bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Exosome-Mediated PI3K/Akt/mTOR Signaling Pathway in Neurological Diseases
Authors: Iranpanah Amin , Kooshki Leila , Moradi Seyed Zachariah , Saso Luciano , Fakhri Sajad , Khan Haroon
Published: March 2023

As major public health concerns associated with a rapidly growing aging population, neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) and neurological diseases are important causes of disability and mortality. Neurological diseases affect millions of people worldwide. Recent studies have indicated that apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress are the main players of NDDs and have critical roles in neurodegenerative processes. During the aforementioned inflammatory/apoptotic/oxidative stress procedures, the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway plays a crucial role. Considering the functional and structural aspects of the blood–brain barrier, drug delivery to the central nervous system is relatively challenging. Exosomes are nanoscale membrane-bound carriers that can be secreted by cells and carry several cargoes, including proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, and metabolites. Exosomes significantly take part in the intercellular communications due to their specific features including low immunogenicity, flexibility, and great tissue/cell penetration capabilities. Due to their ability to cross the blood–brain barrier, these nano-sized structures have been introduced as proper vehicles for central nervous system drug delivery by multiple studies. In the present systematic review, we highlight the potential therapeutic effects of exosomes in the context of NDDs and neurological diseases by targeting the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway.
Drug Delivery Strategies for Avobenzone: A Case Study of Photostabilization
Authors: Gholap Amol D. , Sayyad Sadikali F. , Hatvate Navnath T. , Dhumal Vilas V. , Pardeshi Sagar R. , Chavda Vivek P. , Vora Lalitkumar K.
Published: March 2023

Several developments and research methods are ongoing in drug technology and chemistry research to elicit effectiveness regarding the therapeutic activity of drugs along with photoprotection for their molecular integrity. The detrimental effect of UV light induces damaged cells and DNA, which leads to skin cancer and other phototoxic effects. The application of sunscreen shields to the skin is important, along with recommended UV filters. Avobenzone is widely used as a UVA filter for skin photoprotection in sunscreen formulations. However, keto-enol tautomerism propagates photodegradation into it, which further channelizes the phototoxic and photoirradiation effects, further limiting its use. Several approaches have been used to counter these issues, including encapsulation, antioxidants, photostabilizers, and quenchers. To seek the gold standard approach for photoprotection in photosensitive drugs, combinations of strategies have been implemented to identify effective and safe sunscreen agents. The stringent regulatory guidelines for sunscreen formulations, along with the availability of limited FDA-approved UV filters, have led many researchers to develop perfect photostabilization strategies for available photostable UV filters, such as avobenzone. From this perspective, the objective of the current review is to summarize the recent literature on drug delivery strategies implemented for the photostabilization of avobenzone that could be useful to frame industrially oriented potential strategies on a large scale to circumvent all possible photounstable issues of avobenzone.
Facile Synthesis, Characterization, and Photocatalytic Performance of BiOF/BiFeO3 Hybrid Heterojunction for Benzylamine Coupling under Simulated Light Irradiation
Authors: Abdelhamid Abdalla S. , Alzard Reem H. , Siddig Lamia A. , Elbahnasy Aya , Aljazmati Duha , Kadoura Zaina , Zeidane Hind , Elshikh Rufaida , Alzamly Ahmed
Published: March 2023

Under simulated light irradiation, the aerobic oxidation of benzylamine to N,N-benzylidenebenzylamine was carried out as a model reaction to investigate the photocatalytic activity of a hydrothermally prepared composite based on BiOF and BiFeO3 materials. The prepared photocatalysts were characterized using several spectroscopic techniques, such as powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Band gap analysis showed that the composite exhibits a band gap that lies in the UV region (3.5 eV). Nonetheless, pristine BiOF and BiFeO3 exhibited band gaps of 3.8 eV and 2.15 eV, respectively. N,N-benzylidenebenzylamine was selectively achieved with a high conversion yield of ~80% under atmospheric conditions in which the product was confirmed using 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, and FTIR spectroscopic techniques. Various control experiments were conducted to further confirm the enhanced photocatalytic performance of the reported composite.
Extra-High Pressure in the Core of Silica-Based Optical Fiber Preforms during the Manufacturing Process
Authors: Bufetova Galina , Kosolapov Alexey , Yashkov Mikhail , Umnikov Andrey , Velmiskin Vladimir , Tsvetkov Vladimir , Bufetov Igor
Published: March 2023

The core refractive index n2 of silica-based optical fiber preform heated to 2000 °C was determined experimentally for the first time. The measurements were carried out in the process of preform temperature reduction. It was shown that n2 could increase up to ~1.75 in the visible spectral range at temperatures of ~2000 °C (n2 ≈ 1.46 at room temperature). This fact suggests that pressures close to or exceeding the ultimate strength of silica glass (~20 GPa) occur in the preform core region. The local extra pressure is argued to be a possible cause of the well-known “starburst” phenomenon at the core–cladding interface of preforms with certain core compositions. The observed effect of radial cracks can be interpreted as the result of silica cladding destruction under the action of extra-high pressure in the core.
Impact of Polyploidy Induction for Salinity Stress Mitigation in Soybean (Glycine max L. Merrill)
Authors: Mangena Phetole
Published: March 2023

