bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MEMBIDIK POTENSI EKONOMI PESANTREN SEBAGAI PENUNJANG INDUSTRI HALAL INDONESIA
Authors: Huwaidi M Hibatullah
Published: May 2024

Indonesia memiliki peluang yang sangat besar untuk memimpin industri pasar halal dunia. Dengan menjadi negara mayoritas umat muslim terbesar dunia, hal tersebut tentu bisa menjadi penunjang industri halal inidonesia. Namun sayangnya masih banyak pekerjaan rumah yang harus diselesaikan. Terutama mengenai rendahnya kualitas sumber daya manusia yang dimiliki indonesia tentang ilmu pengetahuan dan juga ilmu halal haram. Pesantren dalam hal ini dirasa bisa menjadi jawaban dari permasalahan tersebut. Potensi ekonomi yang dimiliki pesantren bisa dimanfaatkan untuk mencapai keinginan tersebut. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk membaca potensi apa saja yang dimiliki pesantren untuk menyokong industri halal indonesia. Dalam penelitian ini jga digunakan metodologi kualitatif desktriptif untuk memahami berbagai konsep yang ditemukan dalam proses penelitian. Hasil dari penelitian ini adalah pesantren memiliki potensi besar untuk mendukung industri halal indonesia dalam hal peningkatan kualitas sumber daya manusia yang menjadi permasalahan industri halal indonesia sendiri. Pesantren yang kini tidak hanya mengajarkan keilmuan keagamaan tapi juga ilmu pengetahuan modern diharapkan mampu mencetak kader-kader yang dapat membawa indonesia memimpin industri halal dunia.
investasi emas melalui produk pembiayaan BSi cicil emas untuk jangka panjang
Authors: Febrianto Ahmad , Ghani Fikri Ahmad
Published: May 2024

Investment is one way to get profit or income. Gold investment is one of the investment alternatives for individuals, companies or institutions that have financial freedom to invest. The purpose of this study is to find out what are the advantages of investing in gold through gold installment financing products for the long term. This research method uses qualitative methods using descriptive types in the form of observations, interviews and documentation conducted by researchers. The result of this study is the investment benefits contained in this product, namely the benefits obtained from investing in gold, liquid (can be cashed out by mortgage for urgent needs), profitable (cheap tariffs), rising gold prices that continue to increase every year, low risk levels, safe (your gold is insured) those are some of the advantages that are the reason for me
Pengelolaan Keuangan Keluarga Perspektif Islamic Wealth Management
Authors: Maharani Julian , Putra Yuniarti Hidayah  Suyoso
Published: May 2024

The phenomenon of this research is when the Covid-19 pandemic spread, the divorce rate increased drastically, the highest percentage was due to the economy. Therefore the researcher wants to analyze family financial management from the perspective of Islamic wealth management. The aim is to provide a view that IWM can be used as a basis for better managing family finances. The author uses a qualitative approach method with field research (field studies) to obtain primary data that is in accordance with the issues raised. Besides that, the researcher also combined with a literature review system related to Islamic Wealth Management. The results of this study are the three families with different backgrounds, it can be said that unconsciously they have followed the principles of Islamic wealth management well, only in the last principle that has not been applied today and all informants have been aware of their primary, secondary and their tertiary. And they have considered that with the possessions they have been able to meet their needs.
Analisis Baitul Maal Wat Tamwil (BMT) Perspektif Al- Qur’an
Authors: Ghufron Mohammad Idil , Dewi Rohma
Published: May 2024

This study intends to analyze aspects of baitul maal wat tamwil (bmt) from the perspective of the Koran. This study uses qualitative research. The type of data in this research uses secondary data sourced from the Qur'an, Hadith, books, and journals as references. The development carried out is to modify the BMT that researches in the field to become BMT according to the perspective of the Koran. Another development is that we know each of the differences between the BMT in the field and the word of God. The next development is to determine whether BMT has been explained in the Qur'an or not. Other developments also add knowledge constructs about Islamic banking to conventional banks. This study has a qualitative approach. Determining the number of samples in this study adjusted to the snowball sampling technique. The data collection technique in this study was the technique of taking data sources, which at first were small in number and then enlarged. This was because the small data sources had not been able to provide satisfactory data, so looking for other informants who were used as data sources.
Evaluation of the phytoremediation potential of selected hydrophytes grown in wastewater. A case study in Sheikhupura, Pakistan
Authors: Tahira Syeda Anjum , Ibrahim Muhammad , Younas Saba , Ghani Sidra Abdul , Saleem Muhammad , Bano Saira , Tahir Uruj
Published: May 2024

