bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dried Blood Spots in Neonatal Studies: A Computational Analysis for the Role of the Hematocrit Effect
Authors: Daousani Chrysa , Karalis Vangelis , Loukas Yannis L. , Schulpis Kleopatra H. , Alexiou Konstantinos , Dotsikas Yannis
Published: August 2023

Dried blood spot (DBS) microsampling is extensively employed in newborn screening (NBS) and neonatal studies. However, the impact of variable neonatal hematocrit (Ht) values on the results can be a source of analytical error, and the use of fixed Ht for calibration (Htcal) is not representative of all neonatal subpopulations. A computational approach based on neonatal demographics was developed and implemented in R® language to propose a strategy using correction factors to address the Ht effect in neonatal DBS partial-spot assays. A rational “tolerance level” was proposed for the Ht effect contribution to the total analytical error and a safe Ht range for neonatal samples, where the correction of concentrations can be omitted. Furthermore, an “alert zone” for a false positive or negative result in NBS was proposed, where the Ht effect has to be considered. Results point toward the use of Htcal values closely representative of populations under analysis and an acceptable level of percentage relative error can be attributed to the Ht effect, diminishing the probability of correction. Overall, the impact of the Ht effect on neonatal studies is important and future work may further investigate this parameter, correlated to other clinical variables potentially affecting results.
Phytochemical Investigation of Lepionurus sylvestris Blume and Their Anti-Diabetes Effects via Anti-Alpha Glucosidase and Insulin Secretagogue Activities Plus Molecular Docking
Authors: Phoopha Sathianpong , Sangkaew Surat , Wattanapiromsakul Chatchai , Nuankaew Wanlapa , Kang Tong Ho , Dej-adisai Sukanya
Published: August 2023

This study presents a phytochemical investigation of Lepionurus sylvestris leaf extracts and their anti-diabetic activities. Traditionally, L. sylvestris leaves were used as vegetables and food in local recipes, but the root extracts of the plant can also be used in body tonic and erectile dysfunction treatments. Following a preliminary anti-diabetic activity screening test, the 80% ethanolic leaf extract exhibited potent anti-alpha glucosidase activity. So, the leaves’ active components were selected for further investigation. Firstly, the plant was extracted via maceration using lower to higher polarity solvents such as hexane, ethyl acetate, ethanol, and water, respectively, to obtain the four crude extracts. Then, the phytochemicals contained in this plant were investigated via classical column chromatography and spectroscopy techniques. Anti-diabetic activity was evaluated via anti-alpha glucosidase and insulin secretagogue assays. The results showed that five compounds were isolated from the fractionated ethanolic leaf extract: interruptin A; interruptin C; ergosterol; diglycerol; and 15-16-epoxy-neo-cleoda-3,7(20),13(16),14-tetraene-12,17:18,19-diolide, a new diterpene derivative which is herein referred to as lepionurodiolide. Interruptin A and the new diterpene derivative exhibited the greatest effect on anti-alpha glucosidase activity, showing IC50 values of 293.05 and 203.71 μg/mL, respectively. Then, molecular docking was used to study the sites of action of these compounds. The results showed that interruptin A and the new compound interacted through H-bonds with the GLN279 residue, with a binding energy of −9.8 kcal/mol, whereas interruptin A and C interacted with HIS280 and ARG315 a with binding energy of −10.2 kcal/mol. Moreover, the extracts were investigated for their toxicity toward human cancer cells, and a zebrafish embryonic toxicity model was used to determine herbal drug safety. The results indicated that ethyl acetate and hexane extracts showed cytotoxicity to both Hela cells and human breast adenocarcinomas (MCF-7), which was related to the results derived from using the zebrafish embryonic toxicity model. The hexane and ethyl acetate presented LC50 values of 33.25 and 36.55 μg/mL, respectively, whereas the ethanol and water extracts did not show embryonic toxicity. This study is the first of its kind to report on the chemical constituents and anti-diabetic activity of L. sylvestris, the leaf extract of which has been traditionally used in southern Thailand as a herbal medicine and food ingredient.
Analysis of Safety Concerns on Herbal Products with Assumed Phytoestrogenic Activity
Authors: Tjeerdsma A. Marije , van Hunsel Florence P. A. M. , van de Koppel Sonja , Ekhart Corine , Vitalone Annabella , Woerdenbag Herman J.
Published: August 2023

