bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparation of Surface Dispersed WO3/BiVO4 Heterojunction Arrays and Their Photoelectrochemical Performance for Water Splitting
Authors: Fan Xiaoli , Chen Qinying , Zhu Fei , Wang Tao , Gao Bin , Song Li , He Jianping
Published: January 2024

In this work, a surface dispersed heterojunction of BiVO4-nanoparticle@WO3-nanoflake was successfully prepared by hydrothermal combined with solvothermal method. We optimized the morphology of the WO3 nanoflakes and BiVO4 nanoparticles by controlling the synthesis conditions to get the uniform BiVO4 loaded on the surface of WO3 arrays. The phase composition and morphology evolution with different reaction precursors were investigated in detail. When used as photoanodes, the WO3/BiVO4 composite exhibits superior activity with photocurrent at 3.53 mA cm−2 for photoelectrochemical (PEC) water oxidation, which is twice that of pure WO3 photoanode. The superior surface dispersion structure of the BiVO4-nanoparticle@WO3-nanoflake heterojunction ensures a large effective heterojunction area and relieves the interfacial hole accumulation at the same time, which contributes to the improved photocurrents together with the stability of the WO3/BiVO4 photoanodes.
CuAAC-Based Synthesis, Copper-Catalyzed Aldehyde-Forming Hydrolytic Fission and Antiproliferative Evaluation of Novel Ferrocenoylamino-Substituted Triazole-Tethered Quinine–Chalcone Hybrids
Authors: Dembo António , Ferenczi Etelka , Jernei Tamás , Bor Andrea , Schelz Zsuzsanna , Zupkó István , Varga Szilárd , Csámpai Antal
Published: January 2024

A series of novel triazole-tethered ferrocenoylamino-substituted cinchona–chalcone hybrids along with two representative benzoylamino-substituted reference compounds were prepared by three methods of CuAAC chemistry. In line with the limited success or complete failure of attempted conversions with low catalyst loadings, by means of DFT modeling studies, we demonstrated that a substantial part of the Cu(I) ions can be chelated and thus trapped in the aroylamino-substituted cinchona fragment and all of the accessible coordinating sites of the chalcone residues. Accordingly, increased amounts of catalysts were used to achieve acceptable yields; however, the cycloadditions with para-azidochalcones were accompanied by partial or complete aldehyde-forming hydrolytic fission of the enone C=C bond in a substituent-, solvent- and copper load-dependent manner. The experienced hydrolytic stability of the hybrids obtained by cycloadditions with ortho-azidochalcones was interpreted in terms of relative energetics, DFT reactivity indices and MO analysis of simplified models of two isomer copper–enone complexes. The novel hybrids were evaluated on HeLa, MDA-MB-231 and A2780 cell lines and showed substantial activity at low-to-submicromolar concentrations. An organometallic model carrying 3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl residue in the enone part with a para-disubstituted benzene ring in the central skeletal region was identified as the most potent antiproliferative lead, characterized by submicromolar IC50 values measured on the three investigated cells. The biological assays also disclosed that this ferrocenoylamino-containing lead compound displays a ca. two- to five-fold more substantial antiproliferative effect than its benzoylamino-substituted counterpart.
Experimental Investigation of the Viscosity and Stability of Scleroglucan-Based Nanofluids for Enhanced Oil Recovery
Authors: Castro Rubén , Corredor Laura , Llanos Sebastián , Causil María , Arias Adriana , Pérez Eduar , Quintero Henderson , Romero Bohórquez Arnold , Franco Camilo , Cortés Farid
Published: January 2024

Biopolymers emerge as promising candidates for enhanced oil recovery (EOR) applications due to their molecular structures, which exhibit better stability than polyacrylamides under harsh conditions. Nonetheless, biopolymers are susceptible to oxidation and biological degradation. Biopolymers reinforced with nanoparticles could be a potential solution to the issue. The nanofluids’ stability and performance depend on the nanoparticles’ properties and the preparation method. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of the preparation method and the nanoparticle type (SiO2, Al2O3, and TiO2) on the viscosity and stability of the scleroglucan (SG). The thickening effect of the SG solution was improved by adding all NPs due to the formation of three-dimensional structures between the NPs and the SG chains. The stability test showed that the SG + Al2O3 and SG + TiO2 nanofluids are highly unstable, but the SG + SiO2 nanofluids are highly stable (regardless of the preparation method). According to the ANOVA results, the preparation method and standing time influence the nanofluid viscosity with a statistical significance of 95%. On the contrary, the heating temperature and NP type are insignificant. Finally, the nanofluid with the best performance was 1000 ppm of SG + 100 ppm of SiO2_120 NPs prepared by method II.
Intermixing of Unoccupied States of Metal Phthalocyanine Chains Assembled on Au(110)
Authors: Kumar Abhishek , Betti Maria Grazia , Mariani Carlo , Kumar Manvendra , Gargiani Pierluigi , Soncini Cristian , Pedio Maddalena
Published: January 2024

