bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Use of Iron(II,III) Oxide (Fe3O4) as a Cross-Linking Agent for Unfilled and Filled Chlorosulfonated Polyethylene (CSM) and Study of the Vulcanizates Properties
Authors: Smejda-Krzewicka Aleksandra , Mrozowski Konrad , Kobędza Piotr , Adamus-Włodarczyk Agnieszka
Published: October 2022

This paper discusses the cross-linking behaviors, mechanical and dynamical properties, and flammability of elastomeric composites containing unconventionally cured chlorosulfonated polyethylene (CSM). The purpose of this work was to verify the CSM ability to cross-link with iron(II,III) oxide (Fe3O4) and to produce flame retardant materials. During the first series of tests, three types of CSM were used, differing in the content of bound chlorine (29–43%). The results showed that the CSM with 43% bound chlorine (Hypalon 30, CSM43) was the most advantageous type of chlorosulfonated polyethylene in terms of its properties. It exhibited a short vulcanization time, a high degree of cross-linking, and very good mechanical properties. In the next stage, the CSM composites with various fillers (talc, arsil, kaolin, chalcedonite, or carbon black) were prepared, because filled rubber materials are of the greatest practical importance. The cross-linking kinetics, equilibrium swelling, mechanical and dynamic properties as well as flammability were studied. It was found that the addition of fillers led to a decrease in the degree of cross-linking, an increase in the vulcanization time (in the case of talc, arsil, or kaolin), an increase in the overall mechanical strength (in the case of carbon black, arsil or talc). All filled vulcanizates proved to be non-flammable, as the specific oxygen index value exceeded 37.5%.
Magnetically Actuated Shape Memory Polymers for On-Demand Drug Delivery
Authors: Vakil Anand Utpal , Ramezani Maryam , Monroe Mary Beth B.
Published: October 2022

Repeated use of intravenous infusions to deliver drugs can cause nerve damage, pain, and infection. There is an unmet need for a drug delivery method that administers drugs on demand for prolonged use. Here, we developed magnetically responsive shape memory polymers (SMPs) to enhance control over drug release. Iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles (mnps) were synthesized and incorporated into previously developed SMPs to enable magnetically induced shape memory effects that can be activated remotely via the application of an alternating magnetic field. These materials were tested for their shape memory properties (dynamic mechanical analysis), cytocompatibility (3T3 fibroblast viability), and tunable drug delivery rates (UV–VIS to evaluate the release of incorporated doxorubicin, 6-mercaptopurine, and/or rhodamine). All polymer composites had >75% cytocompatibility over 72 h. Altering the polymer chemistry and mnp content provided methods to tune drug release. Namely, linear polymers with higher mnp content had faster drug release. Highly cross-linked polymer networks with lower mnp content slowed drug release. Shape memory properties and polymer/drug interactions provided additional variables to tune drug delivery rates. Polymers that were fixed in a strained secondary shape had a slower release rate compared with unstrained polymers, and hydrophobic drugs were released more slowly than hydrophilic drugs. Using these design principles, a single material with gradient chemistry and dual drug loading was synthesized, which provided a unique mechanism to deliver two drugs from a single scaffold with distinct delivery profiles. This system could be employed in future work to provide controlled release of selected drug combinations with enhanced control over release as compared with previous approaches.
A Novel Evaluation Method of Construction Homogeneity for Asphalt Pavement Based on the Characteristic of Component Distribution
Authors: Zhang Ke , Wei Guangliang , Xie Wei , Yang Baocheng , Li Wenlong , Luo Yaofei
Published: October 2022

To effectively evaluate the construction homogeneity of asphalt pavement, the tomography image of a core sample of asphalt pavement was obtained via industrial computed tomography (CT) equipment. According to the characteristics of CT images, an improved separation algorithm based on annular partition and Nobuyuki Otsu (OTSU) threshold segmentation was proposed. Based on the distribution of aggregates, voids and asphalt mortar, and the area ratio of each part in the CT images inside the pavement, a novel evaluation method for the distribution homogeneity of asphalt pavement components was put forward, and the validity of the evaluation index was also verified. The results show that the aggregates, voids and asphalt mortar in CT images can be effectively segmented by annular partition combined with the OTSU threshold separation algorithm. By superimposing the segmented image on the original image, the segmentation and identification effects of aggregates, voids and asphalt mortar in the CT image are confirmed. Compared with a non-segregated specimen, the average values of the horizontal heterogeneity coefficients of high, medium, light and fine-aggregate-segregated mixtures increased by 72.0%, 48.3%, 34.7% and 16.1%, respectively, where the change range is in accordance with the segregation degrees of several mixtures. The indirect tensile strength of fine-aggregate-, light-, medium- and high-segregated asphalt mixtures decreased by 8.3%, 16.7%, 25.0% and 45.8%, respectively, when compared with the non-segregated asphalt mixture. The index of the vertical heterogeneity coefficient has good correlation with the indirect tensile strength of segregated asphalt mixtures. The construction quality homogeneity of asphalt pavement in different regions can be reliably evaluated by the horizontal heterogeneity coefficient and vertical heterogeneity coefficient.
Conductive Membranes Based on Cotton Fabric Coated with Polymers for Electrode Applications
Authors: Aileni Raluca Maria , Chiriac Laura
Published: October 2022

