bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sperm functionality is differentially regulated by porcine oviductal extracellular vesicles from the distinct phases of the estrous cycle
Authors: Toledo-Guardiola S. M. , Martínez-Díaz P. , Martínez-Núñez R. , Navarro-Serna S. , Soriano-Úbeda C. , Romero-Aguirregomezcorta J. , Matás C.
Published: May 2024

Context Extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from the oviductal fluid (oEVs) play a critical role in various reproductive processes, including sperm capacitation, fertilisation, and early embryo development. Aims To characterise porcine oEVs (poEVs) from different stages of the estrous cycle (late follicular, LF; early luteal, EL; mid luteal, ML; late luteal, LL) and investigate their impact on sperm functionality. Methods poEVs were isolated, characterised, and labelled to assess their binding to boar spermatozoa. The effects of poEVs on sperm motility, viability, acrosomal status, protein kinase A phosphorylation (pPKAs), tyrosine phosphorylation (Tyr-P), and in in vitro fertility were analysed. Key results poEVs were observed as round or cup-shaped membrane-surrounded vesicles. Statistical analysis showed that poEVs did not significantly differ in size, quantity, or protein concentration among phases of the estrous cycle. However, LF poEVs demonstrated a higher affinity for binding to sperm. Treatment with EL, ML, and LL poEVs resulted in a decrease in sperm progressive motility and total motility. Moreover, pPKA levels were reduced in presence of LF, EL, and ML poEVs, while Tyr-P levels did not differ between groups. LF poEVs also reduced sperm penetration rate and the number of spermatozoa per penetrated oocyte (P < 0.05). Conclusions poEVs from different stages of the estrous cycle play a modulatory role in sperm functionality by interacting with spermatozoa, affecting motility and capacitation, and participating in sperm–oocyte interaction. Implications The differential effects of LF and LL poEVs suggest the potential use of poEVs as additives in IVF systems to regulate sperm–oocyte interaction.
The electronic structures and optical properties induced by spin-orbit-coupling in LiPbPO4 compound
Authors: Leng Xudong , Hu Mei , Jing Qun , Duan Haiming , Chen Henglei , Chen Zhaohui
Published: May 2024

Phosphate materials are excellent candidates for nonlinear optical materials, thus necessitating a comprehensive and in-depth study of them. Here, inspired by the interesting phenomenon induced by the spin-orbit coupling (SOC) effect, we extend it to LiPbPO4 compounds using a first-principles approach to probe the influence of SOC on the electronic structure and optical properties of post-transition metal compounds. The results show that only the bottom of the conduction band shows an energy level splitting with the inclusion of SOC, which is analyzed to come from the SOC in the Pb 6p state since the SOC in the O 2p state is very weak. The splitting of the conduction band triggers the decrease of the band gap and the change of the optical properties. The performance analysis shows that both the refractive index and the second harmonic generation (SHG) coefficient are enhanced with the inclusion of SOC, however, the change in the birefringence is insignificant, and it is further found that the enhanced SHG coefficient values are closer to the experimental values. In conclusion, our study reveals the impact of SOC effect on the electronic structure and optical properties of LiPbPO4 compounds, contributing to a deeper understanding of the nonlinear optical in post-transition metal compounds.
Coaxial tips for a scanning microwave microscope and its calibration with dielectric references
Authors: Eckmann Bruno , Herzog Benedikt , Lin Hung-Ju , de Préville Sophie , Hoffmann Johannes , Zeier Markus
Published: May 2024

Scanning microwave microscopy (SMM) is a combination of an atomic force microscope with a vector network analyzer (VNA) to measure locally resolved impedances. The technique finds application in the realms of semiconductor industries, material sciences, or biology. To determine quantitative material properties from the measured impedances, the system must be calibrated. Transferring the calibration from the calibration substrate onto the material under test is strongly limited when using unshielded probes, as the electromagnetic coupling to the surroundings can reach several centimeters. This work reports the fabrication of coaxially shielded probes for a scanning microwave microscope and their integration into such an instrument. We discuss a calibration method with dielectric references, using a simulation-assisted 1-port VNA calibration algorithm. Uncertainty considerations of the measurement process are included and propagation throughout the algorithm is performed. The calibration is verified with an additional dielectric reference. As an application example, the results for a static-random-access memory sample are presented. We identified system-related drift and trace noise as the dominant contributors to the uncertainties of the calibrated results. The here presented shielded tips can broaden the application scope of SMM, as they are door-openers for measurements in liquids.
Drill tools sticking prediction based on adaptive long short-term memory
Authors: Wu Honglin , Wang Zhongbin , Si Lei , Zou Xiaoyu
Published: May 2024

As one of the most severe disasters in deep coal mining, rockburst can be prevented through drill-hole pressure relief. However, the coal mine is characterized by high crustal stress and changeable mechanical properties of surrounding rock, which will cause drill rod deflection phenomenon, then lead to rod-deflection sticking accidents. This paper proposes a prediction method based on adaptive long short-term memory (ALSTM) for rod-deflection sticking accidents to improve drilling efficiency and reduce sticking accidents. Firstly, the sticking data is collected through the intelligent drilling condition simulation experimental platform, and then the sticking features are extracted based on the sticking data. Secondly, the sticking factor is constructed, and the sticking critical line is set. Thirdly, the good-point set and the proposed random perturbation algorithm are employed to improve the spotted hyena optimizer (SHO) to obtain the improved SHO (ISHO). Finally, we use the ISHO to optimize the hyperparameters of the long short-term memory and then establish the sticking prediction model based on ALSTM. The experimental results show that the proposed prediction model meets the demands for sticking prediction very well.
Velocity-space distribution function of fast ions in a sawtoothing plasma
Authors: Barberis T , Porcelli F
Published: May 2024

