bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RESEARCH ON FRACTAL HEAT FLOW CHARACTERIZATION OF FINGER SEAL CONSIDERING THE HEAT TRANSFER EFFECT OF CONTACT GAPS ON ROUGH SURFACES
Authors: LEI JUNJIE , LIU MEIHONG
Published: February 2024

Finger seal is a new flexible dynamic sealing technology, and its heat transfer characteristics and seepage characteristics are one of the main research hotspots. In this paper, based on the fractal theory, a fractal model of the total thermal conductance of the finger seal considering the heat transfer effect of the contact gap of the rough surface is established, a fractal model of the effective gas permeability of the adjacent finger seals annulus considering the gas slip effect and the temperature change is established, and a finite element calculation method of the two-way thermo-mechanical coupling for the finger seal is proposed. The results show that the solid-phase thermal conductance decreases with the increase of the scale coefficient. When the axial pressure difference is greater than 0.4[Formula: see text]MPa, the rotor speed is greater than 11,000[Formula: see text]r/min, the radial displacement excitation is [0.03[Formula: see text]mm, 0.09[Formula: see text]mm], and the temperature is less than 600[Formula: see text]K, the gas-phase thermal conductance between the finger seal and the rotor shows an increasing trend. The gas-phase thermal conductance of the finger seal and the rotor is always the main position under different working conditions. Under different fractal dimensions, the solid-phase thermal conductance gradually occupies the dominant position. Temperature has a certain effect on the effective gas permeability, and fractal dimension, scale coefficient, and axial pressure difference have less effect on the effective gas permeability. At an axial pressure difference of 0.08[Formula: see text]MPa, the numerical calculation results of the two-way thermo-mechanical coupling calculation method for finger seal are closer to the experimental results, with a maximum error rate of 1.96%. The above results further improve the theoretical research system of the heat transfer characteristics of the finger seal.
A structure result on modules over polynomial rings
Authors: Mao Lixin
Published: February 2024

Let [Formula: see text] be a ring. We give the equivalent categories of the module categories over the polynomial ring [Formula: see text] and the quotient ring [Formula: see text]. As applications, we describe explicitly some important classes of modules over [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] such as finitely generated modules, projective modules and injective modules.
Firm-Level Political Risk and the Cash Flow Sensitivity of Cash
Authors: James Hui Liang , Wang Hongxia , Borah Nilakshi
Published: February 2024

We examine the impact of firm-level political risk on the cash flow sensitivity of cash. Using a large sample of U.S. firms from 2003 to 2018, we find that the cash flow sensitivity of cash decreases in political uncertainty and the impact of political risk is asymmetric to cash flow types (positive versus negative). Intensified political uncertainty induces positive/negative cash flow firms to reduce savings out of cash flows to finance investment opportunities/terminate unprofitable projects to retrieve cash. The results are robust to various model specifications, alternative variable definitions, and the control for non-political risks. In addition, we show that a firm’s financial status moderates the relation between the two, with financially constrained positive/negative cash flow firms saving more out of cash flows/decreasing existing savings as firm-level political risk increases.
The Co-Movement between Emerging Stock Markets Using DCC-GARCH Model: Evidence from GCC and Amman Stock Exchange
Authors: Matar Ali
Published: February 2024

This study examines the existence of interrelationships among GCC and Jordanian stock markets. The study applied weekly data for stock price indices for the Amman Exchange (ASE) and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, namely, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and the United Arab Emirates. In this analysis, weekly market returns were employed to avoid the overlapping of recognized holidays and trading hours in the GCC and the ASE. During the global financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic crisis, the sample period spanned from January 7, 2009 to December 30, 2020 for overall (626) weekly observations The main contribution of this study is to shed light on the dynamics of cross-market associations, particularly in the context of emerging economies can be concluded as follows: First, this study is a forefront study that tested the linkages between GCC and Jordanian Markets. Second, the period of this study covered various crises such as the global financial crisis, and COVID-19. Third, the empirical study of multivariate integration, which considers both pairwise interactions and the overall integration of different stock markets by utilizing cutting-edge econometric methods like VECM and DCC-GARCH. As a result, an examination of ASE’s weekly stock price index was conducted. The findings show that there is causality and correlation among stock market indices. Three unidirectional causality relationships running from KUW, OMAI, and UAEI to ASEI. Moreover, the results revealed two bidirectional causality relationships, one between ASEI and BAHI and the other between ASEI and UAEI. The conditional correlations appear to be generally negative, implying that higher ASE volatility causes worse GCC stock returns. Saudi Arabia has the highest conditional connections, followed by Bahrain, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, while Kuwait and Oman’s stock markets are the least connected with the ASE among their peers. Since financial indices are essential for investors, portfolio managers, risk management and fiscal and monetary policy, the findings of this study may be interest of many parties of them, especially for investors, policymakers and governments.
Precision Advancements in Aerial Gliding Vehicles: Modeling to FCS Validation
Authors: Mohamed Mohamed Ibrahim , Safwat Ehab , Abozied Mohammed A. H. , Kamel Ahmed M. , Elhalwagy Yehia Z.
Published: February 2024

