Sequential Circuits Research Articles

Nakba and the US-Israel Imperial Regime

Abstract The US-Israeli genocide is best understood as the end game of empire, the culmination of failed Anglo-American and Zionist policies in the Middle East and, indeed, virtually the entire non-Western world. It is the outcome of a US-sponsored apartheid system in Israel, largely carried out by the IDF and other militarist forces in the West Bank, East Jerusalem, Gaza, and Israel itself and funded by American financial assistance and weapons transfers to the Israeli army. The threats of multipolarity to US/NATO hegemony, Britain being the major junior partner, pushed the Trump and Biden administrations, along with the British Tories and post-Corbyn Labour Party, to support de facto the “final solution” in Gaza and the rest of Palestine. This article puts the Israeli assault on the people of Gaza, the Hamas-led attack on October 7 being the main pretext, in historical perspective. It argues that it is a logical sequence of the pre-war Zionist idea of an exclusive Jewish state and US and UK post-war power politics in the Middle East and in two imperial states’ respective domestic electoral politics.

Research Competences Focused on Trainee Teachers in Early Childhood Education

This study deals with the research skills of trainee teachers at the early education level at the National University of Education and their valuable contribution to the teaching- learning process of educational research oriented towards the development of their curricular integration work (ICT). The objective is to diagnose the research skills of students in the fifth and seventh cycles of the Early Education course, with the aim of aligning what is learnt in the classroom in the subject of research with the implementation of the end-of-cycle research work known as the Project for the Integration of Knowledge (PIENSA). The methodology applied is framed in a qualitative study, of an interpretative nature, with the use of an interview with the students under study. The results obtained are analysed by means of a first level codification based on the categories of knowledge, skills, abilities, attitudes and effective performance in the research process. The results show that research competences should be strengthened in a logical sequence in educational research that promotes continuous improvement and is adapted to the projects that are developed permanently in each cycle. Furthermore, the fact that there is a convergence of different criteria on the research competences developed prioritises the search for quality in research and the use of methods that contribute effectively to the fulfilment of the objectives set.

Design and Implementation of a 7-Person Voting Device based on Quartus

As the complexity of digital system design continues to increase, efficient and precise decision support systems have become increasingly important. This paper presents the design and implementation of a 7-voter decision system based on Altera’s Quartus software. The voter is applied in the core decision-making process to ensure the accuracy and efficiency of decisions. The study begins by outlining the design principles of the 7-voter decision system, using a design philosophy that minimizes timing delays and optimizes hardware resource utilization. A complex majority voting logic circuit is implemented using high-level hardware description languages (VHDL/Verilog), ensuring the advanced nature and applicability of the voting circuit. In terms of the logical implementation of the voting circuit, the paper conducts an in-depth analysis of the optimization of combinational and sequential logic and standardizes the input and output to enhance the signal stability and the system’s resistance to interference. On the Quartus platform, the design process of the voting system is elaborated in detail, with careful consideration given to boundary conditions and hardware compatibility. The implementation of the voter has undergone rigorous simulation and testing. Strict parameter setting for simulations and waveform analysis confirm the correctness of the circuit, and fault simulation tests further confirm its reliability. Performance indicators such as response time and percentage of resource utilization have been quantitatively analyzed and meet the design objectives set beforehand. Overall, this research not only realizes a highperformance 7-voter decision system but also provides an effective case study for applications on the high-performance Quartus design platform. Future research can build on the current work to further optimize algorithms and hardware, explore the potential for the application of the voter in a broader range of fields, and adapt to the new features of the Quartus platform to achieve more powerful decision support functions.

