bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bridging the gap between models based on ordinary, delayed, and fractional differentials equations through integral kernels
Authors: Zeraick Monteiro Noemi , Weber dos Santos Rodrigo , Rodrigues Mazorche Sandro
Published: May 2024

Evolution equations with convolution-type integral operators have a history of study, yet a gap exists in the literature regarding the link between certain convolution kernels and new models, including delayed and fractional differential equations. We demonstrate, starting from the logistic model structure, that classical, delayed, and fractional models are special cases of a framework using a gamma Mittag-Leffler memory kernel. We discuss and classify different types of this general kernel, analyze the asymptotic behavior of the general model, and provide numerical simulations. A detailed classification of the memory kernels is presented through parameter analysis. The fractional models we constructed possess distinctive features as they maintain dimensional balance and explicitly relate fractional orders to past data points. Additionally, we illustrate how our models can reproduce the dynamics of COVID-19 infections in Australia, Brazil, and Peru. Our research expands mathematical modeling by presenting a unified framework that facilitates the incorporation of historical data through the utilization of integro-differential equations, fractional or delayed differential equations, as well as classical systems of ordinary differential equations.
Comparative evaluation of antimicrobial activity of spinel structured transition metal ferrites supported on reduced graphene oxide against pathogenic strains of bacteria and fungi
Authors: Lakshmi Priya Rajendran , Dhayanithi Chettipalayam Arunasalam , Hariprasad Boopathi Shagunthala , Vidya Radhakrishnan , Ganesh Babu Sundaram
Published: May 2024

One of the global challenges for living things is to provide pollution and harmful microbes-free environment. In this study, magnetically retrievable spinel-structured manganese zinc ferrite (Mn0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4) (MZF) was synthesized by a facile solvothermal method. Further, the MZF with different weight percentages (10 wt%, 50 wt%, and 80 wt%) were supported on reduced graphene oxide (rGO). The phase purity and morphology of MZF and MZF/rGO nanocomposite were confirmed by x-ray diffraction technique and scanning electron microscopy, respectively. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman, UV–visible spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analyses of the as-synthesized nanocomposites were examined for the detection of various chemical groups, band gap, and thermal properties, respectively. The MZF/rGO nanocomposite exhibited significant antibacterial and antifungal activity against Eggerthella lenta, Enterococcus faecalis, Klebsiella pneumonia, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans compared to bare MZF and rGO. The high surface area of rGO plays a crucible role in antimicrobial analysis. Additionally, the antibacterial and antifungal activity is compared by synthesizing various metal ferrites such as MnFe2O4, ZnFe2O4, and Fe3O4. The 50 wt% MZF/rGO nanocomposite exhibits significantly high antibacterial activity. However, 10 wt% MZF/rGO nanocomposite shows good antifungal activity than Fe3O4, MnFe2O4, ZnFe2O4, MnZnFe2O4, 50 wt%, and 80 wt% MZF/rGO nanocomposites. These findings suggest that the prepared ferrite nanocomposites hold promise for microbial inhibition.
Bending, electroadhesion and sensing performances of single compliant electrode dielectric elastomer actuator based on SEBS gel
Authors: Liu Yi , Yao Jinlong , Liu Ying Dan , Liang Yongri
Published: May 2024

Dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs) have great potential for application in soft robotics due to their ability to undergo substantial deformations, rapid response times, and high energy density when subjected to external electrical stimuli. However, the application of DEAs in the field of soft grippers is limited by their restricted direct electro-bending capability, output force, self-sensing capacity, and pre-stretching requirement. In this study, we fabricated a single compliant electrode DEA (SCE-DEA) which was made by sandwiching a compliant electrode between two layers of poly(styrene-b-ethylene-co-butylene-b-styrene) (SEBS)/white mineral oil (WO) dielectric elastomer films. The SCE-SEBS/WO was demonstrated to have the capacities of bending, sensing, and electroadhesion (EA). The SCE-SEBS/WO can be used in various soft actuator modes, such as the unipolar EA actuator, soft gripper, and soft vibrator. The grabbing mechanism of SCE-SEBS/WO-based soft grippers with opposite bipolar configuration is caused by electric field induced bending of SEC-SEBS/WO and subsequent electrostatic attraction between both SEC-SEBS/WO. The SEC-SEBS/WO based soft grippers have rapid response detachment, and ability to grasp various types of objects. Three-layer stacked SCE-SEBS/WO-60 (with 60 wt% of WO) exhibited 531 mN cm−2 of EA stress on the paper at 3.0 kV applied voltage, and the soft gripper made by four SCE-SEBS/WO-60 can successfully grab wood blocks weighing 162.4 g at 5 kV applied voltage. The sensing capacity of SCE-SEBS/WO based soft gripper was based on the bending strain dependent resistance changes of the compliant electrode. Our results provide new insights into the fabrication of DEA based soft grippers.
Experimental investigations of the effects of bending vibrations resonance modes on penetration into granular materials
Authors: Alaei Varnosfaderani Mahdi , Wu Nan , Maghoul Pooneh
Published: May 2024

