bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quercetin and Its Nano-Formulations for Brain Tumor Therapy—Current Developments and Future Perspectives for Paediatric Studies
Authors: Shala Aida Loshaj , Arduino Ilaria , Salihu Mimoza Basholli , Denora Nunzio
Published: March 2023

The development of efficient treatments for tumors affecting the central nervous system (CNS) remains an open challenge. Particularly, gliomas are the most malignant and lethal form of brain tumors in adults, causing death in patients just over 6 months after diagnosis without treatment. The current treatment protocol consists of surgery, followed using synthetic drugs and radiation. However, the efficacy of these protocols is associated with side effects, poor prognosis and with a median survival of fewer than two years. Recently, many studies were focused on applying plant-derived products to manage various diseases, including brain cancers. Quercetin is a bioactive compound derived from various fruits and vegetables (asparagus, apples, berries, cherries, onions and red leaf lettuce). Numerous in vivo and in vitro studies highlighted that quercetin through multitargeted molecular mechanisms (apoptosis, necrosis, anti-proliferative activity and suppression of tumor invasion and migration) effectively reduces the progression of tumor cells. This review aims to summarize current developments and recent advances of quercetin’s anticancer potential in brain tumors. Since all reported studies demonstrating the anti-cancer potential of quercetin were conducted using adult models, it is suggested to expand further research in the field of paediatrics. This could offer new perspectives on brain cancer treatment for paediatric patients.
Radiothermal Emission of Nanoparticles with a Complex Shape as a Tool for the Quality Control of Pharmaceuticals Containing Biologically Active Nanoparticles
Authors: Syroeshkin Anton V. , Petrov Gleb V. , Taranov Viktor V. , Pleteneva Tatiana V. , Koldina Alena M. , Gaydashev Ivan A. , Kolyabina Ekaterina S. , Galkina Daria A. , Sorokina Ekaterina V. , Uspenskaya Elena V. , Kazimova Ilaha V. , Morozova Mariya A. , Lebedeva Varvara V. , Cherepushkin Stanislav A. , Tarabrina Irina V. , Syroeshkin Sergey A. , Tertyshnikov Alexander V. , Grebennikova Tatiana V.
Published: March 2023

It has recently been shown that the titer of the SARS-CoV-2 virus decreases in a cell culture when the cell suspension is irradiated with electromagnetic waves at a frequency of 95 GHz. We assumed that a frequency range in the gigahertz and sub-terahertz ranges was one of the key aspects in the “tuning” of flickering dipoles in the dispersion interaction process of the surfaces of supramolecular structures. To verify this assumption, the intrinsic thermal radio emission in the gigahertz range of the following nanoparticles was studied: virus-like particles (VLP) of SARS-CoV-2 and rotavirus A, monoclonal antibodies to various RBD epitopes of SARS-CoV-2, interferon-α, antibodies to interferon-γ, humic–fulvic acids, and silver proteinate. At 37 °C or when activated by light with λ = 412 nm, these particles all demonstrated an increased (by two orders of magnitude compared to the background) level of electromagnetic radiation in the microwave range. The thermal radio emission flux density specifically depended on the type of nanoparticles, their concentration, and the method of their activation. The thermal radio emission flux density was capable of reaching 20 μW/(m2 sr). The thermal radio emission significantly exceeded the background only for nanoparticles with a complex surface shape (nonconvex polyhedra), while the thermal radio emission from spherical nanoparticles (latex spheres, serum albumin, and micelles) did not differ from the background. The spectral range of the emission apparently exceeded the frequencies of the Ka band (above 30 GHz). It was assumed that the complex shape of the nanoparticles contributed to the formation of temporary dipoles which, at a distance of up to 100 nm and due to the formation of an ultrahigh strength field, led to the formation of plasma-like surface regions that acted as emitters in the millimeter range. Such a mechanism makes it possible to explain many phenomena of the biological activity of nanoparticles, including the antibacterial properties of surfaces.
Dose-Effect Determination of a Neuroprotector Fraction Standardized in Coumarins of Tagetes lucida and Bioavailability
Authors: Santibáñez Anislada , Herrera-Ruiz Maribel , González-Cortazar Manasés , Nicasio-Torres Pilar , Sharma Ashutosh , Jiménez-Ferrer Enrique
Published: March 2023

Neurodegeneration has been associated with chronic inflammation states in the brain. For this reason, attention has been directed to drugs indicated as anti-inflammatory as possible therapies for the treatment of said conditions. Tagetes lucida has been widely used as a folk remedy in illnesses associated with the central nervous system and inflammatory ailments. Among the compounds that stand out in the plant against these conditions are coumarins, such as 7-O-prenyl scopoletin, scoparone, dimethylfraxetin, herniarin, and 7-O-prenylumbelliferone. Therefore, the relationship between the therapeutic effect and the concentration was evaluated through pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies, including vascular permeability evaluation by blue Evans and pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines quantification, under a neuroinflammation model induced by lipopolysaccharide by the oral administration of three different doses (5, 10, and 20 mg/kg) of a bioactive fraction of T. lucida. In the present study, it was found that all doses showed a neuroprotective and immunomodulatory effect, although the doses of 10 and 20 mg/kg were able to exert their effect for a longer time and to a greater extent. The protective effects of the fraction may be mainly associated with the DR, HR, and SC coumarins due to their structural profile and plasmatic and brain tissue bioavailability.
Effects of Dendrimer-microRNA Nanoformulations against Glioblastoma Stem Cells
Authors: Knauer Nadezhda , Meschaninova Mariya , Muhammad Sajjad , Hänggi Daniel , Majoral Jean-Pierre , Kahlert Ulf Dietrich , Kozlov Vladimir , Apartsin Evgeny K.
Published: March 2023

