bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epoxy Coating of Biofiber: An Effective Modifier of Biofiber Physical and Flow Properties for Improved Tensile Behavior of Biofiber-Reinforced Biocomposite
Authors: Oyedeji Oluwafemi A. , Zhao Xianhui , Cochrane Jenesis , Snider Hannah , Brown Hannah Ruth , Grejtak Tomas , Qu Jun , Williams C. Luke , Webb Erin
Published: October 2024

Highlights

Loblolly pine and corn stover fiber were successfully surface-treated with epoxy.

Surface-treated fibers produced biocomposites with improved tensile properties.

Surface treatment process results in a more evenly dispersed fiber bulk structure.

Tensile strength and Young’s modulus of the biocomposite reached 58 MPa and 5 GPa, respectively.

Abstract. Biocomposites combine renewable, plant-based fibers with degradable polymers and are an attractive option for sustainable, lightweight, and cost-effective materials with a low carbon footprint, especially for large-scale additive manufacturing. One of the major challenges in the widespread adoption of biocomposites is that their mechanical performance is significantly inferior to that of synthetic composites. Surface treatment is a common and effective technique to improve the mechanical properties of the biofibers used in biocomposites. This study aims to investigate the physical and flow properties of surface-treated biofibers, as well as the tensile properties of their PLA-based biocomposite, to gain insights into how surface treatment changes the fiber’s characteristics and biocomposite’s mechanical properties. Surface treatment was created using a two-component epoxy system by reacting poly(bisphenol A-co-epichlorohydrin) glycidyl end-capped (PBG) and dicyandiamide (DICY). The treatment was tested on two different biofibers (loblolly pine and corn stover fibers) with three different PBG/DICY molar ratios (0.25, 0.5, and 2). Results showed that surface-treated fibers improved the tensile strength and Young’s modulus of the biocomposites. Loblolly pine biocomposites from fibers treated with a PBG/DICY ratio of 0.25 exhibited the best tensile properties. The surface treatment resulted in a more loosely dispersed fiber bulk structure, as evidenced by less fiber agglomeration into smaller particle sizes, higher fiber sphericity, and lower loose bulk density. This can enhance stress distribution and the overall mechanical performance of the biocomposites. Additionally, surface-treated fibers exhibited better dynamic flow properties. Keywords: Fiber size and shape, Fiber surface roughness, Flow properties, PLA-based biocomposite, Surface treatment.
In Memoriam: Alex Edillor
Authors: Delute Herb
Published: October 2024

Abstract: FANHS Delano lost its cofounder and president, Alex Edillor. Alex's story is similar to our story and our family's journey. Like many of us, Alex was able to reconnect to our Philippine roots and learn about our Filipino American History and Identity. With this experience and knowledge, Alex proudly used his voice to advocate and to tell the stories of the Filipino Americans in Delano and in the California Central Valley.
The Bridge Generation and Building Bridges
Authors: Cordova Fred
Published: October 2024

Abstract: This is a transcript of a speech Uncle Fred gave at the 5th biennial FANHS national conference, held in San Francisco in 1994. This piece highlights the impending future of FANHS —at that time—and honors the Bridge Generation for their pioneering work.
The Bridge Generation and Building Bridges in the Twenty-First Century
Authors: Monberg Terese Guinsatao , Halagao Patricia Espiritu
Published: October 2024

Abstract: In this talkback piece to Uncle Fred'sseminal article, "The Bridge Generation and Building Bridges," the co-editors of the FANHS Journal explore the relevance of historical issues in the present day. They revisit the experiences of the Manong and Manang bridge generation, born before 1946, using Uncle Fred's metaphor of "bridges" to show the diverse identities and stories within the Filipino community. The editors also discuss how the content and structure of the FANHS Journal are designed to be inclusive of the various approaches to community service and research in Filipino American history.
Loréa T. Acuszaar Biography
Authors: Johnstone Karen
Published: October 2024

Abstract: This is a brief biography of Loréa T. Acuszaar, educator, counselor, advisor, and pioneer in multicultural education and diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. She was among the early "Bridge Generation"—the Second Generation, American-born children of immigrant parents. Her life path was distinctly Second Generation, pursuing opportunities for education, experience, and expertise, often as a trailblazer—the first or among the first Second Generation children to go on to advanced degrees, positions of authority, leadership, and creativity; a leader inspiring upcoming generations to pursue and hone their own passions and talents.
Growing Up Filipino: Perspectives from a Third-Generation Filipina Born and Raised in America
Authors: Gruber Darva (Otlang)
Published: October 2024

Abstract: Darva (Otlang) Gruber is a third-generation Filipino American who does not speak Tagalog or any other Philippine language. She shares her perspective and personal struggle identifying as a Filipino American within the Filipino community in the United States, which her family roots now extend to the fifth generation. Her children married non-Filipino spouses, which lend to her grandchildren's fair skin that takes them further away from their Filipino heritage in appearances. She expresses the con cerns she has on bridging the gap between the generations. The Filipino American experience is unique, as is each individ ual. Each generation bridges this gap by how it greets and inter acts with one another.
Building Bridges among Filipinos in Kodiak, Alaska
Authors: Santarita Joefe B.
Published: October 2024