Polyploidy induction is recognized as one of the major evolutionary processes leading to remarkable morphological, physiological, and genetic variations in plants. Soybean (Glycine max L.), also known as soja bean or soya bean, is an annual leguminous crop of the pea family (Fabaceae) that shares a paleopolypoidy history, dating back to approximately 56.5 million years ago with other leguminous crops such as cowpea and other Glycine specific polyploids. This crop has been documented as one of the polyploid complex species among legumes whose gene evolution and resultant adaptive growth characteristics following induced polyploidization has not been fully explored. Furthermore, no successfully established in vivo or in vitro based polyploidy induction protocols have been reported to date, particularly, with the intention to develop mutant plants showing strong resistance to abiotic salinity stress. This review, therefore, describes the role of synthetic polyploid plant production in soybean for the mitigation of high soil salt stress levels and how this evolving approach could be used to further enhance the nutritional, pharmaceutical and economic industrial value of soybeans. This review also addresses the challenges involved during the polyploidization process.
An Insight into the Biology of the Rare and Peculiar Moss Pterygoneurum sibiricum (Pottiaceae): A Conservation Physiology Approach
Authors: Jadranin Bojana Z. , Ćosić Marija V. , Božović Djordje P. , Vujičić Milorad M. , Ignatov Michael S. , Ignatova Elena A. , Sabovljević Aneta D. , Sabovljević Marko S.
Published: March 2023

The biological features of the recently described peculiar and rare pottioid moss species Pterygoneurum sibiricum have been studied. A conservation physiology approach through in vitro axenic establishment and laboratory-controlled tests was applied to learn more about its development, physiology, and ecology. Additionally, ex situ collection for this species was established, and a micropropagation methodology was developed. The results obtained clearly document its reaction to salt stress in contrast to its sibling bryo-halophyte species P. kozlovii. The reaction to exogenously applied plant growth regulators, auxin and cytokinin, can be used in the different moss propagation phases of this species or for target structure production and development. Inference to the poorly known ecology of this species should also help in recent species records, and thus improve knowledge about its distribution and conservation.
Efficacy of Azadirachtin in the Integrated Management of the Root Knot Nematode Meloidogyne incognita on Short- and Long-Cycle Crops
Authors: d’Errico Giada , Sasanelli Nicola , Guastamacchia Francesco , Stillittano Virgilio , D’Addabbo Trifone
Published: March 2023

Activity of azadirachtin on phytoparasitic nematodes has been documented for some decades, but the relationship between its nematicidal efficacy and crop cycle length has not yet been clarified. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of an azadirachtin-based nematicide, for controlling the infestation of the root-knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita, on the short- and long-cycle crops, lettuce and tomato, respectively. Experiments on lettuce and tomato were carried out in a greenhouse infested by M. incognita, including non-treated soil, or treated with the nematicide fluopyram, as controls. In the experiment on the short-cycle lettuce crop, the azadirachtin product effectively suppressed M. incognita infestation and increased crop yield, without significant differences from fluopyram. In the tomato crop, both azadirachtin and fluopyram were not able to control nematode infestation, but resulted in significantly higher yields. Data from this study indicated that azadirachtin can be a valid alternative to fluopyram and other nematicides, for root-knot nematode control in short-cycle crops. Integration of azadirachtin with a synthetic nematicide or nematode-suppressive agronomical techniques, should be more suitable to long-cycle crops.
Marker-Assisted Improvement for Durable Bacterial Blight Resistance in Aromatic Rice Cultivar HUR 917 Popular in Eastern Parts of India
Authors: Kumar Manish , Singh Ravi Pratap , Jena Debarchana , Singh Vineeta , Rout Diptibala , Arsode Panduranga Bhagwan , Choudhary Madhu , Singh Prakash , Chahar Suman , Samantaray Sanghamitra , Mukherjee Arup Kumar , Mohan Chander , Bohra Abhishek , Das Goutam , Balo Sumana , Singh Onkar Nath , Verma Ramlakhan
Published: March 2023

Bacterial blight (BB) is a devastating disease of rice in the tropics of Indian sub-continent, where the presence of Xoo races with varying levels of genetic diversity and virulence renders disease management extremely challenging. In this context, marker-assisted improvement of plant resistance has been proven as one of the most promising approaches for the development of sustainable rice cultivars. The present study demonstrates the marker-assisted introgression of the three BB resistant genes (Xa21 + xa13 + xa5) into the background of HUR 917, a popular aromatic short grain (ASG) rice cultivar in India. The performance of the resulting improved products (near isogenic lines (NILs), HR 23-5-37-83-5, HR 23-5-37-121-10, HR 23-5-37-121-14, HR 23-65-6-191-13, HR 23-65-6-237-2, HR 23-65-6-258-10 and HR 23-65-6-258-21) establishes the utility of marker-assisted selection (MAS) approach for accelerated trait introgression in rice. The MAS-bred lines carrying three introgressed genes showed broad spectrum BB resistance (lesion length, LL of 1.06 ± 1.35 cm to 4.61 ± 0.87 cm). Besides, these improved lines showed the complete product profile of recurrent parent HUR 917 along with the enhanced level of durable BB resistance. The improved introgression lines with durable BB resistance would contribute to sustainable rice production in India, particularly in the Indo-Gangetic plane that has substantial acreage under HUR 917.
Nootropic Herbs, Shrubs, and Trees as Potential Cognitive Enhancers
Authors: Malík Matěj , Tlustoš Pavel
Published: March 2023