Water pollution is a major environmental issue and human health risk worldwide.  With rapid industrialization and economic growth, water bodies are contaminated at large scale. In the current study the concentration of four heavy metals (HMs)  cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), and manganese (Mn) was measured in water, sediment, and hydrophytes (Eichhornia Crassipes, Pistia stratiotes and Lemna minor) samples collected from wastewater stream in Sheikhupura, Punjab, Pakistan. The results revealed that the concentrations of Cd (0.23 mg L-1), Cu (5.00 mg L-1), Mn (6.00 mg L-1), and Ni (3.00 mg L-1) in water samples were  above the permissible limits (APL) set by the World Health Organization (WHO). However, the concentration of Cd, Cu, Mn, and Ni in sediment samples was found to be below the maximum permissible limits (BMPL) set by  WHO. The WHO permissible limits for Cd, Cu, Mn, and Ni in water is 0.01, 0.02, 0.20, and 1.40 mg L-1 respectively while in sediments is 3.00, 100, 2000, and 50 mg kg-1 respectively.  In addition, Mn concentration was highest among all the tested hydrophytes, water, and sediment samples. HMs contents were higher in hydrophytes as compared to water and sediment samples. In addition, all three hydrophytes were found to absorb HMs from wastewater with bioaccumulation factor ranging from 2.52 to 216. Current data revealed that Pistia stratiotes have greater potential to absorb HMs from water as compared to Eichhornia Crassipes, and Lemna minor
Mathematical modeling of the synergistic interplay of radiotherapy and immunotherapy in anti-cancer treatments
Authors: Castorina Paolo , Castiglione Filippo , Ferini Gianluca , Forte Stefano , Martorana Emanuele , Giuffrida Dario
Published: May 2024

Introduction

While radiotherapy has long been recognized for its ability to directly ablate cancer cells through necrosis or apoptosis, radiotherapy-induced abscopal effect suggests that its impact extends beyond local tumor destruction thanks to immune response. Cellular proliferation and necrosis have been extensively studied using mathematical models that simulate tumor growth, such as Gompertz law, and the radiation effects, such as the linear-quadratic model. However, the effectiveness of radiotherapy-induced immune responses may vary among patients due to individual differences in radiation sensitivity and other factors.

Methods

We present a novel macroscopic approach designed to quantitatively analyze the intricate dynamics governing the interactions among the immune system, radiotherapy, and tumor progression. Building upon previous research demonstrating the synergistic effects of radiotherapy and immunotherapy in cancer treatment, we provide a comprehensive mathematical framework for understanding the underlying mechanisms driving these interactions.

Results

Our method leverages macroscopic observations and mathematical modeling to capture the overarching dynamics of this interplay, offering valuable insights for optimizing cancer treatment strategies. One shows that Gompertz law can describe therapy effects with two effective parameters. This result permits quantitative data analyses, which give useful indications for the disease progression and clinical decisions.

Discussion

Through validation against diverse data sets from the literature, we demonstrate the reliability and versatility of our approach in predicting the time evolution of the disease and assessing the potential efficacy of radiotherapy-immunotherapy combinations. This further supports the promising potential of the abscopal effect, suggesting that in select cases, depending on tumor size, it may confer full efficacy to radiotherapy.
Comparative characterization of two monoclonal antibodies targeting canine PD-1
Authors: Kocikowski Mikolaj , Dziubek Katarzyna , Węgrzyn Katarzyna , Hrabal Vaclav , Zavadil-Kokas Filip , Vojtesek Borivoj , Alfaro Javier Antonio , Hupp Ted , Parys Maciej
Published: May 2024

Monoclonal antibodies targeting immune checkpoints have revolutionized oncology. Yet, the effectiveness of these treatments varies significantly among patients, and they are associated with unexpected adverse events, including hyperprogression. The murine research model used in drug development fails to recapitulate both the functional human immune system and the population heterogeneity. Hence, a novel model is urgently needed to study the consequences of immune checkpoint blockade. Dogs appear to be uniquely suited for this role. Approximately 1 in 4 companion dogs dies from cancer, yet no antibodies are commercially available for use in veterinary oncology. Here we characterize two novel antibodies that bind canine PD-1 with sub-nanomolar affinity as measured by SPR. Both antibodies block the clinically crucial PD-1/PD-L1 interaction in a competitive ELISA assay. Additionally, the antibodies were tested with a broad range of assays including Western Blot, ELISA, flow cytometry, immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry. The antibodies appear to bind two distinct epitopes as predicted by molecular modeling and peptide phage display. Our study provides new tools for canine oncology research and a potential veterinary therapeutic.
Efficacy of Shenglin decoction in preventing acute severe lymphocytopenia in patients with non-small cell lung cancer undergoing concurrent chemoradiotherapy: a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Deng Jiayao , Gong Cuicui , Xiao Qi , Xu Bo , Li Huakang , Wu Ziliang , Xiao Qian , Gu Pengxuan , Li Qiang , Li Bin , Wang Yue , Lin Bing , Xu Ke
Published: May 2024

Background

Definitive concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) followed by maintenance therapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors offers the best chance of cure for patients with stage III non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). A significant challenge in this regimen is the occurrence of acute severe lymphopenia (ASL), which can compromise treatment efficacy. Currently, there are no effective strategies for preventing and treating ASL. Shenglin decoction (SLD), a traditional Chinese herbal medicine formulation, has demonstrated preliminary efficacy in mitigating ASL. However, robust evidence from clinical trials and a clear understanding of its mechanism of action are still needed. This study aims to comprehensively assess the efficacy, safety, and underlying mechanisms of SLD in the prevention of ASL.