This study explores the influence of sawtooth oscillations on the velocity space distribution of fast ions in tokamak plasma discharges. The relevant Fokker–Planck equation for fast ions is solved analytically. Two distinct effects arising from the temperature drop associated with a sawtooth crash and their impact on the distribution function of fast ions are considered. The first effect involves the modulation of the fusion alpha particle source on the timescale of the sawtooth period, linked to the drop in fusion yield resulting from the sawtooth temperature relaxations. The second effect is tied to the increase of the slowing-down time during the sawtooth ramp, causing particles born later in the sawtooth cycle to experience reduced slowing down compared to those born right after the crash, creating an accumulation-like mechanism at higher energies. In regimes where the sawtooth period is shorter than the fast ion slowing-down time, the combined influence of these effects gives rise to fast ion distribution functions that transiently exhibit positive slopes in velocity space.
In-situ synchrotron x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy study of medium-temperature baking of niobium for SRF application
Authors: Prudnikava A , Tamashevich Y , Makarova A , Smirnov D , Knobloch J
Published: May 2024

In order to determine optimal parameters of vacuum thermal processing of superconducting radiofrequency niobium cavities exhaustive information on the initial chemical state of niobium and its modification upon a vacuum heat treatment is required. In the present work the chemical composition of the niobium surface upon ultra-high vacuum baking at 200 ∘C–400 ∘C similar to ‘medium-temperature baking’ and ‘furnace baking’ of cavities is explored in-situ by synchrotron x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Our findings imply that below the critical thickness of the

Nb
2

O
5

layer (

≈

1
nm

) niobium starts to interact actively with surface impurities, such as carbon and phosphorus. By studying the kinetics of the native oxide reduction, the activation energy and the rate-constant relation have been determined and used for the calculation of the oxygen-concentration depth profiles. It has been established that the controlled diffusion of oxygen is realized at temperatures 200 ∘C–300 ∘C, and the native-oxide layer represents an oxygen source, while at 400 ∘C the pentoxide is completely reduced and the doping level is determined by an ambient oxygen partial pressure. Fluorine (F to Nb atomic ratio is 0.2) after the buffered chemical polishing was found to be incorporated into the surface layer probed by XPS (

≈

4.6

nm

), and its concentration increased during the low-temperature baking (F/Nb = 0.35 at 230 ∘C) and depleted at higher temperatures (F/Nb = 0.11 at 400 ∘C). Thus, the influence of fluorine on the performance of mid-T baked, nitrogen-doped and particularly mild-baked (120 ∘C/48 h) cavities must be considered. The possible role of fluorine in the educed

Nb

+
5

→

Nb

+
4

reaction under the impact of an x-ray beam at room temperature and during the thermal treatment is also discussed. The range of temperature and duration parameters of the thermal treatment at which the niobium surface would not be contaminated with impurities is determined.
Effects of nanomagnesia and polypropylene-graft-maleic anhydride on the dielectric breakdown properties of polypropylene/ethylene propylene diene monomer blend
Authors: Johari Nur Atikah , Lau Kwan Yiew , Abdul Malek Zulkurnain , Mohd Esa Mona Riza , Ching Kuan Yong , Talib Mohd Aizam
Published: May 2024

Thermoplastic polypropylene (PP) has garnered a significant attention in power cable insulation research because of its exceptional thermal tolerance and dielectric properties. Due to its poor impact strength at room temperature, PP has been blended with various elastomers, including ethylene-propylene-diene monomer (EPDM), to improve the mechanical stiffness of the final material. This, however, comes with compromised dielectric properties of the material. Recently, the addition of nanofillers to polymers has demonstrated promising properties that can be tailored for various dielectric applications, provided that nanofiller and polymer interactions are appropriately formulated. Nevertheless, the effect of nanostructuration in PP/elastomer blends, especially from the perspective of dielectrics, have yet to be systematically explored. In the current work, magnesia (MgO) nanofiller is added to a model PP/EPDM blend system to determine the effect of MgO on the breakdown properties of PP/EPDM. The results show that adding 0.5 wt% of MgO to PP/EPDM reduces the AC and DC breakdown strengths by 7% and 16%, respectively. As the amount of MgO increases to 3 wt%, the AC and DC breakdown strength reduces further by 25% and 29%, respectively. Significantly, appropriate modification of the nanocomposites with polypropylene-graft-maleic anhydride (PP-g-MAH) can result in 5% higher breakdown strength of the nanocomposites with respect to comparable nanocomposites without modification. The mechanisms surrounding these breakdown effects are discussed with the aid of materials structure interpretations. Overall, the results demonstrate that appropriate modification of nanocomposites with PP-g-MAH is crucial in tailoring breakdown properties of PP blend nanocomposites.
Magnetic topological phases in the double exchange model with spin–orbit coupling
Authors: Tran Thanh-Mai Thi , Phan Van-Nham , Tran Minh-Tien
Published: May 2024

