bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CCN1/Integrin α5β1 Instigates Free Fatty Acid-Induced Hepatocyte Lipid Accumulation and Pyroptosis through NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation
Authors: Yao Qinyu , Liu Jia , Cui Qi , Jiang Tingting , Xie Xinya , Du Xiong , Zhao Ziwei , Lai Baochang , Xiao Lei , Wang Nanping
Published: September 2022

Hyperlipidemia with high blood levels of free fatty acids (FFA) is the leading cause of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. CCN1 is a secreted matricellular protein that drives various cellular functions, including proliferation, migration, and differentiation. However, its role in mediating FFA-induced pro-inflammatory cell death and its underlying molecular mechanisms have not been characterized. In this study, we demonstrated that CCN1 was upregulated in the livers of obese mice. The increase in FFA-induced CCN1 was evaluated in vitro by treating hepatocytes with a combination of oleic acid and palmitic acid (2:1). Gene silencing using specific small interfering RNAs (siRNA) revealed that CCN1 participated in FFA-induced intracellular lipid accumulation, caspase-1 activation, and hepatocyte pyroptosis. Next, we identified integrin α5β1 as a potential receptor of CCN1. Co-immunoprecipitation demonstrated that the binding between CCN1 and integrin α5β1 increased in hepatocytes upon FFA stimulation in the livers of obese mice. Similarly, the protein levels of integrin α5 and β1 were increased in vitro and in vivo. Experiments with specific siRNAs confirmed that integrin α5β1 played a part in FFA-induced intracellular lipid accumulation, NLRP3 inflammasome activation, and pyroptosis in hepatocytes. In conclusion, these results provide novel evidence that the CCN1/integrin α5β1 is a novel mediator that drives hepatic lipotoxicity via NLRP3-dependent pyroptosis.
Syphilis and Co-Infections with HIV-1, HBV, and HCV among People Who Use Crack-Cocaine in Northern Brazil
Authors: Baia Karen Lorena N. , Cordeiro Ana Caroline C. , Frade Paula Cristina R. , Gouveia Alanna Gabrielly N. , Resque Rafael Lima , Pinheiro Luiz Marcelo L. , Fonseca Ricardo Roberto S. , Machado Luiz Fernando A. , Martins Luisa C. , Kupek Emil , Fischer Benedikt , Oliveira-Filho Aldemir B.
Published: September 2022

The rates of syphilis and viral co-infections among people who use crack-cocaine (PWUCC) were assessed in this study. This cross-sectional study relied on biological and self-reported socio-behavioral data from a convenience sample of 990 PWUCC from twenty-six municipalities in the states of Amapá and Pará, northern Brazil. Blood samples were collected to assess the presence of Treponema pallidum using the Rapid Qualitative Test (RQT) and the Venereal Disease Research Laboratory (VDRL). Reactive samples by RQT were used to assess the presence of HBV, HCV, and HIV-1 using Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA) and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). Logistic regression models were used to determine the association of variables assessed with syphilis. In total, 287 (29.0%) of the PWUCC sample had reactive results for syphilis. HBV (15.7%), HCV (5.9%), and HIV-1 (9.8%) were detected among PWUCC with syphilis. Young age, low monthly income and education level, long duration of crack-cocaine use, condomless sex, multiple sex partners, and exchange of sex for money/drugs were associated with syphilis. The present study provides unique insights on the epidemiological status of syphilis among PWUCC in northern Brazil, with multiple implications for improving urgent interventions for diagnosis, prevention, and treatment.
Development of Halogenated-Chalcones Bearing with Dimethoxy Phenyl Head as Monoamine Oxidase-B Inhibitors
Authors: Rehuman Nisha Abdul , Oh Jong Min , Abdelgawad Mohamed A. , Beshr Eman A. M. , Abourehab Mohammed A. S. , Gambacorta Nicola , Nicolotti Orazio , Jat Rakesh Kumar , Kim Hoon , Mathew Bijo
Published: September 2022

Two series of dimethoxy-halogenated chalcones (DM1–DM20) were synthesized and tested for their ability to inhibit monoamine oxidase (MAOs). Compound DM2 exhibited the most significant inhibition against MAO-B with an IC50 value of 0.067 µM, followed by compound DM18 (IC50 = 0.118 µM), with selectivity index (SI) values of 93.88 and >338.98, respectively. However, none of the substances successfully inhibited MAO-A. The MAO-B inhibitors DM2 and DM18 were competitive and reversible, with Ki values of 0.032 ± 0.004 and 0.045 ± 0.001 µM, respectively. DM2 was non-toxic below 100 µg/mL in the cytotoxic test using the Vero epithelial cell line by the MTT method. According to molecular docking studies, DM2 and DM18 formed very similar conformations within the MAO-B binding pocket, with the ortho-chlorine and ortho-fluorine aromatic rings sandwiched between F168 and Y326. These conformations were predicted to show better interactions with the targeted MAO-B than MAO-A. In particular, the induced-fit docking of the dimethoxy phenyl ring of DM2 facing the hydrophobic pocket made up of FAD, Y398, and Y435 had an impact on F168 in the docking pocket. Taken together, DM2 and DM18 may be suitable candidates for treating neurodegenerative conditions such as Parkinson’s disease.
Response to Anti-PD1/L1 Antibodies in Advanced Urothelial Cancer in the ‘Real-Life’ Setting
Authors: Gadot Moran , Arad Ido , Atenafu Eshetu G. , Levartovsky Meital , Portnoy Orith , Davidson Tima , Schor-Bardach Rachel , Berger Raanan , Leibowitz Raya
Published: September 2022

