bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Halal Tourism and Industry in Blue Economy (Analysis on Kepulauan Riau Challenges Towards the Cross Border strategic location with neighbouring countries Singapore and Malaysia – Case Study Pulau Penyengat)
Authors: Pangestoeti Wahjoe , Amalia Eva , Alfiandri Alfiandri , Firman Firman , Azizi Okky Rizki , Gemilang Reza
Published: October 2024

Kepulauan Riau’s strategic geographic position, particularly its proximity to Singapore and Malaysia, offers immense potential for the development of Halal tourism and industry within the Blue Economy framework. This research focuses on Pulau Penyengat Island, a historically and culturally significant Islamic site, and examines the challenges and opportunities posed by the maritime border issues in this region. The study employs a qualitative methodology, utilizing interviews with local stakeholders, policymakers, and industry experts, alongside document analysis of regulatory frameworks and regional agreements. Key themes identified include cross-border cooperation, the impact of maritime border disputes on tourism development, and the integration of Halal standards in tourism and industry. Findings indicate that while Pulau Penyengat is poised to become a focal point for Halal tourism, challenges related to maritime boundaries and regulatory inconsistencies with neighboring countries complicate its progress. By addressing these challenges through targeted policies and collaborative frameworks, Kepulauan Riau can capitalize on its strategic location to enhance its Halal industry and contribute to sustainable Blue Economy initiatives. This study provides actionable insights for policymakers seeking to navigate maritime border complexities while promoting economic and cultural growth.
Innovative Governance of Blue Economy in Coastal Community Empowerment Bintan Regency
Authors: Alfiandri Alfiandri , Abdul Malik Jalaluddin , Adianto Adianto
Published: October 2024

This study explores the application of blue economy principles to empower coastal communities in Bintan Regency, which possesses abundant marine resources. Through qualitative methods, including in-depth interviews, field observations, and document reviews, the research identifies key challenges such as external interference, financial constraints, and a lack of skilled human resources. Despite these barriers, initiatives like job skills training, financial aid, and eco-tourism development are underway. The findings highlight the importance of community involvement in governance, emphasizing that local populations must actively participate in decision- making processes. Additionally, the study recommends robust monitoring and evaluation systems to support adaptive policies, with collaboration between government, the private sector, and local communities being essential. Ultimately, the research provides policy recommendations to foster an inclusive and sustainable blue economy that addresses socio- economic disparities and positions communities as active agents of change in their own empowerment.
Legal Implications of Corruption Cases Without Initial State Losses in Audit but Found During Investigation Case Of Issuing Ship Permits
Authors: Fatria MHD. , Danil Elwi , Zurnetti Aria , Fendri Azmi
Published: October 2024

The calculation of state financial losses is crucial in proving corruption cases. Besides serving as evidence in corruption cases, state financial losses are also one of the elements that must be proven in a corruption case. The calculation of state financial losses forms the basis for the public prosecutor’s indictment to determine the extent of the state’s financial losses caused by the defendant’s actions in a corruption case. Likewise, the judge must determine the amount of state losses the defendant must repay. The institution authorized to calculate state financial losses related to corruption cases is implicitly stated in the explanation of Article 32 paragraph (1) of the Law on the Eradication of Corruption, which stipulates that actual state financial losses are those that can be calculated based on findings from competent institutions or appointed public accountants, namely BPK (State Audit Board). However, based on Article 30 of Law No. 16 of 2004, one of the duties and authorities of the public prosecutor is to gather data and collect evidence. In certain cases, the public prosecutor can easily calculate the amount of state losses, enabling the prosecutor to calculate and determine the state financial losses independently.
A Study on Leveraging Library Infrastructure for Entrepreneurial Development
Authors: Deryane Imalinda , Bayti Nur , Sufnirayanti Sufnirayanti , Putra Agriend S. , Liang Rendy
Published: October 2024

The concept of entrepreneurship has undergone a significant narrowing of meaning. If in the past, entrepreneurs were synonymous with business people who had assets, turnover, and measurable business strategies, now entrepreneurs can refer to small traders. Home-based businesses, micro, small, and medium enterprises that should have a good entrepreneurial concept have now largely forgotten the important aspects of entrepreneurship. The low interest in entrepreneurship has an impact on the lack of development of surrounding UMKM. UMKM that have been established but require further development are a great potential in the local economy. With the existing foundation, strategic steps can be taken to improve the quality, competitiveness, and scale of these UMKM. The paradigm shift has taken libraries beyond their function as places to store books. Now, libraries serve as comprehensive resource centers, including for businesses that need access to information and supportive workspaces. As centers of information and innovation, libraries are now playing an active role in supporting local economic growth, especially by providing the facilities and services needed by businesses. This research focuses on the utilization of library facilities that can be accessed and utilized by entrepreneurs, thereby increasing the interest in genuine entrepreneurship by fulfilling the important aspects of entrepreneurship.
Policy Implementation Process in the Management of Tanjungpinang City Waste Bank to Realize the Blue Economy
Authors: Yudithia Yudithia , Akhyary Edy , Alfiandri Alfiandri , Kurnianingsih Fitri , Samin Rumzi , Subiyakto Rudi , Sentosa Ilham , Yafi Eiad
Published: October 2024