The double exchange model with the spin–orbit coupling is studied by the dynamical mean field theory. It reveals a competition between the magnetic, charge orderings and the non-trivial topology of the ground state. The spin exchange tends to maintain the magnetic ordering, and at the same time it tries to suppress the charge ordering. The spin–orbit coupling maintains nontrivial topology of the ground state, whereas the magnetic ordering tries to destroy it. As a result, a rich phase diagram is obtained. The competition leads to a half topological ground state, where spin-up electrons form a nontrivial topological state, while spin-down electrons are in the topological trivial insulating state.
Bouncing cosmological models in f(R, Lm) gravity
Authors: Jaybhaye Lakhan V , Solanki Raja , Sahoo P K
Published: May 2024

This article explores matter bounce non-singular cosmology in f(R, L

m
) gravity. We consider two non-linear f(R, L

m
) functional forms, specifically,

f
(
R
,

L

m

)
=

R

2

+
λ

R

2

+
α

L

m

and

f
(
R
,

L

m

)

=

R

2

+

L

m

β

+
γ

representing a minimal coupling case. We derive the corresponding Friedmann-like equations for both the assumed models in the FLRW background, and then we present the impact of the model parameters along with the parameter of bouncing scale factor on the equation of state parameter, pressure, and the energy density. In addition, we examine the dynamical behavior of cosmographic parameters such as jerk, lerk, and snap parameters. Further, we find that the violation of the null energy condition along with the strong energy condition depicts the non-singular accelerating behavior, corresponding to both assumed non-linear f(R, L

m
) functions. Lastly, we present the behavior of the adiabatic speed of sound to examine the viability of the considered cosmological bouncing scenario.
Performance optimization of CsPbIBr2-based perovskite solar cells through device modeling
Authors: Ullah Saad , Qamar Samina , ur Rehman Atta , Erten-Ela Sule , Khan Firoz
Published: May 2024

Among all-inorganic perovskite materials, CsPbIBr2 provides the optimal equilibrium between optical bandgap and phase stability. However, notwithstanding these advantageous, interfacial defects and improper band alignment continue to diminish the photovoltaic efficacy of CsPbIBr2-based PSCs. This study used the SCAPS-1D software to undertake a thorough examination of operating mechanism of CsPbIBr2-based devices. A comprehensive analysis is conducted on a range of physical parameters pertaining to the FTO/ZnOS/CsPbIBr2/CZTS configuration, encompassing doping concentration, operating temperature, defect density, electron affinity, thickness, series and shunt resistance. The simulation outcomes revealed that PSCs characterized by a low defect density and an ideal band structure enhance the performance of the devices by facilitating the transport and separation of charge carriers. The optimized device achieved an efficiency of 16.68%, short-circuits current density (JSC) of 11.52 mA cm−2, open-circuit voltage (VOC) of 1.64 V, and Fill factor (FF) of 87.83%. These simulation findings will provide useful information for experimental fabrication of efficient CsPbIBr2-based inorganic PSC.
Long-term Integration Ability of the Submillimeter Wave Astronomy Satellite (SWAS) Spectral Line Receivers
Authors: Wang Bing-Ru , Li Di , Goldsmith Paul F. , Wu Jingwen , Tsai Chao-Wei , Schieder Rudolf , Melnick Gary J.
Published: May 2024

The Submillimeter Wave Astronomy Satellite (SWAS) was the first space telescope capable of high spectral resolution observations of terahertz spectral lines. We have investigated the integration ability of its two receivers and spectrometer during five and a half years of on-orbit operation. The C i , O2, H2O, and 13CO spectra taken toward all observed Galactic sources were analyzed. The present results are based on spectra with a total integration time of up to 2.72 × 104 hr (≃108 s). The noise in the spectra is generally consistent with that expected from the radiometer equation, without any sign of approaching a noise floor. This noise performance reflects the extremely stable performance of the passively cooled front end as well as other relevant components in the SWAS instrument throughout its mission lifetime.
Reply to Comment on ‘Deuterium supersaturated surface layer in tungsten: ion energy dependence’
Authors: Nishijima D. , Tokitani M. , Nagata D. , Schwarz-Selinger T. , Založnik A. , Chang F. , Doerner R.P. , Patino M.I. , Simmonds M.J. , Baldwin M.J. , Tynan G.R.
Published: May 2024

We reply to the comment by Li et al (submitted to Nucl. Fusion with this response) on our recent paper Nishijima et al (2023 Nucl. Fusion
63 126003). In this response, we address the existence of an incident ion energy, E
i, threshold for the deuterium (D) supersaturated surface layer (DSSL) formation with a newly conducted D plasma exposure experiment at E
i ∼ 20 eV. It is also further demonstrated, based on new experiments where the ion flux, fluence, and sample temperature are scanned, that non-kinetic (ballistic) processes play a role in the DSSL formation and growth. In addition, the effect of impurities in our plasma is discussed also with a new analysis of the surface composition made after a D plasma exposure.
Neoclassical tearing mode stabilization by electron cyclotron current drive in EAST tokamak experiments
Authors: Zhang Y. , Wang X.J. , Hong F. , Zhang W. , Xu H.D. , Shi T.H. , Li E.Z. , Ma Q. , Zhao H.L. , Wang S.X. , Chu Y.Q. , Liu H.Q. , Sun Y.W. , Zhang X.D. , Yu Q. , Qian J.P. , Gong X.Z. , Hu J.S. , Lu K. , Song Y.T. ,   the EAST Team
Published: May 2024

