning in vivo. Our results show a single, mild contusion injury produces profound and long-lasting impairments in the way V1 neurons encode visual input. These findings provide initial insight into cortical circuit dysfunction following central visual system neurotrauma.
Microwave hyperthermia-responsible flexible liposomal gel as a novel transdermal delivery of methotrexate for enhanced rheumatoid arthritis therapy
Authors: Shen Qiying , Tang Ting , Hu Quan , Ying Xiaoying , Shu Gaofeng , Teng Chong , Du Yongzhong
Published: November 2021

Schematic of MTX-loaded temperature-sensitive flexible liposomal gel combined with microwave for treatment of RA.
Plasmon-assisted facile selective gaseous isopropanol dehydrogenation over Ag nanocubes
Authors: Li Liuyang , Yan Ling , Wu Zhizhou , Zhou Xuedong , Zhao Xiujian , Liu Baoshun
Published: November 2021

The present research showed that the non-heating effect of plasmonic absorption caused a great increase in the acetone dehydrogenation over Ag nanocubes in high selectivity at low temperatures.
Ulcerative colitis results in differential metabolism of cranberry polyphenols by the colon microbiome in vitro
Authors: Sirven Maritza Ashton , Venancio Vinicius Paula , Shankar Smriti , Klemashevich Cory , Castellón-Chicas Maria Joselyn , Fang Chuo , Mertens-Talcott Susanne U. , Talcott Stephen T.
Published: November 2021

Microbiota composition of the colon microbiome influences polyphenol metabolism.
Lactobacillus johnsonii 3-1 and Lactobacillus crispatus 7-4 promote the growth performance and ileum development and participate in lipid metabolism of broilers
Authors: Ding Chenchen , Wu Huixian , Cao Xiuyun , Ma Xujie , Gao Xiaona , Gao Zhangshan , Liu Shuhui , Fan Wentao , Liu Bin , Song Suquan
Published: November 2021

In the poultry industry, L. johnsonii 3-1 and L. crispatus 7-4 have the potential to replace AGP and improve the growth performance of broilers.
Challenges and future prospects of graphene-based hybrids for solar fuel generation: moving towards next generation photocatalysts
Authors: Bramhaiah Kommula , Bhattacharyya Santanu
Published: November 2021

Challenges and future prospects of graphene based hybrids as next generation photocatalysts for solar fuel generation.
Microporous MOF as nanogen facilitating diffusion-coupled charge transfer near the percolation threshold in a polyaniline pseudo-supercapacitor
Authors: El-Mehalmey Worood A. , Haikal Rana R. , Ali Aya Mohamed , Soliman Ahmed B. , ElBahri Mady , Alkordi Mohamed H.
Published: November 2021

A facile and potentially transferrable approach to enhance the PANI specific capacitance through the incorporation of MOF nanocrystals, as a microporous filler (nanogens), into the PANI matrix to provide ion-diffusion channels within the matrix.
One-pot enantioselective construction of 3,4-dihydro-2H-1,4-oxazines over Ru/Au relay catalysis and its mechanistic serendipity
Authors: Yang Dongfeng , Wang Chengyi , Wang Yu , Liu Guohua , Cheng Tanyu , Liu Rui
Published: November 2021

One-pot enantioselective construction of 3,4-dihydro-2H-1,4-oxazines have been developed through the transfer hydrogenation/cyclization enantio-relay process using Ru and Au bimetallic catalysts.
Fabrication of core–shell type poly(NIPAm)-encapsulated citral and its application on bamboo as an anti-molding coating
Authors: Peng Rui , Du Chungui , Hu Ailian , Li Qi , Zhang Jingjing , Zhang Weigang , Sun Fangli
Published: November 2021

Bamboo is a widely used renewable and degradable biomass material; however, its sustainable utilisation is hindered by its susceptibility to mold.
Solvothermal synthesis of Nb-doped TiO2 nanoparticles with enhanced sonodynamic effects for destroying tumors
Authors: Sun Wenjie , Dong Xiaojuan , Huang Pingping , Shan Jia , Qi Lei , Zhou Jun
Published: November 2021

TiO2−x:Nb nanoparticles displayed obvious tumor cellular injury in tumor-bearing mice in vivo through high SDT effect.
Experimental study on light volatile products from thermal decomposition of lignin monomer model compounds: effect of temperature, residence time and methoxyl group
Authors: Yang Huamei , Jiang Ju , Zhang Bingzhe , Xu Panpan
Published: November 2021