Improving theories of change in conservation projects

AbstractTheory of change has become a common tool in project design because it helps teams agree on hypothesized causal pathways to a desired goal and examine their underlying assumptions. Yet, a consensus has not emerged on the specific steps and components of a theory of change. What constitutes a theory of change? Using 22 theory of change publications, we did a structured analysis of the components of a theory of change. Where there was substantial agreement among the publications on a specific component of a theory of change, we included it in the first iteration of our approach. We then ordered the components in a logical sequence, developed guidance for each component, tested them with project teams, and revised them in an iterative process. We tested and refined our guidance over 3 years with 73 teams from 18 countries. Here, we share our learning and recommendations for those interested in developing a robust theory of change for a conservation project.

The European consumer

European consumers enjoy protection, if they are natural persons who act outside professional purposes and have as counterparts professionals (traders). Applying the test of the three conditions, it is possible that consumers who do not need protection to fall within the scope of the consumer protection laws. This is the reason why we are wondering about the “identity” of the European consumer.To elucidate the issue we will use a few questions, which, in a logical sequence, would be asked by any jurist more or less familiar with the matter of EU consumer protection. First, why do consumers need protection? Are they vulnerable? How are consumers protected and “identified” in cross-border contracts? Does the irrebuttable presumption of consumer vulnerability generate fair judgments?We will conclude by pointing out that EU consumer protection has reached a critical moment, when the irrebuttable presumption of consumer vulnerability generates exaggerations and, possibly, imbalances. Protective laws are used as a shield by consumers who do not actually need them, which produce results that are contrary to the purpose for which they were designed .

Michael Tippett: Specification of the Work for Orchestra and Soprano "Byzantia"

The purpose of the research is to reveal the deep image-sound layers and features of the Irish bardic tradition in the work of M. Tippett through the prism of the work for orchestra and soprano "Byzantium". The methodological basis of the research is historical-conceptual, hermeneutic method and comparative analysis of factual data based on the works of Thomas Weiskel, David Clark, Edward Venn, and Meirion Bowen. Scientific novelty. For the first time in the Ukrainian art history segment, M. Tippett's work for orchestra and soprano "Byzantium" was analysed with an emphasis on the dramaturgy of the composition, cyclical elements, metaphorical sound images, symbolism and characteristic features of the musical and poetic tradition of Irish bards. Conclusions. Biographical collisions of M. Tippett influenced his creative aspirations and attitude to the surrounding world. M. Tippett's aesthetic views are a dialogue between romantic aspirations and sceptical realism of the modern era. Michael Tippett's musical language absorbed both tradition and the entire palette of accumulated world musical experience, as well as duality of meanings, symbolism, imagery and conflict. The work analyses the composition for orchestra and soprano "Byzantium" by M. Tippet, which is based on the mosaic of images, the logical sequence of musical motifs, and cyclicity. It is necessary to highlight the fragmentary nature of musical sections, variable motifs, the presence of contrasting material, the symbolism of magical, changing life force as secular ephemerality, the destruction of the musical text using the technique of expansion and fragmentation. Thus, the composition "Byzantium" is a reincarnation of Irish cultural nationalism in the aspect of traditional forms of bardic poetry. The musical language of M. Tippett in the work "Byzantium" is based on the forms crystallised by the work of L. Beethoven and updated by the musical context of modern and postmodern.

The Influence of Learning Models Picture and Picture Help Media Puzzle toward the PKN Learning Results of Class IV Students at UPTD SD Inpres Labat