The stabilization of the m/n= 2/1 neoclassical tearing mode (NTM) by electron cyclotron current drive (ECCD) has been carried out in EAST H-mode discharges, where m/n is the poloidal/toroidal mode number. The experimental results are reported for the first time in this paper. To facilitate the experimental study, the magnetic island (NTM) is generated by a sufficiently large amplitude of the externally applied resonant magnetic perturbation (RMP). After switching off the RMP, the NTM exists due to the bootstrap current perturbation, with the magnetic island width being about 5 cm for the local equilibrium bootstrap current fraction being larger than 10%. By applying the localized ECCD later, the NTM is fully suppressed if the radial misalignment between the magnetic island and the ECCD location is sufficiently small. The stabilizing effect depends on both the radial misalignment and the applied electron cyclotron wave power. More importantly, it is found that the NTM can be avoided when applying ECCD earlier during the ramp-up phase of the RMP amplitude, if ECCD is localized around the O-point of the magnetic island, indicating an efficient way for avoiding locked modes that can lead to the major disruptions of tokamak plasmas.
Linear vs. Non-linear Behaviour in Ion Irradiation Nanostructuring of Nickel and Silicon Surfaces
Authors: Mekki Mogtaba B , Hunt Michael R C
Published: May 2024

Spontaneous nanometre-scale quasi-periodic ripple-like structures are formed at the surface of polycrystalline Ni films and Si(111) single crystal wafers by irradiation with a broad Ar+ ion beam at room temperature and studied with Atomic Force Microscopy as a function of fluence. The development of these structures can be reproduced by numerical solution of a continuum equation describing the evolution of surface morphology under ion irradiation, using realistic coefficients derived from material properties. In particular, we demonstrate that differences observed in pattern formation on the two surfaces under the conditions studied, such as wavelength stability and exponential growth of interface width for the Ni surfaces compared with wavelength coarsening and interface width saturation on Si(111), can be understood in terms of a cross-over between linear and non-linear behaviours.
Generation of Nanoparticles from FeCu Powder Using Femtosecond Laser
Authors: AlAwadhi M. , Yassine A.
Published: May 2024

The usage of optical force techniques such as lasers, provides contactless, and non-mechanical, microcrystal manipulation. Nanocrystalline materials are commonly produced using methods such as mechanical alloying, electrodeposition… (etc.). Bimetallic alloys and nanostructures containing Iron and Copper have been utilized for environmental solutions due to their exceptional electric and magnetic properties. The purpose of this study is to investigate the physical and optical properties of Iron Copper (FeCu) nanoparticles that are generated using femtosecond laser from Fe50Cu50 powder. Ethanol and vacuum mediums are utilized as alternative ablation mediums. Characterization of the material has been conducted through XRD, EDX and Absorption Spectroscopy. The resulted tests revealed a consistency in the iron and copper content, indicating that the material did not undergo any oxidation during the ablation processes. The absorption spectroscopy results revealed that the ablated nanoparticles resonated at a different wavelength than the bulk material, demonstrating that there was a shift in the optical properties. Additionally, the materials generated from ablation in Ethanol resulted in smaller grains compared to Vacuum ablation. Moreover, the chemical homogeneity was retained with no changes compared to the starting micron size particles which were utilized as a target for the ablation process.
Oxidative Stripping of Starch-AgNPs for Nanomolar Indirect Electrochemical Sensing of BSA Using an L-Cysteine Modified Glassy Carbon Electrode
Authors: Ziad Rania , Kawde Abdel-Nasser , AbdelHamid Ayman , Daoudi Kais
Published: May 2024

In this study, an L-cystine-modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) was developed as an electrochemical platform based on AgNP oxidative stripping for nanomolar indirect detection of bovine serum albumin (BSA) biomacromolecules. The Poly-L-Cys was formed by L-cysteine (L-Cys) monomers electro-polymerization on the GCE surface. L-Cys pending groups interacted with AgNPs through Ag-S chemical bonds while it interacted with BSA through van der Waals forces and hydrogen bonding. To characterize the bare GCE and GCE/L-Cys, cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy were used. The oxidative stripping of AgNPs by the addition of BSA was monitored using linear sweep stripping analysis.
Topological spin-torque in non-collinear anti-ferromagnetic 3Q state
Authors: Abbout Adel
Published: May 2024

We investigate the spin torque in the topological phase of the 3Q antiferromagnetic (AFM) configuration. We first obtain the band structure to identify the topology and nature of the different gaps of the system and then calculate the spin density in the whole system. We demonstrate the presence of a non-vanishing spin-torque component at the edge of the system and analyze its effect on the texture. Moreover, we show that the direction of the torque depends hugely on the way we cut the system to define the edge.
Co-Al layered double oxide activated carbon composite for eliminating lead ions from water
Authors: Abushawish Alaa , Chatla Anjaneyulu , Almanassra Ismail W , Shanableh Abdallah , Atieh Muataz Ali
Published: May 2024