This research aims to analyze the implementation process of waste bank management policies in Tanjungpinang City by utilizing secondary data and triangulation analysis, based on Edward III’s policy implementation theory. The research method is qualitative, relying on secondary data collected from government reports, academic publications, policy documents, and statistical data. Triangulation is used to cross-verify the information, aligning it with Edward III’s theory, which includes four critical variables: bureaucratic structure, implementer disposition, resources, and communication. This approach allows for a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing the effectiveness of policy implementation for waste management. The study identifies that efficiency and transparency in the bureaucratic structure, along with proactive behavior among implementers, are crucial for the success of the waste bank program. However, challenges such as a lack of public awareness and insufficient funding persist. The findings suggest that improving the competency of implementers, providing adequate infrastructure support, and enhancing communication between the government and the community are essential steps to overcoming these barriers. Therefore, this study not only provides an analysis of the current state but also offers practical recommendations to inform future policy adjustments and improve the waste management system in Tanjungpinang.
Digital Human Resource Management in Maritime Enterprises
Authors: Pratiwi Mirza Ayunda , Tiyasiningsih Ezky , Fani Lastri Anggi
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the adoption of Digital Human Resource Management (DHRM) systems in the maritime industry of the Riau Islands (Kepri), Indonesia. Through qualitative research involving interviews, observations, and literature reviews with HR leaders from marine tourism, fisheries, and port logistics, the study identifies eight key areas of DHRM adoption: Digital Recruitment, Digital Performance Management, Digital Training and Development, Digital Communication, Employee Data Management, Digital Employee Engagement, Digital Diversity and Inclusion, and Adoption of New Technology. The findings reveal significant opportunities for enhancing efficiency, improving objective performance tracking, and streamlining recruitment processes. However, challenges persist, including limited human resources, reliance on centralized decision-making, inadequate technological infrastructure, and a predominant focus on seagoing workforce development. These barriers impede the full implementation of DHRM. Despite these challenges, the research underscores DHRM’s potential to foster digital innovation and gain a competitive edge within the maritime sector. In conclusion, addressing these challenges through targeted strategies will be essential for maximizing the benefits of DHRM and advancing the digital transformation of human resource practices in the industry
The Role Of Bacteria In Microplastic Bioremediation And Implications For Marine Ecosystems
Authors: Irawan Nina , Pranita Sarah Deriska , Edelwis T.W. , Pardi Hilfi , Ramadhani Silmi Yusri
Published: October 2024

Microplastics are micro particles <5 mm in size that pose a threat to the survival of organisms living on land and in the ocean. Microplastics contain toxic and carcinogenic or persistent chemicals that will directly or indirectly have a negative impact on marine ecosystems. The process of decomposing waste into microplastics takes a very long time that can take hundreds of years. This can be overcome by the use of bacteria using bioremediation techniques to degrade microplastics in the marine ecosystem. With regard to this, this article aims to review the role of bacteria in degrading microplastics and their impact on marine ecosystems. The method used in this article is a literature review by reviewing related and relevant articles as references. The articles obtained will be sorted according to the topic of the role of bacteria in microplastic bioremediation. Furthermore, it will be analyzed and the results used as a reference for the preparation of this article. The results of the review that the author found were that Pseudomonas, Ochrobactrum, Halomonas sp and Clostridium botulinum bacteria were able to become agents of microplastic degradation in the marine ecosystem.
The Importance of Understanding the Current Status of Critically Endangered Species in Shark Fisheries in Muncar, Indonesia
Authors: Osmaleli Osmaleli , Adrianto Luky , Kusumastanto Tridoyo , Yulianto Gatot , Salim Muhammad , Rizka Antika , Tawang Firmansyah , Larasati Chindy , Fadloli Ahmad , Booth Hollie
Published: October 2024

One-third of all elasmobranch species are classified as globally threatened (i.e., vulnerable, endangered, or critically endangered) according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, The Sphyrnidae family, once among the most abundant shark species complexes, now faces one of highest extinction risks by the IUCN in 2019. This study aimed to analyse the total catch of Sphyrnidae in Muncar, East Java, Indonesia, from 2020 to 2023, and to evaluate the proportion of Sphyrnidae catches relative to other shark during this period. The research utilized both primary and secondary data sources, with daily enumeration conducted, using guidebooks, rulers, hand scales, cameras, code tags, plastic mats, and identification books. The results revealed that most Sphyrnidae catches over the past four years were Sphyrna lewini, with 653 females and 433 males recorded. In contrast, Sphyrna mokarran and Sphyrna zygaena were only landed in minimal numbers over the entire period. Furthermore, S. lewini accounted for less than 15% of the total shark catch, with an average of 58 shark species caught annually. The use of fishing gear by fishers operating vessels under 5 Gross Tonnage (GT) with gillnets in the 10-28 GT range with longlines was identified as significant factor influencing catch composition.”
Length-Weight Relationships of Lutjanus decussatus as Conservation Target Species in Anambas Islands Marine Protected Area, Indonesia
Authors: Palufi Gita Endang , Anggara Satria Putra , Laia Dominikus Yoeli Wilson , Shabari Anugrah Riskel , Daniel Nadia Amalina , Irfansyah Rahmat , Nguyen Huong Mai , Susiana Susiana
Published: October 2024

