bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent Trends in Proxy Model Development for Well Placement Optimization Employing Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Salasakar Sameer , Prakash Sabyasachi , Thakur Ganesh
Published: November 2024

Well placement optimization refers to the identification of optimal locations for wells (producers and injectors) to maximize net present value (NPV) and oil recovery. It is a complex challenge in all phases of production (primary, secondary and tertiary) of a reservoir. Reservoir simulation is primarily used to solve this intricate task by analyzing numerous scenarios with varied well locations to determine the optimum location that maximizes the targeted objective functions (e.g., NPV and oil recovery). Proxy models are a computationally less expensive alternative to traditional reservoir simulation techniques since they approximate complex simulations with simpler models. Previous review papers have focused on analyzing various optimization algorithms and techniques for well placement. This article explores various types of proxy models that are the most suitable for well placement optimization due their discrete and nonlinear natures and focuses on recent advances in the area. Proxy models in this article are sub-divided into two primary classes, namely data-driven models and reduced order models (ROMs). The data-driven models include statistical- and machine learning (ML)-based approximations of nonlinear problems. The second class, i.e., a ROM, uses proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) methods to reduce the dimensionality of the problem. This paper introduces various subcategories within these two proxy model classes and presents the successful applications from the well placement optimization literature. Finally, the potential of integrating a data-driven approach with ROM techniques to develop more computationally efficient proxy models for well placement optimization is also discussed. This article is intended to serve as a comprehensive review of the latest proxy model techniques for the well placement optimization problem. In conclusion, while proxy models have their own challenges, their ability to significantly reduce the complexity of the well placement optimization process for huge reservoir simulation areas makes them extremely appealing. With active research and development occurring in this area, proxy models are poised to play an increasingly central role in oil and gas well placement optimization.
High-Energetic Salts and Metal Complexes: Comprehensive Overview with a Focus on Use in Homemade Explosives (HME)
Authors: Gierczyk Błażej , Zalas Maciej , Otłowski Tomasz
Published: November 2024

Metal-containing compounds form a large and rapidly expanding group of high-energy materials. Many compounds in this class attract the attention of non-professionals, who may attempt the illegal production of explosives. Several of these substances have been commercially available and pose significant danger if used by terrorists or for criminal purposes. Others are experimental compounds, kinds of curiosities, often created by pyrotechnics enthusiasts, which can present serious risks to both the creators and their immediate surroundings. The internet hosts a vast amount of information, including recipes and discussions on forums, private websites, social media, and more. This paper aims to review the variety of metal-containing explosives and discuss their appeal and potential accessibility to unauthorized individuals.
Optimization of Soft X-Ray Fresnel Zone Plate Fabrication Through Joint Electron Beam Lithography and Cryo-Etching Techniques
Authors: Labani Maha , Clericò Vito , Diez Enrique , Gatti Giancarlo , Amado Mario , Pérez-Rodríguez Ana
Published: November 2024

The ability to manufacture complex 3D structures with nanometer-scale resolution, such as Fresnel Zone Plates (FZPs), is crucial to achieve state-of-the-art control in X-ray sources for use in a diverse range of cutting-edge applications. This study demonstrates a novel approach combining Electron Beam Lithography (EBL) and cryoetching to produce silicon-based FZP prototypes as a test bench to assess the strong points and limitations of this fabrication method. Through this method, we obtained FZPs with 100 zones, a diameter of 20 µm, and an outermost zone width of 50 nm, resulting in a high aspect ratio that is suitable for use across a range of photon energies. The process incorporates a chromium mask in the EBL stage, enhancing microstructure precision and mitigating pattern collapse challenges. This minimized issues of under- and over-etching, producing well-defined patterns with a nanometer-scale resolution and low roughness. The refined process thus holds promise for achieving improved optical resolution and efficiency in FZPs, making it viable for the fabrication of high-performance, nanometer-scale devices.
Classical and Bohmian Trajectories in Integrable and Nonintegrable Systems
Authors: Contopoulos George , Tzemos Athanasios C.
Published: November 2024