In the current study, preparation of cobalt-aluminum layered double oxide doped activated carbon (Co-Al LDO/AC) was achieved by the co-precipitation technique and utilized for the remediation of lead (Pb2+) from water. Various methods were employed to examine the properties of the composite material, including BET, XRD, FTIR, SEM, and EDS analysis. The material characterization outcomes indicated that the LDO structure was successfully incorporated into the AC matrices with a surface area of 189.4 m2/g. The influence of adsorption parameters including Co-Al LDO/AC dosage, period of contact, initial Pb2+ loading, and initial solution pH were investigated. Moreover, the isotherm and kinetic models were investigated to provide a deeper understanding of the elimination mechanism of Pb2+ ions. The adsorption results illustrated that pH has a substantial influence on Pb2+ removal with a highest removal effectiveness at pH = 6 and a fast adsorption rate within 7 h. The kinetic data were well aligned with the pseudo-second-order model while the isotherm data obeyed the Sips model (R2>0.966). The highest adsorption uptake, estimated by the Sips model was 25.09 mg/g. Considering the modeling and characterization of the spent Co-Al LDO/AC, a chemical interaction process was involved in the elimination process and mainly controlled by ion exchange, electrostatic interactions, and surface complexation mechanisms. Accordingly, the Co-Al LDO/AC could have great potential as a promising hybrid for the purification of toxic Pb2+ ions from contaminated water streams.
New 2D penta-SiPN: A wide and indirect bandgap semiconductor
Authors: Qattan I. A. , Sharma Shambhu Bhandari , Santosh KC , Abedrabbo Sufian
Published: May 2024

In recent years, two-dimensional (2D) pentagonal ternary monolayers have attracted much attention and emerged as a new class of materials because of their new feature and extensive applicability. Using first-principles density functional theory (DFT) calculations, we predict a new 2D pentagonal-SiPN or p-SiPN monolayer material. The new monolayer has shown to be structurally, thermodynamically, and dynamically stable. Our findings imply that p-SiPN is a wide and indirect bandgap semiconductor, with a highly tunable bandgap with applied equ-biaxial strain. This makes p-SiPN a promising candidate for futuristic optoelectronics and nanomechanics device applications.
Fast and Facile Synthesis of Passivated Perovskite Single Crystals with Zn-Porphyrin Derivatives
Authors: Soopy Abdul Kareem K. , Parida Bhaskar , Najar Adel
Published: May 2024

Organic-inorganic trihalide, ABX3 perovskite are excellent candidates for advanced optoelectronic applications beyond photovoltaics. Perovskite single crystals offer several advantageous special features, such as a long diffusion length, low trapped carrier density, and outstanding environmental stability to use in optoelectronics. In this work, Zn has been incorporated into MAPbBr3 single crystals as Zn- Porphyrin to passivate the bulk crystals and enhance their optical and electrical properties. The inverse temperature crystallization phenomenon was used to crystallize MAPbBr3 rapidly in hot solutions. The structural and optical characterization confirms that the passivation enhanced the optoelectronic properties of the single crystals.
Parametric study of bio-char production from the co-pyrolysis of tire and coffee wastes via fixed bed reactor
Authors: Žabčić Martina , Hilal Lina , Rocha-Meneses Lisandra , Inayat Abrar , Ghenai Chaouki , Shanableh Abdallah
Published: May 2024

Co-pyrolysis has become an eye-catching process for obtaining fuel and biochar and is attracting attention from both the scientific and industrial communities. One of the reasons for this is the wide variety of raw materials for the process itself and the possibility of obtaining attractive and high-quality products. The influence of three distinctive parameters has been studied on the co-pyrolysis reaction. These variables were temperature, reaction time, and plastic ratio. The results were analysed using Response Surface Methodology (RSM), and it was found that the optimum conditions to produce biochar from the co-pyrolysis of coffee and tire wastes were 359.441 °C, 10 minutes of reaction duration, and a plastic ratio of 97.8528 wt.%.
Highly ordered TiO2 Nanotubes decorated with plasmonic silver nanoparticles (TiO2/Ag) for ultra-sensitive SERS detection of textile dye contaminant Rhodamine 6 G
Authors: Ramachandran Krithikadevi , Rebhi Ameni , Trabelsi Khaled , Hajjaji Anouar , Soucase Bernabé Mari , Bessais Brahim , Gaidi Mounir
Published: May 2024

