bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biological Activity of Pumpkin Byproducts: Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Properties
Authors: Leichtweis Maria G. , Molina Adriana K. , Pires Tânia C. S. , Dias Maria Inês , Calhelha Ricardo , Bachari Khaldoun , Ziani Borhane E. C. , Oliveira M. Beatriz P. P. , Pereira Carla , Barros Lillian
Published: November 2022

Pumpkin fruits are widely appreciated and consumed worldwide. In addition to their balanced nutritional profile, pumpkin species also present valuable bioactive compounds that confer biological and pharmacological properties to them. However, the seeds, peels, and fibrous strands resulting from pumpkin processing are still poorly explored by the food industry. The current study used those fruit components from the genotypes of pumpkin that are economically significant in Portugal and Algeria to produce bioactive extracts. In order to support their usage as preservatives, their phenolic content (HPLC-DAD-ESI/MS) and antioxidant (OxHLIA and TBARS) and antimicrobial properties (against eight bacterial and two fungal strains) were assessed. In terms of phenolic profile, the peel of the Portuguese ‘Common Pumpkin’ showed the most diversified profile and also the highest concentration of total phenolic compounds, with considerable concentrations of (-)-epicatechin. Regarding the antioxidant capacity, the seeds of ‘Butternut Squash’ from both countries stood out, while the fibrous strands of Portuguese ‘Butternut Squash’ and the seeds of Algerian ‘Gold Nugget Pumpkin’ revealed the strongest antimicrobial activity. The bioactive compounds identified in the pumpkin byproducts may validate their enormous potential as a source of bio-based preservatives that may enhance consumers’ health and promote a circular economy.
Proton Affinity in the Chemistry of Beta-Octamolybdate: HPLC-ICP-AES, NMR and Structural Studies
Authors: Volchek Victoria V. , Kompankov Nikolay B. , Sokolov Maxim N. , Abramov Pavel A.
Published: November 2022

The affinity of [β-Mo8O26]4− toward different proton sources has been studied in various conditions. The proposed sites for proton coordination were highlighted with single crystal X-ray diffraction (SCXRD) analysis of (Bu4N)3[β-{Ag(py-NH2)Mo8O26]}] (1) and from analysis of reported structures. Structural rearrangement of [β-Mo8O26]4− as a direct response to protonation was studied in solution with 95Mo NMR and HPLC-ICP-AES techniques. A new type of proton transfer reaction between (Bu4N)4[β-Mo8O26] and (Bu4N)4H2[V10O28] in DMSO results in both polyoxometalates transformation into [V2Mo4O19]4−, which was confirmed by the 95Mo, 51V NMR and HPLC-ICP-AES techniques. The same type of reaction with [H4SiW12O40] in DMSO leads to metal redistribution with formation of [W2Mo4O19]2−.
Evaluation of Biocompatibility, Anti-Inflammatory, and Antinociceptive Activities of Pequi Oil-Based Nanoemulsions in In Vitro and In Vivo Models
Authors: Pinheiro Andréia C. , Ombredane Alicia S. , Pinheiro Willie O. , Andrade Laise R. , Silva Vitória R. P. , Felice Gisela J. , Alves Débora S. , Albernaz Aryanne F. , Silveira Ariane P. , Lima Milena C. F. , Veiga-Junior Valdir F. , Gomes Thamis F. S. , Damasceno Emanuel A. M. , Veiga-Souza Fabiane H. , Souza Paulo E. N. , Báo Sônia N. , Duarte Eliza C. B. , Carneiro Marcella L. B. , Azevedo Ricardo B. , Funez Mani I. , Joanitti Graziella A.
Published: November 2022

Pequi oil (Caryocar brasiliense) contains bioactive compounds capable of modulating the inflammatory process; however, its hydrophobic characteristic limits its therapeutic use. The encapsulation of pequi oil in nanoemulsions can improve its biodistribution and promote its immunomodulatory effects. Thus, the objective of the present study was to formulate pequi oil-based nanoemulsions (PeNE) to evaluate their biocompatibility, anti-inflammatory, and antinociceptive effects in in vitro (macrophages—J774.16) and in vivo (Rattus novergicus) models. PeNE were biocompatible, showed no cytotoxic and genotoxic effects and no changes in body weight, biochemistry, or histology of treated animals at all concentrations tested (90–360 µg/mL for 24 h, in vitro; 100–400 mg/kg p.o. 15 days, in vivo). It was possible to observe antinociceptive effects in a dose-dependent manner in the animals treated with PeNE, with a reduction of 27 and 40% in the doses of 100 and 400 mg/kg of PeNE, respectively (p < 0.05); however, the treatment with PeNE did not induce edema reduction in animals with carrageenan-induced edema. Thus, the promising results of this study point to the use of free and nanostructured pequi oil as a possible future approach to a preventive/therapeutic complementary treatment alongside existing conventional therapies for analgesia.
The Effects of Dietary Interventions on Brain Aging and Neurological Diseases
Authors: Lobo Fleur , Haase Jonathan , Brandhorst Sebastian
Published: November 2022