Phytoestrogens (PEs) are plant-based compounds that can interact with estrogen receptors and are mainly used to treat menopausal complaints. However, the safety of products with assumed phytoestrogenic activity is not fully understood. This study aimed to identify plant species with assumed phytoestrogenic activity, review existing literature on their use and safety, and critically evaluate adverse reaction (AR) reports of single-herb, multi-herb, and mixed-multiple products, as submitted to the Netherlands Pharmacovigilance Centre Lareb and to VigiBase of the World Health Organization (WHO). In the Lareb database, the most commonly reported plant species to cause ARs (total of 67 reports) were Actaea racemosa L. (black cohosh) (47.8%), Humulus lupulus L. (hops) (32.8%), and Glycine max (L.) Merr. (soybean) (22.4%). In the VigiBase database (total of 21,944 reports), the top three consisted of Glycine max (L.) Merr. (71.4%), Actaea racemosa L. (11.6%), and Vitex agnus-castus L. (chaste tree) (6.4%). In the scoping review (total of 73 articles), Actaea racemosa L. (30.1%), Glycine max (L.) Merr. (28.8%), and Trifolium pratense L. (13.7%) were the most frequently mentioned plant species. ARs were most frequently reported in the system organ classes “gastrointestinal disorders”, “skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders”, “reproductive system and breast disorders”, and “general disorders and administration site conditions”. Furthermore, from the scoping review, it appeared that the use of products with assumed phytoestrogenic activity was associated with postmenopausal bleeding. It was concluded that, while the potential benefits of products with assumed phytoestrogenic activity have been extensively pursued, the potential occurrence of ARs after using these products is less well understood. This study highlights the need for further investigation and careful monitoring of these products to better understand their effects and ensure the safety and well-being of individuals using them.
Biopolymers and Their Application in Bioprinting Processes for Dental Tissue Engineering
Authors: Kim Suhon , Hwangbo Hanjun , Chae SooJung , Lee Hyeongjin
Published: August 2023

Dental tissues are composed of multiple tissues with complex organization, such as dentin, gingiva, periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone. These tissues have different mechanical and biological properties that are essential for their functions. Therefore, dental diseases and injuries pose significant challenges for restorative dentistry, as they require innovative strategies to regenerate damaged or missing dental tissues. Biomimetic bioconstructs that can effectively integrate with native tissues and restore their functionalities are desirable for dental tissue regeneration. However, fabricating such bioconstructs is challenging due to the diversity and complexity of dental tissues. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the recent developments in polymer-based tissue engineering and three-dimensional (3D) printing technologies for dental tissue regeneration. It also discusses the current state-of-the-art, focusing on key techniques, such as polymeric biomaterials and 3D printing with or without cells, used in tissue engineering for dental tissues. Moreover, the final section of this paper identifies the challenges and future directions of this promising research field.
Real-World Evidence of Factors Affecting Cannabidiol Exposure in Children with Drug-Resistant Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathies
Authors: Brstilo Lucas , Reyes Valenzuela Gabriela , Caraballo Roberto , Pérez Montilla Carlos , García Bournissen Facundo , Cáceres Guido Paulo , Schaiquevich Paula
Published: August 2023

The identification of factors that affect cannabidiol (CBD) systemic exposure may aid in optimizing treatment efficacy and safety in clinical practice. In this study, we aimed to correlate CBD plasma concentrations at a steady state to demographic, clinical, and pharmacological characteristics as well as seizure frequency after the administration of a purified CBD oil solution in a real-world setting of children with drug-resistant developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEEs). Patients receiving oral CBD pharmaceutical products at maintenance were enrolled. Venous blood samples were drawn before the CBD morning dose, 12 h apart from the last evening dose (C0 or CBD trough concentration). A linear mixed-effect analysis was implemented to assess the correlation between C0 and clinical, laboratory, pharmacological, and lifestyle factors. Fifteen females and seven males with a median age of 12.8 years (ranging between 4.7 and 17.2) were included. The median CBD dose was 8.8 mg/kg/day (ranging between 2.6 and 22.5), and the CBD C0 median (range) was 48.2 ng/mL (3.5–366.3). The multivariate model showed a 109.6% increase in CBD C0 in patients with concomitant levothyroxine (β = 0.74 ± 0.1649, p < 0.001), 56.8% with food (β = 0.45 ± 0.1550, p < 0.01), and 116.0% after intake of a ketogenic diet (β = 0.77 ± 0.3141, p < 0.05). All patients included were responders without evidence of an association between C0 and response status. In children with DEEs, systemic concentrations of CBD may be significantly increased when co-administered with levothyroxine, food, or a ketogenic diet.
Construction of High-Density Genetic Map and QTL Mapping for Grain Shape in the Rice RIL Population
Authors: Wei Minyi , Luo Tongping , Huang Dahui , Ma Zengfeng , Liu Chi , Qin Yuanyuan , Wu Zishuai , Zhou Xiaolong , Lu Yingping , Yan Liuhui , Qin Gang , Zhang Yuexiong
Published: August 2023

