bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Poly-Unsaturated Fatty Acids (PUFAs) from Cunninghamella elegans Grown on Glycerol Induce Cell Death and Increase Intracellular Reactive Oxygen Species
Authors: Kalampounias Georgios , Gardeli Chrysavgi , Alexis Spyridon , Anagnostopoulou Elena , Androutsopoulou Theodosia , Dritsas Panagiotis , Aggelis George , Papanikolaou Seraphim , Katsoris Panagiotis
Published: February 2024

Cunninghamella elegans NRRL-1393 is an oleaginous fungus able to synthesize and accumulate unsaturated fatty acids, amongst which the bioactive gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) has potential anti-cancer activities. C. elegans was cultured in shake-flask nitrogen-limited media with either glycerol or glucose (both at ≈60 g/L) employed as the sole substrate. The assimilation rate of both substrates was similar, as the total biomass production reached 13.0–13.5 g/L, c. 350 h after inoculation (for both instances, c. 27–29 g/L of substrate were consumed). Lipid production was slightly higher on glycerol-based media, compared to the growth on glucose (≈8.4 g/L vs. ≈7.0 g/L). Lipids from C. elegans grown on glycerol, containing c. 9.5% w/w of GLA, were transformed into fatty acid lithium salts (FALS), and their effects were assessed on both human normal and cancerous cell lines. The FALS exhibited cytotoxic effects within a 48 h interval with an IC50 of about 60 μg/mL. Additionally, a suppression of migration was shown, as a significant elevation of oxidative stress levels, and the induction of cell death. Elementary differences between normal and cancer cells were not shown, indicating a generic mode of action; however, oxidative stress level augmentation may increase susceptibility to anticancer drugs, improving chemotherapy effectiveness.
Mutational Dynamics Related to Antibiotic Resistance in M. tuberculosis Isolates from Serial Samples of Patients with Tuberculosis and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Bermúdez-Hernández Gustavo A. , Pérez-Martínez Damián , Ortiz-León Maria Cristina , Muñiz-Salazar Raquel , Licona-Cassani Cuauhtemoc , Zenteno-Cuevas Roberto
Published: February 2024

Genetic variation in tuberculosis is influenced by the host environment, patients with comorbidity, and tuberculosis–type 2 diabetes mellitus (TB-T2DM) and implies a higher risk of treatment failure and development of drug resistance. Considering the above, this study aimed to evaluate the influence of T2DM on the dynamic of polymorphisms related to antibiotic resistance in TB. Fifty individuals with TB-T2DM and TB were initially characterized, and serial isolates of 29 of these individuals were recovered on day 0 (diagnosis), 30, and 60. Genomes were sequenced, variants related to phylogeny and drug resistance analyzed, and mutation rates calculated and compared between groups. Lineage X was predominant. At day 0 (collection), almost all isolates from the TB group were sensitive, apart from four isolates from the TB-T2DM group showing the mutation katG S315T, from which one isolate had the mutations rpoB S450L, gyrA A90G, and gyrA D94G. This pattern was observed in a second isolate at day 30. The results provide a first overview of the dynamics of mutations in resistance genes from individuals with TB-T2DM, describing an early development of resistance to isoniazid and a rapid evolution of resistance to other drugs. Although preliminary, these results help to explain the increased risk of drug resistance in individuals with TB and T2DM.
Potential Beneficial Effects of Naringin and Naringenin on Long COVID—A Review of the Literature
Authors: Liu Siqi , Zhong Mengli , Wu Hao , Su Weiwei , Wang Yonggang , Li Peibo
Published: February 2024

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused a severe epidemic due to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). Recent studies have found that patients do not completely recover from acute infections, but instead, suffer from a variety of post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection, known as long COVID. The effects of long COVID can be far-reaching, with a duration of up to six months and a range of symptoms such as cognitive dysfunction, immune dysregulation, microbiota dysbiosis, myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome, myocarditis, pulmonary fibrosis, cough, diabetes, pain, reproductive dysfunction, and thrombus formation. However, recent studies have shown that naringenin and naringin have palliative effects on various COVID-19 sequelae. Flavonoids such as naringin and naringenin, commonly found in fruits and vegetables, have various positive effects, including reducing inflammation, preventing viral infections, and providing antioxidants. This article discusses the molecular mechanisms and clinical effects of naringin and naringenin on treating the above diseases. It proposes them as potential drugs for the treatment of long COVID, and it can be inferred that naringin and naringenin exhibit potential as extended long COVID medications, in the future likely serving as nutraceuticals or clinical supplements for the comprehensive alleviation of the various manifestations of COVID-19 complications.
Modulating Gastrointestinal Microbiota in Preweaning Dairy Calves: Dose-Dependent Effects of Milk-Based Sodium Butyrate Supplementation
Authors: Wu Donglin , Zhang Zhanhe , Song Qifan , Jia Yang , Qi Jingwei , Xu Ming
Published: February 2024