The growing utilization of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in military operations has necessitated the development of a suitable weaponry for these kind of platforms. One of the trending categories of such armaments is the aerial gliding vehicle (AGV). AGVs have no propulsion system, consequently, a critical need for a robust flight control system (FCS) tailored to this kind of aerial systems is raised. This research focuses on designing a nonlinear model based controller, starting with the construction of a precise model through practical experiments and the establishment of a dedicated testing and flight simulation environment. Recognizing the limitations of traditional nonlinear dynamic inversion (NDI) due to its dependence on the vehicle model, the modified incremental nonlinear dynamic inversion (MI-NDI) is developed to operate in the presence of wind, model mismatches, and external disturbances. In this research, an extensive testing is conducted in a hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulation environment which validates the MI-NDI controller’s superior performance, even in challenging conditions. The research outcomes mark a significant advancement in enhancing autopilot precision for advanced aerial weaponry and unmanned vehicles.
On approach for prognosis of dissolution of a medicinal product in an organism
Authors: Pankratov E. L.
Published: February 2024

In this article, we introduce a model of dissolution of a medicinal product in an organism with account of changing of conditions. The model based on estimation of spatiotemporal distribution of concentration of the above product during dissolution. We introduce an analytical approach for analysis of the considered dissolution. We consider a possibility to accelerate and decelerate of the above dissolution.
Limitations of Liquid Electrolyte RDE Experiments for the Determination of OER Catalyst Activity: The Effect of the Catalyst Layer Thickness
Authors: Trogisch Niklas , Hartig-Weiss Alexandra , El-Sayed Hany A.
Published: February 2024

Developing novel oxygen evolution reaction (OER) noble metal catalysts with a low metal packing density is key for the wider large-scale implementation of polymer electrolyte membrane water electrolysis (PEMWE). OER activities of these new catalysts are commonly measured in liquid electrolytes using half-cell configurations, such as rotating-ring-disk electrodes (RDE). Recent studies in liquid electrolyte cells showed that the accumulation of microscopic oxygen bubbles within the OER catalyst layer causes shielding of active catalyst sites. In this study, three different OER catalysts were screened for their activity at different loadings in a liquid electrolyte RDE setup. Potential sweeps using bare Ir black, a commercially available IrO2/TiO2 and a homemade Ir/ATO (antimony doped tin oxide) catalyst with different loadings were performed. It was demonstrated that the mass activity of the Ir/ATO catalyst decreases by more than 50% with a catalyst loading increase, which is attributed to the accumulation of microscopic oxygen bubbles within the catalyst layer and was correlated to the coating thickness of the catalyst layer. We suggest screening the OER catalyst activity of low packing catalyst materials in a loading analysis by testing minimum three different loadings within the kinetic Tafel slope region to avoid underestimation of the catalyst activity.
Hydrogen Storage Capacity of Lead‐Free Perovskite NaMTH3 (MT=Sc, Ti, V): A DFT Study
Authors: ur Rehman Zia , Rehman Muhammad Awais , Alomar Suliman Yousef , Rehman Bushra , Awais Muhammad , Amjad Mahnoor , Sikiru Surajudeen , Ali Esraa Mousa , Hamad Abu
Published: February 2024

Hydrogen is a promising clean energy carrier, but its storage is challenging. In this study, we investigate the potential of NaMTH3 (MT=Sc, Ti, V) hydride perovskite as solid‐state hydrogen storage material. Using density functional theory (DFT), we comprehensively analyze their structural, hydrogen storage, phonon, electronic, elastic, and thermodynamic properties. Mechanical stability is assessed through calculation of lattice parameters, bulk and shear moduli, Poisson’s ratio, and Young’s modulus based on elastic constants. All three hydrides were found to be stable mechanically. Furthermore, the anisotropy factor was also investigated. Results show that the investigated hydrides are brittle and metallic. Their metallic character is due to the significant interplay between phonons and electrons. We also investigated their enthalpy, entropy, free energy, Debye temperatures, and specific heat capacities to investigate thermal stability.
Exploring the Potential of Green Microalgae‐Based Phycoremediation Treated Wastewater for Sustainable Concrete Production
Authors: Lam T. Q. K. , Sreekeshava K. S. , Bhargavi C. , Ganesh C. R. , Ambale N. S. , Do T. M. D.
Published: February 2024

Wastewater pollution from domestic, industrial, and agricultural sources threatens the environment and human health. Traditional wastewater treatment methods are energy intensive, generate significant sludge, and may not remove all contaminants. This study explores the use of microalgae, Chlorella sorokinianana, to treat wastewater and evaluates its impact on concrete properties. The research aims to optimize microalgae growth conditions, set up nutrient‐rich growth chambers, develop biomass separation methods, and assess the effects of microalgae‐treated wastewater on concrete. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to analyze concrete structures produced with microalgae‐treated wastewater, freshwater, and sewage treatment plant (STP) water. Concrete from microalgae‐treated wastewater exhibited euhedral crystals with pronounced gaps, while freshwater concrete had denser subhedral to anhedral crystals. STP water concrete consistently had lower strength values, possibly due to impurities affecting cement hydration. Microalgae‐treated water concrete showed intermediate strength levels, suggesting organic or biological factors may influence hydration, but it still gained strength with time. This study underscores the potential of microalgae‐treated wastewater for sustainable concrete production, highlighting the importance of further research to optimize conditions and promote environmentally friendly construction practices.
A Wooden Pin Reinforcement of Ancient Chinese Wooden Temple: A Case of Daxiong Hall
Authors: Zhang Hua , Gao Wuping , Wang Yanling
Published: February 2024