This paper presents the evaluation of some electrodes based on polymeric conductive membranes (polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and polyethylene glycol (PEG)) for sensor applications. The electrodes were developed using textile support (weave structure-based 100% cotton yarns) and applying conductive membrane layers deposited on the textile surface. Coating the fabrics with thin layers of conductive membranes could generate new surfaces with the electrical resistance specific to conductive samples. Laboratory tests evaluated the physicomechanical and electrical properties. The surface resistance was investigated using a digital surface resistance meter by neglecting electrode polarization impedance. In addition, the correlation coefficients between the physicomechanical and electrical parameters obtained by the laboratory were analyzed. These conductive samples can be used to and develop flexible electrodes for moisture, temperature and strain sensors.
Tailoring Magnetic Properties of Fe0.65Co0.35 Nanoparticles by Compositing with RE2O3 (RE = La, Nd, and Sm)
Authors: Djellal Nacira , Pęczkowski Paweł , Mekki Djamel Eddine , Navarro Elena , Tahraoui Tarek , Piętosa Jarosław , Michalik Jan Marek , Marín Pilar , Gondek Łukasz
Published: October 2022

Fe-Co alloys are the most important soft magnetic materials, which are successfully used for a wide range of applications. In this work, the magnetic properties of lanthanide-substituted (Fe0.65Co0.35)0.95(RE2O3)0.05 (RE = La, Nd, and Sm) nanoparticles, prepared by mechanical alloying, are reported. Our comprehensive studies (X-ray diffraction, Mössbauer spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy with X-ray energy dispersive spectrometry, SQUID magnetometry and differential scanning calorimetry) have revealed different properties, depending on the dopant type. The RE2O3 addition led to a decrease in the crystallite size and to an increase in the internal microstrain. Moreover, because of the high grain fragmentation tendency of RE2O3, the cold welding between Fe–Co ductile particles was minimized, indicating a significant decrease in the average particle size. The parent Fe0.65Co0.35 alloy is known for its soft ferromagnetism. For the La-substituted sample, the magnetic energy product was significantly lower (0.450 MG·Oe) than for the parent alloy (0.608 MG·Oe), and much higher for the Sm-substituted compound (0.710 MG·Oe). The processing route presented here, seems to be cost-effective for the large-scale production of soft magnetic materials.
Experimental and Numerical Determination of Strength Characteristics Related to Paraglider Wing with Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy of Applied Materials
Authors: Maślanka Paulina , Aleksieiev Andrii , Korycki Ryszard , Szafrańska Halina , Dąbrowska Anna
Published: October 2022

The aim of paper is to determine experimentally and numerically the strength characteristics related to the paraglider wing with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy of applied materials. The applied method consists in theoretical modeling supplemented by the tests of material parameters. First, the set of 10 lightweight fabrics was selected for the tests; the samples are representative for these structures. The materials were tested using the spectroscopy to determine the FTIR spectra. The samples differ in the content of certain characteristic groups. Air permeability change of the materials was determined for the different pressure drops. The air permeability of almost all the analyzed samples was close to zero with the exception of only one material. The tensile strength and elongation at the break of samples were determined on the testing machine. The paraglider samples were characterized by slightly decreased mechanical properties compared to the parachute fabrics. The material characteristics determined during the tests are the input data for the theoretical analysis. The numerical model of the paraglider wing is based on a 3D geometry from previous research, but the stress, strain, and deformation were determined using the ANSYS Structural program and the finite elements method. To determine the strength correctly, we introduce two basic values: the absolute maximal and the representative values that are the biggest repetitive values of stress, strain, and deformation. The stress value was determined by the main factors: (i) the thinner the material, the bigger the stresses that were accumulated; (ii) the stronger the material, the bigger the stresses that were accumulated. The results are similar for all materials and differ mainly by the values. The biggest stresses were observed inside the material contacting the ribs, whereas the biggest deformation and strain were in the regions between ribs, and the smallest were in the contact areas with the fixed supports. Their highest intensity was observed on the leading edge of the paraglider. We conclude that the obtained stresses were far from the breaking level for the wing.
Multifunctional Microspheres Based on D-Mannose and Resveratrol for Ciprofloxacin Release
Authors: Cassano Roberta , Curcio Federica , Procopio Debora , Fiorillo Marco , Trombino Sonia
Published: October 2022

This article describes the preparation, characterization, and performance evaluation of functional microspheres useful for the release of ciprofloxacin. The particles were obtained using D-mannose, a natural aldohexose sugar, and resveratrol, a powerful antioxidant. In particular, the above compounds were initially converted into D-mannose carboxylate and resveratrol methacrylate and, therefore, subjected to an esterification reaction. The resulting product was used for the preparation of the microspheres which were characterized by light scattering, FT-IR spectrophotometry and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Subsequently, their degree of bloating was evaluated at pH 1.2 to simulate the pH of the stomach, at pH 6.8 and pH 7.4 to mimic the intestinal environment. The antibiotic ciprofloxacin was then loaded into the microspheres, with an encapsulation efficiency of 100%. The cumulative amount of drug released was 55% at pH 6.8 and 99% at pH 7.4. The tests conducted to evaluate the antibacterial activity demonstrated the ability of the microspheres obtained to inhibit the growth of Escherichia coli. The antioxidant efficacy, due to the presence of resveratrol in their structure, was confirmed using rat liver microsomal membranes. The results obtained have highlighted how the microspheres based on D-mannose and resveratrol can be considered promising multifunctional vectors useful in the treatment of intestinal and urinary infections.
Biological Applications of Silica-Based Nanoparticles
Authors: Bruckmann Franciele da Silva , Nunes Franciane Batista , Salles Theodoro da Rosa , Franco Camila , Cadoná Francine Carla , Bohn Rhoden Cristiano Rodrigo
Published: October 2022