Sodium butyrate (SB), an essential nutritional additive for livestock, has drawn notable interest for its potential for enhancing microbiota development in ruminant animals. This study aimed to assess SB’s effects on ruminal and intestinal microbiota when added to milk for preweaning dairy calves nearing 45 days old. We administered SB in the calves’ milk at four levels: 0 g/d (control), 4.4 g/d (low), 8.8 g/d (medium), and 17.6 g/d (high). After a six-week trial with ten replicates per group, ruminal fluid and fecal samples were collected for 16S rRNA sequencing, specifically targeting the V3–V4 regions to analyze microbiota. The results indicated an enhancement in ruminal microbiota, particularly in community richness, with low-level SB supplementation but minimal benefits from medium and high levels of supplementation. Increasing the level of SB supplementation had a negative impact on intestinal microbiota, affecting community richness and some potentially beneficial bacterial genera. However, low SB supplementation could positively adjust the communication between ruminal and intestinal microbiota. Overall, this study suggests feeding milk supplemented with a low level of SB to suckling calves close to an older age to promote ruminal microbiota development.
Efficacy of Ceragenins in Controlling the Growth of Oral Microorganisms: Implications for Oral Hygiene Management
Authors: Czarnowski Michał , Słowińska Monika , Sawieljew Mariusz , Wnorowska Urszula , Daniluk Tamara , Król Grzegorz , Karasiński Maciej , Okła Sławomir , Savage Paul B. , Piktel Ewelina , Bucki Robert
Published: February 2024

Ensuring proper dental hygiene is of paramount importance for individuals’ general well-being, particularly for patients receiving medical care. There is a prevailing utilization of conventional oral hygiene items, including toothbrushes and mouthwashes, which have gained widespread acceptance; nevertheless, their limitations encourage investigating novel options in this domain. Our study indicates that ceragenins (CSAs) being lipid analogs of host defense peptides, well-recognized for their wide-ranging antimicrobial properties, may be a potentially efficacious means to augment oral hygiene in hospitalized individuals. We demonstrate that ceragenins CSA-13, CSA-44, and CSA-131 as well as undescribed to date CSA-255 display potent antimicrobial activities against isolates of fungi, aerobic, and anaerobic bacteria from Candida, Streptococcus, Enterococcus, and Bacteroides species, which are well-recognized representatives of microbes found in the oral cavity. These effects were further confirmed against mono- and dual-species fungal and bacterial biofilms. While the ceragenins showed similar or slightly diminished efficacy compared to commercially available mouthwashes, they demonstrated a highly favorable toxicity profile toward host cells, that may translate into better maintenance of host mucosal membrane stability. This suggests that incorporating ceragenins into oral hygiene products could be a valuable strategy for reducing the risk of both oral cavity-localized and secondary systemic infections and for improving the overall health outcomes of individuals receiving medical treatment.
Recent Technological and Intellectual Property Trends in Antibody–Drug Conjugate Research
Authors: Choi Youngbo , Choi Youbeen , Hong Surin
Published: February 2024

Antibody–drug conjugate (ADC) therapy, an advanced therapeutic technology comprising antibodies, chemical linkers, and cytotoxic payloads, addresses the limitations of traditional chemotherapy. This study explores key elements of ADC therapy, focusing on antibody development, linker design, and cytotoxic payload delivery. The global rise in cancer incidence has driven increased investment in anticancer agents, resulting in significant growth in the ADC therapy market. Over the past two decades, notable progress has been made, with approvals for 14 ADC treatments targeting various cancers by 2022. Diverse ADC therapies for hematologic malignancies and solid tumors have emerged, with numerous candidates currently undergoing clinical trials. Recent years have seen a noteworthy increase in ADC therapy clinical trials, marked by the initiation of numerous new therapies in 2022. Research and development, coupled with patent applications, have intensified, notably from major companies like Pfizer Inc. (New York, NY, USA), AbbVie Pharmaceuticals Inc. (USA), Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc. (Tarrytown, NY, USA), and Seagen Inc. (Bothell, WA, USA). While ADC therapy holds great promise in anticancer treatment, challenges persist, including premature payload release and immune-related side effects. Ongoing research and innovation are crucial for advancing ADC therapy. Future developments may include novel conjugation methods, stable linker designs, efficient payload delivery technologies, and integration with nanotechnology, driving the evolution of ADC therapy in anticancer treatment.
Delivery Strategies for Colchicine as a Critical Dose Drug: Reducing Toxicity and Enhancing Efficacy
Authors: Lei Yaran , Yang Yulu , Yang Guobao , Li Ao , Yang Yang , Wang Yuli , Gao Chunsheng
Published: February 2024

Colchicine (COL), a widely used natural drug, has potent anti-inflammatory effects; however, as a narrow therapeutic index drug, its clinical application is limited by its serious gastrointestinal adverse effects, and only oral formulations are currently marketed worldwide. Recent studies have shown that transdermal, injection, and oral drug delivery are the three main delivery strategies for COL. This article elaborates on the research progress of different delivery strategies in terms of toxicity reduction and efficacy enhancement, depicting that the transdermal drug delivery route can avoid the first-pass effect and the traumatic pain associated with the oral and injection routes, respectively. Therefore, such a dosage form holds a significant promise that requires the development of further research to investigate effective COL delivery formulations. In addition, the permeation-promoting technologies utilized for transdermal drug delivery systems are briefly discussed. This article is expected to provide scientific ideas and theoretical guidance for future research and the exploration of COL delivery strategies.
Interspecies Brain PBPK Modeling Platform to Predict Passive Transport through the Blood–Brain Barrier and Assess Target Site Disposition
Authors: Mehta Parsshava , Soliman Amira , Rodriguez-Vera Leyanis , Schmidt Stephan , Muniz Paula , Rodriguez Monica , Forcadell Marta , Gonzalez-Perez Emili , Vozmediano Valvanera
Published: February 2024