Glioblastoma is a rapidly progressing tumor quite resistant to conventional treatment. These features are currently assigned to a self-sustaining population of glioblastoma stem cells. Anti-tumor stem cell therapy calls for a new means of treatment. In particular, microRNA-based treatment is a solution, which in turn requires specific carriers for intracellular delivery of functional oligonucleotides. Herein, we report a preclinical in vitro validation of antitumor activity of nanoformulations containing antitumor microRNA miR-34a and microRNA-21 synthetic inhibitor and polycationic phosphorus and carbosilane dendrimers. The testing was carried out in a panel of glioblastoma and glioma cell lines, glioblastoma stem-like cells and induced pluripotent stem cells. We have shown dendrimer-microRNA nanoformulations to induce cell death in a controllable manner, with cytotoxic effects being more pronounced in tumor cells than in non-tumor stem cells. Furthermore, nanoformulations affected the expression of proteins responsible for interactions between the tumor and its immune microenvironment: surface markers (PD-L1, TIM3, CD47) and IL-10. Our findings evidence the potential of dendrimer-based therapeutic constructions for the anti-tumor stem cell therapy worth further investigation.
Advances in Radionuclides and Radiolabelled Peptides for Cancer Therapeutics
Authors: Chakraborty Kushal , Mondal Jagannath , An Jeong Man , Park Jooho , Lee Yong-Kyu
Published: March 2023

Radiopharmaceutical therapy, which can detect and treat tumours simultaneously, was introduced more than 80 years ago, and it has changed medical strategies with respect to cancer. Many radioactive radionuclides have been developed, and functional, molecularly modified radiolabelled peptides have been used to produce biomolecules and therapeutics that are vastly utilised in the field of radio medicine. Since the 1990s, they have smoothly transitioned into clinical application, and as of today, a wide variety of radiolabelled radionuclide derivatives have been examined and evaluated in various studies. Advanced technologies, such as conjugation of functional peptides or incorporation of radionuclides into chelating ligands, have been developed for advanced radiopharmaceutical cancer therapy. New radiolabelled conjugates for targeted radiotherapy have been designed to deliver radiation directly to cancer cells with improved specificity and minimal damage to the surrounding normal tissue. The development of new theragnostic radionuclides, which can be used for both imaging and therapy purposes, allows for more precise targeting and monitoring of the treatment response. The increased use of peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) is also important in the targeting of specific receptors which are overexpressed in cancer cells. In this review, we provide insights into the development of radionuclides and functional radiolabelled peptides, give a brief background, and describe their transition into clinical application.
Therapeutic Drug Monitoring of Vedolizumab in Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients during Maintenance Treatment—TUMMY Study
Authors: Sivridaş Merve , Creemers Rob H. , Wong Dennis R. , Boekema Paul J. , Römkens Tessa E. H. , Gilissen Lennard P. L. , van Bodegraven Adriaan A. , Loeff Floris C. , Rispens Theo , Derijks Luc J. J.
Published: March 2023

There are limited data on therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients treated with vedolizumab (VDZ). Although an exposure–response relation has been demonstrated in the post-induction phase, this relationship is more uncertain in the maintenance phase of treatment. The aim of our study was to determine whether there is an association between VDZ trough concentration and clinical and biochemical remission in the maintenance phase. A prospective, observational multicenter study has been performed on patients with IBD on VDZ in the maintenance treatment (≥14 weeks). Patient demographics, biomarkers, and VDZ serum trough concentrations were collected. Clinical disease activity was scored by the Harvey Bradshaw Index (HBI) for Crohn’s disease (CD) and the Simple Clinical Colitis Activity Index (SCCAI) for ulcerative colitis (UC). Clinical remission was determined as HBI < 5 and SCCAI < 3. Biochemical remission was defined as fecal calprotectin <250 mg/kg and serum CRP <5 mg/L. A total of 159 patients (59 CD, 100 UC) were included. In none of the patient groups, a statistically significant correlation between trough VDZ concentration and clinical remission was observed. Patients in biochemical remission had higher VDZ trough concentrations (p = 0.019). In this population, higher trough VDZ concentrations were associated with biochemical remission but not with clinical remission.
Osmoregulatory and Antioxidants Modulation by Salicylic Acid and Methionine in Cowpea Plants under the Water Restriction
Authors: Oliveira Auta Paulina da Silva , Melo Yuri Lima , de Alencar Rayanne Silva , Viégas Pedro Roberto Almeida , Dias Guilherme Felix , Ferraz Rener Luciano de Souza , Sá Francisco Vanies da Silva , Dantas Neto José , Magalhães Ivomberg Dourado , Gheyi Hans Raj , de Lacerda Claudivan Feitosa , Melo Alberto Soares de
Published: March 2023

