bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Liquid contact angle measurement based on photographing to measure the top height
Authors: Chen Tao , Li Linfeng , Chen Jing , Xu Rongqing
Published: August 2024

A method is proposed to calculate the liquid–solid contact angle by photographing the liquid surface height inside a transparent capillary tube, which simplifies the steps of measuring the contact angle by eliminating the need to search for the three-phase contact points and omitting the process of fitting the function to the liquid surface contour. The relationship between the contact angle of a fixed volume of liquid and solid wall in a capillary tube and the height of the liquid surface vertex is deduced, and the liquid surface height is obtained by taking pictures and image processing to obtain the liquid contour inside the tube, which is then substituted into the relationship equation to obtain the liquid contact angle. Taking the experiment of the electric wetting effect as an example, the relationship curve consistent with the theoretical value was obtained, which verified the feasibility of the vertex height method.
Paraxial reconstruction: conversion of homogeneous lens forms to continuous gradient-index media
Authors: Boyd Andrew , Bociort Florian
Published: August 2024

We present a technique for the optical design of generalized-distribution GRIN lenses. Multi-element homogeneous lens designs are reconstructed as single GRIN media via smoothing of the homogeneous lens paraxial ray paths. These continuous optical systems successfully replicate the first-order properties of their homogeneous parent lens systems and serve as starting points for further optimization. When the technique is applied at several wavelengths, the chromatic aberration correction of the homogeneous parent lens is also converted. The paraxial reconstruction, finite-ray optimization, and evaluation of several lens designs are demonstrated.
Range extended SP-iToF LiDAR with time-gated and spatially fused imaging
Authors: Zeng Yinong , Li Chong , Yi Zihan , Wang Ziyang , Zhao Hui , Qiu Jian , Liu Kefu , Chang-Hasnain Connie J.
Published: August 2024

Light detection and ranging (LiDAR) systems based on indirect time-of-flight (iToF) sensors have garnered considerable interest due to their all-solid-state design, high resolution, high reliability, and cost-effective nature. However, the challenge of extending the operational range of iToF LiDAR systems without compromising the range precision is a significant barrier to their broader application. This paper introduces what we believe to be a novel method to overcome these hurdles, which involves pre-setting the delay between the light pulse emission and the sensor’s transfer gates to extend the operational range and utilizing spatial overlap fusion techniques to enhance the range precision. In hardware, a pulsed current driver for the light source with adjustable peak power has been developed to accommodate the varying power budget demands across a longer range. Experimental results demonstrate that, under the same signal-to-noise (SNR), the proposed method exhibits enhanced performance in range error and range precision compared to the conventional method. Furthermore, the designed LiDAR achieves 3D imaging at a distance of up to 120 meters with centimeter-level precision.
Switching in microseconds: design of a 5 × 5 non-blocking free space optical switch at 1550nm with a piezo-actuator and beam-steering lens system
Authors: Liu Yanwu , Odedeyi Temitope , Zervas Georgios
Published: August 2024

Modern data center networks (DCNs) require optical switches with ultra-low loss, ultra-fast reconfiguration speed, high throughput, and high extinction ratio performances. In this work, we propose the design of a 5 × 5 optical switch at 1550 nm based on a piezo-actuator serving as a translating input optical source, and a beam-steering system built of spherical lenses to complete the switching behaviour. An ultra-fast actuator switching speed is estimated as 1.55 μs latency for a single connection with a demo circuit. We further simulate the beam-steering system end-to-end in a commercial optical design software CODE V and demonstrate a theoretical 2.16 dB insertion loss for a single connection in the switch at optimum alignment.
Three-dimensional ghost imaging via the Scheimpflug detection
Authors: Chang Shihao , Liu Jianzhong , Gong Wenlin
Published: August 2024

For previous three-dimensional ghost imaging, the acquisition of absolute distance information is mainly based on the principle of time-of-flight, which usually needs lots of measurements and a large detection/modulation bandwidth product. Here we present a technique called three-dimensional ghost imaging via the Scheimpflug detection (3D-GISD), which exploits the principle of a similar binocular stereoscopic vision for distance information acquisition and can dramatically reduce the measurements required for high-quality 3D image reconstruction. The experimental results demonstrate that high-quality 3D-GISD can be still obtained even if the target exceeds the depth of field of Scheimpflug imaging system and less than 500 measurements are adopted for an image with 128×128 pixels. What’s more, the ranging accuracy of 0.2 mm can be achieved by 3D-GISD at about 1.1 m detection distance for a real scenario. Factors influencing the accuracy of distance measurement for 3D-GISD are also discussed.
Photon routing in disordered chiral waveguide QED ladders: interplay between photonic localization and collective atomic effects
Authors: Amgain Nishan , Mirza Imran M.
Published: August 2024