Methods

This prospective, dual-center, open-label, randomized controlled trial will enroll 140 stage III NSCLC patients. Participants will be randomly allocated in a 1:1 ratio to a control group or an experimental group. Both groups will undergo definitive CCRT. Alongside the commencement of CCRT, the experimental group will receive an additional oral SLD intervention for a duration of three months. The primary outcome is the incidence rate of ASL, defined as the proportion of patients who experience at least one instance of a total lymphocyte count falling below 0.5 × 10^9 cells/L within 3 months of initiating CCRT treatment. Additionally, 16S rRNA gene sequencing analysis of fecal samples to assess gut microbiota, as well as metabolomic analysis of fecal/blood samples, will be conducted to explore potential mechanisms.

Discussion

This study protocol aims to rigorously evaluate the efficacy and safety of SLD, as well as elucidate its mechanism of action in preventing ASL. Successful outcomes could establish SLD as an evidence-based intervention for ASL prevention in NSCLC patients undergoing CCRT.

Trial Registration

The trial was registered at the Chinese Clinical Trials Registry (ChiCTR2300071788, https://www.chictr.org.cn/).
EORTC 2238 “De-Escalate”: a pragmatic trial to revisit intermittent androgen deprivation therapy in the era of new androgen receptor pathway inhibitors
Authors: Grisay Guillaume , Turco Fabio , Litiere Saskia , Fournier Béatrice , Patrikidou Anna , Gallardo Enrique , McDermott Ray , Alanya Ahu , Gillessen Silke , Tombal Bertrand
Published: May 2024

The landscape of treating metastatic prostate cancer has evolved with the addition of Androgen Receptor pathway inhibitor (ARPI) to Androgen Deprivation Therapy (ADT), significantly improving survival rates. However, prolonged use of these therapies introduces notable side effects, prompting a need to revisit intermittent treatment duration. The EORTC 2238 De-Escalate trial is a pragmatic trial seeking to reassess the role of intermittent therapy in patients undergoing maximal androgen blockade (MAB) for metastatic hormone naïve prostate cancer (mHNPC), i.e., the combination of ADT with an ARPI, with the aims of reducing side effects, enhancing Quality of Life (QoL) and optimizing resource usage, while maintaining oncological benefits.
Carbon nanotube filled rubber nanocomposites
Authors: K. C Nimita , Abraham Jiji , Thomas Martin George , Vahabi Henri , Maria Hanna J. , Thomas Sabu
Published: May 2024

Rubber (elastomer) based polymer nanocomposites have attracted wide range of attention from industries and other fields due to its exceptionally good mechanical, thermal and electrical properties. One of the promising candidates of this category is CNT filled rubber nanocomposites. This review throws light on the historical trajectory of development of CNT filled rubber nanocomposites. Various fabrication methods, detailed explanation of reinforcement mechanism in CNT/rubber nanocomposites and the relationship between the structure and properties are reviewed. The next part of the review discusses about the morphological and interface characteristics. An attempt to investigate the versatile mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties also included in the review. The final part of the review includes the applications of CNT filled rubber nanocomposites. Major applications in fields like electronics, sustainable biomedical and EMI shielding are discussed in detail. The review also focuses on the key challenges that arises while incorporating CNTs into rubber matrices.
The Pathologically Evolving Aggregation-State of Cells in Cancerous Tissues as Interpreted by Fractal and Multi-Fractal Dispersion Theory in Saturated Porous Formations
Authors: Pannone Marilena
Published: May 2024

A recent author’s fractal fluid-dynamic dispersion theory in porous media has focused on the derivation of the associated nonergodic (or effective) macrodispersion coefficients by a 3-D stochastic Lagrangian approach. As shown by the present study, the Fickian (i.e., the asymptotic constant) component of a properly normalized version of these coefficients exhibits a clearly detectable minimum in correspondence with the same fractal dimension (d ≅ 1.7) that seems to characterize the diffusion-limited aggregation state of cells in advanced stages of cancerous lesion progression. That circumstance suggests that such a critical fractal dimension, which is also reminiscent of the colloidal state of solutions (and may therefore identify the microscale architecture of both living and non-living two-phase systems in state transition conditions) may actually represent a sort of universal nature imprint. Additionally, it suggests that the closed-form analytical solution that was provided for the effective macrodispersion coefficients in fractal porous media may be a reliable candidate as a physically-based descriptor of blood perfusion dynamics in healthy as well as cancerous tissues. In order to evaluate the biological meaningfulness of this specific fluid-dynamic parameter, a preliminary validation is performed by comparison with the results of imaging-based clinical surveys. Moreover, a multifractal extension of the theory is proposed and discussed in view of a perspective interpretative diagnostic utilization.
A Study on Tourist Satisfaction Based on the Conservation and Reuse of Alleyway Spaces in Urban Historic Neighborhoods
Authors: Song Yimin , Han Chenqi , Zhao Yang
Published: May 2024

