bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental demonstration of low-complexity trigonometric-memory-polynomial decision-feedback equalizer for nonlinear compensation in IM/DD optical systems
Authors: Liu Xing , Liu Yun , Hu Chengju , Zhao Jian
Published: January 2024

We propose a simple but high-performance trigonometric-memory-polynomial decision-feedback equalizer (TMP-DFE) to cope with the nonlinear distortions in intensity-modulation direct-detection (IM/DD) systems. The proposed method employs sine and cosine operations of received samples, which can be implemented by the efficient CORDIC algorithm using only additions and shifts, to fit odd- and even-order nonlinearities with the effect of different nonlinear orders adjusted by the nonlinear factor. We further propose TMP improved-weighted DFE (TMP-IWDFE) to reduce the error propagation probability of decision feedback. We experimentally evaluate the performance of the proposed schemes in a C-band Erbium-doped-fiber-amplifier-free 56-80Gbit/s four-level pulse-amplitude-modulation (PAM-4) IM/DD system over 30-50 km standard single-mode fiber (SSMF) transmission. The results show that TMP-DFE exhibits better bit error rate performance than Volterra decision-feedback equalizer (V-DFE), diagonally-pruned V-DFE (DP-V-DFE), and diagonally-pruned absolute-term V-DFE (DPAT-V-DFE) while only requiring real multiplications 20.04%, 43.25%, and 74.12% of these conventional schemes. TMP-IWDFE further improves the performance and is better than V-IWDFE, DP-V-IWDFE, and DPAT-V-IWDFE in terms of both performance and complexity. Therefore, the proposed schemes have great potential for high-performance and low-cost IM/DD optical transmission systems.
Measured optical losses of Sc doped AlN waveguides
Authors: Friedman B. , Barth S. , Schreiber T. , Bartzsch H. , Bain J. , Piazza G.
Published: January 2024

Although Sc doped AlN (ScAlN) has been used extensively in micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) devices and more recently in optical devices, there have not been thorough studies of its intrinsic optical losses. Here we explore the optical losses of the Sc0.30Al0.70N waveguide system by observing racetrack resonator waveguide quality factors. Using a partial physical etch, we fabricate waveguides and extract propagation losses as low as 1.6 ± 0.3 dB/cm at wavelengths around 1550 nm, mostly dominated by intrinsic material absorption from the Sc0.30Al0.70N thin film layer. The highest quality factor of the resonators was greater than 87,000. The propagation loss value is lower than any value previously published and shows that this material can be broadly used in optical modulators without significant loss.
Thin film structural color is widespread in slime molds (Myxomycetes, Amoebozoa)
Authors: Bauernfeind Viola , Ronikier Anna , Ronikier Michał , Kozlowski Gregor , Steiner Ullrich , Wilts Bodo D.
Published: January 2024

Brilliant colors in nature arise from the interference of light with periodic nanostructures resulting in structural color. While such biological photonic structures have long attracted interest in insects and plants, they are little known in other groups of organisms. Unexpected in the kingdom of Amoebozoa, which assembles unicellular organisms, structural colors were observed in myxomycetes, an evolutionary group of amoebae forming macroscopic, fungal-like structures. Previous work related the sparkling appearance of Diachea leucopodia to thin film interference. Using optical and ultrastructural characterization, we here investigated the occurrence of structural color across 22 species representing two major evolutionary clades of myxomycetes including 14 genera. All investigated species showed thin film interference at the peridium, producing colors with hues distributed throughout the visible range that were altered by pigmentary absorption. A white reflective layer of densely packed calcium-rich shells is observed in a compound peridium in Metatrichia vesparium, whose formation and function are still unknown. These results raise interesting questions on the biological relevance of thin film structural colors in myxomycetes, suggesting they may be a by-product of their reproductive cycle.
Strategies for phase matching control in a multidimensional Floquet state spectroscopy
Authors: Kaufman Emily , Kohler Daniel D. , Sunden Kyle F. , Wright John C.
Published: January 2024

Floquet state spectroscopy is an optical analogue of multiple quantum coherence nuclear magnetic resonance (MQC-NMR). Tunable ultrafast excitation pulses resonantly excite multiple states in a sample to form the Floquet state. The Floquet state emits multiple coherent beams at frequencies and in directions that conserve energy and momenta. The different output beams differ in the time ordering and coherences created by the excitation beams. They correspond to the different methodologies in the NMR family. Isolating a specific beam and monitoring the output intensity as a function of excitation frequencies creates multidimensional spectra containing cross-peaks between coupled states. The frequency range of the multidimensional spectra is limited by phase matching constraints. This paper presents a new, to the best of our knowledge, active phase matching strategy that increases the versatility of multidimensional Floquet state spectroscopy through both longer sample path lengths and larger spectral ranges.
Thin-film lithium niobate electro-optic isolator fabricated by photolithography assisted chemo-mechanical etching
Authors: Gao Lang , Liang Youting , Song Lvbin , Yin Difeng , Qi Jia , Chen Jinming , Liu Zhaoxiang , Yu Jianping , Liu Jian , Zhang Haisu , Fang Zhiwei , Qi Hongxin , Cheng Ya
Published: January 2024

We report an electro-optic isolator fabricated on thin-film lithium niobate by photolithography-assisted chemo-mechanical etching that shows an isolation of 39.50 dB and an overall fiber-to-fiber loss of 2.6 dB.
Mirrored transformation optics
Authors: Liao Junke , Zhao Pengfei , Zhang Zhibing , Xiao Wen , Chen Huanyang
Published: January 2024

A mirrored transformation optics (MTO) approach is presented to overcome the material mismatch in transformation optics. It makes good use of the reflection behavior and introduces a mirrored medium to offset the phase discontinuities. Using this approach, a high-performance planar focusing lens of transmission type is designed, which has a larger concentration ratio than the other focusing lens obtained by the generalized Snell's law. The MTO will not change any functionality of the original lens and has promising potential applications in imaging and light energy harvesting.
Tight focusing through scattering media via a Bessel-basis transmission matrix
Authors: Zeng Jiayu , Zhao Wenjing , Zhai Aiping , Ji Weibang , Wang Dong
Published: January 2024