Lutjanus decussatus, commonly known as the checkered snapper or sadang fish (locally), is a key coral reef species in the Anambas Islands Marine Protected Area (MPA) and serves as a conservation target and indicator of reef health. This study analyzes the length-weight relationship and growth patterns of sadang fish within the MPA. Purposive sampling was conducted from February to October 2023, with 537 samples collected (175 males, 362 females). Male fish reached a total length (TL) of 29 cm and a weight of 345 g, while females attained a TL of 30 cm and a weight of 410 g. The R² values were 0.93 for males and 0.90 for females. The length-weight regression exponent b was 2.762 for males and 2.748 for females, indicating negative allometric growth (b < 3), where length increases faster than weight. This is the first study to examine the length- weight relationship of L. decussatus in the Anambas Islands MPA, providing essential biological and fisheries data to inform species management strategies.
Boosting Antioxidant Activity and Phenolic Content in Scenedesmus dimorphus
Authors: Edelwis Tri Widya , Nabila Aulia , Setyo Kitton Noor Ikhsan Kurniawan , Meicyntia Bella , Elisabet Nababan Roma Rejeki , Mahligai Setyawan Sheilla , Zivva Zein , Pardi Hilfi , Guriph Panca
Published: October 2024

Scenedesmus dimorphus, a microalgae from the Chlorophyceae class, possesses compounds with antioxidant potential. This study focuses on determining the antioxidant activity of the methanol extract of *Scenedesmus dimorphus* cultured in Bold Basal Medium (BBM) with NaCl concentrations of 10 g/L, 12.5 g/L, and 15 g/L. NaCl was added after 3, 6, and 9 days of cultivation to evaluate the impact on antioxidant activity. The antioxidant activity was assessed using the DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2- picrylhydrazyl) assay. The results showed that the highest antioxidant activity occurred in cultures with 15 g/L NaCl, with DPPH inhibition of 13.71% and a biomass yield of 0.1914 g in 500 mL of medium. The microalgae demonstrated the ability to withstand NaCl stress, showing improved antioxidant activity over time. On day 9, with the addition of 15 g/L NaCl, the antioxidant activity increased to 26.82%, the IC50 value was 183.63 mg/L, and the biomass weight reached 0.2568 g in 500 mL of medium. Additionally, the total phenolic content increased to 70.10 mg GAE/g extract on day 9. These findings suggest that NaCl stress at specific intervals enhances both antioxidant activity and phenolic content in Scenedesmus dimorphus.
Synthesis of LaNiCeO2 Mixed Oxide with Various Microcrystalline Cellulose Templated for Deoxygenation of Waste Cooking Oil
Authors: Octora Radhila Widya Putri , Fernanda Ingelia Yuan , Ersyada Trias Alzatory , Jovita Stella , Agustina Khawiyatur Riv’ah , Aminudin Mukhamad Rojib , Rosyidah Afifah , Prasetyoko Didik , Ramdhani Eka Putra , Mijan Nurul Asikin
Published: October 2024

The synthesis of LaNiCeO2 mixed oxides utilizing varying proportions of microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) (12.5%, 25%, and 37.5%) has been successfully achieved. The resulting materials were characterized through XRD, FESEM, N2 adsorption-desorption isotherms, and TGA- DTG. XRD analysis confirmed that all synthesized LaNiCeO2 mixed oxides exhibited a stable CeO2 phase. Notably, increasing the MCC content led to an improvement in the catalysts’ pore volume and surface area, with the LaNiCeO2-12.5% MCC sample exhibiting a primarily mesoporous structure and minimal micropore contribution. The LaNiCeO2-25% MCC catalyst demonstrated optimal physicochemical properties, indicating its high suitability for catalytic applications. The catalytic deoxygenation of waste cooking oil (WCO) was carried out in a semi-batch reactor at 380 °C for a duration of 4 hours, with a catalyst loading set at 1% of the WCO’s weight. The LaNiCeO2-12.5% MCC catalyst exhibited exceptional deoxygenation activity, achieving a 100% conversion, a liquid product yield of 45%, and hydrocarbon selectivity of 98%. The excellent catalytic performance is due to the synergistic interaction between Ni, Ce, and La metals, combined with improved properties that promote the deoxygenation reaction. These results highlight the potential of LaNiCeO2 as an effective catalyst for biofuel production.
Method for Calculating the Coral Health Index (Case Study: Mapur Island, Bintan, Indonesia)
Authors: Kurniawan Rika , Dwirama Putra Risandi , Aji Ludi Parwadani
Published: October 2024