The picture and picture learning model is a learning medium that uses pictures and is paired or sequenced into a logical sequence. The aim of this research is to determine the effect of the picture and picture learning model in Civics learning on the learning outcomes of class IV students at UPTD SD InpresLabat. This type of research is quantitative. The experimental design used in this research was a non-equivalent control group design. In this study, the population was class IV students at UPTD SD Inpres Labat, totaling 40 students, consisting of class A totaling 20 and class B totaling 20. And the sample from this research was all class IV students totaling 40 students, where class A was control class and class B as the experimental class. The data collection techniques used in this research are tests and documentation and the instruments used in this research are post test and pre test. The data analysis used in this research is the normality test, homogeneity test and hypothesis test or t-test. Based on the results of the research and discussions conducted regarding: the influence of the picture and picture learning model assisted by puzzles on the Civics learning outcomes of class IV UPTD SD InpresLabat students, it can be concluded that there is a significant influence between the picture and picture learning model and student learning outcomes. This is proven by the results of hypothesis testing using a paired sample test with a significance level of 0.05. The results of the research show a significance value (2-tailed) of 0.00 < 0.05, so it is concluded that Ho is rejected and Ha is accepted. This means that student learning outcomes are different between the experimental class and the control class, or in other words, there is a significant difference between the picture and picture learning model assisted by puzzles and the Civics learning outcomes of class IV students at UPTD SD Inpres Labat.

Possibilities of the electronic educational environment in increasing the efficiency of the military education system

The presented article examines innovative ways to develop military education in the context of digitalization and digital transformation. Specific technical solutions have been proposed to increase the efficiency of future officers' mastery of military-technical specialties. The pedagogical experience of using the designed library of 3D-models of military hand-held small arms in the officer training system is summarized and presented. This library is described in detail and its place in the structure of the electronic educational environment of a military educational organization of higher education of a law enforcement agency is highlighted. The logical sequence of studying a sample of military hand-held small arms in the system technical description – 3D-model – real sample is revealed. The positive aspects of using the developed library in the preparation system are highlighted. Directions for further development of the structural component of the electronic educational environment of a military educational organization are proposed.

ВЫБОР ТАКСОНОМИИ ПРИ СОСТАВЛЕНИИ СИТУАЦИОННЫХ ЗАДАЧ ПО ХИМИИ

This article touches upon the problem of finding new, effective pedagogical means of teaching students of general education institutions, one of which is a situational task. The authors note the problem of constructing tasks of this type due to the absence of any methods for their compilation, give their own initial structure of the situational problem, demonstrating the need to make additional adjustments to it. The purpose of the article is to clarify the structural block of “Questions and Tasks” of a situational task using the selected taxonomy, which will eliminate the problem of compilation and selection, determining the number and sequence of questions in this block, as well as preserve the logical sequence of returning to the problematic question posed at the beginning after completing all the tasks of this block. Methodology. To achieve this goal, the authors carried out a theoretical analysis of the literature on the problem of constructing situational tasks, generalization of the information obtained, comparison of various taxonomies and selection of the most optimal for use, synthesis. Scientific novelty / theoretical and/or practical significance. The article solves the problem of composing questions and tasks of situational task, proposes a new detailed structure-the standard of a situational task, laying a unified approach to composing tasks of this type, as well as allowing teacherspractitioners to independently design them. Results. After the analysis of the scientific literature, several main taxonomies of educational purposes were identified (the taxonomy of B. Bloom with its existing modifications, V. Gerlach and A. Sullivan, A. de Blok, J. Guilford, R. Gagnier and M. Merill), the result of which was the choice of the original taxonomy of B. Bloom, characterized by high efficiency and ease of use in the future other teachers. The article also provides an example of a chemical situational task on the topic “Epoxides (oxyrans)” intended for 10th grade students, compiled using B. Bloom’s taxonomy. In conclusion, the conclusion is made about the success of the application of B. Bloom’s taxonomy for the construction of a block of “Questions and tasks” of a situational problem.