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are now the standard of care for metastatic urothelial carcinoma (mUC) patients. Our aim was to describe the activity of ICIs in mUC and find the clinical parameters associated with response. This is a retrospective, single-center chart review of mUC patients receiving ICIs. The overall survival (OS) was plotted using the Kaplan–Meier method and was compared using a log-rank test. Associations between the variables and responses were analyzed by univariate and multivariable analyses, using either logistic regression or a Chi-square/Fisher’s exact test. Ninety-four patients received ICIs, 85% of which were in the second line or beyond; the median age was 71.8 years, and 82% were men. Six (6.4%), 11 (11.7%), 7 (7.4%) and 70 (74.5%) patients achieved a complete response (CR), partial response (PR), mixed response/stable disease (M/SD) or progressive disease (PD), respectively. The median overall survival was 3.2 months for the entire cohort and was significantly different according to the response pattern—not reached, 32.3, 6.4 and 2.0 months for CR, PR, M/SD and PD, respectively. The response was not significantly associated with the line of treatment. ‘Site of metastasis’ was associated with the response, and the absolute neutrophil count was borderline associated with the response. In summary, we found a substantial variance in the potential benefit from ICIs in mUC, emphasizing the need for predictive biomarkers and frequent monitoring of mUC patients receiving ICIs.
Polyhydric Stigmastane-Type Steroids Derivative from Vernonia amygdalina and Their Anti-Neuroinflammatory Activity
Authors: Liu Xiangzhong , Zhou Mi , He Shoulun , Xu Qiannan , Du Chunchun , Zhu Honghong , Lin Ting , Wang Guanghui , Tian Wenjing , Chen Haifeng
Published: September 2022

Vernonia amygdalina Del. is a traditional medicinal plant and vegetable originating from tropical Africa. The phytochemical investigation of V. amygdalina led to eight undescribed polyhydric stigmastane-type steroids, vernonin M–T (1–8). Their gross structures and stereochemistry were elucidated by HR-ESI-MS, 1D and 2D NMR spectra, X-ray diffraction, quantum chemical computation of the ECD spectrum, and the in situ dimolybdenum CD method. The anti-neuroinflammatory activity of the isolated compounds was performed in BV-2 microglia cells. As a result, compound 1 displayed a notable anti-neuroinflammatory effect via suppressing the LPS-induced IκB degradation and restricting the activation of the PI3K/AKT and p38 MAPK pathways.
Monitoring of Ex Vivo Cyclosporin a Activity in Healthy Volunteers Using T Cell Function Assays in Relation to Whole Blood and Cellular Pharmacokinetics
Authors: in ’t Veld Aliede E. , Jansen Manon A. A. , Huisman Bertine W. , Schoonakker Mascha , de Kam Marieke L. , Moes Dirk Jan A. R. , van Poelgeest Mariëtte I. E. , Burggraaf Jacobus , Moerland Matthijs
Published: September 2022

Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) of calcineurin inhibitors (i.e., tacrolimus and cyclosporin A) is standard of care after solid organ transplantation. Although the incidence of acute rejection has strongly decreased, there are still many patients who experience severe side effects or rejection after long-term treatment. In this healthy volunteer study we therefore aimed to identify biomarkers to move from a pharmacokinetic-based towards a pharmacodynamic-based monitoring approach for calcineurin inhibitor treatment. Healthy volunteers received a single dose of cyclosporine A (CsA) or placebo, after which whole blood samples were stimulated to measure ex vivo T cell functionality, including proliferation, cytokine production, and activation marker expression. The highest whole blood concentration of CsA was found at 2 h post-dose, which resulted in a strong inhibition of interferon gamma (IFNy) and interleukin-2 (IL-2) production and expression of CD154 and CD71 on T cells. Moreover, the in vitro effect of CsA was studied by incubation of pre-dose whole blood samples with a concentration range of CsA. The average in vitro and ex vivo CsA activity overlapped, making the in vitro dose–effect relationship an interesting method for prediction of post-dose drug effect. The clinical relevance of the results is to be explored in transplantation patients on calcineurin inhibitor treatment.
New Diarylamine KV10.1 Inhibitors and Their Anticancer Potential
Authors: Gubič Špela , Toplak Žan , Shi Xiaoyi , Dernovšek Jaka , Hendrickx Louise Antonia , Pinheiro-Junior Ernesto Lopes , Peigneur Steve , Tytgat Jan , Pardo Luis A. , Peterlin Mašič Lucija , Tomašič Tihomir
Published: September 2022

