Level Spectra Research Articles

Exploring English Literacy and Communication Needs among New Cadets in Maritime Education

This study delves into the intricate landscape of English literacy and communication needs among first-semester cadets at the Maritime Institute in Jakarta. Utilizing a qualitative descriptive approach in conjunction with document analysis, phenomenological observation, and strategic filling distribution, the research uncovers compelling insights into the challenges and aspirations within maritime education. Document analysis indicates a distinct emphasis on technical proficiency in Maritime English, yet a noticeable gap exists in addressing socio-pragmatic aspects of communication. Phenomenological observation reveals a spectrum of cadet engagement levels, prompting a critical re-evaluation of pedagogical strategies. Strategic filling distribution brings to light a disparity between perceived theoretical relevance and the practical application of English, advocating for a more scenario-based approach to language learning. The implications underscore the necessity for a paradigm shift in curriculum development and pedagogical practices. Recommendations propose curricular enhancement, pedagogical innovation, and industry collaboration to align educational objectives with the dynamic demands of the maritime sector. In conclusion, this research functions as a catalyst for transformative change in maritime language education, urging stakeholders to navigate towards a more comprehensive, industry-oriented approach that equips cadets with the nuanced proficiency demanded by real-world maritime scenarios

Abstract P512: Associations of Serum Insulin-Like Growth Factor (IGF)-1 Levels With Cognitive Function and Atherosclerosis in a Japanese General Population: The Tanushimaru Study

Background: Insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1 is a peptide hormone implicated in insulin sensitivity and anti-inflammatory. However, there is limited exploration of the association of serum IGF-1 levels with cognitive function and atherosclerosis. This study aimed to investigate the association between serum IGF-1 levels and cognitive function, as well as carotid atherosclerosis in a general population. Methods: In 1,345 participants (544 men; mean age, 68.7 (11.3) years) recruited from the Tanushimaru cohort, we measured their serum IGF-1 levels and evaluated cognitive function using mini-mental state examination (MMSE) and atherosclerosis through carotid intima-media thickness (IMT). Linear regression models were utilized to analyze the association between quartiles of serum IGF-1 levels and MMSE scores, as well as IMT, continuous dependent variables. We also visualized the continuous associations using restricted cubic spline models. Two-sided statistical significance was defined as p <0.05. All statistical analyses were performed using the SAS system (Release 9.4, SAS Institute, Cary, NC, USA). Results: The mean serum IGF-1 level was 96.6 (30.2) ng/ml. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that the highest quartile of serum IGF-1 levels showed a statistically significant association with higher MMSE scores (p=0.0019), and the third quartile also reached statistical significance (p=0.0006) compared to the lowest. We observed a positive association between serum IGF-1 levels and MMSE scores, even when exploring the full spectrum of serum IGF-1 levels with their spline terms (Figure). In contrast, serum IGF-1 levels did not exhibit a significant association with IMT measurements. Conclusion: High serum IGF-1 levels were associated with higher cognitive function, while no significant association was observed with carotid atherosclerosis. Our findings suggest that IGF-1 levels may play a role in preserving cognitive function, potentially distinct from its role in atherosclerosis.

Need Analysis of English Conversation for Hawkers in Mandalika Special Economic Zone, West Nusa Tenggara

The research aimed to investigate the English proficiency level, what English conversation materials are needed, and what obstacles hawkers face in Mandalika Special Economy Zone when communicating with foreign tourists. This study utilizes a qualitative research paradigm with a descriptive approach; this study paints a comprehensive picture of the language abilities of Mandalika's hawkers, the materials of English conversation needed by hawkers, and the hawkers' obstacles when communicating with foreign tourists. Methods of collecting data consist of interviews, documentation, and observation. Some steps to analyze the data collected are data condensation, data display, verification, concluding, and data validity. Findings reveal a diverse spectrum of English proficiency levels among hawkers, ranging in primary and intermediate proficiency levels. Specifically, from 20 hawkers as research subjects, 13 hawkers exhibit a basic level of proficiency, while seven hawkers demonstrate intermediate-level skills. The assessment of English proficiency level is based on three crucial aspects that the hawkers always use namely understanding of English communication, non-verbal communication strategies employed by the hawkers, and vocabulary usage. These materials vary depending on the type of goods hawkers sell, highlighting the importance of tailored language resources. This research found 4 (four) crucial materials or topics to be mastered when communicating with foreign tourists: greetings and welcoming, describing specialties, providing personal/additional information, and discussing prices and payment. Additionally, the research uncovers obstacles faced by hawkers in their communication with foreign tourists. These challenges encompass hawkers' difficulty in explaining products, the low English proficiency of most Hawkers, and also language and vocabulary constraints of hawkers.