Effects of temperature, residence time and methoxyl on the decomposition of phenol, guaiacol and syringol, were investigated. Thermal decomposition pathways of the three model compounds were discussed based on ring reduction/CO elimination reactions.
Effect of monovalent salt concentration and peptide secondary structure in peptide-micelle binding
Authors: Ghosh Suvankar , Pandit Gopal , Debnath Swapna , Chatterjee Sunanda , Satpati Priyadarshi
Published: November 2021

We report computational (∼14.2 μs of MD) and experimental (CD, fluorescence) investigations to examine the salt-sensitivity and the role of the peptide secondary structure on LL-14 binding to simple membrane mimetic systems.
A V(iii)-induced metallogel with solvent stimuli-responsive properties: structural proof-of-concept with MD simulations
Authors: Sedghiniya Sima , Soleimannejad Janet , Foroutan Masumeh , Ebrahimi Mina , Naeini Vahid Fadaei
Published: November 2021

A new solvent stimuli-responsive metallogel (VGel) was synthesized through the introduction of vanadium ions into an adenine (Ade) and BTC organogel, and its supramolecular self-assembly was investigated from a computational viewpoint.
One-pot synthesis of spherical nanoscale zero-valent iron/biochar composites for efficient removal of Pb(ii)
Authors: Shi Yunlong , Yu Changjiang , Liu Mengying , Lin Qiang , Lei Man , Wang Darun , Yang Mengwei , Yang Yuting , Ma Jian , Jia Zhengya
Published: November 2021

In this study, a spherical Fe/C composite (AIBC) was successfully prepared via carbonization of Fe3+-crosslinked sodium alginate.
Extraction of polyoxotantalate by Mg–Fe layered double hydroxides: elucidation of sorption mechanisms
Authors: Choumane Rana , Carpentier Victor , Lefèvre Grégory
Published: November 2021

Reaction of polyoxotantalate ions and MgFe Layered Double Hydroxide leads to magnesium polyoxotantalate precipitate.
An artificial synaptic transistor using an α-In2Se3 van der Waals ferroelectric channel for pattern recognition
Authors: Mohta Neha , Rao Ankit , Remesh Nayana , Muralidharan R. , Nath Digbijoy N.
Published: November 2021

Despite being widely investigated for their memristive behavior, ferroelectrics are barely studied as channel materials in field-effect transistor (FET) configurations.
Development of a high intensity parallel photoreactor for high throughput screening
Authors: Qi Ning , Wismer Michael K. , Conway Donald V. , Krska Shane W. , Dreher Spencer D. , Lin Shishi
Published: November 2021

Enhanced reactivity of decarboxylative cross-coupling using a new parallel photoreactor.
Ternary complexes of chiral disulfonimides in transfer-hydrogenation of imines: the relevance of late intermediates in ion pair catalysis
Authors: Žabka Matej , Gschwind Ruth M.
Published: November 2021

In ion pairing catalysis, the structures of advanced intermediates are often not accessible. Here, we present a combined experimental and computational study of ternary complexes in Brønsted acid catalysis, which show unexpected H-bond switching.
Kees Hummelen: a creative, inspirational and unorthodox scientist from Groningen
Authors: Meijer Bert
Published: November 2021

To mark the occasion of the official retirement of Prof. J. C. (Kees) Hummelen, the Journal of Materials Chemistry C has dedicated a special issue to honour his achievements in the field of materials chemistry. This personal essay, written by his study mate, close colleague and long-standing friend, highlights the pioneering contributions that Kees Hummelen has made in various fields of organic and materials chemistry during his 45 year long career. His research in chemistry began with asymmetric synthesis and chemiluminescence and culminated in his most notable results in the field of fullerene chemistry and the development of organic photovoltaic technology. More recently, he has also been active in the field of materials for molecular field-effect transistors, biosensors and the development of single molecule electronics based on internal π logic. He was also a dedicated teacher and was deeply involved in societal challenges. Because of my personal relationship with Kees during all of those 45 years, I have written this essay in a somewhat unorthodox way; a way that is so characteristic of Kees.
Identification of three cataclysmic variables detected by the ART-XC and eROSITA telescopes on board the SRG during the all-sky X-ray survey
Authors: Zaznobin I. , Sazonov S. , Burenin R. , Uskov G. , Semena A. , Gilfanov M. , Medvedev P. , Sunyaev R. , Eselevich M.
Published: November 2021