Plant-based nootropics are a diverse group of natural drugs that can improve cognitive abilities through various physiological mechanisms, especially in cases where these functions are weakened or impaired. In many cases, the nootropics enhance erythrocyte plasticity and inhibit aggregation, which improves the blood’s rheological properties and increases its flow to the brain. Many of these formulations possess antioxidant activity that protects brain tissue from neurotoxicity and improves the brain’s oxygen supply. They can induce the synthesis of neuronal proteins, nucleic acids, and phospholipids for constructing and repairing neurohormonal membranes. These natural compounds can potentially be present in a great variety of herbs, shrubs, and even some trees and vines. The plant species reviewed here were selected based on the availability of verifiable experimental data and clinical trials investigating potential nootropic effects. Original research articles, relevant animal studies, meta-analyses, systematic reviews, and clinical trials were included in this review. Selected representatives of this heterogeneous group included Bacopa monnieri (L.) Wettst., Centella asiatica (L.) Urban, Eleutherococcus senticosus (Rupr. & Maxim.) Maxim., Ginkgo biloba L., Lepidium meyenii Walp., Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer, Paullinia cupana Kunth, Rhodiola rosea L., Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill., and Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal. The species are depicted and described, together with their active components and nootropic effects, and evidence of their efficacy is presented. The study provides brief descriptions of the representative species, their occurrence, history, and the chemical composition of the principle medicinal compounds, with uses, indications, experimental treatments, dosages, possible side effects, and contraindications. Most plant nootropics must be taken at optimal doses for extended periods before measurable improvement occurs, but they are generally very well tolerated. Their psychoactive properties are not produced by a single molecule but by a synergistic combination of several compounds. The available data suggest that including extracts from these plants in medicinal products to treat cognitive disorders can have substantial potential therapeutic benefits.
Effects of Steam and Water Blanching on Drying Characteristics, Water Distribution, Microstructure, and Bioactive Components of Gastrodia Elata
Authors: Xie Yong-Kang , Li Xing-Yi , Chen Chang , Zhang Wei-Peng , Yu Xian-Long , Xiao Hong-Wei , Lu Feng-Yin
Published: March 2023

In the current work, the effects of steam and boiling water blanching on the drying characteristics, water distribution, microstructure, and contents of bioactive substances of Gastrodia elata (G. elata) were explored. Results showed that the degree of steaming and blanching was related to the core temperature of G. elata. The steaming and blanching pretreatment increased the drying time of the samples by more than 50%. The low-field nuclear magnetic resonance (LF-NMR) of treated samples showed that the relaxation time corresponded to water molecule states (bound, immobilized, and free) and G. elata became shorter, which indicated a reduction in free moisture and increased resistance of water diffusion in the solid structure during drying. Hydrolysis of polysaccharides and gelatinization of starch granules was observed in the microstructure of treated samples, which was consistent with changes in water status and drying rates. Steaming and blanching increased gastrodin and crude polysaccharide contents and decreased p-hydroxybenzyl alcohol content. These findings will contribute to a better understanding of the effect of steaming and blanching on the drying behavior and quality attributes of G. elata.
The Current and Potential Distribution of Parthenium Weed and Its Biological Control Agent in Pakistan
Authors: Shabbir Asad , Zalucki Myron P. , Dhileepan Kunjithapatham , Khan Naeem , Adkins Steve W.
Published: March 2023

Parthenium hysterophorus L. (Asteraceae), commonly known as parthenium weed, is a highly invasive weed spreading rapidly from northern to southern parts of Pakistan. The persistence of parthenium weed in the hot and dry southern districts suggests that the weed can survive under more extreme conditions than previously thought. The development of a CLIMEX distribution model, which considered this increased tolerance to drier and warmer conditions, predicted that the weed could still spread to many other parts of Pakistan as well as to other regions of south Asia. This CLIMEX model satisfied the present distribution of parthenium weed within Pakistan. When an irrigation scenario was added to the CLIMEX program, more parts of the southern districts of Pakistan (Indus River basin) became suitable for parthenium weed growth, as well as the growth of its biological control agent, Zygogramma bicolorata Pallister. This expansion from the initially predicted range was due to irrigation producing extra moisture to support its establishment. In addition to the weed moving south in Pakistan due to irrigation, it will also move north due to temperature increases. The CLIMEX model indicated that there are many more areas within South Asia that are suitable for parthenium weed growth, both under the present and a future climate scenario. Most of the south-western and north-eastern parts of Afghanistan are suitable under the current climate, but more areas are likely to become suitable under climate change scenarios. Under climate change, the suitability of southern parts of Pakistan is likely to decrease.
In Situ Synthesis of Environmentally Friendly Waterborne Polyurethane Extended with Regenerated Cellulose Nanoparticles for Enhanced Mechanical Performances
Authors: Choi Soon Mo , Lee Soo Young , Lee Sunhee , Han Sung Soo , Shin Eun Joo
Published: March 2023