In the present paper, we study both classical and quantum Hénon–Heiles systems. In particular, we make a comparison between the classical and quantum trajectories of integrable and nonintegrable Hénon–Heiles Hamiltonians. From a classical standpoint, we study both theoretically and numerically the form of invariant curves in the Poincaré surfaces of section for several values of the coupling parameter in the integrable case and compare them with those in the nonintegrable case. Then, we examine the corresponding Bohmian trajectories, and we find that they are chaotic in both cases, but with chaos emerging at different times.
In Silico Evaluation of Some Computer-Designed Fluoroquinolone–Glutamic Acid Hybrids as Potential Topoisomerase II Inhibitors with Anti-Cancer Effect
Authors: Oancea Octavia-Laura , Gâz Șerban Andrei , Marc Gabriel , Lungu Ioana-Andreea , Rusu Aura
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Fluoroquinolones (FQs) are topoisomerase II inhibitors with antibacterial activity, repositioned recently as anti-cancer agents. Glutamic acid (GLA) is an amino acid that affects human metabolism. Since an anti-cancer mechanism of FQs is human topoisomerase II inhibition, it is expected that FQ-GLA hybrids can act similarly. Methods: We designed 27 hypothetical hybrids of 6 FQs and GLA through amide bonds at the 3- and 7-position groups of FQs or via ethylenediamine/ethanolamine linkers at the carboxyl group of the FQ. Hydroxamic acid derivatives were also theoretically formulated. Computational methods were used to predict their physicochemical, pharmacokinetic, or toxicological properties and their anti-cancer activity. For comparison, etoposide was used as an anti-cancer agent inhibiting topoisomerase II. Molecular docking assessed whether the hybrids could interact with the human topoisomerase II beta in the same binding site and interaction sites as etoposide. Results: All the hybrids acted as potential topoisomerase II inhibitors, demonstrating possible anti-cancer activity on several cancer cell lines. Among all the proposed hybrids, MF-7-GLA would be the ideal candidate as a lead compound. The hybrid OF-3-EDA-GLA and the hydroxamic acid derivatives also stood out. Conclusions: Both FQs and GLA have advantageous structures for obtaining hybrids with favourable properties. Improvements in the hybrids’ structure could lead to promising results.
Chromatic Aberration in Wavefront Coding Imaging with Trefoil Phase Mask
Authors: Olvera-Angeles Miguel , Arines Justo , Acosta Eva
Published: November 2024

The refractive index of the lenses used in optical designs varies with wavelength, causing light rays to fail when focusing on a single plane. This phenomenon is known as chromatic aberration (CA), chromatic distortion, or color fringing, among other terms. Images affected by CA display colored halos and experience a loss of resolution. Fully achromatic systems can be achieved through complex and costly lens designs and/or computationally when digital sensors capture the image. In this work, we propose using the wavefront coding (WFC) technique with a trefoil-shaped phase modulation plate in the optical system to effectively increase the resolution of images affected by longitudinal chromatic aberration (LCA), significantly simplifying the optical design and reducing costs. Experimental results with three LEDs simulating RGB images verify that WFC with trefoil phase plates effectively corrects longitudinal chromatic aberration. Transverse chromatic aberration (TCA) is corrected computationally. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the optical system maintains depth of focus (DoF) for color images.
Toward Single-Shot Real-Time Spectroscopy of Dynamic Materials via White-Light and Supercontinuum Light Sources
Authors: Bolatbek Zhanibek , Agha Imad
Published: November 2024

In conventional camera or monochromator-based spectroscopy, different wavelengths, spanning from short ultraviolet region to long infrared region, are calculated under steady-state conditions due to the temporally multiplexed nature of conventional CMOS/CCD-equipped spectrometers, which limit the refresh rates to the order of milliseconds for most tools available on the market. These refresh rates might not be suitable for most temporally dynamic effects that govern the behavior of disparate effects, such as phase transition in phase-change materials, conformal changes in molecules, and microbial community evolution, among others. Pump-probe methods are often presented as a solution to the capture speed limitation, but in themselves are not applicable universally and are not truly “real-time”. In this work, we present an evolution to the conventional spectrometers, increasing its speed by over 4 orders of magnitude while maintaining reasonable spectral resolution. We additionally present a path that combines our technique with supercontinuum light sources for even more ambitious future applications.
An Integrative Analysis of the Transcriptome and Proteome of Rice Grain Chalkiness Formation Under High Temperature
Authors: Zhao Shaolu , Cao Ruijie , Sun Linhe , Zhuang Dongying , Zhong Min , Zhao Fengli , Jiao Guiai , Chen Pengfei , Li Xinwei , Duan Yingqing , Li Xiaoxue , Tang Shaoqing , Ni Shen , Hu Peisong , Wei Xiangjin
Published: November 2024

Exposure to high temperatures can impair the grain-filling process in rice (Oryza sativa L.), potentially leading to the formation of chalky endosperm, but the molecular regulation mechanism remains largely elusive. Here, we reported that high-temperature (HT) stress (day/night, 35 °C/30 °C) reduces both the grain-filling rate and grain weight of Ningjing 1 variety compared to normal temperatures (NT, day/night, 28 °C/23 °C). Grains under HT stress exhibited an opaque, milky-white appearance, alongside significant alterations in starch physicochemical properties. An integrated transcriptomic analysis of grains under HT revealed up-regulation of genes related to defense mechanisms and oxidoreductase activity, while genes involved in sucrose and starch synthesis were down-regulated, and α-amylase genes were up-regulated. Proteomic analysis of grains under HT echoed this pattern. These results demonstrate that high temperature during the grain-filling stage significantly increases rice chalkiness by down-regulating genes related to sucrose and starch synthesis, while up-regulating those involved in starch degradation.
CRISPR/Cas: An Emerging Toolbox for Engineering Virus Resistance in Plants
Authors: Zhan Xiaohui , Zhang Fengjuan , Li Ning , Xu Kai , Wang Xiaodi , Gao Shenghua , Yin Yanxu , Yuan Weiling , Chen Weifang , Ren Zhiyong , Yao Minghua , Wang Fei
Published: November 2024

Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/Cas have been recognized as powerful genome-editing tools in diverse eukaryotic species, including plants, and thus hold great promise for engineering virus resistance in plants. Nevertheless, further attention is required regarding various issues associated with applying new powerful technologies in the field. This mini-review focuses on the recent advances in using CRISPR/Cas9 and CRISPR/Cas13 systems to combat DNA and RNA viruses in plants. We explored the utility of CRISPR/Cas for targeting the viral genome and editing host susceptibility genes in plants. We also provide insights into the limitations and challenges of using CRISPR/Cas for plant virus interference and propose individual combinatorial solutions. In conclusion, CRISPR/Cas technology has the potential to offer innovative and highly efficient approaches for controlling viruses in important crops in the near future.
Influence of Recycling and UV Exposure on the Properties of 3D Printing Polymer Materials
Authors: Janutėnienė Jolanta , Vasylius Marius , Tadžijevas Artūras , Kartašovas Valentinas , Šapalas Deivydas , Grigaliūnienė Simona
Published: November 2024

The use of polymer materials in various fields has increased significantly due to their ease of thermoforming and relatively low production costs. The production volume of these materials is extremely high, and according to forecasts from global statistical centers, it is expected to continue rising in the future. However, the extensive use and easy availability of polymeric materials have caused significant ecological problems. The world faces large amounts of polymer waste and environmental pollution. Plastic recycling remains challenging due to issues related to sorting polymer waste and separating it according to polymer types. Recycling certain plastics requires only a quarter of the energy needed to produce new plastic. To address this, circular economy principles should be applied to 3D printing products made from polymeric materials. A particularly wide application of these technologies is found when polymeric materials are used due to their low cost, low melting temperatures, and other advantageous properties. This paper investigates the impact of plastic recycling on the quality of 3D-printed products. During the research, samples were 3D printed and tested using both virgin and recycled PLA, ABS, and PET-G materials. The samples underwent static and dynamic tests to determine their mechanical properties, such as tensile strength, elongation, and impact resistance. The research results showed that the properties of recycled polymer materials deteriorate, with relative elongation of recycled and 3D-printed materials decreased by 16–45%. Despite this, recycled polymer materials can still be used, but it is necessary to account for the reduction in plasticity when creating products that will be exposed to dynamic loads. The impact strength is reduced by 6% for PLA, 54% for ABS, and 58% for PET-G. Additionally, the research included tests on samples printed with 3D printing technology that were exposed to UV irradiation. The results indicated similar dependences, as UV exposure also affects the reduction of material plasticity. After 66 Wh/m2 of UV radiation, the tensile strength of PET-G and PLA decreased by 17%, while ABS showed a reduction of about 5%.
Deep Fat Frying Characteristics of Malpoa: Kinetics, Heat, and Mass Transfer Modeling
Authors: Gupta Puneeta , Mondal Imdadul Hoque , Dash Kshirod Kumar , Geetika  , Suthar Tejas , Ramzan Khadija , Harsanyi Endre , Shaikh Ayaz Mukarram , Béla Kovács
Published: November 2024

This article investigated deep-frying characteristics of malpoa for varied frying time (2–10 min) and temperature (170–190 °C). The evaluation encompassed a comprehensive analysis of textural and color kinetics and heat and mass transfer modeling during deep fat frying of malpoa balls. Such investigations confirmed an enhancement in fat content from 10.2 to 41.65%. On the other hand, textural properties such as hardness, cohesiveness, and springiness varied from 3.14 to 22.59 N/mm, 0.22 to 0.76, and 15.5 to 49.56, respectively. Similarly, color parameters such as b*/a* and ΔE varied from 3.31 to 1.55 and 55.36 to 75.48. For the textural and color kinetics, the activation energies ranged between 58.65 and 85.82 kJ/mol and 31.34 and 64.34 kJ/mol. Similarly, for a variation in frying time from 2 to 10 min, responses (hardness, cohesiveness, springiness, and overall color) varied across the following ranges: 3.15–13.57 N, 0.22–0.66, 15.5–35.5, and 55.63–63.50 and 5.60–20.60 N, 0.30–0.77, 22.35–49.56, and 62.26–75.65 for temperatures of 170 and 190 degrees, respectively. On the other hand, heat and mass transfer analysis indicated a Biot number and heat transfer coefficient within the range of 0.31–0.65 and 25.58–34.64 for 170–190 °C. Thus, this investigation provides a deeper insight of the deep fat frying characteristics of malpoa. This provides a guideline for the food processing sector for such products.
Towards Sustainability in Hydraulic Machinery Manufacturing by 3D Printing
Authors: Remache Abel , Pérez-Sánchez Modesto , Hidalgo Víctor Hugo , Ramos Helena M. , Sánchez-Romero Francisco-Javier
Published: November 2024