The transmission matrix (TM) is a powerful tool for focusing light through scattering media. Here, we demonstrate a Bessel-basis TM that enables tight focusing through the scattering media and reduces the full width at half maximum of the focus by 23% on average, as compared to the normally used Hadamard-basis TM. To measure the Bessel-basis TM, we establish a common-path inter-mode interferometer (IMI), which can fully utilize the pixels of the spatial light modulator, leading to an enhancement in the peak-to-background intensity ratio (PBR) of the focus. Experimental results suggest that the Bessel-basis TM can achieve a tighter focus behind the scattering media, and the PBR of the focus obtained by the IMI is around 14.3% higher than that achieved using the normal peripheral reference interferometry.
An introduction to digital determinants of health
Authors: Chidambaram Swathikan , Jain Bhav , Jain Urvish , Mwavu Rogers , Baru Rama , Thomas Beena , Greaves Felix , Jayakumar Shruti , Jain Pankaj , Rojo Marina , Battaglino Marina Ridao , Meara John G. , Sounderajah Viknesh , Celi Leo Anthony , Darzi Ara
Published: January 2024

In recent years, technology has been increasingly incorporated within healthcare for the provision of safe and efficient delivery of services. Although this can be attributed to the benefits that can be harnessed, digital technology has the potential to exacerbate and reinforce preexisting health disparities. Previous work has highlighted how sociodemographic, economic, and political factors affect individuals’ interactions with digital health systems and are termed social determinants of health [SDOH]. But, there is a paucity of literature addressing how the intrinsic design, implementation, and use of technology interact with SDOH to influence health outcomes. Such interactions are termed digital determinants of health [DDOH]. This paper will, for the first time, propose a definition of DDOH and provide a conceptual model characterizing its influence on healthcare outcomes. Specifically, DDOH is implicit in the design of artificial intelligence systems, mobile phone applications, telemedicine, digital health literacy [DHL], and other forms of digital technology. A better appreciation of DDOH by the various stakeholders at the individual and societal levels can be channeled towards policies that are more digitally inclusive. In tandem with ongoing work to minimize the digital divide caused by existing SDOH, further work is necessary to recognize digital determinants as an important and distinct entity.
Discontinuation of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate from initial ART regimens because of renal adverse events: An analysis of data from four multi-country clinical trials
Authors: Ngongondo McNeil , Ritz Justin , Hughes Michael D. , Matoga Mitch , Hosseinipour Mina C. ,   on behalf of the AIDS Clinical Trials Group A5208, A5221, A5175 and A5274 Study Teams
Published: January 2024

Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF), a potent and commonly used antiretroviral drug, is associated with renal tubular dysfunction and renal adverse events. We evaluated the frequency of, time to, and baseline risk factors for discontinuing TDF from initial antiretroviral therapy (ART) regimens because of renal adverse events from presumed tenofovir renal toxicity. We conducted an observational cohort study as a secondary analysis of data from four clinical trials conducted mainly in low- and middle-income countries. We included ART naïve participants living with HIV who started TDF-containing ART regimens in the trials. Participants had to have estimated creatinine clearance (eCrCl) equal to or greater than 60ml/min before starting ART. The primary outcome was the first instance of discontinuing TDF because of renal adverse events attributed to tenofovir renal toxicity during the first 48 weeks after starting ART. We evaluated the cumulative incidence of discontinuing TDF and associated risk factors using Fine and Gray competing risk regression models with a backward elimination variable selection strategy. There were 2802 ART-naïve participants who started TDF-containing ART from the four clinical trials were included in the analysis. Fifty-eight percent were female, the median age was 34 years, and 87% had CD4 cell counts less than 200 cells/μl. Sixty-four participants (2.4%, 95% CI 1.7%-2.8%) discontinued TDF due to renal adverse events. Among the 64 participants, the median time to discontinue TDF was 9.4 weeks (IQR: 3.4–20.7 weeks). From multivariable Fine and Gray regression models, risk factors for discontinuing TDF were older age, CD4 cell count <200 cells/μl, presence and severity of anemia, and eCrCl <90 ml/min. The risk of discontinuing TDF because of renal adverse events was low in participants initiating TDF-containing ART with advanced HIV and normal renal function, attesting to the tolerability of TDF in ART in low- and middle-income countries.
Virulome analysis of Escherichia coli ST117 from bovine sources identifies similarities and differences with strains isolated from other food animals
Authors: Haley Bradd J. , Salaheen Serajus , Kim Seon Woo , Van Kessel Jo Ann
Published: January 2024

Escherichia coli ST117 is a pandemic extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli (ExPEC) causing significant morbidity globally. Poultry are a known reservoir of this pathogen, but the characteristics of ST117 strains from other animal sources have not been adequately investigated. Here we characterize the genomes of 36 ST117 strains recovered primarily from preweaned dairy calves, but also from older postweaned calves and lactating cows, in the context of other bovine-associated strains and strains from poultry, swine, and humans. Results of this study demonstrate that bovine-associated ST117 genomes encode virulence factors (VFs) known to be involved in extraintestinal infections, but also occasionally encode the Shiga toxin, a virulence factor (VF) involved in severe gastrointestinal infections and more frequently identified in E. coli from ruminants than other animals. Bovine-associated ST117 genomes were also more likely to encode afa-VIII (adhesins), pap (P-fimbriae), cdt (cytolethal distending toxin), and stx (Shiga toxins) than were poultry and swine-associated genomes. All of the ST117 genomes were grouped into seven virulence clusters, with bovine-associated genomes grouping into Clusters 1, 2, 4, 5, but not 3, 6, or 7. Major differences in the presence of virulence factors between clusters were observed as well. Antimicrobial resistance genes were detected in 112 of 122 (91%) bovine-associated genomes, with 103 of these being multidrug-resistant (MDR). Inclusion of genomes that differed from ST117 by one multi-locus sequence type (MLST) allele identified 31 STs, four of these among the bovine-associated genomes. These non-ST117 genomes clustered with the ST117 genomes suggesting that they may cause similar disease as ST117. Results of this study identify cattle as a reservoir of ST117 strains, some of which are highly similar to those isolated from other food animals and some of which have unique bovine-specific characteristics.
Carbon stock changes of drained nutrient-rich organic forest soils in Latvia
Authors:   Latvian State Forest Research Institute ‘Silava’ (LSFRI Silava), Rigas str. 111, Salaspils, LV-2169, Latvia, Lazdiņš Andis , Lupiķis Ainārs , Polmanis Kaspars , Bārdule Arta , Butlers Aldis , Kalēja Santa
Published: January 2024