Expression of the voltage-gated potassium channel KV10.1 (Eag1) has been detected in over 70% of human cancers, making the channel a promising new target for new anticancer drug discovery. A new structural class of KV10.1 inhibitors was prepared by structural optimisation and exploration of the structure–activity relationship of the previously published hit compound ZVS-08 (1) and its optimised analogue 2. The potency and selectivity of the new inhibitors between KV10.1 and hERG were investigated using whole-cell patch-clamp experiments. We obtained two new optimised KV10.1 inhibitors, 17a and 18b, with improved nanomolar IC50 values of 568 nM and 214 nM, respectively. Compound 17a exhibited better ratio between IC50 values for hEAG1 and hERG than previously published diarylamine inhibitors. Compounds 17a and 18b moderately inhibited the growth of the KV10.1-expressing cell line MCF-7 in two independent assays. In addition, 17a and 18b also inhibited the growth of hERG-expressing Panc-1 cells with higher potency compared with MCF-7 cells. The main obstacle for newly developed diarylamine KV10.1 inhibitors remains the selectivity toward the hERG channel, which needs to be addressed with targeted drug design strategies in the future.
Nanocarriers as a Delivery Platform for Anticancer Treatment: Biological Limits and Perspectives in B-Cell Malignancies
Authors: Bozzer Sara , Dal Bo Michele , Grimaldi Maria Cristina , Toffoli Giuseppe , Macor Paolo
Published: September 2022

Nanoparticle-based therapies have been proposed in oncology research using various delivery methods to increase selectivity toward tumor tissues. Enhanced drug delivery through nanoparticle-based therapies could improve anti-tumor efficacy and also prevent drug resistance. However, there are still problems to overcome, such as the main biological interactions of nanocarriers. Among the various nanostructures for drug delivery, drug delivery based on polymeric nanoparticles has numerous advantages for controlling the release of biological factors, such as the ability to add a selective targeting mechanism, controlled release, protection of administered drugs, and prolonging the circulation time in the body. In addition, the functionalization of nanoparticles helps to achieve the best possible outcome. One of the most promising applications for nanoparticle-based drug delivery is in the field of onco-hematology, where there are many already approved targeted therapies, such as immunotherapies with monoclonal antibodies targeting specific tumor-associated antigens; however, several patients have experienced relapsed or refractory disease. This review describes the major nanocarriers proposed as new treatments for hematologic cancer, describing the main biological interactions of these nanocarriers and the related limitations of their use as drug delivery strategies.
Metal Complexation of Bis-Chalcone Derivatives Enhances Their Efficacy against Fusarium Wilt Disease, Caused by Fusarium equiseti, via Induction of Antioxidant Defense Machinery
Authors: El-Nagar Asmaa , Elzaawely Abdelnaser A. , Xuan Tran Dang , Gaber Mohamed , El-Wakeil Nadia , El-Sayed Yusif , Nehela Yasser
Published: September 2022

Sweet pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) is one of the most widely produced vegetable plants in the world. Fusarium wilt of pepper is one of the most dangerous soil-borne fungal diseases worldwide. Herein, we investigated the antifungal activities and the potential application of two chalcone derivatives against the phytopathogenic fungus, Fusarium equiseti, the causal agent of Fusarium wilt disease in vitro and in vivo. The tested compounds included 3-(4-dimethyl amino-phenyl)-1-{6-[3-(4 dimethyl amino-phenyl)-a cryloyl]-pyridin-2-yl}-propanone (DMAPAPP) and its metal complex with ruthenium III (Ru-DMAPAPP). Both compounds had potent fungistatic activity against F. equiseti and considerably decreased disease progression. The tested compounds enhanced the vegetative growth of pepper plants, indicating there was no phytotoxicity on pepper plants in greenhouse conditions. DMAPAPP and Ru-DMAPAPP also activated antioxidant defense mechanisms that are enzymatic, including peroxidase, polyphenole oxidase, and catalase, and non-enzymatic, such as total soluble phenolics and total soluble flavonoids. DMAPAPP and Ru-DMAPAPP also promoted the overexpression of CaCu-SOD and CaAPX genes. However, CaGR and CaMDHAR were downregulated. These results demonstrate how DMAPAPP and Ru-DMAPAPP could be employed as a long-term alternative control approach for Fusarium wilt disease as well as the physiological and biochemical mechanisms that protect plants.
Proteomic and Genomic Studies of Micronutrient Deficiency and Toxicity in Plants
Authors: Prusty Suchismita , Sahoo Ranjan Kumar , Nayak Subhendu , Poosapati Sowmya , Swain Durga Madhab
Published: September 2022

Micronutrients are essential for plants. Their growth, productivity and reproduction are directly influenced by the supply of micronutrients. Currently, there are eight trace elements considered to be essential for higher plants: Fe, Zn, Mn, Cu, Ni, B, Mo, and Cl. Possibly, other essential elements could be discovered because of recent advances in nutrient solution culture techniques and in the commercial availability of highly sensitive analytical instrumentation for elemental analysis. Much remains to be learned about the physiology of micronutrient absorption, translocation and deposition in plants, and about the functions they perform in plant growth and development. With the recent advancements in the proteomic and molecular biology tools, researchers have attempted to explore and address some of these questions. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of micronutrients in plants and the proteomic/genomic approaches used to study plant nutrient deficiency and toxicity.
The Evaluation of Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Genotypes under Water Stress Based on Physiological and Agronomic Parameters
Authors: Papathanasiou Fokion , Ninou Elissavet , Mylonas Ioannis , Baxevanos Dimitrios , Papadopoulou Foteini , Avdikos Ilias , Sistanis Iosif , Koskosidis Avraam , Vlachostergios Dimitrios N. , Stefanou Stefanos , Tigka Evangelia , Kargiotidou Anastasia
Published: September 2022