Inspired by the bending vibration observed in the biological locomotions such as those found in snakes, horned lizards, and sandfish, we have developed a novel vibro probe utilizing bending resonance modes to study the bending vibration effects in assisting penetration into granular materials. This approach contrasts with traditional probes that rely on longitudinal vibrations for penetration. This newly developed probe was used to experimentally investigate the impact of bending vibration in reducing the required penetration force and enhancing the penetration process within granular materials such as lunar or Martian regolith. The bending vibrations were excited by thin piezo patches attached to the probe’s machined surface without increasing the probe’s outside diameter. This simple mechanism enables pushing the whole probe inside the granular materials. Experimental modal analysis was employed to determine the resonance frequencies of the probe. Subsequently, the probe was pushed into granular materials, both with and without the bending vibrations, by a linear actuator. Experimental results indicated that employing bending vibration in one direction led to a reduction in penetration force by up to 27% while utilizing two directions resulted in a reduction of up to 42%. Additionally, when the probe stopped penetrating the soil due to insufficient axial force, bi-directional bending vibration proved more effective in swiftly fluidizing the surrounding soil. These findings highlight the efficacy of bending vibrations in compact subsurface drilling tools.
Local bit-level image encryption algorithm based on one dimensional zero excluded chaotic map
Authors: Feng Xiaogang , Han Guankai , Yan Fengying , Shen Dongkui , Pang Zongbin , Li Qi
Published: May 2024

The exchange of digital images on the internet has become more convenient, but it has also led to increasing security concerns. Image encryption differs from text encryption, as inherent features such as massive data volume and high pixel correlation make it challenging to apply traditional AES and DES methods to images. This paper introduces a novel local bit-level image encryption algorithm based on chaos. Firstly, a new one-dimensional chaos system named the One-Dimensional Zero Excluded Chaotic Map (1D-ZECM) is designed, possessing features such as approximate global chaos, a broad chaos range, and high Lyapunov exponents, making it well-suited for cryptography. To resist brute force attacks, a hash function is employed to generate the encryption system’s key, further enhanced by using the 1D-ZECM to derive the key stream for the cryptographic system. Unlike traditional encryption methods that encrypt all 8 bits of a pixel, this algorithm focuses on the first six bits of each pixel during the encryption process, as the lower two bits contain less image information. In the diffusion process, the key stream generated by the 1D-ZECM is combined with mod and XOR operations to diffuse the rearranged image. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed encryption algorithm exhibits high security and can resist common attacks. Moreover, when compared to representative algorithms, the proposed algorithm demonstrates better security and efficiency. The encryption algorithm presented in this paper provides a high-quality encrypted output.
Is 3% Eu3+ doping in ZnO unique? An investigative case study of photocatalytic descriptors using multiparameter approach
Authors: Tahir Asma , Jan Tabee , Irshad Iqra , Ganie Asif , ul Islam Zubair , Want Basharat
Published: May 2024

The study focused on synthesizing Europium (Eu3+) doped ZnO hybrid materials using a hydrothermal method, aiming to create Eu3+: ZnO nanocomposites, which were characterized by powder x-ray diffraction (PXRD), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), & Tunneling electron microscopy (TEM) techniques. The XRD pattern obtained verifies the successful incorporation of Europium (Eu3+) into Zinc-Oxide (ZnO) host matrix. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed uniform distribution of ZnO, though agglomeration increased with higher Eu3+ concentrations. The photocatalytic efficiency of these nanocomposites was evaluated by degrading the antibiotic Rifampicin under UV–visible light, where the variant with 3 wt% Eu3+ showed the highest degradation rate (approximately 90% in 90 min). This suggests that the optimal doping concentration for enhanced photocatalytic activity is Eu3+: ZnO −3 wt%. Additional assessments using Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS), Photocurrent Measurements, and UV-visible spectroscopy supported this finding, highlighting the peak efficiency at this specific doping level.
Experimental study of taper shape bistable beam for improved vibration energy harvesting
Authors: Tamrakar Rohit , Vardhan Reddy Vishnu
Published: May 2024

Unwanted vibrations cause discomfort and affect the accuracy of the machinery. Vibrations of low frequency (<30 Hz) are usually inutile. Various researchers focus on harvesting and enhancing energy output through low-frequency vibrations. This paper focuses on improving energy harvesting from low-frequency vibration sources through taper shape (TAP) bistable beam fabricated using thin Piezoelectric Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) film sandwiched between thin copper and aluminium films on both sides. Voltage power output through a PVDF film depends on the film’s strain distribution; hence, in this study, five different beam designs are studied for strain distribution through the ANSYS workbench. Further, an experimental harmonic analysis study for voltage output is performed on rectangular beam (RECT) and TAP beam for both straight and bistable configuration using three different harmonic input conditions, which concluded that the voltage output for the TAP beam is much more than that of the RECT beam, with a much more significant voltage output increase in bistable conditions for all three harmonic input conditions.
Investigation of the resilience of cyclically actuated pine cone scales of Pinus jeffreyi
Authors: Ulrich Kim , Genter Lukas , Schäfer Simon , Masselter Tom , Speck Thomas
Published: May 2024