Impact of drainage of organic soils in forest land on soil carbon (C) stock changes is of high interest not only to accurately estimate soil C stock changes, but also to provide scientifically based recommendations for forest land management in context of climate change mitigation. To improve knowledge about long-term impact of drainage on nutrient-rich organic soils in hemiboreal forests in Latvia, 50 research sites representing drained conditions (Oxalidosa turf. mel. (Kp) and Myrtillosa turf. mel. (Ks) forest site types) and undrained conditions as control areas (Caricoso-phragmitosa, Dryopterioso-caricosa and Filipendulosa forest site types) were selected. Soil C stock changes after drainage was evaluated by comparing current C stock in drained organic soils to theoretical C stock before drainage considering impact of soil subsidence. During the 53-years period after drainage, the peat subsidence was higher in nutrient-rich Kp forest site type compared to moderate nutrient-rich Ks forest site type (peat subsided by 37.0 ± 4.8 and 23.3 ± 4.8 cm, respectively). In nutrient-rich Kp forest site type, soil C stock decreased by 4.98 ± 1.58 Mg C ha–1 yr–1 after drainage, while no statistically significant changes in soil C stock (0.19 ± 1.31 Mg C ha–1 yr–1) were observed in moderate nutrient-rich soils in Ks forest site type. Thus, in Ks forest site type, the main driver of the peat subsidence was the physical compaction, while in Kp forest site type contribution of organic matter decomposition and consequent soil C losses to subsidence of the peat was significant.
Patologias Construtivas em Hotéis: Estudo de Caso
Authors: Gomes Elen Stephane Fernandes , Martins Taline Carvalho , Cruz Júnior Aleones José da , Da Cruz Daniel Magalhães
Published: January 2024

No ramo hoteleiro, em que a estética construtiva é um diferencial para o êxito do empreendimento, frequentemente a engenharia diagnóstica é acionada para tratar manifestações patológicas. Assim o estudo de metodologia de inspeção e discussão das manifestações patológicas é fundamental para uma adequada implementação de ações corretivas, de forma que o desempenho mínimo da edificação e dos seus sistemas sejam atingidos, não comprometendo assim a vida útil da edificação, a segurança e o conforto dos usuários. O presente trabalho propôs um estudo de caso em dois edifícios hoteleiros da cidade de Rio Quente (Goiás) levantando as manifestações ocorridas na sua vida útil, aplicando conceitos da engenharia diagnóstica para propor soluções, ou seja, terapias para cada uma das manifestações identificadas. A metodologia consistiu inicialmente em uma abordagem de revisão bibliográfica, para embasar as terapias propostas. Foi realizado uma coleta de dados através de laudos técnicos, visitas in loco e registros fotográfico. Foi utilizado um Mapa de Acompanhamento para sintetizar as informações levantadas. Como resultados, apresentou-se dez manifestações e proposta de terapia para cada uma delas. O trabalhou apontou que em 80% dos casos a origem estava associada a falhas na fase de execução do edifício, em 70% dos casos a causa foi a umidade e as manifestações patológicas mais frequentes, totalizando 30% dos casos, foram as trincas, fissuras e rachaduras.
Técnicas de Matriz Resposta com Aproximações de Baixa Ordem Aplicadas a Problemas de Transporte de Fótons
Authors: Rivas Ortiz Iram Barbaro , Marrero Iglesias Susana , Souza Oliveira Francisco Bruno , Ambrósio Paulo Eduardo , Sanchez Dominguez Dany
Published: January 2024

Problemas relacionados à transferência radiativa e ao transporte de fótons são comumente encontrados em diversas disciplinas científicas e campos da engenharia, abrangendo desde a tomografia computadorizada e radioterapia até a astrofísica, testes não destrutivos de materiais e proteção radiológica, entre outras áreas. Ainda enfrentamos desafios nesse domínio, tais como a necessidade de dados nucleares mais precisos e abrangentes, a inclusão de geometrias realistas e complexas, e o desenvolvimento de algoritmos eficientes para resolver a equação de transporte de fótons como modelo matemático. Neste estudo, são introduzidas abordagens que empregam técnicas de matriz resposta com aproximações de baixa ordem para lidar com problemas relacionados ao transporte de fótons. Especificamente, são apresentados os métodos de Matriz Resposta - Constante Nodal (RM-CN) e Matriz Resposta - Nodal Linear Pleno (RM-FLN), considerando a função de fase isotrópica em geometria bidimensional Cartesiana, atmosfera cinza e formulação de ordenadas discretas (SN) da equação de transporte de fótons. Avaliamos o desempenho desses métodos em termos de precisão ao resolver um problema modelo. Ambos os métodos de matriz de resposta produzem resultados altamente precisos mesmo em grades de discretização espacial mais amplas, sendo que os resultados mais promissores foram obtidos com o método RM-FLN. No entanto, é importante observar que o custo computacional é mais elevado em comparação com o método RM-CN para a mesma grade de discretização espacial. Finalmente, a formulação de ordenadas discretas efetivamente modela os efeitos de onda gerados entre as regiões absorventes do problema, e os efeitos de raios são mitigados na medida que aumenta a ordem da quadratura angular.
Formação continuada de professores de matemática para um ensino decolonizado: um ensaio a partir da região norte brasileira
Authors: Silva Gildemberg da Cunha , De Carvalho Lizete Maria Orquiza
Published: January 2024