A detailed inverse photoemission study unveils the unoccupied electronic structure induced by the adsorption of CuPc and CoPc phthalocyanines on Au(110) reconstructed channels. The different behavior in the two systems is related to the different intermixing of orbitals with the underlying gold states. Broadening of the density of states at the Fermi level is detected after CoPc adsorption, absent in the case CuPc. A detailed comparison with the element-selective X-ray absorption spectroscopy enlightens and complements the IPES results and confirms a surface-driven intermixing of the CoPc orbitals involved in the interaction, with the out-of-plane Co 3dz2 orbital strongly hybridized with the gold electronic states. Moreover, the contribution of the 3d empty states to the IPES data is reported for FePc, CoPc, and CuPc thin films.
The Optimization of Hole Injection Layer in Organic Light-Emitting Diodes
Authors: Xing Xiaolin , Wu Ziye , Sun Yingying , Liu Yunlong , Dong Xiaochen , Li Shuhong , Wang Wenjun
Published: January 2024

Organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) are widely recognized as the forefront technology for displays and lighting technology. Now, the global OLED market is nearly mature, driven by the rising demand for superior displays in smartphones. In recent years, numerous strategies have been introduced and demonstrated to optimize the hole injection layer to further enhance the efficiency of OLEDs. In this paper, different methods of optimizing the hole injection layer were elucidated, including using a suitable hole injection material to minimize the hole injection barrier and match the energy level with the emission layer, exploring new preparation methods to optimize the structure of hole injection layer, and so on. Meanwhile, this article can help people to understand the current research progress and the challenges still faced in relation to the hole injection layer in OLEDs, providing future research directions to enhance the properties of OLEDs.
Liuwei Dihuang Pills Enhance Osteogenic Differentiation in MC3T3-E1 Cells through the Activation of the Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway
Authors: Zhao Jinlong , Liang Guihong , Yang Junzheng , Huang Hetao , Dou Yaoxing , Gu Zhuoxu , Liu Jun , Zeng Lingfeng , Yang Weiyi
Published: January 2024

Objective: The therapeutic efficacy and molecular mechanisms of traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs), such as Liuwei Dihuang pills (LWDH pills), in treating osteoporosis (OP) remain an area of active research and interest in modern medicine. This study investigated the mechanistic underpinnings of LWDH pills in the treatment of OP based on network pharmacology, bioinformatics, and in vitro experiments. Methods: The active ingredients and targets of LWDH pills were retrieved through the TCMSP database. OP-related targets were identified using the CTD, GeneCards, and DisGeNET databases. The STRING platform was employed to construct a protein–protein interaction (PPI) network, and core targets for LWDH pills in treating OP were identified. The GO functional and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses for potential targets were performed using the R package “clusterProfiler”. A “drug–target” network diagram was created using Cytoscape 3.7.1 software. The viability of MC3T3-E1 cells was evaluated using the CCK-8 method after treatment with various concentrations (1.25%, 2.5%, 5%, and 10%) of LWDH pill-medicated serum for 24, 48, and 72 h. Following a 48 h treatment of MC3T3-E1 cells with LWDH pill-medicated serum, the protein levels of collagen Ⅰ, RUNX2, Wnt3, and β-catenin were quantified using the Western blot analysis, and the activity of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) was measured. Results: A total of 197 putative targets for LWDH pills for OP treatment were pinpointed, from which 20 core targets were singled out, including TP53, JUN, TNF, CTNNB1 (β-catenin), and GSK3B. The putative targets were predominantly involved in signaling pathways such as the Wnt signaling pathway, the MAPK signaling pathway, and the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. The intervention with LWDH pill-medicated serum for 24, 48, and 72 h did not result in any notable alterations in the cell viability of MC3T3-E1 cells relative to the control group (all p > 0.05). Significant upregulation in protein levels of collagen Ⅰ, RUNX2, Wnt3, and β-catenin in MC3T3-E1 cells was observed in response to the treatment with 2.5%, 5%, and 10% of LWDH pill-medicated serum in comparison to that with the 10% rabbit serum group (all p < 0.05). Furthermore, the intervention with LWDH pill-medicated serum resulted in the formation of red calcified nodules in MC3T3-E1 cells, as indicated by ARS staining. Conclusions: LWDH pills may upregulate the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway to elevate the expression of osteogenic differentiation proteins, including collagen Ⅰ and RUNX2, and to increase the ALP activity in MC3T3-E1 cells for the treatment of OP.
From PROTAC to TPD: Advances and Opportunities in Targeted Protein Degradation
Authors: Wang Siqi , He Fuchu , Tian Chunyan , Sun Aihua
Published: January 2024

PROTAC is a rapidly developing engineering technology for targeted protein degradation using the ubiquitin–proteasome system, which has promising applications for inflammatory diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, and malignant tumors. This paper gives a brief overview of the development and design principles of PROTAC, with a special focus on PROTAC-based explorations in recent years aimed at achieving controlled protein degradation and improving the bioavailability of PROTAC, as well as TPD technologies that use other pathways such as autophagy and lysosomes to achieve targeted protein degradation.
An Integrated Computational and Experimental Approach to Formulate Tamanu Oil Bigels as Anti-Scarring Agent
Authors: Krishnappa Megha , Abraham Sindhu , Furtado Sharon Caroline , Krishnamurthy Shwetha , Rifaya Aynul , Asiri Yahya I. , Chidambaram Kumarappan , Pavadai Parasuraman
Published: January 2024