The development of waterborne polyurethane (WPU) has been stimulated as an alternative to solvent-based polyurethanes due to low-VOC alternatives and reduced exposure to solvents. However, their relatively low mechanical performance and degradation have presented challenges in their wide application. Here, we developed environmentally-friendly bio polyol-based WPU nanocomposite dispersions and films, and presented the optimal process conditions for their manufacture. Additionally, the condition was established without using harmful catalysts or ethyl methyl ketone (MEK) during the polymerization. Moreover, regenerated cellulose nanoparticles (RCNs) were employed as natural chain-extenders in order to improve the biodegradability and mechanical performances of the nanocomposite films. The RCNs have a lower crystallinity compared to cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs), allowing them to possess high toughness without interfering with the elastomeric properties of polyurethane. The prepared CWPU/RCNs nanocomposite films exhibited high toughness of 58.8 ± 3 kgf∙mm and elongation at break of 240 ± 20%. In addition, depending on the molar ratio of NCO/OH, the polyurethane particle size is variously controlled from 70 to 230 nm, enabling to fabricate their dispersions with various transmittances. We believe that our findings not only open a meaningful path toward green elastomers with biodegradability but provides the design concept for bio-elastomers in order to develop industrial elastomers with mechanical and thermal properties.
Silver-Nanowire-Based Elastic Conductors: Preparation Processes and Substrate Adhesion
Authors: Yu Kai , He Tian
Published: March 2023

The production of flexible electronic systems includes stretchable electrical interconnections and flexible electronic components, promoting the research and development of flexible conductors and stretchable conductive materials with large bending deformation or torsion resistance. Silver nanowires have the advantages of high conductivity, good transparency and flexibility in the development of flexible electronic products. In order to further prepare system-level flexible systems (such as autonomous full-software robots, etc.), it is necessary to focus on the conductivity of the system’s composite conductor and the robustness of the system at the physical level. In terms of conductor preparation processes and substrate adhesion strategies, the more commonly used solutions are selected. Four kinds of elastic preparation processes (pretensioned/geometrically topological matrix, conductive fiber, aerogel composite, mixed percolation dopant) and five kinds of processes (coating, embedding, changing surface energy, chemical bond and force, adjusting tension and diffusion) to enhance the adhesion of composite conductors using silver nanowires as current-carrying channel substrates were reviewed. It is recommended to use the preparation process of mixed percolation doping and the adhesion mode of embedding/chemical bonding under non-special conditions. Developments in 3D printing and soft robots are also discussed.
The Hypervelocity Impact Behavior and Energy Absorption Evaluation of Fabric
Authors: Xu Huadong , Yu Dong , Cui Jiaxin , Shi Zhixin , Song Di , Miao Changqing
Published: March 2023

In this work, the mechanical behavior and energy absorption characteristics of flexible fabric under hypervelocity impact (HVI) were investigated. Basalt fabric, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fabric, and aluminum alloy (Al) plate were chosen to be the sample materials for their excellent mechanical properties and applicative prospect in spacecraft shielding. HVI experiments had been conducted with the help of a two-stage light-gas gun facility, wherein Al projectile with 3.97 mm diameter was launched at velocities in the range 4.1~4.3 km/s. Impact conditions and areal density were kept constant for all targets. The microstructural damage morphology of fiber post-impact was characterized using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Analysis results show that a brittle fracture occurred for Basalt fiber during HVI. On the contrary, the ductile fractures with large-scale plastic deformation and apparent thermal softening/melting of the material had happened on the UHMWPE fiber when subjected to a projectile impact. According to the HVI shielding performance and microstructural damage analysis results, it can be inferred that ductile fractures and thermal softening/melting of the material were the prevailing energy absorption behaviors of UHMWPE fabric, which leads to absorbing more impact energy than Basalt fabric and eventually, contributes the superior shielding performance.
Processing, Characterization and Disintegration Properties of Biopolymers Based on Mater-Bi® and Ellagic Acid/Chitosan Coating
Authors: Villegas Carolina , Martínez Sara , Torres Alejandra , Rojas Adrián , Araya Rocío , Guarda Abel , Galotto María José
Published: March 2023