This study evaluates the health and condition of coral reefs in the Mapur Island - Bintan Conservation Area, located in the Riau Islands Province, Indonesia. The research was conducted at 5 site locations using the Underwater Photo Transect (UPT) method, with a focus on hard coral cover and the Coral Health Index (CHI). Coral lifeform data were analyzed using Coral Point Count with Excel extensions (CPCe) software. The results revealed significant variability in coral cover, ranging from 14.47% to 59.27%, with an average of 39.36%, placing the coral reefs in the “Moderate” category. However, despite high hard coral cover at some sites, coral health varied, with certain locations exhibiting significant disease prevalence. Among the 5 sites surveyed for CHI, four were classified as “healthy,” while one were categorized “diseased.” Statistical analyses, including Welch’s t-test and Bayesian inference, indicated no significant difference between the CHI and hard coral cover, suggesting that high coral cover does not necessarily imply a healthier reef. Diseases such as Pink- Blotch Syndrome, Black Band Disease, and White Syndrome were prevalent across several sites, highlighting the influence of environmental stressors on coral health. The study underscores the importance of regular coral health monitoring and the need for conservation efforts to mitigate the impact of coral diseases and climate change. These findings provide crucial insights into the status of coral reefs in the Mapur Island - Bintan Conservation Area and contribute to broader efforts to preserve marine biodiversity.
Determination Of The Shelf Life Of Tamban Fish Choux Pastry (Sardinella Lemuru) Using The Accelerated Shelf Life Testing (Aslt) Method
Authors: Putri R. Marwita Sari , Jumsurizal Jumsurizal , Amrizal Sri Novalina , Apriandi Azwin , Ilhamdy Aidil Fadli , Viruly Lily , Oktavia Yulia , Ab Lah Roslizawati , Widianti Erika
Published: October 2024

Choux pastry is a light snack characterized by its small size, softness, volume, and yellow-brown color. The choux pastry product has been diversified with the addition of tamban fish. The fat content and moisture content in the tamban fish choux pastry are 37.77% fat and 8.41% moisture, respectively. Finding the ideal shelf life for tamban fish choux pastry (Sardinella lemuru) is the aim of this investigation. The Arrhenius model and the ASLT method are used to calculate the tamban fish choux pastry's shelf life. The product is kept in three different temperature ranges: 30˚, 40˚, and 50˚C, with moisture content tests conducted every 10 days on days 0, 10, 20, and 30 of storage. The total plate count (TPC) test results show the highest value on day 30 at 30˚C storage temperature, which is 2.5 x 10^3 CFU/ml. The hedonic test results show that the color of the choux pastry has an average score 2.34-2.81, aroma has an average score of 1.93-2.68, and texture has an average score of 2.28-2.76. Shelf determination life is based on critical parameters, specifically the TPC and hedonic. The results show that the tamban fish choux pastry 33 days at 30˚C, 35 days at 40˚C, and 33 days at 50˚C are the product's shelf lives.
Comparative disease incidence and prevalence in green and brown varieties of Kappaphycus alvarezii cultivated in Pelakak Village, Lingga District
Authors: Muzahar Muzahar , Raza’i T. Said , Viruly Lily
Published: October 2024

This study was aimed to analyze the disease incidence and prevalence development of Kappaphycus alvarezii from green and brown varieties. This study used a completely randomized design experimental method with two treatments and four replications. Seaweeds were reared with a longline culture method. The initial weight of seaweeds from each replication unit was 2.70 kg. Incidence and prevalence were observed every day until the 42-th day of culture period. All data obtained were analyzed with an independent t-test. The results showed that there were six incidents of pests and disease attack/infection on two seaweed varieties, namely: (1) Rabbitfish Siganus sp., (2) Epiphytic Filamentous Algae (EFA), (3) Green filamentous algae (Chaetomorpha sp.), (4) Brown seaweeds Sargassum sp., (5) Ice-ice disease, and (6) Fusarium sp. mold. Each attack/infection from six pests and disease was insignificantly different (p>0.05) on both seaweed varieties during observation. The weight gain of green variety slightly increased at 0.15±1.48kg, but the value was lower than brown variety at 0.73±0.39 kg. Therefore, both varieties of K. Alvarezii can be cultured at the same planting period. Pest and disease attacks can be reduced by moving the seaweed to other safer locations.
Morphological Study of The Pulai Watershed on Bintan Island, Riau Island
Authors: Azizah Diana , Lestari Febrianti , Apdillah Dony , Sabriyati Deni , Jaya Yales Veva , Noordianto M. Hendi , Noviansyah Noviansyah
Published: October 2024

The Riau Islands are a group of small islands whose entire land is divided into watersheds. One of the watersheds in the Riau Islands that is currently the main source of raw water for the community is Sei Pulai. The condition of the watershed on Bintan Island is greatly influenced by its morphometrics. The purpose of this study is to determine the morphological characteristics of the Pulai watershed on Bintan Island. This research was conducted in 2024 with observation by survey. Data processing is carried out by physical mapping of watersheds (soil, slope and geology). The results of the analysis showed that the Island watershed was included in the category of high rainfall (average rainfall of 2,500 -< 3,000 mm/year) but the intensity of rainfall was relatively low with an average ± 19.11 mm/day; the widest geological characteristics were composed of Pre-Tertiary and Quaternary sedimentary formations and igneous rocks consisting of granite and diorite; geomorphological characteristics consist of hills and undulating, rivers have low relief, laminar river flows and no rapids are found, with clear river water color; The slope of the Pulai watershed varies with class I slopes covering an area of ±412 Ha (7%); class II covering an area of ±4,071 Ha (74%); class III covering an area of ±897 Ha (16%); class IV covering an area of ±36 Ha (1%) and class V covering an area of ±83 Ha (2%); the shape of the slope of the Pulai watershed which has a hilly area with a sunken slope will produce a sharper hydrograph uplift. In general, the morphological characteristics of the Pulai watershed are geologically dominated by slopes of 8-15%, while geomorphology is dominated by the shape of old volcanic plains. Efforts are needed to rehabilitate and plant protected areas to overcome erosion caused by the slope of hilly land and fragile soil characteristics, especially protected areas outside forest areas during the rainy season.
Implementation Policy Maritime Security in Flight Information Region (FIR) Kepulauan Riau - Natuna
Authors: Margaretha Rita
Published: October 2024