Grain shape is an important agronomic trait directly associated with yield in rice. In order to explore new genes related to rice grain shape, a high-density genetic map containing 2193 Bin markers (526957 SNP) was constructed by whole-genome resequencing of 208 recombinant inbred (RILs) derived from a cross between ZP37 and R8605, with a total genetic distance of 1542.27 cM. The average genetic distance between markers was 0.76 cM, and the physical distance was 201.29 kb. Quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping was performed for six agronomic traits related to rice grain length, grain width, length-to-width ratio, thousand-grain weight, grain cross-sectional area, and grain perimeter under three different environments. A total of 39 QTLs were identified, with mapping intervals ranging from 8.1 kb to 1781.6 kb and an average physical distance of 517.5 kb. Among them, 15 QTLs were repeatedly detected in multiple environments. Analysis of the genetic effects of the identified QTLs revealed 14 stable genetic loci, including three loci that overlapped with previously reported gene positions, and the remaining 11 loci were newly identified loci associated with two or more environments or traits. Locus 1, Locus 3, Locus 10, and Locus 14 were novel loci exhibiting pleiotropic effects on at least three traits and were detected in multiple environments. Locus 14, with a contribution rate greater than 10%, influenced grain width, length-to-width ratio, and grain cross-sectional area. Furthermore, pyramiding effects analysis of three stable genetic loci showed that increasing the number of QTL could effectively improve the phenotypic value of grain shape. Collectively, our findings provided a theoretical basis and genetic resources for the cloning, functional analysis, and molecular breeding of genes related to rice grain shape.
Human Serum Albumin Based Nanodrug Delivery Systems: Recent Advances and Future Perspective
Authors: Li Changyong , Zhang Dagui , Pan Yujing , Chen Biaoqi
Published: August 2023

With the success of several clinical trials of products based on human serum albumin (HSA) and the rapid development of nanotechnology, HSA-based nanodrug delivery systems (HBNDSs) have received extensive attention in the field of nanomedicine. However, there is still a lack of comprehensive reviews exploring the broader scope of HBNDSs in biomedical applications beyond cancer therapy. To address this gap, this review takes a systematic approach. Firstly, it focuses on the crystal structure and the potential binding sites of HSA. Additionally, it provides a comprehensive summary of recent progresses in the field of HBNDSs for various biomedical applications over the past five years, categorized according to the type of therapeutic drugs loaded onto HSA. These categories include small-molecule drugs, inorganic materials and bioactive ingredients. Finally, the review summarizes the characteristics and current application status of HBNDSs in drug delivery, and also discusses the challenges that need to be addressed for the clinical transformation of HSA formulations and offers future perspectives in this field.
The Microplastics Iceberg: Filling Gaps in Our Understanding
Authors: Rede Diana , Delerue-Matos Cristina , Fernandes Virgínia Cruz
Published: August 2023

Plastic is an indispensable material in modern society; however, high production rates combined with inadequate waste management and disposal have resulted in enormous stress on ecosystems. In addition, plastics can become smaller particles known as microplastics (MPs) due to physical, chemical, and biological drivers. MP pollution has become a significant environmental problem affecting terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems worldwide. Although the topic is not entirely new, it is of great importance to the field of polymers, drawing attention to specific gaps in the existing literature, identifying future areas of research, and improving the understanding of MP pollution and its environmental impacts. Despite progress in this field, problems remain. The lack of standardized methods for MP sampling, separation, extraction, and detection makes it difficult to collect information and establish links between studies. In addition, the distribution and pathways of MPs in ecosystems remain unknown because of their heterogeneous nature and the complex matrices in which they occur. Second, toxicological tests showed that MPs can be ingested by a wide range of organisms, such as Danio rerio and Eisenia fetida, resulting in gut obstruction, physical damage, histological changes, and oxidative stress. The uptake of MP and their toxicological effects depend on their shape, size, concentration, and polymer composition. Furthermore, MPs can enter the food chain, raising concerns regarding potential contaminations for human and environmental health. This review paper sheds light on the pressing issue of MP pollution and highlights the need for interdisciplinary collaboration between scientists, policymakers, and industry leaders.
Use of Raw Peach Gum as a Sustainable Additive for the Development of Water-Sensitive and Biodegradable Thermoplastic Starch Films
Authors: Juan-Polo Andrea , Pavon Cristina , de la Rosa-Ramírez Harrison , López-Martínez Juan
Published: August 2023

In this study, formulations of thermoplastic starch (TPS) with 5, 10, and 15 parts per hundred resin (phr) of raw peach gum (PG) were prepared by melt extrusion followed by injection molding to obtain standard specimens for characterization. In addition, biodegradable films were developed by compression molding. It was determined that TPS with 5 phr and 10 phr of PG presented similar mechanical behavior to pure TPS after the processing. However, results indicated that adding PG in 10 phr slowed down the starch’s retrogradation, delaying the TPS structure’s stiffening. Moreover, the TPS–PG formulations presented improved solubility, which increased by 24% with 10 and 15 phr of PG compared to that shown for TPS. Additionally, PG enhanced the compostability of TPS, causing the sample to disintegrate in a shorter period. In conclusion, it was determined that raw PG added in 10 phr could be added as a sustainable additive to modify the biodegradation and water sensitivity of TPS without affecting its mechanical behavior after processing and delaying the retrogradation of the TPS structure, increasing its shelf life.
Analysis of Hydrothermal Ageing on Mechanical Performances of Fibre Metal Laminates
Authors: Bellini Costanzo , Di Cocco Vittorio , Iacoviello Francesco , Mocanu Larisa Patricia , Parodo Gianluca , Sorrentino Luca , Turchetta Sandro
Published: August 2023