Drought affects common bean productivity, and the severity of its impact is expected to increase due to climate change. The use of versatile genotypes could contribute to securing future bean production. This study investigates the adaptability of 10 common bean genotypes of indeterminate growth type under water scarcity conditions by measuring agronomic and physiological parameters. The evaluation occurs under irrigation treatments applied at two different phenological stages (anthesis (WDA) and seed filling initiation (WDSF)). The recorded adaptabilities of the genotypes (G) showed that G10 produced the highest overall seed yield in the normal irrigation (NI) (197.22 g plant−1) and WDA (192.78 g plant−1), while the G6 had the highest yield at WDSF (196.71 g plant−1). For the genotype’s average mean, chlorophyll content decreased by 10.5% under drought at WDSF. Net photosynthetic rate (Pn), stomatal conductance (gs), and transpiration rate (E) were reduced at WDA by 53%, 80.8%, and 61.4% and at WDSF by 43.75%, 57.7%, and 36%, respectively, while relative water content (RWC) reduced by 16.48%, on average, for both stages. G10 and G6 showed adaptability when water scarcity occurred at an early (WDA) or later stage (WDSF), respectively, providing insights into using germplasm resources to cope with the drought effect.
Melt-Crystallizations of α and γ Forms of Isotactic Polypropylene in Propene-Butene Copolymers
Authors: Scoti Miriam , De Stefano Fabio , Piscitelli Filomena , Talarico Giovanni , Giordano Angelo , De Rosa Claudio
Published: September 2022

Random isotactic propene-butene copolymers (iPPC4) of different stereoregularity have been synthesized with three different homogeneous single center metallocene catalysts having different stereoselectivity. All samples crystallize from the polymerization solution in mixtures of α and γ forms, and the relative amount of γ form increases with increasing concentrations of butene and of rr stereodefects. All samples crystallize from the melt in mixtures of α and γ forms and the fraction of γ form increases with decreasing cooling rate. At high cooling rates, the crystallization of the α form is always favored, even for samples that contain high total concentration of defects that should crystallize in the γ form. The results demonstrate that in iPPs containing significant concentrations of defects, such as stereodefects and comonomeric units, the γ form is the thermodynamically stable form of iPP and crystallizes in selective conditions of very slow crystallization, whereas the α form is the kinetically favored form and crystallizes in conditions of fast crystallization.
Impact of Graphene Oxide on Properties and Structure of Thin-Film Composite Forward Osmosis Membranes
Authors: Dai Chenglong , Zhao Dan , Wang Yongqiang , Zhao Rui , Wang Han , Wu Xiangci , Liu Shejiang , Zhu Huizhen , Fu Jianfeng , Zhang Mengling , Ding Hui
Published: September 2022

Forward osmosis (FO) membranes have the advantages of low energy consumption, high water recovery rate, and low membrane pollution trend, and they have been widely studied in many fields. However, the internal concentration polarization (ICP) caused by the accumulation of solutes in the porous support layer will reduce permeation efficiency, which is currently unavoidable. In this paper, we doped Graphene oxide (GO) nanoparticles (50~150 nm) to a polyamide (PA) active layer and/or polysulfone (PSF) support layer, investigating the influence of GO on the morphology and properties of thin-film composite forward osmosis (TFC-FO) membranes. The results show that under the optimal doping amount, doping GO to the PA active layer and PSF support layer, respectively, is conducive to the formation of dense and uniform nano-scale water channels perpendicular to the membrane surface possessing a high salt rejection rate and low reverse solute flux without sacrificing high water flux. Moreover, the water channels formed by doping GO to the active layer possess preferable properties, which significantly improves the salt rejection and water permeability of the membrane, with a salt rejection rate higher than 99% and a water flux of 54.85 L·m−2·h−1 while the pure PSF-PA membrane water flux is 12.94 L·m−2·h−1. GO-doping modification is promising for improving the performance and structure of TFC-FO membranes.
Flows of Dense Suspensions of Polymer Particles through Oblique Bifurcating Channels: Two Continua Approach
Authors: Shelukhin Vladimir , Antonov Andrey
Published: September 2022

A two-velocity mathematical model is proposed for dense suspension flows through channel bifurcations. Equations agree with thermodynamic laws and they are suitable for both heavy and light particles. The pulsatile mode of injection of particles is considered. In the 2D-case, we address the issue of partitioning particles and study how a loss of particles into the side branch depends on the bifurcation angle. A qualitative agreement with experiment data are established. We capture the Zweifach–Fung effect. We treat polymer particles as a phase enjoying the rheology of the Bingham viscoplastic material. We prove that the polymer particle distribution between two branches correlates with the averaged-in-time Bingham number in these branches.
Polyhydroxybutyrate Rice Hull and Torrefied Rice Hull Biocomposites
Authors: McCaffrey Zach , Cal Andrew , Torres Lennard , Chiou Bor-Sen , Wood Delilah , Williams Tina , Orts William
Published: September 2022

Raw and torrefied rice hulls (RRH and TRH) were incorporated into polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) as fillers using extrusion and injection molding to produce biomass-polymer composites. Filler and composite materials were characterized by particle size analysis, thermomechanical analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, FTIR analysis, CHNSO analysis, and mechanical testing. Heat distortion temperature of the RRH composites were 16–22 °C higher than TRH composites. The RRH composite samples showed a 50–60% increase in flexural modulus and 5% increase in stress at yield compared to PHB, while TRH composite samples showed nearly equal flexural modulus and a 24% decrease in stress at yield. The improved mechanical properties of the RRH composites in comparison to TRH composites were due to better particle-matrix adhesion. FTIR analysis showed RRH particles contained more surface functional groups containing oxygen than TRH particles, indicating that RRHs should be more compatible with the polar PHB plastic. SEM images showed space between filler and plastic in TRH composites and better wetted filler particles in the RRH composites.
Microstructured Magnetoactive Elastomers for Switchable Wettability
Authors: Kriegl Raphael , Kravanja Gaia , Hribar Luka , Čoga Lucija , Drevenšek-Olenik Irena , Jezeršek Matija , Kalin Mitjan , Shamonin Mikhail
Published: September 2022