Abstract: Building bridges has many meanings. For Fred Cordova, it could mean connecting the Filipino migrants in the United States and their relatives in the Philippines, or linking the first generation and the succeeding generations. This article further explores another meaning—the strategies of certain members of a particular generation to connect with their kin in the Philippines, their community in Kodiak Island, and beyond. These bridges could be in the form of capitals, as expounded by Pierre Bourdieu, and are manifested in food, culture, political participation, social engagements, and so on in Kodiak Island, Alaska.
“It Had Been Rather Good”: Recovering Joy through the Practice of Black Resistance inside the Kitchenette
Authors: Hamilton Summer L.
Published: October 2024

Abstract: This article analyzes how Black authors pushed back on white definitions of home that excluded Black residents of kitchenette housing. By performing a close textual analysis of Gwendolyn Brooks’s Maud Martha (1953) and Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun (1959), the article examines how these works use the abject space and positionality of the kitchenette and its residents to challenge the signification of home and the stigmatization by those who would always see Black lives as wanting. Ultimately, Brooks and Hansberry depict characters who refuse to capitulate to discursive confinement and instead trouble sociopolitical norms and structures and propose new ways of knowing and being to find agency and joy.
a critical love letter to my ancestors: perhaps a therapeutics of recognition?
Authors: Lau Gracelynn Chung-yan
Published: October 2024

Preface: Part memoir, part Chinese history, part theoretical reckoning with settler positionality of my lineage as an immigrant on Turtle Island from Hong Kong, this article is a critical self-study and creative nonfiction experiment that dialogues with colonial recognition and with the abjection method to the self and ancestry, to wrestle with generational failures and what it means to honor my ancestors. I walk through the lens of Kristeva, Fanon, Muñoz, and Coulthard, using their frameworks to understand my distance and relationship with my ancestors and to speculate on their contexts, mindset, and behavior with the colonizers and as the colonizing others, engaging from a place of critical love. This article aligns with the mode of “depth education” as discussed by Andreotti (2021), as an inquiry to expand the researcher’s capacities and dispositions to observe our own affective responses and to hold space for complexities and paradoxes within and around us, without feeling immobilized or demanding to be rescued from discomfort. The writing uses a performative writing approach to interrupt conventional scholarly texts and discourse and seeks to generate curiosity and responses in knowledge-creation spaces.
Energy-efficient semiconductor optical amplifier with longitudinally varying confinement factor
Authors: Heck Martijn J. R.
Published: October 2024

A novel, to the best of our knowledge, type of semiconductor optical amplifier (SOA) with improved energy efficiency is presented conceptually and simulated numerically, using parameters based on a well-established heterogeneous photonic integration platform. The SOA has a confinement factor that can be varied by a waveguide design only, and thus the gain, loss, and saturation can be tailored along the light propagation direction. By using a tapered waveguide, the SOA can be designed for high gain at the input and high saturation at the output. By optimizing the design, it is shown that an almost 2-dB increase in saturation input power and a 10% increase in efficiency can be achieved, as compared to existing designs. This SOA design can be a key enabler for generic heterogeneous photonic integration platforms.
Field experimental mode-pairing quantum key distribution with intensity fluctuations
Authors: Li Zhenhua , Dou Tianqi , Cheng Ming , Liu Yang , Tang Jianjun
Published: October 2024

The mode-pairing quantum key distribution (MP-QKD) protocol, which can achieve high key rates over long distances without phase locking, is a potential candidate for implementing intercity QKD. However, achieving precise control of the light source intensity in a field MP-QKD experiment is an exceedingly challenging task. In this Letter, we study the decoy-state MP-QKD protocol with light source intensity fluctuations. Furthermore, we propose a statistical analysis method based on the T-distribution to calculate confidence intervals of intensity fluctuations. Finally, in the field MP-QKD experiments, considering intensity fluctuations and the finite size effect, we obtain secure key rates of 1.03 × 10−6 bit/pair and 3.64 × 10−6 bit/pair for the symmetric (195.8 km) and asymmetric (127.7 km) cases, respectively.
State-of-the-Art Neural Network-Based Equalizers for Coherent Optical Communication Systems: Architectures and Complexity
Authors: Srivallapanondh Sasipim , Souza Pedro , Napoli Antonio , Prilepsky Jaroslaw , Turitsyn Sergei
Published: October 2024

This paper reviews recent advancements in neural network (NN)-based equalizers for coherent optical communication systems, with a focus on their architecture and complexity. Various approaches are surveyed across transmission schemes, including single-channel, wavelength-division multiplexing, and digital subcarrier multiplexing systems. The study highlights the effectiveness of NNs in mitigating nonlinear impairments, improving signal quality, and transmission capacity. An overview of reduced-complexity NN-based equalizers in different transmission schemes is also provided, demonstrating their potential for real-time applications in future high-speed optical networks.
Generating 1.2 GHz, 38 fs Stretched-pulse directly from a robust mode locked solid-state fiber laser
Authors: wang ya , Yang Ruoao , Chen Zhendong , Pan Duo , Luo Bin , Zhang Zhigang , Chen Jingbiao
Published: October 2024