Silica nanoparticles have been widely explored in biomedical applications, mainly related to drug delivery and cancer treatment. These nanoparticles have excellent properties, high biocompatibility, chemical and thermal stability, and ease of functionalization. Moreover, silica is used to coat magnetic nanoparticles protecting against acid leaching and aggregation as well as increasing cytocompatibility. This review reports the recent advances of silica-based magnetic nanoparticles focusing on drug delivery, drug target systems, and their use in magnetohyperthermia and magnetic resonance imaging. Notwithstanding, the application in other biomedical fields is also reported and discussed. Finally, this work provides an overview of the challenges and perspectives related to the use of silica-based magnetic nanoparticles in the biomedical field.
Deep Margin Elevation: Current Concepts and Clinical Considerations: A Review
Authors: Aldakheel Majed , Aldosary Khalid , Alnafissah Shatha , Alaamer Rahaf , Alqahtani Anwar , Almuhtab Nora
Published: October 2022

Dietschi and Spreafico first proposed deep margin elevation (DME) in 1998 to address the multiple clinical problems associated with sub-gingival margins, where sub-gingival margins will be repositioned coronally using composite resin restorations. Given that dentistry is directing towards conservatism, its use is currently trending. Materials and Methods: a search was performed through PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar search engines to obtain relevant articles with no time restriction. Results: With biological width taken into consideration, well-defined and polished sub-gingival restorations are compatible with periodontal health. Marginal integrity in the DME technique seems to be affected by the type of adhesive, restoration, and incremental layering of the restoration. Regarding fracture resistance, DME has no significant effects. Conclusion: The DME technique seems to be a minimally invasive alternative to surgical crown lengthening (SCL) and orthodontic extrusion (OE) with respect to biological width. Well-controlled clinical trials are limited in this field; further long-term follow-up studies emphasizing the periodontal outcomes and prevention of complications are needed.
Total Productive Maintenance, Affective Commitment and Employee Retention in Apparel Production
Authors: Wickramasinghe G. L. D. , Perera M. P. A.
Published: October 2022

The success of the implementation of advanced manufacturing systems, such as total productive maintenance (TPM), depends on employee commitment and retention. This study investigated total productive maintenance (TPM) practices implemented by apparel production firms, and the effect of these practices on affective commitment (AC), and employee retention (ER) of operators on the production floor. The study adopted the survey research methodology. In total, 411 operators from apparel production firms responded to the study. The responses were analyzed using statistical methods. Four hundred and eleven responses were received for the survey and data were analyzed using statistical methods. The findings suggest that TPM practices significantly positively affect AC. Affective commitment mediates between TPM and ER. The success and sustainability of TPM implementations depend on the firm’s ability to retain trained operators and keep their AC high. The study has several implications for theory and practice.
Thermomechanical Properties of Carbon Nanocomposites PEGDA Photopolymers
Authors: Loginos Panagiotis , Patsidis Anastasios , Vrettos Katerina , Sotiriadis George , Psarras Georgios , Kostopoulos Vassilis , Georgakilas Vasilios
Published: October 2022

In this work, UV-curable resin poly (ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) was reinforced with three different types of nanofillers: pristine graphene (G), multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs), and a hybrid of MWNTs and graphene 70/30 in mass ratio (Hyb). PEGDA was mixed homogenously with the nanofiller oligomer by shear mixing and then photopolymerized, affording thin, stable films. The thermomechanical properties of the afforded nanocomposites indicated the superior reinforcing ability of pristine graphene compared with MWNTs and an intermediate behavior of the hybrid.
JNC-1043, a Novel Podophyllotoxin Derivative, Exerts Anticancer Drug and Radiosensitizer Effects in Colorectal Cancer Cells
Authors: Kwon Jin-Hee , Lee Na-Gyeong , Kang A-Ram , Ahn In-Ho , Choi In-Young , Song Jie-Young , Hwang Sang-Gu , Um Hong-Duck , Choi Jong-Ryoo , Kim Joon , Park Jong Kuk
Published: October 2022