Post and lintel frame is a prominent architectural structure in Chinese temple architecture, characterized by its wooden construction. Mortise–tenon joints (MTJs) serve as the primary connection method for these wooden structures, employing straight mortise nodes (SMNs) and through‐mortise joints (TMNs). This study presents a method that utilizes wooden pins to reinforce MTJs, enhancing the seismic performance of timber frame structures. Finite element (FE) simulation verifies the effectiveness of wooden pins in reinforcing both SMNs and TMNs, leading to improved load‐bearing capacity and ductility of the MTJs. Additionally, the study confirms that reinforced nodes help to restrict the displacement changes within the wooden frame. The paper also investigates the optimal distribution of MTJs reinforced by the wooden pins throughout the structure, with the aim of enhancing the wood frame’s seismic performance. The results show the bearing capacity of MJT reinforced with wooden pins is approximately 11.3% higher compared to that of MTJ without reinforcement. The reinforcement of wood pins effectively controls the horizontal displacement of the overall structure of the wooden frame, which is reduced by about 50%–62% compared with the unreinforced wooden frame. The locating the wooden pin‐reinforced MTJs in the outer columns and middle layer columns reduces the structural displacement, which is 31.53% in X direction, 5% in Y direction, and 25.86% in Z direction.
Butterfly Abundance and Diversity in Different Habitat Types in the Usangu Area, Ruaha National Park
Authors: Munisi Evaline J. , Masenga Emmanuel H. , Nkwabi Ally K. , Kiwango Halima R. , Mjingo Eblate E.
Published: February 2024

Insects are key fauna species that respond quickly to disturbances and environmental changes. They act as good indicators of habitat, community, or ecosystem quality. Among the great diversity of insects, butterflies stand as ideal bio-indicators for ecosystem function and are sensitive to changes in habitat composition and structure. This study was carried out to examine the diversity and abundance of butterflies across the restored habitats in Usangu area part of Ruaha National Park (RUNAPA) from May 2022 to June 2022 using the walking transect method supplemented by sweep nets and butterfly baited traps. A total of six transects of 1 km in length were laid in the four main habitat types selected in Usangu area including grassland, Miombo woodland, Vachellia/Commiphora woodland, and riverine forest. Searches were conducted in the morning and evening. The Miombo woodland and riverine forest habitats exhibited relatively higher species diversity, richness, evenness, abundance, and a higher number of habitat-restricted species, while Vachellia/Commiphora woodland and grassland habitats recorded the lowest diversity and abundance as well as the lowest number of habitat-restricted species. Family Nymphalidae was the most dominant followed by Pieridae while Papilionidae and Hesperiidae were scarce in the study area. This study clearly shows the importance of Miombo woodland and riverine forest habitats in sustaining rich butterfly diversity and abundance in Usangu area. The two habitats must be effectively managed and conserved for sustaining ecological health and integrity of Usangu area. The Usangu area’s Miombo woodland and riverine forest habitats have immense potential for butterfly tourism and they can offer an excellent opportunity to promote conservation efforts and raise public awareness. However, it is crucial to monitor these habitats closely as any environmental changes that may occur could harm the butterfly diversity and abundance in the area. Preserving this wilderness to maintain a thriving butterfly population is of utmost importance.
dCROX and ROX Indices Predict Clinical Outcomes in Patients with COVID-19 Pneumonia Treated with High-Flow Nasal Cannula Oxygen Therapy
Authors: Ruchiwit Pitchayapa , Pongtongkam Kanpisut , Saiphoklang Narongkorn
Published: February 2024

Background. High-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) therapy is a common respiratory support in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia. Predictive tools for the evaluation of successful weaning from HFNC therapy for COVID-19 pneumonia have been limited. This study aimed to develop a new predictor for weaning success from HFNC treatment in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia. Methods. We conducted a retrospective cohort study at Thammasat University Hospital, Thailand. Patients with COVID-19 pneumonia requiring HFNC therapy from April 2020 to September 2021 were included. The ROX index was defined as the ratio of oxygen saturation (SpO2)/fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) to respiratory rate. The CROX index was defined as the ratio of C-reactive protein (CRP) to the ROX index. dCROX was defined as the difference in CROX index between 24 hours and 72 hours. Weaning success was defined as the ability to sustain spontaneous breathing after separation from HFNC without any invasive or noninvasive ventilatory support for ≥48 hours or death. Results. A total of 106 patients (49.1% male) were included. The mean age was 62.1 ± 16.2 years. Baseline SpO2/FiO2 was 276.1 ± 124.8. The rate of HFNC weaning success within 14 days was 61.3%. The best cutoff value of the dCROX index to predict HFNC weaning success was 3.15 with 66.2% sensitivity, 70.7% specificity, and an area under the ROC curve (AUC) of 0.71 (95% CI: 0.59–0.81, p<0.001). The best cutoff value of the ROX index was 9.13, with 75.4% sensitivity, 78.0% specificity, and an AUC of 0.79 (95% CI: 0.69–0.88, p<0.001). Conclusions. ROX index has the highest accuracy for predicting successful weaning from HFNC in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia. dCROX index is the alternative tool for this setting. However, a larger prospective cohort study is needed to verify these indices for determining separation from HFNC therapy. This trial is registered with TCTR20221107004.
Resource Scheduling in URLLC and eMBB Coexistence Based on Dynamic Selection Numerology
Authors: Wang Lei , Tao Sijie , Zhao Lindong , Zhou Dengyou , Liu Zhe , Sun Yanbing
Published: February 2024