This study discusses the implementation of maritime security in the Flight Information Region (FIR) of the Kepulauan Riau - Natuna, an area that has strategic value both politically, economically, and defense-wise. The management of this airspace was previously controlled by Singapore based on a mandate from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) since 1946, which poses challenges to Indonesia's sovereignty and security. The Collaborative Governance approach was applied to improve coordination between various stakeholders, including the Ministry of Defense, Ministry of Transportation, AirNav Indonesia, and the National Air Operations Command (KOOPSUDNAS). This study identified several major obstacles, such as overlapping regulations, technological limitations, and lack of participation and coordination between institutions. An in-depth analysis was conducted on the factors that influence the success of collaboration, including trust between stakeholders and institutional design that supports transparent and participatory processes. The results of this study indicate that increasing collaboration and harmonization of roles between institutions is essential to realizing optimal sovereignty and security in the FIR of the Kepulauan Riau - Natuna
State of the Art of the Theoretical Nuclear Physics
Authors: Kimura Masaaki
Published: October 2024

In this contribution, I summarizes the theoretical topics discussed at SOTANCP5, including various cluster states, clusters at the edges of the nuclear chart and in nuclear matter, and clustering aspects in reactions.
Signatures of clustering accessible with a Time Projection Chamber: TexAT
Authors: Bishop Jack , Ahn S. , Barbui M. , Kokalova Tz. , Koshchiy E. , Parker C.E. , Pirrie S.H. , Pollacco E.C. , Roeder B.T. , Rogachev G.V. , Saastamoinen A. , Wheldon C.
Published: October 2024

Many experimental observables in clustering require high-sensitivity, almost background-free measurements. The use of Time Projection Chambers (TPCs) over the past 15 years have demonstrated their capability as a step change in the accessibility of many of these observables, as well as the possibility to study clustering via new techniques.

A summary of the difficulties and pitfalls of determining the type of clustering from observables is briefly discussed, with a focus on α-condensation and the possibility of an additional (Efimov) 0+ state in 12C, below the Hoyle state. The expansion of the technique used to tackle this challenge to study 3α + p clustering in 13N is also discussed, highlighting the exciting opportunities TPCs provide to study clustering inaccessible by conventional means.

Finally, an overview of the recent and upcoming advances in TPC technology is given as well as listing additional future challenges that are needed to be overcome, in the context of discussing the next-generation upgrade to the existing TexAT TPC, known as TeBAT (TExas Birmingham Active Target).
Alpha-like correlations in 20Ne: Comparison of quartetting wave function and THSR approaches
Authors: Röpke Gerd , Xu Chang , Zhou Bo
Published: October 2024

20Ne can be considered as a double-magic 16O core nucleus surrounded by four nucleons, the constituents of an α-like quartet. Similar to other nuclei (212Po, 104Ti, etc.) with a quartet on top of a double-magic core nucleus, significant α-like correlations are expected. The quartetting wave function (QWF) approach predicts a large α-like cluster contribution near the surface of the nuclei. The Tohsaki-Horiuchi-Schuck-Röpke (THSR) approach describes α-like clustering in nuclear systems. The results of the QWF approach in the Thomas-Fermi and shell-model approximation are compared with THSR calculations for the container model.
Radiative Decay Branching Ratio of the Hoyle State in 12C via Charged Particle Coincidence Techniques
Authors: Dell’Aquila D. , Lombardo I. , Redigolo L. , Vigilante M. , Angelini F. , Baldesi L. , Barlini S. , Best A. , Camaiani A. , Casini G. , Ciampi C. , Cicerchia M. , D’Andrea M. , Diklić J. , Fabris D. , Gongora Servin B. , Gottardo A. , Gramegna F. , Imbriani G. , Marchi T. , Massara A. , Mengoni D. , Ordine A. , Palada L. , Pasquali G. , Piantelli S. , Pilotto E. , Rapagnani D. , Sigmund M. , Stefanini A. , Stramaccioni D. , Tagnani D. , Tišma I. , Valdré S. , Verde G. , Vukman N.
Published: October 2024

The properties of the Hoyle state in 12C (7.654 MeV, 0+) affect the rate at which carbon, one of the most abundant elements in the Universe, is forged in stars. Recent experiments reported values of its radiative decay branching ratio that are in tension, posing major implications especially in the astrophysical domain. This work reports on an almost background-free measurement of the radiative decay branching ratio of the Hoyle state that exploits charged particle coincidence techniques. The experiment adopts several methodologies to minimize the background and identify the rare signal associated with the radiative decay. Large care is devoted to having under full control two of the major sources of systematic errors in particle-coincidence experiments: the coincidence efficiency and the spurious coincidence rate. We find a radiative decay branching ratio of Γrad/Γtot = 4.2(6) · 10−4. The new finding helps to resolve the tension between recent data published in the literature.
Nuclear clustering over the nuclear chart from a covariant EDF approach
Authors: Ebran Jean-Paul , Heitz Louis , Khan Elias , Lasseri Raphaël-David , Mercier Florian , Nikšić Tamara , Vretenar Dario , Yüksel Esra , Zhao Jie
Published: October 2024