The resilience of pine cone scales has been investigated in the context of current architectural efforts to develop bioinspired passive façade shading systems that can help regulate the indoor climate. As previously shown for other species, separated tissues of Pinus jeffreyi pine cone scales show independent hygroscopic bending. The blocking force that pine cone scales can generate during a closing movement is shown to be affected by the length, width and mass of the scales. After cyclically actuating pine cone scales by submerging and drying them for 102 cycles and comparing their functional characteristics measured in the undamaged and damaged state, they were still able to achieve 97% of their undamaged blocking force and torque and over 94% of their undamaged opening angle. Despite evidence of cracking within the sclereid cell layer and extensive delamination of sclerenchyma fibres, no loss of function was observed in any tested pine cone scale. This functional resilience and robustness may allow P. jeffreyi trees to continue seed dispersal for longer periods of time and to reliably protect seeds that have not yet been released. These results have contributed to a better understanding of the pine cone scale and may provide inspiration for further improving the long-term performance of passive, hygro-sensitive façade shading systems.
Slow biological microplastics removal under ocean pollution phase-out trajectories
Authors: Azimrayat Andrews Zhenna , Kvale Karin , Hunt Claire
Published: May 2024

Microplastics are ubiquitous in marine environments and can be incorporated into biological aggregates including marine snows and faecal pellets. These aggregates are suspected to be a major removal mechanism for microplastics from the surface ocean, transporting them to deeper levels and the seafloor as they sink and remineralise. However, simple budget calculations, observations, and model parameter testing suggest that aggregation might also lead to retention of microplastics in the upper ocean, sustaining contamination in biologically-productive environments. The ability of the biological microplastic sink to reduce water column contamination has relevance to the setting of ocean plastics pollution reduction targets, as are currently under negotiation by the International Negotiating Committee of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA). Here we apply eight idealised global pollution reduction trajectories, from 1%–100% per year, starting from the year 2026 and ending in the year 2100 to an Earth System Climate Model with a representation of ocean microplastics and their aggregation in biological particles. We find that the global ocean microplastic inventory and surface concentrations stabilize within this century for reduction rates exceeding 5% per year but the inventory does not substantially decrease under any trajectory. Furthermore, microplastics are retained by marine biology in the surface ocean, where concentrations stabilise to a non-zero value over decades. Lastly we find that irrespective of scenario, contamination of deeper ocean layers continues to increase for the duration of our simulations via the export of microplastics by biological aggregates. These results suggest that ambitious targets for pollution reduction exceeding 5% per year will be required to progress the resolution of the UNEA to ‘end plastic pollution’ in this century, and that ongoing microplastic contamination of the marine food web may be unavoidable.
Toddy trees and rice-farms: understanding their support to ecology and livelihoods in Rote island
Authors: Koeslulat E E , Kotta N R E , Ngongo Y
Published: May 2024

The Toddy palm (Borassuss flabellifer, L.) plays a role as a staple food for the Rotenese on Rote Island, East Nusa Tenggara (ENT). Over decades, the national rice-bias policy in agricultural development has had an impact on changes in people’s food consumption, including Rotenese. The study aims to identify the Toddy palm’s changing area, a livelihood shift strategy related to those changes, and the economic and ecological support of toddy palm and rice crops for Rotenese’s livelihood. The methodology was a literature study and a survey with interviews of 15 toddy-rice farmers. The study revealed that farmers did not convert any toddy land because of expanding the rice area. Livelihood strategies are more carried out because of changes in farmers’ age than because of changes in land area. Changing was more on toddy’s product diversification. Toddy-rice crop farming has been proven to bring economic and ecological benefits to people on Rote Island. The decline in sap tappers numbers requires modern tapping technology to attract younger generations. The paper highlighted that it is important to maintain and preserve the toddy palm population/areas to guarantee food security and livelihoods for local communities that are highly dependent on it.
Fostering Food Security through Farmers’ Intentions to Embrace Climate-Smart Agriculture: Unraveling the Impact of Attitude, Subjective Norms, and Behavioral Control
Authors: Nugraha Riza , Wahib Muhaimin A. , Maulidah Silvana , Widya Putri Rosita , Maulidah Dwi Laila
Published: May 2024