Dietary interventions can ameliorate age-related neurological decline. Decades of research of in vitro studies, animal models, and clinical trials support their ability and efficacy to improve behavioral outcomes by inducing biochemical and physiological changes that lead to a more resilient brain. Dietary interventions including calorie restriction, alternate day fasting, time restricted feeding, and fasting mimicking diets not only improve normal brain aging but also slow down, or even reverse, the progression of neurological diseases. In this review, we focus on the effects of intermittent and periodic fasting on improving phenotypic outcomes, such as cognitive and motor-coordination decline, in the normal aging brain through an increase in neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity, and decrease in neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and oxidative stress. We summarize the results of various dietary interventions in animal models of age-related neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, and Multiple Sclerosis and discuss the results of clinical trials that explore the feasibility of dietary interventions in the prevention and treatment of these diseases.
Nutrient-Level Evaluation of Meals Provided on the Government-Funded School Lunch Program in New Zealand
Authors: de  Seymour Jamie , Stollenwerk Cavallaro Alessandro , Wharemate-Keung Laurie , Ching Sheryl , Jackson Jasmin
Published: November 2022

Approximately 1 in 6 children in New Zealand are living in households facing poverty and 14% of the population is food insecure. The Ka Ora, Ka Ako|Healthy School Lunches program aims to reduce food insecurity by providing access to a nutritious lunch every school day. This study analyzed the nutritional content of Ka Ora, Ka Ako meals and compared them to national and international standards. Meals were selected at random from approved menus. The suppliers covered by the 302 meals analyzed provide 161,699 students with a lunch (74.9% of students on the program). The meals were analyzed using Foodworks 10 nutrient analysis software. The nutrient content was compared against the New Zealand/Australia Nutrient Reference Values (NRVs) and to nutrient-level standards for international school lunch programs. A total of 77.5% of nutrients analyzed exceeded 30% of the recommended daily intakes. Protein, vitamin A and folate met the NRV targets and a majority of the international standards (55/57). Energy, calcium, and iron were low compared to NRVs and international standards (meeting 2/76 standards). Carbohydrates were low compared to international standards. The findings have been used to inform the development of revised nutrition standards for the program, which will be released in 2022.
Nursing Interventions for Head and Neck Cancer Patients That Promote Embracement in the Operating Room/Surgery Unit: A Near-Empty Scoping Review
Authors: Cruz Carla Sofia Ramos , Baixinho Cristina Lavareda , Bernardes Rafael A. , Ferreira Óscar Ramos
Published: November 2022

Head and neck tumours are the fifth leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. They are hostile invasive neoplastic diseases that negatively impact individuals’ functionality. The aim of this study was to map the nursing interventions to be carried out with head and neck cancer patients in preoperative nursing consultations. Given the study’s aim, a scoping review was chosen based on the principles advocated by the Joanna Briggs Institute and using the CINAHL and Medline databases. The review was conducted in April and May 2021. Of the 56 articles obtained, only 1 met the inclusion criteria, indicating a gap in studies about head and neck cancer patients. Preoperative nursing consultations allow patients and family members to ask questions and voice concerns. The nursing intervention identified by the review included interviews, in which nurses explain the concepts related to the diagnosis, the procedures involved in the surgery, and the inherent consequences. Flyers containing images and photos can be used to facilitate interpretation.
Antimicrobial Resistance of Salmonella Strains Isolated from Human, Wild Boar, and Environmental Samples in 2018–2020 in the Northwest of Italy
Authors: Listorti Valeria , Garcia-Vozmediano Aitor , Pitti Monica , Maurella Cristiana , Adriano Daniela , Ercolini Carlo , Dellepiane Monica , Guardone Lisa , Razzuoli Elisabetta
Published: November 2022

Antimicrobial resistance is one of the most challenging public health problems worldwide, and integrated surveillance is a key aspect in a One Health control strategy. Additionally, Salmonella is the second most common zoonosis in Europe. We aimed to investigate the circulation of Salmonella strains and their related antimicrobial resistance in human, environmental, and wild boar samples from the northwest of Italy, from 2018 to 2020, to obtain a more comprehensive epidemiological picture. Salmonella Typhimurium 1,4,[5],12:i:-, S. Veneziana and S. Newport were the most common serotypes occurring in humans, the environment, and wild boar, respectively. Antimicrobial resistance was rather common in Salmonella isolates, with those from human displaying the highest degree of resistance against sulfadiazine–sulfamerazine–sulfamethazine (>90% of resistance). Moreover, resistance against azithromycin were exclusively observed in environmental samples, while only 7.7% (95% CI = 1.6–20.8) of wild boar isolates experienced resistance against trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole. Multidrug resistance concurrently involved up to seven antimicrobial classes in human isolates, including third-generation cephalosporins and fluoroquinolones. Salmonella Typhimurium in humans and serotypes Goldcoast and Rissen from environmental sources showed the highest levels of resistance. This study shows diverse antimicrobial resistance patterns in Salmonella strains isolated from different sources and gives a broad picture of antimicrobial resistance spread in wild animals, humans, and the environment.
Antibacterial Properties of Gold Nanoparticles in the Modification of Medical Implants: A Systematic Review
Authors: Zhan Xinxin , Yan Jianglong , Tang Hao , Xia Dandan , Lin Hong
Published: November 2022