We report the discovery of three cataclysmic variables in the data of the first year of the all-sky X-ray survey by the SRG orbital observatory. The sources were selected for their brightness in the 4-12 keV band in the data of the Mikhail Pavlinsky ART-XC telescope. They are also detected by the eROSITA telescope, which provides accurate localizations and spectral data for a broadband spectral analysis. All three objects were previously known as X-ray sources from the ROSAT all-sky survey and XMM-Newton slew survey, but their nature remained unknown. The X-ray spectra obtained by eROSITA and ART-XC are consistent with optically thin thermal emission with a temperature kT ≳ 18 keV for SRGA J194638.9+704552 and SRGA J225412.8+690658 and kT ≳ 5 keV for SRGAJ204547.8+672642. Together with the inferred high X-ray luminosities (2 × 1032-3 × 1033 erg s-1), this strongly suggests that all three sources are cataclysmic variables (CVs). We have obtained optical photometry and spectroscopy for these objects using the AZT-33IK 1.6 m telescope of the Sayan Observatory. The optical properties confirm the CV nature of the objects. We conclude that SRGA J194638.9+704552 is an intermediate polar, SRGA J204547.8+672642 is likely a polar or intermediate polar, and SRGA J225412.8+690658 is either a magnetic or nonmagnetic CV. We have also measured an orbital period of 2.98 h for SRGA J204547.8+672642 based on TESS data. Three out of the planned eight SRG all-sky surveys have now been completed. We expect to find many new CVs, in particular, magnetic systems, during the survey, and we plan to continue our optical follow-up program.
Engineering geological investigations for evaluation of excavation method and stand-up time of the DK99-DK100 Jakarta – Bandung high-speed railway tunnel, Indonesia
Authors: Ali Linda , Indrawan I Gde Budi , Hendarto Hendarto
Published: November 2021

This paper presents the investigation of surface geology and subsurface engineering geology to analyze the excavation method and stand-up time of the DK99-DK100 Jakarta-Bandung high-speed railway Tunnel, Indonesia. Rock mass quality, tunnel excavation method, and stand-up time determined using Geological Strength Index (GSI), Basic Quality (BQ) systems, converted to Rock Mass Rating (RMR) and The Japan Society of Civil Engineering (JSCE) for comparison. The result shows that the study area consists of slightly to completely weathered andesite breccia and slightly weathered andesite lava. The rock masses at the tunnel elevation had very poor to poor quality and were associated with high weathering degrees. The recommended rock excavation method based on the GSI is digging. The recommended tunnel excavation method based on RMR is multiple drifts, top heading, and bench, while based on JSCE is bench cut method. The tunnel stand-up time is 30 minutes - 2 hours based on the RMR, while it is predicted to be unstable without support based on the BQ. The recommended design is expected to be applied effectively according to the geological conditions. It is expected to understand better the tunnel excavation method in poor rock masses, especially in Indonesia.
Modified RMR to determine rock mass quality, study case of diversion tunnel in Meninting Dam, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
Authors: Wijaya Brilyan Jati , Warmada I Wayan , Indrawan I Gde Budi
Published: November 2021

The Meninting Dam under construction on Lombok Island, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia, requires a good planning to build a diversion tunnel to support its development and mobilization. The diversion tunnel is planned to be built through rocks with medium to poor rock mass quality. The planning stage involves various parameters, i.e., the rock mass classification, using either the RMR or GSI method. Converting values from one method to another makes planning work easier. However, the constraints found were the limitations of the observational data, such as discontinuity conditions. The objective of this article is to discuss the alternative depiction of discontinuity conditions in rock mass using RMR method. An alternative equation was developed to obtain a prediction model for determining the RMR value, based on GSI data. The evaluation showed that the mathematical models developed in this research had a small gap of error compared to other values. The models then can be used to predict RMR value based on GSI data and vice versa, with a higher degree of accuracy and precision according to the actual rock surface conditions, especially in the construction site of diversion tunnel at Meninting Dam.
Study of Groundwater Vulnerability to Contamination in Part of the Klaten District Area, Central Java-Indonesia
Authors: Adhesti Yohana Mariska Puteri , Widyastuti Margaretha
Published: November 2021