Tamanu oil has traditionally been used to treat various skin problems. The oil has wound-healing and skin-regenerating capabilities and encourages the growth of new skin cells, all of which are helpful for fading scars and hyperpigmentation, as well as promoting an all-around glow. The strong nutty odor and high viscosity are the major disadvantages associated with its application. The aim of this study was to create bigels using tamanu oil for its anti-scarring properties and predict the possible mechanism of action through the help of molecular docking studies. In silico studies were performed to analyze the binding affinity of the protein with the drug, and the anti-scarring activity was established using a full-thickness excision wound model. In silico studies revealed that the components inophyllum C, 4-norlanosta-17(20),24-diene-11,16-diol-21-oic acid, 3-oxo-16,21-lactone, calanolide A, and calophyllolide had docking scores of −11.3 kcal/mol, −11.1 kcal/mol, −9.8 kcal/mol, and −8.6 kcal/mol, respectively, with the cytokine TGF-β1 receptor. Bigels were prepared with tamanu oil ranging from 5 to 20% along with micronized xanthan gum and evaluated for their pH, viscosity, and spreadability. An acute dermal irritation study in rabbits showed no irritation, erythema, eschar, or edema. In vivo excisional wound-healing studies performed on Wistar rats and subsequent histopathological studies showed that bigels had better healing properties when compared to the commercial formulation (MurivennaTM oil). This study substantiates the wound-healing and scar reduction potential of tamanu oil bigels.
Targeted Glioma Therapy—Clinical Trials and Future Directions
Authors: Shikalov Aleksandr , Koman Igor , Kogan Natalya M.
Published: January 2024

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common type of glioma, with a median survival of 14.6 months post-diagnosis. Understanding the molecular profile of such tumors allowed the development of specific targeted therapies toward GBM, with a major role attributed to tyrosine kinase receptor inhibitors and immune checkpoint inhibitors. Targeted therapeutics are drugs that work by specific binding to GBM-specific or overexpressed markers on the tumor cellular surface and therefore contain a recognition moiety linked to a cytotoxic agent, which produces an antiproliferative effect. In this review, we have summarized the available information on the targeted therapeutics used in clinical trials of GBM and summarized current obstacles and advances in targeted therapy concerning specific targets present in GBM tumor cells, outlined efficacy endpoints for major classes of investigational drugs, and discussed promising strategies towards an increase in drug efficacy in GBM.
Geometric-Optical Model of Digital Holographic Particle Recording System and Features of Its Application
Authors: Dyomin Victor , Davydova Alexandra , Polovtsev Igor
Published: January 2024

The paper proposes an equivalent optical scheme of an in-line digital holographic system for particle recording and a mathematical model that establishes a one-to-one correspondence between the dimensional and spatial parameters of a digital holographic image of a particle and the imaged particle itself. The values of the model coefficients used to determine the real size and longitudinal coordinate of a particle according to its holographic image are found by calibration. The model was tested in field and laboratory conditions to calibrate a submersible digital holographic camera designed to study plankton in its habitat. It was shown that four calibration measurements are sufficient enough to determine the model coefficients, and the developed design of the submersible digital holographic camera makes it possible to perform these measurements during the recording of each hologram. In addition, this neither requires data on the refractive index of the medium with particles nor on the parameters of the optical elements of the scheme. The paper presents the results of marine experiments in the Kara Sea and the Laptev Sea, as well as in fresh water in laboratory conditions and in Lake Baikal. The error in measuring the particle size in seawater without the use of the model is 53.8%, while the error in determining their longitudinal coordinates is 79.3%. In fresh water, the same errors were 59% and 54.5%, respectively. The error in determining the position of a particle with the use of the designed mathematical model does not exceed 1.5%, and the error in determining the size is 4.8%. The model is sensitive to changes in the optical properties of the medium, so it is necessary to perform calibration in each water area, and one calibration is quite sufficient within the same water area. At the same time, the developed design of the submersible holographic camera allows, if necessary, calibration at each holographing of the medium volume with particles.
Functional Characterization of CsF3Ha and Its Promoter in Response to Visible Light and Plant Growth Regulators in the Tea Plant
Authors: Bai Yan , Zou Rui , Zhang Hongye , Li Jiaying , Wu Tian
Published: January 2024