The widespread occurrence of bacterial infections and their increased resistance to antibiotics has led to the development of antimicrobial coatings for multiple medical implants. Owing to their desirable properties, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have been developed as antibacterial agents. This systematic investigation sought to analyze the antibacterial effects of implant material surfaces modified with AuNPs. The data from 27 relevant studies were summed up. The included articles were collected from September 2011 to September 2021. According to the retrieved literature, we found that medical implants modified by AuNPs have good antibacterial effects against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, and the antibacterial effects would be improved by near-infrared (NIR) radiation.
Determination of the Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Isoniazid, Rifampicin, Pyrazinamide and Ethambutol in a Cross-Over Cynomolgus Macaque Model of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Infection
Authors: Sibley Laura , White Andrew D. , Sarfas Charlotte , Gullick Jennie , Gleeson Fergus , Lanni Faye , Clark Simon , Rayner Emma , Ferrer-Bazaga Santiago , Ortega-Muro Fatima , Alameda Laura , Rullas Joaquin , Sousa Veronica , Martinez Marisa , Angulo-Barturen Inigo , Garcia Adolfo , Vaquero Juan José , Pertinez Henry E. , Davies Geraint , Dennis Mike , Williams Ann , Sharpe Sally
Published: November 2022

Innovative cross-over study designs were explored in non-human primate (NHP) studies to determine the value of this approach for the evaluation of drug efficacy against tuberculosis (TB). Firstly, the pharmacokinetics (PK) of each of the drugs Isoniazid (H), Rifampicin (R), Pyrazinamide (Z) and Ethambutol (E), that are standardly used for the treatment of tuberculosis, was established in the blood of macaques after oral dosing as a monotherapy or in combination. Two studies were conducted to evaluate the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of different drug combinations using cross-over designs. The first employed a balanced, three-period Pigeon design with an extra period; this ensured that treatment by period interactions and carry-over could be detected comparing the treatments HR, HZ and HRZ using H37Rv as the challenge strain of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tb). Although the design accounted for considerable variability between animals, the three regimens evaluated could not be distinguished using any of the alternative endpoints assessed. However, the degree of pathology achieved using H37Rv in the model during this study was less than expected. Based on these findings, a second experiment using a classical AB/BA design comparing HE with HRZ was conducted using the M. tb Erdman strain. More extensive pathology was observed, and differences in computerized tomography (CT) scores and bacteriology counts in the lungs were detected, although due to the small group sizes, clearer differences were not distinguished. Type 1 T helper (Th1) cell response profiles were characterized using the IFN-γ ELISPOT assay and revealed differences between drug treatments that corresponded to decreases in disease burden. Therefore, the studies performed support the utility of the NHP model for the determination of PK/PD of TB drugs, although further work is required to optimize the use of cross-over study designs.
CuS-131I-PEG Nanotheranostics-Induced “Multiple Mild-Hyperthermia” Strategy to Overcome Radio-Resistance in Lung Cancer Brachytherapy
Authors: Cui Yanna , Yan Hui , Wang Haoze , Zhang Yongming , Li Meng , Cui Kai , Xiao Zeyu , Liu Liu , Xie Wenhui
Published: November 2022

Brachytherapy is one mainstay treatment for lung cancer. However, a great challenge in brachytherapy is radio-resistance, which is caused by severe hypoxia in solid tumors. In this research, we have developed a PEGylated 131I-labeled CuS nanotheranostics (CuS-131I-PEG)-induced “multiple mild-hyperthermia” strategy to reverse hypoxia-associated radio-resistance. Specifically, after being injected with CuS-131I-PEG nanotheranostics, tumors were irradiated by NIR laser to mildly increase tumor temperature (39~40 °C). This mild hyperthermia can improve oxygen levels and reduce expression of hypoxia-induced factor-1α (HIF-1α) inside tumors, which brings about alleviation of tumor hypoxia and reversion of hypoxia-induced radio-resistance. During the entire treatment, tumors are treated by photothermal brachytherapy three times, and meanwhile mild hyperthermia stimulation is conducted before each treatment of photothermal brachytherapy, which is defined as a “multiple mild-hyperthermia” strategy. Based on this strategy, tumors have been completely inhibited. Overall, our research presents a simple and effective “multiple mild-hyperthermia” strategy for reversing radio-resistance of lung cancer, achieving the combined photothermal brachytherapy.
Beyond Contraception: Pharmacist Roles to Support Maternal Health
Authors: DiPietro Mager Natalie , Bright David , Shipman Allie Jo
Published: November 2022

While contraception prescribing by pharmacists has seen rapid growth in recent years, pharmacist-provided services that can impact maternal health encompass more than just contraception. Each phase of maternal health—preconception, pregnancy, and post-pregnancy—has unique needs, and pharmacists are well equipped to provide services to meet those needs and are more accessible than other healthcare providers. While pharmacist-provided maternal health services may lead to significant savings to the healthcare system, additional research to more fully capture the value of pharmacist-provided maternal health services is needed. Robust implementation of a pharmacist-provided maternal health services program will require partnerships between providers, payers, and pharmacists. Infant and maternal mortality, preterm birth, and unintended pregnancies are significant public health issues, and pharmacists should be seen as a capable workforce who can provide needed maternal health care and serve as a gateway into the healthcare system for those capable of pregnancy.
Broadband and Remote Electromagnetic Spectrum Sensing Based on Photonic Electric Field Sensor Chip
Authors: Liu Zhao , Du Wenhao , Zhao Lan , Luo Lijun , Qiu Le , Zhang Lingjie , Sun Bao , Zhang Shangjian , Liu Yong
Published: November 2022