The high failure rate of central nervous system (CNS) drugs is partly associated with an insufficient understanding of target site exposure. Blood–brain barrier (BBB) permeability evaluation tools are needed to explore drugs’ ability to access the CNS. An outstanding aspect of physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) models is the integration of knowledge on drug-specific and system-specific characteristics, allowing the identification of the relevant factors involved in target site distribution. We aimed to qualify a PBPK platform model to be used as a tool to predict CNS concentrations when significant transporter activity is absent and human data are sparse or unavailable. Data from the literature on the plasma and CNS of rats and humans regarding acetaminophen, oxycodone, lacosamide, ibuprofen, and levetiracetam were collected. Human BBB permeability values were extrapolated from rats using inter-species differences in BBB surface area. The percentage of predicted AUC and Cmax within the 1.25-fold criterion was 85% and 100% for rats and humans, respectively, with an overall GMFE of <1.25 in all cases. This work demonstrated the successful application of the PBPK platform for predicting human CNS concentrations of drugs passively crossing the BBB. Future applications include the selection of promising CNS drug candidates and the evaluation of new posologies for existing drugs.
Effect of Polarization on Cross-Spectral Density Matrix
Authors: Gautam Akanksha , Naik Dinesh N. , Narayanamurthy C. S. , Singh Rakesh Kumar
Published: February 2024

Coherence-polarization properties of different beams are experimentally measured in the far-field from the source and results are presented for incoherent sources with three different polarization features, such as unpolarized, diagonally polarized, and spatially depolarized. These results highlight the role of polarization tailoring on far-field coherence-polarization properties of the incoherent vector source. The effect of polarization on far-field coherence is analyzed using a beam cross-spectral density (CSD) matrix, and the role of polarization tailoring on the CSD matrix is demonstrated. Two-dimensional spatial distributions of all four elements of the CSD matrix are experimentally realized using a field-based interferometer with Sagnac geometry in combination with a four-step phase-shifting technique.
Speckle Reduction in Digital Holography by Fast Logistic Adaptive Non-Local Means Filtering
Authors: Fu Yiping , Leng Junmin , Xu Zhenqi
Published: February 2024

Digital holography is a promising imaging technology. However, there is speckle noise in the reconstructed image of a digital hologram. Speckle degrades the quality of the reconstructed image. Suppression of speckle noise is a challenging problem in digital holography. A novel method is proposed to reduce speckle by a fast logistic adaptive non-local means (LA-NLM) algorithm. In the proposed method, the logistic function is incorporated into the weight calculation of the NLM algorithm to account for multiplicative speckle noise. Filtering parameters are dynamically adjusted according to the statistical property of speckle in the reconstructed image. To enhance computational efficiency, the proposed algorithm takes advantage of the integral image technique to speed up the calculation of the similarity between image patches. Simulated and experimental digital holograms are obtained to verify the proposed method. The results show that the speckle noise is effectively suppressed in digital holography. The proposed method is efficient and feasible, and can be applied to such fields as three-dimensional display, holographic measurement, and medical diagnosis.
The Spiral Spectrum of a Laguerre–Gaussian Beam Carrying the Cross-Phase Propagating in Weak-to-Strong Atmospheric Turbulence
Authors: Li Yunxiao , Zhang Zhao , Li Ruyi , Xu Dong , Zhang Hao , Cai Yangjian , Zeng Jun
Published: February 2024

In communication links, the presence of atmospheric turbulence leads to crosstalk between the orbital angular momentum (OAM) states, thereby limiting the performance of information transmission. Thus, knowledge of the effect of turbulence on the spiral spectrum (also named the OAM spectrum) is of utmost importance in the field of optical communications. However, most of the existing studies are limited to weak turbulence calculation models. In this paper, based on the extended Huygens–Fresnel integral, the analytical expression is derived for the mutual coherence function of a Laguerre–Gaussian beam carrying the cross-phase and propagating through weak-to-strong anisotropic Kolmogorov atmospheric turbulence; subsequently, the analytical expression is used to study the behavior of the spiral spectrum. The discrepancies in the spiral spectrum between weak and strong turbulence are comparatively studied. The influences of the cross-phase and the anisotropy of turbulence on the spiral spectrum are investigated through numerical examples. Our results reveal that the cross-phase determines the distribution of the spiral spectrum. The spiral spectrum can be tuned to multiple OAM modes through the adaptation of the cross-phase coefficient. Moreover, increasing the cross-phase coefficient can reduce both the discrepancies of the spiral spectrum under two computational methods and the effects of the anisotropic factors of turbulence on the spiral spectrum.
Applications of Microstructured Optical Fibers in Ultrafast Optics: A Review
Authors: Tang Ziwen , Zheng Zihua , Li Boyao , Wei Zhiyi , Sun Jinghua
Published: February 2024