Em um país de dimensões continentais, problemas regionais de natureza complexa necessitam de soluções próprias e genuínas. Nesse contexto, o presente ensaio teve como objetivo de examinar a complexidade da formação continuada de professores de matemática, considerando possibilidades epistêmicas articuladas com um ensino decolonizado. Mantém-se como referência um pensar autônomo, democrático e coletivo que, a partir das comunidades escolares, estende-se para além da própria comunidade escolar. Debruça-se, pois, sobre uma epistemologia que versa sobre a autonomia dos professores em sua distinta realidade local globalizada, seja de modo dissonante ou harmônico, para um despertar das múltiplas plataformas da sociedade. Este trabalho, assume contornos de revisão da literatura, para isso adotou-se como metodologia a pesquisa bibliográfica, ainda que em formato de ensaio. Foram selecionados livros e artigos do campo da Educação, Educação Matemática e Sociologia, como também da Legislação, para enquadramento temático. Os resultados sinalizam para urgente e necessária revisão na formação continuada do professor que ensina matemática para os desafios contemporâneo que demanda desta geração, e das futuras, um olhar matemático plural, decolonizado, sobre a vida e dos problemas complexos local e global.
A Computational Tool for Geometric Characterization of Pores and Fractures in Microtomography Rock Images
Authors: Bomfim Letı́cia da Silva , Avansi Guilherme Daniel , Vidal Alexandre Campane , Pedrini Helio
Published: January 2024

Pores and fractures are important structures for the study and characterization of fluid flow inside rocks. It is through them that there can be the propagation and conduction of fluids and chemical substances inside the reservoirs, since the connections between these spaces provide the existence of flow. To understand the behavior of these structures, we have developed a computational tool that, through the use of high resolution images derived from computed microtomography, aims to detect and characterize the geometry of pores and faults with the objective of being an environment that allows the detailed understanding of these structures. For this task, image processing techniques were applied to identify the structure of the contours, obtained through data segmentation, and to evaluate their geometric parameters in conjunction with the algorithms implemented in this work. With this, we seek to provide a tool capable of assisting in the characterization of reservoirs and fluid analysis, and to reduce the uncertainties found in manual work through a computational approach, prioritizing the preservation of important samples collected in the field.
Burned area mapping in Different Data Products for the Southwest of the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Dutra Débora Joana , Fearnside Philip Martin , Yanai Aurora Miho , Graça Paulo Maurício Lima de Alencastro , Dalagnol Ricardo , Pessôa Ana Carolina Moreira , Cabral Beatriz Figueiredo , Burton Chantelle , Jones Christopher , Betts Richard , Ferro Poliana Domingos , Braga Daniel Alves , Aragão Luiz Eduardo Oliveira e Cruz de , Anderson Liana Oighenstein
Published: January 2024

Fires affect the Amazon rainforest and cause various socio-environmental problems. Analyses of forest fire dynamics supporting actions to combat and prevent forest fires. However, many studies have reported discrepancies in the quantification of fire, especially in the tropics. We evaluated four operational products for estimating burned areas (MAPBIOMAS, MCD64A1, GABAM, and GWIS) in a part of the southwestern Brazilian Amazon. We used the year 2019 as a reference to assess the relative performance of each product through stratification by forest and non-forest areas. Statistical (Kolmogorov–Smirnov test) and geospatial analyses were performed using fuzzy similarity analysis and mapping of burned areas for forest and non-forest classes. The four products showed a divergence of up to 90.6% in the total area burned. MAPBIOMAS was the product with the largest area burned (3379 km²), and MCD64A1 detected the smallest area (325 km²). MAPBIOMAS and GABAM generally overestimates burn scars in forest areas compared to MCD64A1 and GWIS. Factors that influence the mapping of burned areas include cloud shadow, the spatial resolution of sensors, and external noises (drought and decomposition of bamboo forests). We highlight the importance of field validation when mapping imagery to differentiate the truly burned areas from targets with similar spectral behavior.
Classification of Potential Wetlands using the Random Forest in Google Earth Engine in Geomorphological Units - Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
Authors: Cunha Christhian Santana , Guasselli Laurindo Antonio , Belloli Tássia Fraga , Korb Carina Cristiane
Published: January 2024

Wetlands are important and valuable ecosystems in the landscape of the extreme south of Brazil. However, they are among the ecosystems threatened by human pressures and climate change. Monitoring and managing these environments is a challenge due to their high spatial and temporal dynamics. The use of remote sensing techniques, supervised classification, and machine learning algorithms offers a promising opportunity to map and monitor wetlands. The objective of this work is to develop a method to map Potential Wetlands (PW) from the integration of images from different satellites, sensor systems, spectral, topographic, climatological and hydrological features, made available on the Google Earth Engine (GEE) cloud user platform. Supervised classification was performed on the geomorphological units Coastal Plain (CP) and Central Depression (CD) considering two classes: Potential Wetlands, which encompasses all types of wetlands, and No Wetlands, for the remaining land use and occupation classes. The supervised pixel-by-pixel classification, individual for each geomorphological unit, allowed more accurate results consistent with previous, consolidated mapping. The PW were mapped with a global accuracy higher than 88% and consumer and producer accuracy higher than 81% in the Coastal Plain and Central Depression. These results allow us to affirm that the proposed methodology enabled the identification of 22% to 24% increase in potential wetlands in geomorphological regions, from spectral signatures, and pixel-by-pixel supervised classification of PW using different image collections and sensor systems.
Os desafios da inclusão de pessoas com deficiência na pós-graduação stricto sensu: uma revisão sistemática e uma pesquisa empírica sobre o tema
Authors: Santos Rafael Lucas da Silva , Martins Plínio Lacerda , Pauseiro Sergio Gustavo de Mattos Pauseiro
Published: January 2024