Electromagnetic spectrum sensing is quite important for communication safety in commercial wireless communication, as well as for the equipment paralysis of rivals and self-protection in modern warfare. Specifically, a passive electric field sensor featured with broadband, remote sensing capabilities and small size is urgently needed to realize spectrum sensing. Here, we demonstrate a photonic electric field sensor operating in the frequency range of 10 MHz to 26.5 GHz. Based on the electric field sensor, distortion-free sensing of on–off keying signals centered at 3 GHz is achieved under a bit rate up to 40 Mb/s. In addition, remote electromagnetic spectrum sensing is also demonstrated up to 70 km, where the signal-to-noise ratio is measured to be larger than 20 dB.
A Deep Reinforcement Learning Algorithm for Smart Control of Hysteresis Phenomena in a Mode-Locked Fiber Laser
Authors: Kokhanovskiy Alexey , Shevelev Alexey , Serebrennikov Kirill , Kuprikov Evgeny , Turitsyn Sergey
Published: November 2022

We experimentally demonstrate the application of a double deep Q-learning network algorithm (DDQN) for design of a self-starting fiber mode-locked laser. In contrast to the static optimization of a system design, the DDQN reinforcement algorithm is capable of learning the strategy of dynamic adjustment of the cavity parameters. Here, we apply the DDQN algorithm for stable soliton generation in a fiber laser cavity exploiting a nonlinear polarization evolution mechanism. The algorithm learns the hysteresis phenomena that manifest themselves as different pumping-power thresholds for mode-locked regimes for diverse trajectories of adjusting optical pumping.
An In Vitro Protocol for Propagating Castanea sativa Italian Cultivars
Authors: Pavese Vera , Ruffa Paola , Abbà Silvia , Costa Rita Lourenço , Corredoira Elena , Silvestri Cristian , Torello Marinoni Daniela , Botta Roberto
Published: November 2022

Castanea sativa cv. ‘Garrone Rosso’ and ‘Marrone di Castel del Rio’ are two of the most prized varieties in Italy due to their valuable and healthy nuts used for fresh consumption and in the confectionery industry. Despite the growing demand for chestnuts, there are constraints regarding plant propagation that hamper the renewal and new planting of orchards in different areas. Castanea sativa is susceptible to diseases that have caused a reduction in its area of production. For this reason, in vitro culture represents a valuable technique for germplasm preservation and plant multiplication enabling production of a high number of plants for use in breeding programs. Here we present an in vitro micropropagation protocol for Italian Castanea sativa cv. ‘Marrone di Castel del Rio’ and cv. ‘Garrone Rosso’ to contribute to the preservation and enhancement of the Italian germplasm. Nodal explants were used as the starting material for in vitro establishment. The cv. ‘Marrone di Castel del Rio’ showed a high percentage of survival explants (92%) when subjected to long bleach exposure (25 min), in contrast to what was observed for the ‘Garrone Rosso’ cultivar. Ascorbic acid was found to be the best compound to counteract phenol exudation. The MS3B and DKW media supplied with 0.5 mg/L BAP were effective for in vitro establishment, while the DKW medium (0.1 mg/L BAP and 0.05 mg/L IBA) was preferable for the proliferation phase. A double-layer rooting methodology was used and 35% rooting was observed with 25 mg/L IBA rooting treatment.
Investigation of the Water Damage Resistance and Storability of a SEBS-Modified Cold-Patching Asphalt Mixture
Authors: Zhang Yuechao , Chen Zirun , Zhang Xiaoyuan , Zhang Yanhao , Zhu Xiaojun , Li Qinsong , Liu Shuai
Published: November 2022

At present, achieving good storability and water damage resistance remains challenging for cold-patching asphalt mixtures (CAMs). To address this issue, this study selects styrene–ethylene–butadiene–styrene copolymer (SEBS) and diesel as a modifier and diluent, respectively, to improve the water stability and storability of CAMs. The diesel oil content is determined through the Brookfield rotational viscosity test, and the modifier content is obtained through the Marshall stability test. With the empirical formula method, paper trail test, and modified Marshall test, mixed designs of CAMs modified with and without SEBS are established to determine the best cold-patching asphalt content. On this basis, the modification effect of SEBS is verified by comparing the test results of the modified and unmodified CAMs, and the water stability and Marshall stability tests are conducted before and after CAM storage, respectively. Results show that the optimum contents of SEBS and diesel oil are 7.5% and 40% of the base asphalt weight, respectively, and the best modified asphalt content is 4.6% of the mineral material weight in CAM. The Marshall residual stability and freeze–thaw splitting strength ratio of the 7.5% SEBS-modified CAM are increased by 20.1% and 15.7%, respectively, relative to the unmodified CAM, and the storage performance requirement of at least two months can be guaranteed.
Preparation and Characterization of Cardanol-Based Flame Retardant for Enhancing the Flame Retardancy of Epoxy Adhesives
Authors: Lee Won-Ji , Cha Sang-Ho , Kim Do-Hyun
Published: November 2022