Among the most promising synthetic biopolymers to replace conventional plastics in numerous applications is MaterBi® (MB), a commercial biodegradable polymer based on modified starch and synthetic polymers. Actually, MB has important commercial applications as it shows interesting mechanical properties, thermal stability, processability and biodegradability. On the other hand, research has also focused on the incorporation of natural, efficient and low-cost active compounds into various materials with the aim of incorporating antimicrobial and/or antioxidant capacities into matrix polymers to extend the shelf life of foods. Among these is ellagic acid (EA), a polyphenolic compound abundant in some fruits, nuts and seeds, but also in agroforestry and industrial residues, which seems to be a promising biomolecule with interesting biological activities, including antioxidant activity, antibacterial activity and UV-barrier properties. The objective of this research is to develop a film based on commercial biopolymer Mater-Bi® (MB) EF51L, incorporating active coating from chitosan with a natural active compound (EA) at two concentrations (2.5 and 5 wt.%). The formulations obtained complete characterization and were carried out in order to evaluate whether the incorporation of the coating significantly affects thermal, mechanical, structural, water-vapor barrier and disintegration properties. From the results, FTIR analysis yielded identification, through characteristic peaks, that the type of MB used is constituted by three polymers, namely PLA, TPS and PBAT. With respect to the mechanical properties, the values of tensile modulus and tensile strength of the MB-CHI film were between 15 and 23% lower than the values obtained for the MB film. The addition of 2.5 wt.% EA to the CHI layer did not generate changes in the mechanical properties of the system, whereas a 5 wt.% increase in ellagic acid improved the mechanical properties of the CHI film through the addition of natural phenolic compounds at high concentrations. Finally, the disintegration process was mainly affected by the PBAT biopolymer, causing the material to not disintegrate within the times indicated by ISO 20200.
Arundo donax L Processing in Catalyzed Butanol–Water Media in the Scope of Lignocellulose Biorefineries
Authors: Rivas Sandra , Baldassari Rebecca , Parajó Juan Carlos , Raspolli Galletti Anna M.
Published: March 2023

Arundo donax L samples, before or after aqueous extraction to remove extractives, were subjected to chemical fractionation in H2SO4-catalyzed mixtures of 1-butanol and water. The partial miscibility of 1-butanol and water at room temperature allowed the separation of the three major feedstock components in separate streams (lignin, accumulated in the 1-butanol-rich phase; hemicellulose-derived products, accumulated in the aqueous acidic phase; and cellulose, present in the solid phase). The effects of selected variables (temperature, catalyst concentration, reaction time and 1-butanol content of the reaction media) on variables measuring the solid recovery yield and the compositions of phases from fractionation were measured. Using water-extracted A. donax L as a substrate, the best operational conditions enabled 93.2% hemicellulose removal and 85.4% delignification with limited cellulose solubilization (15%). The experimental results provided key information to assess the proposed process in the scope of biorefineries.
Investigation of Fumasep® FAA3-50 Membranes in Alkaline Direct Methanol Fuel Cells
Authors: Lo Vecchio Carmelo , Carbone Alessandra , Gatto Irene , Baglio Vincenzo
Published: March 2023

This paper describes the use of a commercial Fumasep® FAA3-50 membrane as an anion exchange membrane (AEM) in alkaline direct methanol fuel cells (ADMFCs). The membrane, supplied in bromide form, is first exchanged in chloride and successively in the hydroxide form. Anionic conductivity measurements are carried out in both a KOH aqueous solution and in a KOH/methanol mixture. AEM-DMFC tests are performed by feeding 1 M methanol, with or without 1 M KOH as a supporting electrolyte. A maximum power density of 5.2 mW cm−2 at 60 °C and 33.2 mW cm−2 at 80 °C is reached in KOH-free feeding and in the alkaline mixture, respectively. These values are in good agreement with some results in the literature obtained with similar experimental conditions but with different anion exchange membranes (AEMs). Finally, methanol crossover is investigated and corresponds to a maximum value of 1.45 × 10−8 mol s−1 cm−2 at 50 °C in a 1 M KOH methanol solution, thus indicating that the Fumasep® FAA3-50 membrane in OH form is a good candidate for ADMFC application.
Assessment and Optimization of Thermal Stability and Water Absorption of Loading Snail Shell Nanoparticles and Sugarcane Bagasse Cellulose Fibers on Polylactic Acid Bioplastic Films
Authors: Gbadeyan Oluwatoyin J. , Linganiso Linda Z. , Deenadayalu Nirmala
Published: March 2023

The optimization and modeling of the parameters, the concentration of polylactic acid (PLA), sugarcane bagasse cellulose fibers (SBCF), and snail shell nanoparticles (SSNP), were investigated for the development of bioplastic films. With the aid of the Box–Behnken experimental design, response surface methodology was used to assess the consequence of the parameters on the water absorption and thermal stability of fabricated bioplastic films. Varied water absorption and thermal stability with different component loading were obtained, evidencing the loading effect of snail shell nanoparticles and sugar bagasse cellulose fibers on bioplastic film’s water absorption and thermal stability. The quadratic polynomial model experiment data offered a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.8422 for water absorption and 0.8318 for thermal stability, verifying the models’ fitness to develop optimal concentration. The predicted optimal parameters were polylactic acid (99.815%), sugarcane bagasse cellulose fibers (0.036%), and snail shell nanoparticles (0.634%). The bioplastic developed with optimized concentrations of each component exhibited water absorption and thermal stability of 0.45% and 259.7 °C, respectively. The FTIR curves of bioplastic films show oxygen stretching in-plane carbon and single-bonded hydroxyl bending in the carboxylic acids functional group. SEM and TEM images of the bioplastic showed dispersion of the nanoparticles in the matrix, where SSNP is more visible than SBCF, which may be due to the lesser loading of SBCF. The improved properties suggest an optimum concentration of naturally sourced resources for developing bioplastic, which may be used for food and drug packaging for delivery.
Investigation of Fracturing Fluid Flowback in Hydraulically Fractured Formations Based on Microscopic Visualization Experiments
Authors: Zou Guodong , Pan Bin , Zhu Weiyao , Liu Yuwei , Ma Shou , Liu Mingming
Published: March 2023