In recent years, photon routing has garnered considerable research activity due to its key applications in quantum networking and optical communications. This paper studies the single photon routing scheme in many-emitter disordered chiral waveguide quantum electrodynamics (wQED) ladders. The wQED ladder consists of two one-dimensional lossless waveguides simultaneously and chirally coupled with a chain of dipole-dipole interacting two-level quantum emitters (QEs). In particular, we analyze how a departure from the periodic placement of the QEs due to temperature-induced position disorder can impact the routing probability. This involves analyzing how the interplay between the collective atomic effects originating from the dipole-dipole interaction and disorder in the atomic location leading to single-photon localization can change the routing probabilities. As for some key results, we find that the routing probability exhibits a considerable improvement (more than value) for periodic and disordered wQED ladders when considering lattices consisting of twenty QEs. This robustness of collective effects against spontaneous emission loss and weak disorders is further confirmed by examining the routing efficiency and localization length for up to twenty QE chains. These results may find applications in quantum networking and distributed quantum computing under the realistic conditions of imperfect emitter trappings.
M13 bacteriophage-based high-sensitivity Fabry-Pérot etalon for detecting humidity and volatile organic compounds
Authors: Kim Ye-Ji , Kim Na-Yeong , Kim Taeyeon , Jeong Tae-Young , Jeong Tae-In , Kim Seungchul , Kang Yong-Cheol , Kim Moonil , Moon Woosok , Kim Sung-Jo , Oh Jin-Woo
Published: August 2024

Various sensor applications have been developed for protection against hazardous environments, and research on functional materials to enhance performance has also been pursued. The M13 bacteriophage (M13) has found utility in sensor applications like disease diagnosis and detection of harmful substances due to its potential for controlling interaction with target substances through adjustments in electrochemical and mechanical properties via genetic engineering technology. However, while optimizing reactivity or binding affinity between M13 and target materials is crucial for sensor performance enhancement, precise dynamic measurement methods for this were lacking. This study demonstrates the application of an M13-based dynamic actuator in a Fabry–Pérot etalon (M13-FPE) as a spacer for precise measurement of humidity and reactivity to volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The transmission spectrum is optimized by adjusting the reflectance and cavity gap size (dM13) of the two mirrors comprising the M13-FPE, and changes are measured in a rainbow-color-dotted (RCD) pattern using a customized spectrometer. Utilizing the peak wavelengths of the RCD pattern, the change in dM13 is dynamically and precisely measured, revealing approximately 3% and 0.3% swelling for ethanol and isopropyl alcohol, respectively. M13 demonstrates binding affinities of 827 ppb and 158 ppb for ethanol and isopropyl alcohol, respectively, with its low reactivity measured precisely, exhibiting an error of 0.03 nm using the peak wavelength change rate.
Demonstration of a metastable argon laser of 10 W by transverse pumping
Authors: Lei Peng , Chen Zegong , Shen Yuanyi , Wang Xinbing , Zuo Duluo
Published: August 2024

Optically pumped metastable rare gas lasers have been extensively investigated as promising high-energy lasers. These systems employ discharge-excited metastable inert gases as the lasing medium. Following optical pumping, a buffer gas, typically helium, is introduced to facilitate a collisional population transfer to the p2[1/2]1 level, thereby establishing population inversion. To date, laser outputs in the watt level have been demonstrated. However, further power scaling crucially depends on the ability to stably generate high metastable densities at elevated pressures approaching atmospheric conditions. In this Letter, we report a pulsed discharge technique based on a peaking capacitor rapid discharge circuit, which is capable of producing metastable particle densities exceeding 1014 cm−3 at pressures up to 900 mbar. By employing this discharge approach in conjunction with transverse optical pumping, we have realized a maximum output power of 12.5 W from a semiconductor-pumped metastable argon laser system.
Brillouin nonlinearity characterizations of a high refractive index silicon oxynitride platform [Invited]
Authors: Ye Kaixuan , Keloth Akshay , Klaver Yvan , Baldazzi Alessio , Piccoli Gioele , Sanna Matteo , Pavesi Lorenzo , Ghulinyan Mher , Marpaung David
Published: August 2024

Silicon oxynitride (SiON) is a low-loss and versatile material for linear and nonlinear photonics applications. Controlling the oxygen-to-nitrogen (O/N) ratio in SiON provides an effective way to engineer its optical and mechanical properties, making it a great platform for the investigation of on-chip optomechanical interactions, especially the stimulated Brillouin scattering (SBS). Here, we report the Brillouin nonlinearity characterization of a SiON platform with a specific O/N ratio (characterized by a refractive index of n = 1.65). First, we introduce this particular SiON platform with fabrication details. Subsequently, we discuss various techniques for the on-chip Brillouin nonlinearity characterizations. In particular, we focus on the intensity-modulated pump-probe lock-in amplifier technique, which enables ultra-sensitive characterization. Finally, we analyze the Brillouin nonlinearities of this SiON platform and compare them with other SiON platforms. This work underscores the potential of SiON for on-chip Brillouin-based applications. Moreover, it paves the way for Brillouin nonlinearity characterization across various material platforms.
SAMD1 suppresses epithelial–mesenchymal transition pathways in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Simon Clara , Brunke Inka D. , Stielow Bastian , Forné Ignasi , Steitz Anna Mary , Geller Merle , Rohner Iris , Weber Lisa Marie , Fischer Sabrina , Jeude Lea Marie , Huber Theresa , Nist Andrea , Stiewe Thorsten , Huber Magdalena , Buchholz Malte , Liefke Robert
Published: August 2024