The preservation and reuse of historical alley spaces infuse these areas with renewed vitality, which holds significant importance for the direction of preservation and restoration efforts in historical districts. This paper focuses on Jinyu Alley in Quanzhou and identifies a study targeting tourists for the protection and reuse of historical alley spaces. Through preliminary research and interviews, a system of evaluation indicators for urban historical alley spaces post-usage was established using a factor analysis, extracting five main components: historical context, neighborhood space, commercial environment, supporting facilities, and operational management. Additionally, a modified importance–performance analysis (IPA) method was employed to conduct a quadrant analysis on tourist satisfaction evaluation indicators. Transformation quadrant distribution maps of various evaluation indicators reveal dissatisfaction among tourists with certain aspects of supporting facilities, the commercial environment, and neighborhood space. Relevant departments should prioritize improvements in dining quality, business variety, neighborhood traffic connections and transformations, neighborhood space form and scale, landscape greening, environmental elements, parking availability, and trash bin density for future enhancements. Finally, based on the results of tourist satisfaction surveys and information gathered from interviews with a minority of residents, a more inclusive and sustainable strategy for the protection and reuse of historical alley spaces is formulated.
Minimally Invasive Conversion Surgery for Unresectable Gastric Cancer with Splenic Metastasis and Splenic Vein Tumor Thrombus: A Case Report
Authors: Tanioka Nobuhisa , Kuwahara Michio , Sakai Takashi , Nokubo Yuzuko , Shimizu Shigeto , Hiroi Makoto , Akimori Toyokazu
Published: May 2024

While the importance of conversion surgery has increased with the development of systemic chemotherapy for gastric cancer (GC), reports of conversion surgery for patients with GC with distant metastasis and tumor thrombus are extremely scarce, and a definitive surgical strategy has yet to be established. Herein, we report a 67-year-old man with left abdominal pain referred to our hospital following a diagnosis of unresectable GC. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy and contrast-enhanced abdominal computed tomography (CT) revealed advanced GC with splenic metastasis. A splenic vein tumor thrombus (SVTT) and a continuous thrombus to the main trunk of the portal vein were detected. The patient was treated with anticoagulation therapy and systemic chemotherapy comprising S-1 and oxaliplatin. One year following chemotherapy initiation, a CT scan revealed progressive disease (PD); therefore, the chemotherapy regimen was switched to ramucirumab with paclitaxel. After 10 courses of chemotherapy resulting in primary tumor and SVTT shrinkage, the patient underwent laparoscopic total gastrectomy (LTG) and distal pancreaticosplenectomy (DPS). He was discharged without complications and remained alive 6 months postoperatively without recurrence. In summary, the wait-and-see approach was effective in a patient with GC with splenic metastasis and SVTT, ultimately leading to an R0 resection performed via LTG and DPS.
Investigation of Thermo-Hydraulics in a Lid-Driven Square Cavity with a Heated Hemispherical Obstacle at the Bottom
Authors: Rashid Farhan Lafta , Khalaf Abbas Fadhil , Ameen Arman , Al-Obaidi Mudhar A.
Published: May 2024

Lid-driven cavity (LDC) flow is a significant area of study in fluid mechanics due to its common occurrence in engineering challenges. However, using numerical simulations (ANSYS Fluent) to accurately predict fluid flow and mixed convective heat transfer features, incorporating both a moving top wall and a heated hemispherical obstruction at the bottom, has not yet been attempted. This study aims to numerically demonstrate forced convection in a lid-driven square cavity (LDSC) with a moving top wall and a heated hemispherical obstacle at the bottom. The cavity is filled with a Newtonian fluid and subjected to a specific set of velocities (5, 10, 15, and 20 m/s) at the moving wall. The finite volume method is used to solve the governing equations using the Boussinesq approximation and the parallel flow assumption. The impact of various cavity geometries, as well as the influence of the moving top wall on fluid flow and heat transfer within the cavity, are evaluated. The results of this study indicate that the movement of the wall significantly disrupts the flow field inside the cavity, promoting excellent mixing between the flow field below the moving wall and within the cavity. The static pressure exhibits fluctuations, with the highest value observed at the top of the cavity of 1 m width (adjacent to the moving wall) and the lowest at 0.6 m. Furthermore, dynamic pressure experiences a linear increase until reaching its peak at 0.7 m, followed by a steady decrease toward the moving wall. The velocity of the internal surface fluctuates unpredictably along its length while other parameters remain relatively stable.
Effects Analysis of FAME on the Engine Characteristics of Different Polymerized Biofuels in Compression Ignition Engine
Authors: Zhao Hongting , Zhang Zhiqing , Lu Kai , Ye Yanshuai , Gao Sheng
Published: May 2024

Environmental pollution caused by marine engines fueled with fossil fuels is a matter of growing significance. The search for renewable and clean energy sources and improvements in the way fossil fuels are burnt aims to reduce the environmental impact of these engines. For this purpose, fatty acid methyl esters were produced from pure canola oil using KOH-assisted methanol-based transesterification with a maximum yield of 90.68 ± 1.6%. The marine engine’s model was created with CONVERGE software, followed by experimental verification. This paper examines the blended fuel characteristics of a diesel engine with biodiesel blends (0%, 5%, 10%, and 15%) at different loads of engines (50%, 75%, and 100%). It also explores the variation in these characteristics of B10 (10% biodiesel–diesel blends) at three different load conditions and four different EGR rates (0%, 5%, 10%, and 15%). The results indicate that the addition of biodiesel to diesel fuel reduces CO, HC, and soot emissions, while increasing NOx emissions. Additionally, the EGR rate decreases NOx emissions but results in higher levels of soot, CO, and HC emissions. Finally, response surface methodology was used to elicit the engine’s characteristics. It was determined that the optimum experimental operating conditions were 100% engine load, 6.9% biodiesel addition, and 7.7% EGR. The corresponding BTE, BSFC, NOx, and HC emissions were 38.15%, 282.62 g/(kW-h), 274.38 ppm, and 410.37 ppm, respectively.
Monte Carlo Simulation of the CO2 Flooding Efficiency at a Core Scale for Different Oil Compositions
Authors: Andreeva Anna , Afanasyev Andrey
Published: May 2024