We report a susceptible, ultrafast, molecular fingerprint-specific detection tool of analytes at an extreme trace concentration using surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). Highly ordered TiO2 Nanotubes (NT) modified with plasmonic Ag nanoparticles (Ag) are fabricated by wet chemical strategy. TiO2/Ag nanostructures could benefit the SERS mechanism arising from the effects of both the charge transfer process within TiO2/Ag/analyte and the enhancement in the electromagnetic field by the twining of plasmonic Ag nanoparticles with the construction of semiconductor/plasmonic bi-component system (TiO2/Ag). To achieve a better density of Ag NPs on TiO2 nanotubes, the photoinduction process irradiation time was varied from 10 min to 40 min. The prepared bicomponent SERS system was validated for its structural and morphological properties. SERS optimization studies were analyzed with the probe molecule Rhodamine 6 G (R6G) with an initial concentration of 10−6M. The highest SERS enhancement was notified with TiO2/Ag20 min for R6G sensing. The fabricated optical sensor reproducibility in signal detection was scrutinized with Raman mapping studies and statistically validated by low RSD values of 9.8%. Furthermore, their detectability was gauged with low concentration detection of R6G down to Pico-molar levels (10−12M). Synergistic effects of both CT and EM contributed to SERS enhancement to trace and detected pico-levels of R6G by the fabricated bicomponent semiconductor/ plasmonic heterostructure system (TiO2/Ag 20 min).
Efficient Cooling for Agricultural Greenhouses in Hot Climates: A Novel Water Light Filter Design
Authors: AlSadah Jihad Hassan
Published: May 2024

The use of agricultural greenhouses in hot climates requires transparent enclosures to enable cooling for optimal plant growth. However, the cooling process incurs high water and energy costs due to solar gain and heat trapping. To address this issue, a novel enclosure design featuring a layer of liquid or water solution between two commercial grade glass layers has been proposed. This water solution absorbs thermal radiation and can be circulated through an active heat dissipation system. Carefully selected dyes can also be added to enhance water filter performance, allowing sufficient photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) through to the plants while blocking more of the non-PAR radiation.

To evaluate the efficiency of the proposed filter, a shading filter was used as a benchmarking scheme. The tests were conducted using clear water, mineral oil, and water with four commercially available pigments. Results indicated a reduction in the thermal load ranging from 31-62%, while the reduction in the photosynthetically active portion of the solar spectrum ranged from 32-79%. The clear water filter performed the best, blocking 45% of the thermal load while allowing 69% of weighted PAR radiation. This allowed for an additional 14% of PAR radiation compared to an equivalent 45% transparent shading device.

This new liquid filter design is effective in reducing cooling costs for agricultural greenhouses in hot climates, while still allowing for optimal plant growth. The clear water filter was found to be the most effective in blocking non-PAR radiation while still allowing sufficient PAR for the plants. However, there is potential for future work to identify additives that could enhance the filter’s overall performance. Engineering and technoeconomic development should be pursued to implement this technology for practical use in the field.
Enhanced photocatalytic activities of LaCoO3 perovskite nanostructures for degrading cationic and anionic dyes
Authors: Irshad Muhammed , Columbus Soumya , Parambath Javad B. M.
Published: May 2024

Sustainable and cost-effective technologies are crucial for addressing environmental pollution issues. Perovskite photocatalysts have gained increased attention as a potential solution which could be accounted to their tuneable structural characteristics, flexible bandgap, and superior catalytic properties. In this study, we synthesized Lanthanum Cobaltite (LaCoO3) perovskite nanostructures via co-precipitation for photocatalytic purposes. Morphological analysis revealed LaCoO3 nanoparticles with an average size of ∼33 nm whose crystalline characteristics were investigated as a function of annealing temperatures. We found that the pure and crystalline LaCoO3 phase formed after the post-annealing process at 600°C. Photocatalytic studies showed that the degradation potential of LaCoO3 was significantly improved when hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) was added as co-catalyst system. We achieved degradation efficiencies of up to 91% and 85% for MB and methyl orange (MO), respectively. LaCoO3/H2O2 exhibited excellent photocatalytic potential for degrading both anionic and cationic organic dyes for environmental remediation applications.
A Study on Plasminogen-Ag Nanoparticles Interaction and its Application in Sensor Development
Authors: AbdelHamid A , Boukhatem H , Elgamouz A , Bajou K
Published: May 2024

The interaction between plasminogen and Ag nanoparticles is studied using different techniques and applied for plasminogen sensor development. Ag nanoparticles are synthesized using an algal extract and their absorbance, emission, and electrochemical oxidation signals are detected and monitored as a function of plasminogen concentration. The variation in the optical and electrochemical properties of Ag nanoparticles is correlated with the changes in the hydrodynamic size of the bioconjugate at different plasminogen concentrations. A steady decrease in the absorbance and electrochemical oxidation peak of Ag nanoparticles is observed, while a threshold plasminogen concentration results in increasing the emission of Ag nanoparticles followed by a steady decrease in signal. The decrease in the optical and electrochemical oxidation signal of Ag nanoparticles agrees with the plasminogen-induced Ag nanoparticle agglomeration shown by dynamic light scattering. Calibration curves are established based on the absorbance, emission, and voltammetric studies obtaining a limit of detection as low as 0.740 nM with a wide linear range of 0.942-18.2 nM, which is a very promising analytical system for plasminogen detection, facilitating its progress as a biomarker for different biomedical applications.
High granularity resistive Micromegas for tracking detectors in future experiments
Authors: Camerlingo M.T. , Alviggi M. , Biglietti M. , Della Pietra M. , Di Nardo R. , Iengo P. , Iodice M. , Petrucci F. , Sekhniaidze G. , Sessa M.
Published: May 2024