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) poses a significant threat due to its tendency to evade early detection, frequent metastasis, and the subsequent challenges in devising effective treatments. Processes that govern epithelial—mesenchymal transition (EMT) in PDAC hold promise for advancing novel therapeutic strategies. SAMD1 (SAM domain-containing protein 1) is a CpG island-binding protein that plays a pivotal role in the repression of its target genes. Here, we revealed that SAMD1 acts as a repressor of genes associated with EMT. Upon deletion of SAMD1 in PDAC cells, we observed significantly increased migration rates. SAMD1 exerts its effects by binding to specific genomic targets, including CDH2, encoding N-cadherin, which emerged as a driver of enhanced migration upon SAMD1 knockout. Furthermore, we discovered the FBXO11-containing E3 ubiquitin ligase complex as an interactor and negative regulator of SAMD1, which inhibits SAMD1 chromatin-binding genome-wide. High FBXO11 expression in PDAC is associated with poor prognosis and increased expression of EMT-related genes, underlining an antagonistic relationship between SAMD1 and FBXO11. In summary, our findings provide insights into the regulation of EMT-related genes in PDAC, shedding light on the intricate role of SAMD1 and its interplay with FBXO11 in this cancer type.
Extracellular proteolysis of tandemly duplicated pheromone propeptides affords additional complexity to bacterial quorum sensing
Authors: Felipe-Ruiz Alonso , Zamora-Caballero Sara , Bendori Shira Omer , Penadés José R. , Eldar Avigdor , Marina Alberto
Published: August 2024

Bacterial interactions are vital for adapting to changing environments, with quorum sensing (QS) systems playing a central role in coordinating behaviors through small signaling molecules. The RRNPPA family is the prevalent QS systems in Bacillota and mediating communication through secreted oligopeptides, which are processed into active pheromones by extracellular proteases. Notably, in several cases the propeptides show the presence of multiple putative pheromones within their sequences, which has been proposed as a mechanism to diversify peptide-receptor specificity and potentially facilitate new functions. However, neither the processes governing the maturation of propeptides containing multiple pheromones, nor their functional significance has been evaluated. Here, using 2 Rap systems from bacteriophages infecting Bacillus subtilis that exhibit different types of pheromone duplication in their propeptides, we investigate the maturation process and the molecular and functional activities of the produced pheromones. Our results reveal that distinct maturation processes generate multiple mature pheromones, which bind to receptors with varying affinities but produce identical structural and biological responses. These findings add additional layers in the complexity of QS communication and regulation, opening new possibilities for microbial social behaviors, highlighting the intricate nature of bacterial interactions and adaptation.
Toxoplasma gondii rhoptry discharge factor 3 is essential for invasion and microtubule-associated vesicle biogenesis
Authors: Ben Chaabene Rouaa , Martinez Matthew , Bonavoglia Alessandro , Maco Bohumil , Chang Yi-Wei , Lentini Gaëlle , Soldati-Favre Dominique
Published: August 2024

Rhoptries are specialized secretory organelles conserved across the Apicomplexa phylum, essential for host cell invasion and critical for subverting of host cellular and immune functions. They contain proteins and membranous materials injected directly into the host cells, participating in parasitophorous vacuole formation. Toxoplasma gondii tachyzoites harbor 8 to 12 rhoptries, 2 of which are docked to an apical vesicle (AV), a central element associated with a rhoptry secretory apparatus prior to injection into the host cell. This parasite is also equipped with 5 to 6 microtubule-associated vesicles, presumably serving as AV replenishment for iterative rhoptry discharge. Here, we characterized a rhoptry protein, rhoptry discharge factor 3 (RDF3), crucial for rhoptry discharge and invasion. RDF3 enters the secretory pathway, localizing near the AV and associated with the rhoptry bulb. Upon invasion, RDF3 dynamically delocalizes, suggesting a critical role at the time of rhoptry discharge. Cryo-electron tomography analysis of RDF3-depleted parasites reveals irregularity in microtubule-associated vesicles morphology, presumably impacting on their preparedness to function as an AV. Our findings suggest that RDF3 is priming the microtubule-associated vesicles for rhoptry discharge by a mechanism distinct from the rhoptry secretory apparatus contribution.
Oral resveratrol in adults with knee osteoarthritis: A randomized placebo-controlled trial (ARTHROL)
Authors: Nguyen Christelle , Coudeyre Emmanuel , Boutron Isabelle , Baron Gabriel , Daste Camille , Lefèvre-Colau Marie-Martine , Sellam Jérémie , Zauderer Jennifer , Berenbaum Francis , Rannou François
Published: August 2024

Background

Resveratrol is a natural compound found in red wine. It has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties in preclinical models. We compared the effect of oral resveratrol in a new patented formulation to oral placebo for individuals with painful knee osteoarthritis.

Methods and findings

ARTHROL was a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, Phase 3 trial conducted in 3 tertiary care centers in France. We recruited adults who fulfilled the 1986 American College of Rheumatology criteria for knee osteoarthritis and reported a pain intensity score of at least 40 on an 11-point numeric rating scale (NRS) in 10-point increments (0, no pain, to 100, maximal pain). Participants were randomly assigned (1:1) by using a computer-generated randomization list with permuted blocks of variable size (2, 4, or 6) to receive oral resveratrol (40 mg [2 caplets] twice a day for 1 week, then 20 mg [1 caplet] twice a day; resveratrol group) or matched oral placebo (placebo group) for 6 months. The primary outcome was the mean change from baseline in knee pain on a self-administered 11-point pain NRS at 3 months. The trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov: (NCT02905799).