Food security is a global challenge exacerbated by climate change, especially in lower-income countries. Promoting the implementation of climate-smart agricultural techniques holds significant importance to addressing this issue. This research investigates how farmers’ attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control impact a certain aspect/area on their intention to adopt CSA practices, ultimately contributing to increased food security. Using the Theory of Planned Behavior framework, this study investigates how farmers’ attitudes toward CSAs, subjective norms within their social networks, and perceived ability to implement these practices influence their intentions to adopt CSAs. Data was collected through surveys and interviews with farmers in Cohen’s table to determine the required sample size. Our findings show that farmers’ attitudes towards CSA positively and significantly influence their intention to adopt climate-smart agricultural practices. Additionally, subjective norms are critical in shaping these intentions, indicating that social influence and support networks within farming communities are important in driving CSA adoption. Further, perceived behavioural control emerged as an important factor, highlighting the importance of farmers’ confidence in their ability to implement CSA practices. This research underscores the importance of encouraging positive attitudes, strengthening social networks, and building farmers’ confidence in adopting CSA practices to improve food security in lower-income countries. Policymakers, agricultural extension services, and development organizations can leverage these insights to formulate strategies and interventions to encourage the adoption of implementing climate-smart agriculture practices is essential to safeguard food security amidst the challenges posed by climate change.
Environmental and Climate Change Education for The Youth to Foster Social Transformation: Case Study in MTs PAKIS Banyumas, Central Java
Authors: Desmiwati Desmiwati , Budiman M Asyief K , As’attohara Budi Prabowo , Damanhuri Damanhuri , Novianti Wiwik , Isrodin Isrodin , Christian Yoppie
Published: May 2024

This study aims to assess the effectiveness of the school’s environmental education and climate change programs to offer suggestions for enhancement in MTs PAKIS (Islamic Junior High School of PAKIS). The study used interviews and observations to collect data for students, administrators, and parents, which was analyzed using qualitative methods. MTs PAKIS is an educational institution situated in a geographically remote region, with a primary emphasis on imparting knowledge to young individuals on environmental matters and climate change. This is achieved by integrating local wisdom and utilizing available resources within the surrounding hamlet. Students are provided with various academic disciplines encompassing agriculture, agroforestry, animal husbandry, biodiversity, and climate change. This educational experience equips individuals with essential skills and knowledge that may be efficiently applied in their future pursuits. The research found that educational institution has demonstrated efficacy in imparting knowledge and deterring early marriage and urban migration. It serves as a valuable foundation for prospective social transformation, fostering improved lifestyles regarding economic prosperity and environmental sustainability. Despite their achievements, educational institutions must prioritize teacher retention for long-term viability since they need help maintaining a stable roster of volunteer teachers.
HEI’s commitment on sustainability issue toward nation building: How Indonesia HEI policies conform to SDGs?
Authors: Hapsari Murti Ayu , Putri Wika Harisa
Published: May 2024

higher education institutions (HEIs), and education in general, are playing a crucial role the discourse of promoting sustainability. HEIs have a substantial responsibility to increase awareness and access to the technology and resources required to build a sustainable future through education. HEIs have a substantial responsibility to increase awareness and access to the technology and resources to build a sustainable future through education, research, and policy recommendation. Therefore, strategic plan policies at many levels are required to be catalysts and key engines of social transformation in order to establish and encourage the best practices of sustainability in higher education. The paper aims to map and identify all of the patterns and characteristics of sustainability policies at Indonesian HEI and to what extend it contributed to the national sustainable policy. Data was collected by searching policy documents on each target university’s website using the terms “sustainability”, “green campus”, and “sustainable development”, “kampus hijau”, dan “berkelanjutan”. The analysis in this research has been limited by curating only the Top 10 Universities from listed in UI Greenmetrics of 2022. The result shows the pattern and characteristics of sustainability policy in Indonesia is still not adequately and systematically structured, Furthermore, several HEIs structured policies in order to comply with Greenmetrics’ regulations. In conclusion, the situation may be the result of the absence of a national-level policy in Indonesia that gives comprehensive guidance and blueprints for how sustainable practices and policies should be implemented at HEIs.
Genealogy of Green Mining in Europe and Asia
Authors: Gea Marinus , Sadalia Isfenti , Absah Yeni , Fachrudin Khaira Amalia
Published: May 2024

The green mining concept is a consequence of the world’s commitment to realizing sustainable economic development. This aims to maintain the availability of natural resources in the future by minimizing environmental and social damage due to mining. This article aims to explain the genealogy of green mining in Europe and Asia, as well as conditions encourage the formation of green mining regulations. This is important, considering that Indonesia has abundant natural resources and is committed to accelerating green economybased downstream programs. It is hoped that this study can become a preference for natural resource management, especially mining, that prioritizes sustainability. Our research used literature studies starting from searching, collecting, evaluating and analyzing relevant sources according to the research topic. We found that there were differences in the background to the emergence of the concept of green mining in Europe and Asia. Green mining in Europe stems from public awareness of climate change due to environmentally unfriendly mining processes. So, this awareness gives birth to environmentally friendly policies in the mining process. Meanwhile, in Asia, the emergence of green mining is caused by international policies that pressure countries in Asia both politically and economically to implement green mining. This shows that green mining is related to the geopolitical and geoeconomic spectrum.
Self-healable PVA-Borax-K2SO4 hydrogel electrolyte for flexible symmetric supercapacitors
Authors: Luan Van Hoang , Long Hoang
Published: May 2024