We demonstrated the first 1.2 GHz nonlinear polarization rotation stretched-pulse mode-locked Yb laser with a compact design and innovative components. With a compact Faraday rotation angle has been used in NPR mode-locked lasers, and we find that incomplete isolation of backward light does not hinder self-starting. This laser directly outputs sub-40 fs pulses with a spectral bandwidth exceeding 70 nm, achieving over 1 W of average output power. The laser serves as a seed source, generating a supercontinuum over one octave-spanning range without external amplification or compression.
User preferences for an mHealth app to support HIV testing and pre-exposure prophylaxis uptake among men who have sex with men in Malaysia
Authors: Palmer Lindsay , Wickersham Jeffrey A. , Gautam Kamal , Maviglia Francesca , Bruno Beverly-Danielle , Azwa Iskandar , Khati Antoine , Altice Frederick L. , Paudel Kiran , Pagoto Sherry , Shrestha Roman
Published: October 2024

Recent estimates report a high incidence and prevalence of HIV among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Malaysia. Mobile apps are a promising and cost-effective intervention modality to reach stigmatized and hard-to-reach populations to link them to HIV prevention services (e.g., HIV testing, pre-exposure prophylaxis, PrEP). This study assessed attitudes and preferences toward the format, content, and features of a mobile app designed to increase HIV testing and PrEP uptake among Malaysian MSM. We conducted six online focus groups between August and September 2021 with 20 MSM and 16 stakeholders (e.g., doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and NGO staff) to query. Transcripts were analyzed in Dedoose software to identify thematic content. Key themes in terms of app functions related to stylistic preferences (e.g., design, user interface), engagement strategies (e.g., reward systems, reminders), recommendations for new functions (e.g., enhanced communication options via chat, discussion forum), cost of services (e.g., PrEP), and legal considerations concerning certain features (e.g., telehealth, patient identification), minimizing privacy and confidentiality risks. Our data suggest that a tailored HIV prevention app would be acceptable among MSM in Malaysia. The findings further provide detailed recommendations for successfully developing a mobile app to improve access to HIV prevention services (e.g., HIV testing, PrEP) for optimal use among MSM in Malaysia.
Dynamics of major plant nutrients and enzymatic activities in soil influenced by application of biochar and organic waste
Authors: Dotaniya M. L. , Meena M. D. , Choudhary R. L. , Meena M. K. , Meena V. D. , Singh Harvir , Lakaria Brij Lal , Jat R. S. , Rai P. K. , Kumar Kuldeep , Doutaniya R. K. , Singh Harpreet
Published: October 2024

The concentration of salt ions influences the availability and plant nutrients dynamics in the soil. Proper management of these ions can enhance food grain production, helping to feed the growing population. In this experiment, nine fertility combinations were followed to enhance the soil organic carbon and reduce the salt toxicity and monitor the plant nutrient availability. An incubation experiment was conducted for the period of one year with different organic soil amendments in combinations including biochar (BC), pressmud (PM), and farm yard manure (FYM) as follow: T1-control, T2-RDF, T3-FYM (10 t/ha), T4-PM (10 t/ha), T5-BC (10 t/ha), T6-FYM (5 t/ha) + PM (5 t/ha), T7-FYM (5 t/ha) + BC (5 t/ha), T8-PM (5 t/ha) + BC (5 t/ha), T9-FYM (5 t/ha) + BC (2.5 t/ha) + PM (2.5 t/ha). Results showed that addition of organic substance (10 t/ha) significantly (p < 0.05) affected soil pH and electric conductivity. Plant nutrient availability (N, K, and S) was also influenced by application of organic substance (10 t/ha). Organic C and available N were recorded the highest in the treatment T7 (FYM—5 t/ha + BC -5 t/ha); whereas, the highest available K and S were observed in treatment T5 (BC-10 t/ha). The microbial soil fertility indicators (alkaline phosphatases, arylsulphatase, dehydrogenase activity and microbial biomass carbon) were measured the highest in FYM (5 t/ha) + BC (5 t/ha) applied treatment. In conclusion, application of organic substance 10 t/ha (biochar alone or with FYM) improved the plant nutrient availability and soil microbial activities in saline soil. It could be a suitable option for enhancing the soil fertility in saline soils.
Impact of virtual reality immersion on exercise performance and perceptions in young, middle-aged and older adults
Authors: Hibbs Angela , Tempest Gavin , Hettinga Florentina , Barry Gillian
Published: October 2024

This study compared the effect of high and low levels of virtual reality (VR) immersion during moderate and high intensity cycling-exercise in younger (18–35 years), middle-aged (36–50 years), and older (51–69 years) adults. Thirty participants (5 female and 5 males per age group) completed moderate (steady state: 15 minutes at 60–75% maximum heart rate (MHR)) and high (sprint: 10 x 30 second sprints at 75–85% MHR) intensity cycling in four conditions: VR using a head-mounted display (High HMD), room-projector (Low Room), screen-projector (Low Screen) and No VR. Exercise performance measures (cadence, distance, power output) were recorded. Following each VR condition, exercise enjoyment (PACES) and exercise engagement (Flow State Scale) were measured. Results showed that exercise intensity had a significant effect of age on; heart rate (steady state and sprint), cadence (sprint) and distance (sprint) (p’s <0.05). A significant effect of condition was observed during the sprint exercise for heart rate (p < 0.05). No other significant condition effects were observed for exercise performance. Significant effects of condition were identified for exercise engagement relating to sense of control (p < 0.01) and loss of self-consciousness (p < 0.05) with the highest values occurring in the Low Screen condition for all age groups, while transformation of time was significantly different (p < 0.05) for the middle-aged adults (highest during High VR and Low Screen). These results indicate that irrespective of age, participants found themselves in control and immersed more during the Low Screen VR condition than the other VR and No VR conditions. The findings indicate that VR immersion impacts exercise performance and exercise engagement in different age-groups and therefore should be considered when using VR to promote exercise behaviour.
MosquitoSong+: A noise-robust deep learning model for mosquito classification from wingbeat sounds
Authors: Supratak Akara , Haddawy Peter , Yin Myat Su , Ziemer Tim , Siritanakorn Worameth , Assawavinijkulchai Kanpitcha , Chiamsakul Kanrawee , Chantanalertvilai Tharit , Suchalermkul Wish , Sa-ngamuang Chaitawat , Sriwichai Patchara
Published: October 2024