Two-Case Study of Rural Migrant TVET Female Students in Western China: Aspirations of Learning English

This study is an investigation of the English language learning aspirations and deprivations of female rural migrant youth in technical and vocational education and training (TVET) schools in two locales in western China. This study adopted basic interpretive research focused on individual voices and experiences. The capability approach provided the conceptual framework. Participants in this research primarily aspired to learn English for instrumental purposes: to pass exams, earn higher degrees, find better jobs in cities, and support their children in learning English. A lack of English proficiency, economic situation, and living environment greatly limited their aspirations. Participants showed a spectrum of levels of aspirations of English learning. For participants with low levels of English proficiency, their English could neither support their educational and employment goals nor inspire them for greater future plans. Participants from the TVET–university joint program formulated a stronger and wider range of aspirations when compared to those encapsulated in secondary TVET. Recommendations include increasing opportunities for exposure to English, reforming exam-oriented English learning, enriching the prevailing culture of learning and the perceived value and social uses of English, increasing TVET school and university cooperation, and adapting the TVET English curriculum to economic imperatives.

Network of nearshore protected areas provides important benefits to lake whitefish in the Apostle Islands region of Lake Superior

Aquatic protected areas are commonly used for fish conservation, restoration, and management and a spectrum of protection levels exist in the Great Lakes. Using fishery-independent survey data over 43 years, we evaluated whether lake whitefish (Coregonus clupeaformis) population dynamics differed among nearshore partially protected areas (PPAs; commercial fishing prohibited or severely limited), offshore no-take refuges, and unprotected areas in the Apostle Islands region of Lake Superior. Lake whitefish biomass and recruitment to the spawning stock increased at faster rates in nearshore PPAs and offshore refuges than unprotected areas during the initial phase after protected areas were established (1980–2000). Recruitment and biomass stabilized in all management areas in the post-rebuild phase (2002–2022), and mortality was lower in the nearshore PPAs. Mean size of adults decreased within protected areas as abundance increased but not in unprotected areas, suggesting a density-dependent growth response and spillover to the fishing grounds, which was reflected in commercial catch rates. However, nearshore PPAs still harbored larger, faster-growing, and earlier-maturing lake whitefish, likely due to underlying habitat differences. Tag recaptures indicated greater minimum distances traveled near an offshore refuge compared to a nearshore PPA, suggesting habitat gradients may influence boundary porosity. PPAs provided protection and benefits for lake whitefish in areas of higher vulnerability where ceasing all fishing was not reasonable. Great Lakes managers should consider implementing networks of protected areas across multiple habitats as tools for conserving spawning biomass, maintaining diverse population demographics, and preserving portfolio effects to enhance recruitment and population stability.

Temperature and density dependence of Kr L-shell spectrum in hot dense plasmas

Kr L-shell spectroscopy modeling results are discussed in this paper, focusing on the n = 4 to n = 2 line transitions of Be- and Li-like Kr ions. Collisional radiative atomic kinetic and Stark-broadened spectral line shape calculations show electron temperature Te and density ne sensitivity in the spectrum. The combination of the Te dependence due to the relative intensity of Be-like to Li-like line emissions in the range from 1.5 to 3 keV and the ne sensitivity from the Stark broadening effect on the line shapes in the range from 5×1023 to 2×1024/ cc results in a spectrum that can be employed to diagnose Te and ne. Two different collisional radiative atomic kinetic models i.e., Prismspect [J. J. MacFarlane, et al., Int. Fusion Sci. Appl. Conf. Proc. 457 (2003)] and ABAKO [Florido, et al., PRE, 80, 056402 (2009)] produce similar results in level populations and spectra. In x-ray spectroscopy of implosion cores, this Kr L-shell spectrum may prove useful in an intermediate Te range in which Ar is too ionized for its K-shell to be of diagnostic value and Kr is not ionized enough for its K-shell emission to be useful.

An overview of aeroacoustics-related analyses for the Artemis-I mission

To improve noise scaling laws for rockets and heated, supersonic jets, this paper discusses jet aeroacoustics-related scalings for the Space Launch System (SLS). Data from four measurement stations at the Artemis-I launch, located 1.4–1.8 km from the launchpad, are used in the analysis. First, SLS maximum overall sound pressure levels are compared against other rocket noise measurements at the same scaled distance using effective nozzle diameter. Second, Strouhal number frequency-scaling is used to compare the one-third-octave sound pressure and power level spectra with other jets and rockets. Third, the Oertel convective Mach number is used to interpret a maximum directivity angle of 60°–70°. Finally, SLS’s acoustic efficiency is evaluated relative to that of other rockets.