Epoxy resin has a versatile set of applications due to its excellent properties. However, its easily flammable property limits further applications. A bio-based flame retardant, cardanyl diphenylphosphate (CDPP), was successfully synthesized via condensation reaction between cardanol and diphenyl phosphoryl chloride. The chemical structure of CDPP was confirmed via 1H nuclear magnetic resonance and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. To overcome the flammable property of epoxy resin, different amounts of CDPP were incorporated into the epoxy resin. The thermal stability of epoxy resin with CDPP was reduced due to its phosphorus component, which had a relatively weak bond. Meanwhile, the measured char residue of epoxy resin with CDPP was increased compared to its calculated value, which indicated that CDPP promoted the formation of char residue. The limiting oxygen index of epoxy resin with CDPP was enhanced as the amount of CDPP increased from 22.1% for EP0 to 32.7% for EP10. The maximum value of the heat release rate per unit area and total heat release values of EP10 decreased by 23.23% and 12.02%, respectively, as compared to those of EP0. Additionally, single lap shear strength confirmed the improvement in the adhesion property of EP5. The lap shear strength increased to 7.19 MPa for EP5 compared to 6.27 MPa for EP0. This behavior might be due to the higher polarity of the phosphorus components. Based on the findings gathered in the present study, the incorporation of a bio-based flame retardant (CDPP) in epoxy resin has the potential for improving flame retardancy and adhesion property, which will be promising for the industrial area.
A New Look at the Structure and Thermal Behavior of Polyvinylidene Fluoride–Camphor Mixtures
Authors: Pochivalov Konstantin V. , Basko Andrey V. , Lebedeva Tatyana N. , Ilyasova Anna N. , Shandryuk Georgiy A. , Snegirev Vyacheslav V. , Artemov Vladimir V. , Ezhov Alexander A. , Kudryavtsev Yaroslav V.
Published: November 2022

An experimental quasi-equilibrium phase diagram of the polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)–camphor mixture is constructed using an original optical method. For the first time, it contains a boundary curve that describes the dependence of camphor solubility in the amorphous regions of PVDF on temperature. It is argued that this diagram cannot be considered a full analogue of the eutectic phase diagrams of two low-molar-mass crystalline substances. The phase diagram is used to interpret the polarized light hot-stage microscopy data on cooling the above mixtures from a homogeneous state to room temperature and scanning electron microscopy data on the morphology of capillary-porous bodies formed upon camphor removal. Based on our calorimetry and X-ray studies, we put in doubt the possibility of incongruent crystalline complex formation between PVDF and camphor previously suggested by Dasgupta et al. (Macromolecules 2005, 38, 5602–5608). We also describe and discuss the high-temperature crystalline structure of racemic camphor, which is not available in the modern literature.
Melt-Spinnable Polyacrylonitrile—An Alternative Carbon Fiber Precursor
Authors: Chernikova Elena V. , Osipova Natalia I. , Plutalova Anna V. , Toms Roman V. , Gervald Alexander Y. , Prokopov Nickolay I. , Kulichikhin Valery G.
Published: November 2022

The review summarizes recent advances in the production of carbon fiber precursors based on melt-spun acrylonitrile copolymers. Approaches to decrease the melting point of polyacrylonitrile and acrylonitrile copolymers are analyzed, including copolymerization with inert comonomers, plasticization by various solvents and additives, among them the eco-friendly ways to use the carbon dioxide and ionic liquids. The methods for preliminary modification of precursors that provides the thermal oxidative stabilization of the fibers without their melting and the reduction in the stabilization duration without the loss of the mechanical characteristics of the fibers are discussed. Special attention is paid to different ways of crosslinking by irradiation with different sources. Examples of the carbon fibers preparation from melt-processable acrylonitrile copolymers are considered in detail. A patent search was carried out and the information on the methods for producing carbon fibers from precursors based on melt-spun acrylonitrile copolymers are summarized.
Improving the Efficiency and Antioxidant Activity of Essential Oil Extraction from Abies sachalinensis by Underwater Shockwave Pretreatment for the Construction of Low-Energy and Sustainable Essential Oil Extraction System
Authors: Kawai Hideaki , Kuraya Eisuke , Touyama Akiko , Higa Osamu , Tokeshi Kazuki , Tsujikawa Yoshie , Hokamoto Kazuyuki , Itoh Shigeru
Published: November 2022

Essential oils (EOs) from Abies sachalinensis (Sakhalin fir), a conifer species found in Sakhalin Island and Hokkaido in Japan, effectively remove nitrogen dioxide and possess antifungal activity. EOs also exert a relaxing effect and enhance air quality. Underwater shock waves generate instantaneous high pressure that ruptures cell walls, enhancing the performance of steam distillation and oil extraction. In this study, we aimed to increase the yield and quality of A. sachalinensis extracts using shockwaves. Leaves and branches were subjected to shockwave pretreatment or left untreated before EO extraction by steam distillation. EO yield of untreated dried leaves was 2.4 g/kg of dry leaf weight (DW). Upon application of a 3.0 kV, 3.6 kJ shockwave, the yield increased with the number of shockwave cycles. After ten cycles, yield increased 13.6-fold. Pretreatment with shockwaves for 10 cycles resulted in approximately 6- and 13-fold reductions in total energy consumption relative to fresh and dried leaves, respectively. Antioxidant activity increased more than 30-fold in shockwave-pretreated leaves than in untreated dried leaves after 10 cycles. This novel process can significantly reduce the energy used for EO extraction in steam distillation, thereby contributing to the development of a sustainable, low-energy EO production system.
Synthesis, Hydration Processes and Ionic Conductivity of Novel Gadolinium-Doped Ceramic Materials Based on Layered Perovskite BaLa2In2O7 for Electrochemical Purposes
Authors: Tarasova Nataliia , Bedarkova Anzhelika , Animitsa Irina , Verinkina Evgeniya
Published: November 2022