We demonstrate the control of wettability of non-structured and microstructured magnetoactive elastomers (MAEs) by magnetic field. The synthesized composite materials have a concentration of carbonyl iron particles of 75 wt.% (≈27 vol.%) and three different stiffnesses of the elastomer matrix. A new method of fabrication of MAE coatings on plastic substrates is presented, which allows one to enhance the response of the apparent contact angle to the magnetic field by exposing the particle-enriched side of MAEs to water. A magnetic field is not applied during crosslinking. The highest variation of the contact angle from (113 ± 1)° in zero field up to (156 ± 2)° at about 400 mT is achieved in the MAE sample with the softest matrix. Several lamellar and pillared MAE structures are fabricated by laser micromachining. The lateral dimension of surface structures is about 50 µm and the depth varies between 3 µm and 60 µm. A systematic investigation of the effects of parameters of laser processing (laser power and the number of passages of the laser beam) on the wetting behavior of these structures in the absence and presence of a magnetic field is performed. In particular, strong anisotropy of the wetting behavior of lamellar structures is observed. The results are qualitatively discussed in the framework of the Wenzel and Cassie–Baxter models. Finally, directions of further research on magnetically controlled wettability of microstructured MAE surfaces are outlined. The obtained results may be useful for the development of magnetically controlled smart surfaces for droplet-based microfluidics.
N-Doped Biochar from Lignocellulosic Biomass for Preparation of Adsorbent: Characterization, Kinetics and Application
Authors: Li Jing , Lv Fanxun , Yang Ran , Zhang Liping , Tao Wei , Liu Guotao , Gao Hui , Guan Ying
Published: September 2022

Medulla tetrapanacis is composed of a lignocellulosic biopolymer and has a regular porous structure, which makes it a potential biomass material for preparing porous N-doped biochar. Herewith, N-doped Medulla tetrapanacis biochar (UBC) was successfully prepared by modification with urea and NaHCO3 under pyrolysis at 700 °C. The nitrogen-containing groups were efficiently introduced into biochar, and the micro-pore structures of the UBC were developed with sizeable specific surface area, which was loaded with massive adsorption sites. The adsorption kinetics and isotherms of the UBC conformed to pseudo-second-order and Langmuir model. The superior adsorption capacities of the UBC for methylene blue (MB) and congo red (CR) were 923.0 mg/g and 728.0 mg/g, and the capacities for Cu2+ and Pb2+ were 468.5 mg/g and 1466.5 mg/g, respectively. Moreover, the UBC had a stronger affinity for Cr3+ and Fe3+ in multiple metal ions and retained at a preferable adsorption performance for dyes and heavy metals after five cycles. Precipitation, complexation, and physical adsorption were the main mechanisms of the UBC-adsorbing metal ions and dyes. Thus, lignocellulosic biochar has great potential for removing dyes and heavy metals in aqueous solutions.
Split-Hopkinson Pressure Bar Test of Silicone Rubber: Considering Effects of Strain Rate and Temperature
Authors: Zhu Xintao , Zhang Xiaojing , Yao Wenjin , Li Wenbin
Published: September 2022

Using a split-Hopkinson pressure bar test instrument with a temperature control device, in this work, silicone rubber was tested at different temperatures (−40 °C–200 °C) and different strain rates (1.2 × 103 s−1–7.2 × 103 s−1). The results showed that the dynamic mechanical properties of silicone rubber were strain-rate sensitive at different temperatures and the yield strength of the silicone rubber increased with an increase in the strain rate. At a higher strain rate, silicone rubber showed temperature sensitivity. With a decrease in the strain rate, the influence of temperature on silicone rubber gradually decreased. Differential scanning calorimetry analysis showed that silicone rubber had good thermal stability at high temperatures. When the temperature was as low as −40 °C, the silicone rubber underwent a glass transition, showing the characteristics of brittle materials.
Effect of Fuel Preheating on Engine Characteristics of Waste Animal Fat-Oil Biodiesel in Compression Ignition Engine
Authors: Srinivasan Gokul Raghavendra , Jambulingam Ranjitha , Gacem Amel , Ahmad Akil , Bhutto Javed Khan , Yadav Krishna Kumar , Mezni Amine , Alharbi Omar Khulaif R. , Islam Saiful , Ahn Yongtae , Jeon Byong-Hun
Published: September 2022