With the development of laser technology, microstructured optical fibers (MOFs) have become an important part of ultrafast optics, providing excellent platforms for ultrafast laser pulse generation, amplification, and compression, promoting the development of fiber laser systems to generate high power, high pulse energy, and few-cycle duration pulses. MOFs extend the ultrafast laser spectrum to the vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) and even extreme ultraviolet (EUV) regions based on dispersive wave emission and high harmonic generation, as well as to the mid-infrared region based on soliton self-frequency shift (SSFS), contributing compact and low-cost light sources for precision microscopy and spectroscopy. In this paper, first several common types of MOFs are introduced, then the various applications of MOFs in ultrafast optics are discussed, mainly focusing on the aspects of ultrafast laser pulse scaling in pulse energy and spectral bandwidth, and finally the possible prospects of MOFs are given.
A Pattern Recognition Method for Filter Bags in Bag Dust Collectors Based on Φ-Optical Time-Domain Reflectometry
Authors: Liu Xu’an , Tang Yuquan , Zhang Zhirong , Yang Shuang , Hu Zhouchang , Xu Yuan
Published: February 2024

The use of phase-sensitive optical time-domain reflectometry (Φ-OTDR)-distributed fiber vibration sensors to detect and identify damaged bags in bag dust collectors has the potential to overcome the inadequacy of traditional damaged bag detection methods. In our previous study, we verified the feasibility of applying this technique in the field of damaged bag detection in bag filters. However, many problems still occur in engineering applications when using this technology to detect and identify damaged filter bags in pulse-jet dust-cleaning bag dust collectors. Further studies are needed to characterize the fiber vibration signals inside different types of rectangular damaged filter bags. A filter bag damage identification and detection method based on empirical mode decomposition (EMD) and a backpropagation (BP) neural network is proposed. The signal feature differences between intact filter bags and damaged filter bags with different rectangular hole sizes and positions are comparatively analyzed, and optimal feature difference parameters are proposed. Support vector machine (SVM) and a BP neural network are used to recognize different types of filter bag signals, and the comparison results show that the BP neural network algorithm is better at recognizing different types of filter bags, obtaining the highest recognition rate of 97.3%.
Gain Measurement of ZnGeP2 Optical Parametric Oscillator Pulses in a High-Pressure CO2 Amplifier
Authors: Zhu Ziren , Liu Yu , Ye Jinghan , Tian Juntao , Wan Tianjian , Bai Jinzhou , Zheng Yijun , Tan Rongqing , Li Zhiyong , Su Xinjun
Published: February 2024

Laser pulse amplification by a high-pressure CO2 amplifier in the long-wave infrared (LWIR) spectral range is a feasible technology for strong-field physics research. Crystals such as ZnGeP2 (ZGP) have high nonlinear coefficients and transmittance in the LWIR region, with spectral widths of generated pulses closely matching the gain spectrum of high-pressure CO2 amplifiers. Therefore, ZGP optical parametric oscillation (OPO) may allow higher-efficiency energy extraction in amplifiers, improving the output characteristics of LWIR amplification systems. In this study, the gain measurement of ZGP OPO pulses amplified by a high-pressure CO2 amplifier was carried out for the first time. Single-detector acquisition was utilized to achieve a unified sensor responsivity, and a laser signal-triggered function generator was used to synchronize the seed pulse and amplifier. Six-pass amplification was performed successively, yielding an amplification factor of 4.5 for the peak power and a maximum coefficient of 0.42% cm−1 for the small-signal gain. The gain and loss effect during small-signal amplification were discussed. The potential capability of acquiring ultra-short pulses with ZGP OPO pulses was also explored with the FFT function of MATLAB software.
Expansion Injection Molding Process Using Clamping Force for Melt Compression
Authors: Park Joon Hyoung , Kim Sun Kyoung
Published: February 2024

Melt expansion followed by compression has been utilized for high-speed filling. In general, this technology was developed for a machine level. Recently, mold-level technology has been tried. In this study, an expansion injection molding process was examined, which included compressing a polymer melt through cylinder action facilitated by the movement of the platen, followed by the expansion of the polymer melt into a mold cavity. A mold system including temperature control and valve actions, similar to hot runner systems, was designed and built. The test results show good filling when the injection pressure was high. Simulations were also carried out, highlighting consistent pressure and filling trends, while revealing limitations tied to the characteristics of the state model. This research indicates promise for expansion injection molding through platen compression but emphasizes the need for the seamless integration of valve action with the injection molding machine for large-scale production.
Kinetic Study of the Diels–Alder Reaction between Maleimide and Furan-Containing Polystyrene Using Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Wang Tongtong , Gao Dali , Yin Hua , Zhao Jiawei , Wang Xingguo , Niu Hui
Published: February 2024