The search for novel highly effective materials with target properties for different electrochemical purposes is active for now. Ceramic materials with high levels of ionic conductivity can be applied as electrolytic materials in solid oxide fuel cells and in electrolyzers. Layered perovskites are a novel class of ionic conductors demonstrating almost-pure proton transportation at mid-temperatures. Gadolinium-doped ceramic materials based on layered perovskite BaLa2In2O7 were obtained and investigated for the first time in this study. The effect of the dopant concentrations on the hydration processes and on ionic conductivity was revealed. It was shown that compositions 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.15 of BaLa2–xGdxIn2O7 exhibited proton conductivity when under wet air and at mid-temperatures (lower than ~450 °C). Gadolinium doping led to an increase in the conductivity values up to an order of magnitude of ~0.5. The protonic conductivity of the most conductive composition BaLa1.85Gd0.15In2O7 was 2.7∙10−6 S/cm at 400 °C under wet air. The rare earth doping of layered perovskites is a prospective approach for the design of ceramics for electrochemical devices for energy applications.
Effect of Acidic Hydrochar on Plastic Crude Oil Produced from Hydrothermal Liquefaction of Waste PVC
Authors: Ghalandari Vahab , Smith Hunter , Volpe Maurizio , Messineo Antonio , Reza Toufiq
Published: November 2022

In this study, the effect of hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) of waste PVC was investigated in the presence of acidic hydrochar. The hydrochar was prepared by hydrothermal carbonization of pineapple waste at 250 °C and at 1 h in the presence of citric acid. Hydrochar was acidic, stable, and porous and contained acidic functional groups. Hydrochar was co-fed with PVC during HTL to enhance HTL conversion and quality of the plastic crude oil. HTL experiments were performed at 300–350 °C, 0.25–4 h of reaction times, and 0–20 wt% hydrochar-to-PVC ratio. The plastic crude oil was separated from the solid residue to evaluate HTL conversion and to analyze elemental compositions, boiling point distribution, alteration of chemical bonds, and chemical compositions. The results showed that acidic hydrochar enhances HTL conversion with a maximum value of 28.75 at 5 wt% hydrochar content at 350 °C and 0.5 h. Furthermore, plastic crude oils contained no chloride but contained significantly high carbon and hydrogen, resulting in a higher heating value of up to 36.43 MJ/kg. The major component of the plastic crude oil was 3, 5 dimethylphenol produced ranging from 61.4 to 86.4% (percentage of total identified area) according to gas chromatography mass spectroscopy (GCMS) data.
Study on Three-Stage Counter-Current Water Washing Desalination Characteristics and Mechanism of High Chlorine Waste Incineration Fly Ash
Authors: Li Minjie , Chen Jie , Lin Xiaoqing , Mao Tieying , Zhu Zhongxu , Lv Jiabao , Fu Congkai , Chen Siyu , Wu Angjian , Li Xiaodong , Yan Jianhua
Published: November 2022

The high chloride content of municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) fly ash and hazardous waste incineration (HWI) fly ash has considerably affected their disposal. This study focused on investigating the three-stage counter-current (TSC) water-washing process to reduce the chlorine content efficiently under the premise of low water consumption. The liquid–solid ratio (LSR) and washing time were investigated, a chloride migration model was established, and the characteristics of the water-washing solution (WWS) and washed fly ash were investigated. The results showed that the dechlorination effect of TSC washing could reach more than 99% in a low liquid–solid ratio (LSR) of 2–4 kg/L. The most appropriate LSR and washing time were found to be around 3:1 L/kg and 15 min per stage, respectively. The concentration of Cl− in WWS reached over 90 g/L, which is very high among industrial saline wastewater. Some heavy metals were also contained in the WWS, and lead was the main heavy metal, followed by zinc, copper, and arsenic. The concentration of WWS of different stages was calculated by a model, and the transfer characteristic of chloride was strongly related to the mass balance between the liquid contained in the solid–liquid separation residue (SR) and the separated liquid. After washing, due to the dissolution of soluble salt, the specific surface area of fly ash increased, and thus the absorption ability of the washed fly ash was greater than the raw one. This study provides a washing condition reference for highly chlorinated fly ash, the basic data of WWS, and the chloride migration model that is a preliminary calculation method to improve the water-washing process.
Energy Savings in the Heat Exchanger Network of an Oil Refinery Pre-Heat Train Unit Using a Path’s Combination at Different HRAT Values
Authors: Osman Abdelbagi , Mirghani Mousab Salaheldeen
Published: November 2022