Between October 20, 2017 and November 8, 2021, we assessed 649 individuals for eligibility, and from November 9, 2017, we recruited 142 (22%) participants (mean age 61.4 years [standard deviation (SD) 9.6] and 101 [71%] women); 71 (50%) were randomly assigned to the resveratrol group and 71 (50%) to the placebo group. At baseline, the mean knee pain score was 56.2/100 (SD 13.5). At 3 months, the mean reduction in knee pain was −15.7 (95% confidence interval (CI), −21.1 to −10.3) in the resveratrol group and −15.2 (95% CI, −20.5 to −9.8) in the placebo group (absolute difference −0.6 [95% CI, −8.0 to 6.9]; p = 0.88). Serious adverse events (not related to the interventions) occurred in 3 (4%) in the resveratrol group and 2 (3%) in the placebo group. Our study has limitations in that it was underpowered and the effect size, estimated to be 0.55, was optimistically estimated.

Conclusions

In this study, we observed that compared with placebo, oral resveratrol did not reduce knee pain in people with painful knee osteoarthritis.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT02905799.
Very early onset dementias: Importance of differentiating from schizophrenia spectrum disorders
Authors: McCormick Lacey , Bodla Anu P. , Rubin Robert T.
Published: August 2024

Very early onset dementias and other neurodegenerative diseases often present with prominent behavioral disturbances and can be initially misdiagnosed as schizophrenia spectrum disorders. Differentiating a primary psychiatric condition from a neurodegenerative cause is important, because there are considerable differences in prognosis, treatment, and the services required for effective management. To illustrate the implications of misdiagnosis, we provide case examples of very early onset dementias, most of which were initially diagnosed as schizophrenia or other psychotic disorder, owing to their unusually young age of onset and initial behavioral presentations. We suggest how a clinician can differentiate schizophrenia from rarer, early onset neurodegenerative causes of altered behavior and mentation, including behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD), Wilson’s disease, adult metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD), Creuzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD), and very early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. Schizophrenia with prominent obsessive-compulsive (OC) symptoms is briefly discussed, given that OC symptoms can be a major feature of dementias with prominent behavioral components.
Effect of an educational intervention based on self-efficacy theory and health literacy skills on preventive behaviors of urinary tract infection in pregnant women: A quasi-experimental study
Authors: Tavakoly Sany Seyedeh Belin , Eslami Vajieh , lael-Monfared Elaheh , Ghavami Vahid , Peyman Nooshin
Published: August 2024

Objective

The impact of self-efficacy and health literacy skills on pregnant women’s adherence to urinary tract infection (UTI) preventive behaviors is inadequately investigated. Thus, the present study explored whether an educational intervention based on self-efficacy and health literacy skills managed to improve UTI preventive behaviors among pregnant women.

Methods

A quasi-experimental study was conducted from January to July 2021 among pregnant women residing in Mashhad, Iran. To this aim, 110 pregnant women at a gestational age of 12–18 weeks were randomly assigned to a control (n = 55) and an intervention group (n = 55) and completed all questionnaires during the intervention and the 3-month follow-up. The intervention group received the full training program, comprising six 2-hourly training sessions.

Results

Most women were from low-income families (69.1%), were housewives (74.5%) with high school education or lower (63.6%). The theory-based intervention had a significant effect (P < 0·05) on UTI preventive behavior outcomes (i.e., clothing habits, nutrition, urination, health, and sexual behaviors) in the intervention group compared with the control group after intervention, and in their variation from baseline to follow-up in all scores.

Conclusions

An educational intervention based on health literacy skills and self-efficacy could be an effective theory-based intervention to improve UTI preventive behaviors and reduce recurrent UTI and complications.
Relative motion splints versus metacarpophalangeal joint blocking splints in the management of trigger finger: Study protocol for a randomized comparative trial
Authors: Leong Li Xian , Chai Siaw Chui , Howell Julianne W. , Mohd Rasdi Hanif Farhan , Abdul Rahman Nur Rahimawati
Published: August 2024

Background

Evidence supports the use of hand-based metacarpophalangeal joint (MCPJ) blocking splints as an intervention for trigger finger (TF). In practice, finger-based relative motion (RM) splints are also implemented without evidence.

Purpose

This randomized comparative trial (RCT) aims to evaluate implementation of MCPJ blocking and RM splints for effectiveness, function, occupational performance and wearability after 6 weeks of TF management.

Methods and analysis

Priori analysis determined 36 individuals were needed for random assignment to the RM or MCPJ blocking splint groups. Individuals must be aged ≥21 years, and diagnosed with TF involving ≥1 finger. For blinding purposes, the primary author screens for eligibility, fabricates the splints and educates. Therapist A administers the primary outcome measures Week-1 and Week-6—stage of stenosing tenosynovitis and secondary outcome measures- number of triggering events in 10 active fists, visual analog scales (VAS) for pain, splint comfort and satisfaction, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand, and Canadian Occupational Performance Measure. Therapist B in Week-3 instructs participants in deep tissue massage and administers splint wearability VASs. The RM pencil test is used to determine the affected finger(s) MCPJ splint position i.e., more extension or flexion based on participant response. The MCPJ blocking splint holds the MCPJ in a neutral position. Analysis involves a mixed-effects ANOVA to compare Week-1 and Week-6 primary and secondary outcomes.

Results

Recruitment and data collection are ongoing.