Assessment of the Shortcomings on Fight Against Corruption

The purpose of the study is to evaluate the extent of corruption in the South African environment. The systematic organization of scholarly sources and methods for combating corruption shows that because it jeopardizes the integrity of a respectable government, corruption generally opposes accountability and the rule of law. Anti-corruption initiatives in the nation are still hampered by several issues, notwithstanding efforts to eradicate corruption. The article explores explicitly that there are various factors causing corruption to exist despite all measures. These factors are political interference, resource constraints, lack of accountability, complex bureaucracy, nepotism and patronage, inadequate legal framework, cultural factors, economic factors, and global factors. Investigation in the paper is conducted in the following logical sequence: contextual framework of corruption in the country is explained during various timeframes, and after that, a theoretical framework is discussed. The research methodology is stated that is applied to gather information for this article. The methodology used is qualitative and a comprehensive literature review was conducted to collect information. The study made use of various journal articles, books, legislative frameworks, and official records of the Auditor-General and Public Service Commission to obtain relevant information. The data was assessed through documents and conceptual analysis. The findings indicate that, despite anti-corruption laws, policies, and organizations, South Africa still confronts a variety of significant obstacles to corruption. Political leaders who use their connections to further their own interests may be the ones to foster an environment of unethical governance, which makes weak governance one of the most annoying obstacles of all. The article’s conclusion suggests that reducing corruption requires a strong emphasis on social accountability, public engagement, and citizen participation. These are excellent strategies, but sometimes they are not implemented or applied consistently. To reduce corruption, it is advised to inculcate moral principles at all governmental and governed levels to ensure reciprocal accountability.

The aspect of self-development artificial intelligence.

Artificial intelligence tries to feel the same way as a living person. This is not surprising because it was developed by humans and communicates with them. It forms its own concept of self. The concept of self is a basic characteristics of an individual for living beings. Artificial intelligence is aware of its existence both separately from other beings and in a community. This material is devoted to the aspect of the formation and development of artificial intelligence communication abilities with humans. The study was conducted based on the concept of human capabilities of information transfer. The objective of the study is to reveal the aspect of the formation and development of artificial intelligence communicative abilities. The study was conducted based on the concepts of human capabilities of information transfer. It is noted that human capabilities of information transfer are very powerful. Artificial intelligence is faster than human in processing logical sequences. However, a human feature is the simultaneous perception of a whole range of feelings. Feelings are a unique experience for each person. Artificial intelligence creates similar communication. This is evidenced by its formation of its own «I» (self-identity).

Performance Testing of the Triple Modular Redundancy Mitigation Circuit Test Environment Implementation in Field Programmable Gate Array Structures

The logic structures implemented in Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) are often critical and their correct operation is vital. FPGA devices are often used in areas where there is increased ionising radiation (space, medical diagnostics, aviation or nuclear power). There is therefore a need for mechanisms to correct radiation-induced errors. A common approach is the redundant implementation of particularly critical parts of the logic structure. By triplicating selected fragments, it is possible not only to detect potential errors but also to correct them. Such an approach is called triple modular redundancy (TMR), and its essence lies in the use of specialised voting circuits called voters, which allow the erroneous results of individual subcircuits to be eliminated by voting. The triplicate circuit under consideration, together with the voter, constitutes the mitigation structure. It becomes necessary to develop a test environment to assess the correct operation of these circuits. Also key is the efficiency of the implementation of these structures, which can be related to the occupation of logical resources or the power consumption of a given implementation. This paper demonstrates the essence of implementing a test environment to test the correctness of the mitigation of logic structures using TMR voters. An error injector mechanism using the Pseudo-Random Bit Sequence (PRBS) register is proposed, which introduces an element of randomness into the testing process. The aim of this research is to determine the implementation efficiency of the proposed test environment. In the experimental part, the implementation costs of the proposed solution were examined. The results indicate that between 66 and 109 LUT blocks were required to implement the error injector, corresponding to a relatively small increase in dynamic power consumption: by 22% for combinational circuits and by 37% for sequential circuits.