The Diels–Alder (D–A) reaction between furan and maleimide is a thermally reversible reaction that has become a vital chemical technique for designing polymer structures and functions. The kinetics of this reaction, particularly in polymer bulk states, have significant practical implications. In this study, we investigated the feasibility of utilizing infrared spectroscopy to measure the D–A reaction kinetics in bulk-state polymer. Specifically, we synthesized furan-functionalized polystyrene and added a maleimide small-molecule compound to form a D–A adduct. The intensity of the characteristic absorption peak of the D–A adduct was quantitatively measured by infrared spectroscopy, and the dependence of conversion of the D–A reaction on time was obtained at different temperatures. Subsequently, the D–A reaction apparent kinetic coefficient kapp and the Arrhenius activation energy Ea,D–A were calculated. These results were compared with those determined from 1H-NMR in the polymer solution states.
Using Cassava Starch Processing By-Product for Bioproduction of 1-Hydroxyphenazine: A Novel Fungicide against Fusarium oxysporum
Authors: Phan Tu Quy , Wang San-Lang , Nguyen Thi Hanh , Nguyen Thi Huyen , Pham Thi Huyen Thoa , Doan Manh Dung , Tran Thi Ha Trang , Ngo Van Anh , Nguyen Anh Dzung , Nguyen Van Bon
Published: February 2024

This study aimed to develop the eco-friendly production of bioactive 1-hydroxyphenazine (HP) through fermentation using an industrial processing by-product of cassava as the main carbon/nitrogen source. Cassava starch processing by-product (CSPB) was screened as a suitable substrate for fermentation to produce HP with a high yield. Mixing CSPB with a minor amount of tryptic soy broth (TSB) at a ratio of 8/2 and with 0.05% K2HPO4 and 0.05% FeSO4 was effective in HP production by Pseudomonas aeruginosa TUN03. HP was also further scaled up through production on a bioreactor system, which achieved a higher level yield (36.5 µg/mL) in a shorter fermentation time (10 h) compared to its production in the flask (20.23 µg/mL after 3 days). In anti-fungal activity tests against various Fusarium phytopathogens, HP exhibited the most significant effect on Fusarium oxysporum F10. It could inhibit the mycelial growth of this fungus, with an inhibition rate of 68.7% and anti-spore germination activity of up to 98.4%. The results of the docking study indicate that HP effectively interacted with the protein 1TRY targeting anti-F. oxysporum, with all obtained docking parameters in the accepted range. This study supports the novel use of CSPB as the carbon/nitrogen source for P. aeruginosa fermentation to produce HP, a F. oxysporum anti-fungal agent reported here for the first time.
Effect of Surface Condition on the Results of Chemical Composition Measurements of Scrap Copper Alloys
Authors: Bernat Łukasz , Jurtsch Tomasz , Moryson Grzegorz , Moryson Jan , Wiczyński Grzegorz
Published: February 2024

The processing of copper-bearing scrap makes it possible to reduce the costs and energy consumption of obtaining copper alloy products compared to producing them from primary raw materials. To achieve this, it is necessary to quickly and accurately determine the content of alloying elements in individual scrap elements. However, the copper-bearing scrap obtained at secondary raw materials collection points consists of elements with various surface conditions (due to contamination, shape, paint coatings, roughness, etc.). The paper contains research results on the influence of surface roughness and paint coatings on the measurement result of the content of alloying elements in copper-bearing scrap. Three mobile spectrometers were used for measurements: spark-induced optical emission spectroscopy (OES), X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF) and laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS). The tests used elements with different surface roughness (from Ra = 0.03 μm to 6.7 μm) and covered with various types of varnish (alkyd, water-based, oil-phthalic, acrylic, oil-alkyd). It was found that the roughness of Ra < 2 μm does not significantly affect the results of the measurements with the OES and LIBS spectrometers, and a larger scatter of measurement results was observed for the XRF spectrometer compared to OES and LIBS. For Ra > 2 μm, a significant impact of roughness was found on the measurement results (this may result in the erroneous classification of the scrap as an incorrect material group). The influence of paint coatings on the measurement is much stronger compared to surface roughness. Even a single layer of paint can cause a change in the measurement result of the content of alloying elements by more than 10%. In the case of an OES spectrometer, paint coatings may prevent the measurement from being performed (which means that no measurement result can be acquired).
Orality in Translating Biblical Hebrew Proverbs in Sesotho
Authors: Makutoane Tshokolo J.
Published: February 2024

This paper evaluates how Sesotho translators have translated Biblical Hebrew proverbs in the 1989 Sesotho translation of the Bible. Because this 1989 translation is undergoing revision by the Bible Society of South Africa, it is important to determine the success of the translation. The orality of proverbs relates to their origin as orally transmitted sapiential sayings. In evaluating how some of the Biblical Hebrew proverbs are translated in Sesotho, the literal translation of 1909/61 will be compared to the 1989 dynamic equivalent translation. Using complexity thinking as a theoretical framework, the paper argues that the Hebrew proverbs are better translated in the 1989 version than they are in the 1909/61 version of the Bible in Sesotho in terms of numerous features of orality. In the 1989 version and its revision, proverbs are translated in a poetic format. This means that the translated proverbs in this version of the Bible, informed by the principles of orality, exhibit Sesotho poetic features or structures. The article is divided into the following components: proverbs in Hebrew and Sesotho, theoretical frameworks, how the theoretical frameworks are used to translate certain Hebrew proverbs in the 1989 version, and conclusions.
The Theology of the Ethnocultural Empathic Turn: Towards the Balkan Theology of Political Liberation
Authors: Sekulić Branko
Published: February 2024