Flavanone 3-hydroxylase (F3H) catalyzes trihydroxyflavanone formation into dihydroflavonols in the anthocyanin biosynthesis pathway, serving as precursors for anthocyanin synthesis. To investigate the CsF3Ha promoter’s regulation in the ‘Zijuan’ tea plant, we cloned the CsF3Ha gene from this plant. It was up-regulated under various visible light conditions (blue, red, and ultraviolet (UV)) and using plant growth regulators (PGRs), including abscisic acid (ABA), gibberellic acid (GA3), salicylic acid (SA), ethephon, and methyl jasmonate (MeJA). The 1691 bp promoter sequence was cloned. The full-length promoter P1 (1691 bp) and its two deletion derivatives, P2 (890 bp) and P3 (467 bp), were fused with the β-glucuronidase (GUS) reporter gene, and were introduced into tobacco via Agrobacterium-mediated transformation. GUS staining, activity analysis, and relative expression showed that visible light and PGRs responded to promoter fragments. The anthocyanin content analysis revealed a significant increase due to visible light and PGRs. These findings suggest that diverse treatments indirectly enhance anthocyanin accumulation in ‘Zijuan’ tea plant leaves, establishing a foundation for further research on CsF3Ha promoter activity and its regulatory role in anthocyanin accumulation.
The Impact Ground Phonolite Rock’s Potassium Solubilization in Tropical Soil Depends on the Cultivated Forage Species
Authors: da Rocha Neto Alaor Ribeiro , de Mello Prado Renato , da Cruz Mara Cristina Pessôa
Published: January 2024

Cover crops can be used to accelerate the solubilization process of low-solubility fertilizers; thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the potential of grasses in solubilizing potassium from phonolite rock powder. With a 2 × 5 factorial scheme, two doses of phonolite rock powder, equivalent to 0 and 8 t ha−1, were combined with four grass species (Urochloa ruziziensis, U. decumbens, U. humidicola, and Andropogon gayanus), besides a control treatment without any cover crop. The dry matter production of the aerial parts of the plants was evaluated at days 40 and 70 post-emergence, and then the concentration of potassium in the plants and the soil was evaluated (exchangeable, non-exchangeable, structural, and total potassium contents). In the soil, the phonolitic rock powder increased the exchangeable, non-exchangeable, structural, and total K contents, favoring the absorption of K and the production of the dry mass of the three Urochloa, but U. decumbens stood out because it promoted greater availability of K in the system compared to the cultivation of other plant species. This research proposes the inclusion of U. decumbens in production systems that receive phonolitic rock, constituting a sustainable strategy to improve its agronomic efficiency.
Identification and Validation of the miR156 Family Involved in Drought Responses and Tolerance in Tea Plants (Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Kuntze)
Authors: Wen Shengjing , Zhou Chengzhe , Tian Caiyun , Yang Niannian , Zhang Cheng , Zheng Anru , Chen Yixing , Lai Zhongxiong , Guo Yuqiong
Published: January 2024

The microRNA156 (miR156) family, one of the first miRNA families discovered in plants, plays various important roles in plant growth and resistance to various abiotic stresses. Previously, miR156s were shown to respond to drought stress, but miR156s in tea plants (Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Kuntze) have not been comprehensively identified and analyzed. Herein, we identify 47 mature sequences and 28 precursor sequences in tea plants. Our evolutionary analysis and multiple sequence alignment revealed that csn-miR156s were highly conserved during evolution and that the rates of the csn-miR156 members’ evolution were different. The precursor sequences formed typical and stable stem–loop structures. The prediction of cis-acting elements in the CsMIR156s promoter region showed that the CsMIR156s had diverse cis-acting elements; of these, 12 CsMIR156s were found to be drought-responsive elements. The results of reverse transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) testing showed that csn-miR156 family members respond to drought and demonstrate different expression patterns under the conditions of drought stress. This suggests that csn-miR156 family members may be significantly involved in the response of tea plants to drought stress. Csn-miR156f-2-5p knockdown significantly reduced the Fv/Fm value and chlorophyll content and led to the accumulation of more-reactive oxygen species and proline compared with the control. The results of target gene prediction showed that csn-miR156f-2-5p targeted SQUAMOSA promoter binding protein-like (SPL) genes. Further analyses showed that CsSPL14 was targeted by csn-miR156f-2-5p, as confirmed through RT-qPCR, 5′ RLM-RACE, and antisense oligonucleotide validation. Our results demonstrate that csn-miR156f-2-5p and CsSPL14 are involved in drought response and represent a new strategy for increasing drought tolerance via the breeding of tea plants.
Effects of Differential Shading on Summer Tea Quality and Tea Garden Microenvironment
Authors: Ge Shibei , Wang Yameng , Shen Keyin , Wang Qianying , Ahammed Golam Jalal , Han Wenyan , Jin Zhifeng , Li Xin , Shi Yuanzhi
Published: January 2024

Shading is an effective agronomic technique to protect tea plants from intense sunlight. However, there are currently very few studies on more effective shading methods to improve the quality of summer tea. In this study, ‘Longjing43’ plants were grown under four different shading treatments for 14 days, with no shading as the control. Among the four shading treatments, double-layer-net shadings had the most positive impact on the tea quality, resulting in higher levels of amino acids but lower levels of tea polyphenols. Additionally, double-layer-net shadings provided more suitable microenvironments for tea plants. The tea leaves in T4 (double nets 50 cm above the plant canopy) contained 16.13 mg∙g−1 of umami and sweet amino acids, which was significantly higher than in other treatments. T4 had the lowest air temperature and the most suitable and stable soil water content. Interestingly, the ratio of red light to far-red light in T4 was only 1.65, much lower than other treatments, which warrants further study. In conclusion, the microenvironment induced by shading can greatly affect the tea quality, and double-layer-net shading is better for improving the quality of summer tea.
Carboxymethyl Scleroglucan Synthesized via O-Alkylation Reaction with Different Degrees of Substitution: Rheology and Thermal Stability
Authors: Castro Rubén H. , Burgos Isidro , Corredor Laura M. , Llanos Sebastián , Franco Camilo A. , Cortés Farid B. , Romero Bohórquez Arnold R.
Published: January 2024