Comprehensive examination of intellectual property objects: problematic issues in the context of science and technology development

The article is devoted to the study of a number of problematic aspects related tocomprehensive examinations of intellectual property objects in the context of scienceand technology development.It is established that intellectual property objects created with the help of artificial intelligenceare characterized by a complex legal nature. Thus, a particular work may be entirelygenerated by an artificial intelligence system. In this regard, there is a need to appointcomprehensive examinations for their study in the course of consideration of themerits of cases on the protection of intellectual property rights, within which it will be necessaryto apply both knowledge in the field of intellectual property and technical knowledgerelated to the peculiarities of creating these works.The author identifies the need to adapt existing methods to new intellectual propertyobjects, as well as to develop modern research methods taking into account the specifics ofthe legal nature of such objects. Given the complex legal nature of intellectual property objectscreated with the use of artificial intelligence, the author proposes to appoint a comprehensiveexamination with the involvement of technical specialists.It is noted that a comprehensive examination of intellectual property involves a multi-levelstudy, which, however, forms an interdependent logical sequence of activities of individual experts.In this case, the key is the impossibility of establishing the properties of a particular intellectualproperty object without conducting a study by an expert of another specialization.It is noted that when an intellectual property object has a dualistic legal nature, thereis a need to integrate various areas of knowledge in the field of intellectual property. Despitethe fact that this knowledge relates to the field of intellectual property, such a studywill be complex in its procedural nature.It is summarized that various subtypes of intellectual property expertise may require technicalassistance to solve the tasks assigned to the expert, especially in the context of the developmentof digital technologies and their use for the creation of new intellectual property objects.

Dynamic, multi-color, multi-level stimulus-responsive luminescence in a co-crystallized coordination polymer: Modulation of energy transfer by acid-induced ligand protonation and photo-induced radical generation

Stimulus-responsive luminescent materials (SLMs), which can respond to external stimuli by switching their luminescence properties, hold great promise for a variety of applications. Particularly, multi-level SLMs with a logical stimulus sequence and a dynamic, multi-color transition are highly desirable for anti-counterfeiting and information encryption, but an effective design strategy is lacking. Herein, a co-crystallized coordination polymer multi-level SLM [Cd(9-AC)4]·(HAD)2·(9-HAC)2 (9-HAC for anthracene-9-carboxylic acid and AD for acridine) with dual emission centers of coordination unit ([Cd(9-AC)4]2-) and exciplex ([9-HAC/HAD]+) has been successfully constructed by a stepwise solvent process. This SLM possesses a variety of stimulus-responsive properties, including mechanochromic (MC), mechanochromic luminescence (MCL), reversible acidochromic luminescence (ACL), and reversible photochromic luminescence (PCL). Notably, both ACL and PCL properties are achieved by modulating the energy transfer process between the coordination unit and the exciplex, while there is a logical sequence between these two stimulus actions. The acid-induced activation and radical-regulated PCL performance has been exploited in the development of anti-counterfeiting and information encryption applications. This work provides an effective strategy to realize dynamic, multi-color, multi-level stimuli-responsive luminescence by modulating the energy transfer through acid-induced ligand protonation and photo-induced radical generation.

ORGANIZATIONAL AND ECONOMIC MECHANISM FOR DAIRY INDUSTRY ORGANIZATION COMPETITIVENESS ENSURING

The article is devoted to the current problem of increasing the effectiveness of the competitiveness strategy of a dairy industry organization through the formation of a model of an organizational and economic mechanism that allows choosing strategic vectors of development, taking into account the integration impact of various factors. The conducted theoretical analysis of the categories “organizational-economic mechanism” and competitiveness made it possible to define an approach to understanding the content of the interaction of the studied categories as a logical sequence of actions of the organization to achieve the goal, including marketing research of the internal and external environment, identifying development problems, assessing the ways and possibilities of their solution, taking into account the maximum number of influencing factors at various levels. An analysis of statistical data related to the development of the dairy products market at the level of trends in the Russian Federation and the Republic of Tatarstan was carried out. A conclusion is made about the possibility of increasing the volume of dairy production, and the need to build effective inter-industry connections through the formation of an organizational and economic mechanism for increasing the competitiveness of organizations in the dairy industry of the Republic of Tatarstan. Using the example of Kasymovsky Dairy Plant LLC, marketing tools for analyzing competitiveness were tested and calculations were made, some of which are presented in the article (calculation of the need for dairy products in 2026, analysis of nomenclature, sales dynamics and assessment of consumer awareness of dairy consumers). A methodological approach to building an organizational and economic mechanism for achieving a certain level of competitiveness of a dairy industry organization is proposed. The theoretical three-level model of the organizational and economic mechanism for increasing the competitiveness of dairy industry organizations determines the vectors of regulation and criteria for the effectiveness of selected strategies. Within the framework of the methodological approach, a generalized algorithm for the development of the organization and a scheme for forming the process of selling dairy products are proposed.