O esforço permanente de inclusão de grupos historicamente marginalizados constitui um primado de isonomia, que refirma o compromisso fundamental da República Federativa do Brasil na promoção da dignidade da pessoa humana. Compreendendo a relevância da temática e uma vez verificada a lacuna na produção acadêmica, o presente artigo surge com o objetivo de investigar a reserva de vagas para Pessoas com Deficiência em programas de pós-graduação stricto sensu ofertados por universidades públicas federais. Este estudo busca analisar, a partir de uma revisão sistemática da literatura e de pesquisa empírica, a realidade das instituições, no que concerne aos aspectos normativos do ingresso, permanência e egressos dos cursos de Mestrado e Doutorado ofertados no país.
Study On Axial Stretching Mechanical Property Of Plant Fiber Reinforced Cementitious Composites
Authors:   Lanzhou University of Technology, Wang Xinyuan
Published: January 2024

This paper aims to explore the tensile properties of plant fiber-reinforced cementitious composites (PFRCCs). An axial tensile numerical-simulation and test study of PFRCC panels with four thicknesses was performed to analyze their tensile properties, providing a relevant basis for the engineering application of PFRCC panels. The results show that the peak load of uniaxial tensile failure of PFRCC panels with thicknesses of 8 mm, 12 mm, 15 mm and 18 mm is 424.0 N, 664.8 N, 825.0 N and 986.4 N, respectively. The bearing capacity of the panels gradually increases with the increase of the thickness. The peak tensile strain is about 0.044%, 2.93 times that of the cement matrix and the tensile strength is about 2.73 MPa. It is proved that adding plant fiber can increase the toughness of the cement matrix and increasing PFRCC panel thickness can improve its tensile bearing capacity without affecting its tensile-strength. KEYWORDS: Composite materials, Cement matrix, Plant fiber, Axial tension.
Optimal Design of Truss Using a Hybrid Method Based on Particle Swarm Optimizer and Harris Hawk Algorithm
Authors:   University of Zanjan, Yassami Mohammad
Published: January 2024

This paper presents two hybrid optimization methods known as PSOHHO and DPSOHHO optimization algorithms. In the first method, using a number of formulae, the top populations are exchanged between the two algorithms and a new population is created and in the second method, we adopted the parallel optimization and optimized its performance. In this method, unlike other parallel methods, the population does not remain constant. With this ability, the strengths of an algorithm can be used to compensate for the weaknesses of the other algorithm. In these methods, no changes are made to the algorithms. The main goal is to use existing algorithms. These methods attain the optimal solution in the shortest time possible. Two algorithms of particleswarm optimization (PSO) and Harris Hawks's optimization (HHO) are used to present this method and two truss samples and CEC209 are considered to confirm the performance of this method. Based on the results, these methods have rapid convergence speed and acceptable results compared to other methods. KEYWORDS: Meta-heuristic algorithms, Hybrid algorithm, Optimization, Dynamic hybrid algorithm, Truss.
Ethnomedicine exploration of medicinal plants: Fumaria capreolata L. and Calendula suffruticosa Vahl in Numidia (north-eastern Algeria)
Authors: Sofiane Ismahene , Seridi Ratiba
Published: January 2024

Our ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants native to Numidia aimed to investigate traditional therapeutic and cosmetic uses reported by the local population, traditional practitioners, and herbalists of this region. An ethnobotanical survey was carried out using questionnaires on Calendula suffruticosa Vahl (shrub-like marigold) and Fumaria capreolata L. (climbing fumitory) in 2017-2018 in 5 cities of north-eastern Algeria. We studied the profile of 100 respondents, their knowledge of local plant names, therapeutic uses, the parts used, and the mode of use of each plant. The data collected show 62.0% of local people use these plants for several reasons, while 38% use it only for therapeutic purposes. The aerial part is the most usable for both species, especially the flower for marigold (82.0% of those who use it). According to the surveys conducted, it appears that the local communities in these cities make use of various medical properties of marigold: anti-inflammatory (37.0%), antibacterial (16.2%), against oedema (8.6%), anti-ulcer (6.1%), sedative, cholesterol-lowering (3.4%), antihypertensive, i.e. lowering blood pressure (2.6%). In contrast, the use of fumitory is rare, due to its toxicity in larger doses. In most cases, the method of administration of the remedies varies, e.g. as an infusion (72.1% of those who use fumitory), decoction (10.0%), compresses (10.8%), cream or ointment based on decoction (7.0%). This study shows the great importance of medicinal plants in the local traditional medicine of north-eastern Algeria.
COVID-19 KORKUSU, RUH SAĞLIĞI VE DİNİ BAŞA ÇIKMA ARASINDAKİ İLİŞKİ: RİSK GRUBUNDAKİ YAŞLILAR ÜZERİNE AMPİRİK BİR ARAŞTIRMA
Authors: HACIKELEŞOĞLU Hızır , VURAL Muhammet Enes , GEÇER Harun
Published: January 2024