The evaluation of water-alternating-gas (WAG) efficiency and profitability is complicated by a large number of reservoir, operating, and economic parameters and constraints. This study aims at understanding the influence of the oil composition on different WAG injections. By employing compositional reservoir modeling and the Monte Carlo method to characterize the diversity of oils occurring in nature, we simulate the microscopic displacement efficiency of CO2 flooding when it is applied to both light- and heavy-oil reservoirs. We find that the economic performance of WAG in both miscible and immiscible scenarios is mainly characterized by the dimensionless injection rate and the oil density at surface conditions. Neither the bubble point pressure nor the minimum miscibility pressure can be used for the quantification of the optimal WAG parameters. We present our estimates of the best strategies for the miscible and immiscible injections and verify some of our previous results for randomly sampled oils. In particular, we demonstrate that CO2 flooding is better to apply at higher-dimensionless injection rates. We show that the injection of CO2 organized at a light-oil reservoir results in a higher profitability of WAG, although this comes at the cost of lower carbon storage efficiency.
Role of Foreign Phases, Synergistic Effects, and Morphology in the HER Performance of Trimetallic Pentlandites with Non-Equimolar Co:Fe:Ni Ratio
Authors: Kubowicz Maciej , Kożusznik Miłosz , Kurek Tomasz , Mars Krzysztof , Mikuła Andrzej
Published: May 2024

Since pentlandites are among the most promising catalysts for hydrogen evolution reactions (HER), in this study, we investigated the influence of different cobalt, iron, and nickel substitutions in the cationic sublattice and the form of the material (powder, ingot, sintered pellet) on catalytic performance. This complements previous results regarding a multi-component approach in these chalcogenides. It was shown that in the case of sulfur-rich pentlandites with a non-equimolar ratio of Co, Fe, and Ni, the impact of intrinsic material properties is smaller than the surface-related effects. Among powder forms, catalysts based on a combination of Fe and Co perform the best. However, in volumetric forms, extremely high contents of individual metals are favorable, albeit they are associated with active precipitations of foreign phases. The presence of these phases positively affects the recorded currents but slows down the reaction kinetics. These findings shed light on the nuanced interplay between material composition, form, and HER properties, offering insights for tailored catalyst design.
Experimental Validation of Electrothermal and Aging Parameter Identification for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Conte Francesco , Giallongo Marco , Kaza Daniele , Natrella Gianluca , Tachibana Ryohei , Tsuji Shinji , Silvestro Federico , Vichi Giovanni
Published: May 2024

Modeling and predicting the long-term performance of Li-ion batteries is crucial for the effective design and efficient operation of integrated energy systems. In this paper, we introduce a comprehensive semi-empirical model for Li-ion cells, capturing electrothermal and aging features. This model replicates the evolution of cell voltage, capacity, and internal resistance, in relation to the cell actual operating conditions, and estimates the ongoing degradation in capacity and internal resistance due to the battery use. Thus, the model articulates into two sub-models, an electrothermal one, describing the battery voltage, and an aging one, computing the ongoing degradation. We first propose an approach to identify the parameters of both sub-models. Then, we validate the identification procedure and the accuracy of the electrothermal and aging models through an experimental campaign, also comprising two real cycle load tests at different temperatures, in which real measurements collected from real Li-ion cells are used. The overall model demonstrates good performances in simulating battery characteristics and forecasting degradation. The results show a Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) lower than 1% for battery voltage and capacity, and a maximum absolute error on internal resistance that is on par with the most up-to-date empirical models. The proposed approach is therefore well-suited for implementation in system modeling, and can be employed as an informative tool for enhancing battery design and operational strategies.
Analysis of Grid Performance with Diversified Distributed Resources and Storage Integration: A Bilevel Approach with Network-Oriented PSO
Authors: El Sayed Ahmad , Poyrazoglu Gokturk
Published: May 2024