Conservation of energy usage is essential in chemical process plants due to the expanded energy users and demands alongside the carry-on hike of energy prices. This study analyzed the performance of energy savings in a heat exchanger network (HEN). It is based on decreasing utility usage while increasing process-to-process heat exchange in HEN using a path combination approach at different heat recovery approach temperatures (HRATs). The approach generates different combined path options for heat shifting from utilities to exchangers in a HEN. In terms of cost targeting, the optimal HRAT in a HEN is determined for each path’s combination option. The study focused on the HEN of crude oil preheat trains. Shifting heat load between utilities implies adding and subtracting loads to and from exchangers in a HEN. Therefore, a minor retrofit to compensate for the heat transfer area is required for some HEN exchangers. The optimum HRAT corresponding to the lowest total cost was determined for each option and ranged between 8 °C and 14 °C. Moreover, two out of five options in HEN with low capital investment and a short payback period were found to be promising.
Supporting Management Disciplines for Research and Development in Public Organizations
Authors: Asim Zeeshan , Sorooshian Shahryar
Published: November 2022

In practice, R&D in public organizations in developing countries is confronted with a variety of failures related to supporting management disciplines. The primary goal of this study is to address this issue through multiple-criteria decision making, which includes the DANP (DEMATEL-based ANP) approach. The DANP approach helps to resolve the classification issue that arises as a result of interdependence and feedback characteristics among the capabilities related to supporting management disciplines, allowing weak capabilities to be prioritized based on their interdependence. In the case of criteria weighting, the empirical result in terms of the degree of the net causal relationship had a greater influence on other criteria; however, in terms of dimensions, the technology management process capability had a greater significance on other dimensions, while the innovation management process capability had the least significance on other dimensions. The studies were based on relevant capabilities under a generic perspective so as to oppose country-specific reviews. However, for empirical testing, the proposed framework needs to fit into a country-specific context. According to specific conditions, Pakistan is considered as a case of empirical testing, providing the experts from the multidisciplinary field of science and technology with robust professional credentials in managing multi-mission R&D from public organizations.
Application of Stable Isotope Techniques in Tracing the Sources of Atmospheric NOX and Nitrate
Authors: Zhen Shaosong , Luo Min , Shao Yang , Xu Diandou , Ma Lingling
Published: November 2022

Nitrate is an important component of PM2.5, and its dry deposition and wet deposition can have an impact on ecosystems. Nitrate in the atmosphere is mainly transformed by nitrogen oxides (NOX = NO + NO2) through a number of photochemical processes. For effective management of the atmosphere’s environment, it is crucial to understand the sources of atmospheric NOX and the processes that produce atmospheric nitrate. The stable isotope method is an effective analytical method for exploring the sources of NO3− in the atmosphere. This study discusses the range and causes of δ15N data from various sources of NOX emissions, provides the concepts of stable isotope techniques applied to NOX traceability, and introduces the use of Bayesian mixture models for the investigation of NOX sources. The combined application of δ15N and δ18O to determine the pathways of nitrate formation is summarized, and the contribution of Δ17O to the atmospheric nitrate formation pathway and the progress of combining Δ17O simulations to reveal the atmospheric oxidation characteristics of different regions are discussed, respectively. This paper highlights the application results and development trend of stable isotope techniques in nitrate traceability, discusses the advantages and disadvantages of stable isotope techniques in atmospheric NOX traceability, and looks forward to its future application in atmospheric nitrate pollution. The research results could provide data support for regional air pollution control measures.
Energy Transition Density of Driven Chaotic Systems: A Compound Trace Formula
Authors: Ozorio de Almeida Alfredo M.
Published: November 2022

Oscillations in the probability density of quantum transitions of the eigenstates of a chaotic Hamiltonian within classically narrow energy ranges have been shown to depend on closed compound orbits. These are formed by a pair of orbit segments, one in the energy shell of the original Hamiltonian and the other in the energy shell of the driven Hamiltonian, with endpoints that coincide. Viewed in the time domain, the same pair of trajectory segments arises in the semiclassical evaluation of the trace of a compound propagator: the product of the complex exponentials of the original Hamiltonian and of its driven image. It is shown here that the probability density is the double Fourier transform of this trace, and that the closed compound orbits emulate the role played by the periodic orbits in Gutzwiller’s trace formula in its semiclassical evaluation. The phase of the oscillations with the energies or the evolution parameters agree with those previously obtained, whereas the amplitude of the contribution of each closed compound orbit is more compact and independent of any feature of the Weyl–Wigner representation in which the calculation was carried out.
André Scrima’s Christology and Its Practical Implications
Authors: Bot Lucian Zenoviu
Published: November 2022

Father André Scrima is one of the most enigmatic figures of the Romanian Orthodox Church. Everything related to him passes as extraordinary. He was an exception among the Romanian intellectuals who suffered under communism. Beyond that, his journeys and spiritual experiences possess something indescribable, almost sacramental. His presence overwhelmed those who met him and his writings retained this trait. The present study focuses on Scrima’s Christology, highlighting its uniqueness and its practical implications. Although Scrima does not dedicate a book to the subject, all of his writings refer to it. However, due to his distinctiveness, it is difficult to organize his Christology in a systematic way. The most lucrative approach is to group his texts along the hermeneutical moments that define his writing: images, stories and stances. In Scrima’s logic, all words/signs are the very synthesis of a spiritual experience, all stories develop the theological synthesis of the signs, and the relation between the stories forms the tradition as a set of interrogations and communitarian commitments. If we evaluate Scrima’s Christology in this manner, we do not come to a system, but to a succession of images. The core of these images remains the same, Jesus Christ, yet it is seen in nuances that unveil His beauty—Stranger, Gate, Logos, Name above all names—, in an unpredictable play of perspectives. It can be said that Scrima’s approach resembles a kaleidoscope, which, by using mirrors and light, gives an insight to the unsuspected possibilities of all fixed forms.
How Do Working-Class People in China Comment on Chinese-Language Buddhist Films?
Authors: Sun Zhentao
Published: November 2022