Bu araştırma, salgın ile başa çıkma sürecinde dinin rolüne odaklanarak yaşlı bireylerden müteşekkil bir örneklem üzerinde Covid-19 korkusu, depresyon, anksiyete, stres ve dini başa çıkma arasındaki ilişkiyi ortaya çıkarmayı hedeflemektedir. Araştırmada temel değişkenler arasında meydana gelen korelasyonel ilişki, tarama metoduyla yapılan nicel bir araştırma deseninde irdelenmiştir. Diğer taraftan araştırma grubunun bazı sosyo- demografik özellikleri ile Covid-19 korkusu arasındaki farklılaşmalar, araştırmanın amaçları kapsamında ele alınmıştır. Doğu Karadeniz bölgesinde yaşayan, tesadüfi yöntemle seçilen 60 yaş üzeri 398 yaşlı birey ile gerçekleştirilen araştırmada ilgili değişkenler arasındaki farklılaşmalar tespit edilmiştir. Araştırmadan elde edilen bulgular, kronik hastalığa sahip olan ve Covid-19 sebebiyle yakınını kaybeden bireylerin Covid-19 korku düzeylerinin daha yüksek olduğunu göstermektedir. Araştırmada Covid-19 korkusu ile depresyon, anksiyete ve stres düzeyleri arasında; ayrıca Covid-19 korkusu ile olumsuz dini başa çıkma arasında anlamlı ilişki olduğu görülmektedir. Diğer taraftan depresyon, anksiyete ve stres düzeyleri ile olumsuz dini başa çıkma arasında anlamlı ilişki bulunduğu tespit edilmiştir. Buradan hareketle olumsuz ruh sağlığı göstergelerinin daha çok olumsuz dini başa çıkma stilleri ile ilişkili olduğu ifade edilebilir.
BİST SÜRDÜRÜLEBİLİRLİK 25 ENDEKSİNDE YER ALAN OTOMOTİV ŞİRKETLERİNİN ÇEVRESEL SÜRDÜRÜLEBİLİRLİK PERFORMANSLARININ İÇERİK ANALİZİ İLE DEĞERLENDİRİLMESİ
Authors: KAYACAN Ayfer , ATAMAN Başak
Published: January 2024

Bu çalışmanın amacı, Bist Sürdürülebilirlik 25 endeksinde yer alan otomotiv şirketlerinin çevresel sürdürülebilirlik performanslarını şirketlerin sürdürülebilirlik raporlarında yer alan bilgiler ile GRI 300’lü seride yer alan çevresel performans göstergelerine uyum sağlayıp sağlamadıklarını araştırmaktır. Araştırma şirketlerin sürdürülebilirlik raporlarındaki çevre ve iklim değişikliği bölümlerinde yer alan bilgilerle içerik analizi yöntemi kullanılarak yapılmıştır. Böylece otomotiv sektöründeki şirketlerinin sürdürülebilirlik raporları esas alınarak çevresel konulara olan duyarlılığı tespit edilmeye çalışılmıştır.

Araştırmanın sonucunda şirketlerin çevre ve iklim değişikliği konusunda oldukça duyarlı oldukları ve paydaşlara tatmin edici düzeyde açıklamalarda bulundukları tespit edilmiştir. Çalışmanın GRI 300 Çevresel Standartlar göstergelerine uyum konusunda genel olarak şirketlerin enerji tüketimi, su ve atık yönetimi konularında yeterli düzeyde açıklama yaptıkları görülmüş, biyoçeşitlilik, çevre uyumu ve tedarikçi çevresel değerlendirmeleri konusunda yeterli açıklama yapmadıkları sonucuna ulaşılmıştır.
BIST GIDA VE İÇECEK SEKTÖRÜNDE YER ALAN İŞLETMELERDE MALİYET YAPIŞKANLIĞININ ANALİZİ
Authors: POLAT Levent , AÇIK TAŞAR Sezin
Published: January 2024

Bu çalışmada Borsa Istanbul (BIST) Gıda, İçecek endeksinde yer alan işletmeler üzerinde maliyet yapışkanlığının olup olmadığı 2005-2022 yılları arasında panel veri yöntemine göre analiz edilmiştir. Maliyet yapışkanlığını test etmek için sırasıyla, satışların maliyeti ile satış gelirleri ve satış ve genel yönetim giderleri ile satış gelirleri arasındaki ilişki test edilmiştir. Analiz sonuçlarına göre, satış gelirleri ile satışların maliyeti arasında asimetrik bir ilişki olduğu bulunmuş ancak bu ilişkinin istatistiksel olarak anlamlı olmadığı tespit edilmiştir. Satış gelirleri ile satış ve genel yönetim giderleri arasında ise, istatistiki olarak anlamlı ve asimetrik bir ilişki olduğu gözlemlenmiştir. Bu çalışmanın bulguları maliyetlerin asimetrik davrandığını savunan maliyet yapışkanlığı teorisini destekleyici kanıtlar sunmaktadır.
China's wood-based forest product imports and exports: trends and implications
Authors: Wang Y. , Sun X. , Zhu C.
Published: January 2024

This paper presents trends in China's forest product imports and exports during 1998–2019, by analyzing trade data from China's General Customs Administration (GCA). It was found that over the past two decades both imports and exports of forest products have experienced huge growth,
making China an important player in the global forest products market. China's imports are dominated by raw materials such as logs and lumber, while exports are dominated by processed wood products like plywood and furniture. Sources of imports are diverse among different products. While softwood
logs and lumber have been largely from the global north, where forests have mostly been sustainably managed, tropical hardwood have been dominated by unsustainable sources. Changes in the structure of trading products, import sources and export markets, which have been impacted by policies
both at home and from the trade partners, have great implications for sustainable forest management and global actions in halting and reversing deforestation.
Clinical, biochemical, and molecular profiles of three Sri Lankan neonates with pyruvate carboxylase deficiency
Authors: Jasinge Eresha , Fernando Mihika , Indika Neluwa-Liyanage Ruwan , Ratnayake Pyara Dilani , Gamaathige Nalin , Ratnaranjith Ratnanathan , Schroeder Sabine , Jones Patricia , Volha Skrahina , Jayasena Subhashinie , Gunaratna Anusha Varuni , Bandara Ekanayake Asitha Niroshana , Rolfs Arndt
Published: January 2024

Objectives

Pyruvate carboxylase, a mitochondrial enzyme, catalyses the conversion of glycolytic end-product pyruvate to tricarboxylic acid cycle intermediate, oxaloacetate. Rare pyruvate carboxylase deficiency manifests in three clinical and biochemical phenotypes: neonatal onset type A, infantile onset type B and a benign C type. The objective of this case series is to expand the knowledge of overlapping clinical and biochemical phenotypes of pyruvate carboxylase deficiency.