The objective of this study was to determine whether (5S)-5-(4-benzyloxy-3,5-dimethoxy-phenyl)-5,9-dihydro-8H-furo [3’,4’:6,7] naphtho [2,3-d] [1,3]dioxol-6-one (JNC-1043), which is a novel chemical derivative of β-apopicropodophyllin, acts as a novel potential anticancer reagent and radiosensitizer in colorectal cancer (CRC) cells. Firstly, we used MTT assays to assess whether JNC-1043 could inhibit the cell proliferation of HCT116 and DLD-1 cells. The IC50 values of these cell lines were calculated as 114.5 and 157 nM, respectively, at 72 h of treatment. Using doses approximating the IC50 values, we tested whether JNC-1043 had a radiosensitizing effect in the CRC cell lines. Clonogenic assays revealed that the dose-enhancement ratios (DER) of HCT116 and DLD-1 cells were 1.53 and 1.25, respectively. Cell-counting assays showed that the combination of JNC-1043 and γ-ionizing radiation (IR) enhanced cell death. Treatment with JNC-1043 or IR alone induced cell death by 50~60%, whereas the combination of JNC-1043 and IR increased this cell death by more than 20~30%. Annexin V-propidium iodide assays showed that the combination of JNC-1043 and IR increased apoptosis by more 30~40% compared to that induced by JNC-1043 or IR alone. DCFDA- and MitoSOX-based assays revealed that mitochondrial ROS production was enhanced by the combination of JNC-1043 and IR. Finally, we found that suppression of ROS by N-acetylcysteine (NAC) blocked the apoptotic cell death induced by the combination of JNC-1043 and IR. The xenograft model also indicated that the combination of JNC-1043 and IR increased apoptotic cell death in tumor mass. These results collectively suggest that JNC-1043 acts as a radiosensitizer and exerts anticancer effects against CRC cells by promoting apoptosis mediated by mitochondrial ROS.
Qualitative Analysis Related to Palynological Characterization and Biological Evaluation of Propolis from Prespa National Park (Greece)
Authors: Pyrgioti Elisavet , Graikou Konstantia , Aligiannis Nektarios , Karabournioti Sofia , Chinou Ioanna
Published: October 2022

Propolis samples from a geographical part of northwest Greece (Prespa National Park, PNP), which is characterized as a plant endemism center and biodiversity hotspot, were characterized through pollen analysis, chemically analyzed, and biologically evaluated. The majority of the studied propolis showed typical chemical constituents (phenolic acids, flavonoids, and chalcones) of European type, while a sample of Mediterranean-type propolis (rich in diterpenes) was also identified. The palynological characterization was implemented to determine the botanical origin and to explain the chemical composition. The total phenolic content and the DPPH assay showed that the European-type propolis samples possessed strong antioxidant activity (86–91% inhibition at 200 μg/mL). Moreover, promising antibacterial activity of the extracts (MIC values 0.56–1.95 mg/mL) and moderate antifungal activity (MIC values 1.13–2.40 mg/mL) were noticed, while the sample with the highest activity had a significant content in terpenes (Mediterranean type). Propolis samples from the PNP area represent a rich source of antibacterial and antioxidant compounds and confirm the fact that propolis is a significant natural product with potential use for improving human health and stimulating the body’s defense. Finally, it is noteworthy that a significant chemical diversity was demonstrated, even in samples from a limited geographical area as this of PNP.
The Difference of Volatile Compounds in Female and Male Buds of Trichosanthes anguina L. Based on HS-SPME-GC-MS and Multivariate Statistical Analysis
Authors: Song Pingping , Xu Bo , Liu Zhenying , Cheng Yunxia , Chao Zhimao
Published: October 2022

Trichosanthes anguina L. (family Cucurbitaceae) is a monoecious and diclinous plant that can be consumed as a vegetable and has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The chemical composition and content of volatile compounds in female and male buds of T. anguina were explored by headspace solid-phase microextraction-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS) technology combined with multivariate statistical analysis. The results showed that the content of the volatile compounds was different between female and male buds. 2,2,6-trimethyl-6-vinyltetrahydro-2H-pyran-3-ol and 2,2,6-trimethyl-6-vinyldihydro-2H-pyran-3(4H)-one were the main volatile compounds in both female and male buds. Based on the multivariate statistical analysis of orthogonal projections to latent structures discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) and t-test, the content of seven compounds was significantly different between female and male buds. The content of three compounds in male buds was higher than that in female, i.e., (E)-4,8-dimethyl-1,3,7-nonatriene, 1,5,9,9-tetramethyl-1,4,7-cycloundecatriene, and (E)-caryophyllene. Conversely, the content of (Z)-4-hexen-1-ol, (Z)-3-hexenyl benzoate, (Z)-3-hexenyl salicylate, and 2-hexen-1-ol in female buds was higher than that in male buds. This is the first report on the difference in the volatile compounds between female and male buds of T. anguina, which enriches the basic research on the monoecious and diclinous plant and provides a reference for the study of plant sex differentiation.
Photons for Photography: A First Diagnostic Approach to Polaroid Emulsion Transfer on Paper in Paolo Gioli’s Artworks
Authors: Alp Zeynep , Ciccola Alessandro , Serafini Ilaria , Nucara Alessandro , Postorino Paolo , Gentili Alessandra , Curini Roberta , Favero Gabriele
Published: October 2022

The aim of this research is to study and diagnose for the first time the Polaroid emulsion transfer in the contemporary artist Paolo Gioli’s artworks to provide preliminary knowledge about the materials of his artworks and the appropriate protocols which can be applied for future studies. The spectral analysis performed followed a multi-technical approach first on the mock-up samples created following Gioli’s technique and on one original artwork of Gioli, composed by: FORS (Fiber Optics Reflectance), Raman, and FTIR (Fourier-Transform InfraRed) spectroscopies. These techniques were chosen according to their completely non-invasiveness and no requirement for sample collection. The obtained spectra from FTIR were not sufficient to assign the dyes found in the transferred Polaroid emulsion. However, they provided significant information about the cellulose-based materials. The most diagnostic results were obtained from FORS for the determination of the dye developers present in the mock-up sample which was obtained from Polacolor Type 88 and from Paolo Gioli’s original artwork created with Polacolor type 89.
Tripeptide Leu-Ser-Trp Regulates the Vascular Endothelial Cells Phenotype Switching by Mediating the Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells-Derived Small Extracellular Vesicles Packaging of miR-145
Authors: Song Tianyuan , Zhou Minzhi , Li Wen , Zheng Lin , Wu Jianping , Zhao Mouming
Published: October 2022