Fracturing fluids are widely applied in the hydraulic fracturing of shale gas reservoirs, but the fracturing fluid flowback efficiency is typically less than 50%, severely limiting the shale gas recovery. Additionally, the mechanism and main influencing factors of fracturing fluid flowback are unclear. In this study, microscopic experiments are conducted to simulate the fracturing fluid flowback progress in shale gas reservoirs. The mechanism and factors affecting fracturing fluid flowback/retention in the fracture zone were analyzed and clarified. Results show that the ultimate flowback efficiency of fracturing fluid is positively correlated with the fracturing fluid concentration and the gas driving pressure difference. There are four kinds of mechanisms responsible for fracturing fluid retention in the pore network: viscous resistance, the Jamin effect, the gas blockage effect and the dead end of the pore. Additionally, the ultimate flowback efficiency of the fracturing fluid increases linearly with increasing capillary number. These insights will advance the fundamental understanding of fracturing fluid flowback in shale gas reservoirs and provide useful guidance for shale gas reservoirs development.
Training Feedforward Neural Networks Using an Enhanced Marine Predators Algorithm
Authors: Zhang Jinzhong , Xu Yubao
Published: March 2023

The input layer, hidden layer, and output layer are three models of the neural processors that make up feedforward neural networks (FNNs). Evolutionary algorithms have been extensively employed in training FNNs, which can correctly actualize any finite training sample set. In this paper, an enhanced marine predators algorithm (MPA) based on the ranking-based mutation operator (EMPA) was presented to train FNNs, and the objective was to attain the minimum classification, prediction, and approximation errors by modifying the connection weight and deviation value. The ranking-based mutation operator not only determines the best search agent and elevates the exploitation ability, but it also delays premature convergence and accelerates the optimization process. The EMPA integrates exploration and exploitation to mitigate search stagnation, and it has sufficient stability and flexibility to acquire the finest solution. To assess the significance and stability of the EMPA, a series of experiments on seventeen distinct datasets from the machine learning repository of the University of California Irvine (UCI) were utilized. The experimental results demonstrated that the EMPA has a quicker convergence speed, greater calculation accuracy, higher classification rate, strong stability and robustness, which is productive and reliable for training FNNs.
Unrestricted Horizon Predictive Controller Applied in a Biphasic Oil Separator under Periodic Slug Disturbances
Authors: Trentini Rodrigo , Campos Alexandre , Salvador Marcos Antonio , Scheuer Yuri Matheus , dos Santos Carlos Henrique Farias
Published: March 2023

Multi-phase flow, characterised by the presence of both liquid and gas phases, often occurs in riser pipes during oil extraction. These flows can be problematic because they can cause oscillations due to the formation of bubbles within the pipes, which can negatively impact the safety and efficiency of offshore production operations. One solution to this problem is to use a gravitational oil separator, which is designed to dampen these oscillations. The separator is equipped with a control system that uses liquid level and gas pressure sensors to stabilise the flow by adjusting the positions of its valves. This paper presents the use of a specific type of model-based predictive controller to control the level and pressure of a biphasic oil separator, particularly in the presence of slug disturbances. The designs of the separator model and controller are discussed in detail, with a focus on the advantages of using an unrestricted horizon predictive controller, such as its ability to make predictions over a long horizon and its relatively low computational requirements. For the sake of comparison, a linear quadratic regulator is also evaluated. The simulation results demonstrate that the proposed control system is able to effectively regulate the separator’s liquid level and gas pressure within a magnitude range of 10−4 m for the liquid level and 10−3 bar for the internal pressure. Aside from that, the dynamics of the closed-loop system is six times faster than the plant’s for the liquid behaviour and 30 times faster for the pressure, while also presenting sharp attenuation characteristics for the input disturbances of nearly 50 dB for the pressure output and 68 dB for the liquid level.
Smith Predictor Controller Design Using the Direct Synthesis Method for Unstable Second-Order and Time-Delay Systems
Authors: İçmez Yasemin , Can Mehmet Serhat
Published: March 2023