Nuclear clustering has been studied with covariant Energy Density Functional approaches for more than a decade. It recently allowed to bridge microscopically the description of cluster states in light nuclei with the one of cluster and alpha decays in heavy ones. The proper use of theoretical tools, such as the density and the nucleonic localization function, allows to shed light on the mechanisms of formation and identification of clusters in nuclei. Finally, a global analysis of nuclear clustering is discussed, in order to identify control parameters for a nuclear cluster phase.
Clusterization in nuclear states at the edge of stability
Authors: Linares Fernández José Pablo , Michel Nicolas , Płoszajczak Marek
Published: October 2024

The open quantum system eigenstate in the vicinity of low-energy decay channel may mimic its features, in particular the characteristic clustering properties of the decay channel. This generic mechanism of clusterization, the so-called mimicry mechanism of clusterization, is discussed here on example of the ground state wave function of 8Be. At higher excitation energies, when the density of states and reaction channels is high, the quantal aspects in the clusterization process disappear and the statistical mechanism of clusterization which is rooted in the Central Limit Theorem, begin to dominate.
Alpha structure of 16O at high excitation energies by 3He+13C nuclear reactions
Authors: Redigolo Luigi , Lombardo Ivano , Dell’Aquila Daniele , Vigilante Mariano , Ayketin Mualla , Baldesi Lucia , Barlini Sandro , Camaiani Alberto , Casini Giovanni , Ciampi Caterina , Fabris Daniela , Cicerchia Magda , Frosin Catalin , Gramegna Fabiana , Marchi Tommaso , Ordine Antonio , Ottanelli Pietro , Pasquali Gabriele , Piantelli Silvia , Russo Marco , Stefanini Andrea , Valdrè Simone , Verde Giuseppe
Published: October 2024

This work investigates high energy states in the self-conjugate 16O nucleus, through the analysis of 13C(3He,α)12C reactions in the 1.4 2.2 MeV bombarding energy range. The cross-section of the decay channel in which an α particle is emitted in coincidence with a 12C residual nucleus in the Hoyle state, leading to four α particles in the final channel, has been measured thanks to a low-threshold and high-resolution array. The occurrence of two low-spin resonant states is highlighted by the analysis of angular distributions, with Jπ = 2+ and 3−, at respective energies of ≃ 24.1 and 24.5 MeV. In this energy window, the observed branching ratios for the transition involving the emission of the Hoyle state appear to be way larger than calculations based on the barrier penetration alone, pointing out to the possible occurrence of largely clustered high-energy states in 16O.
Exploring the Trojan Horse Method for Nuclear Fusion Data
Authors: Stajkowski Dominik , Kokalova Tzany , Wheldon Carl , Bishop Jack
Published: October 2024

The Trojan Horse Method (THM) is an indirect technique which extracts a two-body cross-section of interest from a related three-body reaction. The need for the application of the THM for obtaining fusion data is outlined, with a focus on the 93Nb(n, γ)94Nb cross-section. The basic features of THM are explained, with a particular focus on the quasi-free (QF) kinematics and the resulting energy relations, which provide a way to link the spectator momentum to the interaction energy of interest. The QF kinematics are then applied to the 93Nb(d, pγ)94Nb reaction, with some experimental considerations being outlined. A follow-up measurement to validate the THM result using the High-Flux Accelerator Driven Neutron Facility (HF-ADNeF) is proposed.
Clustering in 13C
Authors: Palada Luka , Soić Neven , Acosta Louis , Bailey Sam , Dell’Aquila Daniele , Duenas Jose Antonio , Fernandez-Garcia Juan Pablo , Figuera Pierpaolo , Fioretto Enrico , Fisichella Maria , Grassi Laura , Kirsebom Oliver , Kokalova Wheldon Tzany , Lattuada Marcello , Marquinez-Duran Gloria , Martel Ismael , Mijatović Tea , Prepolec Lovro , Skukan Natko , Smith Robin , Szilner Suzana , Tokić Vedrana , Uroić Milivoj , Vukman Nikola , Walshe Joe , Wheldon Carl
Published: October 2024

Measurement was conducted at the INFN-LNL, employing a Tandem accelerator to achieve a 95 MeV 14N beam focused on 10B target (201 µg/cm²) with the aim to explore the cluster structures of light carbon isotopes. The main focus of this report will be on the 13C nucleus. Data were collected with a six-telescope detection system that allowed for the observation of many-body exit channels. Here are presented some results of the data analysis for the excited states of 13C from reactions with two and three products in the exit channel. In the 10B(14N,11C)13C reaction, well-defined peaks were identified at 2.0, 3.7, 5.7, 7.4, 9.4, 11.7, 13.9, and 15.9 MeV. The states from ground state to 5.7 MeV are well understood and are used to correct the spectrum, while more states can contribute to the states at higher excitations and further investigation is needed. In the 10B(14N,11C9Be)4He channel, states were identified at 13.1, 13.9, 15.6, and 18.5 MeV. The experimental results show consistency with the previously published data, supporting theoretical models of clustering and molecular-like structures in 13C. Further analysis of other reaction channels and states will be presented in future publications, aiming to enhance our understanding of multi-center clustering in carbon isotopes.
Investigating nuclei produced in 9Li +11B reaction
Authors: Sigmund Margareta , Soić Neven , Alcorta Moreno Martin , Bishop Jack , Brooks Alexander D. , Davinson Thomas , Dell’Aquila Daniele , Di Pietro Alessia , Falezza Fillippo , Freer Martin , Gašparić Igor , Jelavić Malenica Deša , Kokalova Wheldon Tzany , La Cognata Marco , Lennarz Annika , Lihtar Ivana , Martel Bravo Ismael , Milin Matko , Müller Gatermann Claus , Parker Cody , Vukman Nikola
Published: October 2024