Tripeptide LSW, initially identified as a potent ACE inhibitory peptide from soybean protein, was recently reported to exert a protective effect against angiotensin II-induced endothelial dysfunction via extracellular vesicles (EVs). However, the molecular mechanisms, especially in lipid accumulation-induced atherosclerosis, still remain unclear. The study aimed to investigate whether the protective effects of LSW against endothelial dysfunction on vascular endothelial cells (VECs) was via vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs)-derived miRNA-145 packaged in EVs. The miRNA-145 was concentrated in EVs from LSW-treated VSMCs (LEVs), internalized into the HVUECs, and targeted the programmed cell death protein 4 (PDCD4) expression of HUVECs. Oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) was applied to induce endothelial dysfunction in HUVECs; oxLDL-induced endothelial dysfunction in HUVECs was attenuated by PDCD4 knockout or LEVs incubation. The results of this study suggested a novel function of LSW as a regulator on the functional EVs from vascular cells in the oxLDL-induced atherosclerotic model.
Cytotoxic Properties of C17 Polyacetylenes from the Fresh Roots of Panax ginseng on Human Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Cells
Authors: Kim Ranhee , Son So-Ri , Lee Na-Kyung , Kim Ji-Young , An Gami , Choi Jung-Hye , Jang Dae Sik
Published: October 2022

Although C17 polyacetylenes from Panax ginseng exhibit cytotoxic properties against various tumor cells, there have been few experiments on epithelial ovarian carcinoma cells. This study aimed to investigate the cytotoxic effects of C17 polyacetylenes from P. ginseng against ovarian cancer cell lines. Four unreported (1–4) and fifteen known (5–19) C17 polyacetylenes were obtained from the roots of P. ginseng using repeated chromatography (open column, MPLC, and preparative HPLC). The chemical structures of all the compounds were determined by analyzing their spectroscopic data (NMR, IR, and optical rotation) and HR-MS. The structures of new polyacetylenes were elucidated as (3S,8S,9R,10R)-(-)-heptadeca-9,10-epoxy-4,6-diyne-3,8-diyl diacetate (1), (3S,8S,9R,10R)-(−)-heptadeca-1-en-9,10-epoxy-4,6-diyne-3,8-diyl diacetate (2), (−)-haptadeca-9,10-epoxy-8-methoxy-4,6-diyne-3,11-diol (3), and (3R,9R,10R)-(+)-3-acetoxy-9,10-dihydroxyheptadeca-1-en-4,6-diyne (4), named ginsenoynes O, P, and Q, and 3-acetyl panaxytriol, respectively. Subsequently, in vitro experiments on A2780 and SKOV3 human epithelial ovarian carcinoma cells were performed to assess the cytotoxic properties of the isolates. Among the isolates, panaquinquecol 4 (15) exhibited the most remarkable cytotoxic effects on both human ovarian cancer cells A2780 (IC50 value of 7.60 μM) and SKOV3 (IC50 value of 27.53 μM). Therefore, C17 polyacetylenes derived from P. ginseng may warrant further investigation for their therapeutic potential in epithelial ovarian cancer.
Evaluation of DNA-Damaging Effects Induced by Different Tanning Agents Used in the Processing of Natural Leather—Pilot Study on HepG2 Cell Line
Authors: Ražić Sanja Ercegović , Kopjar Nevenka , Kašuba Vilena , Skenderi Zenun , Akalović Jadranka , Hrenović Jasna
Published: October 2022

For a long time, the production and processing of cowhide was based on the use of chrome tanning. However, the growing problem with chromium waste and its negative impact on human health and the environment prompted the search for more environmentally friendly processes such as vegetable tanning or aldehyde tanning. In the present study, we investigated the DNA-damaging effects induced in HepG2 cells after 24 h exposure to leather samples (cut into 1 × 1 cm2 rectangles) processed with different tanning agents. Our main objective was to determine which tanning procedure resulted in the highest DNA instability. The extent of treatment-induced DNA damage was determined using the alkaline comet assay. All tanning processes used in leather processing caused primary DNA damage in HepG2 cells compared to untreated cells. The effects measured in the exposed cells indicate that the leaching of potentially genotoxic chemicals from the same surface is variable and was highest after vegetable tanning, followed by synthetic tanning and chrome tanning. These results could be due to the complex composition of the vegetable and synthetic tanning agents. Despite all limitations, these preliminary results could be useful to gain a general insight into the genotoxic potential of the processes used in the processing of natural leather and to plan future experiments with more specific cell or tissue models.
Tin Oxide Based Hybrid Nanostructures for Efficient Gas Sensing
Authors: Pandit Nayeem Ahmad , Ahmad Tokeer
Published: October 2022