The self-healing hydrogel materials are formed from the reaction between polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and sodium tetraborate (Borax). The O-B-C vibration peak from the FT-IR spectrum is used to confirm the formation of the self-healing hydrogel structure. With 0.5 M concentration K2SO4, the resistivity of PVA-Borax-K2SO4 material is evaluated by Bode cure and obtained at 4.13 Ω.cm. With the improvement in hybrid structure, the flexible supercapacitor (FSS) devices were fabricated from two carbon fiber fabrics as symmetric electrodes with a self-healing hydrogel material (PVA-Borax-K2SO4) as electrolyte and separator. The electrochemical performances of flexible symmetric supercapacitor (FSS) devices are measured by cyclic voltammetric, charge/discharge, and impedance tests. The specific capacitance of FSS obtained 1.725 mF/cm2 at 0.05 mA/cm2 discharge current. Moreover, the stability of the FSS device attained confirmation by the comparison of the specific capacitance at 2 and 50 cycles.
One-pot synthesis of zeolite NaX from agricultural waste for toluene removal application
Authors: Duy Bach Ngoc Nguyen , Anh Huynh Thi Phuong , Phuong Nguyen Thi Truc , Long Nguyen Quang
Published: May 2024

One-pot conversion of rice-husk ash, which is a huge agriculture solid waste in Vietnam, to a valuable nanoporous material (zeolite FAU type X) is reported. Combined zeolite-TiO2 can be used as Adsorbent-Photocatalyst hybrid (APH) material for treatment of gaseous polluted VOCs. The combination of adsorption and photocatalyst methods in toluene treatment was investigated using TiO2-containing composites on zeolite X support which was successfully generated from one-pot synthesis method with rice husk ash from agricultural waste. The structural properties of the zeolite and the APH were examined by X-ray diffraction analysis, SEM and TGA, while the effect of hydrothermal time and temperature to the one-pot process of zeolite X synthesis was investigated. The ability to handle the toluene of this composite was also studied under humid and dry conditions at a concentration about 1000 ppmv. The results indicate the accomplishment of one-pot synthesis method in creating zeolite X materials with FAU structure and high crystallinity, along with the toluene treatment efficiency of APH materials when combined with TiO2 photocatalyst. This achievement encourages the implementation of one-pot synthesis process to create other VOCs treatment materials.
Effect of reaction temperature and concentration of H2SO4 acid in the unzipping process of carbon nanotubes to form graphene nanoribbons
Authors: Thoa Dao Thi Kim , Kien Kieu Do Trung , Ung Tran Hai , Quang Nguyen Thanh Duy , Pha Bui Ngoc , Phuong Pham Ho My , Tan Phan Minh
Published: May 2024

Unzipping carbon nanotubes (CNTs) is one of the methods to produce graphene nanoribbons. In this research, we investigated the effect of reaction temperature and concentration of H2SO4 acid on graphene nanoribbons (GNRs) formation. By increasing the reaction temperature, the transformation of CNTs to form GNRs is getting better. The results showed that the unzipping process was strongly affected by temperature. At 100 °C temperature, GNRs obtained 100% yield with a purity of +99%C and surface area of 250 m2/g. Furthermore, H2SO4 acid is the only environment for the wet chemical reaction, it doesn’t affect GNRs quality so the low concentration of acid will be utilized and contribute to reducing the environmental impact in the world. The GNRs will be a potential material for both anode and cathode in batteries and supercapacitors to get higher energy density and fast charging properties.
Composites of Manganese oxide/Carbon aerogel from Water Hyacinth for supercapacitor application
Authors: Truong Thinh Q. , Nguyen Han T. N. , Thai Anh M. , Nguyen Kha M. , Huynh Ha K. P. , Nguyen Duy P. T. , Nguyen Son T.
Published: May 2024

This study describes the synthesis of cellulose aerogel using water hyacinth, glutaraldehyde (GA), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC). The carbonization process of cellulose aerogel into carbon aerogel was investigated under N2 atmosphere at temperatures of 600 °C, 700 °C, and 800 °C, using a heating rate of 10 °C/min and a fixed duration of 2 h. To enhance the properties of the carbon aerogel, Manganese oxide particles were attached to its surface through a metal wetting method utilizing Mn(NO3)2.4H2O at a concentration of 5 %. The results indicate that cellulose aerogel carbonized at 700 °C exhibits higher electrical storage capacity compared to the aerogels carbonized at the other two temperatures. The capacitance of the supercapacitor reaches its maximum value when the Mn content is 24.31 %. In galvanostatic charge/discharge (GCD) test, the maximum capacitance is achieved at a current density of 0.2 A/g.
Optimizing the extraction parameters of phenolics and flavonoids from Bouea macrophylla Griff leaves using ultrasound-assisted extraction and evaluating their antioxidant abilities
Authors: Khoi Tu Thanh , Thi Hai Ha Pham
Published: May 2024