Industrial processes often involve a long time delay, which adversely affects the stability of closed-loop control systems. The traditional Smith Predictor (SP) is a model-based controller used in processes with large time delays. The variation of system parameters and load disturbance situations are disadvantages of the traditional SP, and researchers have, therefore, proposed modified SP structures. In this paper, a design method based on the direct synthesis approach on a modified SP structure is discussed. In the design, an I-PD controller structure is used on the set-point tracking side of the SP, and a cascading PD lead–lag controller is used on the disturbance rejection side. In contrast with other studies in the literature, the use of simpler controllers enables the mathematical expressions that arise in the direct synthesis method to be significantly reduced. The proposed method is examined under the disturbance input effects for normal and parameter-changing conditions on system models with unstable second-order plus time-delay processes. The first plant model has two unstable poles, the second has one stable and one unstable pole, and the third has one unstable and one zero pole. When the results obtained using the proposed method were compared with other methods, significant improvements were achieved in terms of set-point tracking, disturbance rejection, and robustness conditions.
Energy-Saving Analysis of Epichlorohydrin Plant Based on Entransy
Authors: Ma Wenjiao , Xiang Shuguang , Xia Li
Published: March 2023

To improve energy efficiency and to recover energy, various mathematical models, such as pinch analysis, entropy analysis, exergy analysis, and entransy analysis, have been established to analyze heat transfer networks. In this study, these methods were applied to analyze the energy-saving effect of the epichlorohydrin unit in a certain enterprise. The results showed that when the minimum heat transfer temperature difference (ΔTmin) was 10K, 15K, and 20K, the efficiencies of the second law of thermodynamics calculated by entropy analysis were 88.02%, 93.52%, and 99.49%, respectively. The analytical method calculated an efficiency of 61.01%, 59.28%, and 57.27%, respectively, with public works’ savings of 16.59%, 14.86%, and 12.02%. The pinch analysis method achieved public works’ savings of 22.80%, 21.50%, and 19.35%. The entransy analysis method calculated an entransy transfer efficiency of 42.81%, 42.13%, and 41.00%, respectively, with public works’ savings of 19.41%, 18.01%, and 15.70%. Based on the results, entropy analysis was found to be contrary to the principle of minimum entropy production. Exergy analysis was not able to establish a heat transfer network. The pinch analysis method was not suitable for determining the thermal efficiency of a heat transfer network as the criterion for evaluating energy saving. On the other hand, the entransy analysis method was able to establish a heat transfer network and evaluate the heat utilization of the network by entransy transfer efficiency. Overall, the data analysis was reasonable.
Cenozoic Subsidence History of the Northern South China Sea: Examples from the Qiongdongnan and Yinggehai Basins
Authors: Ma Ming , Qi Jiafu , Ma Jinshan , Peng Heng , Lei Linlin , Song Qian , Zhang Qing , Bai Mengen
Published: March 2023

The Qiongdongnan and Yinggehai Basins are important petroliferous basins. To study the Cenozoic subsidence characteristics of these two basins, their controlling factors, and their implications, we studied the basins’ subsidence characteristics via one-dimensional, two-dimensional, and holistic subsidence. Then, we compared the basins’ subsidence characteristics based on the evolution of several particular geological processes that occurred in the South China Sea (SCS) and adjacent areas. The results indicated that the change in the holistic subsidence of both basins occurred episodically. In addition, the subsidence in these two basins differed, including their subsidence rates, the migration of the depocenters, and the changes in the holistic subsidence. The dynamic differences between the two basins were the main factors controlling the differences in the subsidence in the two basins. In the Qiongdongnan Basin, the subsidence characteristics were primarily controlled by the mantle material flowing under the South China Block in the Eocene and the spreading of the SCS from the Oligocene to the Miocene. In the Yinggehai Basin, the subsidence characteristics were primarily controlled by the coupling between the uplift of the Tibetan Plateau and the strike-slip motion of the Red River Fault before the Early Miocene and by only the effect of the strike-slip motion of the Red River Fault from the Middle Miocene to the Late Miocene. Since the Pliocene, the subsidence characteristics of both basins have been principally controlled by the dextral strike-slip motion of the Red River Fault. The major faults contributed to the spaciotemporal variations in the subsidence within each basin.
Effect of Cold-Spray Parameters on Surface Roughness, Thickness and Adhesion of Copper-Based Composite Coating on Aluminum Alloy 6061 T6 Substrate
Authors: Shao Ling , Xue Na , Li Weiwei , Liu Song , Tu Zhibiao , Chen Yingwei , Zhang Jitang , Dai Sheng , Liu Qijie , Shi Xinxing , Wang Tianle , Chen Mengliang , Huang Yingqi , Xu Feilong , Zhu Liu
Published: March 2023

A solid-state cold-spray technique was employed for depositing the copper-coated graphite reinforced copper-based composite coatings on aluminum alloy 6061 T6 substrate under different process parameters. The optimum process parameters of the cold-sprayed coatings were predicted in terms of surface roughness, thickness and adhesion. The surface roughness was measured using a 3D profilometer, the thickness and element constitution were detected by an optical microscope and scanning electron microscope furnished with an energy-dispersive spectral analyzer and the adhesion was detected by the scratch test method. The microstructures of the deposited coatings were also observed by a scanning electron microscope. The results show that when the coating is not oxidized and dense, the copper-coated graphite reinforced copper-based composite coating at 800 °C, 5.5 MPa, possesses the lowest surface roughness, the maximum thickness and the highest adhesion among the cold-sprayed coatings. In addition, the surface roughness, thickness and adhesion of the deposited coatings are all linear with particle velocity.
The Acceptability of Lying and Its Relationship with Other Personality Constructs among a Sample of Adults
Authors: Quinn Anthony , Grant Jon E. , Chamberlain Samuel R.
Published: March 2023