Material wear, maintenance costs, performance, efficiency, and corrosion are some of the issues that turbomachinery impellers may encounter. The optimization of impellers through additive manufacturing (AM) has been the focus of extensive research, aiming to address these challenges in turbine, pump, compressor, fan, and mixer components. This research aims to identify and analyze the main techniques currently being developed to tackle several of these issues. Evaluating the published research, the methodology highlights various AM techniques applied to impellers and related components, as well as the diverse materials used in functional system elements. The analysis revealed that the most commonly used additive manufacturing technologies for the production of turbomachinery components are FDM, with a 22% application rate, and powder bed fusion technology, accounting for 35%, utilized for high-complexity parts and even superalloys. Although more expensive, these technologies employ materials with superior resistance capabilities, surpass the limitations of conventional machining, optimize manufacturing times, and allow for the fine-tuning of multiple parameters. In terms of wear and corrosion resistance, materials such as Inconel 718 exhibited a loss of less than 0.1 mpy (mils per year) in highly corrosive environments, representing a significant improvement over traditional materials.
Impact of Shade Selection on Prosthodontic Outcomes: A Comparative Analysis of Dental Students’ and Practitioners’ Awareness
Authors: Gad Mohammed M. , Al Shehab Sujood S. , Al Dawood Zainab H. , Al Zaher Rabab H. , Khan Soban Q. , Taymour Noha , Mahrous Amr A.
Published: November 2024

Background: Shade selection is a critical procedure of any esthetic prosthodontic treatment process. Despite its importance, there is a concern regarding the awareness and knowledge of shade selection among dental students and practitioners. Purpose: To evaluate the knowledge of dental students and practitioners regarding shade selection principles and investigate the differences in aesthetic prioritization between fixed and removable prostheses. Additionally, to investigate the emphasis placed on aesthetics in removable prosthetic cases compared to fixed prostheses, and to examine how this emphasis differs between dental students and experienced practitioners. Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted involving students and dental practitioners. The questionnaire consisted of multiple-choice questions designed to evaluate participants’ knowledge of shade selection principles and methods used in contemporary dental clinical practice and the perceived impact on treatment outcomes in Saudi Arabia. This study involved 554 participants, divided into three groups: 117 who treated fixed cases, 51 who treated removable cases, and 398 who treated both fixed and removable cases. The collected data was tabulated for data analysis using the Mann–Whitney U test and the Kruskal–Wallis test to generate the significance per category. Results: The study revealed no significant differences in knowledge and practice scores across the demographic factors for participants who exclusively treated either fixed or removable cases, suggesting a uniformity in expertise and application. However, among participants who managed both fixed and removable cases, significant variations emerged based on gender, age, and educational or professional level. Notably, a statistically significant disparity (p < 0.05) was observed in the comprehension of digital shade-matching technology, with practicing dentists exhibiting a higher level of awareness compared to dental students. Conclusions: The study concluded that age, gender, and education level significantly impact the knowledge and practice of shade selection. The findings highlighted a concerning gap in the awareness and knowledge regarding shade selection by dental students compared to practitioners, which emphasizes the need for enhanced educational training programs focusing on shade selection techniques and their implications for prosthodontic outcomes.
Between Christ and Alexander: Strands of Typological Exegesis in Pseudo-Methodius’s Apocalypse
Authors: Giardini Marco
Published: November 2024

The article provides of comprehensive examination of the main examples of typological exegesis that substantiate the eschatological framework of Pseudo-Methodius’s Syriac Apocalypse. In particular, the articles pays attention at Pseudo-Methodius’s original use of earlier Syriac writings (especially the Cave of the Treasures and the corpus of early seventh-century eschatological literature centered around the figure of Alexander the Great) which offered the material for original typological exegesis of crucial events in the universal history; additionally, the article reassesses the most original motif of Pseudo-Methodius’s representation of the “Last World Emperor” as the scion of the “Ethiopian” royal dynasty and provides some final remarks on the possible function and signification of the “unknown East” in Pseudo-Methodius’s historical and eschatological account.
Advancing Seaweed Cultivation: Integrating Physics Constraint in Machine Learning for Enhanced Biomass Forecasting in IMTA Systems
Authors: Kunapinun Alisa , Fairman William , Wills Paul S. , Hanisak Dennis , Ouyang Bing
Published: November 2024