In this contribution, a preliminary analysis of the first part of the experiment S2012 conducted at the ISAC-II facility of Canada’s particle accelerator center TRIUMF in Vancouver will be presented. The experiment aims to study highly clustered structures of nuclei created in multi-nucleon transfer reactions of 9Li radioactive beam on natural boron target (11B and 10B). The main objective of the experiment is to study exotic structures created in neutron-rich 16C nucleus in the range of higher excitation energies. The analysis presented here probes the existence of exotic cluster configurations and the quality of detected results using the invariant mass techniques.
Overload cascading failure detection algorithm for multi-layer supply chain network considering delay probability factor
Authors: Lu Bingfang , Li Ranran
Published: October 2024

At present, the supply chain is multi-layered and complicated, and its failure detection is based solely on the characteristic threshold, which does not lack the ability to describe the complex supply chain. An overload cascading failure detection algorithm for multi-layer supply chain network considering delay probability is proposed. Based on the multi-layer supply chain network including raw material suppliers, manufacturers, distributors and retailers, the overload cascading failure model of the multi-layer supply chain network is constructed through networking, and the overload cascading failure process of the multi-layer supply chain network is described through three aspects: initial load, node capacity and overload node load distribution. By monitoring and analyzing the status update messages of each node in the supply chain network, and considering the delay probability factor, the node and path that may lead to cascading failure are identified by predicting the delay probability of the next message through the historical message delay probability, and the overload cascading failure detection of the multi-layer supply chain network is realized. The experimental results show that the algorithm can effectively detect the failure of each overloaded enterprise node in the multi-layer supply chain network, which is helpful to enhance the early warning and response ability of the cascade failure of the supply chain network. The algorithm can realize the failure detection of supply chain network under different attack conditions and initial failure ratio of nodes, and measure the anti-risk ability of supply chain network. Under deliberate attack and when the initial attack node is a supplier network layer node, it has a greater impact on the multi-layer supply chain network.
The reconstruction of evolutionary dynamics of processed pseudogenes indicates deep silencing of “retrobiome” in naked mole rat
Authors: Kogan Valeria , Molodtsov Ivan , Fleyshman Daria I. , Leontieva Olga V. , Koman Igor E. , Gudkov Andrei V.
Published: October 2024

Approximately half of mammalian genomes are occupied by retrotransposons, highly repetitive interspersed genetic elements expanded through the mechanism of reverse transcription. The evolution of this “retrobiome” involved a series of explosive amplifications, presumably associated with high mutation rates, interspersed with periods of silencing. A by-product of retrotransposon activity is the formation of processed pseudogenes (PPGs)—intron-less, promoter-less DNA copies of messenger RNA (mRNA). We examined the proportion of PPGs with varying degrees of deviation from their ancestor mRNAs as an indicator of the intensity of retrotranspositions at different times in the past. Our analysis revealed a high proportion of “young’’ (recently acquired) PPGs in the DNA of mice and rats, indicating significant retrobiome activity during the recent evolution of these species. The ongoing process of new PPG entries in mouse germ line DNA was confirmed by identifying diversity in PPG content within the single strain of mice, C57BL/6. In contrast, the highly abundant PPGs of the naked mole rat (NMR) exhibited substantial deviation from their mRNAs, with a near-complete lack of PPGs without mutations, indicative of the silencing of the retrobiome in the most recent evolutionary past, preceded by a period of high activity. This distinctive feature of the NMR genome was confirmed through the analysis of a broad range of mammalian species. The peculiar evolutionary dynamics of PPGs in the NMR, an organism with exceptional longevity and resistance to cancer, may reflect the role played by the retrobiome in aging and cancer.
Aligning the smiles of dating dyads causally increases attraction
Authors: Arias-Sarah Pablo , Bedoya Daniel , Daube Christoph , Aucouturier Jean-Julien , Hall Lars , Johansson Petter
Published: October 2024

Social interaction research is lacking an experimental paradigm enabling researchers to make causal inferences in free social interactions. For instance, the expressive signals that causally modulate the emergence of romantic attraction during interactions remain unknown. To disentangle causality in the wealth of covarying factors that govern social interactions, we developed an open-source video-conference platform enabling researchers to covertly manipulate the social signals produced by participants during interactions. Using this platform, we performed a speed-dating experiment where we aligned or misaligned the facial smiles of participants in real time with face transformation algorithms. Even though participants remained totally unaware that their faces were being manipulated, aligning their smiles causally enhanced the romantic attraction they felt toward each other, compared to unaligned scenarios. Manipulations also influenced how participants synchronized and vocally reacted to each other. This paradigm causally manipulates the emergence of romantic attraction in free social interactions. Moreover, our methodology opens the possibility to perform causal inferences during free social interactions.
High functional vulnerability across the world’s deep-sea hydrothermal vent communities
Authors: Alfaro-Lucas Joan M. , Chapman Abbie S. A. , Tunnicliffe Verena , Bates Amanda E.
Published: October 2024