The theology of the ethnocultural empathic turn, on the general level, encompasses ethnocultural empathy, which, as a branch of social psychology, strives for a thorough understanding of the life context of those ethnically and culturally different from ourselves. In the context of Christian theology, this turn also embraces the turn reflected in Mt 15:21–28 (Mk 7:24–30), in which Jesus expands his missionary work from the locally based “House of Israel” into the global realm to include the entire “inhabited world”. In this essay, the theological discourse of ethnocultural empathic turn is embedded within a specific sociopolitical context, which brings us to the Balkans, i.e., the post-Yugoslav framework, where we discuss the legacy of Bishop Srećko Badurina and layperson Franjo Starčević. During the disintegration of the Yugoslav Federation, they vigorously resisted the dominant ethnonationalist-religious persuasions of the Croatian Catholic and Serbian Orthodox communities. They stood up for those who faced elimination due to the policy of ethnic cleansing. Today, both can serve as the foundation for the establishment of the theology in question, aiming at the development of the first post-Yugoslav contextual theology based on the political theology and the theology of liberation, capable of tackling the phenomenon of ethnoreligiosity as one of the most pressing problems plaguing this region.
Mysticism and Practical Rationality Exploring Evelyn Underhill through the Lens of Phronesis
Authors: Pérez Lasserre Diego
Published: February 2024

This paper aims to justify that mysticism can be considered rational from the perspective of practical reason. Particularly, we will argue that mysticism embodies the oxymoron inherent in practical wisdom (phronesis), namely, an ordered openness. Our roadmap for substantiating this hypothesis is as follows: we will start by explaining that if the concept of rationality is approached in a scientistic manner, then mysticism cannot be deemed rational. We will employ Kant’s approach to rationality to support this assertion (2). Next, we will demonstrate that while the modern scientific approach to rationality is effective for fields of study where the subject matter typically unfolds in a regular or predictable manner, it proves insufficient in dimensions of existence that resist normative descriptions. In this section, following Aristotle and Gadamer, we will contend that theoretical reason should be complemented by practical reason, which is characterized by normative openness (3). Finally, we will argue that mysticism, although not rational from a theoretical viewpoint, is indeed rational from a practical standpoint (4). To avoid inappropriate generalizations when discussing mysticism, the third section will be centered on the work of Evelyn Underhill.
Features of the Association between Debt and Earnings Quality for Small and Medium-Sized Entities
Authors: Sequeira José , Pereira Cláudia , Gomes Luís , Lima Armindo
Published: February 2024

The main source of financing is bank loans for Portuguese small and medium-sized entities (SMEs), which implies several constraints to obtaining additional funds. Relying on the argument of Positive Accounting Theory (PAT) that accounting choices are not neutral and on Agency Theory that information asymmetry prevails between insiders and outsiders, we analyzed the impacts of debt on earnings quality, focusing on its level, its increases, and its term of payment. We estimated econometric regressions using panel data with fixed effects over 2013–2019, using discretionary accruals as an inverse proxy of earnings quality. We found empirical evidence that the relationship between debt and earnings quality tends to vary in sign, as the quality of financial information deteriorates with debt, but as debt becomes high, firms tend to increase the quality of earnings. Furthermore, we found that short-term debt tends to decrease earnings quality more than long-term debt. This article aimed to contribute to the prior literature by collecting evidence that debt levels tend to be an incentive to increase earnings management and fill the gap by analyzing the influence of different debt features. This evidence is useful because earnings management may compromise both stakeholders’ confidence and the efficient allocation of capital.
Spatial Heterogeneity and the Increasing Trend of Vegetation and Their Driving Mechanisms in the Mountainous Area of Haihe River Basin
Authors: Cao Bo , Wang Yan , Zhang Xiaolong , Shen Yan-Jun
Published: February 2024

In addition to serving as North China’s water supply and ecological barrier, the mountainous area of the Haihe River basin (MHRB) is a crucial location for the application of ecological engineering. Vegetation is an important component in the ecological conservation and eco-hydrological progress of the MHRB. A better understanding of regional vegetation growth can be achieved by a thorough investigation of vegetation indicators. In this research, the leaf area index (LAI) and gross primary productivity (GPP) were chosen as vegetation indicators. The characteristics and driving forces of the spatiotemporal variations of LAI and GPP in the MHRB were explored through Sen’s slope, the Mann–Kendall test, the optimal parameter-based geographical detector model, and correlation analysis. From 2001 to 2018, the annual LAI and GPP increased significantly on the regional scale. The areas with significantly increased vegetation accounted for more than 81% of the MHRB. Land use was the most influential element for the spatial heterogeneity of LAI and GPP, and the humidity index was the most crucial one among climate indicators. Non-linear enhancement or bivariate enhancement was discovered between any two factors, and the strongest interaction was from land use and humidity index. The lowest vegetation cover was found in dry regions with annual precipitation below 407 mm and the humidity index under 0.41; while in both forests and large undulating mountains, higher LAI and GPP were observed. About 87% of the significantly increased vegetation was found in areas with unaltered land use. The increase in vegetation in the MHRB from 2001 to 2018 was promoted by the increased precipitation and humidity index and the reduced vapor pressure deficit. The sensitivity of GPP to climate change was stronger than that of LAI. These findings can serve as a theoretical guide for the application of ecological engineering and ecological preservation in the MHRB.
Seasonal Variation in the Mesospheric Ca Layer and Ca+ Layer Simultaneously Observed over Beijing (40.41°N, 116.01°E)
Authors: Xun Yuchang , Zhao Peng , Wang Zelong , Du Lifang , Jiao Jing , Chen Zhishan , Zheng Haoran , Gong Shaohua , Yang Guotao
Published: February 2024