Bouea macrophylla Griff is a plant species that primarily thrives in the wet tropical regions of Southeast Asia, such as Indonesia, Myanmar, Malaysia, and Thailand. B. macrophylla leaves contain a potential source of phenolics and flavonoids that exhibit biological activities. This research aimed to maximize the total phenolic and flavonoid contents of B. macrophylla Griff leaves extract using an ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) and response surface methodology (RSM) with a four-factor and three-level Box Behnken design (BBD) for optimizing the extraction parameters. The values of four independent variables, namely ethanol concentration (X1), extraction temperature (X2), sample weight-to-solvent volume ratio (X3), and extraction time (X4), were investigated and determined through single-factor analysis experiments, and their optimal values were found to be 47% ethanol concentration, 46°C extraction temperature, 1/69 (g/ml) sample to solvent ratio, and 69 minutes of extraction time. Under the optimized conditions, the total phenolic and flavonoid contents of B. macrophylla Griff leaves were determined to be 15.83 ± 0.05 mg GAE/g and 88.37 ± 0.23 mg QE/g, respectively. These experimental values were found to be close with the expected values. Moreover, this study revealed that UAE resulted in significantly higher antioxidant activity in B. macrophylla Griff compared to traditional extraction methods. The findings suggest that the extract obtained from its leaves through the UAE could be a potential source for various cosmetic or medicinal applications.
Extracting and evaluating the antibacterial activity of carvacrol from Plectranthus Amboinicus essential oil against Staphylococcus aureus and MRSA
Authors: Thanh Nga Phan Thi , Kim Xuan Vu , Kim Minh-Tam Nguyen , Tran Thanh Truc
Published: May 2024

The essential oil of Plectranthus amboinicus was extracted through steam distillation. Carvacrol, the major constituent of the oil, was identified and found to make up 60.003% of the oil. Carvacrol was isolated using column chromatography with silica gel (200-430 mesh) and hexane: ethyl acetate (100:1) eluent solvent mixture, resulting in a high purity of 98.32%. Antimicrobial activity testing revealed that both Staphylococcus aureus and MRSA strains were sensitive to carvacrol and Plectranthus amboinicus essential oil (20 mg/mL). The antibacterial zone diameters were measured to be 20.20 ± 0.36 mm and 17.33 ± 0.32 mm for S. aureus, and 24.23 ± 0.47 mm and 21.53 ± 0.55 mm for MRSA, respectively. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of carvacrol against S. aureus and MRSA was determined to be 0.5 mg/mL. The minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) against S. aureus was 1 mg/mL, while it was 0.5 mg/mL against MRSA.
Switchable dual-functional optical vortex manipulation via cylindrical phase-change metagratings
Authors: Xu Hongbo , Hao Zhanlei , Dong Xin , Du Yonghao , Zhu Shan , Chen Huanyang
Published: May 2024

Subwavelength artificial engineering microstructures, such as metasurfaces and metagratings, can realize superior optical properties that many natural materials cannot finish. However, most functionalities achieved are mostly single and fixed. The appearance of phase-change materials makes it possible to extend the functions of metagratings. Here, we propose and demonstrate a structural design of cylindrical phase-change metagratings based on VO2, which can achieve switchable dual-functional optical vortex manipulation in the terahertz range. Specifically, by excitation of the temperature-sensitive metallic and insulating states of VO2, the simple two-dimensional cylindrical gear-like structure can achieve dual-functionality for vortex waves with orbital angular momentum, namely efficient retroreflection and near-perfect absorption. In addition, we also discussed the influence of the gear-like structure dimensions on the transmissivity and absorptivity of dual-function vortex wave manipulation. This work provides a simple and effective approach for the tunable and multifunctional control of vortex waves in subwavelength artificial devices, with potential applications in automated device design and terahertz (THz) communications.
Reparations, Abolitionist Imaginaries, and Self-transforming Victims: Transformative Justice at the ICC
Authors: Ullrich Leila
Published: May 2024

This chapter interrogates how ‘transformative reparations’ became part of the Court’s promise to deliver justice for victims. These reparations aim to achieve ‘transformative justice’ by addressing the root causes of conflict, gender discrimination, and inequality that made victimization possible in the first place. It is curious that such a concept, which prompts a much broader discussion on structural change, would appear in the documents of an institution that, due to its focus on individual criminal accountability, is explicitly anti-structural. How did it get there and what is its function? Reading the Court’s wrestling with transformative justice symptomatically, I argue that the very terms in which the problem of transformation is posed—‘transforming structures’, ‘addressing root causes’—make societal transformation seem impossible not only for the ICC but also for the critics of carceral solutions. While scholars have debated whether ‘transformative justice’ is a realistic and appropriate reparation mandate for the Court, this chapter traces its ideological forms and functions and their connection to material relations. By scrutinizing the Trust Fund’s assistance programmes in Northern Uganda, I demonstrate that it is precisely the promise of transformative justice that helps reproduce the status quo. Instead of tackling structural causes, the concept ends up shifting the responsibility for ‘transformation’ not only to local stakeholders but also to the individual victim–survivor. In the final analysis, it is the victim rather than the state, the local community, the global economy, or the international community, who is expected to transform.
Protecting Geographical Indications in Africa
Authors: Schneider Marius , Ho Tu Nam Nora
Published: May 2024