The growing deployment of distributed resources significantly affects the distribution grid performance in most countries. The optimal sizing and placement of these resources have become increasingly crucial to mitigating grid issues and reducing costs. Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) is widely used to address such problems but faces computational inefficiency due to its numerical convergence behavior. This limits its effectiveness, especially for power system problems, because the numerical distance between two nodes in power systems might be different from the actual electrical distance. In this paper, a scalable bilevel optimization problem with two novel algorithms enhances PSO’s computational efficiency. While the resistivity-driven algorithm strategically targets low-resistivity regions and guides PSO toward areas with lower losses, the connectivity-driven algorithm aligns solution spaces with the grid’s physical topology. It prioritizes actual physical neighbors during the search to prevent local optima traps. The tests of the algorithms on the IEEE 33-bus and the 69-bus and Norwegian networks show significant reductions in power losses (up to 74% for PV, wind, and storage) and improved voltage stability (a 21% reduction in mean voltage deviation index) with respect to the results of classical PSO. The proposed network-oriented PSO outperforms classical PSO by achieving a 2.84% reduction in the average fitness value for the IEEE 69-bus case with PV, wind, and storage deployment. The Norwegian case study affirms the effectiveness of the proposed approach in real-world applications through significant improvements in loss reduction and voltage stability.
Evaluation of Antimicrobial and Preservative Effects of Cinnamaldehyde and Clove Oil in Catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) Fillets Stored at 4 °C
Authors: Ebirim Rosemary I. , Long Wilbert
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to evaluate cinnamaldehyde (CN) and clove oil (CO) effectiveness in inhibiting growth and killing spoilage and total aerobic bacteria when overlaid with catfish fillet stored at 4 °C. A 1.00 mL concentration of CO inhibited growth by 2.90, 1.96, and 1.96 cm, respectively, for S. baltica, A. hydrophilia, and total bacteria. Similarly, treatment with 1.00 mL of CN resulted in ZIB of 2.17, 2.10, and 1.10 cm, respectively, for S. baltica, A. hydrophilia, and total bacteria from catfish exudates. Total bacteria from catfish exudates treated with 0.50 mL CN for 40 min, resulted in a 6.84 log decrease, and treatment with 1.00 mL resulted in a 5.66 log decrease at 40 min. Total bacteria exudates treated with 0.50 mL CO resulted in a 9.69 log reduction at 40 min. Total bacteria treated with 1.00 mL CO resulted in a 7.69 log decrease at 7 days, while untreated pads overlaid with catfish resulted in ≥9.00 CFU/mL. However, treated absorbent pads with catfish at 7 days, using 0.50 mL and 1.00 mL CN, had a bacterial recovery of 5.53 and 1.88 log CFU/mL, respectively. Furthermore, CO at 0.50 mL and 1.00 mL reduced the bacteria count to 5.21 and 1.53 log CFU/mL, respectively, at day 7.
‘I Am a Broken Policy’: A Critical Reflection on Whiteness and Gender Anti-Black Racism in Institutions of Higher Education and Social Services
Authors: Younger Tiffany N.
Published: May 2024

This personal narrative is a critical reflection and affirmation letter to Black women. Throughout this commentary, at the end of each section, I have included what I call “gems”. I hope they serve as a manifesto for our collective healing from working in institutions that center on the ideologies and practices of dominance. This piece particularly focuses on the dominant ideology and practice of “whiteness” within institutions as a surveillance tool through policy that directly impacts Black women’s wellbeing through gender anti-black racism. Through storytelling and drawing on Black feminist scholarship, this narrative exposes the challenges I faced with institutional policies and practices as I pursued my career in both academia and social service work. Throughout this narrative, I highlight how the undercurrent of whiteness is embedded in the foundation of institutional policy and practices. This narrative serves as a demand for institutional accountability and reckoning with the coloniality of epistemology and ontology. There is a great emotional toll for Black women who are confronting and resisting gendered anti-black racism with deep internal struggles and triumphs. The violent institutional practices seek to eclipse Black women’s ability to dream, imagine and create. Whiteness is centered in institutional infrastructure, serves as a distraction, and impedes our ability to conceptualize the world we desire. We deserve to have imagination in our work. This narrative is a reflection of the harm of whiteness, a guide for Black women academics, a manifesto for change, and a testament to our humanity.
The Response of Hormones, Reactive Oxygen Species and Nitric Oxide in the Polyethylene-Glycol-Promoted, Salt–Alkali-Stress-Induced Embryo Germination of Sorbus pohuashanensis
Authors: Wang Xiaodong , Shen Hailong , Yang Ling
Published: May 2024

Polyethylene glycol can abrogate plant seed dormancy and alleviate salt–alkali stress damage to plants, but its role in embryonic dormancy abrogation and germination in Sorbus pohuashanensis is not yet clear. The mechanism by which polyethylene glycol promotes the release of embryonic dormancy may be related to the synthesis and metabolism of endogenous hormones, reactive oxygen species and reactive nitrogen. In this article, germination in indoor culture dishes was used, and the most suitable conditions for treating S. pohuashanensis embryos, with polyethylene glycol (PEG) and sodium carbonate (Na2CO3), were selected. Germination was observed and recorded, and related physiological indicators such as endogenous hormones, reactive oxygen species and reactive nitrogen were measured and analyzed to elucidate the mechanism of polyethylene glycol in alleviating salt–alkali stress in S. pohuashanensis embryos. The results showed that soaking seeds in 5% PEG for 5 days is the best condition to promote germination, which can increase the germination rate of embryos under salt–alkali stress by 1–2 times and improve indicators such as germination speed and the germination index. Polyethylene glycol led to an increase in gibberellin (GA), indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), ethylene (ETH), cytokinin (CTK), nitric oxide (NO), soluble protein and soluble sugar in the embryos under salt–alkali stress; increased activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT), nitrate reductase (NR) and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) in the embryos; a reduction in the accumulation of abscisic acid (ABA), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and malondialdehyde (MDA). Therefore, it is suggested that the inhibitory effect of polyethylene glycol on the salt–alkali-stress-induced germination of S. pohuashanensis embryos is closely related to the response of endogenous hormones, reactive oxygen species and nitric oxide signalling.
Crack Resistance of Lightly Reinforced Concrete Structures
Authors: Słowik Marta , Błazik-Borowa Ewa , Sulewska Maria Jolanta , Skrzypczak Izabela , Kokoszka Wanda
Published: May 2024