At the nearly pristine hydrothermal vents of the deep sea, highly endemic animals depend upon bacteria nourished by hydrothermal fluids that emerge as outflows from the seafloor. These animals are remarkable in tolerating extreme conditions, including high heat, toxic reduced sulfide, and low oxygen. Here, we test whether the extreme vent environment has selected for functionally similar species across the world’s deep ocean, despite well-established global geographic patterns of high phylogenetic distinctness. High functional redundancy in species pools within regions suggests that the extreme environments select for species with specific traits. Yet, some regions emerge as functional hotspots where species pools with distinct functional trait compositions may represent geological idiosyncrasies of the habitats. Moreover, many species are functionally unique, an outcome of low species richness in a system where the species pool is small at all scales. Given the high proportion of functionally unique species, simulated species extinctions indicate that species losses would rapidly translate to the elimination of functionally irreplaceable species and could tip vent systems to functional collapse. Ocean changes and human-induced threats are expected to significantly impact many vent species as human activities expand in the remote deep sea. The opportunity exists now to take precautionary actions to limit the rates of extinction now ubiquitous in more accessible areas of Earth.
Protein language models learn evolutionary statistics of interacting sequence motifs
Authors: Zhang Zhidian , Wayment-Steele Hannah K. , Brixi Garyk , Wang Haobo , Kern Dorothee , Ovchinnikov Sergey
Published: October 2024

Protein language models (pLMs) have emerged as potent tools for predicting and designing protein structure and function, and the degree to which these models fundamentally understand the inherent biophysics of protein structure stands as an open question. Motivated by a finding that pLM-based structure predictors erroneously predict nonphysical structures for protein isoforms, we investigated the nature of sequence context needed for contact predictions in the pLM Evolutionary Scale Modeling (ESM-2). We demonstrate by use of a “categorical Jacobian” calculation that ESM-2 stores statistics of coevolving residues, analogously to simpler modeling approaches like Markov Random Fields and Multivariate Gaussian models. We further investigated how ESM-2 “stores” information needed to predict contacts by comparing sequence masking strategies, and found that providing local windows of sequence information allowed ESM-2 to best recover predicted contacts. This suggests that pLMs predict contacts by storing motifs of pairwise contacts. Our investigation highlights the limitations of current pLMs and underscores the importance of understanding the underlying mechanisms of these models.
Tuning porosity of macroporous hydrogels enables rapid rates of stress relaxation and promotes cell expansion and migration
Authors: Nerger Bryan A. , Kashyap Kirti , Deveney Brendan T. , Lou Junzhe , Hanan Blake F. , Liu Qi , Khalil Andrew , Lungjangwa Tenzin , Cheriyan Maria , Gupta Anupam , Jaenisch Rudolf , Weitz David A. , Mahadevan L. , Mooney David J.
Published: October 2024

Extracellular matrix (ECM) viscoelasticity broadly regulates cell behavior. While hydrogels can approximate the viscoelasticity of native ECM, it remains challenging to recapitulate the rapid stress relaxation observed in many tissues without limiting the mechanical stability of the hydrogel. Here, we develop macroporous alginate hydrogels that have an order of magnitude increase in the rate of stress relaxation as compared to bulk hydrogels. The increased rate of stress relaxation occurs across a wide range of polymer molecular weights (MWs), which enables the use of high MW polymer for improved mechanical stability of the hydrogel. The rate of stress relaxation in macroporous hydrogels depends on the volume fraction of pores and the concentration of bovine serum albumin, which is added to the hydrogels to stabilize the macroporous structure during gelation. Relative to cell spheroids encapsulated in bulk hydrogels, spheroids in macroporous hydrogels have a significantly larger area and smaller circularity because of increased cell migration. A computational model provides a framework for the relationship between the macroporous architecture and morphogenesis of encapsulated spheroids that is consistent with experimental observations. Taken together, these findings elucidate the relationship between macroporous hydrogel architecture and stress relaxation and help to inform the design of macroporous hydrogels for materials-based cell therapies.
When TCM debate meets Covid-19 discourse
Authors: Pan Yun , Peng Altman Yuzhu
Published: October 2024

The Covid-19 pandemic has pushed medical discourse to the forefront of everyday communication, but limited scholarly attention has been given to its intersection with social-mediated language use in the Chinese context. From a corpus-pragmatic view, we examined textual data collected from Zhihu, the most popular Chinese community question-answering site. Our analysis focused on the linguistic mechanism of evidential expression in social-mediated debates on Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Within the realm of medical scientific discussion, we identified a prevailing epistemic stance of doubt and uncertainty towards the efficacy of TCM, emphasising its socio-political significance. We also demonstrated how the ‘source of knowledge’ value and the ‘speaker commitment’ value of evidentiality interact at the semantic-pragmatic interface. Our findings shed light on a promising research trajectory for sociolinguistic intervention in the formal, descriptive line of evidentiality research, thus, advancing existing corpus pragmatics literature on evidentiality and epistemics in social-mediated communication.