This book offers an introduction to geographical indications (GIs) with a focus on Africa. GIs are productsthat have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation due to that origin. Africa is rich with such products and this book seeks to explore GIs from an African perspective, examining their possible advantages and benefits to African producers and farmers. The authors also provide insight on the enforcement of mechanisms available for foreign GIs in African countries and territories. The first part of the book explores the economic and social opportunities offered by GIs, the legal framework within which African states operate at the international and continental level, and the mechanisms available to protect GIs. The book adopts an Africa-centric approach by using real-life African examples. The book proposes a balanced discussion around GIs, remaining mindful of African interests and commitments. The second part of the book provides a detailed overview of the laws and regulations regarding GIs in the two main regional intellectual property organizations in Africa: African Intellectual Property Organization (Organisation Africaine de la Propriété Intellectuelle) (OAPI) and the African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO) as well as in eleven African states. The book lists the available protective mechanisms and enforcement remedies for GIs in the various African states.
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors: Schneider Marius , Ho Tu Nam Nora
Published: May 2024

This chapter highlights the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) which borders nine African countries. The DRC is a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO), although as a a least-developed country, it needs not apply all provisions of the WTO Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights. Law No 82-001 of January 1982 on Industrial Property (IP Law) currently in force in the DRC clearly mentions GIs under the designation of Appellations d’origine (appellations of origin) and Indications de provenance (indications of source). In practice, registration is more complicated. The IP Law also provides for the registration of collective marks. This chapter looks at the registrability of names, the procedure and requirements for registration of GIs and collective marks, the term of protection, the rights of the owner against infringers and customs enforcement. The chapter ends by looking at whether the DRC is party to any bilateral agreements touching on GIs.
Egypt
Authors: Schneider Marius , Ho Tu Nam Nora
Published: May 2024

This chapter discusses Egypt, which is found in northeast Africa. Egypt is a World Trade Organization (WTO) member. Law No 82 of 2002 pertaining to the Protection of Intellectual Property Rights Law No 82 of 2002 covers the protection of GIs, certification marks, and collective marks. Registration as a GI is open indistinctly to domestic and foreign indications, although specific conditions will apply to foreign GIs. These are discussed in this chapter, together with the registrability of names, the procedure and requirements for registration of GIs, the term of protection, the rights of the owner against infringers and customs enforcement. Similar information is provided for collective and certification marks. The chapter ends by looking at the bilateral agreements regarding GIs to which Egypt is a party.
Infrastructural Frictions
Authors: Houston Donna , McLean Jessica , Osborne Natalie
Published: May 2024

This chapter explores more-than-human infrastructures that are materially performed and reconfigured by the ‘smart city’. We first consider literature that critiques ‘smart’ as a universalising set of urban, technological, and economic configurations that work to smooth out (and displace) the messy inefficiencies of the unsustainable city, and which foreground the intensification of intimate, ecological, and public surveillance along with the uneven benefits and harms accrued through the extraction of more-than-human labour and data. We then consider what such critiques illuminate and what relations are hidden or shadowed? We offer a counterfactual mapping of infrastructural frictions in multispecies smart cities as a critical point of difference. Drawing on feminist thinking about care, shadows, and ruins in multispecies worlds, we seek to think about what catches on the glitchy and frictive edges of smart cities and how might these be mobilised and transfigured by different forms of interdependence.
Reciprocities of Decay, Destruction, and Designing
Authors: Akama Yoko
Published: May 2024

Towns and cities have always been in continual cycles of destruction and regeneration. I dig into stories, practices, and wisdoms embedded in cultures where learning with decomposition and destruction is maintained and passed on. This includes learning with and from uncanny more-than-human relationships, such as spirits and deities that I write with. Being reminded that we are already participating in many worlds because we are all entangled can shunt us off the short, transactional framing of reciprocities. Spotting the symptoms of our disciplines that strengthen muscles to control is the first step towards letting go. The agony of relinquishing intensifies our vulnerability of being interrelated, but to hold on to power can make us ignorant of our own hubris. The uncanny cannot be claimed or known but they can unsettle the conceited, hurried, absent-minded, short-living beings to learn with and from the dance of decay and destruction.
Decentring in More-than-Human Design
Authors: Hendawy Mennatullah , Lazem Shaimaa , Clarke Rachel
Published: May 2024

We present a thought experiment exploring the role of more-than-human–human relations in the socio-political fabric of smart cities and historical political conflicts in Palestine. The site of focus (and struggle) is Palestinian East Jerusalem, where ‘natural’ land protections create inequities. We interrogate decentring of humans experiencing oppression while centring non-human entities at the intersection of land, race, natural, and cultural heritage in imagining a smart ‘just’ East Jerusalem. We argue decentring may create dualities that do not adequately account for issues of power, risking further marginalisation for those on the periphery of existing power structures. We propose alternative framings of custodianship, evoking multiple dimensions across geography and temporalities to reimagine more equitable and emergent justice founded on decolonial more-than-human–human relations.
How Can Anyone be More than One Thing?
Authors: Powell Alison , Taylor Alex
Published: May 2024