This paper focuses on the resource allocation problem of multiplexing two different service scenarios, enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB) and ultrareliable low latency (URLLC) in 5G New Radio, based on dynamic numerology structure, mini-time slot scheduling, and puncturing to achieve optimal resource allocation. To obtain the optimal channel resource allocation under URLLC user constraints, this paper establishes a relevant channel model divided into two convex optimization problems: (a) eMBB resource allocation and (b) URLLC scheduling. We also determine the numerology values at the beginning of each time slot with the help of deep reinforcement learning to achieve flexible resource scheduling. The proposed algorithm is verified in simulation software, and the simulation results show that the dynamic selection of numerologies proposed in this paper can better improve the data transmission rate of eMBB users and reduce the latency of URLLC services compared with the fixed numerology scheme for the same URLLC packet arrival, while the reasonable resource allocation ensures the reliability of URLLC and eMBB communication.
Supplementary Table 2 from INHBA is Enriched in HPV-negative Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Promotes Cancer Progression
Authors: Abou Kors Tsima , Hofmann Linda , Betzler Annika , Payer Kathrina , Bens Martin , Truong Jens , von Witzleben Adrian , Thomas Jaya , Kraus Johann M. , Kalaajieh Randa , Huber Diana , Ezić Jasmin , Benckendorff Julian , Greve Jens , Schuler Patrick J. , Ottensmeier Christian H. , Kestler Hans A. , Hoffmann Thomas K. , Theodoraki Marie-Nicole , Brunner Cornelia , Laban Simon
Published: February 2024

Differential expression analysis output
Comprehensive Sex-Stratified Genetic Analysis of 28 Blood Biomarkers and Depression Reveals a Significant Association between Depression and Low Levels of Total Protein in Females
Authors: Kiewa Jacqueline , Meltzer-Brody Samantha , Milgrom Jeannette , Guintivano Jerry , Hickie Ian B. , Whiteman David C. , Olsen Catherine M. , Medland Sarah E. , Martin Nicholas G. , Wray Naomi R. , Byrne Enda M.
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Major depression (MD) is more common amongst women than men, and MD episodes have been associated with fluctuations in reproductive hormones amongst women. To investigate biological underpinnings of heterogeneity in MD, the associations between depression, stratified by sex and including perinatal depression (PND), and blood biomarkers, using UK Biobank (UKB) data, were evaluated, and extended to include the association of depression with biomarker polygenic scores (PGS), generated as proxy for each biomarker. Method: Using female (N = 39,761) and male (N = 38,821) UKB participants, lifetime MD and PND were tested for association with 28 blood biomarkers. A GWAS was conducted for each biomarker and genetic correlations with depression subgroups were estimated. Using independent data from the Australian Genetics of Depression Study, PGS were constructed for each biomarker, and tested for association with depression status (n [female cases/controls] = 9,006/6,442; n [male cases/controls] = 3,106/6,222). Regions of significant local genetic correlation between depression subgroups and biomarkers highlighted by the PGS analysis were identified. Results: Depression in females was significantly associated with levels of twelve biomarkers, including total protein (OR = 0.90, CI = [0.86, 0.94], p = 3.9 × 10−6) and vitamin D (OR = 0.94, CI = [0.90, 0.97], p = 2.6 × 10−4), and PND with five biomarker levels, also including total protein (OR = 0.88, CI = [0.81, 0.96], p = 4.7 × 10−3). Depression in males was significantly associated with levels of eleven biomarkers. In the independent Australian Genetics of Depression Study, PGS analysis found significant associations for female depression and PND with total protein (female depression: OR = 0.93, CI = [0.88, 0.98], p = 3.6 × 10−3; PND: OR = 0.91, CI = [0.86, 0.96], p = 1.1 × 10−3), as well as with vitamin D (female depression: OR = 0.93, CI = [0.89, 0.97], p = 2.0 × 10−3; PND: OR = 0.92, CI = [0.87, 0.97], p = 1.4 × 10−3). The male depression sample did not report any significant results, and the point estimate of total protein (OR = 0.98, CI = [0.92–1.04], p = 4.7 × 10−1) did not indicate any association. Local genetic correlation analysis highlighted significant genetic correlation between PND and total protein, located in 5q13.3 (rG = 0.68, CI = [0.33, 1.0], p = 3.6 × 10−4). Discussion and Conclusion: Multiple lines of evidence from genetic analysis highlight an association between total serum protein levels and depression in females. Further research involving prospective measurement of total protein and depressive symptoms is warranted.
Imagenetics for Precision Medicine in Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Antonopoulos Alexios S. , Xintarakou Anastasia , Protonotarios Alexandros , Lazaros George , Miliou Antigoni , Tsioufis Konstantinos , Vlachopoulos Charalambos
Published: February 2024