Fibre Metal Laminates (FMLs) are very interesting materials due to their light weight coupled with their high stiffness, high fatigue resistance, and high damage tolerance. However, the presence of the polymeric matrix in the composite layers and of polymeric adhesive at the metal/composite interface can constitute an Achille’s heel for this class of materials, especially when exposed to a hot environment or water. Therefore, in the present article, aluminium/carbon fibre FML specimens were produced, aged by considering different hydrothermal conditions, and then, subjected to mechanical testing. The End-Notched Flexure (ENF) test was considered for this activity. It was found that the first ageing stage, consisting of submersion in saltwater, was very detrimental to the specimens, while the second stage, composed of high and low temperature cycles, showed an increase in the maximum load, probably due to a post-curing effect of the resin during the higher temperatures of the ageing cycles and to the dissolution of salt crystals during the subsequently ageing stages in distilled water.
Triaxial Compression Strength Prediction of Fissured Rocks in Deep-Buried Coal Mines Based on an Improved Back Propagation Neural Network Model
Authors: Wang Yiyang , Tang Bin , Tao Wenbin , Yuan Anying , Li Tianguo , Liu Zhenyu , Zhang Fenglin , Mao An
Published: August 2023

In deep coal mine strata, characterized by high ground stress and extensive fracturing, predicting the strength of fractured rock masses is crucial for stability analysis of the surrounding rock in coal mine strata. In this study, rock samples were obtained from construction sites in deep coal mine strata and intact, as well as fissured, rock specimens were prepared and subjected to triaxial compression tests. A numerical model based on the discrete element method was then established and the micro-parameters were calibrated. A total of 288 triaxial compression tests on the rock specimens under different conditions of confining pressure, loading rate, fissure dip angle, and fissure length, were conducted to obtain the triaxial compressive strength of the fractured rock specimens under different conditions. To address the limitations of traditional back propagation (BP) neural networks in solving stochastic problems, a modified BP neural network model was developed using a random factor and an interlayer mean square error corrected network model evaluation function. The traditional and modified BP neural network models were then employed to predict the triaxial compressive strength of the fractured rock specimens. Through comparative analysis, it was found that the modified BP neural network prediction model exhibited smaller errors and significantly reduced overfitting, making it an effective tool for predicting the strength of fractured rocks in deep coal mine strata.
Religious Vocabulary on Creation: Eriugena, Hildegard of Bingen, Eckhart
Authors: Soto-Bruna María Jesús
Published: August 2023

This paper departs from biblical images of creation (wisdom, word, mirror), and goes on to consider those images in three medieval thinkers from the Neoplatonist tradition. Firstly, Johannes Scotus Eriugena, who uses sapientia and in principio images. Secondly, St Hildegard of Bingen, in whose visions the images of wisdom and mirror-God appear. In third place, M. Eckhart, who refers in his Latin writings to God’s creation in se ipso. The article will try to show that a common feature regarding creatio can be found in all the three authors: the explanation of the origin of the world as manifestation of the first principle and the final return–union–to it. This subject has recently been partly dealt with by authors such as W. Beierwaltes, W. Otten or M. Marder. The present research follows the thread of previous studies, claiming at the same time to be an original contribution to the history of Neoplatonic thought about creation.
A Hyperbolic Bid Stack Approach to Electricity Price Modelling
Authors: Katona Krisztina , Nikitopoulos Christina Sklibosios , Schlögl Erik
Published: August 2023

Modelling the energy price in the Australian National Electricity Market (NEM) requires features that are not well reflected in existing models. We present a semi-structural, multi-regional model wherein bidding is not required to be cost-based, renewable fuels and storage technology are structurally integrated, and network constraints are often binding in optimal dispatch. Available fuel capacity then does not necessarily sum to registered bid capacity, as-bid fuel costs do not dependably follow input fuel prices, and cross-regional interconnectedness requires modelling trade. Furthermore, modelling the NEM spot price path must admit price negativity and price spikes. Extending previous work in the literature, the present paper proposes a hyperbolic bid stack approach to price modelling under these conditions.
Estimation and Development-Potential Analysis of Regional Housing in Ningbo City Based on High-Resolution Stereo Remote Sensing
Authors: Du Xiao , Wang Li , Tang Feng , Xu Shiguang , Muhammad Shakir , Nath Biswajit , Niu Zheng
Published: August 2023

With the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, China’s real-estate market has been facing new bottlenecks. The solution lies in an in-depth understanding of regional real-estate conditions. In the study of housing, remote sensing technology can help to extract building height as well as to calculate the number of floors and estimate the total amount of housing. It is more efficient and accurate compared to conventional statistical and sampling methods. Remote sensing is widely used in real-estate research and building height estimation, whereas it is less frequently used for the total estimation of urban housing. In this context, we used Chinese satellite GF-7 stereopair images, point of interest (POI) data, and other data combined with the digital surface model (DSM) and shadow methods to calculate the height of residential buildings. An efficient and accurate method system was then established for estimating the total housing and per capita living area (PCLA). According to the calculation of the PCLA of each district in Ningbo City (China), it was found that different regions were suitable for different development paths. Based on this, the driving factor model was derived and the real-estate development potential of Ningbo city was quantitatively analyzed. The results showed that Ningbo City, a first-tier city with a large population inflow, still has potential for real-estate development.
Advances in Wearable Photoplethysmography Applications in Health Monitoring
Authors: Nardelli Mimma , Bailón Raquel
Published: August 2023