Tin oxide as a semiconductor metal oxide has revealed great potential in the field of gas sensing due to its porous structure and reduced size. Especially for tin oxide and its composites, inherent properties such as high surface areas and their unique semiconducting properties with tunable band gaps make them compelling for sensing applications. In combination with the general benefits of metal oxide nanomaterials, the incorporation of metal oxides into metal oxide nanoparticles is a new approach that has dramatically improved the sensing performance of these materials due to the synergistic effects. This review aims to comprehend the sensing mechanisms and the synergistic effects of tin oxide and its composites in achieving high selectivity, high sensitivity and rapid response speed which will be addressed with a full summary. The review further vehemently highlights the advances in tin oxide and its composites in the gas sensing field. Further, the structural components, structural features and surface chemistry involved in the gas sensing are also explained. In addition, this review discusses the SnO2 metal oxide and its composites and unravels the complications in achieving high selectivity, high sensitivity and rapid response speed. The review begins with the gas sensing mechanisms, which are followed by the synthesis methods. Further key results and discussions of previous studies on tin metal oxide and its composites are also discussed. Moreover, achievements in recent research on tin oxide and its composites for sensor applications are then comprehensively compiled. Finally, the challenges and scope for future developments are discussed.
Clinical Potential of Himalayan Herb Bergenia ligulata: An Evidence-Based Study
Authors: Roychoudhury Shubhadeep , Das Dipika , Das Sandipan , Jha Niraj Kumar , Pal Mahadeb , Kolesarova Adriana , Kesari Kavindra Kumar , Kalita Jogen C. , Slama Petr
Published: October 2022

Herbal products have been used in traditional systems of medicine and by ethnic healers for ages to treat various diseases. Currently, it is estimated that about 80% of people worldwide use herbal traditional medicines against various ailments, partly due to easy accessibility and low cost, and the lower side effects they pose. Bergenia ligulata, a herb ranging from the Himalayas to the foothills, including the north-eastern states of India, has traditionally been used as a remedy against various diseases, most prominently kidney stones. The medicinal properties of B. ligulata have been attributed to bergenin, its most potent bioactive component. Apart from bergenin, the other compounds available in B. ligulata are arbutin, gallic acid, protocatechuic acid, chlorogenic acid, syringic acid, catechin, ferulic acid, afzelechin, paashaanolactone, caryophyllene, 1,8-cineole, β-eudesmol, stigmasterol, β-sitosterol, parasorbic acid, 3-methyl-2-buten-1-ol, phytol, terpinen-4-ol, tannic acid, isovalaric acid, avicularin, quercetin, reynoutrin, and sitoinoside I. This review summarizes various medicinal properties of the herb, along with providing deep insight into its bioactive molecules and their potential roles in the amelioration of human ailments. Additionally, the possible mechanism(s) of action of the herb’s anti-urolithiatic, antioxidative, antipyretic, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective properties are discussed. This comprehensive documentation will help researchers to better understand the medicinal uses of the herb. Further studies on B. ligulata can lead to the discovery of new drug(s) and therapeutics for various ailments.
Scare-Away Risks: The Effects of a Serious Game on Adolescents’ Awareness of Health and Security Risks in an Italian Sample
Authors: D’Errico Francesca , Cicirelli Paolo Giovanni , Papapicco Concetta , Scardigno Rosa
Published: October 2022

Digital games can be defined as games supported by audiovisual apparatus and based on storytelling. This work aims to frame video games in the recent perspective offered by positive psychology and focuses on risk perception and on the promotion of protective behaviors in adolescent students, by means of a new Italian ad hoc created digital game named ‘Scare-away risks’ (Scacciarischi). In its storytelling, the different characters must defeat monsters that symbolically represent potential risks in home, school and work contexts. On this basis, the present study assumes that playing video games, as an engaging and motivating activity, can improve the adolescents’ psychological perception of home, school and work risks. To verify these hypotheses, a quasi-experiment comparing students who played Scacciarischi (experimental group) with a control group was conducted. At the end of the game, a questionnaire was administered to 149 participants, balanced for gender, investigating (a) the level of engagement during the game, (b) the perceived risks, (c) the locus of control, (d) the protective behavior intentions. The results showed that playing Scacciarischi is related to higher levels of engagement, internal locus of control, risk perception and protective behavioral intentions. In addition, both engagement and internal locus of control act as precursors of the other two variables. Finally, reflections about the importance of the engaging experience of Scacciarischi in the domain of safety, prevention and health issues are proposed.
Time of Dietary Energy and Nutrient Intake and Body Mass Index in Children: Compositional Data Analysis from the Childhood Obesity Project (CHOP) Trial
Authors: Jaeger Vanessa , Koletzko Berthold , Luque Veronica , Gispert-Llauradó Mariona , Gruszfeld Dariusz , Socha Piotr , Verduci Elvira , Zuccotti Gian Vincenzo , Etienne Louise , Grote Veit
Published: October 2022

Meal timing is suggested to influence the obesity risk in children. Our aim was to analyse the effect of energy and nutrient distributions at eating occasions (EO), including breakfast, lunch, supper, and snacks, on the BMI z-score (zBMI) during childhood in 729 healthy children. BMI and three-day dietary protocols were obtained at 3, 4, 5, 6, and 8 years of age, and dietary data were analysed as the percentage of the mean total energy intake (TEI; %E). Intakes at EOs were transformed via an isometric log–ratio transformation and added as exposure variables to linear mixed-effects models. Stratified analyses by country and recategorization of EOs by adding intake from snacks to respective meals for further analyses were performed. The exclusion of subjects with less than three observations and the exclusion of subjects who skipped one EO or consumed 5% energy or less at one EO were examined in sensitivity analyses. Around 23% of the children were overweight at a given time point. Overweight and normal-weight children showed different distributions of dietary intakes over the day; overweight children consumed higher intakes at lunch and lower intakes of snacks. However, no significant effects of timing of EOs on zBMI were found in regression analyses.
Association between Four Dietary Patterns and the Risk of Periodontal Diseases: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Jeong Jaehun , Kim Hyung-Sik , Lee Dongjun , Kim Kihun , Kim Yun-Hak
Published: October 2022