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a common heart muscle disorder of nonischemic etiology associated with heart failure development and the risk of malignant ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death. A tailored approach to risk stratification and prevention of sudden cardiac death is required in genetic DCM given its variable presentation and phenotypic severity. Currently, advances in cardiogenetics have shed light on disease mechanisms, the complex genetic architecture of DCM, polygenic contributors to disease susceptibility and the role of environmental triggers. Parallel advances in imaging have also enhanced disease recognition and the identification of the wide spectrum of phenotypes falling under the DCM umbrella. Genotype-phenotype associations have been also established for specific subtypes of DCM, such as
DSP
(desmoplakin) or
FLNC
(filamin-C) cardiomyopathy but overall, they remain elusive and not readily identifiable. Also, despite the accumulated knowledge on disease mechanisms, certain aspects remain still unclear, such as which patients with DCM are at risk for disease progression or remission after treatment. Imagenetics, that is, the combination of imaging and genetics, is expected to further advance research in the field and contribute to precision medicine in DCM management and treatment. In the present article, we review the existing literature in the field, summarize the established knowledge and emerging data on the value of genetics and imaging in establishing genotype-phenotype associations in DCM and in clinical decision making for DCM patients.
American Lamiinae (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae): new species of Acanthocinini and Hemilophini and a new synonymy in Cirrhicera Thomson
Authors: HEFFERN DANIEL , SANTOS-SILVA ANTONIO
Published: February 2024

Four new species are described: Lepturges (Lepturges) consimilis sp. nov. (Acanthocinini), from Costa Rica and Panama; Oedopeza raberi sp. nov. and Oedopeza hovorei sp. nov. (Acanthocinini), from Panama; and Cirrhicera vandenberghei sp. nov. (Hemilophini), from Guatemala. Cirrhicera panamensis Bates, 1885 is synonymized with C. sallei Thomson, 1857.
Two new genera and species of the valvatiform hydrobiid snails (Caenogastropoda: Truncatelloidea: Hydrobiidae) from Morocco
Authors: GHAMIZI MOHAMED , FALNIOWSKI ANDRZEJ , BOUDELLAH ABDERRAZZAQ , HOFMAN SEBASTIAN , RHARRAS ASSIA EL , ASSAD NABILA , MOUTAOUAKIL SOUMIA , JASZCZYŃSKA ALEKSANDRA
Published: February 2024

Stygobiont and crenobiont minute gastropods representing the family Hydrobiidae (Caenogastropoda: Truncatelloidea), characterized by the valvatoid low-spired shell, were collected from one spring and four wells in Bouregreg region, NW Morocco. The shells were photographed and measured; shell biometry is illustrated with principal component analysis. Penes were illustrated and described. Mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 (COI) and 16S rRNA, as well as nuclear 18S rRNA sequences were used to infer the phylogeny. The snails represented two genera, both new to science. Their closest relatives were taxa from the Iberian Peninsula, the rough molecular estimate of the time of divergence between these Moroccan and Iberian genera coincided with the Pliocene Flooding, which restored the Strait of Gibraltar to connect the Mediterranean Basin with Atlantic Ocean.
Taxonomic account and phylogenetic relationships of the species of the Neotropical social wasp genus Chartergus Lepeletier, 1836 (Vespidae: Polistinae: Epiponini)
Authors: SOMAVILLA ALEXANDRE , ARAGÃO MARCOS , BARROSO PAULO CÉZAR SALGADO , CARPENTER JAMES M. , MENEZES RODOLPHO SANTOS TELLES
Published: February 2024

The Neotropical social wasp genus Chartergus is reviewed and comparative diagnoses, images of type material, and an updated identification key for species are presented. To investigate the phylogenetic relationships within the genus, we used a combined dataset of morphological characters, nest architecture traits, and molecular data. The results revealed the following relationships among the Chartergus species: (C. globiventris + (C. artifex + C. metanotalis)).
Analysis of Rewetting Characteristics and Mechanical Properties in Leaf Blades and Main Veins of Cured Tobacco Leaves
Authors: Chen Jiading , Wang Aixia , Peng Kui , Wang Yafei , He Rong , Wang Jianlin , Song Zhaopeng , Yin Guangting , Xiao Qingli
Published: February 2024