Lying is seemingly common in daily life, but it is scarcely researched despite its possible relevance to understanding a range of pathological behaviors and associated deception. Our aim was to investigate whether the acceptability of lying might indicate other personality constructs by analyzing a variety of questionnaire responses collected from a cross-sectional sample (n = 138). Total scores for lying acceptability were moderately associated with Machiavellianism and with functional impairment due to lying at work, in social settings, and at home. Scores for these tests were not closely associated with problematic usage of the internet, self-esteem, or religious activity/religiosity. Three distinct groupings produced by a multidimensional scale informed us of how lying might be better understood as an explanatory mechanism for compulsive behaviors. We also noted possible avenues for future research into the acceptability of lying and deception.
Hilltop Youth and New Media: The Formation of a Young Religious Digital-Resistance Community
Authors: Rosenberg Hananel , Vogelman-Natan Kalia
Published: March 2023

“Hilltop youth” is the name for young religious Jewish people in Israel who, separated from their families, are living in illegal outposts on hilltops throughout Judea and Samaria. The group’s unique religious, sociological, and ideological characteristics differentiate them from other religious communities previously studied in relation to digital culture. In this study, we offer a new angle that provides insight into the hilltop youth’s religious–ideological perception while focusing on their attitude toward new media, smartphones, and social networks, in particular, an attitude that is part of their self-definition as a separatist community. The findings present and discuss the different layers represented within the hilltop youth’s media resistance and how this media-negating ideological position shapes the group’s perception as a religious community that is a counterculture to religious and social sectors in Israel.
Nones, No Religious Preference, No Religion and the Misclassification of Latino Religious Identity
Authors: Espinosa Gastón
Published: March 2023

This article challenges the conventional wisdom about the reported decline of Christianity and Protestantism in the U.S. and the rise of the “nones” among Latinos. It does so by cross-examining the growth of the “nones” (those respondents reportedly having no religion and/or no religious preference) in the U.S. Latino community, which is slated to make up almost 28 percent of the U.S. population by 2060. In 2000, we stumbled, quite by accident, upon a remarkable discovery in the Latino community: that many of the so-called “nones” were, in fact, under cross examination against other religious identity questions, religious, spiritual, and/or believed in God or a higher power. In some cases they were born-again Christians who rejected the label “religion” (and thus reported having “no religion”) as a descriptor of their faith. Many self-identified as and/or attended independent and non-denominational Evangelical and/or Pentecostal/Charismatic churches. To test these initial findings and to try to secure a more accurate reading of the “nones” respondents, our research team added a follow-up question for the “no religion” respondents to the screening questions section so they could explain what they actually meant in the Latino Religions and Politics (LRAP) national surveys in 2012 and 2020. We also cross-analyzed the “no religion” and “no religious preference” respondents against other religious identity questions, such as being born-again and church attendance, and was surprised to find that more than 60% of them reported believing in God or a higher power and/or being Christian, Catholic, or Protestant, religious, spiritual, or something other than having no religion. More surprising and counterintuitively, we found that more than 40% of those reporting “no religious preference” and 17% of those who reported having “no religion” also self-reported being born-again Christians. All of this problematizes the conventional wisdom about the identity and growth of the “nones” in the Latino community and could (though we do not claim or explore this here) problematize our understanding of the “nones” and the changing contours of religion and secularization in American society.
Assessment of Surfactant Removal Capacity and Microbial Community Diversity in a Greywater-Treating Constructed Wetland
Authors: Mascoli Junior Robelio , Passoni Caique Morelo , Santos Filipe Martins , Bernardes Fernando Silva , Magalhães Filho Fernando Jorge Correa. , Paulo Paula Loureiro
Published: March 2023

Surfactants are among the main chemical contaminants in greywater (GW) and can cause severe health issues in humans and aquatic organisms. We assessed the performance of a multistage constructed wetland system (EvaTAC) for GW treatment and capacity of the microbial community in linear alkyl benzene sulfonate (LAS) biodegradation. Physicochemical analyses were performed over 497 d, and biomass samples were collected for high-throughput DNA sequencing. The system was predominated by anaerobic conditions and received an average chemical oxygen demand (COD) and LAS of 374 and 32 mg·L−1, with removal rates of 66% and 43%, respectively. A positive correlation between COD and LAS suggested COD as a design parameter for LAS removal. We identified microbial genera participating in hydrolysis, fermentation, syntrophy, acetogenesis, methanogenesis, surfactant degradation, and sulphate reduction. Among the 15 surfactant-degrading genera, Pseudomonas was predominant. Community richness and diversity indices were comparable between subsystems, with a slight decrease in diversity observed towards the outlet. Among the LAS degraders, Rhodopseudomonas palustris had the highest relative abundance of operational taxonomic unit (OTU)s in all samples and the highest richness in the anaerobic chamber. The patterns in microbial community composition and environmental conditions suggest that LAS biodegradation occurred throughout the EvaTAC system.