Global climate changes have intensified water stress in arid and semi-arid regions, reducing plant growth and yield. In this scenario, the present study aimed to evaluate the mitigating action of salicylic acid and methionine in cowpea cultivars under water restriction conditions. An experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design with treatments set up in a 2 × 5 factorial arrangement corresponding to two cowpea cultivars (BRS Novaera and BRS Pajeú) and five treatments of water replenishment, salicylic acid, and methionine. After eight days, water stress decreased the Ψw, leaf area, and fresh mass and increased the total soluble sugars and catalase activity in the two cultivars. After sixteen days, water stress increased the activity of the superoxide dismutase and ascorbate peroxidase enzymes and decreased the total soluble sugars content and catalase activity of BRS Pajeú plants. This stress response was intensified in the BRS Pajeú plants sprayed with salicylic acid and the BRS Novaera plants with salicylic acid or methionine. BRS Pajeú is more tolerant to water stress than BRS Novaera; therefore, the regulations induced by the isolated application of salicylic acid and methionine were more intense in BRS Novaera, stimulating the tolerance mechanism of this cultivar to water stress.
Evaluation and Heritability Analysis of the Seed Vigor of Soybean Strains Tested in the Huanghuaihai Regional Test of China
Authors: Cheng Hao , Ye Mengyuan , Wu Tingting , Ma Hao
Published: March 2023

High seed vigor is a prerequisite for high and stable yield. At present, seed vigor is not considered a goal of soybean breeding in China. Therefore, the seed vigor status of soybean strains is unclear. In this study, the seed vigor of 131 soybean strains included in the Huanghuaihai regional test in 2019 was measured using the artificial accelerated aging method. Significant (p < 0.01) differences in seed vigor were found, with a coefficient of variation of four vigor indexes being more than 48%. The strains with high vigor only accounted for 28.24%, indicating the seed quality of the tested strains was generally not high. Furthermore, the seed vigor of four representative strains selected from each of three vigor types was evaluated using multiyear and multilocation experiments. The seed vigor indexes of high-vigor-type strains were the most stable, while medium- and low-vigor-type strains varied under different environmental conditions. The generalized heritability of the four vigor indexes of the three vigor types was more than 51% and in the order of high vigor type > low vigor type > medium vigor type. Our results suggested that the genotypes of high-vigor-type strains have a greater influence on seed vigor, so to ensure varieties with high seed vigor, this criterion should be prioritized in soybean breeding programs in China.
Exploring Variability of Free Asparagine Content in the Grain of Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Varieties Cultivated in Italy to Reduce Acrylamide-Forming Potential
Authors: Tafuri Andrea , Zuccaro Melania , Ravaglia Stefano , Pirona Raul , Masci Stefania , Sestili Francesco , Lafiandra Domenico , Ceriotti Aldo , Baldoni Elena
Published: March 2023

Acrylamide, a suspected human carcinogen, is generated during food processing at high temperatures in the Maillard reaction, which involves reducing sugars and free asparagine. In wheat derivatives, free asparagine represents a key factor in acrylamide formation. Free asparagine levels in the grain of different wheat genotypes has been investigated in recent studies, but little is known about elite varieties that are cultivated in Italy. Here, we analysed the accumulation of free asparagine in a total of 54 bread wheat cultivars that are relevant for the Italian market. Six field trials in three Italian locations over two years were considered. Wholemeal flours obtained from harvested seeds were analysed using an enzymatic method. Free asparagine content ranged from 0.99 to 2.82 mmol/kg dry matter in the first year, and from 0.55 to 2.84 mmol/kg dry matter in the second year. Considering the 18 genotypes that were present in all the field trials, we evaluated possible environment and genetic influences for this trait. Some cultivars seemed to be highly affected by environment, whereas others showed a relative stability in free asparagine content across years and locations. Finally, we identified two varieties showing the highest free asparagine levels in our analysis, representing potential useful materials for genotype x environment interaction studies. Two other varieties, which were characterized by low amounts of free asparagine in the considered samples, may be useful for the food industry and for future breeding programs aimed to reduce acrylamide-forming potential in bread wheat.
Dispersion and Homogeneity of MgO and Ag Nanoparticles Mixed with Polymethylmethacrylate
Authors: Arf Awder Nuree , Kareem Fadil Abdullah , Gul Sarhang Sarwat
Published: March 2023

This study aims to examine the impact of the direct and indirect mixing techniques on the dispersion and homogeneity of magnesium oxide (MgO) and silver (Ag) nanoparticles (NPs) mixed with polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA). NPs were mixed with PMMA powder directly (non-ethanol-assisted) and indirectly (ethanol-assisted) with the aid of ethanol as solvent. X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and scanning electron microscope (SEM) were used to evaluate the dispersion and homogeneity of MgO and Ag NPs within the PMMA-NPs nanocomposite matrix. Prepared discs of PMMA-MgO and PMMA-Ag nanocomposite were analyzed for dispersion and agglomeration by Stereo microscope. XRD showed that the average crystallite size of NPs within PMMA-NP nanocomposite powder was smaller in the case of ethanol-assisted mixing compared to non-ethanol-assisted mixing. Furthermore, EDX and SEM revealed good dispersion and homogeneity of both NPs on PMMA particles with ethanol-assisted mixing compared to the non-ethanol-assisted one. Again, the PMMA-MgO and PMMA-Ag nanocomposite discs were found to have better dispersion and no agglomeration with ethanol-assisted mixing when compared to the non-ethanol-assisted mixing technique. Ethanol-assisted mixing of MgO and Ag NPs with PMMA powder obtained better dispersion, better homogeneity, and no agglomeration of NPs within the PMMA-NP matrix.
Structure and Thermomechanical Properties of Polyvinylidene Fluoride Film with Transparent Indium Tin Oxide Electrodes
Authors: Solodilov Vitaliy , Kochervinskii Valentin , Osipkov Alexey , Makeev Mstislav , Maltsev Aleksandr , Yurkov Gleb , Lokshin Boris , Bedin Sergey , Shapetina Maria , Tretyakov Ilya , Petrova Tuyara
Published: March 2023