The present study aims at understanding the effects of fuel preheating on engine characteristics of waste animal fat-oil (WAF-O) biodiesel in a single-cylinder CI engine, with the preheating technique proposed as an effective means for enhancing the fuel properties. To understand the effects of the preheated fuel, the WAF-O biodiesel was preheated at 60, 80, 100 and 120 °C and tested along with neat diesel and unheated WAF-O biodiesel. For this purpose, biodiesel was produced from different animal wastes by means of KOH-assisted ethanol-based transesterification, reporting its maximum yield as 96.37 ± 1.8%, with significant distribution of unsaturated oleic acid, saturated palmitic acid and stearic acid. Upon evaluating its fuel characteristics as per ASTM D6751 standards, a rise in preheating temperature by 1 °C reduced the density and kinematic viscosity of WAF-O biodiesel by 0.383 kg/m3 and 0.025 mm2/s, respectively, and was explained by the weakening of intermolecular forces between its fatty acid ester molecules. Preheated samples reported superior combustion characteristics by exhibiting increased in-cylinder pressure (2.24%, on average) and heat release rates in addition to their shortened ignition delay (1–4 °CA). Furthermore, preheating of WAF-O biodiesel reduced its specific fuel consumption and increased its brake thermal efficiency by 7.86% (on average) and 9.23% (on average), respectively. However, higher preheating temperatures (>120 °C) resulted in increased fuel consumption owing to its varied flow characteristics. In addition to the changes in combustion characteristics, preheating WAF-O bio-diesel also resulted in reduced carbon monoxide, nitrous oxide and hydrocarbon emission by 13.88%, 7.21% and 26.94%, respectively, and increased carbon dioxide emission by 7.58%. Summing up, the enhancements in overall engine characteristics of preheated samples were accounted for by their improvised fuel injection characteristics due to their reduced density and viscosity, which ensured for their effective combustion.
The Effects of Carbon–Silica Dual-Phase Filler on the Crosslink Structure of Natural Rubber
Authors: Wang Jingyi , Jia Hongbing
Published: September 2022

Carbon–silica dual-phase filler (CSDPF)/natural rubber (NR) vulcanizate was prepared by mechanical blending, followed by a hot-press vulcanization. The dispersion of CSDPF in the NR matrix and the effects of CSDPF on the filler–rubber interaction and structure of the rubber network were studied. Scanning electron microscope results showed that CSDPF dispersed uniformly; however, there were some aggregates of CSDPF when loading too many fillers. With an increase in CSDPF, the interaction between CSDPF and NR chains increases, which was detected by bound rubber in the CSDPF/NR compound. The spectra of solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance revealed that CSDPF could promote the formation of poly-sulfidic crosslink in the rubber vulcanization network. Further, the molecular chain movement ability of vulcanizates decreases according to the spin–spin relaxation of 1H nuclei in CSDPF/NR compounds. The crosslink density of vulcanizate increases, while the chemical crosslink and physical crosslink in the vulcanization network also increase according to the tube model.
New Self-Repairing System for Brittle Matrix Composites Using Corrosion-Induced Intelligent Fiber
Authors: Sun Yuyan , Wang Dongkai , Jin Zuquan , Sun Jianwei , Wang Ziguo
Published: September 2022

Brittle matrix composites such as concrete are susceptible to damage in the form of cracks. Most of the current self-repair and self-healing techniques have repair limits on crack widths or high costs of an external stimulator, or have an unfavorable effect on the composite’s strength. This paper proposes a new concept of corrosion-induced intelligent fiber (CIF) and a new self-repairing system that uses the CIFs to close cracks in brittle matrix composites within a corrosive environment without external help, and without compromising the strength. The CIF comprises an inner core fiber and an outer corrodible coating that are in equilibrium, with the core fiber in tension and the corrodible coating in compression. The preparation steps and shape recovery mechanism of the CIF and the self-repair mechanism of the CIF composites are explained. Based on these concepts, this paper also describes several mechanical models built to predict the magnitude of pre-stress stored in the core fiber, and the maximum pre-stress released to the matrix composites, and the minimum length of the reliable anchor ends of CIF. The sample calculation results show that the recovery strain was 0.5% for the CIF with the steel core fiber and 12.7% for the CIF with the nylon core fiber; the maximum crack closing force provided by the CIF to concrete can be increased by increasing the amount of the CIFs in concrete and the initial tensile stress of the core fiber. This paper provides some suggestions for enhancing the self-repair capability of brittle composites in complex working environments.
A Case for a Polyphonic Anthropology: Giving Voice to Experiences of Women of Color
Authors: Aihiokhai SimonMary Asese
Published: September 2022

Discourses in theological anthropology ought to begin by centering the human condition in all its multiple expressions. Experiences of marginalized women of color do not always make it to the forefront of such discourses. What does it mean to be a woman of color in God’s imagination? How can we speak of the human person as a rainbow reality of diverse narratives and experiences? This work attempts to address these questions by appropriating a critical hermeneutic that allows for a polyphonic discourse on what it means to be human. In doing this, this work articulates arguments for a polyphonic anthropology. It critiques the traditional understanding of human as imago Dei. It opens up a new horizon for conceiving of the human person through the multiple experiences of humans, especially women of color, who, traditionally, have not always been acknowledged to be truly human in a world defined by narratives of erasure.
Map-Assisted 3D Indoor Localization Using Crowd-Sensing-Based Trajectory Data and Error Ellipse-Enhanced Fusion
Authors: Wan Qiao , Yu Yue , Chen Ruizhi , Chen Liang
Published: September 2022