In March 2020, an all-solid-state dual-wavelength narrow-band lidar system was deployed. A total of 226 nights spanning from March 2020 to July 2022 were employed in order to investigate the seasonal variations of calcium atoms and ions in the mesosphere over Beijing (40.41°N, 116.01°E). The Ca+ layer shows general annual variation, while a semiannual variation is observed on the Ca layer. The calcium atomic column densities ranged from 2.0 × 106 to 1.1 × 108 cm−2, and the calcium ion column densities ranged from 1.6 × 106 to 4.2 × 108 cm−2. The mean centroid heights of Ca+ and Ca are 98.6 km and 93.0 km, respectively, and the centroid heights of Ca+ and Ca are mostly influenced by annual variations. The seasonal variation in the Ca+ and Ca layers in Beijing exhibits similarities to that of Kühlungsborn (54°N). While the peak density of Ca+ in Beijing are similar to those observed in Kühlungsborn, the peak density of the Ca layer in Beijing is about half of that reported in the Ca layer at 54°N. We provide an explanation for the disparities in the column abundance and centroid altitude of the Ca layer between Yanqing and Kühlungsborn, discussing variations in neutralization among different metal ions.
Circular Economy in the Building Sector: Investigating Awareness, Attitudes, Barriers, and Enablers through a Case Study in Saudi Arabia
Authors: AlJaber Abdulaziz , Martinez-Vazquez Pedro , Baniotopoulos Charalampos
Published: February 2024

The adoption of circular economy (CE) holds significant potential to mitigate the challenges posed by the conventional linear economic model. The building sector in Saudi Arabia continues experiencing rapid growth, often marked by a consistent annual rise in the number of projects. The incorporation of CE principles into this expansion presents opportunities to optimize resource utilization, minimize waste generation, and enhance overall environmental sustainability. This study explores the current levels of awareness, perception, and implementation of CE principles among local building sector stakeholders and assesses the potential for CE expansion in the region. Additionally, it seeks to rank the identified barriers and enablers while exploring the interconnected relationships between such barriers. A literature review was conducted to explore the CE barriers and enablers. This was followed by an online survey which was conducted amongst 139 respondents from diverse stakeholder groups. A relative importance index (RII) was employed to rank the barriers and enablers, and the findings were subjected to statistical analysis using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The outcomes of this study highlight a significant lack of awareness regarding CE principles among stakeholders, with a very low implementation rate. To break this inertia and encourage the adoption of CE practices, this study suggests the need for CE- supportive policy and legislation, and the provision of financial incentives.
Analysis of a Multiple Traffic Flow Network’s Spatial Organization Pattern Recognition Based on a Network Map
Authors: Liang Juanzhu , Xie Shunyi , Bao Jinjian
Published: February 2024

Detecting the spatial organization patterns of urban networks with multiple traffic flows from the perspective of complex networks and traffic behavior will help to optimize the urban spatial structure and thereby promote the sustainable development of the city. However, there are notable differences in regional spatial patterns among the different modes of transportation. Based on the road, railway, and air frequency data, this article investigates the spatial distribution and accessibility patterns of multiple transportation flows in the Yangtze River Economic Belt. Next, we use the TCD (Transportation Cluster Detection) community discovery algorithm and integrate it with the Baidu Maps API to obtain real-time time cost data to construct a community detection model of a multiple traffic flow network. We integrate the geographical network and topological network to perform feature extraction and rule mining on the spatial organization model of the urban network in the Yangtze River Economic Belt. The results show that: (1) The multiple traffic flow network of the Yangtze River Economic Belt has significant spatial differentiation. The spatial differentiation of aviation and railway networks is mainly concentrated between regions and within provinces, while the imbalance of highway networks is manifested as an imbalance within regions and between provinces. (2) The accessibility pattern of the highway network in the Yangtze River Economic Belt presents a “core–edge” spatial pattern. The accessibility pattern of the railway network generally presents a spatial pattern of “strong in the east and weak in the west”. Compared with sparse road and railway networks, the accessibility pattern of the aviation network shows a spatial pattern of “time and space compression in western cities”. (3) A total of 24 communities were identified through the TCD algorithm, mainly encompassing six major “urban economic communities” located in Guizhou, Yunnan, Anhui, Sichuan–Chongqing, Hubei–Hunan–Jiangxi, and Jiangsu–Zhejiang–Shanghai. (4) The urban network space organization model of the Yangtze River Economic Belt can be roughly divided into three models: the “single-core” model, with Guizhou, Kunming, and Hefei as the core, the “dual-core” model, constructed by Chengdu–Chongqing, and the “multi-core” model, constructed by Changsha–Wuhan–Nanchang and Shanghai–Nanjing–Hangzhou. This model of urban network spatial organization holds indicative significance in revealing the spatial correlation pattern among prefecture-level city units.
Unveiling the Spatial-Temporal Characteristics and Driving Factors of Greenhouse Gases and Atmospheric Pollutants Emissions of Energy Consumption in Shandong Province, China
Authors: He Guangyang , Jiang Wei , Gao Weidong , Lu Chang
Published: February 2024