This paper presents the methodology for synthesizing and characterizing two carboxymethyl EOR-grade Scleroglucans (CMS-A and CMS-B). An O-Alkylation reaction was used to insert a hydrophilic group (monochloroacetic acid—MCAA) into the biopolymer’s anhydroglucose subunits (AGUs). The effect of the degree of the carboxymethyl substitution on the rheology and thermal stability of the Scleroglucan (SG) was also evaluated. Simultaneous thermal analysis (STA/TGA-DSC), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy, and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (SEM/EDS) were employed to characterize both CMS products. FTIR analysis revealed characteristic peaks corresponding to the carboxymethyl functional groups, confirming the modification. Also, SEM analysis provided insights into the structural changes in the polysaccharide after the O-Alkylation reaction. TGA results showed that the carboxymethylation of SG lowered its dehydroxylation temperature but increased its thermal stability above 300 °C. The CMS products and SG exhibited a pseudoplastic behavior; however, lower shear viscosities and relaxation times were observed for the CMS products due to the breakage of the SG triple helix for the chemical modification. Despite the viscosity results, the modified Scleroglucans are promising candidates for developing new engineering materials for EOR processes.
Experimental Study on Warpage Phenomenon of Wax Parts Manufactured by Fused Filament Fabrication
Authors: Mukhtarkhanov Muslim , Shehab Essam , Ali Md. Hazrat
Published: January 2024

Warpage is one of the prominent issues in Fused Filament Fabrication. The cause of this is the rapid cooling of the polymer during extrusion. The residual thermal stresses accumulated within the print part result in a shape distortion and subsequent detachment of the object from the print bed. In this study, both experimental and numerical approaches were used to identify the stresses due to thermal shrinking that occurs in soft polymers such as wax. A temperature sweep test was performed using a rotational rheometer to measure the magnitude of axial forces that are generated due to the thermal shrinking of a thin layer of 3D printable wax. The thermal stresses responsible for warpage were computed analytically and using the FEA. It was found that due to thermal processes, the stress magnitude can reach a value of 1.17 MPa. This value is enough to cause the plastic deformation in the wax part having a thin elongated shape. In addition, Taguchi’s robust design has identified two major FFF parameters that impact the warpage in amorphous soft polymers. They are the printing speed and the print bed temperature. To achieve a low level of warpage, it is important to make sure that the layer deposition occurs at medium speeds and the print bed temperature is moderately high according to the findings of this study.
Impact of Oil Addition on Physicochemical Properties and In Vitro Digestibility of Extruded Pineapple Stem Starch
Authors: Nisitthichai Juthamath , Wannaphruek Phimraphat , Sriprablom Jiratthitikan , Suphantharika Manop , Smith Siwaporn Meejoo , Amornsakchai Taweechai , Wongsagonsup Rungtiwa
Published: January 2024

The effects of palm oil (PO) and coconut oil (CO) additions on the physicochemical properties and in vitro starch digestibility of extruded pineapple stem starch (PSS) were studied. The native PSS was adjusted to 15% moisture and blended with PO or CO in amounts of 5 and 10% (w/w of starch), while the control sample without added oil was adjusted to 25% moisture before being extruded with a twin-screw extruder at a maximum barrel temperature of 140 °C. Due to the lubricating effect, the added oils reduced the expansion ratio of the extrudates, which led to an increase in cell wall thickness, bulk density, hardness, and water adsorption index, but to a reduction in the water solubility index, especially with 10% oils. PO had a greater impact on the physicochemical changes in the extrudates than CO. Surprisingly, no amylose-lipid complex was observed in the extrudates with added oil, as shown by XRD, DSC, and FTIR results. The phenolic compounds contained in PSS remained in all extrudates, which could affect the formation of the amylose-lipid complex during extrusion. The addition of 5% oil had no effect on the digestibility of the starch compared to the control extrudates, while the 10% oils, both PO and CO, reduced the rapidly digestible starch content but significantly increased the resistant starch content of the extruded PSS.
Glass Fibre-Reinforced Extrusion 3D-Printed Composites: Experimental and Numerical Study of Mechanical Properties
Authors: Kámán András , Balogh László , Tarcsay Bálint Levente , Jakab Miklós , Meszlényi Armand , Turcsán Tamás , Egedy Attila
Published: January 2024