Background: Several dietary patterns are reported as risk factors for several chronic diseases including oral diseases. However, thus far, there has been no comprehensive quantitative analysis of nutrition and periodontal diseases. Methods: This systematic review was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines. Cohort, case–control, and cross-sectional studies were eligible for inclusion in this study. The Newcastle–Ottawa scale was used to qualitatively assess the risk of bias in the included studies. The number of samples was used for odds ratio calculation, followed by the unadjusted value and 95% confidence interval. Results: Nine papers were included for the systematic review and meta-analysis. The results of screening for database search records showed that four diet patterns (western diet, dairy product intake, sugar intake, and vitamin C intake) have enough data for meta-analysis. The risk of periodontal disease in the western-diet group and the lowest dairy product intake group was 1.05 (0.51–2.13) and 1.28 (0.89–1.84), respectively. The risk of periodontal disease in the highest sugar intake group and the lowest vitamin C intake group was 1.52 (0.79–2.91) and 1.15 (1.08–1.23), respectively. Conclusions: With aging of the population globally, the prevalence of periodontal disease increases, and the associated cost also increases. Though this study, we found foods related to the risk of periodontal disease, and we are confident that it will contribute to lowering the incidence of the disease.
Association between Branched-Chain Amino Acid Intake and Physical Function among Chinese Community-Dwelling Elderly Residents
Authors: Liao Minqi , Mu Yingjun , Su Xin , Zheng Lu , Zhang Shiwen , Chen Hongen , Xu Shan , Ma Junrong , Ouyang Ruiqing , Li Wanlin , Cheng Chen , Cai Jun , Chen Yuming , Wang Changyi , Zeng Fangfang
Published: October 2022

This study aimed to evaluate the potential associations of dietary BCAAs (isoleucine, leucine, and valine) with physical function in the elderly Chinese population. A validated semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire and anthropometric and physical function measurements were used to collect data. We modeled trends in physical function indicators for BCAA quartiles using multivariate linear regression models. Among 4336 (43.97% men) participants aged 72.73 ± 5.48 years, a higher dietary intake of BCAAs was positively associated with increased handgrip strength (all p trends < 0.001), shorter times for 4-m fast walking (all p trends < 0.001) and repeated chair rises (all p trends < 0.001). No linear association was found between subtypes of amino acids and any physical functions (all p trends > 0.05). Individuals in the highest quartiles of BCAA intake had a reduced risk of developing low muscle strength, and the multiadjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for women and men were 0.50 (0.38–0.65) and 0.67 (0.50–0.91), respectively. Similarly, higher BCAA consumption was associated with a lower risk of developing low physical performance (4-m walking speed: OR = 0.68 [0.50–0.93]; repeated chair rises: OR = 0.66 [0.54–0.81]). Higher dietary BCAA intake might be beneficial for physical function in the elderly population.
Clothes That Make the Man: Understanding How the Extended Self Is Formed, Expressed and Negotiated by Male Tablighi Jamaat Adherents
Authors: Rauf Ateeq Abdul
Published: October 2022

Deviating from the predominantly women-focused investigations on Islamic clothing in anthropology, religion and consumer studies, this research places men’s Islamic clothing under the spotlight to understand how the notion of the extended self is evidenced in a religious context. Using a multi-sited ethnographic and in-depth interview approach to study the context of middle-class Pakistani male participants of the traditional revivalist movement the Tablighi Jamaat, this study finds that possessions such as clothing serve as a conduit to participants’ sense of extended self. In this case, the extended self is associated with the Muslim nation, its Prophet and his work. This investigation furthers the concept of the extended self by implicating the consumption of religiously identified clothing as an entity that becomes associated with the self. Moreover, this study concludes that possessions and the extended self are imbricated into one’s religious career path.
Estimating Soil Organic Matter Content in Desert Areas Using In Situ Hyperspectral Data and Feature Variable Selection Algorithms in Southern Xinjiang, China
Authors: Yang Peimin , Hu Jie , Hu Bifeng , Luo Defang , Peng Jie
Published: October 2022