After exploring different solutions and testing several options, the high granularity resistive Micromegas technology is now mature enough to offer an efficient operation up to particle rates of 10 MHz/cm2, maintaining the gas amplification above 104, with a large margin before breakdown in order to ensure a stable and reliable operation.
The detector exploits small-size readout pads for occupancy reduction and a double Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) resistive layer with a network of dot-connections to ground for a fast charge evacuation.
The double-layer allows preserving the minimum resistance to suppress the discharge intensity for stable operations.
The performance measured with particle beams at CERN have shown a spatial resolution below 100 μm for mm-wide readout pads and a few ns time resolution.
Now, the technology is being scaled to larger areas, with the construction of detectors with an active area of ∼20×20 cm2 (already achieved) and new ∼40×50 cm2 prototypes under construction.
An overview of the detector technology, including the latest results, is presented in terms of the gain and rate capability (measured in the laboratory) and efficiency, time and spatial resolution (measured at the CERN SPS). Possible applications in HEP experiments, as well as future developments, are also reported.
Kinetic equation for stochastic vector bundles
Authors: Zhong De-yu , Wang Guang-Qian
Published: May 2024

The kinetic equation is crucial for understanding the statistical properties of stochastic processes, yet current equations, such as the classical Fokker–Planck, are limited to local analysis. This paper derives a new kinetic equation for stochastic systems on vector bundles, addressing global scale randomness. The kinetic equation was derived by cumulant expansion of the ensemble-averaged local probability density function, which is a functional of state transition trajectories. The kinetic equation is the geodesic equation for the probability space. It captures global and historical influences, accounts for non-Markovianity, and can be reduced to the classical Fokker–Planck equation for Markovian processes. This paper also discusses relative issues concerning the kinetic equation, including non-Markovianity, Markov approximation, macroscopic conservation equations, gauge transformation, and truncation of the infinite-order kinetic equation, as well as limitations that require further attention.
Fermion quadrature bases for Wigner functionals
Authors: Roux Filippus S
Published: May 2024

A Grassmann functional phase space is formulated for the definition of fermionic Wigner functionals by identifying suitable fermionic operators that are analogues to boson quadrature operators. Instead of the Majorana operators, we use operators that are defined with relative spin transformations between the ladder operators. The eigenstates of these operators are shown to provide orthogonal bases, provided that the dual space is defined with the incorporation of a spin transformation. These bases then serve as quadrature bases in terms of which Wigner functionals are defined in a way equivalent to the bosonic case. As an application, we consider a two-level fermion system.
Regional Economic Growth and the Heterogeneity Effect of Rail Network Connectivity in West Java Province
Authors: Pradono P , Furqan M I
Published: May 2024

This paper aims at determining the heterogeneity effect of rail network connectivity influence on regional economic growth in West Java Province employing a multiple linear regression analysis approach to panel data covering 27 districts/cities in 2010-2018. There are several variables that are used as input variables for analysis such as GRDP per capita (PDRBPKit) as the dependent variable, connectivity (Konektivitasit) as the independent variable, and economic variables (Public Government Investment per capita (invpit); Private Investment per capita (invsit); Human Capital (ipmit); Agricultural Contribution (agricultureit); Industry Contribution (industriit); Service Contribution (jasait); and Population (populationit) as control variables. Some control variables show significant results in the heterogeneity effect. The results obtained show that the interaction of rail network connectivity with government investment and the contribution of the service sector is negative, the contribution of the industrial sector and population is positive.
Urban Transportation Planning in the Perspective of Public Health in the City of Jakarta, Indonesia
Authors: Miharja Miming , Budi Utomo Muhammad
Published: May 2024

Public health is one of the basic sectors that are influenced by transportation. Public health factors related with transportation performances are environmental quality, people access to health facilities, traffic safety, mode choice and its relationship with health, and disease spreading risk. Based on the case of Transportation Master Plan (Rencana Induk Transportasi Jakarta, RITJ) of Capital Jakarta, Indonesia, this paper explores the topic of how adequate urban transportation planning in Indonesia accommodate health factors in its process and substance. This study takes quantitative method to identify Jakarta transportation condition in relation with health sector and to understand to what extent transportation planning accommodate health factors. Qualitative method is also used to analyze people perception regarding the level of the transportation planning process in accommodating their interest in health. The research concludes that the negative impact of transportation activities to the health sector in Jakarta such as air pollution, traffic accident, and passive mode choice are still high. The RITJ planning process did not accommodate urban health criteria adequately. This paper suggests a better transportation planning to assure adequate accommodation of urban health criteria both in its process and substances.
Spatial vulnerability assessment of climate-related disasters in the Rebana Metropolitan Coastal Area, West Java Province
Authors: Salim Wilmar , Wijaya Nurrohman , Ramadhan Fitrah , Iman Hanafi Kholifatul
Published: May 2024