The dissemination and acceptance of Chinese-language Buddhist films in China have not yet received much attention. This paper takes four Chinese-language Buddhist films as samples to analyze the Buddhist doctrines they contain and how they are reviewed by the Chinese working class. It points out that most Chinese working-class people are not Buddhists, their knowledge of Buddhist doctrines is relatively small and shallow, and they rely on their daily life experiences when enjoying Buddhist films, so they cannot understand Buddhist doctrines in Buddhist films that are too difficult or contrary to their daily life experiences. It argues that Chinese-language Buddhist films need to balance the missionary aspirations of Buddhism with the popular attributes of cinema so as to enhance the appeal and influence of Buddhism among the working class.
The Effect of Inventory Leanness on Firms’ Credit Ratings: The Case of Pakistan
Authors: Carvalho Paulo , Shah Sayyed , Zaheer Abrish , Mata Mário , Morão Lourenço António
Published: November 2022

Inventory leanness requires that firms minimize inventory mistreatment and misuse. A firm performance deteriorates because of high inventory misuse, and because of such an issue, the effect on the firm’s credit rating can also be seen. This study examines the effect of inventory leanness on firms’ credit ratings. It aims to create an understanding of the relationship between inventory leanness and the firm’s financial performance and provides insight into the credit rating system of Pakistan. We analyze secondary Pakistan data between 2008 and 2017. Among the sixty firms on Pakistan Stock Exchange that are rated by PACRA, only thirty-eight have complete data available on their respective websites. By using panel data analysis, the results indicate that inventory leanness and credit ratings are positively related. In an added analysis, we evaluate the financial performance in the context of credit rating by using control variables (size, leverage, and capital intensity ratio) and dummy variables (loss and subordinate debt). Our results are consistent with earlier studies.
Calibrating FBSDEs Driven Models in Finance via NNs
Authors: Di Persio Luca , Lavagnoli Emanuele , Patacca Marco
Published: November 2022

The curse of dimensionality problem refers to a set of troubles arising when dealing with huge amount of data as happens, e.g., applying standard numerical methods to solve partial differential equations related to financial modeling. To overcome the latter issue, we propose a Deep Learning approach to efficiently approximate nonlinear functions characterizing financial models in a high dimension. In particular, we consider solving the Black–Scholes–Barenblatt non-linear stochastic differential equation via a forward-backward neural network, also calibrating the related stochastic volatility model when dealing with European options. The obtained results exhibit accurate approximations of the implied volatility surface. Specifically, our method seems to significantly reduce the neural network’s training time and the approximation error on the test set.
An Enhanced Image Patch Tensor Decomposition for Infrared Small Target Detection
Authors: Lu Ziling , Huang Zhenghua , Song Qiong , Bai Kun , Li Zhengtao
Published: November 2022

Infrared small-target detection is a key technology for the infrared search and track system (IRST), but some problems still exist, such as false detections in complex backgrounds and clutter. To solve these problems, a novel image patch tensor (IPT) model for infrared small-target detection is proposed. First, to better estimate the background component, we utilize the Laplace operator to approximate the background tensor rank. Secondly, we combined local gradient features and highlighted area indicators to model the local targets prior, which can effectively suppress the complex background clutter. The proposed model was solved by the alternating direction method of multipliers (ADMM). The experimental results on various scenes show that our model achieves an excellent performance in suppressing strong edge clutter and estimating small targets.
Data-Driven Seismic Impedance Inversion Based on Multi-Scale Strategy
Authors: Zhu Guang , Chen Xiaohong , Li Jingye , Guo Kangkang
Published: November 2022

Seismic impedance inversion is one of the most commonly used techniques for reservoir characterization. High accuracy and high resolution seismic impedance is a prerequisite for subsequent reservoir interpretation. The data-driven approach offers the opportunity for accurate impedance prediction by establishing a nonlinear mapping between seismic data and impedance. However, existing data-driven methods take the raw seismic data directly as input, making it difficult for the network to learn high frequency weak signal information and resulting in low resolution inversion results. In order to mitigate the above issues, a data-driven seismic impedance inversion method based on multi-scale strategy is proposed. The method first obtains seismic data at different scales using frequency division techniques and do normalization on the extracted multi-scale data to ensure the consistency of the seismic signal energy in different frequency bands. The multi-scale seismic data will then be fed into the network, which helps the network to learn the high frequency information features more easily, and ultimately obtain higher resolution inversion results. We use the most commonly used convolutional neural network (CNN) as an example to demonstrate that the proposed multi-scale data-driven seismic impedance inversion method can improve the resolution of the inversion results. In addition, since the above seismic impedance inversion method is executed trace-by-trace, the f-x prediction filtering technique is introduced to improve the lateral continuity of the inversion results and obtain more geologically reliable impedance profiles. The validity of the proposed method is verified in the application of synthetic model data as well as an actual data set.