The properties of 3D-printed bodies are an essential part of both the industrial and research sectors, as the manufacturers try to improve them in order to make this now additive manufacturing method more appealing compared to conventional manufacturing methods, like injection moulding. Great achievements were accomplished in both 3D printing materials and machines that made 3D printing a viable way to produce parts in recent years. However, in terms of printing parameters, there is still much room for advancements. This paper discusses four of the 3D printing parameters that affect the properties of the final products made by chopped glass fibre-filled nylon filaments; these parameters are the printing temperature, nozzle diameter, layer height, and infill orientation. Furthermore, a polynomial function was fitted to the measured data points, which made it possible to calculate the tensile strength, flexural strength, and Young’s modulus of the 3D-printed samples based on their printing parameters. A Pearson correlation analysis was also carried out to determine the impact of each parameter on all three mechanical properties studied. Both the infill orientation and printing temperature had a significant effect on both strengths and Young’s modulus, while the effect of nozzle diameters and layer heights were dependent on the infill orientation used. Also, a model with excellent performance was established to predict the three mechanical properties of the samples based on the four major parameters used. As expected from a fibre-reinforced material, the infill orientation had the most significant effect on the tensile strength, flexural strength, and Young’s modulus. The temperature was also quite significant, while the nozzle diameters and layer height effect were situational. The highest values for the tensile strength, flexural strength, and Young’s modulus were 72 MPa, 78.63 MPa, and 4243 MPa, respectively, which are around the same values the manufacturer states.
Correction: Kars, Aydogan, and Ashkan Bahrani. 2022. Knowledge and Causality in Ibn al-ʿArabī’s Book of Giving, and the Buddhist Notion of Dependent Origination. Religions 13: 768
Authors: Kars Aydogan , Bahrani Ashkan
Published: January 2024

At the beginning of our article (Kars and Bahrani 2022), we mentioned that the Book of Giving [Kitāb al-Ifāda] “appears in the List of Writings [Fihris al-Muʾallafāt] compiled by Ibn al-ʿArabī [...]
Islam, Salafism, and Peace: Facing the Challenges of Tradition and Change
Authors: Tais Amine
Published: January 2024

Moving away from both the apologetic and polemical frames that have become ubiquitous in public discourses about Islam and Muslims, I position Salafism within the interpretative battles of the mainstream Sunni tradition. Through that analysis, I also highlight how the salafi orientation presents a difficult challenge for contemporary Muslims who seek to promote peace, pluralism and harmony within their communities and with other groups and communities in a fast-changing world.
The Hymn Gloria and Its Place in the Celebration of the Eucharist
Authors: Dufka Vlastimil
Published: January 2024

Music is an essential part of human life, but it is also integral to the experience of faith. From its beginnings, music has been associated with religious expression and worship. One of the oldest Christian hymns is the hymn “Gloria in excelsis Deo”-“Glory to God in the highest”, which was originally a component of morning and evening prayer. Later, it became part of the Holy Mass and is still sung during the celebration of the Eucharist on Sundays and feast days. The aim of this study is to provide a comprehensive view of this precious hymn in terms of its historical use. The study pays special attention to the sources of the text of this ancient hymn. A theological analysis of the text is also an indispensable prerequisite for a deeper understanding. Finally, the study offers up-to-date guidelines for the hymn’s use today.
The Health/Salvation Nexus: Religion, New Forms of Spirituality, Medicine and the Problem of “Theodicy”
Authors: Camorrino Antonio
Published: January 2024

The health/salvation nexus can be better understood if analyzed through the transformations that have affected the social relationship with the sacred in Western society. These changes have caused relevant implications concerning the sphere of “ultimate meaning”, in the words of Peter Berger. Today, we are witnessing a weakening of legitimized “theodicies” capable of promising—according to Max Weber—salvation and guaranteeing “just equalization”, that is, compensation or metaphysical condemnation for worldly conduct. However, this occurs to different extents depending on whether we are in the field of Western religions or new forms of spirituality. Medicine deserves a separate discussion. The hypothesis is that the health/salvation nexus leans towards salvation in the case of Western religions; towards health in the case of medicine; and, in the case of new forms of spirituality it leans neither exactly towards health nor exactly towards salvation: new forms of spirituality promise more than the achievement of health, but less than the achievement of salvation. Ultimately, the health/salvation nexus is structured differently depending on how much Western religions, new forms of spirituality and medicine are able to respond, more or less effectively, to the questions of “theodicy” and of “ultimate meaning”. I use the term of “theodicy” in the way Max Weber and Peter Berger conceived it: therefore, this concept can also be usefully applied to non-theistic and secular worldviews.
Nonlinear Analysis of the Effects of Socioeconomic, Demographic, and Technological Factors on the Number of Fatal Traffic Accidents
Authors: Sohaee Nassim , Bohluli Shahram
Published: January 2024

This study explores the complex connections among various socioeconomic, demographic, and technological aspects and their impact on fatal traffic accidents. Utilizing the Lasso polynomial regression model, this study explores the impact of demographic variables, including income, education, unemployment rates, and family size. Additionally, socioeconomic factors such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita, inflation rate, minimum wage, and government spending on transportation and infrastructure are examined for their impact on the occurrence of fatal accidents. This study also investigates the influence of technological advances in vehicles on the outcomes of traffic safety. The findings of this research reveal that certain factors, such as average, alcohol consumption, unemployment rate, minimum wage, and vehicle miles traveled (VMT), among others, have a substantial impact on the multifactorial model and play a considerable role in the frequency of fatal accident rates. The research results have significant implications for policymakers, highlighting the need for a comprehensive approach that accounts for the interdependence of economic indicators, behavioral patterns, and traffic safety outcomes. This study underscores the importance of considering a wide range of socioeconomic, demographic, and technological factors to develop effective policies and strategies to reduce fatal traffic accidents.
Adversarial Growth among Refugees: A Scoping Review
Authors: Holthe Mira Elise Glaser , Söderström Kerstin
Published: January 2024