Discussion

Biomechanically RM splints control tendon excursion and reduce passive tendon tension while allowing unencumbered finger motion and hand function. Hence clinicians use RM splints as an intervention for TF, despite the lack of implementation evidence. This RCT implements a function-focused as well as patient-centered approach with partial blinding of assessors and participants.

Conclusion

We anticipate that this study will provide evidence for the implementation of RM splints to manage adults with TF.

Trial registration

Clinical trial registration This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05763017).
Identification of countercurrent tubule-vessel arrangements in the early development of mouse kidney based on immunohistochemistry and computer-assisted 3D visualization
Authors: Ma Yun-Sheng , Deng Si-Qi , Zhang Ping , Thomsen Jesper Skovhus , Andreasen Arne , Chang Shi-Jie , Zhang Jie , Gu Ling , Zhai Xiao-Yue
Published: August 2024

Nephron loop-vessel countercurrent arrangement in the medulla provides the structural basis for the formation of concentrated urine. To date, the morphogenesis of it and relevant water and solutes transportation has not been fully elucidated. In this study, with immunohistochemistry for aquaporins (AQP) and Na-K-2Cl co-transporter (NKCC2), as well as 3D visualization, we noticed in embryonic day 14.5 kidneys that the countercurrent arrangement of two pairs of loop-vessel was established as soon as the loop and vessel both extended into the medulla. One pair happened between descending limb and ascending vasa recta, the other occurred between thick ascending limb and descending vasa recta. Meanwhile, the immunohistochemical results showed that the limb and vessel expressing AQP-1 such as descending thick and thin limb and descending vasa recta was always accompanied with AQP-1 negative ascending vasa recta or capillaries and thick ascending limb, respectively. Moreover, the thick ascending limb expressing NKCC2 closely contacted with descending vasa recta without expressing NKCC2. As kidney developed, an increasing number of loop-vessels in countercurrent arrangement extended into the interstitium of the medulla. In addition, we observed that the AQP-2 positive ureteric bud and their branches were separated from those pairs of tubule-vessels by a relatively large and thin-walled veins or capillaries. Thus, the present study reveals that the loop-vessel countercurrent arrangement is formed at the early stage of nephrogenesis, which facilitates the efficient transportation of water and electrolytes to maintain the medullary osmolality and to form a concentrated urine.
A nonparametric mixed exponentially weighted moving average-moving average control chart with an application to gas turbines
Authors: Raza Muhammad Ali , Tariq Farah , Zaagan Abdullah A. , Engmann Gideon Mensah , Mahnashi Ali M. , Meetei Mutum Zico
Published: August 2024

This study aims to develop a nonparametric mixed exponentially weighted moving average-moving average (NPEWMA-MA) sign control chart for monitoring shifts in process location, particularly when the distribution of a critical quality characteristic is either unknown or non-normal. In literature, the variance expression of the mixed exponentially weighted moving average-moving average (EWMA-MA) statistic is calculated by allowing sequential moving averages to be independent, and thus the exclusion of covariance terms results in an inaccurate variance expression. Furthermore, the effectiveness of the EWMA-MA control chart deteriorates when the distribution of a critical quality characteristic deviates from normality. The proposed NPEWMA-MA sign control chart addresses these by utilizing the corrected variance of the EWMA-MA statistic and incorporating the nonparametric sign test into the EWMA-MA charting structure. The chart integrates the moving average (MA) statistic into the exponentially weighted moving average (EWMA) statistic. The EWMA-MA charting statistic assigns more weight to recent w samples, with weights for previous observations decling exponentially. Monte Carlo simulations assess the chart’s performance using various run length (RL) characteristics such as average run length (ARL), standard deviation of run length (SDRL), and median run length (MRL). Additional measures for overall performance include the average extra quadratic loss (AEQL) and relative mean index (RMI). The proposed NPEWMA-MA sign control chart demonstrates superior performance compared to existing nonparametric control charts across different symmetrical and asymmetric distributions. It efficiently detects process shifts, as validated through both a simulated study and a real-life example from a combined cycle power plant.
The patronage of religious tourism seen from its motivations that predict satisfaction and loyalty: The Virgin of Chaguaya in Bolivia
Authors: Carvache-Franco Mauricio , Loaiza-Torres Jose , Carvache-Franco Orly , Fernández-Cruz José Eduardo , Carvache-Franco Wilmer
Published: August 2024

This study focused on pilgrimages as part of religious tourism and aimed to achieve the following objectives: identify the main motivational factors of religious tourism focused on pilgrimages; analyze the motivational dimensions that predict satisfaction in religious tourism focused on pilgrimages; analyze the motivational dimensions that predict loyalty in religious tourism focused on pilgrimages. The study was conducted during the pilgrimage to the Virgin of Chaguaya in Bolivia. The sample consisted of 384 tourists who were surveyed on-site. The statistical techniques used included factor analysis and multiple regression. The results revealed four motivational dimensions: Tourism and Escape, Religious Experience, Belief Experience, and Shopping. Additionally, specific motivations that influence the satisfaction and loyalty of attendees at religious events such as pilgrimages have been identified, among them the "Religious Experience" and the "Belief Experience" motivational dimensions. The findings will contribute to planning and management guidelines for religious event administrators and provide information to academic literature.
Structure and fragmentation chemistry of the peptide radical cations of glycylphenylalanylglycine (GFG)
Authors: Li Yinan , Lau Justin Kai-Chi , van Wieringen Teun , Martens Jonathan , Berden Giel , Oomens Jos , Hopkinson Alan C. , Siu K. W. Michael , Chu Ivan K.
Published: August 2024