The moisture content and mechanical properties are crucial factors influencing the processing quality of cured tobacco leaves. Understanding the rewetting characteristics and mechanical properties of leaf blades and main veins is essential to for optimizing tobacco processing. This
study measured the rewetting behavior and mechanical properties of leaf blades and main veins under varying temperature (20–40 °C) and relative humidity (RH, 50%–90%) conditions. Rewetting curves were obtained and dynamic models were constructed. Low-field nuclear magnetic
resonance (LF-NMR) analysis was utilized to obtain information of relaxation time (T2), and correlation models between moisture state and mechanical properties were established. The results indicated that the rewetting rate of leaf blades and main veins decreased gradually
with increasing moisture content, while higher temperature and RH enhanced the rewetting process. The rewetting time of leaf blades at 30 °C with 90% RH was reduced by 71.43% compared to that at 30 °C with 70% RH. For main veins, the rewetting time at 30 °C with 90% RH was shortened
by 50.00% compared to 30 °C with 80% RH. The Peleg model was determined as the optimal dynamic model for describing the rewetting characters for leaf blades and main veins. Two moisture states were observed: strongly bound moisture and weakly bound moisture. The peak area of strongly bound
moisture increased gradually, while the peak area of weakly bound moisture initially increased and then decreased. At the moisture content of 0.15 g/g, the strongly bound moisture content of leaf blades decreased by 7.75% compared to main veins, whereas the weakly bound moisture content of
leaf blades increased by 3.04 times. However, the proportion of weakly bound moisture decreased despite the increasing proportion of strongly bound moisture. Furthermore, the relaxation time of leaf blades and main veins increased during rewetting. The mechanical properties analysis revealed
a correlation between breaking force, strain, and elastic modulus with the content of strongly bound moisture. This study provides a theoretical basis for the development of improved rewetting processes in tobacco production.
Soil Microbial Community Structure and Its Contribution to Carbon Cycling in the Yalu River Estuary Wetland
Authors: Song Yu , Gao Ming , Wang Peng , Qu Guiwei , Zhang Chunpeng
Published: February 2024

Wetland microbial communities play a vital role in ecosystem functioning, particularly in the intricate processes of carbon cycling. This study employed metagenomic sequencing to investigate the diversity, composition, structural differences, carbon cycling functional gene, and microbial
species of soil microbial communities in five distinct soil types of the Yalu River estuary wetland, including shoal soil, bog soil, paddy soil, meadow soil, and brown forest soil. We further explored the influence of environmental factors on both the microbial community structure and carbon
cycling functional genes. Our results revealed a bacterial-dominated soil microbial community, constituting about 97.6%. Archaea and fungi represented relatively minor fractions, at 1.9% and 0.4%, respectively. While no significant differences were observed in Chao1 indices between bacterial
and fungal communities, the Shannon index revealed notable differences. Both Chao1 and Shannon indices exhibited significant variations within the archaeal communities. The dominant bacterial phyla were Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Acidobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Nitrospirae. Thaumarchaeota,
Crenarchaeota, and Euryarchaeota formed the major archaeal phyla, while Ascomycota, Mucoromycota, and Basidiomycota were the dominant fungal phyla. Non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) analysis based on Bray-Curtis distance revealed notable differences in the bacterial, archaeal, and
fungal community structures across the samples. Redundancy analysis (RDA) identified key environmental factors for the major phyla. Soil pH, soil organic carbon (SOC), electrical conductivity (EC), and total phosphorus (TP) were the main influencing factors for bacteria, while soil TP, EC,
total sulfur (TS), and SOC were the primary drivers for archaeal phyla. Soil total nitrogen (TN) and EC were the main influencing factors for fungal phyla. Analysis of key carbon cycling pathway genes utilizing the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) database and clustering heatmap
revealed some variations in functional gene composition across different soil types. Mantel test indicated that pH, TN, and SOC were the primary environmental factors influencing microbial functional genes associated with soil carbon cycling. Stratified bar chart analysis further demonstrated
that the major contributors to carbon cycling originated from corresponding dominatnt phyla and genera of Proteobacteria, Thaumarchaeota, Actinomycetota, Euryarchaeota, and Bacteroidota. The species and relative abundance of microorganisms associated with carbon cycling pathways varied among
the samples. These findings provide a crucial reference for informing the conservation and sustainable management of wetland ecosystems in the Yalu River estuary.
Effect of Curcumin-Loaded Zein/Polysaccharides Nanoparticles on Fatigue Stress Injury
Authors: Liu Qin
Published: February 2024

In this study, we prepare core–shell nanoparticles as a delivery system for curcumin (Cur). The nanoparticles are composed of Zein and two polysaccharides, namely gum arabic (GA) and flaxseed gum (FG). Furthermore, we investigate the effect of Cur-loaded nanoparticles on fatigue
stress injury using an animal fatigue stress model. Furthermore, we design a microneedle patch to enhance the delivery and sustained release of these nanoparticles. The results demonstrated that compared to the model group, all treatment groups exhibited significantly prolonged exhausted swimming
and running times (P < 0.001), with the high-dose treatment group showing the longest running time. Moreover, our findings revealed that Cur-loaded nanoparticles possessed superior anti-fatigue stress activation properties compared to free Cur and Cur mixed with blank nanoparticles.
Additionally, by enhancing drug penetration into the stratum corneum of the skin, our microneedle carrier greatly improved drug delivery efficiency.
The Effect of Convective/Advective Precipitation Partitions on the Precipitation Isotopes in the Monsoon Regions of China: A Case Study of Changsha
Authors: Xiao Zhuoyong , Zhang Xinping , Xiao Xiong , Chang Xin , He Xinguang
Published: February 2024