Human activities have become the main significant factor of the occurrence of climate change. Because of this phenomenon, the negative impacts of climate change influence human life itself, especially for the people who live in coastal area. One part of the Rebana Metropolitan Area in West Java Province is the coastal area consisting of Indramayu, Subang, and Cirebon regencies, which is closely related to climate-related disasters issues, such as coastal flooding and sea-level rise. To adapt the negative impacts of climate change, the local decision-makers should know the vulnerability to climate-related disasters. Therefore, the vulnerability assessment of climate-related disasters should be conducted. The spatial assessment was applied in this study to give a deeper perspective on the spatial vulnerability index. This study used georeferenced statistical data of three aspects (physical, geological, and socio-economical). These data then were overlaid with the support of the Geographical Information System (GIS) and eventually produced the vulnerability index for each zone. Based on the result, the Rebana Metropolitan Coastal Area has high vulnerability indexes (9 of 16 districts in these three coastal areas are very vulnerable). Two reasons have been identified. First, the intensity of rainfall and sea-level rise index that occurs annually in Indramayu and Subang is very high. Second, at the same time, these regencies have many vital infrastructures that make the massive potential of losses when climate-related disasters happen in the future. For the Cirebon case, the lack of supportive socio-economy situation in the coastal area has become the main factor for its vulnerability index. Based on these findings, the decision-makers could create different approaches to improve the resilience of each area. In Indramayu and Subang cases, their resilience could be strategically improved by strengthening their physical aspects, especially by ensuring the government protects their vital infrastructures. Meanwhile, for the Cirebon case, the government could be more concerned with its population density and income per capita for each district so that more people could avoid the coastal disaster directly and push their livelihood up in the more uncertain environment.
Evaluation of collaborative water governance in the Cinambo Sub-watershed, Bandung City (case study: Wetland Park Cisurupan)
Authors: Putri Kamila Naimah , Kustiwan Iwan
Published: May 2024

The “Wetland Park Cisurupan” Retention Area development program is one of the multi-stakeholder collaboration programs in the Cinambo Sub-watershed initiated by Bandung City Public Works Agency. This retention area is expected to reduce water runoff to Gedebage Sub-Region. Collaborative governance efforts carried out at Wetland Park Cisurupan need to be evaluated to serve as lessons for stakeholders and as follow-up recommendations. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the extent to which the Cisurupan Wetland Park development program in the context of the cinambo sub-watershed has implemented the principles of collaborative water governance. To achieve this goal, this research uses qualitative descriptive methods. Data processing uses data sourced from primary data, namely observation, interviews, collecting big data from social media in the form of WhatsApp chat groups “Cisurupan Temporer”, “Strategic plan Cisurupan”, and “Cisurupan 4 october” as well as Instagram posts with the hashtag #wetlandparkcisurupan, interviews, then secondary data from government agencies and the internet. Based on the measurement of 23 indicators of collaborative water governance in the sub-watershed, it can be concluded that the Wetland Park Cisurupan program is sufficient to meet the principles of collaborative water governance in the sub-watershed. Communication between stakeholders in this collaboration, which is seen from WhatsApp and Instagram, is considered effective for coordination, increasing public participation, and avoiding latent conflicts becoming manifest by being open to the collaboration process. Facilitative leadership is one of the keys to consistency in collaborative governance.
Design of Retention Pond Kacang Pedang Area as a Water Tourism Recreation Using Water Sensitive Urban Design
Authors: Guinensa F , Putra B D , Rani M S
Published: May 2024

The issue of changes in natural conditions, Pangkal Pinang City as a downstream area of the Baturusa Watershed (DAS) with a city center whose city morphology is a basin resulting in Pangkal Pinang City receiving excessive water runoff, plus land deforestation due to illegal mining in the upstream river which is directly adjacent to the Regency Central Bangka which causes excessive sedimentation and poorly connected drainage channels. The existence of high rainfall intensity and the uncontrolled capacity of the retention pond causes the water level to rise which then flows into the retention pond area. As a result, the Rangkui river causes excessive water runoff, resulting in floods that spread to residential areas and the center of Pangkal Pinang City. The purpose of this study was to provide design concepts for the retention pond area using the Water Sensitive Urban Design method as a strategy for urban water management, particularly in the region of raw water sources. The design process is a fragmented one that starts with a collection of regional design-related problems and ends with a simulation of regional design. Recreational, residential, and educational activities will all be accommodated within the design area’s 94 hectares. The design of the area will focus on urban design elements combined with normative principles, namely land use, intensity and building, circulation and parking, pedestrian ways, open spaces, signage, preservation, and activity support. In addition, the design simulation will also focus on the water management system in the area with a WSUD technical approach that is directed to focus on efforts to infiltrate rainwater and provide rainwater storage containers, both in open spaces, green areas, and buildings.
Digital Inclusion in Rural Areas: A Case Study in Two Indonesian Villages
Authors: Sheila A’AK , Fahmi FZ
Published: May 2024

The acceleration of digital transformation is an unavoidable challenge for all countries worldwide, including in rural areas. However, there is a digital divide between rural and urban areas. Digital inclusion is a condition that needs to be achieved to close the gap. This study aims to measure digital inclusion based on four key dimensions: access, skills, use, and supportive environment, which are represented by several indicators and variables at the village level. We compare two cases in Indonesia, namely Tamansari Village initiated by the government and Melung Village initiated by the local community. Our results show that digital inclusion in both cases already has the dimensions of access and actual use which tend to be suitable for the majority of the households. However, the skills and supportive environment dimensions still need to be improved in the two study areas. It is indicated because the approach are still focused on providing access, not improving skills through optimizing the benefits of digital technology.