As the largest energy-consuming province in China, Shandong faces the dual task of greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction and atmospheric pollution control. Based on the latest activity data and updated emission factors, this study establishes a high-resolution emission inventory (5 km × 5 km) for GHGs and main atmospheric pollutants from the energy consumption sectors of Shandong Province from 2010 to 2021, quantifies the relationship between social economic factors and GHGs and atmospheric pollutants emissions using the expanded stochastic environmental impact assessment (STIRPAT) model, and forecasts the future emission trend with the help of the scenario analysis method. Results indicate that the electricity and transportation sectors are the main contributors to all pollutants. Spatially, the high value of pollutants is mainly concentrated in the urban agglomerations of central and eastern Shandong. Up to 72% of GHGs and 50% of air pollution emissions are attributed to the top 10% of emission grids. Emission peaks occur mainly in summer and winter due to straw burning, increased utilization of temperature-controlled facilities, and expansion of plant capacity. Population, energy consumption, the proportion of secondary industry, and energy consumption intensity are the most significant influencing factors for pollutant emissions. Scenario analysis results indicate Shandong province can reach its carbon peak in 2027 without sacrificing population growth or economic progress.
The Electric Vehicle Scheduling Problem for Buses in Networks with Multi-Port Charging Stations
Authors: Chau Matina L. Y. , Koutsompina Diamanto , Gkiotsalitis Konstantinos
Published: February 2024

As more and more cities try to reduce their CO2 emissions, public transport fleets are undergoing a transition from conventional to electric vehicles. To complete this shift, there is a need to build the required charging infrastructure. When the first electric buses were adopted, the charging stations were mostly built in the locations of large bus depots. However, in recent years, there has been a crowding problem in the charging stations resulting in queuing and unnecessary delays. In this study, we explore the potential of replacing single-port charging stations with multi-port charging stations that can serve multiple vehicles at once with a reduced charging rate. Because the charging rate reduces with the number of ports, we develop a mixed-integer linear program to determine the charging schedules of bus fleets in order to reduce the overall delays in the bus network. The novel formulation is tested in benchmark instances of various sizes demonstrating the improvement potential.
Multi-Layered Local Dynamic Map for a Connected and Automated In-Vehicle System
Authors: Taddei Sebastiano , Visintainer Filippo , Stoffella Filippo , Biral Francesco
Published: February 2024

Automated Driving (AD) has been receiving considerable attention from industry, the public, and researchers for its ability to reduce accidents, emissions, and congestion. The purpose of this study is to extend the standardized Local Dynamic Map (LDM) by adding two new layers, and develop efficient and accurate algorithms designed to enhance AD by exploiting the LDM coupled with Cooperative Perception (CP). The LDM is implemented as a Neo4j graph database and extends the standard four-layer structure by adding a detection layer and a prediction layer. A custom Application Programming Interface (API) manages all incoming data, generates the LDM, and runs the algorithms. Currently, the API can match detected entities coming from different sources, correctly position them on the map even in the presence of high uncertainties in the data, and predict their future actions. We tested the developed LDM with real-world data, which we collected using a prototype vehicle from Centro Ricerche FIAT (CRF) Trento Branch—the supporting research center for this work—in urban, suburban, and highway areas of Trento, Italy. The results show that the developed solution is capable of accurately matching and predicting detected entities, is robust to high uncertainties in the data, and is efficient, achieving real-time performance in all scenarios. From these results we can conclude that the LDM and CP have the potential to be core parts of AD, bringing improvements to the development process.
Natural/Small Water Retention Measures: Their Contribution to Ecosystem-Based Concepts
Authors: Magnier Julie , Fribourg-Blanc Benoît , Lemann Tatenda , Witing Felix , Critchley William , Volk Martin
Published: February 2024

The increasing incidence of droughts and heavy rainfall events is exacerbating conflicts between human and environmental demands for water. However, through providing multiple water-related ecosystem services and benefits simultaneously, Natural/Small Water Retention Measures (NSWRM) can mitigate such competing claims. Thus, they also contribute to the achievement of various Sustainable Development Goals and environmental targets set out in water- and agriculture-related policies of the European Union. In particular, NSWRM provide for the sound management of watersheds, which can significantly contribute to improved water quality and availability—as well as improving the resilience of agriculture and society. This paper demonstrates how NSWRM fit into the framework of ecosystem-based concepts, including Natural Water Retention Measures (NWRM), Green Infrastructure (GI), Sustainable Land Management (SLM), Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA), and Nature-based Solutions (NbS). NSWRM, as a distinct concept, bring added value to the other concepts by focussing on easy-to-implement, modestly sized, localised technical solutions to problems associated with water management, sediment, and nutrient loss. Through experience under the EU Horizon 2020 project OPTAIN (“OPtimal strategies to retAIN and re-use water and nutrients in small agricultural catchments across different soil-climatic regions in Europe”), we show what NSWRM are, how they are linked to each of the ecosystem-based concepts, and how they can help add value to these concepts. Fourteen case studies are drawn upon from diverse countries across Europe. As a result of this analysis, we present the potential for the application of NSWRM in the context of these concepts, while helping to identify planning tools, the expertise required, and potential funding mechanisms.