Convective/advective precipitation partitions refer to the divisions of precipitation that are either convective or advective in nature, relative to the total precipitation amount. These distinct partitions can have a significant influence on the stable isotope composition of precipitation. This study analyzed and compared the effect of precipitation partitions on δ18O in precipitation (δ18Op) by using daily precipitation stable isotope data from Changsha station and monthly precipitation stable isotope data from the Global Network of Isotopes in Precipitation (GNIP), under different time scales, time intervals (i.e., annual, warm season, and cold season), and precipitation intensities. The results showed that the correlation between the convective precipitation fraction (CPF) and total precipitation amount was influenced by the intensity of convection in different time intervals. On both the daily and monthly scales, the CPF decreased as the precipitation amount increased in the warm season, while it increased with increasing precipitation amount in the cold season. Regardless of the season, daily δ18Op at Changsha station consistently increased with an increase in daily CPF. On a daily scale, the effect of convective activity on δ18Op was stronger than that of the “precipitation amount effect” in the cold season, as compared to the situation in the warm season. As a result, the regression line slope between δ18Op and CPF increased with increasing precipitation intensity in the warm season, meaning that as the CPF increased, the δ18Op increased at a faster rate under higher precipitation intensity. Similarly, the slope increased with increasing precipitation intensity in the cold season. This suggests that precipitation intensity and convection intensity can affect the relationship between δ18Op and CPF. Our findings shed light on how different precipitation partitions affect stable isotope composition of precipitation, thus enhancing our understanding of the variability of precipitation stable isotopes in the monsoon regions of China.

Significance Statement

This study aims to better elucidate the influence of different precipitation partitions on precipitation stable isotopes. In the eastern monsoon region of China, stable isotopes in precipitation showed a robust positive relationship with convective precipitation faction. On a daily scale, the convective activity enhanced the influences of the “precipitation amount effect” on precipitation stable isotopes in the warm season and reduced such influences in the cold season. These results improve our understanding of stable isotopic variability of precipitation in the eastern monsoon region, China.
Comparison of Allergen Immunotherapy Alone and in Conjunction With Turbinate Surgery for Nasal Obstruction in Perennial Allergic Rhinitis Patients
Authors: Chong Amaris Xin Jie , Alvarado Raquel , Rimmer Janet , Campbell Raewyn G. , Kalish Larry , Png Lu Hui , Harvey Richard J.
Published: February 2024

Background:

Nasal obstruction, triggered by allergic rhinitis, often does not resolve with allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) alone, thus inferior turbinate reduction surgery (ITR) may be required. This study aims to investigate the impact of combined treatment on nasal obstruction, as evidence is currently limited.

Methodology/Principal:

A retrospective cohort study of perennial allergic rhinitis patients experiencing nasal obstruction and undergoing ≥12 months AIT was conducted. Two groups were derived, those undergoing AIT—with or without an ITR. Patient reported nasal obstruction (evaluated with questionnaires) and nasal airway function (Nasal Peak Inspiratory Flow [NPIF] and Nasal Airflow Resistance [NAR]) were monitored. The change from baseline to 12 months post-treatment in each group were compared.

Results:

A total of 118 patients (33.71 ± 14.43 years, 41.5% female) were recruited, 72% had AIT and 28% AIT&ITR. At baseline, the AIT&ITR group had a higher level of nasal obstruction (>moderate%; 63.6% vs 52.9%, P = .048). Post treatment, AIT&ITR group reported greater reduction in nasal obstruction (>1 category change: 75.8% vs 48.2%, P = .002). Similarly, the AIT&ITR group had greater improvement in nasal function by NPIF (−13.9 ± 110.3 L/minute vs −3.4 ± 78.1 L/minute, P = .049) and NAR (−0.120 ± 0.342 Pa/cm³/second vs −0.093 ± 0.224 Pa/cm³/second, P = .050).

Conclusions:

Allergic rhinitis patients, with moderate to severe nasal obstruction, who undergo combined AIT&ITR have greater relief of nasal obstruction and improved airflow analysis compared to AIT alone.
The Effect of Death Anxiety on Work Passion: Moderating Roles of Work Centrality and Work Connection
Authors: AL-Dossary Saeed A. , Sousa Cátia , Gonçalves Gabriela
Published: February 2024

Fear of death is an emotional manifestation of the instinct for self-preservation. Any threat to our existence induces an anxiety response. Death anxiety can trigger obsessive-compulsive behaviours, such as an obsessive passion for work. Using a sample of 314 participants (68.2% female), with a mean age of 38.97 years (SD = 10.36), this study sought to observe the predictive effect of death anxiety on work passion, as well as the moderating effect of work-family centrality and connection on the relationship between anxiety and passion. The results revealed that death anxiety negatively affects harmonious passion, and positively affects obsessive passion. Work centrality did not moderate the influence of death anxiety on harmonious and obsessive passion. Nonetheless, work connection moderated the influence of death anxiety on harmonious passion. The negative influence of death anxiety on harmonious passion was greater in a group with high work connection than a group with low connection.
From Ecclesial Sin to Ecclesial Han: Ecclesiology Beyond “A Church of Sinners and Saints”
Authors: Tang Flora x.
Published: February 2024