Soil organic matter (SOM) is a key factor for evaluating soil fertility. Rapidly monitoring organic matter content in desert soil can provide a scientific basis for the rational development and utilization of reserve arable land resources. Although spectral inversion accuracy for SOM under laboratory-controlled conditions is high, it is time-consuming and costly compared to the in situ spectroscopic determination method. However, in situ spectroscopy causes losses in accuracy due to interference from external environmental factors (e.g., the surface roughness of soil, changes in weather conditions, atmospheric water vapor, etc.). Therefore, reducing or removing the interference of external environmental factors to improve the accuracy of in situ spectroscopy for estimating SOM is challenging. In this study, visible and near-infrared (Vis-NIR) in situ spectral data were collected from 135 topsoil (0–20 cm) samples in a desert area of northwestern China, and organic matter content was measured. Three spectral pre-processing methods—the standard normal transform (SNV), reciprocal logarithm (log(1/R)) and normalization (NOR)—combined with three feature variable selection methods—the particle swarm algorithm (PSO), ant colony algorithm (ACO) and simulated annealing (SA) algorithm—were used to filter the spectral feature bands of SOM, and then partial least squares regression (PLSR), a back propagation neural network (BPNN) and a convolutional neural network (CNN) were used to construct the estimation models of SOM. The results indicated that the SNV could enhance the spectral information related to SOM and improve the accuracy of model estimation, and it was one of the most effective spectral pretreatment methods. Compared with the model constructed with the full-band spectroscopy method, the feature variable selection method could effectively improve the estimation accuracy of the Vis-NIR in situ spectroscopy model. The most obvious improvement was found with PSO, where R2 and RPD were improved by more than 0.34 and 0.16, respectively, and RMSE was reduced by more than 0.29 g kg−1. The accuracy of the CNN model was higher than that of the BPNN and PLSR models, both for the inversion model of SOM built from full-band spectral data and the bands selected by the characteristic variable selection method. SNV-PSO-CNN is the optimal hybrid model for in situ spectral measurement of SOM (R2 = 0.71, RPD = 1.88, RMSE = 1.67 g kg−1) and can realize the quantitative in situ spectral inversion of SOM in desert soils.
Cobalt Biosorption in Fixed-Bed Column Using Greenhouse Crop Residue as Natural Sorbent
Authors: Blázquez Gabriel , Martín-Lara María Ángeles , Iáñez-Rodríguez Irene , Morales Inés , Pérez Antonio , Calero Mónica
Published: October 2022

Intensive greenhouse agriculture annually produces large amounts of residues. The present work focused on the study of the dynamic adsorption of cobalt from aqueous solutions over a vegetal residue from intensive greenhouse cultivation. The influence of three operating variables, feed-flow rate, inlet concentration of cobalt and bed height, was analyzed. According to the results, the variable that particularly affected the percentage of cobalt adsorbed was the feed-flow rate. The results were also fitted to an adaptive neuro fuzzy system (ANFIS) model to predict cobalt adsorption from aqueous solutions and choose the most favorable operating conditions. Results were evaluated using root mean squared error (RMSE), coefficient of determination (R2) and other typical statistic factors as performance parameters. The experimental and model outputs displayed acceptable result for ANFIS, providing R2 values higher than 0.999 for both cobalt removal (%) and biosorption capacity (mg/g). In addition, the results showed that the best operating conditions to maximize the removal of cobalt were 4 mL/min of feed-flow rate, 25 mg/L of inlet concentration and 11.5 cm of bed-height.
To Be, or Not to Be: The Role of Self-Perception in European Countries’ Performance Assessment
Authors: Casagrande Sara , Dallago Bruno
Published: October 2022

Performance evaluation is commonly based on objective indicators which do not explicitly consider the role of perceptions. Especially when evaluating countries’ performance, citizens’ perceptions can influence public debate and socio-economic narratives. Since these may influence policy making and countries’ performance, perceptions should not be ignored. The objective of this article is to investigate the presence of discrepancies between objective performance and self-perception (subjective performance) among European Union countries. The aim is to raise awareness of the importance of recognizing biases in performance perception as factors that may hamper European debate, countries’ relations and, thus, the political and social sustainability of the European project. The article considers five spending areas that may influence the public opinion’s assessment about countries’ performance (education, environmental protection, health, public order and safety and social protection) and compares objective and subjective indicators for 28 EU countries from 2007 to 2017 using the distance-to-frontier score methodology. The results indicate that the discrepancies are significant, with a generalized tendency toward overestimation, especially among some Central and Northern European countries. The opposite occurred in Greece and some Eastern European countries. These results represent a starting point for grasping an undervalued aspect of the complexity of the European socio-economic environment.
Nutritional Characterization and Novel Use of “Copafam” Bean (Phaseolus coccineus L.) for the Sustainable Development of Mountains Areas
Authors: Pedrali Davide , Proserpio Cristina , Borgonovi Sara Margherita , Zuccolo Marco , Leoni Valeria , Borgonovo Gigliola , Bernardi Alessia Maria , Scarafoni Alessio , Pagliarini Ella , Giorgi Annamaria , Giupponi Luca
Published: October 2022

Agrobiodiversity conservation includes strategies and actions to be taken to prevent landrace loss, a worldwide problem. Landraces are local varieties that have agricultural, cultural, and historical value but most of these are not studied yet. This research aimed to study the nutritional and phytochemical characteristics of the “Copafam” bean. In addition, the sensory properties and consumers’ hedonic ratings in a model food formulation (biscuits) made by this landrace have been examined. The results show that “Copafam” had a high dietary fiber content (34.83 ± 2.48 g/100 g dw) and it resulted in a great source of secondary metabolites as polyphenols (121.36 ± 5.31 mg GAE/g dw), flavonoids (6.51 ± 0.17 mg/kg dw), and anthocyanins (28.11 ± 0.16 mg Cy3 G/kg dw), having remarkable antioxidant activity too. Biscuits made from “Copafam” bean flour were characterized by a darker color and crunchy texture, and it was considered acceptable by consumers. All these characteristics make it a resource of great interest for innovative forms of consumption like fortified foods. This research showed that landraces can represent a great resource for an innovative food industry aiming to preserve agrobiodiversity and promote the sustainable development of mountain areas.