Crowd-sensing-based localization is regarded as an effective method for providing indoor location-based services in large-scale urban areas. The performance of the crowd-sensing approach is subject to the poor accuracy of collected daily-life trajectories and the efficient combination of different location sources and indoor maps. This paper proposes a robust map-assisted 3D Indoor localization framework using crowd-sensing-based trajectory data and error ellipse-enhanced fusion (ML-CTEF). In the off-line phase, novel inertial odometry which contains the combination of 1D-convolutional neural networks (1D-CNN) and Bi-directional Long Short-Term Memory (Bi-LSTM)-based walking speed estimator is proposed for accurate crowd-sensing trajectories data pre-processing under different handheld modes. The Bi-LSTM network is further applied for floor identification, and the indoor network matching algorithm is adopted for the generation of fingerprinting database without pain. In the online phase, an error ellipse-assisted particle filter is proposed for the intelligent integration of inertial odometry, crowdsourced Wi-Fi fingerprinting, and indoor map information. The experimental results prove that the proposed ML-CTEF realizes autonomous and precise 3D indoor localization performance under complex and large-scale indoor environments; the estimated average positioning error is within 1.01 m in a multi-floor contained indoor building.
A Comprehensive Study on Factors Affecting the Calibration of Potential Evapotranspiration Derived from the Thornthwaite Model
Authors: Li Haobo , Jiang Chenhui , Choy Suelynn , Wang Xiaoming , Zhang Kefei , Zhu Dejun
Published: September 2022

Potential evapotranspiration (PET) is generally estimated using empirical models; thus, how to improve PET estimation accuracy has received widespread attention in recent years. Among all the models, although the temperature-driven Thornthwaite (TH) model is easy to operate, its estimation accuracy is rather limited. Although previous researchers proved that the accuracy of TH-PET can be greatly improved by using a limited number of variables to conduct calibration exercises, only preliminary experiments were conducted. In this study, to refine this innovation practice, we comprehensively investigated the factors that affect the calibration performances, including the selection of variables, seasonal effects, and spatial distribution of Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS)/weather stations. By analyzing the factors and their effects, the following conclusions have been drawn: (1) an optimal variable selection scheme containing zenith total delay, temperature, pressure, and mean Julian Date was proposed; (2) the most salient improvements are in the winter and summer seasons, with improvement rates over 80%; (3) with the changes in horizontal (2.771–44.723 km) and height (1.239–344.665 m) differences among ten pairs of GNSS/weather stations, there are no obvious differences in the performances. These findings can offer an in-depth understanding of this practice and provide technical references to future applications.
Evaluation and Calibration of Remotely Sensed High Winds from the HY-2B/C/D Scatterometer in Tropical Cyclones
Authors: Li Xiaohui , Yang Jingsong , Wang Jiuke , Han Guoqi
Published: September 2022

Haiyang-2 scatterometers (HY-2A/B/C/D) have limitations in high wind speed retrieval due to the complexity of the remote sensing mechanism and the influence of rainfall on the radar cross section under the conditions of tropical cyclones. In this study, we focus on the evaluation of Chinese scatterometer operational wind products from HY-2B/C/D over the period from July 2019 to December 2021. HY-2B/C/D scatterometer wind products are collocated with SMAP (Soil Moisture Active Passive) L-band radiometer remotely sensed measurements. The results show that the underestimation of high wind speed occurs in the HY-2B/C/D wind speed products. The machine learning algorithms are explored to improve this underestimation issue, including the back propagation neural network (BP-NN), K-nearest neighbor (KNN), support vector machine (SVM), decision tree (DT), random forest (RF), and Bayesian ridge (BR) regression algorithms. Comparisons show that the BP-NN algorithm shows the best performance with a small RMSE (root-mean-square error) of 3.40 m/s, and high correlation coefficient of 0.88, demonstrating an improvement of 20.4% in RMSE (root-mean-square error) compared with the HY-2B/C/D wind speed products. In addition, the revised high winds are in good agreement with the ground truth measurements from the SFMR (Stepped Frequency Microwave Radiometer), which are useful for tropical cyclone disaster prevention and mitigation and are of vital importance in the numerical simulation of storm surges.
“How Do I See Myself? It’s Complicated”: Qualitatively Eliciting, Analyzing and Understanding Individuals’ Self-Attitudes towards Identity in an Australian Jewish Community
Authors: Creese Jennifer
Published: September 2022

It can be difficult to define what “identity” means and encapsulates in groups and communities. This is particularly true in ethnic communities, where identity can overflow neat categories like religion, culture and nationality. Yet understanding what makes and shapes identity in a community can provide insight into its activities, tensions and motivations, aiding community research. In this paper, I document a methodology of the elicitation of self-understanding, from members of a community group, of their own identities within the group context, using a case study of members of an Australian Jewish community. The themes that arise from analyzing the elicited responses, and the participants’ discussions of them, highlight key ways that contemporary identity might be understood within this particular community. The exercise uncovered trends and tensions within the negotiation of identity as part of a minority community, which could inform and enrich broader study with this group.
Impact of Block Spatial Optimization and Vegetation Configuration on the Reduction of PM2.5 Concentrations: A Roadmap towards Green Transformation and Sustainable Development
Authors: Wang Feng , Sun Bo , Zheng Xin , Ji Xiang
Published: September 2022