In the last few years, interest in wearable technology for physiological signal monitoring is rapidly growing, especially during and after the COVID-19 pandemic [...]
Automatic Detection of Focal Cortical Dysplasia Using MRI: A Systematic Review
Authors: Jiménez-Murillo David , Castro-Ospina Andrés Eduardo , Duque-Muñoz Leonardo , Martínez-Vargas Juan David , Suárez-Revelo Jazmín Ximena , Vélez-Arango Jorge Mario , de la Iglesia-Vayá Maria
Published: August 2023

Focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) is a congenital brain malformation that is closely associated with epilepsy. Early and accurate diagnosis is essential for effectively treating and managing FCD. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)—one of the most commonly used non-invasive neuroimaging methods for evaluating the structure of the brain—is often implemented along with automatic methods to diagnose FCD. In this review, we define three categories for FCD identification based on MRI: visual, semi-automatic, and fully automatic methods. By conducting a systematic review following the PRISMA statement, we identified 65 relevant papers that have contributed to our understanding of automatic FCD identification techniques. The results of this review present a comprehensive overview of the current state-of-the-art in the field of automatic FCD identification and highlight the progress made and challenges ahead in developing reliable, efficient methods for automatic FCD diagnosis using MRI images. Future developments in this area will most likely lead to the integration of these automatic identification tools into medical image-viewing software, providing neurologists and radiologists with enhanced diagnostic capabilities. Moreover, new MRI sequences and higher-field-strength scanners will offer improved resolution and anatomical detail for precise FCD characterization. This review summarizes the current state of automatic FCD identification, thereby contributing to a deeper understanding and the advancement of FCD diagnosis and management.
An Ultrasonic RF Acquisition System for Plant Stems Based on Labview Double Layer Multiple Triggering
Authors: Huang Xin , Lv Danju , Xi Rui , Gao Mingyuan , Wang Ziqian , Gu Lianglian , Li Wei , Zhang Yan
Published: August 2023

Ultrasound is widely used in medical and engineering inspections due to its non-destructive and easy-to-use characteristics. However, the complex internal structure of plant stems presents challenges for ultrasound testing. The density and thickness differences in various types of stems can cause different attenuation of ultrasonic signal propagation and the formation of different echo locations. To detect structural changes in plant stems, it is crucial to acquire complete ultrasonic echo RF signals. However, there is currently no dedicated ultrasonic RF detection equipment for plant stems, and some ultrasonic acquisition equipment has limited memory capacity that cannot store a complete echo signal. To address this problem, this paper proposes a double-layer multiple-timing trigger method, which can store multiple trigger sampling memories to meet the sampling needs of different plant stems with different ultrasonic echo locations. The method was tested in experiments and found to be effective in acquiring complete ultrasonic RF echo signals for plant stems. This approach has practical significance for the ultrasonic detection of plant stems.
PBPK Evaluation of Sofosbuvir Dose in Pediatrics Using Simcyp®
Authors: Elkeeb Rania , Avartoomian Anomeh , Gouda Amira S. , Abdel-Megied Ahmed M. , Abdallah Ola , Atef Eman
Published: August 2023

The aim of the study is to evaluate the effectiveness of the pediatric sofosbuvir weight-based dosing strategy in providing an equitable drug exposure compared to the marketed dose. The physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling and simulation is a valuable tool in assessing drug dosing and toxicity in populations with physiological, pathological, and genetic pharmacokinetic (PK) variability. The PBPK model of the sofosbuvir compound was developed using Simcyp® V20. The model was developed and verified using the published sofosbuvir’s physicochemical properties and clinical data from multiple studies on healthy adult volunteers, hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected adults, and HCV-infected pediatrics. The AUC and Cmax fold ratio of (predicted/observed) fell within the acceptable range of 0.5–2 in all tested adults’ data, confirming the successful development of the sofosbuvir Simcyp® compound model. Using this model, a weight-based dosing regimen of 6 mg/kg in pediatric patients was simulated and compared to the 150 mg and 200 mg approved dose for 3–6 and 6–12 y/o pediatric patients, respectively. No dose adjustment was recommended in patients ages 6–12 y/o. However, compared to the approved 150 mg for 3–6 y/o, the weight base dose provided an equitable drug exposure to adults. Further clinical studies are warranted to verify this finding.
A Multi-Method Profiling of Adult Refugees and Migrants in an L2 Non-Formal Educational Setting: Language Needs Analysis, Linguistic Portraits, and Identity Texts
Authors: Kyrligkitsi Argyro , Mouti Anna
Published: August 2023