Water demands and risks of groundwater pollution in the Klaten District consistently increase as the human population grows over the years. This study aimed to examine the intrinsic and specific groundwater vulnerability levels (low, moderate, high) and analyze the spatial distribution and degree of contribution of the parameters to the vulnerability in some parts of the district area. The data included depth to the water table (measured directly at selected wells), rainfall records in 2009–2019, land-use maps (RBI), 30m DEM (SRTM), geological maps and geoelectric data. Groundwater vulnerability was analyzed with the Susceptibility Index by overlaying five parameters, which according to the results varied across the district: shallow to deep groundwater, aquifers that were composed of sandstone, sand and gravels and rock materials in between, topography of <2%and 2–6% and diverse land-use types from agricultural fields to built-up lands. Most of the research area had moderate intrinsic and specific vulnerability (43.93% and 50.53%), followed by high (38.24% and 46.43%) and low (17.83% and 3.04%). Also, depth to the water table and land use are the most influencing parameters. The results of this study are expected to provide a reference for the government to consider factoring in priority areas based on groundwater vulnerability levels in formulating the district’s spatial plan.
Analysis of Support Systems and Excavation Methods Based on Rock Mass Quality in the Intake Tunnel of the Jlantah Dam
Authors: Putera Doni Apriadi , Hendrayana Heru , Setiawan Hendy
Published: November 2021

Research on the classification of rock mass quality in the intake tunnel Jlantah dam has not been carried out in detail because the research focuses on the location of the main dam so that empirical excavation methods and support systems have not been carried out. The rock mass quality will be used as a parameter in determining the excavation method and tunnel support system that will be used in the Jlantah Dam intake tunnel. The investigation was carried out through engineering geological mapping, core drill evaluation, and supported by laboratory test data based on the Rock Mass Rating (RMR) and Q-system rock mass classification. The rock mass at the research location based on the RMR classification is in class IV (poor rock). Based on the Q-system method, a very poor rock class is obtained. Based on the analysis of the RMR and Q-system methods, the suitable support system for engineering geological conditions such as the intake tunnel of the Jlantah Dam is shotcrete 10 cm thick, steel set with a distance of 1.5 m and rockbolt length of 1.6 m with a distance of 1.5 m. The proper excavation method for the tunnel intake is top heading and bench.
Predicting the impact of COVID-19 on fertility in the Special Region of Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Authors: Alfana Muhammad Arif Fahrudin , Rohmah Hidayati Nur , Nurulhuda Salma , Sadali Mohammad Isnaini
Published: November 2021

The aim of this research is to explain the predicted impact of Covid-19 on fertility in the Special Region of Yogyakarta (DIY). The indicators used are the number of pregnancies and the number of births. To get pregnancy and birth predictions, various basic data were processed using the Spectrum program using the DemProj and Famplan modules, then analyzed by descriptive analysis. The basic data is collected from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) and other relevant agencies. The result shows that birth and pregnancies in DIY will increase. This prediction is based on the decreasing use of short -term contraceptive methods during the pandemic. In the worst-case scenario, the rise in pregnancies between 2019-2020 would be 67,862 cases, meanwhile births are expected to increase by 37.56 thousand cases during the same period.
Geostatistical analysis of static level evolution between 1995-2005 and 2007-2017 in San Luis Potosí Aquifer, México
Authors: Navarro-Hernández Maria Ines , Tristán Abraham Cardenas , Putri Ratih Fitria
Published: November 2021

Knowing the piezometric levels evolution of an aquifer is essential for planning the use of water resources in the cities of central México, such as San Luis Potosí, whose population depends almost entirely on groundwater. Applying geostatistical methods from georeferenced data can reliably provide information on the spatial variability of valley piezometry. The objective of this study is to evaluate the evolution of the static levels of the aquifer in San Luis Potosí Valley, through an interpolation analysis by the kriging method. For both periods, the experimental variogram was adjusted to the Gaussian model and the method with the best results was ordinary kriging. From this analysis it was obtained that the decay of the static levels is more critical in the central zone of the valley, while the zones of the northwest and towards the south, the aquifer levels have shown an important recovery; the important values for the decrease in static levels coincide with the areas where the population density is greater.
The analysis of spring potency for domestic uses (Case study: Wanadadi Sub-district, Banjarnegara-Indonesia)
Authors: Fadilah Gita Oktaviani , Widyastuti Margaretha
Published: November 2021