Debates within ecclesiology on the nature and possibility of ecclesial sin have regained interest in the midst of rising awareness of the church’s historical wrongs. Most theologies and metaphors of a sinful church, however, fail to consider the theological identity of the “sinned against” within the church. This article reads Andrew Sung Park’s theology of han (a Korean concept denoting a complex sense of woundedness) as the underside of sin against Karl Rahner’s theology of a church of sinners to point toward a vision of ecclesial han that attends to the woundedness within the church and its healing.
Aesthetics and Contemporary Ethics
Authors: O’Connell Maureen
Published: February 2024

This article provides a literature review on aesthetics and ethics, with a particular focus on how attention to aesthetics generates needed insights into ethical theory and the dynamics of moral practice.
Introduction: Verticality, radicalism, resistance
Authors: Ebbensgaard Casper Laing , Murawski Michał , Woodcraft Saffron , Zubovich Katherine
Published: February 2024

In recent decades urban scholarship has witnessed a ‘vertical’ or ‘volumetric’ turn that has advanced understandings of the multi-modal power asymmetries cutting through and organising urban space. Yet, this volumetric scholarship often remains locked into binary critiques – of success/failure, inclusion/exclusion, luxury/abjection, dispossession/accumulation, arborescent/rhizomatic, horizontal/vertical. This special issue tinkers with the limitations of these (unwittingly) binary urban geometries and volumetrologies – material as well as metaphorical ones. By building the etymological opposition of ‘the vertical’ with ‘the radical’ into the title of the volume (via the Latin root radix, meaning ‘root’), we seek to make the radical itself work with geometric and morphological associations. The papers in this special issue proffer diverse ethnographic, geographic and conceptual material for considering and theorising urban verticality in concert with rather than in opposition to its incumbent horizontalisms, diagonals, curls, zigzags and scattered planes. As we completed work on the special issue, the horrors of russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukrainian territory played out before our eyes. Accordingly, we make use of the introduction to reflect upon the insight that the war in Ukraine brings to bear on the intersection between domains of the urban, the vertical and the radical in the fraught, tense, vicious, fragile – but resistant – urban worlds of today. In doing so, we seek not only to render more clearly visible the violent effects of power verticals on lives, worlds and cities, but also to find seeds of hope in emergent, insurgent forms of (vertical as well as horizontal, and neither vertical nor horizontal) resistance.
The Chinese Adaptation and Validation of the Adolescents’ Ageism Toward Older Adults Scale
Authors: Wu Hanwei , Lu Yitao , Fan Zhiguang , Zhang Lehua
Published: February 2024

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to translate and validate the adolescents’ ageism toward older adults scale (AGES) in the Chinese cultural context and examine its psychometric properties among Chinese adolescents. Methods: The study consists of two phases with two separate samples. In phase one (sample 1: n = 407), exploratory factor analysis (EFA) is conducted to determine the factor structure of the C-AGES. In phase two (sample 2: n = 379), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) is performed to confirm the factor structure and assess the model fit of the C-AGES. Results: EFA reveals a two-factor structure consisting of 17 items for the C-AGES. CFA in sample 2 confirms the factor structure and demonstrates good model fit. The C-AGES also exhibits high criterion validity, internal consistency, and cross-gender invariance. Discussion: The results suggest that the C-AGES is a valid measurement tool for assessing agism among Chinese adolescents.
The Influence of Parenting on Delinquency: The Mediating Role of Peers and the Moderating Role of Self-Control
Authors: Ray James V. , Park Hyunmin
Published: February 2024

This study uses data from the Pathways to Desistence study to test if parenting (monitoring and warmth) indirectly influences delinquency through its impact on delinquent peer association (antisocial influence and behavior) among a sample of serious juvenile offenders ( n = 1,354) and if this indirect effect is moderated by self-control. The results suggest that parental monitoring (but not warmth) predicted delinquency through both peer antisocial influence and peer behavior. Specifically, lower monitoring result in higher peer effects that, in turn, contribute to higher delinquency. The findings also suggest that this process is moderated by self-control such that the indirect effect is only significant at lower levels of self-control. The current study has important implications for understanding the role that peers and self-control play on the relationship between specific aspects of parenting. These findings can help to inform intervention and prevention programs that focus on enhancing parenting to reduce delinquency.
Perception of male college librarians towards faculty status in Khyber Pakhtunkhawa, Pakistan
Authors: Adil Abdul Razzaq , Mairaj Muhammad Ijaz
Published: February 2024

This study explores the perception of male college librarians in the Khyber Pakhtunkhawa province of Pakistan regarding the merits of attaining faculty status, merging into teaching cadres, or retaining their current positions. A questionnaire was adapted for the online survey and data collection. The study surveyed 116 out of a target population of 125 librarians, resulting in a response rate of 92.8%. The research reveals a prevalent dissatisfaction among librarians with their current status. They express a strong preference for merging into the teaching cadre to enhance their respect and honor, secure faculty designations, equal benefits, and promotional opportunities aligned with the positions held by their teaching counterparts. Challenges identified include a lack of struggle and unity for shared efforts among librarians, limited involvement in decision-making processes and ineffective leadership. The study concludes that active efforts by librarians to become part of the teaching cadre or obtain faculty status are crucial. Recommendations emphasize alignment with government education policies and the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan decision.