Mass, Spectroscopy, and Two-Neutron Decay of ^{16}Be.

The structure and decay of the most neutron-rich beryllium isotope, ^{16}Be, has been investigated following proton knockout from a high-energy ^{17}B beam. Two relatively narrow resonances were observed for the first time, with energies of 0.84(3) and 2.15(5)MeV above the two-neutron decay threshold and widths of 0.32(8) and 0.95(15)MeV, respectively. These were assigned to be the ground (J^{π}=0^{+}) and first excited (2^{+}) state, with E_{x}=1.31(6) MeV. The mass excess of ^{16}Be was thus deduced to be 56.93(13)MeV, some 0.5MeV more bound than the only previous measurement. Both states were observed to decay by direct two-neutron emission. Calculations incorporating the evolution of the wave function during the decay as a genuine three-body process reproduced the principal characteristics of the neutron-neutron energy spectra for both levels, indicating that the ground state exhibits a strong spatially compact dineutron component, while the 2^{+} level presents a far more diffuse neutron-neutron distribution.

Finite-temperature vibronic spectra from the split-operator coherence thermofield dynamics.

We present a numerically exact approach for evaluating vibrationally resolved electronic spectra at finite temperatures using the coherence thermofield dynamics. In this method, which avoids implementing an algorithm for solving the von Neumann equation for coherence, the thermal vibrational ensemble is first mapped to a pure-state wavepacket in an augmented space, and this wavepacket is then propagated by solving the standard, zero-temperature Schrödinger equation with the split-operator Fourier method. We show that the finite-temperature spectra obtained with the coherence thermofield dynamics in a Morse potential agree exactly with those computed by Boltzmann-averaging the spectra of individual vibrational levels. Because the split-operator thermofield dynamics on a full tensor-product grid is restricted to low-dimensional systems, we briefly discuss how the accessible dimensionality can be increased by various techniques developed for the zero-temperature split-operator Fourier method.

Transfer doping of epitaxial graphene on SiC(0001) using Cs

Control of the charge carrier concentration is essential for applications of graphene. Here, we demonstrate the doping of epitaxial graphene on SiC(0001) via charge transfer from an adsorbed layer of Cs atoms with sub-monolayer coverage. The electronic structure of the graphene is analyzed using x-ray and angle-resolved photoelectron spectroscopy. In H-intercalated, quasi-freestanding monolayer graphene (QFMLG), the Dirac point can be tuned continuously from p-type to strong n-type doping. For strong n-type doping, analysis of the core level binding energies implies a deviation from a rigid band shift. This might be explained by an increased screening of the atomic core potential due to the higher number of charge carriers per C atom in the graphene layer. Furthermore, charge transfer into the SiC substrate leads to a change in band bending at the SiC/QFMLG interface, which saturates into a flat band scenario at higher Cs coverage. An analysis of the Fermi surfaces suggests an increasing electron-phonon-coupling in strongly doped QFMLG. In monolayer graphene (MLG), which is intrinsically n-type doped due to the presence of the buffer layer at the SiC interface, n-type doping can be enhanced by Cs evaporation in a similar fashion. In contrast to QFMLG, core level spectra and Dirac cone position in MLG apparently show a rigid band shift even for very high doping, emphasizing the importance of the substrate.

Enhanced Sensitivity in Optical Sensors through Self-Image Theory and Graphene Oxide Coating

This paper presents an approach to enhancing sensitivity in optical sensors by integrating self-image theory and graphene oxide coating. The sensor is specifically engineered to quantitatively assess glucose concentrations in aqueous solutions that simulate the spectrum of glucose levels typically encountered in human saliva. Prior to sensor fabrication, the theoretical self-image points were rigorously validated using Multiphysics COMSOL 6.0 software. Subsequently, the sensor was fabricated to a length corresponding to the second self-image point (29.12 mm) and coated with an 80 µm/mL graphene oxide film using the Layer-by-Layer technique. The sensor characterization in refractive index demonstrated a wavelength sensitivity of 200 ± 6 nm/RIU. Comparative evaluations of uncoated and graphene oxide-coated sensors applied to measure glucose in solutions ranging from 25 to 200 mg/dL showed an eightfold sensitivity improvement with one bilayer of Polyethyleneimine/graphene. The final graphene oxide-based sensor exhibited a sensitivity of 10.403 ± 0.004 pm/(mg/dL) and demonstrated stability with a low standard deviation of 0.46 pm/min and a maximum theoretical resolution of 1.90 mg/dL.