Water is a fundamental human need, and one of the sources constantly available in rainy and dry seasons is spring. The residents of Wanadadi Sub-district (Banjarnegara, Indonesia) rely on spring water as an alternative source, specifically to deal with water scarcity in dry seasons. This research was intended to investigate the potential of the springs based on their availability and quality to meet domestic water requirements. There has never been a study focusing on the springs in the sub-district; therefore, the results can give an overview of their potential and suitable conservation strategies. This research also enriches scientific knowledge of spring characteristics in structural depressions and hill slopes. Spring availability was determined by measuring the discharge of 34 springs and comparing the results with the total water needs. Spring water quality was identified by testing the water samples of eleven springs, each representing a village in the sub-district, and comparing the parameter values with the standards for sanitation and hygiene purposes issued in the Decree of the Minister of Health No. 32/2017. The results showed that based on water availability the springs in five villages have good potential. Meanwhile, in terms of quality the springs in all villages have very low potential.
Electrical Equivalent Circuit of Multi-Tips Pulsed Corona Discharge Reactor
Authors: Saber Karim , Abahazem Alyen , Merbahi Nofel , Yousfi Mohamed
Published: November 2021

In this work, an electrical model equivalent to the corona discharge reactor has been proposed in a multitips plan configuration, in dry air at atmospheric pressure. The electrical parameters evolution of the circuit are obtained by using the identification method which is based on the least squares recursive (RLS) algorithm, the estimated parameters allow us to describe the corona discharge behavior inside the reactor. The RLS method used during the determination of capacitance and resistance is validated by the comparison between the measured and the calculated currents, the significant forms of capacitance and resistance confirm the validity of the proposed electrical model. The estimated parameters of the electrical circuit allowed us to determine the discharge power, the power delivered to the reactor and thus the energy efficiency during the discharge, this efficiency increases during the propagation of streamers towards the plane, it reaches a maximum value which is equal to 50% in the case of the fourtips- plane configuration. The energy stored in the reactor is also calculated using the electrical circuit, it increases to a maximum value of 2.6 pJ, which is a very low value compared to the energy delivered to the reactor. This work allows us to control the discharge and lost energy during the corona discharge in the case of multi-tips-plane configuration.
Synthesis of brightly luminescent colloidal formamidinium lead bromide perovskite FAPbBr3 nanoplatelets with tunable emission
Authors: Jarmouni Nabila , Tomaiuolo Marco , Gabbani Alessio , Pineider Francesco , Bassam Rajaa , Belaaouad Said , Benmokhtar Said
Published: November 2021

Hybrid halide perovskites are semicondoctor materials with desirable characteristics of color-tunable and narrow-band emissions for lighting and display technology. They have size-tunable emissions due to quantum size effects. In this work, the Formamidinium Lead Bromide perovskite CH(NH2)2PbBr3 nanoplatelets (NPLs) were successfully synthesized by ligand-assisted reprecipitation method under room condition, in which the emission color-tunability was realized via quantum size effect without anion–halide mixing, by varying the oleylamine to oleic acid volume ratio as surfactants, while the total amount of oleic acid remained unchanged. We are able to adjust the optical proprieties of FAPbBr3 NPLs and, consequently, their structural properties. The obtained colloidal solutions of FAPbBr3 nanoplatelets with uniform size exhibited different photoluminescence wavelengths covering the spectral region from 440 to 525 nm. The maximum absolute PL quantum yield (PLQY) of the green emission was measured to be as high as 80% at room temperature. The size of FAPbBr3 NPLs could be effectively tuned from 15.5 to 38.1 nm with an increase in the oleylamine and oleic acid ligands ratio.
Investigation of competitive adsorption and desorption of heavy metals from aqueous solution using raw rock: Characterization kinetic, isotherm, and thermodynamic
Authors: Bassam Rajaa , El Alouani Marouane , Jarmouni Nabila , Maissara Jabrane , El Mahi Chbihi Mohammed , Belaaouad Said
Published: November 2021