This paper will attempt to visualize adult refugees and migrants, as well as a specific multilingual and multicultural educational setting in Greece. This study aspires to depict/present the plurilingual profiles, language needs, and challenges of L2 Greek students through a variety of tools/methods, e.g., questionnaires, portraits, narratives, needs analysis, and assessment tools. In a complementary way, this research focuses on highlighting the value of language portraits, identity texts, and translanguaging in L2 Greek classrooms. Conditions regarding the educational process in the specific educational setting will also be discussed. This was a case study conducted in an open school for migrants in Greece. Eight volunteer teachers at the school and twenty students participated in this research through a multimethod research design. Multilingual profiles and learners’ needs and goals became visible, and the teachers managed to “hear” the multilingual voices of their students and understand their multilingual profiles. Overall, it is clear that these findings pave the way for large-scale research to investigate in depth everything presented in this research. Using language portraits and identity texts as group activities helps to conduct a productive discussion in the classroom, through which students gain access to the use of concepts such as “multilingualism”, “multiculturalism”, and “diversity”.
Effects of Exercise on Quality of Life in Subjects with Alzheimer’s Disease: Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials
Authors: Mendes Mariana , Correia Érica , Vitorino Anabela , Rodrigues José , Cid Luís , Bento Teresa , Antunes Raul , Monteiro Diogo , Couto Nuno
Published: August 2023

Alzheimer’s disease is a type of dementia that progressively affects memory, thinking, and behavior. It can interfere with daily activities and lead to a decline in cognitive abilities over time. Exercise-based interventions can complement Alzheimer’s disease treatment. Exercise is a valuable tool in all healthcare settings and has shown promise as an effective cognitive improvement intervention for people with cognitive impairments. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to analyze the effect of physical exercise on the QoL of subjects with Alzheimer’s disease. A search was performed with the help of the electronic databases PubMed and Web of Science. Randomized controlled trials with exercise-based interventions were selected. Four studies met the inclusion criteria, which included interventions based on exercise. The effects were summarized using standardized mean differences (95% confidence intervals) using random-effect models. The results showed that exercise had no significant effect on the QoL of subjects with Alzheimer. Thus, the effect of exercise interventions on the QoL of patients with Alzheimer’s disease is not conclusive. More research is needed about this topic and the way in which the QoL is assessed; the necessity to conduct an objective way to assess the QoL in this population is mandatory.
The Impact of Customer-Centric Sustainability on Brand Relationships
Authors: Nogueira Mafalda , Silva Bruno , Gomes Sandra
Published: August 2023

This paper contributes to the existing but scarce literature on customer-centric sustainability and measures consumers’ perceptions of fast-fashion brands regarding economic, environmental, and social sustainability. Furthermore, it aims to test the impact of each dimension of customer–brand relationships, specifically brand trust, affective brand commitment, and continuance brand commitment. A research model and nine hypotheses were tested through multiple linear regressions using a convenience sample of 228 Portuguese fast-fashion consumers. It also provides additional insights into how consumers’ perceptions of the three dimensions of sustainability might affect customer–brand relationships, namely brand trust and brand commitment. The results reveal a significant relationship between all dimensions of customer-centric sustainability and brand trust. Furthermore, economic sustainability and social sustainability were found to significantly predict effective brand commitment. Additionally, this study demonstrates that brand trust positively influences consumers’ intentions to maintain long-term relationships with fast-fashion brands. The implications of the results are discussed in detail, shedding light on the importance of incorporating customer-centric sustainability practices into brand management strategies within the fast-fashion industry. Further elaboration and discussion of the results can be found in this study.
Study on Energy Flow Characteristics of Solar–Gas Combined Heating System for Settling Tank of Oilfield
Authors: Meng Fanbin , Yu Yang , Wu Yangyang , Li Dong , Zhao Xuefeng , Meng Lan , Wang Zhihua
Published: August 2023

Heating furnaces fueled by fossil fuels are commonly utilized in oilfields to provide heat to the settling tank, which heats the layer of crude oil. However, this traditional heating method consumes a significant amount of oil and gas resources, resulting in low energy utilization and environmental pollution. As the water content of the extracted crude oil increases over time, the operating costs of the settling tanks also continue to increase. Therefore, it is crucial to develop and implement clean and efficient heating technologies to facilitate the efficient operation of settling tanks. This paper proposes a solar–gas combined heating technology for settling tanks. A simulation model for the solar–gas combined heating system for the settling tank is constructed, considering the overall perspective of the system. The simulation model analyzes the impact of the control strategy for the oil collection period of the settling tank on the system performance. This analysis covers various aspects including the heat collection of the solar collector, the heat supply of the gas boiler, and the heat storage and release of the phase-change heat storage tank. The results demonstrate that when the oil collection cycle is Scheme E (4:00–8:00), the collector achieves the highest annual cumulative heat collection, the gas boiler provides the lowest annual total heat supply, and the phase-change heat storage tank exhibits the highest heat storage and release efficiency. Over the course of the system’s 15 year service life, the settling tank solar–gas combined heating system saves 727,988.69 MJ of energy annually, resulting in total energy-saving costs of CNY 397,007. The dynamic investment payback period is estimated at 9.14 years, and the system reduces CO2 emissions by 753,069.8 kg.
How Innovation Affects Users’ Emotional Responses: Implications for Product Success and Business Sustainability
Authors: Alonso-García María , Moreno Nieto Daniel , Cabrera Revuelta Elena
Published: August 2023