Case presentation

We report three Sri Lankan neonates including two siblings, of two unrelated families with pyruvate carboxylase deficiency. All three developed respiratory distress within the first few hours of birth. Two siblings displayed typical biochemical findings reported in type B. The other proband with normal citrulline, lysine, moderate lactate, paraventricular cystic lesions, bony deformities, and a novel missense, homozygous variant c.2746G>C [p.(Asp916His)] in the PC gene, biochemically favoured type A.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate the necessity of prompt laboratory investigations in a tachypneic neonate with coexisting metabolic acidosis, as early recognition is essential for patient management and family counselling. Further case studies are required to identify overlapping symptoms and biochemical findings in different types of pyruvate carboxylase deficiency phenotypes.
A new species of Craspedostauros (Bacillariophyceae) from the west coast of Sweden, with taxonomic and ecological notes on Craspedostauros laevissimus
Authors: Al-Handal Adil Y. , Ashworth Matt P. , Wulff Angela
Published: January 2024

Since its separation from Stauroneis in 1999, several new species of Craspedostauros were discovered in a variety of habitats and geographic locations, adding morphological and phylogenetic data to the investigations of the genus. In a survey of littoral diatoms of Sweden, both on the west and east coasts, two epiphytic stauros-bearing species were encountered and assigned to Craspedostauros following the characteristic features of this genus, including the possession of a stauros narrower than the central area and cribrate areolae. One species is described as new to science; Craspedostauros lateralis sp. nov., and the other is of uncertain identity but bears morphological similarity to C. laevissimus. Caspedostauros lateralis is a marine epiphytic species found in the west coast of Sweden, off Gothenburg city. Based on light and electron microscopy, a detailed description of the morphological and ultrastructural features of these species is given and a comparison of the distinguishing characters with allied species is discussed. Some ecological data and the occurrence of associated species on the host macrophyte are provided.
A note on b-generalized (α,β)-derivations in prime rings
Authors: Bera Nripendu , Dhara Basudeb
Published: January 2024

Let R be a prime ring, let

0
≠
b
∈
R

{0\neq b\in R}

, and let α and β be two automorphisms of R. Suppose that

F
:

R
→
R

{F:R\rightarrow R}

,

F
1

:

R
→
R

{F_{1}:R\rightarrow R}

are two b-generalized

(
α
,
β
)

{(\alpha,\beta)}

-derivations of R associated with the same

(
α
,
β
)

{(\alpha,\beta)}

-derivation

d
:

R
→
R

d:R\rightarrow R

, and let

G
:

R
→
R

G:R\rightarrow R

be a b-generalized

(
α
,
β
)

(\alpha,\beta)

-derivation of R associated with

(
α
,
β
)

(\alpha,\beta)

-derivation

g
:

R
→
R

g:R\rightarrow R

. The main objective of this paper is to investigate
the following algebraic identities:

(1)

F
⁢

(

x
⁢
y

)

+

α
⁢

(

x
⁢
y

)

+

α
⁢

(

y
⁢
x

)

=
0

{F(xy)+\alpha(xy)+\alpha(yx)=0}

,

(2)

F
⁢

(

x
⁢
y

)

+

G
⁢

(
x
)

⁢
α
⁢

(
y
)

+

α
⁢

(

y
⁢
x

)

=
0

{F(xy)+G(x)\alpha(y)+\alpha(yx)=0}

,

(3)

F
⁢

(

x
⁢
y

)

+

G
⁢

(

y
⁢
x

)

+

α
⁢

(

x
⁢
y

)

+

α
⁢

(

y
⁢
x

)

=
0

{F(xy)+G(yx)+\alpha(xy)+\alpha(yx)=0}

,

(4)

F
⁢

(
x
)

⁢
F
⁢

(
y
)

+

G
⁢

(
x
)

⁢
α
⁢

(
y
)

+

α
⁢

(

y
⁢
x

)

=
0

{F(x)F(y)+G(x)\alpha(y)+\alpha(yx)=0}

,

(5)

F
⁢

(

x
⁢
y

)

+

d
⁢

(
x
)

⁢

F
1

⁢

(
y
)

+

α
⁢

(

x
⁢
y

)

=
0

{F(xy)+d(x)F_{1}(y)+\alpha(xy)=0}

,

(6)

F
⁢

(

x
⁢
y

)

+

d
⁢

(
x
)

⁢

F
1

⁢

(
y
)

=
0

{F(xy)+d(x)F_{1}(y)=0}

,

(7)

F
⁢

(

x
⁢
y

)

+

d
⁢

(
x
)

⁢

F
1

⁢

(
y
)

+

α
⁢

(

y
⁢
x

)

=
0

{F(xy)+d(x)F_{1}(y)+\alpha(yx)=0}

,

(8)

F
⁢

(

x
⁢
y

)

+

d
⁢

(
x
)

⁢

F
1

⁢

(
y
)

+

α
⁢

(

x
⁢
y

)

+

α
⁢

(

y
⁢
x

)

=
0

{F(xy)+d(x)F_{1}(y)+\alpha(xy)+\alpha(yx)=0}

,

(9)

F
⁢

(

x
⁢
y

)

+

d
⁢

(
x
)

⁢

F
1

⁢

(
y
)

+

α
⁢

(

y
⁢
x

)

-

α
⁢

(

x
⁢
y

)

=
0

{F(xy)+d(x)F_{1}(y)+\alpha(yx)-\alpha(xy)=0}

,

(10)