Heavy metals are the most dangerous inorganic pollutants Due to their bioaccumulation and their nonbiodegradability, for this, several studies have focused on the recovery of these metals from water using different techniques. In this context, our study consists of evaluating an efficient and eco-friendly pathway of competitive recovery of heavy metals (Cd, Cr and As) from aqueous solutions by adsorption using raw rock. This adsorbent was characterized before and after the adsorption process by several techniques. The multi-metals adsorption process in the batch mode was undertaken to evaluate the effect of adsorbent mass, contact time, pH, Temperature, and initial heavy metals concentration. The kinetic data were analyzed using the pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order and intra-particle diffusion kinetic models. According to the modeling of the experimental results, the adsorption kinetics of heavy metals were adapted to the pseudo-second-order model. The adsorption isotherms were evaluated by the Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models. The experimental isotherm data of heavy metals were better fitted with the Langmuir model rather than Freundlich isotherm models. The maximum experimental adsorption capacities (Qmax) predicted by the Langmuir model are 15.23 mg/g for Cd (II), 17.54 mg/g for Cr (VI) and 16.36 mg/g for As (III). The values of thermodynamic parameters revealed that the heavy metals adsorption was exothermic, favorable, and spontaneous in nature. The desorption process of heavy metals showed that this raw rock had excellent recycling capacity. Based on the results, these untreated clays can be used as inexpensive and environmentally friendly adsorbents to treat water contaminated by heavy metals.
High load capacity spur gears with conchoidal path of contact
Authors: Tkach Pavlo , Nosko Pavlo , Bashta Oleksandr , Tsybrii Yurii , Nosko Oleksii
Published: November 2021

The present study is devoted to investigation of spur gears with a conchoidal path of contact and a convex-convex contact between teeth. The load capacity and energy efficiency were evaluated using both theoretical and experimental approaches. The theoretical analysis showed that the conchoidal gear pairs are 5–21% stronger in terms of contact stress and have similar energy efficiency as compared to the involute gear pairs of the same configuration. Experiments were conducted on a gear test rig. Its energy efficiency was determined by measuring the active power of the motor driving the pinion shaft and controlling the torque at the gear shaft. The load capacity of the tested gear pair was estimated by analysing changes in the energy efficiency. It was found that the conchoidal gear pair has more than 20% higher load capacity and slightly higher energy efficiency, which agrees well with the mentioned theoretical results. Thereby, the study concludes a substantially higher load capacity of the conchoidal gears compared to the traditional involute ones.
Le problème à N corps qui se cache derrière l’ordinateur quantique
Authors: Waintal Xavier
Published: November 2021

Le concept d’ordinateur quantique recouvre deux réalités très différentes. Il y a d’une part de très belles expériences de physique qui se basent sur des systèmes appartenant à la nanoélectronique quantique (supraconducteurs, semi-conducteurs), l’optique quantique ou la physique atomique. D’autre part, il y a une promesse, celle que ces systèmes puissent être décrits avec grande précision par un modèle mathématique très épuré. Ce modèle est une instance d’un problème plus général, le problème quantique à N corps, que les physiciens étudient depuis des dizaines d’années.

Dans cet article, nous verrons qu’envisager l’ordinateur quantique sous l’angle du problème quantique à N corps donne un éclairage utile pour comprendre à quoi il pourrait servir ou les diffi cultés liées à son élaboration.
Achieving surface recombination velocity below 10 cm/s in n-type germanium using ALD Al2O3
Authors: Isometsä Joonas , Fung Tsun Hang , Pasanen Toni P. , Liu Hanchen , Yli-koski Marko , Vähänissi Ville , Savin Hele
Published: November 2021

Desirable intrinsic properties, namely, narrow bandgap and high carrier mobility, make germanium (Ge) an excellent candidate for various applications, such as radiation detectors, multi-junction solar cells, and field effect transistors. Nevertheless, efficient surface passivation of Ge has been an everlasting challenge. In this work, we tackle this problem by applying thermal atomic layer deposited (ALD) aluminum oxide (Al2O3), with special focus on the process steps carried out prior to and after dielectric film deposition. Our results show that instead of conventional hydrofluoric acid (HF) dip, hydrochloric acid (HCI) pre-treatment is an essential process step needed to reach surface recombination velocities (SRVs) below 10 cm/s. The main reason for efficient surface passivation is found to be a high dielectric charge that promotes the so-called field-effect passivation. Furthermore, the results demonstrate that the post-deposition anneal temperature, time, and ambient play a role in passivating Ge-dangling bonds, but surprisingly, good surface passivation (SRV below 26 cm/s) is obtained even without any post-deposition annealing. The results pave the way for high-performance n-type Ge optoelectronic devices that could use induced junctions via negatively charged Al2O3 layers.