This paper is devoted to the study of the structure and thermomechanical properties of PVDF-based ferroelectric polymer film. Transparent electrically conductive ITO coatings are applied to both sides of such a film. In this case, such material acquires additional functional properties due to piezoelectric and pyroelectric effects, forming, in fact, a full-fledged flexible transparent device, which, for example, will emit a sound when an acoustic signal is applied, and under various external influences can generate an electrical signal. The use of such structures is associated with the influence of various external influences on them: thermomechanical loads associated with mechanical deformations and temperature effects during operation, or when applying conductive layers to the film. The article presents structure investigation and its change during high-temperature annealing using IR spectroscopy and comparative results of testing a PVDF film before and after deposition of ITO layers for uniaxial stretching, its dynamic mechanical analysis, DSC, as well as measurements of the transparency and piezoelectric properties of such structure. It is shown that the temperature-time mode of deposition of ITO layers has little effect on the thermal and mechanical properties of PVDF films, taking into account their work in the elastic region, slightly reducing the piezoelectric properties. At the same time, the possibility of chemical interactions at the polymer–ITO interface is shown.
The Key to Solving Plastic Packaging Wastes: Design for Recycling and Recycling Technology
Authors: Ding Qian , Zhu Heping
Published: March 2023

Confronted with serious environmental problems caused by the growing mountains of plastic packaging waste, the prevention and control of plastic waste has become a major concern for most countries. In addition to the recycling of plastic wastes, design for recycling can effectively prevent plastic packaging from turning into solid waste at the source. The reasons are that the design for recycling can extend the life cycle of plastic packaging and increase the recycling values of plastic waste; moreover, recycling technologies are helpful for improving the properties of recycled plastics and expanding the application market for recycled materials. This review systematically discussed the present theory, practice, strategies, and methods of design for recycling plastic packaging and extracted valuable advanced design ideas and successful cases. Furthermore, the development status of automatic sorting methods, mechanical recycling of individual and mixed plastic waste, as well as chemical recycling of thermoplastic and thermosetting plastic waste, were comprehensively summarized. The combination of the front-end design for recycling and the back-end recycling technologies can accelerate the transformation of the plastic packaging industry from an unsustainable model to an economic cycle model and then achieve the unity of economic, ecological, and social benefits.
Theoretical and Experimental Investigations of Diffraction Characteristics Influenced by Holographic Reciprocity Effect in PQ/PMMA Polymers
Authors: Liu Peng , Sun Xiudong
Published: March 2023

We propose the holographic reciprocity effect (HRE) to describe the relationship between the exposure duration (ED) and the growth rate of diffraction efficiency (GRoDE) in volume holographic storage. The HRE process is investigated experimentally and theoretically in order to avoid the diffraction attenuation. Herein, introducing the medium absorption, we present a comprehensive probabilistic model to describe the HRE. PQ/PMMA polymers are fabricated and investigated to reveal the influence of HRE on the diffraction characteristics through two recording approaches: pulsed exposure with nanosecond (ns) level and continuous wave (CW) exposure at the millisecond (ms) level. We obtain the holographic reciprocity matching (HRM) range of ED in PQ/PMMA polymers with 10−6~102 s level and improve the response time to microsecond (μs) order with no diffraction deficiency. This work can promote the application of volume holographic storage in high-speed transient information accessing technology.
Emerging Trends in Biodegradable Microcarriers for Therapeutic Applications
Authors: Handral Harish K. , Wyrobnik Tom Adam , Lam Alan Tin-Lun
Published: March 2023

Microcarriers (MCs) are adaptable therapeutic instruments that may be adjusted to specific therapeutic uses, making them an appealing alternative for regenerative medicine and drug delivery. MCs can be employed to expand therapeutic cells. MCs can be used as scaffolds for tissue engineering, as well as providing a 3D milieu that replicates the original extracellular matrix, facilitating cell proliferation and differentiation. Drugs, peptides, and other therapeutic compounds can be carried by MCs. The surface of the MCs can be altered, to improve medication loading and release, and to target specific tissues or cells. Allogeneic cell therapies in clinical trials require enormous volumes of stem cells, to assure adequate coverage for several recruitment locations, eliminate batch to batch variability, and reduce production costs. Commercially available microcarriers necessitate additional harvesting steps to extract cells and dissociation reagents, which reduces cell yield and quality. To circumvent such production challenges, biodegradable microcarriers have been developed. In this review, we have compiled key information relating to biodegradable MC platforms, for generating clinical-grade cells, that permit cell delivery at the target site without compromising quality or cell yields. Biodegradable MCs could also be employed as injectable scaffolds for defect filling, supplying biochemical signals for tissue repair and regeneration. Bioinks, coupled with biodegradable microcarriers with controlled rheological properties, might improve bioactive profiles, while also providing mechanical stability to 3D bioprinted tissue structures. Biodegradable materials used for microcarriers have the ability to solve in vitro disease modeling, and are advantageous to the biopharmaceutical drug industries, because they widen the spectrum of controllable biodegradation and may be employed in a variety of applications.
Optimization for the Contrary-Rotating Double-Screw Extrusion of Plastics
Authors: Nastaj Andrzej , Wilczyński Krzysztof
Published: March 2023