Background: The main aims of this scoping review are to provide a comprehensive overview of the existing knowledge about adversarial growth among refugees, and to gain insight into the complexity of post-trauma development. Methods: We applied a systematic search strategy resulting in the inclusion of 43 quantitative and qualitative empirical studies. Our findings underscore the prevalence of growth as a common phenomenon among refugees, emphasizing the positive associations with problem-focused coping, optimism, positive reappraisal, religiosity, and social support. Additionally, this review sheds light on the qualitative experiences and outcomes of growth, particularly pro-social outcomes, and the cultural and religious aspects of growth processes. Findings concerning the role of time and post-migration factors on growth processes highlight the need for more studies among established refugees. In sum, the findings supplement and lend nuance to pathology-oriented research, while acknowledging the severity of suffering and trauma and their consequences for individuals. We suggest that further research should focus on existential aspects and theories of growth: compassion, altruism, and pro-sociality following trauma, and the importance of religious and cultural elements in growth processes.
On the (Apparently) Paradoxical Role of Noise in the Recognition of Signal Character of Minor Principal Components
Authors: Giuliani Alessandro , Vici Alessandro
Published: January 2024

The usual method of separating signal and noise principal components on the sole basis of their eigenvalues has evident drawbacks when semantically relevant information ‘hides’ in minor components, explaining a very small part of the total variance. This situation is common in biomedical experimentation when PCA is used for hypothesis generation: the multi-scale character of biological regulation typically generates a main mode explaining the major part of variance (size component), squashing potentially interesting (shape) components into the noise floor. These minor components should be erroneously discarded as noisy by the usual selection methods. Here, we propose a computational method, tailored for the chemical concept of ‘titration’, allowing for the unsupervised recognition of the potential signal character of minor components by the analysis of the presence of a negative linear relation between added noise and component invariance.
Unlocking the Sustainable Workplace Equality Policy (SWEP): Evidence from an Emerging Country
Authors: Hossain Mohammed , Tahat Yasean A. , AbuGhazaleh Naser
Published: January 2024

Businesses are actively integrating sustainability principles into their operations by pursuing goals that go beyond reputation management, which all help companies capture value through growth and return on investment. This study aimed to investigate the current status of the Sustainable Workplace Equality Policy (SWEP) in an emerging country—Kuwait—and how it impacts firms’ financial and market performance. This study included companies listed in the Kuwait Boursa (Boursa Kuwait is the operator of the Kuwait Stock Exchange) in the period between 2016 and 2021. A disclosure index was prepared for SWEP based on guidelines provided by a combination of various sources and standards such as the Global Reporting Initiatives (GRI) Standard, S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment, Dow Jones Sustainability Index, United Nations Global Compact, and KPMG Sustainability Reporting Standards. Time series regression analysis was used to examine the hypotheses of this study which were developed using Rawls’ Theory of Justice (1971). The results revealed a strong positive relationship between SWEP disclosure and firm measures of financial performance. The results also indicate that SWEP is value-relevant and affects firms’ market value, suggesting that investors consider firms’ disclosure of SWEP when making investment decisions in Kuwait. The results of the current study are of interest to several stakeholders, especially investors and policymakers. Specifically, this study is relevant to the Kuwaiti Government, which has defined a clear path for sustainable growth with the Vision 2035/New Kuwait initiative that is aimed at transforming the country into a financial and commercial hub for the region by 2035.
Ecological Efficiency Measurement and Technical Heterogeneity Analysis in China: A Two-Stage Three-Level Meta-Frontier Network Model Based on Segmented Projection
Authors: Lin Ruiyue , Wang Xinyuan , Jiang Yu
Published: January 2024

Due to persistent technological impacts on ecological efficiency (eco-efficiency) and variations in economic power and resource endowments among regions, considering regional and temporal heterogeneity becomes imperative. Ecosystems, often divided into economic production and environmental governance stages, necessitate a holistic assessment incorporating regional, temporal heterogeneity and stage distinctions. To address potential issues of a technology gap ratio (TGR) exceeding 1 within a two-stage network structure with dual heterogeneity, we introduce a segmented projection three-layer meta-frontier analysis method. In empirical study, we systematically examined eco-efficiency, emissions inefficiency and technology gaps across management, regional and temporal dimensions in 30 Chinese provinces from 2016 to 2020. Findings reveal disparities in management eco-efficiency, with the central provinces outperforming the east. Regional differences indicate advanced technology in the east, contributing to superior eco-efficiency. Temporal analysis highlights the positive role of scientific and technological development. Emissions inefficiency improvements are noted, necessitating attention toward management and regional technology levels. Eastern provinces exhibit superior emissions efficiency, emphasizing the role of regional and technological development. Recommendations include prioritizing environmental governance, strengthening regional collaborations and implementing policies to bridge technology gaps.
Systemic Modeling and Prediction of Port Container Throughput Using Hybrid Link Analysis in Complex Networks
Authors: Liang Xiaozhen , Wang Yingying , Yang Mingge
Published: January 2024