In order to assess risk of mosquito-vector borne disease and to effectively target and monitor vector control efforts, accurate information about mosquito vector population densities is needed. The traditional and still most common approach to this involves the use of traps along with manual counting and classification of mosquito species, but the costly and labor-intensive nature of this approach limits its widespread use. Numerous previous studies have sought to address this problem by developing machine learning models to automatically identify species and sex of mosquitoes based on their wingbeat sounds. Yet little work has addressed the issue of robust classification in the presence of environmental background noise, which is essential to making the approach practical. In this paper, we propose a new deep learning model, MosquitoSong+, to identify the species and sex of mosquitoes from raw wingbeat sounds so that it is robust to the environmental noise and the relative volume of the mosquito’s flight tone. The proposed model extends the existing 1D-CNN model by adjusting its architecture and introducing two data augmentation techniques during model training: noise augmentation and wingbeat volume variation. Experiments show that the new model has very good generalizability, with species classification accuracy above 80% on several wingbeat datasets with various background noise. It also has an accuracy of 93.3% for species and sex classification on wingbeat sounds overlaid with various background noises. These results suggest that the proposed approach may be a practical means to develop classification models that can perform well in the field.
A novel method for generating public keys involving matrix operations
Authors: Sun Xin , Han Jiajia , Lv Bang , Sun Changhua , Zeng Cheng
Published: October 2024

With the rise of the Internet of things, the limitations of traditional PKI certificate authentication technology have progressively emerged. Hence, identity-based public key algorithms have been proposed. In this paper, we propose a new approach to generate an identity key, named identity public key (IPK). IPK identity key generation protocol is based on SM2 elliptic curve cryptography and random matrix theory. It builds upon the concept of combined public key (CPK) and resolves the linear collusion issue of CPK as well as the authenticity verification problem of the declared public key of the simplified TF-CPK by enhancing the identity mapping approach. Another main aim of this paper is to prove the security of the IPK identity key generation protocol. Roughly speaking, we verify the security of each part of the private key and the security of the composite private key. We also increase the function and performance comparison with other schemes, such as IBC(SM9) and TF-CPK. Our scheme has the lowest computation cost, which demonstrates its rationality.
Parental attachment, attachment to friends, and well-being among Chilean adolescents and emerging adults
Authors: Valarezo-Bravo Omayck , Guzmán-González Mónica , Włodarczyk Anna , Ubillos-Landa Silvia , Casu Giulia
Published: October 2024

Adolescence and emerging adulthood are two life stages marked by notable cognitive and socioemotional changes. During both periods, friendships play an increasingly significant role and can significantly impact individuals positively or negatively. Despite the evolving nature of these relationships, parents remain crucial to the development of both adolescents and emerging adults, playing a key role in their well-being. This study aimed to investigate the mediating role of attachment to friends in the relationship between parental attachment and the well-being of Chilean adolescents and emerging adults. In a cross-sectional correlational study, 363 adolescents (48.2% female) aged 14 to 17 years (M = 15.33, SD = 0.95) and 199 emerging adults (67.8% female) aged 18 to 29 years (M = 22.42, SD = 2.53) completed the Inventory of Parent and Peer Attachment and the Pemberton Happiness Index Scale to assess general, eudaimonic, hedonic, and social well-being. Results of path analyses indicated that, for both adolescents and emerging adults, a more secure attachment to parents was directly associated with higher scores in all well-being dimensions. Additionally, more secure parental attachment was indirectly associated with better eudaimonic and social well-being through a more secure attachment to friends. These findings suggest that enhancing parental attachment could be a valuable focus in clinical interventions aimed at improving overall well-being in adolescents and emerging adults.
UV-C disinfection of ultrasound probes: Challenges of uneven irradiance on complex surfaces
Authors: Yeoh LaReine , Cogar Luke , Barak Mayes , Tan Lit Yeen , Spargo Gavin , Burdach Jon
Published: October 2024