A novel computer optimization system for the contrary-rotating double-screw extrusion of plastics was developed in this study. The optimization was based on the process simulation performed with the use of the global contrary-rotating double-screw extrusion software TSEM. The process was optimized using the GASEOTWIN software developed for this purpose using genetic algorithms. Several examples of optimization of the contrary-rotating double screw extrusion process parameters, i.e., the extrusion throughput, and minimize the plastic melt temperature and the plastic melting length.
Eco-Friendly Tannin-Based Non-Isocyanate Polyurethane Resins for the Modification of Ramie (Boehmeria nivea L.) Fibers
Authors: Aristri Manggar Arum , Sari Rita Kartika , Lubis Muhammad Adly Rahandi , Laksana Raden Permana Budi , Antov Petar , Iswanto Apri Heri , Mardawati Efri , Lee Seng Hua , Savov Viktor , Kristak Lubos , Papadopoulos Antonios N.
Published: March 2023

This study aimed to develop tannin-based non-isocyanate polyurethane (tannin-Bio-NIPU) and tannin-based polyurethane (tannin-Bio-PU) resins for the impregnation of ramie fibers (Boehmeria nivea L.) and investigate their mechanical and thermal properties. The reaction between the tannin extract, dimethyl carbonate, and hexamethylene diamine produced the tannin-Bio-NIPU resin, while the tannin-Bio-PU was made with polymeric diphenylmethane diisocyanate (pMDI). Two types of ramie fiber were used: natural ramie without pre-treatment (RN) and with pre-treatment (RH). They were impregnated in a vacuum chamber with tannin-based Bio-PU resins for 60 min at 25 °C under 50 kPa. The yield of the tannin extract produced was 26.43 ± 1.36%. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy showed that both resin types produced urethane (-NCO) groups. The viscosity and cohesion strength of tannin-Bio-NIPU (20.35 mPa·s and 5.08 Pa) were lower than those of tannin-Bio-PU (42.70 mPa·s and 10.67 Pa). The RN fiber type (18.9% residue) was more thermally stable than RH (7.3% residue). The impregnation process with both resins could improve the ramie fibers’ thermal stability and mechanical strength. The highest thermal stability was found in RN impregnated with the tannin-Bio-PU resin (30.5% residue). The highest tensile strength was determined in the tannin-Bio-NIPU RN of 451.3 MPa. The tannin-Bio-PU resin gave the highest MOE for both fiber types (RN of 13.5 GPa and RH of 11.7 GPa) compared to the tannin-Bio-NIPU resin.
Compression-Softening Bond Model for Non-Water Reactive Foaming Polyurethane Grouting Material
Authors: Dong Boyuan , Du Mingrui , Fang Hongyuan , Wang Fuming , Zhang Haoyue , Zhu Longhui
Published: March 2023

In this study, the uniaxial compression and cyclic loading and unloading experiments were conducted on the non-water reactive foaming polyurethane (NRFP) grouting material with a density of 0.29 g/cm3, and the microstructure was characterized using scanning electron microscope (SEM) method. Based on the uniaxial compression and SEM characterization results and the elastic-brittle-plastic assumption, a compression softening bond (CSB) model describing the mechanical behavior of micro-foam walls under compression was proposed, and it was assigned to the particle units in a particle flow code (PFC) model simulating the NRFP sample. Results show that the NRFP grouting materials are porous mediums consisting of numerous micro-foams, and with the increasing density, the diameter of the micro-foams increases and the micro-foam walls become thicker. Under compression, the micro-foam walls crack, and the cracks are mainly perpendicular to the loading direction. The compressive stress–strain curve of the NRFP sample contains the linear increasing stage, yielding stage, yield plateau stage, and strain hardening stage, and the compressive strength and elastic modulus are 5.72 MPa and 83.2 MPa, respectively. Under the cyclic loading and unloading, when the number of cycles increases, the residual strain increases, and there is little difference between the modulus during the loading and unloading processes. The stress–strain curves of the PFC model under uniaxial compression and cyclic loading and unloading are consistent with the experimental ones, well indicating the feasibility of using the CSB model and PFC simulation method to study the mechanical properties of NRFP grouting materials. The failure of the contact elements in the simulation model causes the yielding of the sample. The yield deformation propagates almost perpendicular to the loading direction and is distributed in the material layer by layer, which ultimately results in the bulging deformation of the sample. This paper provides a new insight into the application of the discrete element numerical method in NRFP grouting materials.
Influence of Sulfododecenylsuccinylation on the Adhesion to Fibers and Film Properties of Corn Starch for Warp Sizing
Authors: Zhang Chaohui , Li Wei , Xu Zhenzhen
Published: March 2023