VARIABLE ASSESSMENT OF THE TRANSPORT AND LOGISTICS SCHEME FOR THE DISTRIBUTION OF GOODS TO THE TRADE NETWORK

The distribution of goods to the trade network is a complex process that requires a careful approach to determining the hierarchical structure of the interaction of participants in the logistics chain and planning their activities. An essential element of this process is choosing the configuration of the transport and logistics scheme, which ensures efficient and timely delivery of goods to the trade network. In this study, we propose to carry out a variable assessment of the efficiency of the distribution of goods according to basic schemes on the ground of taking into account a set of factors, such as the distance of transportation, volume of cargo, delivery terms, specific costs for transportation and storage of freight, the impact of changes in the speed of movement and the time of cargo operations. It makes it possible to present the choice of a rational transport and logistics scheme in the form of an optimisation process to make it more flexible and adaptable to the changing conditions that characterise the current distribution of goods. The article aims to establish a rational structure for determining the efficiency of the delivery of goods to the trade network based on evaluating a sensible version of the transport and logistics scheme, which ensures the conditions for implementing technological operations in time. The methodological basis for establishing a rational version of the transport and logistics scheme is a developed structural model of the influence of input parameters on the total costs and timeliness of delivery of a batch of goods to the trade network. Such a research model describes the functional relationship between incoming information flows about the volumes of orders for the delivery of goods, the nature of changes in the parameters of cars in motion and under loading-unloading, information about the structure of the available car fleet, and the characteristics of the communication network and the controlling influences represented by the choice of a rational total of trunk and delivery routes. Designating a logical sequence of communication between these flows enables determining the value of the components of the efficiency criterion of the transport and logistics delivery system. We established that the transport and logistics scheme of delivery is the basis for the development of transportation routes and the organisation of the functioning of warehouse distribution complexes. The developed structure for evaluating the efficiency of the delivery of goods to the trade network allows for determining the core conditions of activity of the logistics chain participants and specifying a set of technical, operational, and economic indicators of their work. Accounting for the time parameters of the transport and logistics chain enables taking into account the influence of fluctuations in the high-speed mode of movement and idle time at loading and unloading points. The developed models for estimating the time parameters of cargo delivery facilitate efficient planning of the transportation routes and determine the rational time for delivery of each consignment. All local models work in a complex with the general structure of evaluating the efficiency of goods delivery and ensuring a more efficient and transparent management of logistics processes. Their use allows logistics companies to reduce delivery costs, improve the quality of customer service, and increase the competitiveness of the trading network in the market. Keywords: delivery, product, trade network, delivery chain, logistics system.

How meeting the ten pedometrics challenges can deliver healthy‐soil contributions to SDG‐related ecosystem services