Medical devices that contact non-intact skin or mucous membranes are considered semi-critical devices and must undergo high-level disinfection (HLD) before use. Studies have identified several potential limitations of UV-C for HLD of semi-critical medical devices, including a lack of data demonstrating that UV-C irradiance can be uniformly applied to complex surfaces that contain grooves, notches and imperfections. This study focused on ultrasound probes as commonly used medical devices to show the distribution of irradiance on these surfaces. An endocavity bi-plane probe and curved array surface probe with typical surface topology were 3D scanned and modelled and an array of UV-C light-emitting diodes (LEDs) irradiating the probe surfaces was simulated (simulated wavelength: 275nm [peak], power output: 50mW). The simulated chamber wall material was equivalent to highly reflective polished aluminum with a defined reflectance of 79% at 275nm. To calculate the cycle time required to achieve HLD on probe surfaces, a minimum effective dosage of 1500mJ/cm2 based on published research was used. The simulated irradiance distribution showed a large difference between the points of highest and lowest irradiance (maximum/minimum ratio: 14.70 for the surface probe and 12.74 for the endocavity probe). In addition, the presence of shadowing effects adjacent to notches or grooves was evident. By applying an effective UV-C dose from the literature, cycle times of up to 25 minutes would be required to achieve HLD in the minimally irradiated areas of the probes used in the simulation. These findings highlight the need to demonstrate the efficacy of UV-C radiation against worst case organisms in the areas of lowest irradiance on medical devices to provide assurance these devices are reliably high level disinfected.
Towards an ecology of the short story
Authors: Ashworth A. J. , Vecino Aleix Tura
Published: October 2024

This editorial begins by briefly mapping the rise of environmental science fiction in recent years and noticing that short fiction studies are yet to fully embrace ecocriticism as an angle from which to study the short story form. After remarking that the Special Section of this volume of Short Fiction in Theory & Practice intends to contribute to both of these projects, the editorial provides a brief summary of the articles, stories and interview included in the section. The editorial ends with brief descriptions of the articles and book reviews included in the General Section of the issue.
Fidelity, focalization and nostalgia: The audio adaptation of Neil Gaiman’s The Sandman
Authors: Schniedermann Wibke
Published: October 2024

Neil Gaiman’s superhero comic series The Sandman had never officially been adapted to any other medium when Audible released the first instalment of its audio drama series in 2020. This article reads that adaptation in the context of current media nostalgia trends while paying special attention to the production choices guided by fans’ affective engagement with popular texts. I will look at some of the adaptation strategies used to turn the comic’s verbal text and its visuals into speech and sound. The focus will be twofold. Firstly, I will explore how questions of fidelity can be applied to this comic-to-audio case, by investigating how the Sandman adaptation’s faithfulness to its source text relates to the way in which the audio drama taps into the audience’s nostalgic engagement with the text. Secondly, my reading also contributes to narratological debates over the use of focalization in both comics and audio narratives. To unpack the shifts in focalization and narrative perspective that occur between comic and audio play, I will zoom in on the function of the comic’s omniscient narrator as it translates into the audio adaptation.
Study of Electron Beam Irradiated Palladium on Carbon Catalysts for Transfer Hydrogenation Reactions of Nitroarenes Compounds
Authors: Suresh B. , Vanmathi G.
Published: October 2024

Palladium-catalyzed hydrogenation is considered a crucial stage in the entire synthesis of difficult natural products as well as a crucial step in the manufacturing of fine compounds used in pharmaceuticals. When it comes to the reaction rate and simplicity of work-up, using Pd/C as heterogeneous catalyst is one of the best choice for process efficiency. In this study, nitroarenes compounds viz. 3-bromo nitrobenzene, 4-fluoro nitrobenzene, 3-methyl nitrobenzene, 4-hydroxy nitrobenzene reduced by using macro 10% Pd/C and micro 10% Pd/C to 3-bromo aniline, 4-fluoro aniline, 3-methyl aniline, 4-hydroxy aniline respectively and verified from 1H NMR studies. The reduction reactions were similar conditions using electron beam irradiated 250 kGy macro and micro 10% Pd/C catalyst. The effectiveness of commercial sources of palladium on carbon (Pd/C) varies widely, leading to the appreciable variations in the reaction times. The decrease in reaction time has been attributed to the higher dispersion of Pd particles upon irradiation. The physico-chemical characteristics of effective hydrogenation catalysts were determined to be: (i) small Pd particle size and (ii) homogeneous distribution of Pd on the carbon support. With no significant loss of catalytic activity, the electron beam-irradiated catalyst can be used again for five runs. These days, chemists can determine as well as forecast the effectiveness of catalysts before investing time and money in expensive synthetic materials.
Physico-chemical Study of Surface Active Ionic Liquid (SAIL) in Aqueous Inulin Solutions: Density and Speed of Sound Measurements
Authors: Manish  , Chauhan Suvarcha
Published: October 2024

Colloidal formulations of surface active ionic liquid (SAIL) have substantial benefit as efficient carrier mainly for therapeutic/pharmaceutical agents. In this regard, density (ρ) and speed of sound (u) have been employed to evaluate the diverse interactions/association behaviour of greener SAIL tetrabutylammonium dodecylsulphate (TBADS) (0.222 to 2.2 mmol kg-1) in aqueous inulin solutions (0.0, 0.2 and 0.3% w/w) at five different temperatures ranging from 293.15 K to 313.15 K. The volumetric and acoustic parameters viz. isentropic compressibility (κs), apparent molar volume (Vφ) and compressibility (κs,φ), intermolecular free length (Lf), relative association (RA), specific acoustic impedance (Z) and molar sound number ([U]) have been calculated by using density (ρ) and speed of sound (u) values. The existence of hydrophilic/hydrophobic interactions for TBADS in aqueous inulin solution is suggested by the variations in volumetric parameters, which further supported by various calculated acoustic parameters. Thus, the interactional outcomes can offer implications that stabilized inulin in the presence of SAILs and can be utilized for the optimal biotic actions.
Revisiting PD: Unraveling the brain-first and body-first perspectives
Authors: Lee Woong-Woo
Published: October 2024