To improve the film brittleness and adhesion to fibers of dodecenylsuccinated starch (DSS), DSS samples were sulfonated with excess NaHSO3 to prepare a series of sulfododecenylsuccinated starch (SDSS) samples with different degrees of substitution (DS). Their adhesion to fibers, surface tensions, film tensile properties and crystallinities, and moisture regains were studied. The results showed that the SDSS was superior to DSS and acid-thinned starch (ATS) in the adhesion to cotton and polyester fibers and breaking elongation of film but was inferior to them in tensile strength and degree of crystallinity of film, which revealed that sulfododecenylsuccination could further improve the adhesion of ATS to both fibers and reduce its film brittleness compared to starch dodecenylsuccination. With the increase in the DS, the adhesion to both fibers and the film elongation of SDSS gradually increased and then decreased, while its film strength consistently decreased. Considering adhesion and film properties, the SDSS samples with a DS range of 0.024-0.030 were recommended.
Prussian Blue Analogue-Derived Fe-Doped CoS2 Nanoparticles Confined in Bayberry-like N-Doped Carbon Spheres as Anodes for Sodium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Hu Jiajia , Liu Cheng , Cai Chen , Sun Qianqian , Lu Mixue , Yao Zhujun , Yang Yefeng
Published: March 2023

Obvious volume change and the dissolution of polysulfide as well as sluggish kinetics are serious issues for the development of high performance metal sulfide anodes for sodium-ion batteries (SIBs), which usually result in fast capacity fading during continuous sodiation and desodiation processes. In this work, by utilizing a Prussian blue analogue as functional precursors, small Fe-doped CoS2 nanoparticles spatially confined in N-doped carbon spheres with rich porosity were synthesized through facile successive precipitation, carbonization, and sulfurization processes, leading to the formation of bayberry-like Fe-doped CoS2/N-doped carbon spheres (Fe-CoS2/NC). By introducing a suitable amount of FeCl3 in the starting materials, the optimal Fe-CoS2/NC hybrid spheres with the designed composition and pore structure exhibited superior cycling stability (621 mA h g−1 after 400 cycles at 1 A g−1) and improved the rate capability (493 mA h g−1 at 5 A g−1). This work provides a new avenue for the rational design and synthesis of high performance metal sulfide-based anode materials toward SIBs.
Identifying the Most Efficient Natural Fibre for Common Commercial Building Insulation Materials with an Integrated PSI, MEREC, LOPCOW and MCRAT Model
Authors: Ulutaş Alptekin , Balo Figen , Topal Ayşe
Published: March 2023

Building insulation is the most respected among the compatible and effective energy conservation technologies available today, as it also reduces yearly energy costs and negative environmental effects. A building envelope is made up of various insulation materials that are important in determining a building’s thermal performance. Proper insulation material selection concludes in less energy requisition for operation. The purpose of this research is to supply information about natural fibre insulating materials used in construction insulation to maintain energy efficiency, as well as to recommend the most efficient natural fibre insulation material. As in most decision-making problems, several criteria and alternatives are involved in insulation material selection, too. Therefore, we used a novel integrated multi criteria decision making (MCDM) model including the preference selection index (PSI), method based on the removal effects of criteria (MEREC), logarithmic percentage change-driven objective weighting (LOPCOW), and multiple criteria ranking by alternative trace (MCRAT) methods to deal with the complexity of numerous criteria and alternatives. The contribution of this study is that a new hybrid MCDM method is developed. Additionally, the number of studies using the MCRAT method is very limited in the literature; therefore, this study will provide more insights into and results of this method to the literature.
The Cellular Structure and Toughness of Hydrogenated Styrene-Butadiene Block Copolymer Reinforced Polypropylene Foams
Authors: Guo Wei , Zheng Zicheng , Li Wei , Li Hao , Zeng Fankun , Mao Huajie
Published: March 2023

Polypropylene nanocomposites containing varying amounts of Styrene-ethylene-butadiene-styrene block copolymer (SEBS) were prepared through the supercritical nitrogen microcellular injection-molding process. Maleic anhydride (MAH)-grafted polypropylene (PP-g-MAH) copolymers were used as compatibilizers. The influence of SEBS content on the cell structure and toughness of the SEBS/PP composites was investigated. Upon the addition of SEBS, the differential scanning calorimeter tests revealed that the grain size of the composites decreased, and their toughness increased. The results of the rheological behavior tests showed that the melt viscosity of the composite increased, playing a role in enhancing the cell structure. With the addition of 20 wt% SEBS, the cell diameter decreased from 157 to 66.7 μm, leading to an improvement in the mechanical properties. Compared to pure PP material, the impact toughness of the composites rose by 410% with 20 wt% of SEBS. Microstructure images of the impact section displayed evident plastic deformation, effectively absorbing energy and improving the material’s toughness. Furthermore, the composites exhibited a significant increase in toughness in the tensile test, with the foamed material’s elongation at break being 960% higher than that of pure PP foamed material when the SEBS content was 20%.
Effect of Generator Rotor Radial Deviation on the Unbalanced Magnetic Pull of 1000 MW Hydro-Generator Unit
Authors: Zhang Jiwen , Zhang Jianwei , Huang Xingxing , Chen Gaoqiang , Wang Zhengwei , You Congdong
Published: March 2023