Monitoring seaweed growth rates and biomass is crucial for optimizing harvest strategies in aquaculture systems. While such a task can be managed manually on a small farm with a few seaweed tanks, it is not feasible on a commercial farm with 1000s of tanks. To this end, an Internet of Things (IoT) based seaweed growth monitoring system is being developed at Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute (HBOI) at Florida Atlantic University (FAU). Using the Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) system at HBOI as the test site, the project aims to develop a solution that allows farm managers to monitor seaweed growth remotely using automated sensors. An important component of this IoT solution is the machine learning-based prediction model. This study introduces an advanced Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM)-based approach for forecasting seaweed growth and biomass. In particular, an algae growth mathematical model driven by readily available environmental and aquaculture conditions has been integrated as a physical constraint in the LSTM model. This design addresses a principal challenge in this study—the lack of continuous ground truth measurements, as the biomass is recorded only at discrete intervals (e.g., initial, weekly partial harvests, and final harvest). The LSTM models are trained and evaluated for their predictive performance using experimental and synthetic data. Compared with the LSTM models with MSE loss function alone, the results showed that the model with a loss function under physics constraint achieved a significantly lower error in predicting seaweed growth. The rationale behind choosing LSTM over other state-of-the-art models is presented in the paper. This study highlights the potential of integrating machine learning with physical models to optimize seaweed cultivation and support sustainable aquaculture practices. The proposed methodology can seamlessly extend to the remote sensing data in other aquaculture settings.
Spatial-Temporal Evolution of Ecosystem Service Value in Guilin, China from 2000 to 2020: A Dual-Scale Perspective
Authors: Shi Chunhong , Yin Weize , Lv Zhuoran , Xiang Bo , Dou Xinyu , Zhang Lu
Published: November 2024

Assessing land use-based changes in ecosystem service values (ESVs) is a beneficial approach for land resource planning and ecologically sustainable development. Located in the south of China, Guilin is one of the first Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Innovation Demonstration Zones set up by China. It is a typical ecotourism city with an important ecological and economic status. In recent years, the time series, model fit, and spatial scale of ESV assessment in Guilin have needed to be improved in the context of rapid urbanization and natural change. In this study, an improved ESV assessment methodology was utilized to incorporate the effects of biomass, soil conservation, and precipitation and to adjust the equivalence factors based on the ratio of geographic and environmental parameters to the national average to make them heterogeneous in time and space in improving the practical fit of the assessment results. The study analyzed the evolution of land use and its contribution to ESVs in Guilin from 2000 to 2020. County and 3 km × 3 km grid scales were combined to reveal both broad and detailed spatial and temporal characteristics of ESVs in Guilin. The results show that the expansion of building land in Guilin is notable, and the amount of land use transfer continues to increase. ESVs fluctuated in a lateral S-shape, with significant differences in ESV effectiveness between counties, consistently high ESVs near waterbodies and ecological reserves, and low ESVs near commercial and industrial land and cultivated land. Despite the recovery trend in ESVs in the later years, there is still a gap between 2020 and 2000. To a certain extent, it helps Guilin optimize land allocation from different perspectives and promote ecological improvement and resource planning optimization.
Theory of Gas Purification by Liquid Absorber in Small Rotating Channels with Application to the Patented Rotational Absorber Device
Authors: Brouwers J. J. H.
Published: November 2024

A new design for absorbing vapour-phase impurities from gases is presented. It consists of small channels packed in a rotating vertical cylinder. Gas flows through the channels adjacent to a thin film of absorber liquid. The liquid film is pressed to the radially outward side of each channel by the centrifugal force and flows downwards by gravity. Formulae are presented which describe the concentration distributions of gaseous impurities subject to absorption in gas and liquid. Results include expressions for laminar and turbulent diffusion coefficients to be used in mass balance equations. The role of rotation is quantified including the effect on wavy motion and enhanced diffusion in the liquid layer. Application in design is indicated for the case of separation of the greenhouse gas CO2 from flue gases of fossil fuel combustion processes. At other equal dimensions, the height of the Rotational Absorber Device is calculated to be 25 times shorter than the enormous heights of conventional tray and packed columns.
Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis Method of Recombinant Collagen in Complex Matrix Based on HPLC-MS/MS
Authors: Gao Jianping , Jia Liping , Guo Zhenhu , Xu Liming , Fan Daidi , Zhang Guifeng
Published: November 2024

The purpose of this study is to achieve the quantitative detection of recombinant type III collagen (rh-COL-III) in dressings with complex matrix. First of all, the marker peptide (GEAGIPGVPGAK) of rhCOL-III was identified with HPLC-MS/MS. Then, a qualitative and quantitative method based on marker peptides was established and validated. In order to obtain higher sensitivity, a pretreatment method of liquid, gel, and ointment dressings was optimized. The reference material for quantification was combined using rhCOL-III and blank matrix of each dressing. The results indicated that the relative standard deviation (RSD) of the quantitative method was 2.77%, and the RSD of intraday and interday precision was 2.76% and 2.31%, respectively. The spiking recovery rate was between 80% and 90%. The optimal pretreatment method was Tris-HCl solvent replacement. The optimal trypsin concentration for the dressing solution was 20 μg in 500 μL. The method of preparing standard substances with a blank matrix can effectively eliminate the influence of the matrix effect on the quantitative results. The average spiking recovery rates of 50 μg/mL, 100 μg/mL, and 200 μg/mL in three different dressings ranged from 80% to 120%. The quantitative detection of limit (LOD) of rhCOL-III was 1 ng/mL, 2 ng/g, and 1 ng/g in liquid, ointment, and gel dressings.
The Problem of Hate Speech: Beliefs of Chilean Students About Hate Speech with an Emphasis on Gender Perspectives
Authors: Marolla-Gajardo Jesús , Díez-Bedmar María del Consuelo
Published: November 2024