[

F
⁢

(
x
)

,
x
]

α
,
β

=
0

{[F(x),x]_{\alpha,\beta}=0}

,

(11)

(

F
⁢

(
x
)

∘
x

)

α
,
β

=
0

{(F(x)\circ x)_{\alpha,\beta}=0}

,

(12)

F
⁢

(

[
x
,
y
]

)

=

[
x
,
y
]

α
,
β

{F([x,y])=[x,y]_{\alpha,\beta}}

,

(13)

F
⁢

(

x
∘
y

)

=

(

x
∘
y

)

α
,
β

{F(x\circ y)=(x\circ y)_{\alpha,\beta}}

for all

x
,
y

{x,y}

in some suitable subset of R.
Humor styles in the classroom: students’ perceptions of lecturer humor
Authors: James Lucy Amelia , Fox Claire Louise
Published: January 2024

Previous research has shown that humor can have an impact on people’s interpersonal relationships and the way they are perceived by others. In addition, it has been suggested that use of humor by teachers can be positive, but also negative. The aim of the research was to examine students’ perceptions of lecturers described as using different ‘humor styles.’ Using an online study, a sample of undergraduate students (n = 201) were presented with one of 20 vignettes of a male or female lecturer using a particular style of humor (affiliative, aggressive, self-defeating, self-enhancing) or no humor, while they were teaching content described as ‘easy’ or ‘challenging.’ They responded to questions to assess: approachability of the lecturer, feelings of engagement, perceptions of the learning environment, and general perceptions of the lecturer. It was found that a lecturer using aggressive humor was perceived more negatively compared to when using the other humor styles, and that the adaptive styles of humor (particularly affiliative) had a positive impact on student perceptions, compared to when no humor was used. Self-defeating humor was perceived more positively compared to aggressive humor, but, unexpectedly, no differently to the other styles of humor. The findings will add to the growing literature on the use of humor in an educational context.
Mock impoliteness in Spanish: evidence from the VALESCO.HUMOR corpus
Authors: Ruiz-Gurillo Leonor
Published: January 2024

Mock impoliteness is defined as a specific form of politeness, one in which participants in a conversation perceive acts such as jocular mockery, insults and banter as non-impolite (Haugh, Michael & Derek Bousfield. 2012. Mock impoliteness in interactions amongst Australian and British speakers of English. Journal of Pragmatics 44. 1099–1114). Following the model of the third wave of politeness and Sinkeviciute, Valeria (2019. Conversational humour and (im) politeness: A pragmatic analysis of social interaction. Amsterdam: John Benjamins), the aim of this paper is twofold. First, it seeks to contribute to a better understanding of the phenomenon in colloquial conversation. Second, it illustrates this in a language other than English, specifically Peninsular Spanish, using data on informal interactions. The database is composed of 148 humorous sequences from the VALESCO.HUMOR corpus (http://www.observahumor.com/corpus_valesco). 25.67 % of these were identified and analyzed as mock impoliteness, using a tentative procedure for exploring humor negotiation in mock impoliteness through the assessment of a number of elements. These included the issue of which linguistic and paralinguistic elements are used by participants, and the interpretation of the initial aggressive style focused on the target, be it the recipient in a conversation or an absent third party (Béal, Christine & Kerry Mullan. 2017. The pragmatics of conversational humour in social visits: French and Australian English. Language & Communication 55. 24–40). Finally, we considered the question of whether or not the humor introduced by mock impoliteness was sustained throughout a sequence. When a target is oriented to a recipient in the exchange, the data shows a trend towards strengthening social bonds with the group and sustaining humor across the sequence. In other cases, however, the recipient might feel offended or insulted and hence respond in a serious mode, the main effect of the humor then being to create social distance within the participant group. When the target is oriented to an absent third party, humor tends to serve to reinforce cohesiveness between the group at the expense of others.
Why cartoons make (some of) us smile
Authors: Dunbar Robin I. M. , Stirling-Middleton Emma
Published: January 2024

Pocket cartoons are a regular feature of most contemporary newspapers and magazines. As such, they represent a way of conveying complex social and political commentary in a simple visual form. How well we enjoy verbal (oral) jokes depends on the number of mindstates in the joke, and here we ask whether this is also true of visual cartoons. We use survey data from a sample of 3,380 participants attending a public exhibition of published print media cartoons by well-known cartoonists to determine the extent to which viewers’ ratings of cartoons are determined by the mentalizing content of cartoons, the participants’ gender and age, and the publication date of the cartoon. We show that the number of mindstates involved in the cartoon affects its appreciation, just as in verbal jokes. In addition, we show that preferred topics vary by age and gender. While both genders strongly prefer cartoons that explore the complexities of romantic relationships, men rate visual jokes more highly than women do, whereas women prefer jokes that involve political commentary or the dynamics of close relationships. These differences seem to reflect differences in the way the social worlds of the two genders are organized.
Biomedical event extraction using pre-trained SciBERT
Authors: Mulya Dimmas , Khodra Masayu Leylia
Published: January 2024

Biomedical event extraction is applied to biomedical texts to obtain a list of events within the biomedical domain. The best GENIA biomedical event extraction research uses sequence labeling techniques with a joint approach, softmax decoder for event trigger identification, and the BioBERT v1.1 encoder. However, this event extraction model has three drawbacks: tasks are carried out independently, it does not provide special handling of multi-label event trigger labels, and it uses an encoder with vocabulary from non-biomedical domains. We propose to use the pipeline approach to provide forward information sigmoid to address multi-label event trigger labels and alternative BERT encoders with vocabulary from the biomedical domain. The experiment showed that the performance of the biomedical event extraction model increased after changing the encoder, which had been built using a biomedical-specific domain vocabulary. Changing the encoder to SciBERT while still using the joint approach and softmax decoder increased the precision by 4.22 points (reaching 69.88) and resulted in anF1-score of 58.48.