The article aims to reduce PM2.5 concentration by improving the spatial comfort of blocks and the vegetation configuration. It mainly analyzes the impact of the following five aspects on the PM2.5 concentration distribution in blocks, including different angles between the prevailing wind direction and blocks, different vegetation types, the distance between vegetation and buildings, vegetation height and building height, and different street tree configuration types on both sides of the block. The results show that: when the street angle is 45 degrees, the PM2.5 concentration in the air is the lowest. The PM2.5 concentration in the air is significantly improved when the enclosed vegetation type (F1–F2) is planted, and the spacing between vegetation and buildings has no obvious effect on PM2.5 concentration distribution. There is a negative correlation between the height of vegetation on both sides and the PM2.5 concentration. At the height of 6 m, the PM2.5 concentrations on the windward and leeward sides are relatively balanced. When the street trees are evenly distributed, they have the least effect on reducing PM2.5 concentrations. However, the richer the distribution levels of street trees, the more obvious the effect on reducing PM2.5 concentrations.
Dynamic Influence of Urbanization on Inclusive Green Growth in Belt and Road Countries: The Moderating Role of Governance
Authors: Wang Na , Ullah Atta , Lin Xiaofeng , Zhang Taiming , Mao Jie
Published: September 2022

The strategic objective of this study was to determine the influence of urbanization on inclusive green growth (IGG) with the moderating impact of governance while considering household consumption, exchange rate, per capita income, and the unemployment rate as control variables. The data set consisted of the years 2004–2019 for 64 countries along the Belt and Road (BRI) region. The outcomes of the two-step system of generalized method of moments (GMM) robust with D-K regression methodology confirmed the significantly positive dynamic nature of inclusive green growth. Urbanization showed a significant but negative influence on inclusive green growth, indicating environmental degradation due to unplanned urban growth. The moderating role of governance also depicted a significant negative impact, emphasizing the need for a transparent governance framework for BRI countries to utilize resources effectively. Moreover, the interaction term of urbanization and governance showed a significantly positive improvement toward inclusive green growth. Besides this, per capita income played a significantly positive role, while unemployment and household consumption had a negative but significant influence on inclusive green growth. Further, the exchange rate impacted insignificantly on inclusive green growth. Hence, it is evident that urbanization, good governance, and employment opportunities are required to promote sustainable green growth in BRI countries. The research identifies the factors that are required for sustainability/IGG.
Longitudinal Driving Behavior before, during, and after a Left-Turn Movement at Signalized Intersections: A Naturalistic Driving Study in China
Authors: Xia Lihong , Li Penghui , Su Zhizhuo , Chen Tao , Deng Zhaoxiang , Sun Dihua
Published: September 2022

A human-like driving model can help to improve the acceptance and safety of automated driving systems (ADS). To improve the performance of human-like driving and interaction with conventional vehicles of ADS, the speed behavior of left-turn vehicles at the signalized intersection was studied using natural driving data. In this study, 374 valid data points of left-turn snippets at signalized intersections were extracted and three phases were introduced based on the reaction behavior of braking, stopping, and accelerating in the left-turn process. Firstly, a one-way ANOVA was used to study the influence of traffic density, traffic light state, intersection type, and left-turn waiting area on the reaction position of each phase and the spatial distribution of the speed. The traffic light state and traffic density were the main significant effects. Furthermore, to analyze the spatial distribution of acceleration, a method of frequency contour was conducted. The butterfly-shaped frequency contour suggested that “the closer to the stop line, the higher the variation of acceleration”. Finally, the driving parameters at each phase were further analyzed. The main results indicate the following: (1) The red traffic light will lead to a larger variation of acceleration, a larger maximum deceleration, a larger starting acceleration, and a larger maximum acceleration. (2) On the condition of dense traffic density, more stops and the duration of the stop–go phase may cause the time pressure, and the driver tends to choose a greater maximum acceleration. (3) The red traffic light leads to a further reaction distance of all three phases, whilst increased traffic density only increases the reaction distance of the stop. (4) Both the dense traffic density and red traffic light lead to an earlier reaction time. The findings can provide a basis for the design of human-like driving of left-turn driving assistance systems and improve the interaction with left-turn conventional vehicles.
Cloud-Based Fault Prediction for Real-Time Monitoring of Sensor Data in Hospital Environment Using Machine Learning
Authors: Uppal Mudita , Gupta Deepali , Juneja Sapna , Sulaiman Adel , Rajab Khairan , Rajab Adel , Elmagzoub M. A. , Shaikh Asadullah
Published: September 2022

The amount of data captured is expanding day by day which leads to the need for a monitoring system that helps in decision making. Current technologies such as cloud, machine learning (ML) and Internet of Things (IoT) provide a better solution for monitoring automation systems efficiently. In this paper, a prediction model that monitors real-time data of sensor nodes in a clinical environment using a machine learning algorithm is proposed. An IoT-based smart hospital environment has been developed that controls and monitors appliances over the Internet using different sensors such as current sensors, a temperature and humidity sensor, air quality sensor, ultrasonic sensor and flame sensor. The IoT-generated sensor data have three important characteristics, namely, real-time, structured and enormous amount. The main purpose of this research is to predict early faults in an IoT environment in order to ensure the integrity, accuracy, reliability and fidelity of IoT-enabled devices. The proposed fault prediction model was evaluated via decision tree, K-nearest neighbor, Gaussian naive Bayes and random forest techniques, but random forest showed the best accuracy over others on the provided dataset. The results proved that the ML techniques applied over IoT-based sensors are well efficient to monitor this hospital automation process, and random forest was considered the best with the highest accuracy of 94.25%. The proposed model could be helpful for the user to make a decision regarding the recommended solution and control unanticipated losses generated due to faults during the automation process.