Herein, we explore the generation and characterization of the radical cations of glycylphenylalanylglycine, or [GFG]•+, formed via dissociative electron-transfer reaction from the tripeptide to copper(II) within a ternary complex. A comprehensive investigation employing isotopic labeling, infrared multiple-photon dissociation (IRMPD) spectroscopy, and density functional theory (DFT) calculations elucidated the details and energetics in formation of the peptide radical cations as well as their dissociation products. Unlike conventional aromatic-containing peptide radical cations that primarily form canonical π-radicals, our findings reveal that 75% of the population of the experimentally produced [GFG]•+ precursors are [GFα•G]+, where the radical resides on the middle α-carbon of the phenylalanyl residue. This unexpected isomeric ion has an enthalpy of 6.8 kcal/mol above the global minimum, which has an N-terminal captodative structure, [Gα•FG]+, comprising 25% of the population. The [b₂-H]•+ product ions are also present in a ratio of 75/25 from [GFα•G]+/ [Gα•FG]+, the results of which are obtained from matches between the IRMPD action spectrum and predicted IR absorption spectra of the [b₂-H]•+ candidate structures, as well as from IRMPD isomer population analyses.
Knowledge, attitude and practice towards antibiotic use and resistance among the veterinarians in Bangladesh
Authors: Sarker Md Samun , Nath Sanjib Chandra , Ahmed Iftekhar , Siddiky Nure Alam , Islam Shariful , Kabir Md Ehsanul , Bupasha Zamila Bueaza
Published: August 2024

Background

The emergence of antimicrobial resistance is a growing human and animal health concern around the world. When a number of studies have emphasized the Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) regarding antibiotic use and resistance in humans, little attention has been paid to the veterinary sector. The aim of this study was to understand the KAP towards antibiotic use and resistance among veterinarians in Bangladesh.

Methods

A cross-sectional online based questionnaire survey was conducted from August to September 2020 among the registered veterinary practitioners. A self-administered Google form questionnaire consisting of 45 questions on knowledge, attitude and practice regarding antibiotic use and resistance was used. For statistical significance test we used Chi-square or Fisher’s Exact test and logistic regression for factor analysis.

Results

A total of 208 registered veterinarians participated in this study. The study involved a majority of male participants, constituting 85.1%, while 54.8% of the participants held a Masters degree. Around 52% of the veterinarians were poultry practitioners. All respondents were familiar with antimicrobials. The participants (91.4%) knew that antibiotics cannot cure viral infections, while 97.6% believed that frequent antibiotic prescriptions rendered them less effective. Participants claimed that only they were eligible to prescribe drugs for the treatment of animals, and around 80% disagreed with adding antibiotics with feed/water as a growth promoter in livestock. Of the total participants, 87% believed that a local antimicrobial guideline would be more effective than an international one. A multivariable analysis revealed that male veterinarians have 2.37 times higher knowledge regarding antimicrobial use (AMU) and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) (OR = 2.37, CI = 1.01–5.59, p = 0.05). Veterinarians engaged in government services demonstrated a 2.59 times more favorable attitude towards AMU and AMR (OR = 2.59, CI = 0.99–6.73, p = 0.05). Additionally, respondents aged 31–35 were 0.45 times more likely to exhibit good practices (OR = 0.45, CI = 0.2–1.00, p = 0.05). However, gaps in practices were highlighted in our study, suggesting training deficiencies.

Conclusion

The present study, for the first time conducted in Bangladesh, dictates that future interventions like academic courses, workshops, and seminars on antibiotic usage and resistance are needed to facilitate the knowledge, behavior and practice of veterinarians with regard to the rational use of antibiotics.
Perception and practice of the watchdog role among journalists in Nigeria
Authors: Aja Sunday Uche , Chukwu Joseph N. , Obichili Mercy Ifeyinwa , Odoh Vincent Onyaghanachi , Ngene Innocent Aja , Opara Ndidiamaka
Published: August 2024

The watchdog role of journalists represents an oversight function that can curb corruption. Unfortunately, in many countries, the watchdog role is not accepted by some journalists. Existing literature has highlighted the role perception of the journalist and the structure of media work as determinants of the journalist’s acceptance of the watchdog role. This article investigates Nigerian journalists’ perception and performance of the watchdog functions. Based on a national survey of journalists in Nigeria, the article finds that there is a negative perception of the watchdog doctrine among Nigerian journalists, as the majority of them do not believe in the primacy of the watchdog role. The article concludes that, the extent of performing watchdog function is significantly dependent on the journalists’ perception of the watchdog role as an investigative tool in news reporting, and recommends that the journalists be trained on investigative reporting skills to play the watchdog role in Nigeria.
Analysis of Religious Humanized Values in Madrasah Ibtidaiyah Textbooks
Authors: Agus Riyan Oktori
Published: August 2024