The crack resistance of concrete structures with low reinforcement ratios requires a broader examination. It is particularly important in the case of foundations working in changing subsoil conditions. Unfavorable phenomena occurring in the subsoil (e.g., ground subsidence, landslips, non-uniform settlement) can lead to unexpected cracking. Therefore, it is necessary to check the effectiveness of the low reinforcement provided. As there are limited studies on lightly reinforced concrete structures, we performed our own experimental investigation and numerical calculations. In the beams analyzed, the reinforcement ratio varied from 0.05% to 0.20%. It was found that crack resistance in concrete members depends on the reinforcement ratio and steel bar distribution. A comprehensive method was proposed for estimating the crack resistance of lightly reinforced concrete members in which both the reinforcement ratio and the reinforcement dispersion ratio were taken into account. Furthermore, the method considered the size effect and the fracture properties of concrete. The proposed method provides the basis for extrapolation of the test results obtained for small elements and conclusions for members with large cross-sections, such as foundations, which frequently use lightly reinforced concrete.
Enhancement of Filtration Performance Characteristics of Glass Fiber-Based Filter Media, Part 1: Mechanical Modification with Electrospun Nanofibers
Authors: Weiter Laura , Leyer Stephan , Duchowski John K.
Published: May 2024

Various modifications of standard glass fiber filtration media using electrospun PA66 nanofibers are described. PA66 were selected because they were readily available from commercial sources. Other polymers, such as PP, PET and PBT, could also be used. The first set of samples was prepared by mixing the nanofibers at two, three and five weight percent with glass fibers, and the second by laying the same proportion of the nanofibers directly onto the downstream side of the substrate. The aim of these modifications was to improve the three most basic functionalities of filter media, the separation efficiency, the differential pressure (ΔP) and the dirt holding capacity (DHC). The modified media samples were evaluated with the standard textile characterization techniques and filtration performance evaluation procedures. The results showed differences in the several tens of percentage points achieved with the two modification methods. Moreover, additional differences in performance were observed depending on the percentage of nanofibers admixed to the substrate. These differences were most apparent in the filtration efficiency and the DHC, both by several percentage points, with no apparent effect on the ∆P. The results strongly suggest that the preparation of new filter media by incorporating nanofibers directly into the matrix can result in significant improvements in filtration performance characteristics.
The Optimization of the One-Pot Synthesis of Au@SiO2 Core–Shell Nanostructures: Modification with Dansyl Group and Their Fluorescent Properties
Authors: Kowalska Agata , Adamska Elżbieta , Synak Anna , Grobelna Beata
Published: May 2024

This work describes the optimization of the one-pot synthesis of fine core–shell nanostructures based on nanogold (Au NPs) and silica (SiO2). The obtained core–shell nanomaterials were characterized by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM and by the method of spectroscopes such as UV–Vis Spectroscopy and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR). In addition, the measurement of the zeta potential and size of the obtained particles helped present a full characterization of Au@SiO2 nanostructures. The results show that the influence of reagents acting as reducers, stabilizers, or precursors of the silica shell affects the morphology of the obtained material. By controlling the effect of the added silica precursor, the thickness of the shell can be manipulated, the reducer has an effect on the shape and variety, and then the stabilizer affects their agglomeration. This work provides also a new approach for Au@SiO2 core–shell nanostructure preparation by further modification with dansyl chloride (DNS–Cl). The results show that, by tuning the silica shell thickness, the intensity of the fluorescence spectrum of Au@SiO2–(CH2)3–NH–DNS nanocomposite is about 12 times higher than that of DNS–Cl.
On Spontaneous Dispersion as a Cause of Microstratification of Metal Melts
Authors: Chikova Olga A. , Tsepelev Vladimir S. , Shmakova Kseniya Yu.
Published: May 2024

The phenomenon of spontaneous dispersion is considered as the cause of the microstratification of metal melts. In a microstratification melt, a violation of long-range order in the arrangement of atoms (LRO) is observed, which corresponds to a dispersed particle size of more than 2 nm. Microseparation occurs due to spontaneous dispersion upon contact of liquid and solid metal or the mixing of two liquid metals. The possibility of spontaneous dispersion was assessed using three different criteria: Volmer’s cr iterion, Rehbinder’s criterion and the diffusion rate criterion. The diffusion rate criterion was obtained on the basis of the theory of rate processes, which describes how diffusing atoms overcome the interphase boundary. It has been established that Al–Sn melts contain colloidal-scale particles (4 nm), and Al–Si and Al–Ge melts contain atomic-scale particles (0.1 nm). For a system with a continuous series of Cu–Ni solid solutions in dispersion (Cu10Ni90—Cu20Ni80), the particle size is 2 nm. The particle size of the ternary eutectic GaInSn in the dispersion (Ga50In50—Ga50Sn50) is 5.6 nm, and the size of immiscible Cu–Fe melts in the dispersion (Cu80Fe20—Cu60Fe40) is 4.8 nm. Long-range order violations (LRO) and the presence of microlayering with colloidal particles larger than 20 nm were observed in the GaInSn ternary eutectic, in the Al–Sn simple eutectic with the preferential interaction of similar atoms, and in Cu–Fe melts with a monotectic phase diagram.
Comparison of Fracture Behavior in Single-Edge Notched Beams Reinforced with Steel Bars or CFRP Bars
Authors: Wang Zhiyong , Yang Yushu , Song Min , Zhang Jie , Wang Zhihua
Published: May 2024