Pinch force sense test–retest reliability evaluation using contralateral force matching task

A high test–retest reliability in measurement of pinch force sense is required to assess a clinical parameter accurately over a longitudinal study. Ipsilateral reproduction (IR) task and contralateral matching (CM) task have commonly been used for the assessment of force sense. To date, there has been little research on the test–retest reliability of pinch force sense utilizing the contralateral force matching task. This research aimed to explore this phenomenon across a spectrum of reference force levels (10, 30, and 50 percent maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC)) using a contralateral matching task. Every participant in the study was tested twice by the same skilled experts, with each session separated by one week. Although normalized variable error indicated a poor level of reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) = − 0.25 to 0.05) for these force sense tests, normalized constant error (ICC = 0.76–0.85) and normalized absolute error (ICC = 0.61–0.81) results indicated a fair to good of reliability. The lower bound of 95% CI of ICC for NAE and NCE indicated fair test–retest reliability (0.41–0.69). These findings suggest that investigators can reasonably obtain a fair to good test–retest reliability when investigating pinch force sense using the contralateral matching task. The Bland–Altman plots, SEM, and MDD95% were lower at these lower reference force level (10% MVIC) compared to the level of higher reference forces (30% and 50% MVIC). Therefore, when the reference force level increases, the participant needs a larger NAE or NCE decrease to show that their pinch force sense has indeed improved.

Iron oxide nanoparticles produced by the laser ablation technique and analyzed by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy

The study of iron nanoparticles is one of the most researched areas in recent times due to the potential applications they have and because the study of iron by XPS is one of the most debated elements. In this work, we provide investigation data of iron oxide nanoparticles produced using the laser ablation technique, which were characterized using x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Survey spectra, C 1s, O 1s, and Fe 2p core levels spectra were acquired. Results showed the presence of Fe+3 and Fe+2 elements that constitute hematite and magnetite with differences in their concentrations depending on the fitting method. In addition, the presence of adventitious carbon and carbon from impurities was detected.

Mechanical and Electrical Properties of 3D‐Printed Highly Conductive Reduced Graphene Oxide/Polylactic Acid Composite

A conductive network of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) overlaying on a lightweight polymeric scaffold can offer notable electrical properties while maintaining the same mechanical properties as a similar feature without rGO layer. However, conventional methods are unable to produce customized architecture with controllable electronic and mechanical properties. Herein, a simple methodology for preparing objects of complex geometries by 3D printing that possesses the capability to exhibit a diverse spectrum of conductivity levels depending upon the dip‐coating process is reported. The versatile two‐step process is beneficial to create highly conductive objects as low as 100 Ω sq−1 and lightweight rGO networks. Alternative to inkjet printing and direct fluid dispensing methods, the fabrication method for 3D rGO networks provides the opportunity to combine material selection and advanced printing techniques, thus achieving desired performance criteria at a low cost. Simple fabrication techniques for robust 3D rGO networks hold promise for designing objects with unique properties, offering both high resistance to external mechanical force and uniform internal electronic properties.

Cluster Mo2C deposited on graphene nanowalls by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy

Molybdenum deposited on carbon graphene nanowalls was characterized by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy with an Al Kα (1486.6 eV) excitation source. The sample was fixed to a stainless-steel sample holder with copper double-sided adhesive tape. Survey spectrum, C 1s, O 1s, Si 2p, and Mo 3d core levels spectra were acquired.

D-Mon: A Transmon with Strong Anharmonicity Based on Planar c-Axis Tunneling Junction between d-Wave and s-Wave Superconductors.

We propose a novel qubit architecture based on a planar c-axis Josephson junction between a thin flake d-wave superconductor, such as a high-T_{c} cuprate Bi_{2}Sr_{2}CaCu_{2}O_{8+x}, and a conventional s-wave superconductor. When operated in the transmon regime the device-that we call "d mon"-becomes insensitive to offset charge fluctuations and, importantly, exhibits at the same time energy level spectrum with strong anharmonicity that is widely tunable through the device geometry and applied magnetic flux. Crucially, unlike previous qubit designs based on d-wave superconductors the proposed device operates in a regime where quasiparticles are fully gapped and can be therefore expected to achieve long coherence times.