Parkinson’s disease (PD) has undergone significant advancements in diagnosis and treatment over the past century, with apparent dopaminergic cell degeneration on dopamine transporter scans and a strong response to medication being key features. However, the etiology remains complex, involving various pathogenic mechanisms beyond alpha-synuclein accumulation. The recent brain-first versus body-first hypothesis, emerging from advances in functional imaging and clinical symptom clustering, suggests distinct starting points of alpha-synuclein pathology-either in the brain or the body, with subsequent spread via neural connections. This theory, exemplified by the alpha-synuclein origin site and connectome (SOC) model, proposes that body-first PD may originate in the enteric nervous system and spread to the brain, while brain-first PD starts within the central nervous system, such as the olfactory bulb or amygdala. While the SOC model offers valuable insights into the progression of PD, it raises several controversies. Critics argue that the model may oversimplify the disease’s complexity, failing to account for overlapping symptoms and the varying progression rates observed in different subtypes. Furthermore, there are concerns about the lack of longitudinal data and the potential for reclassification of PD subtypes over time. Despite these challenges, the ongoing development of imaging techniques that reflect in-vivo pathology holds promise for resolving these controversies and advancing the selection of patients for disease-modifying therapies.
Improving the Engineering Properties of Laterite Soil Using Sharp Sand: A Sustainable Stabilization Technique
Authors: Tertsea Dekpoghol , N. T. Akpusugh , V. E. Akpusugh
Published: October 2024

The paper presents an investigation into the stabilization of laterite soil using sharp sand. Laterite soil is used in most construction work but its poor engineering properties makes it a challenge for infrastructure development. The use of Sharp sand shows an improvement in the strength and durability of laterite soil. This study explore the used of Sharp sand to improve the engineering properties of laterite soil. The essence of this study is to improve the engineering qualities of laterite soil for use in construction by stabilizing it with sharp sand. Although laterite soils are frequently utilized for building foundations and road construction pavement, particularly in tropical areas, their performance may be limited by their inherent high flexibility and low bearing capacity. By enhancing these characteristics, stabilization procedures can increase laterite's suitability for structural applications. In order to evaluate changes in soil properties such compressive strength, plasticity index, and load-bearing capacity, this study investigates the effects of combining different ratios of sharp sand with laterite. Samples with varying ratios of laterite to sharp sand were subjected to laboratory tests, such as the California Bearing Ratio (CBR) tests, compaction tests, and the Atterberg limits. According to the results, adding sharp sand to laterite increases its strength and reduces its flexibility. According to this, sharp sand may stabilize laterite soil effectively and economically, allowing for a greater variety of construction uses and lowering the need for more expensive alternatives. According to the study's findings, adding sharp sand can greatly enhance laterite's engineering qualities, making it a good choice for environmentally friendly, low-cost building.
A terra, o campesinato e a agroecologia no Assentamento Santana em Monsenhor Tabosa - Ceará, Brasil
Authors: Oliveira Adeliane Vieira de
Published: October 2024

Neste artigo analisamos a condição camponesa no Assentamento Santana em Monsenhor Tabosa – Ceará. Apresentamos a luta pela terra do Assentamento e como a organização camponesa vem forjando possibilidades de luta e conquista de vida digna na terra, a partir da articulação do campesinato e a organização das práticas agroecológicas no território do Assentamento que se encontra em processo de transição agroecológica. Os procedimentos metodológicos compreenderam a pesquisa bibliográfica e a pesquisa de campo em que se utilizou a entrevista semiestruturada como principal instrumento de coleta de dados, somados ao diário de campo e aos registros fotográficos. Constatamos que no Assentamento Santana, os camponeses organizados em coletivos e mobilizando-se a partir de práticas agroecológicas, estão erguendo uma nova condição camponesa. Sendo possível perceber que as práticas vão se fortalecendo nos territórios, numa perspectiva dialética que move a vida e o fazer viver garantindo a afirmação dos interesses do campesinato.
Writing Scripts for “Bincang Sore” Program Broadcasts on Radio Solopos 103 FM
Authors: Priliantini Anjang , Ambarwati Rista
Published: October 2024

This research examines the process of preparing the Bincang Sore program script on Radio Solopos 104 FM, one of the most popular radio stations in Solo. This research uses broadcast strategy theory with qualitative research methods and participatory observation as primary data collection techniques. This research shows that broadcast scripts are a broadcast strategy that goes through three stages. First, pre-production, which includes efforts to understand the purpose of writing the script and the characteristics of the audience, researching to find ideas for script material followed by collecting related information, determining the structure of the script according to the duration of the program, as well as selecting style and language based on audience characteristics. Second, the production stage includes preparing an interesting opening speech, arranging the material by referring to everyday language, short, simple, and not long-winded, and choosing words that are easy to hear and understand by listeners and easy for the announcer to pronounce. During production, editing and revisions are also done if parts need to be corrected. Third, the post-production stage evaluates the Bincang Sore program broadcast script, rarely done at Solopos Radio.
Critical Discourse Analysis in the Reporting of the NTT Governor's School Entry Hours Policy Controversy
Authors: Hakim Lukman , Azzahro Annisa Fitria , Hidayat Mansur , Ardhinda Selvira Diva
Published: October 2024