In this chapter, we ruminate the consequences of trying to reposition our ways of encountering our multispecies neighbours. We see such encounters as generative, forming the potential for new kinds of solidarity, both human and non-human. In particular, we argue that some of the ways to see, sense, or understand our neighbours produce significant tensions, which are important for three reasons: 1) They foreground the political qualities of ‘partial perspectives’; 2) They reveal asymmetries in the capacity to use technology to recognise others; and 3) They suggest parallels between the challenges of sensing non-human ‘others’ and the challenges of recognising difference within human relations. In an era of climate change, ecological instability, and fragmented human relationships, we reflect here on the kinds of connections that we might model through our encounters with animal ‘others’ in the smart city and consider how to shift relationships of knowledge and practice towards liberation.
Intimate Translations
Authors: Light Ann , Houston Lara , Catlow Ruth
Published: May 2024

The Treaty of Finsbury Park (Treaty) is a Live Action Role Play (LARP) established by arts organisation Furtherfield as part of its ambitions for more-than-human co-living in a London park. It notionally brings together the life forms of the park to agree a future governance structure that is fairer and better able to withstand climate change. CreaTures, the research project which sponsored Treaty, has ambitions to transform the narratives by which humans dwell together, researching the influence of playful encounters to make change. In this chapter, we use Treaty as a case study, and CreaTures as a wider context, to ask what change might be possible in urban contexts if we look beyond buildings and individuals. We ask what happens when creative practitioners translate imagination into intimate actions to consider multispecies interdependence. From these reflections, we draw some tentative conclusions as to what lessons we might learn for the more-than-human smart city.
Six Lessons for a More-than-Human ‘Smart’ City from a Disabled Cyborg
Authors: Forlano Laura
Published: May 2024

This chapter offers six lessons for a more-than-human ‘smart’ city. These observations about computing are derived from my experience as a Disabled Cyborg; a personal experience of ‘living with’ technology. As a Disabled Cyborg, I’m keenly aware of the ways in which categories of the natural and the artificial are blurred. Specifically, I use a short excerpt of alert and alarm data from a medical device—a ‘smart’ insulin pump and sensor system that I use for managing Type 1 diabetes—to illustrate several concepts that are useful for thinking about the role of technology in the world. While these concepts—cyborg, error, labour, energy, data ownership/privacy, and art—might seem straightforward at first glance, they are often overlooked. Since my experience living with technology is existential in that it is literally keeping me alive—rather than merely efficient or convenient—I’m reminded of these lessons on a daily basis.
The King Can Do No Wrong in The Late Medieval and Tudor Periods
Authors: Fortin Marie-France
Published: May 2024

This chapter shows that although the king can do no wrong understood as the king is not entitled to do wrong can be traced back to one of the major legal treatises of the late Middle Ages—known as Bracton—the king can do no wrong itself was coined in legal literature at the turn of the seventeenth century by Edward Coke. The objectives of the chapter are twofold: (1) to identify the understanding of the king can do no wrong as the king is not entitled to do wrong in Bracton and in cases from the late medieval and Tudor periods; and (2) to trace the development of the three notions of this book’s heuristic model—the king’s legal status in relation to law, his perfection, and his immunity from suit—from the late Middle Ages to the Tudor era and describe how they underpinned the two dimensions of crown liability.
Reimagining J. S. Bach’s Goldberg Variations
Authors: Knyt Erinn E
Published: May 2024

The introduction provides background for the book, including definitions of terms (such as arrangement, transcription, re-composition, and adaptation) and methodologies. It provides an overview of the scope and chapter content. In addition, it discusses the structure and style of Johann Sebastian Bach’s Goldberg Variations. In the process, it shows that stylistic plurality has contributed to the proliferation of interest in the piece across the wide variety of genres and media discussed in this book. It shows that Bach’s blending of a newer cantabile style and harmonic-contrapuntal elaboration with virtuosity and dance idioms have invited a multiplicity of interpretations and widespread adaptation in a variety of contexts.
The gendered impact of parenthood on job-related training participation in Germany and the United Kingdom
Authors: Lim Misun , dos Santos Sascha
Published: May 2024

Recent studies highlight the role of parenthood in perpetuating persistent gender inequality in the labour market. We examine whether the transition to parenthood influences job-related training participation. This study uses fixed-effects models and longitudinal data from the German National Educational Panel Study (starting cohort 6, 2010–2021) and Understanding Society: The UK Household Longitudinal Study (2010–2019). Our findings show that women’s job-related training participation decreases following parenthood in both countries, but that this decline is steeper in Germany and persists beyond the early stage of parenthood. Furthermore, our mediation analysis shows that parental leave is one of the main drivers of the motherhood penalty in job-related training in both countries. In contrast, when men have a first child, it has a small negative effect on training participation levels in Germany and no effect in the United Kingdom. This study sheds light on the gendered impact of the transition to parenthood on job-related training participation and how the country context influences these relationships.