The market is experiencing an expanding range of products, prompting manufacturing companies to differentiate themselves from competitors by moving away from conventional concepts. However, these innovations often fail to meet consumer expectations, leading to product failure, and consequently, an unsustainable evolution of the market and the business. This unsustainability requires designers to adapt innovations to align with consumer needs and desires. Understanding and validating these adaptations can be achieved by examining users’ emotional responses to innovative products. The objective of this study is to assess the influence of innovation in the development of new successful products, sales performance, and, therefore, business sustainability. This evaluation is based on the perceptions of potential consumers through the analysis of users’ emotional responses to various new product concepts at different design stages. A case study presents the evaluation of 48 new interactive lamp concepts categorized into relaxation, study, and leisure topics. The target audience for these concepts is consumers aged 18 to 24. The designs were developed by 12 teams of final-year industrial design students using insights from a prior psychographic study involving over 800 potential consumers. The findings highlight differences in users’ perceptions of innovative and traditional products across topics. These differences relate to users’ interest, intuitiveness, and desirability toward a product. Generally, traditional product concepts are perceived as more intuitive, but users show greater interest and desire for innovative concepts, with some variations among the analyzed topics. The business environment is encouraged to share these data with new product-development teams to achieve sustainable market and business growth.
Mining Chinese Consumer Minds: Motivations for Selling Unwanted Fashion Items in Online Resale Marketplaces
Authors: Wang Zhongjie , Liu Chuanlan
Published: August 2023

With the development of China’s fashion resale market, sustainable consumption patterns have gradually become popular in China. Although the prospects of China’s fashion resale market are recognized, more and more consumers are also actively participating in the circular consumption model. Consumers have multiple identities in participating in resale, and can be sellers or buyers. However, the sales intention of Chinese consumers to participate in resale as sellers is still unclear. We need to understand what value Chinese consumers are looking for in resale as sellers. The focus of this exploratory study is to understand the intention of Chinese consumers to sell unwanted fashion items as sellers to determine the key attributes that affect customer value and participation. This study applies consumer value theory to explore consumers’ sales intentions and potential themes. This empirical study collected a sample of 1217 seller resale reviews from social media platforms, using LDA text mining, textual point of view extraction, and co-occurrence plotting for data analysis. Nine potential themes were drawn. The results show that lifestyle change is the primary reason why most consumers participate in resale. The perception of their self-concept prompts Chinese consumers to participate in resale. This article provides theoretical and practical significance.
Measuring the Circularity and Impact Reduction Potential of Post-Industrial and Post-Consumer Recycled Plastics
Authors: Schulte Anna , Kampmann Benjamin , Galafton Christina
Published: August 2023

Post-industrial recycling (PIR) and post-consumer recycling (PCR) are measures used to sustain resources by improving material circularity and sustainability. Currently, circularity is mainly measured as the degree of reutilization of a material from 0 to 100% at the product or company level. This measure fails to assess the resource usage over multiple product life cycles. Therefore, we propose to assess circularity as (i) the frequency of resource use in products (effective circularity, eC), and as (ii) a vehicle to reduce environmental impacts (environmentally efficient circularity, eeC). Additionally, to compare the environmental impacts of using recycled materials from PIR or PCR, we analyze their impact reduction potential (IRP), indicating the environmental benefits of recycling in relation to virgin material submitted to the market. We demonstrate the suggested indicators for a case study material: polypropylene. For this polymer type, the eC ranges between 0.93 and 9.08 uses of the resource, on average, depending on collection, sorting, and recycling rates. Likewise, the eeC ranges between 0.31 and 1.50 uses per kg of CO2 equivalents emitted. PCR has a higher IRP regarding climate change impacts than PIR in all analyzed scenarios. The results reveal the relevance of PCR and PIR beyond the product life cycle. Finally, we discuss possible embeddings of the indicators in the assessment of climate policy and environmental protection measures, such as strengthening the use of PCR in contrast to PIR materials.
Sustainability of Forest Development in China from the Perspective of the Illegal Logging Trade
Authors: Sheng Jiping , Gao Xiaoge , Zhang Zhao
Published: August 2023

The illegal logging trade (ILT) is considered one of the major causes of global deforestation and ecological unsustainability. To prevent the price-suppressing damage caused by ILT to the local wood market and global ecological environment, the Chinese government and non-governmental organizations have taken many actions to deal with it. This study used wood trade data to analyze the current status of ILT in China, summarized the efforts and shortcomings of ILT response actions taken by China, and discussed the possible strategies and sustainable development prospects for combating ILT in China’s future. After studying China’s situation in the field of ILT and analyzing the advantages and disadvantages of China’s measures to deal with ILT, this study found that the volume of ILT gradually increased in China from 2013 to 2020, which might also be one of the reasons for the slowdown in global ecological sustainability. The Chinese government and non-governmental organizations have taken many actions to deal with ILT through legislation, industry supervision, and international cooperation; to date, these response actions have achieved some positive results. Therefore, on this basis, this study proposed that China needs to further limit and manage ILT to achieve sustainable development of forest resources in the future. Strengthening the legislation, especially the restriction of ILT clauses, as a mandatory policy is the most important means to solve the ILT problem, which can provide the legal basis and a reference for other actions. Using economic means to encourage the import of legal wood is also a viable action to crowd out the trade of illegal wood. It is also necessary to promote an international certification system for wood and the standardization and systematization of logging is also a good way to mitigate ILT. Improving the management of wood being imported into China will fill a critical gap at the global scale in dealing with ILT and have positive impacts on combating global ILT.
A Systematic Analysis for Mapping Product-Oriented and Process-Oriented Zero-Defect Manufacturing (ZDM) in the Industry 4.0 Era
Authors: Psarommatis Foivos , May Gökan
Published: August 2023