This essay discusses the construction of the news about implementing school entry rules for Senior High Schools (SMA), issued by the Governor of East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), Viktor Laiskodat, on kompas.com. This study uses a descriptive-qualitative approach with Norman Fairclough's critical discourse analysis model. To conclude from the research that has been conducted, kompas.com highlights the controversy arising due to such a policy implemented by the Governor of NTT regarding school entry time rules. In addition, kompas.com also compiles its news neutrally by presenting various viewpoints with pros and cons. The problem context highlighted by kompas.com is processed through a text writing strategy that uses a light and short language structure appropriate to social reality and accessible for the public to understand. Kompas.com also describes assorted realities that emerge with various titles but retain the same theme about the reported problem.
Examining of E-readiness in the Local Government toward Smart City A Study from Balangan Regency
Authors: Maisyarah Maisyarah , Roziqin Ali , Nugroho Rossi Adi , Te Alice Y.C
Published: October 2024

Many local goverment in Indonesia faces challenges in implementing the Smart City program due to limited technology, infrastructure and human resources. This research aims to analyze inhibiting factors and provide suggestions for increasing government technology readiness (e-readiness) towards a Smart City. The locus of research is Balangan Regency, South Kalimantan. The research method involves interviews and observations of relevant Stakeholders. Data was collected from interviews with high-ranking government and community officials, as well as observations of infrastructure and technology services in Balangan Regency. The research results show that limited internet services, inadequate hardware and software infrastructure, limited budget, and lack of competent human resources are the main obstacles. These factors are influenced by geographic constraints, budget priorities, and lack of public awareness of the importance of technology. To overcome this, it is recommended that the government collaborate with the private sector, increase budget allocations, provide training to human resources, and carry out regular monitoring and evaluation of community readiness. In conclusion, efforts to increase government technology readiness towards a Smart city in Balangan Regency require collaboration between the government, private sector and society, as well as increased investment in infrastructure and human resources.
Korean Popular Culture as A ‘Lethal Weapon’: A Journey Toward Nation Branding of The Republic of Korea
Authors: Abidin Zainal , Mayasari Mayasari , Utamidewi Wahyu , Tayo Yanti , Nursanti Siti
Published: October 2024

(Korean Popular Culture as A ‘Lethal Weapon’: A Journey Towards Nation Branding of the Republic of Korea) The crisis that occurred in 1997 was experienced by the Republic of Korea as a sign that today the Republic of Korea has become a developed country. The government of the Republic of Korea took the initiative to borrow funds from the IMF for the first time in the history of Korea. The Republic of Korea's turnaround process was revived from adversity due to the impact of the crisis, which led to a day called "National Embarrassment Day". After the funds from the IMF are in the hands of the ROK government, the next duty is to use these funds wisely to restore the economic conditions. Based on the above facts, the purpose of this research was to analyze popular culture as a process of nation branding in South Korea. The method in this research was qualitative with a case study approach, the data obtained comes from in-depth interviews, non-participant observation and literature review. This research concludes that the crisis is an initial process for the Korean government's initiative to take bold and anti-mainstream steps. The funds obtained from the IMF were used to produce popular culture, which was then used as a tool by the government and expanded to restore the country's economic condition, the government's initiative at that time brought about major changes in the current economic condition of the Republic of Korea, and popular culture became the nation branding of the Republic of Korea.
Synthesis of Some Distinct Curcumin-Based Pyrano [2,3-D] Pyrimidines with Barbituric Acid, Cinnamaldehyde, and Benzaldehyde
Authors: Natania Kam , Susanto Riviana , Cahyana Antonius Herry
Published: October 2024

Curcumin is a powerful radical oxygen scavenger. The modification of of curcumin’s α, β-unsaturated 1,3-diketone moiety can be carried out to improve its physicochemical stability and functionality. This research aimed to conduct a modification of curcumin structure and to study the antioxidant activity of the modified curcumin-based compound. The modified curcumin made from a combination of benzaldehyde and cinnamaldehyde, using barbituric acid and combination of citric acid as catalyst and ethanol as solvent. The combination of ethanol solvent and 20 mmol% citric acid catalyst produce the highest yield of curcumin product which has a yield of 99.3581±0.2873% and was chosen as the best combination for the next modification using different β-diketone compounds. In the following stage, the mixture was reacted with either benzaldehyde or cinnamaldehyde. Yield, TLC, and antioxidant activity parameters were assessed for all modified products and were accompanied by their characterization using UV-Vis spectrophotometry. This study showed that curcumin cinnamaldehyde had a yield of 47.4831±2.7032%, a maximum wavelength of 416 nm, and antioxidant activity of IC50 18.2130±2.8766 mg/L with a molecular mass of 594 m/z. Keywords: antioxidant activity, benzaldehyde, cinnamaldehyde, curcumin, dimedone, modification
Physicochemical Characteristics of Butterfly Pea Flower Petals Steep Obtained at Different Steeping Temperature and Time
Authors: Soedirga Lucia , Matita Intan C , Sidharta Jessica
Published: October 2024