This paper introduces a hybrid framework for port container throughput forecasting, which is essential in global trade and transportation systems. It uses a multidisciplinary method that combines artificial intelligence, link prediction, and complex networks. To better grasp the interconnection and dynamics of port operations, time series data are first transformed using complex network theory into a network structure. The framework applies 13 similarity metrics, encompassing various aspects of network structural similarity, to form a feature set representing the complex port operation network. The most effective features are selected using the maximum relevance minimum redundancy (mRMR) method, adhering to systems theory’s efficiency principles. These features are processed through SVM, DNN, and LSTM models for link prediction, which is crucial for forecasting in port logistics. Finally, the methodology concludes with regression analysis to obtain container throughput forecasts, which is a key metric in port systems management. Case studies of Shanghai Port and Shenzhen Port validate the framework’s effectiveness, demonstrating a significant improvement in forecasting accuracy over the baseline models. This study contributes to systems analysis by showcasing a hybrid, AI-enhanced approach for managing and forecasting critical aspects of maritime trade systems.
Correction: He et al. Impacts of Cigarette Smoke (CS) on Muscle Derangement in Rodents—A Systematic Review. Toxics 2022, 10, 262
Authors: He Aaron W. J. , Ngai Shirley P. C. , Cheung Kwok Kuen , Lau Benson W. M. , Sánchez-Vidaña Dalinda-Isabel , Pang Marco Y. C.
Published: January 2024

In the original publication [...]
Study of Transverse-Spherocity Biased pp Collisions at the LHC Energies Using the PYTHIA 8 Event Generator
Authors: Ortiz Antonio , Valencia Palomo Lizardo , Minjares Neriz Victor Manuel
Published: January 2024

The ALICE collaboration recently reported the mean transverse momentum as a function of charged-particle multiplicity for different pp-collision classes defined based on the “jettiness” of the event. The event “jettiness” is quantified using transverse spherocity that is measured at midpseudorapidity (|η|<0.8) considering charged particles with transverse momentum within 0.15<pT<10 GeV/c. Comparisons to PYTHIA 8 (tune Monash) predictions show a notable disagreement between the event generator and data for jetty events that increases as a function of charged-particle multiplicity. This paper reports on the origin of such a disagreement. Since at intermediate and high pT (2<pT<10 GeV/c), the spectral shape is expected to be modified by color reconnection or jets, their effects on the average pT are studied. The results indicate that the origin of the discrepancy is the overpredicted multijet yield by PYTHIA 8, which increases with the charged-particle multiplicity. This finding is important to understand the way transverse spherocity and multiplicity bias the pp collisions and how well models like PYTHIA 8 reproduce those biases. The studies are pertinent since transverse spherocity is currently used as an event classifier by experiments at the LHC.
Using a Space Syntax Approach to Enhance Pedestrians’ Accessibility and Safety in the Historic City of George Town, Penang
Authors: Fan Mo , Hedayati Marzbali Massoomeh , Abdullah Aldrin , Maghsoodi Tilaki Mohammad Javad
Published: January 2024

Contemporary urban development places a critical emphasis on pedestrian environments, especially in historic cities like George Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Malaysia. Although survey questionnaires effectively captured public perceptions of issues such as poor road connectivity, weak accessibility, crime and safety concerns in George Town, they fell short in providing a comprehensive understanding of the root causes. This study leverages space syntax theory to model and analyze George Town’s unique pedestrian landscape, aiming to identify strategies for improving pedestrian networks in historical urban landscapes. Space syntax theory, known for revealing structural issues within urban contexts, is applied after a thorough examination of George Town’s urban layout, climate, architectural features, and development policies. George Town employs an informal grid layout widely utilized in British colonial port cities to enhance overall efficiency. The predominant architectural form is the shophouse, which is characterized by a ground level designed for pedestrian movement known as the “five-foot way” and adapted to Malaysia’s climate. Various axis drawing methods for the unique five-foot way under different circumstances are considered. The George Town special area plan (SAP) emphasizing heritage preservation guides development policies, thus requiring an inclusive approach to pedestrian environments. This enhances the practical significance of the current study, with the eastern and northern coastal areas serving as crucial focal points for investigation. This approach results in a comprehensive spatial model that captures the essence of George Town’s pedestrian landscape. Evaluation using space syntax indicators such as connectivity, integration, intelligibility, and choice reveals issues like poor overall network connectivity, inadequate access to key attractions, suboptimal integration, concentrated pedestrian flows, and significant safety concerns, which are exacerbated by limited infrastructure on certain two-way roads and a lack of zebra crossings. The practical implications of this study include recommendations for enhancing pedestrian spaces along identified roads and strategically installing zebra-crossings. This research is significant for its focus on a historical city in a Southeast Asian developing country, deeply integrating local environmental characteristics and providing insights into urban planning and optimization, thereby serving as a reference for similar cities.