This study examines hate speech with a gender perspective in the educational field, focusing on the beliefs of Chilean History degree students regarding its prevalence in their academic programs. Using a quantitative methodology with a representative sample (n = 998) and robust statistical reliability (99% confidence, and 4% margin of error), the research highlights the intersection of hate speech and teacher training. The findings reveal an urgent need for reforms in teacher training curricula to address hate speech effectively. Participants report insufficient tools to confront these challenges, both during their studies and in their future professional practice, exposing a critical gap in preparing educators to promote inclusive learning environments. The study emphasizes incorporating social justice and human rights education as fundamental components of teacher training, advocating for their integration into curricula to foster equity and respect for diversity. By addressing the complexities of hate speech within educational contexts, this research provides practical implications for policy reform and program development. These findings contribute significantly to the literature, offering actionable insights for combating hate speech and advancing gender-sensitive education while establishing a foundation for future research and practical interventions.
Vibrational Markers of a Model Circulating Metastatic Cells LLC-R9
Authors: Gnatyuk Olena , Kolesnyk Denys , Voitsitskyi Taras , Karakhim Sergiy , Nikolenko Andriy , Dementjev Andrej , Solyanik Galina , Dovbeshko Galyna
Published: November 2024

Metastasis in oncological diseases remains one of the main reasons for negative prognosis regarding treatment. Any new data on the biophysical and biochemical characteristics of circulating metastatic cells will help to develop a concept for antimetastatic therapy. In this study, we found a number of differences in the spectroscopic and morphological features of circulating metastatic cells. FT-IR and Raman spectra cultivated by adhesive and de-adhesive methods (with the latter used as a model for metastatic cells) have shown spectroscopic features, namely in FT-IR spectra in the region of CH stretching vibrations, which are associated with structural rearrangements in the cell membrane, as well as changes in the intensity and position of the PO2− group vibration bands correlated with proliferative activity. The spectral features in the regions of OH stretching and Amide I vibrations as well as other spectral markers of the metastatic cells grown under different cultivation conditions were derived. Raman spectra showed a redistribution of the amino acid Tyr/Trp (tryptophan to tyrosine) ratio and in Tyr doublet intensity in the region of 500–900 cm−1, as well as varying glycogen levels in different cells. The spectroscopic markers are in accordance with biochemical data. CARS and confocal optical microscopy were applied to determine the state of the cells and the F-actin expression level, which turned out to be higher for adhesive cells in comparison with de-adhesive cells. The shape and the morphological properties of the cells differ drastically. The correlation of vibrational markers with biochemical data and the cytofluorometric method was discussed.
Biomechanical Insights in Ancient Greek Combat Sports: A Static Analysis of Selected Pottery Depictions
Authors: Bourantanis Andreas , Nomikos Nikitas , Wang Weijie
Published: November 2024

Background: Though ancient Greece preserves many pictures of combat sports, there is limited research in terms of biomechanical analysis of their sports. This research aimed to investigate the Pankration postures of ancient Greek athletics, expecting to bridge the gap between historical sports practices and contemporary biomechanical applications. Methods: This study employed computer vision (OpenPose) to analyze two images, one as readiness and another as kicking postures, from ancient Greek Pankration by constructing a static multi-segmental model. Using Newton’s Laws, the models simulated the postures as presented in historical depictions, estimated joint forces and moments, and calculated weight distribution and ground reaction forces for these postures. Results: For the readiness posture, it was found that the right hind leg experienced significant forces, with the highest moment at the knee joint, while the ankle and hip joints showed similar slightly lower moments. The front leg encountered lower forces and moments. For the kick posture, the supporting leg experienced the highest moment at the knee, while the kicking leg showed minimal moments at the ankle, knee, and hip. Conclusions: The static analysis provided quantitative estimates of joint forces and moments in the depicted Pankration postures, suggesting that these postures were biomechanically effective for their intended functions in combat. While the analysis cannot confirm whether ancient athletes deliberately applied biomechanical principles, the results highlight the potential of biomechanical modeling to enhance our understanding of ancient sports practices. The research demonstrates the possible benefits of integrating static analysis with historical elements to study the physical demands and techniques of ancient combat sports.
A New Unified, Flexible, Scalable, and Inclusive Model for Ecological Problem-Solving
Authors: Crandall Amanda , Diedrich Jack , Struthers Blake , Tiemann Cole , Williams Christopher K.
Published: November 2024