The community's wealth of good values is presented in every continuity of inter-religious life, both in educational institutions and in everyday community activities. It's just that until now, various phenomena have become increasingly widespread and this has seriously tarnished religion, especially Islam, which is known as a religion that is rahmatan lil alamin. This phenomenon can be observed by the increasing number of corruption cases in Indonesia involving government officials, cases of beatings of educators and students, sexual abuse of minors, groups of fighters acting in the name of religion, and so on. Of course, this phenomenon is enough material for reflection regarding the increasing erosion of human values in humans. Educational institutions should be able to become a locomotive to minimize problems that harm the good values taught. Therefore, this study aims to understand more deeply how the lesson texts contain religious humanist values, especially the texts of aqidah morals lessons in madrasah ibitidaiyah which contain democratic values, brotherhood values, tolerance values, and justice values. The research method used is library research using a philosophical approach. Meanwhile, the main object that will be studied in this research is the textbook on akidah akhlaq in madrasah ibitidaiyah in the 2013 curriculum by using content analysis in order to be able to find out in detail the extent to which religious humanist values are contained in the subject matter of aqeedah akhlak. The results of the research that the author found in the moral aqidah lesson text which contains features, rubrics and material descriptions are 41 features with the results of the study of 17 features containing 28 religious humanist values. In the textbook on moral beliefs, there are 225 rubrics with a total of 35 containing religious values. Finally, the material description contains 15 religious humanist values.
PENGARUH FRAUD PENTAGON DALAM PENDETEKSIAN FRAUDULENT FINANCIAL REPORTING PADA PERUSAHAAN PERBANKAN YANG TERDAFTAR DI BEI TAHUN 2015-2017
Authors: Rahmani Suci , Amin Muhammad Nuryatno
Published: August 2024

AbstractThenmain objectivemof this studynis to analyzenthe factorsnof fraudulent financialnreporting withnpentagon fraudnanalysis. Thisnresearch usesnfive independentmvariables whichmis pressuremwith financialmtarget proxy, opportunityiwith proxynof ineffectiveimonitoring, rationalizationiwith change in auditornproxy, competencenwith proxy changenof director, andlarrogance with proxylfrequent numberlof CEO's picture. Whilelthe dependentpvariable is fraudulentlfinanciallreporting. Thisnresearch usespsecondary datapthat islfinancial reportpand annual report. Thelsample ofpthis studypare 41osamples ofnfinancialpcompanies listednin thenIndonesianStock Exchange (BEI) duringnthei2015 - 2017 period. Samplingntechniquenused ismpurposivensamplingomethod. Thepmethod of analysis innthis studyouses logistic regression no analysisi method. The resultskof thisnresearch showsjthat themineffective monitoring variablenhas aipositive significantoinfluence ofifraudulent financial reporting, meanwhile financialntargets has apnegative significantninfluence. Changeoin auditor,change of director, and frequent number of CEO'sjpicturemhas no influence of fraudulentnfinancial reporting.Keywords: Fraud; Fraudulent Financial Reporting; Fraud Pentagon
PENGARUH RASIO KEUANGAN TERHADAP PENGUNGKAPAN TANGGUNG JAWAB SOSIAL PERUSAHAAN
Authors: Sabella Adinda , Januarti Indira
Published: August 2024

This study is aims to examine the effect of financial performance of Corporate Social Responsibility disclosure. The dependent variable used in this study is CSR Diclosure and independent variable is financial performance as measured by profitability, liquidity, and leverage.  This population in this study is all Indonesia companies that received ASSRAT award in the period 2018-2019. This research sample was selected with certain criteria. Based on criteria, samples used was 30 companies in 2018, and 29 companies in 2019, with a total sample of 59 samples. The method of analysis used in this research is Partial Least Square (PLS) analysis. The result of this study indicate that liquidity and leverage have a negative significant effect on CSR disclosure. While, profitability is not significantly influence the CSR disclosure.
Kearifan Lokal dan Potensi Romantisasi dalam Film Godzilla vs Kong (2021)
Authors: Untari Leona Dwi , Wuryandari Nurni Wahyu
Published: August 2024

This literary research employs analytical descriptive method to use the film Godzilla vs Kong as a corpus The film, which was released in 2021 and directed by Adam Wingard, narrates a war between two non-human entities that is masterminded by the humans behind a technology company called Apex Cybernetics. To cope with the disasters caused by Apex Cybernetics, local wisdom is narrated as the main weapon and a solution to environmental problems. This study employs an eco-critical approach, using Wildcat’s theory of local wisdom to analyze how the film uses local wisdom as an effort to prevent environmental damage and the potential of romanticization of local wisdom within the film.  This study groups the characters into two camps, namely the empirical group and the experiential group to produce the finding that local wisdom represented by the experiential can be used to prevent natural damage. The conclusion of this study is that romanticization describes local wisdom as the only way to save the environment, even though it requires a combination of empirical knowledge (based on structured research) and based on life experience (experiential) to overcome environmental problems to overcome environmental problems, as well as a tool to prevent natural damage. Penelitian ini adalah penelitian sastra dengan metode deskriptif analitis menggunakan korpus film Godzilla vs Kong yang terbit pada tahun 2021 dan disutradarai oleh Adam Wingard. Film tersebut menarasikan peperangan antara dua entitas non-manusia yang dirancang oleh manusia-manusia di balik perusahaan teknologi bernama Apex Cybernetics. Untuk menanggulangi bencana yang terjadi akibat ulah Apex Cybernetics, kearifan lokal dinarasikan sebagai senjata utama dan menjadi sebuah solusi permasalahan lingkungan. Untuk menganalisis kearifan lokal yang terdapat pada film tersebut sebagai upaya pencegahan kerusakan lingkungan dan potensi romantisasi kearifan lokal, penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan ekokritik dengan konsep dan teori kearifan lokal dari Wildcat. Penelitian ini mengelompokkan tokoh ke dalam dua buah kubu, yakni kelompok empirikal dan kelompok eksperiensial hingga menghasilkan temuan bahwa kearifan lokal yang diwakili oleh kaum eksperiensial dapat dipergunakan untuk mencegah kerusakan alam. Simpulan penelitian ini adalah romantisasi menggambarkan kearifan lokal sebagai satu-satunya cara untuk menyelamatkan lingkungan, padahal diperlukan kombinasi pengetahuan secara empiris (berdasarkan penelitian terstruktur) dan berdasar pada pengalaman hidup (eksperiensial) untuk menanggulangi permasalahan lingkungan yang juga dapat dipergunakan sebagai alat pencegah kerusakan alam.
Homofobia sutil y manifiesta: mecanismos de desconexión moral y dimensiones de la empatía
Authors: González-Fuentes José Antonio , Moreno-Manso Juan Manuel , Guerrero-Molina Mónica
Published: August 2024