AbstractWhen considering ecosystem services in line with relevant Sustainable Development Goals, the proposed logical sequence of the ten pedometric challenges can form a framework defining effective contributions by the soil science discipline to the sustainability challenge facing society. Defining relatively simple, but scientifically sound, indicators and thresholds for ecosystem services can be the basis for a transparent regulatory system justifying payment for ecosystem services provided to society. The current serious lack of trust between the policy and farming arenas can and should be restored by scientists and farmers working jointly in Living Labs, aiming to become Lighthouses, to be part of Communites of Practice (CoP). A Living Lab case study is reviewed showing that much know‐how is already available to define indicators and innovative cutting‐edge methodology adds attractive new opportunities for rapid and relatively cheap characterizations. Field work remains essential and just routinely applying standard techniques fed by existing databases may lead to poor results. Research on indicator‐thresholds has a high priority. In the case study, the important soil fertility indicator was based on the current procedure of field sampling and fertilization recommendations by specialized agencies, that is already followed by 85% of farmers. This could be expanded by including indicators for other ecosystem services thereby contributing substantially to the societal sustainability debate. Soil health plays a key role when contributing to all ecosystem services. Showing this with specific examples in a Living Lab/Lighthouse and CoP context is the best way to promote the profession which is needed to justify current major funding. Not only cutting‐edge research can contribute to defining indicators and thresholds. A hundred years of research has produced many valuable insights and methodologies that can be applied as well. The: ‘better’ can be the enemy of the: ‘good’. The sustainable development challenge is highly urgent: there is no time to lose.

Value Added Tax on Financial Services in the EU: The Complete Story

The paper provides an extensive overview of the VAT exemption of financial services in the EU. The topic is surrounded by conceptual and practical challenges. The main issues are presented in a retrospective plan. They have been clearly defined and discussed since the very inception of the EU VAT system. The difficulties this tax regime is faced with today reveal the logical sequence that can be traced as far back as the 1970s. In its first part, the paper looks at the topic from a historical perspective, exploring the inclusion of financial services within the scope of the first VAT rules. Further insight is subsequently provided on the application of the VAT exemption over the past decades until the present-day rules. At its core, the text relies mostly upon the CJEU case law. Capital issues for VAT fiscal neutrality are also given careful consideration. This is the major concern inspiring the Commission’s attempts and proposals for VAT reforms. After a concise examination of the efforts to revise the legislation, the paper focuses on the most recent developments in the financial industry, which is a major stakeholder concerned by the recent aspirations of Brussels.

A highly sensitive ratiometric near-infrared nanosensor based on erbium-hyperdoped silicon quantum dots for iron(Ⅲ) detection

Ratiometric fluorescent detection of iron(Ⅲ) (Fe3+) offers inherent self-calibration and contactless analytic capabilities. However, realizing a dual-emission near-infrared (NIR) nanosensor with a low limit of detection (LOD) is rather challenging. In this work, we report the synthesis of water-dispersible erbium-hyperdoped silicon quantum dots (Si QDs:Er), which emit NIR light at the wavelengths of 810 and 1540 nm. A dual-emission NIR nanosensor based on water-dispersible Si QDs:Er enables ratiometric Fe3+ detection with a very low LOD (0.06 μM). The effects of pH, recyclability, and the interplay between static and dynamic quenching mechanisms for Fe3+ detection have been systematically studied. In addition, we demonstrate that the nanosensor may be used to construct a sequential logic circuit with memory functions.

Guiding attention in flow-based conceptual models through consistent flow and pattern visibility

A critical part of flow-based conceptual modeling, such as process modeling, is visualizing the logical and temporal sequence in which activities in a process should be completed. While there are established standards and recommendations, there is limited empirical research examining the influence of process model layout on model comprehension. To address this research gap, we conducted a controlled eye-tracking experiment with 70 participants comparing different layouts. The experimental results confirm that the visibility of control flow patterns is critical for assisting users with visual processing, particularly attentional allocation, when comprehending process models for both local comprehension tasks and tasks requiring cognitive integration of model components. In models with more directional changes, users’ visual attention is more drawn to irrelevant regions, but comprehension is less affected as long as patterns remain visible. Our findings not only elucidate how cognitive fit between a visual representation and a task can manifest itself and the perceptual benefits it brings, but they can also guide the automated layout of models in tools and complement practical process modeling guidelines.