Successful, lasting conservation action requires ecological problem-solving that is based on social and empirical science. To alleviate some of the burden associated with organizing the many factors germane to ecological problem-solving, we created an interactive flowchart (the Ecological Problem-Solving Flow Model (EPS Flow Model)) that is adaptable to different ecological problems at multiple spatial scales. Drawing on the strengths of existing models created for specific systems, species, or social dynamics, the EPS Flow Model is biologically relevant, socially inclusive, broadly applicable, locally adaptable, easy to understand, visually appealing, and features loop learning at all stages. To demonstrate how the EPS Flow Model can be used, we incorporate three case study examples that address different ecological problems at multiple spatial scales and in various stages of development. The EPS Flow Model is intended to aid natural resource professionals during the policy planning process to promote more effective and inclusive conservation actions.
Development of Sustainable Education Environments in Higher Education with Metaverse Applications
Authors: Suiçmez İslam , Ozansoy Kezban
Published: November 2024

In this study, the aim is to develop and evaluate the effectiveness of the curriculum within the scope of sustainable education based on metaverse applications for undergraduate students in the faculty of education. The “parallel–simultaneous design”, one of the mixed research methods in which quantitative and qualitative research methods are used together, was employed. After the needs analysis and content determination process, a total of thirty-nine students enrolled in the fall semester of the 2022–2023 academic year participated in the experimental process of the research. According to the expert opinions received, it has been revealed that the integration of technology and sustainable education is more difficult than the age groups of teachers. For this reason, the study was carried out with teacher candidates. It is clear that new teachers who receive training will play an important role in terms of creating a sustainable education system with innovative learning. Throughout this research, education was carried out in such a way that the experimental working environment was face-to-face. Courses were conducted on a weekly basis in a face-to-face classroom environment. Fourteen-week lesson plans were prepared in order to carry out teaching activities in line with sustainable education based on metaverse applications. In the second sub-objective of the study, when the effectiveness of the curriculum determined in terms of sustainable education based on metaverse applications was examined in the context of perceptions and attitude, it was found that there was a significant (positive) difference between the pre-tests and post-tests in favor of the post-test. In the third sub-objective of the study, it was found that the opinions of the teacher candidates about the effectiveness of the developed metaverse applications in the sustainable education course curriculum were positive.
Beyond Composting Basics: A Sustainable Development Goals—Oriented Strategic Guidance to IoT Integration for Composting in Modern Urban Ecosystems
Authors: Senadheera Uvin Eksith , Jayasanka Jasintha , Udayanga Dhanushka , Hewawasam Choolaka , Amila Buddhika , Takimoto Yuya , Hatamoto Masashi , Tadachika Nakayama
Published: November 2024

IoT-based composting provides clear advantages over conventional urban composting in areas such as enhanced monitoring, efficiency, resource utilization, and management. Bibliometric analysis of 121 publications on IoT-based urban composting identified critical research gaps and emphasizes the necessity for a strategic framework for full implementation and execution of sustainable development goals-oriented IoT-based composting in modern cities across. Under the key theme of IoT-based urbanized composting automation, 16.5% of publications focus on urbanized composting automation but overlook the system’s scalability. The lowest mean citations of 72.7 (22.3% of publications) in intelligent composting process optimization show the lack of broader applications. A total of 28.9% of total publications focus on urban composting sustainability assessment but lack IoT integration in their scope. The composting process, pollution, environmental impact, cost, and life cycle analysis of modern city composting share 19% and 13.3%, respectively. However, both key themes lack real-time monitoring, operation, and economic feasibility for scalable models. The article highlights a fragmented landscape providing sustainable development goals-oriented strategic guidance for the full implementation and execution of IoT-based composting facilities in modern city ecosystems. The article comprehensively explains the budgetary constraints, scalability, data management, technological compatibility, privacy, security, and regulatory compliance essential for sustainable operation.
Resilience as a Concept for Convergence Across Health, Systems, and Well-Being: An AI-Augmented Mapping of 50 Years of Resilience Research
Authors: Ekren Elizabeth , Tomasso Maria E. , Villagran Melinda M.
Published: November 2024