Los importantes avances sociales y legales en la sociedad actual no han logrado erradicar las situaciones de hostilidad que sufren las personas LGBTI (lesbianas, gais, bisexuales, transexuales e intersexuales). En esta investigación se analizó los mecanismos de desconexión moral que se relacionan con las actitudes homófobas, así como la relación entre la empatía cognitiva y afectiva y la homofobia sutil y manifiesta. Para ello, se realizó un estudio descriptivo de carácter transversal con 849 estudiantes universitarios, seleccionados mediante un muestreo no probabilístico por conveniencia. Los instrumentos utilizados fueron la Escala de Homofobia Sutil y Manifiesta (EHMS), la Escala de Mecanismos de Desconexión Moral (MMDS) y el Índice de Reactividad interpersonal (IRI). Teniendo en cuenta la naturaleza de las variables y el tamaño muestral, se emplearon pruebas paramétricas. Los resultados indican que la totalidad de los mecanismos de desconexión moral se relacionan con actitudes discriminatorias hacia el colectivo LGBTI, que, a mayor nivel de homofobia sutil y manifiesta, menor es la empatía cognitiva y afectiva de los jóvenes, y que tanto la desconexión moral como la empatía pueden actuar como predictoras de las actitudes discriminatorias por orientación sexual. En conclusión, destaca la necesidad de actuar sobre los mecanismos de desconexión moral a los que recurren los jóvenes, así como sobre las dimensiones de la empatía, como la preocupación empática y la toma de perspectiva, con el fin de prevenir y modificar las actitudes discriminatorias.
Przyjaźń i respekt. Wokół korespondencji Stanisława Pigonia i Romana Pollaka
Authors: Dopart Bogusław
Published: August 2024

This sketch is based on the correspondence between Roman Pollak and Stanisław Pigoń between 1918 and 1968. The relationship between these two excellent literary historians, both students of the Jagiellonian University in the early 20th century, has both private and professional aspects. It also illustrates the fates of Polish scientists in the Second Polish Republic, during World War II and the occupation, and in the period of the so-called social realism. The ethics of friendship and the sense of creative fulfilment turned both scholars into friends devoid of jealousy and competition, content with each other’s successes and honestly congratulating each other on their achievements. The friendship between the professors from Cracow and Poznan was also based on respect to everything related to the university and academic calling. They both believed in the university that lasts and persistently fulfils its mission; both felt responsible for it and for the Polish studies in Poznan and Cracow. Finally, they exhibited strong attachment to the teaching profession. In the relationship between Pigoń and Pollak, one may find the realisation of a comprehensive and complete model of academic friendship which encompassed both the exchange of specific goods as well as personal satisfaction and the preservation of the highest personal and moral values.
Mickiewiczowski ideał wychowawczy Romana Pollaka
Authors: Dambek-Giallelis Zofia , Niewiarowska Dagmara , Skrobała Łukasz
Published: August 2024

The article presents a previously unpublished lecture on Adam Mickiewicz by professor Roman Pollak, O idei wychowawczej Mickiewicza (On Mickiewicz’s pedagogic idea), which was created and given for the first time during the German occupation in Warsaw and then repeated in the early post-war years. The commentary locates this text in the context of Pollak’s biography and scientific interests; it also outlines the connection between the ideas presented in it and the philosophy and ethics in Mickiewicz’s Wykłady o literaturze słowiańskiej (Lectures on Slavic literature).
Z Archiwum Instytutu Kultury Polskiej im. Attilia Begeya w Turynie. Fragmenty z listów Romana Pollaka do rodziny Bersano Begey
Authors: Szarejko Sylwia
Published: August 2024

Roman Pollak’s letters held in the archive of the Attilio Begey Institute of Polish Culture in Turin shed some light on the amount of work undertaken in order to found the Institute. The correspondence archived in Turin also testifies to the relationship the Poznan-based professor maintained with the descendants of the renowned Polonophile: Maria, Arturo, Rosina and Marina. Consequently, the article not only discusses Roman Pollak’s involvement in the founding of the Turin Institute, but also presents his relationship with the family of Polonophiles from Piedmont.