The 1000 MW hydro-generator unit has huge geometrical dimensions and requires high installation accuracy. The control of its installation deviation will directly affect the installation quality and operational performance of the unit and the rotor eccentricity is one of the core problems faced in the installation and operation of the giant hydro-generator unit. This paper presents a method to calculate the asymmetric magnetic field by means of the transient finite element calculation to reveal the effect of the generator rotor radial deviation on the unbalanced magnetic pull of the unit. The effects of rotor dynamic eccentricity on the magnetic field are analyzed in the time and frequency domains, respectively. The results show that both the DC component and the key harmonic component of the unbalanced magnetic pull increase with the increase of the eccentricity value, and this variation relationship is nearly linear. when the eccentricity is no more than 0.15 mm, the unbalanced magnetic pull caused by the rotor eccentricity is calculated to be small, which is acceptable. The conclusions of this investigation can help to straighten out the requirements and standards for the installation deviation control of the large hydro-generator units.
Study of the Jet Output Characteristics under Multi−Source Coupling
Authors: Niu Wenlong , Liao Hualin , Wang Huajian , Wei Jun , Liu Jiansheng , Niu Jilei , Shi Yucai
Published: March 2023

The challenges posed by elevated rock hardness, deficient drillability, excessive friction torque, and significant underpressure in extended−reach horizontal wells are the primary factors that contribute to low ROP (Rate of Penetration) and limited horizontal reach during the drilling operation. Reducing drag and friction is one of the primary methods of addressing the aforementioned challenges. To augment the pulse output characteristics of the oscillating jet and bolster the energy of the hydrodynamic impact load, we developed and designed a multi−source impact oscillation speed−increasing tool coupled with blade rotation disturbance and multi−order oscillation cavity self−excitation. We utilized fluid dynamics software to model and conduct numerical analysis on the multi−source pulsed jet generator. Furthermore, we constructed a prototype and subjected it to testing. This paper examines the impact of dimensionless structural parameters on the pressure output characteristics of the multi−source pulse−jet generator. Specifically, we used three dimensionless quantities (cavity length ratios, cavity diameter ratios, and inner wall collision angle ratios) to study this effect. The findings indicate that the multi−source impact oscillation speed−increasing tool is capable of augmenting the pulse oscillation amplitude, and the frequency of pulse oscillation can be adjusted within the range of 5 Hz to 15 Hz. During the study, we determined that the optimal oscillation output characteristics can be achieved when the cavity diameter ratio is 0.8, the cavity length ratio is 1.0, and the inner wall collision angle ratio is 1.5. These findings present a novel approach for the development of downhole hydraulic impact oscillation speed−increasing tools.
Comparison of the Engine Performance of Soybean Oil Biodiesel Emulsions Prepared by Phase Inversion Temperature and Mechanical Homogenization Methods
Authors: Lin Cherng-Yuan , Lin Keng-Hung
Published: March 2023

The engine performance and emission characteristics of burning emulsions of soybean oil biodiesel in a compression-ignition diesel engine prepared through the phase inversion temperature method were compared with those of neat soybean oil biodiesel and the emulsion prepared by the mechanical homogenization method. The engine torque was set constantly at 98 N·m with varying engine speeds. The experimental results show that the emulsion prepared by the method of phase inversion temperature had higher O2 and NOx emissions, a higher excess air ratio, a higher exhaust gas temperature, and a higher brake fuel conversion efficiency than the emulsion prepared by the mechanical homogenization method, which had lower CO and CO2 emissions, a lower equivalence ratio, and lower brake-specific fuel consumption. While the neat soybean oil biodiesel was found to have the lowest fuel consumption rate, brake-specific fuel consumption, and CO and CO2 emissions, it had the highest exhaust gas temperature and brake fuel conversion efficiency, NOx and O2 emissions, and excess air ratio among those three fuels. Therefore, the phase inversion temperature method is considered promising for preparing fuel emulsions as an alternative to petro-derived diesel for compression-ignition engines.
Ensemble Machine-Learning Models for Accurate Prediction of Solar Irradiation in Bangladesh
Authors: Alam Md Shafiul , Al-Ismail Fahad Saleh , Hossain Md Sarowar , Rahman Syed Masiur
Published: March 2023

Improved irradiance forecasting ensures precise solar power generation forecasts, resulting in smoother operation of the distribution grid. Empirical models are used to estimate irradiation using a wide range of data and specific national or regional parameters. In contrast, algorithms based on Artificial Intelligence (AI) are becoming increasingly popular and effective for estimating solar irradiance. Although there has been significant development in this area elsewhere, employing an AI model to investigate irradiance in Bangladesh is limited. This research forecasts solar radiation in Bangladesh using ensemble machine-learning models. The meteorological data collected from 32 stations contain maximum temperature, minimum temperature, total rain, humidity, sunshine, wind speed, cloud coverage, and irradiance. Ensemble machine-learning algorithms including Adaboost regression (ABR), gradient-boosting regression (GBR), random forest regression (RFR), and bagging regression (BR) are developed to predict solar irradiance. With the default parameters, the GBR provides the best performance as it has the lowest standard deviation of errors. Then, the important hyperparameters of the GRB are tuned with the grid-search algorithms to further improve the prediction accuracy. On the testing dataset, the optimized GBR has the highest coefficient of determination (R2) performance, with a value of 0.9995. The same approach also has the lowest root mean squared error (0.0007), mean absolute percentage error (0.0052), and mean squared logarithmic error (0.0001), implying superior performance. The absolute error of the prediction lies within a narrow range, indicating good performance. Overall, ensemble machine-learning models are an effective method for forecasting irradiance in Bangladesh. They can attain high accuracy and robustness and give significant information for the assessment of solar energy resources.
Waste Heat Recovery from Converter Gas by a Filled Bulb Regenerator: Heat Transfer Characteristics
Authors: Zuo Zongliang , Dong Xinjiang , Luo Siyi , Yu Qingbo
Published: March 2023