Quality is a key aspect in the era of Industry 4.0. Zero-defect manufacturing (ZDM) as the latest quality assurance approach. It can be implemented in two different approaches: the product-oriented and the process-oriented ZDM. It is important to know how and when to consider adopting one approach over the other. To achieve that there is the need for analyzing the differences of the two ZDM approaches. However, the current literature lacks a detailed analysis and comparison of these two approaches to ZDM implementation. Earlier studies on the topic have adopted one of these approaches over the other without evaluating how it fits with specific cases. The literature of the last decade indicates a movement towards product-oriented approaches, but it has not shown proof why product oriented was used over process oriented. Guided by these gaps, this research work creates a model for quantifying the effects of the implementation of both the product-oriented and process-oriented ZDM approaches. The proposed model considers all the critical parameters that affect the problem and serves as an assisting tool to engineers during the design or re-configure manufacturing systems, for choosing the most efficient ZDM approach for their specific cases. The robustness of the model was analyzed using the design of experiments method. The results from both the designed experiments and an industrial use case illustrate that in most cases, product-oriented ZDM performs better than the process-oriented approach. Nevertheless, in our analysis, we also highlight strong interactions between some factors that make the selection between product-oriented and process-oriented ZDM difficult and complex.
Postmortem Analysis of Vitreous Urea Nitrogen, Creatinine, and Magnesium of Renal and Post-Renal Disease in Cats
Authors: Stern Adam W. , Roig Daliana , Valerio Courtney , Denagamage Thomas
Published: August 2023

Analysis of vitreous urea nitrogen (VUN) and creatinine (CREA) has been shown to be a useful indicator of azotemia in human postmortem examinations. Previous studies in cats, dogs, horses, and cattle have shown a good correlation between serum and postmortem ocular fluid for urea and creatinine. The aim of this study was to evaluate differences in VUN, CREA, and magnesium (MG) concentrations in vitreous humor collected postmortem from cats that presented with renal or post-renal disease and cats without renal or post-renal disease. Nine cats with renal or post-renal disease and twenty cats without renal or post-renal disease that underwent autopsy were used in this study. Collection of postmortem vitreous humor was performed, and vitreous samples were frozen at −80 °C for a minimum of 24 h prior to analysis using an in-clinic dry chemistry analyzer. Overall, there were statistically significant differences for VUN, CREA, and MG between cats with renal or post-renal disease and cats without renal or post-renal disease. Analysis of vitreous humor from cats suspected to have renal or post-renal disease can provide useful diagnostic information pertaining to renal function and issues in the urethra and urinary bladder. Future studies exploring postmortem vitreous chemistry in cats are warranted.
Hand Sanitizer Gels: Classification, Challenges, and the Future of Multipurpose Hand Hygiene Products
Authors: Ma Yilei , Yi Jia , Ma Jiahui , Yu Haiyang , Luo Li , Wu Wei , Jin Libo , Yang Qinsi , Lou Ting , Sun Da , Cao Min
Published: August 2023

Hand hygiene is a crucial measure in the prevention and control of infections, and there is a growing awareness among individuals who are making a conscious effort to maintain hand cleanliness. With the advent of the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak, the demand for hand hygiene products has also gradually shifted towards those with antimicrobial properties. Among these products, hand sanitizer gels (HSGs) have gained considerable popularity as an efficient method of hand cleaning, due to their rapid drying and sustained antimicrobial efficacy. Concurrently, there has been a growing interest in novel HSGs that offer additional functions such as skin whitening, moisturizing, and anti-inflammatory effects. These novel HSGs effectively address concerns associated with the ingestion of antimicrobial ingredients and demonstrate reduced skin irritation, thereby alleviating hand dermatological issues. This review provides an extensive overview of the application scenarios, classification, and challenges associated with HSGs while emphasizing the emergence of novel components with biological functions, aiming to contribute to the advancement of hand hygiene practices and offer novel insights for the development of novel HSGs with outstanding antimicrobial properties with other multiple biological functions and desirable biosafety profiles.
Host Cell–Virus Interaction 2.0: Viral Stratagems of Immune Evasion, Host Cellular Responses and Antiviral Counterattacks
Authors: Mukherjee Anupam , Bagchi Parikshit
Published: August 2023

As rightly stated by the author Mira Grant in her novel Countdown, “There is nothing so patient, in this world or any other, as a virus searching for a host” [...]