To explore and compare the failure modes, deformation behaviors, and load-bearing capacities of single-edge notched (SEN) beams strengthened with carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) and steel bars, static and dynamic three-point bending tests on both types of concrete beams have been carried out in this study. During the static tests, the electro-hydraulic servo machine served as a loading device to apply pressure to CFRP beams and reinforced concrete (RC) beams. During the impact experiments, different impact velocities were imparted by adjusting the drop hammer’s height. Thus, information regarding crack propagation, energy absorption, and deformation was obtained. The results from the static tests showed that the RC beams predominantly experienced shear failure. In contrast, the CFRP beams primarily exhibited bending–shear failure, attributed to the relatively weaker bond strength between the bars and the concrete. Impact tests were conducted at three different velocities in this study. As the impact velocity increased, both types of concrete beams transitioned from bending failure to bending–shear failure. At the lowest velocity, the difference in energy absorption between beams reinforced with different materials was insignificant during the bending process. However, at the highest velocity, CFRP beams absorbed less energy than RC beams. The study of structures’ impact failure modes and their mechanical characteristics offers valuable references for the anti-collision design and protection of structures.
The Equivalence of Two Modes of Order Convergence
Authors: Sun Tao , Fan Nianbai
Published: May 2024

It is well known that if a poset satisfies Property A and its dual form, then the o-convergence and o2-convergence in the poset are equivalent. In this paper, we supply an example to illustrate that a poset in which the o-convergence and o2-convergence are equivalent may not satisfy Property A or its dual form, and carry out some further investigations on the equivalence of the o-convergence and o2-convergence. By introducing the concept of the local Frink ideals (the dually local Frink ideals) and establishing the correspondence between ID-pairs and nets in a poset, we prove that the o-convergence and o2-convergence of nets in a poset are equivalent if and only if the poset is ID-doubly continuous. This result gives a complete solution to the problem of E.S. Wolk in two modes of order convergence, which states under what conditions for a poset the o-convergence and o2-convergence in the poset are equivalent.
Fabrication of Nitrogen Based Magnetic Conjugated Microporous Polymer for Efficient Extraction of Neonicotinoids in Water Samples
Authors: Xia Zhenzhen , Teng Xinghua , Cheng Yuqi , Huang Yujie , Zheng Liwen , Ji Lei , Wang Leilei
Published: May 2024

Facile and sensitive methods for detecting neonicotinoids (NEOs) in aquatic environments are crucial because they are found in extremely low concentrations in complex matrices. Herein, nitrogen-based magnetic conjugated microporous polymers (Fe3O4@N-CMP) with quaternary ammonium groups were synthesized for efficient magnetic solid-phase extraction (MSPE) of NEOs from tap water, rainwater, and lake water. Fe3O4@N-CMP possessed a suitable specific surface area, extended π-conjugated system, and numerous cationic groups. These properties endow Fe3O4@N-CMP with superior extraction efficiency toward NEOs. The excellent adsorption capacity of Fe3O4@N-CMP toward NEOs was attributed to its π–π stacking, Lewis acid–base, and electrostatic interactions. The proposed MSPE-HPLC-DAD approach based on Fe3O4@N-CMP exhibited a wide linear range (0.1–200 µg/L), low detection limits (0.3–0.5 µg/L), satisfactory precision, and acceptable reproducibility under optimal conditions. In addition, the established method was effectively utilized for the analysis of NEOs in tap water, rainwater, and lake water. Excellent recoveries of NEOs at three spiked levels were in the range of 70.4 to 122.7%, with RSDs less than 10%. This study provides a reliable pretreatment method for monitoring NEOs in environmental water samples.
Sources of Carotenoids in Amazonian Fruits
Authors: dos Santos Orquidea Vasconcelos , do Rosário Rosely Carvalho , Teixeira-Costa Barbara E.
Published: May 2024

Epidemiological studies have shown that a diet rich in bioactive components significantly reduces cardiovascular disease incidence and mortality. In this sense, there is a need for meta-analytical research that confirms this phenomenon and increases specific knowledge about certain bioactive compounds such as carotenoids. Thus, this systematic review and meta-analysis aim to disseminate knowledge about the sources of carotenoids in fruit consumed in the north of Brazil which are outside the Brazilian trade balance. A systematic review and a meta-analysis following the PRISMA guidelines were conducted based on a random effects synthesis of multivariable-adjusted relative risks (RRs). Searches of seven sources were carried out, including PubMed, Science Direct from Elsevier, Web of Science, Scielo, Eric Research and Google Scholar databases. The systematic review was guided by a systematic review protocol based on the POT strategy (population, outcome and type of study) adapted for use in this research. Mendeley was a resource used to organize and manage references and exclude duplicates of studies selected for review. In this review, we present the potential bioactive compounds concentrated in little-known fruit species from the Amazon and their benefits. Consuming fruits that are rich in notable constituents such as carotenoids is important for the prevention of chronic non-communicable diseases through anti-inflammatory and anticoagulant properties, as well as antivirals, immunomodulators and antioxidants agents that directly affect the immune response.