The iron and steel industry is a high-energy consumption and high-pollution industry. Energy recovery in its process is of great significance. Converter gas is an important by-product in the process of iron and steel production. It is difficult to take effective measures to recover waste heat from converter gas due to its flammability. In this paper, a new technology is proposed based on waste heat recovery by a filled bulb regenerator. The mathematical model of heat transfer and flow in the compound regenerator for converter gas containing dust is established. The effects of the diameter and concentration of dust to heat transfer and flow are discussed. The results show that the temperature of converter gas declined to 132 °C, and recovery efficiency was above 90% using this technology system. Resistance loss increased by 25% due to the dust; with the increase in the diameter and initial concentration of dust, the heat transfer rate in the regenerator was reinforced. At the entrance of the regenerator, dust’s effects are more obvious, and the efficiency of heat transfer is increased by 4.5–8.5%. The results can provide a theoretical basis for a new converter gas waste heat recovery method.
Consultations in New Prophetic Churches and African Traditional Religions: A Case Study of Divine Healing in Assessing Syncretistic Practices in the South African Context
Authors: Kgatle Mookgo Solomon
Published: March 2023

New prophetic churches have a different approach to classical Pentecostalism when it comes to the practice of divine healing. Unlike classical Pentecostalism, new prophetic churches embrace the practice of consulting prophets in divine healing in the same way as that in which a traditional healer would be consulted in traditional African religions. During the consultation, the prophet charges a fee and prescribes sacred products that are similar to those of traditional African religious practices. This article uses a case study to illustrate the similarities between new prophetic churches and traditional African religions. Although there are similarities between the two movements, there is a need to also demonstrate their differences. The similarities are framed as continuities, and differences as discontinuities. When diagnosing the problem, a traditional healer throws traditional bones, but a prophet relies on the Holy Spirit to utter a prophetic word. When exorcising a demon causing sickness and diseases, a traditional healer uses rituals to invoke the spirits, but new prophetic churches, with all their weaknesses, would still use the name of Jesus to cast out the evil spirits. The findings in this article have some implications within the theoretical framework of syncretism. The similarities demonstrate syncretistic practices, and the discontinuities demonstrate the nonsyncretistic nature of new prophetic churches in South Africa.
Introduction to the Special Issue “Nonviolence and Religion”
Authors: Du Toit Louise , Meir Ephraim , Noort Ed , Palaver Wolfgang
Published: March 2023

Since the terrorist attacks of 9/11 in 2001, many scholarly debates have focused on the relationship between religion and violence [...]
Moral Certainty of the Judge in the Canonical Process to Determine the Nullity of Marriage v. the Principle Testis Unus Testis Nullus
Authors: Adamczewski Karol Krystian
Published: March 2023

The present article discusses the issue of moral certainty in the canonical process for the annulment of marriage and analyzes the problem of applying the procedural principle testis unus testis nullus. The reason for undertaking the subject was the publication in 2015 of two papal documents of the rank of apostolic letters, which introduced significant changes in the area of the process for the annulment of marriage. One of the aspects that underwent legislative modification was the principle testis unus testis nullus. It was decided that in marriage cases the testimony provided by a single witness may have the value of complete proof, provided that certain conditions are met. Therefore, the current considerations are an attempt to find an answer to the question whether the judge who takes a decision in marriage cases on the grounds of a single-witness testimony is able to achieve inner conviction (certitudo moralis) with regard to the factual state of the matter, and pass a verdict in accordance with the truth. In addition, the article outlines the legal construct of moral certainty, characteristic of canon law, and discusses the principle testis unus testis nullus within the framework of the existing canon law, taking into account a broad historical perspective, including both the biblical-canonical tradition as well as Roman law.
Ascending the Milky Way: Seven Sisters Festival and the Religious Practices of Cantonese Women in Singapore
Authors: Wong Lynn Yuqing
Published: March 2023

The Seven Sisters Festival (also known as Qixi Festival) is especially important to Cantonese women, with differences in syncretic religious practices and beliefs between marriage resistance and nonresistance regions. Despite being forerunners in the wave of women’s migration since the 19th century, developments in ritualistic practices and sisterhood structures of these Cantonese women after their migration remain largely unexplored. This article investigates the formation of Milky Way associations, liturgical sororities for organizing festival celebrations and worship of the Seven Sisters, and its influence on the social and religious lives of Cantonese women in Singapore. Through highlighting the coexistence of different belief systems, shifts in interest from China as the center of sociocultural origin to post-war/post-independence Singapore in the periphery, as well as negotiations with space, this article shows that Cantonese women have been active agents in reorganizing themselves, interacting within and outside of their communities, and engaging in heritage meaning-making. By compiling a non-exhaustive list of over 100 Milky Way associations in Singapore in the 1930–1940s, this article spotlights the magnitude and significance of the Seven Sisters Festival, which has disappeared since the 1970s with little material trace.