Flower is an important part of the plant containing phytochemical compounds, especially the phenolic acids, flavonoids, and anthocyanin that can be used as natural antioxidants. Phytochemical compounds are usually drawn by steeping the flower petals in hot water. Indeed, different temperatures and steeping times would affect the yield of phytochemicals obtained. The butterfly pea flower is one of edible flowers that brings antioxidant activity due to the presence of phytochemical compounds, namely flavonoids and phenolic acids. Nevertheless, there have been limited studies dedicated to the search of steeping condition of butterfly pea flower petals in water. Thus, this study aimed to determine the time and temperature of steeping to produce the butterfly pea step with preferred physicochemical characteristics. The result indicates that butterfly pea flower petals which undergo steeping at 60°C for 45 minutes produce antioxidant activity with an IC50 value of 251.89 ± 32.02 ppm. Furthermore, the butterfly pea flower steep produced had blue to purple color with °Hue of 277.06 ±2.55, 1.23 ± 0.07 mg/L of total monomeric anthocyanin content, 6.83 ± 0.02 of pH and 138.42 ± 15.88 mg GAE / g sample of total phenolic content. Keywords: antioxidant; butterfly pea flower; steep; temperature; time
Inhibition of CD44 Expression by Small Interfering RNA to Suppress the Growth and Metastasis of Ovarian Cancer Cells in Vitro and in Vivo
Authors: Li Chang-Zhong , Liu B. , Wen Z.-Q. , Wang C.-X. , Li H.-Y.
Published: October 2024

Since ovarian cancer cells express CD44, which causes very strong cell adhesion to peritoneal mesothelium and an unfavourable prognosis, we designed small interfering RNA (siRNA) targeting the CD44 gene to analyse the functional consequences of this inhibition in human ovarian cancer. We transfected ovarian cancer cell line SKOV-3 with well-designed CD44 siRNA or control siRNA. Western blot analysis was used to assess the CD44 expression. Following stable transfection, significant inhibition of CD44 expression with 66.13 ± 4.21 % (P < 0.05) in CD44 siRNA1 cells and 62.01 ± 3.97 % (P < 0.05) in CD44 siRNA2 cells was detected. We performed in vitro experiments including cellular adhesion to hyaluronan and human peritoneal mesothelial cells, etoposide-induced apoptosis, and Boyden chamber invasion assays. The adhesion percentages of CD44 siRNA1 and CD44 siRNA2 cells were significantly lower than those of the control siRNA cells in adhesion both to hyaluronan and to human peritoneal mesothelium. The CD44 siRNA transfectants showed significant inhibition of in vitro invasion and loss of resistance to apoptosis than the control siRNA cells. In vivo study with BALB/c mice was applied to compare the tumour growth and peritoneal dissemination. Nude mice treated with CD44 siRNA cells revealed significantly lower tumour volume and less peritoneal dissemination compared to mice treated with the control siRNA cells. In conclusion, down-regulation of CD44 expression by siRNA inhibits the in vitro adhesion, invasion and resistance to apoptosis of ovarian cancer cells, suppresses tumour growth and peritoneal dissemination of human ovarian cancer xenograft in nude mice.
Exogenous applications of salicylic acid, ethrel and cycocel: Synergistic effects on yield, quality and storability in Garlic (Allium sativum L.) cv. Ooty 2
Authors: Indhumathi S , Irene Vethamoni P , Senthil A , Vanitha S , Thamaraiselvi SP
Published: October 2024

Garlic (Allium sativum L.) is a valuable bulb crop, known for its rich bioactive compounds and health benefits. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of various foliar spray treatments on the growth, yield and quality of garlic cv. Ooty 2. The treatments included a control, 100 ppm, 200 ppm and 300 ppm of salicylic acid, cycocel at 1000 ppm and ethrel 200, 300 ppm sprayed at 45 and 60 days after planting. The experiment was conducted using a randomized block design with 7 treatments and 3 replications. Results revealed that salicylic acid 300 ppm increased growth traits followed by ethrel 300 ppm over the control. Cycocel 1000 ppm showed that high bulb yield and less reduction in quality characters viz., TSS (39.2 ?Brix), acidity (0.38 %), ascorbic acid (11.25 mg 100 g-1), total carbohydrate (39.82 g 100 g-1) and phenolics (4.10 mg 100 g-1) content during 3 months storage period, followed by ethrel 300 ppm. Additionally lowest levels of physiological loss in weight (17.47 %), rubbering (5.13 %), rotting (5.88 %) and total loss (23.64 %) was observed compared to all other treatments during the storage period. The results indicate that cycocel at 1000 ppm had the most beneficial effects and can be effectively used to enhance the harvest, post-harvest traits and quality and storability of garlic bulbs.
Wprowadzenie
Authors: Główczyński Maciej , Wronkowski Adam
Published: October 2024

Szanowne Czytelniczki, szanowni Czytelnicy,
z dużą satysfakcją przekazujemy 71. numer czasopisma „Rozwój Regionalny i Polityka Regionalna”, który jest efektem drugiej edycji seminarium Człowiek – Przestrzeń – Miejsce zorganizowanego na Wydziale Geografii Społeczno-Ekonomicznej i Gospodarki Przestrzennej UAM. Odbyło się ono 7 marca 2024 r. Tytuł tego wydarzenia brzmiał: Konflikty, nierówności i wykluczenie w przestrzeni miejskiej. Głównym celem seminarium było zapewnienie pola do wymiany doświadczeń, koncepcji i wiedzy pomiędzy młodymi naukowcami i ekspertami, stworzenie szansy na merytoryczną dyskusję w gronie osób skupionych w środowisku naukowym, zajmujących się prowadzeniem badań w ramach nauk humanistycznych i społecznych, a szczególnie geografii człowieka.