Resilience has become a focal point of academic research investigating the impact of adverse disruption to the well-being of people, systems, the built environment, ecosystems, and climate. However, the proliferation of this work has not been accompanied by increasing clarity about the core meaning of resilience as a singular construct, threatening its relevance and complicating its use in practice. To improve the application of resilience in cross-disciplinary and convergence approaches to sustainability and well-being research, this work synthesized resilience conceptualizations across disciplines with novel artificial intelligence (AI)-augmented approaches. Using open-source applications for text mining and machine-learning-based natural language processing algorithms for the examination of text-as-data, this work mapped the content of 50 years of academic resilience work (24,732 abstracts). Presented as thematic and statistical textual associations in a series of network maps and tables, the findings highlight how specific measurements, components, and terminologies of resilience relate to one another within and across disciplines, emphasizing what concepts can be used to bridge disciplinary boundaries. From this, a converged conceptualization is derived to answer theoretical questions about the nature of resilience and define it as a dynamic process of control through the stages of disruption and progression to an improved state thereafter. This conceptualization supports a cross-disciplinary meaning of resilience that can enhance its shared understanding among a variety of stakeholders, and ultimately, the rigor and uniformity of its application in addressing sustainability and well-being challenges across multiple domains.
Engineering Safety and Ethical Challenges in 2045 Artificial Intelligence Singularity
Authors: Suo Jing , Li Mingcan , Guo Jinhao , Sun Yan
Published: November 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) has rapidly advanced, increasingly showcasing its powerful learning and computational capabilities. This progress has resulted in significant breakthroughs in areas such as image processing, speech recognition, and autonomous driving. Scientists predict that by around 2045, AI will overcome existing technological barriers, allowing strong AI to surpass human intelligence. However, it will inevitably affect human social relationships and order. Ethical issues associated with AI technology, such as unemployment, privacy breaches, and discrimination, generate a sense of threat among people, resulting in a loss of confidence in AI, which hampers its sustainable progress. Therefore, AI ethical issues are not only significant topics in academia but also become critical concerns for individuals, society, and nations. This article aims to address the challenges of AI ethics safety and the erosion of human confidence, while promoting the sustainable development of AI. It presents an AI ethics safety framework that analyzes engineering ethics and human trust within the context of sustainable AI development, and it recommends governance methods and strategies informed by case studies. Furthermore, we propose evaluation criteria and methods, establishing early-warning thresholds to keep potential AI risks within acceptable limits. Finally, the future prospects for AI ethics safety are highlighted. We hope our research contributes to the sustainable development of AI, ensuring that the arrival of the AI singularity has a positive impact on society with a long-term harmonious coexistence between AI and humanity.
How Do Corporate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Factors Affect Financial Performance?
Authors: Che Xinxin , Song Chenhua , Li Jining
Published: November 2024

Responsible investments are becoming increasingly relevant in stakeholder decision-making, propelled by the emphasis on sustainable development. Specifically, enterprises should acknowledge the significance of creating value for multiple shareholders based on the environment, society, and corporate governance. In this article, we contribute to the theoretical and empirical literature on corporate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance in China. This paper employs a two-way fixed-effect model to examine the influence of ESG activities on financial performance, focusing on 3268 Shanghai and Shenzhen A-share companies that have consistently participated in such activities from 2011 to 2022. The findings indicate that improvements in ESG practices positively influence corporate financial performance, with property rights and industry categorization moderating this relationship. Furthermore, agency cost, financing cost, social reputation, market power, and enterprise innovation partially mediate ESG performance and financial performance. This study encourages enterprises to integrate sustainable value creation into the national development strategy, thereby achieving harmonious economic and social development.
A Curvature-Based Three-Dimensional Defect Detection System for Rotational Symmetry Tire
Authors: You Yifei , Jiao Wenhua , Chen Jinglong , Wang Zhaoyi , Liu Xiaofei , Liu Zhenwen , Chen Yuantao , Zhang Xiaofei
Published: November 2024

The efficient detection of tire sidewall defects is crucial for ensuring safety and quality control in manufacturing. Traditional inspection is slow and inconsistent, while automated methods fail to address the complexity and coexistence of multiple tire sidewall defects. To alleviate those shortcomings, this study develops a curvature-based three-dimensional (3D) defect detection system that leverages the inherent rotational symmetry of tire sidewalls, allowing for more accuracy and efficiency in detecting intricate tire sidewall defects. Firstly, a defect detection system is developed that collects the three-dimensional data of tires, enabling precise quality assessments and facilitating accurate defect identification. Secondly, a dataset encompassing various types of intricate tire sidewall defects is constructed. This study leverages normal vectors and surface variation features to conduct an in-depth analysis of the complex three-dimensional shapes of tire sidewalls, while incorporating optimized curvature calculations that significantly enhance detection accuracy and algorithm efficiency. Moreover, the approach enables the simultaneous detection of intricate defect types, such as scratches, transportation damage, and cuts, thereby improving the comprehensiveness and accuracy of the detection process. The experimental results demonstrate that the system achieves a detection accuracy of 95.3%, providing crucial technical support for tire quality control.
Exploring the Critical Success Factors Influencing the Outcome of Digital Transformation Initiatives in Government Organizations
Authors: Al Maazmi Abdalla , Piya Sujan , Araci Zehra Canan
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the previous studies on successful digital transformation initiatives in government organizations and deduces the tangible and intangible benefits to showcase some real-life examples and evidence. This article provides a thorough evaluation of the available literature on successful digital transformation initiatives. It analyzes 53 important success elements grouped across seven dimensions, giving a conceptual framework for executing digital transformation in government organizations. The research identifies key success elements that are crucial for digital transformation, emphasizing the importance of clear planning, flexibility, agility, and robust data security measures. This study provides practical insights for organizations aiming to undertake digital transformation initiatives, highlighting strategies to overcome hurdles and maximize benefits. This study contributes a proposed conceptual framework and empirical evidence to guide academics, professionals, and decision-makers in effectively navigating and leveraging digital transformation in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.