Process investigation of ion sorption of complex compounds made by chromium, zinc, nickel and cobalt contained in wastewater bentonite clay

This article outlines the outcomes of laboratory investigations focusing on the sorption behavior of Cr (III, VI), Zn, Ni, and Co on bentonite. The study encompasses a broad spectrum of solution pH levels and sortable component concentrations, aiming to unveil the states of micro-components in aqueous solutions. The research also addresses the identification of optimal chemical concentration conditions and the establishment of a sorption mechanism for these components on clay adsorbents based on bentonite. In aqueous solutions, the ions of these metals undergo hydrolysis, resulting in the formation of complex compounds. The study discerns that the sorption process on bentonite clays predominantly initiates at pH levels around 4-5 and concludes at pH exceeding 7.5-10. These findings shed light on the critical pH ranges where sorption reactions are most significant and highlight the cessation of sorption at elevated pH levels. The research contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the sorption dynamics between bentonite and metal ions, emphasizing the pH-dependent nature of these interactions. By identifying the optimal conditions for sorption and elucidating the underlying mechanisms, this study offers valuable insights into leveraging bentonite clay as an effective adsorbent for the removal of Cr (III, VI), Zn, Ni, and Co from aqueous solutions.

Set a Goal for Yourself? A Model and Field Experiment With Gig Workers

On-demand service platforms are interested in having gig workers use self-set, nonbinding performance goals to improve efforts and performance. To examine the effects of such self-set goal mechanisms, we build a behavioral model, derive theoretical results and testable hypotheses, and conduct a field experiment using a large gig platform for food delivery. Our model analysis finds that individual workers’ optimal self-set goals may exhibit a spectrum of difficulty levels, ranging from trivial to impossible, depending on workers’ reference-dependent utility coefficients and self-control cost. Moreover, workers’ efforts are higher with properly set goals rather than no-goals. Consistently, our experimental data show significant treatment effects of self-goal setting, and a causal tree algorithm identifies subgroups who are mostly motivated by self-set goals. Furthermore, our study compares two common types of performance metrics for goal setting: the number of completed orders and total revenue. Our model suggests different cases of effort and performance improvement for the two goal types. The experimental data suggests that both goal types improve efforts equally but lead to different attainment rates. Specifically, the goal attainment rate is lower for the revenue-goal treatment than for the order-quantity-goal treatment. Further analysis reveals that this disparity is due to workers setting excessively high revenue goals. Our study demonstrates the efficacy and limitations of self-goal-setting mechanisms and yields two important managerial implications. First, the implementation of self-goal-setting mechanisms could improve gig workers’ efforts and performance. Second, encouraging order-quantity goals instead of revenue goals could help gig workers achieve higher attainment rates.

Chemistries and materials for atmospheric water harvesting.

Atmospheric water harvesting (AWH) is recognized as a crucial strategy to address the global challenge of water scarcity by tapping into the vast reserves of atmospheric moisture for potable water supply. Within this domain, sorbents lie in the core of AWH technologies as they possess broad adaptability across a wide spectrum of humidity levels, underpinned by the cyclic sorption and desorption processes of sorbents, necessitating a multi-scale viewpoint regarding the rational material and chemical selection and design. This Invited Review delves into the essential sorption mechanisms observed across various classes of sorbent systems, emphasizing the water-sorbent interactions and the progression of water networks. A special focus is placed on the insights derived from isotherm profiles, which elucidate sorbent structures and sorption dynamics. From these foundational principles, we derive material and chemical design guidelines and identify key tuning factors from a structural-functional perspective across multiple material systems, addressing their fundamental chemistries and unique attributes. The review further navigates through system-level design considerations to optimize water production efficiency. This review aims to equip researchers in the field of AWH with a thorough understanding of the water-sorbent interactions, material design principles, and system-level considerations essential for advancing this technology.

Interactions in Al2O3 - graphene oxide composite: XPS study

The structure of an aluminum oxide/graphene oxide (GO) composite was studied using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). High-energy resolved XPS measurements of Al 2p-core level spectra revealed the formation of Al–O–C bonds, which indicated the occurrence of interfacial reactions between Al2O3 and GO in the process of composite synthesis. An increase in intensity in the near-edge region of XPS valence band (VB) spectrum was observed with increasing GO concentration, indicating possible contribution of the electronic states of carbon. Filling the electronic states on the edge of VB allows to associate GO doping with the loss of dielectric properties of the original Al2O3 compound. Addition of graphene oxide to Al2O3 ceramics changed conductive properties of the composite due to formation of new chemical bonds.