bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of a Cosmetic Formulation Containing Arginine Glutamate in Patients with Burn Scars: A Pilot Study
Authors: Kim HanBi , Kwak InSuk , Kim MiSun , Um JiYoung , Lee SoYeon , Chung BoYoung , Park ChunWook , Won JongGu , Kim HyeOne
Published: September 2024

Background: Patients with burn scars require effective treatments able to alleviate dry skin and persistent itching. Ion pairing has been employed in cosmetic formulations to enhance solubility in solvents and improve skin permeability. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the cosmetic formula “RE:pair (arginine–glutamate ion pair)”, we analyzed scar size, itching and pain, skin barrier function, scar scale evaluation, and satisfaction in our study participants. Methods: A total of 10 patients were recruited, and the formula was used twice a day for up to 4 weeks. Results: Itching was significantly alleviated after 4 weeks of treatment (95% CI = −0.11–1.71) compared to before application (95% CI = 2.11–4.68). Transepidermal water loss (TEWL) showed an 11% improvement after 4 weeks (95% CI = 3.43–8.83) compared to before application (95% CI = 3.93–9.88), and skin coreneum hydration (SCH) showed a significant 41% improvement after 4 weeks (95% CI = 43.01–62.38) compared to before application (95% CI = 20.94–40.65). Conclusions: Based on the confirmation that RE:pair improves skin barrier function and relieves itching, it is likely to be used as a topical treatment for burn scars pending evaluation in follow-up studies (IRB no. HG2023-016).
Harnessing Multi-Omics Strategies and Bioinformatics Innovations for Advancing Soybean Improvement: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Haidar Siwar , Hooker Julia , Lackey Simon , Elian Mohamad , Puchacz Nathalie , Szczyglowski Krzysztof , Marsolais Frédéric , Golshani Ashkan , Cober Elroy R. , Samanfar Bahram
Published: September 2024

Soybean improvement has entered a new era with the advent of multi-omics strategies and bioinformatics innovations, enabling more precise and efficient breeding practices. This comprehensive review examines the application of multi-omics approaches in soybean—encompassing genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, epigenomics, and phenomics. We first explore pre-breeding and genomic selection as tools that have laid the groundwork for advanced trait improvement. Subsequently, we dig into the specific contributions of each -omics field, highlighting how bioinformatics tools and resources have facilitated the generation and integration of multifaceted data. The review emphasizes the power of integrating multi-omics datasets to elucidate complex traits and drive the development of superior soybean cultivars. Emerging trends, including novel computational techniques and high-throughput technologies, are discussed in the context of their potential to revolutionize soybean breeding. Finally, we address the challenges associated with multi-omics integration and propose future directions to overcome these hurdles, aiming to accelerate the pace of soybean improvement. This review serves as a crucial resource for researchers and breeders seeking to leverage multi-omics strategies for enhanced soybean productivity and resilience.
Enhancing Antibiotic Efficacy with Natural Compounds: Synergistic Activity of Tannic Acid and Nerol with Commercial Antibiotics against Pathogenic Bacteria
Authors: Lorca Guillermo , Ballestero Diego , Langa Elisa , Pino-Otín María Rosa
Published: September 2024

The search for synergies between natural products and commercial antibiotics is a promising strategy against bacterial resistance. This study determined the antimicrobial capacity of Nerol (NE) and Tannic Acid (TA) against 14 pathogenic bacteria, including ESKAPE pathogens. TA exhibited the lowest Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (MICs) at 162.5 µg/mL against Pasteurella aerogenes and 187.5 µg/mL against Acinetobacter baumannii (WHO priority 1). NE showed its lowest MIC of 500 µg/mL against both Pasteurella aerogenes and Salmonella enterica. A total of 35 combinations of NE and 13 of TA with eight commercial antibiotics were analyzed. For NE, combinations with Streptomycin and Gentamicin were effective against Salmonella enterica, Bacillus subtilis, and Streptococcus agalactiae, with antibiotic MIC reductions between 75.0 and 87.5%. TA showed six synergies with Chloramphenicol, Ampicillin, Erythromycin, and Streptomycin against Acinetobacter baumannii, Streptococcus agalactiae, and Pasteurella aerogenes, with MIC reductions between 75.0 and 93.7%. Additionally, 31 additive effects with antibiotics for NE and 8 for TA were found. Kinetic studies on these synergies showed complete inhibition of bacterial growth, suggesting that natural products enhance antibiotics by facilitating their access to targets or preventing resistance. Given their safety profiles recognized by the EPA and FDA, these natural products could be promising candidates as antibiotic enhancers.
Application Techniques and Concentrations of Ascorbic Acid to Reduce Saline Stress in Passion Fruit
Authors: Caetano Edmilson Júnio Medeiros , Silva André Alisson Rodrigues da , Lima Geovani Soares de , Azevedo Carlos Alberto Vieira de , Veloso Luana Lucas de Sá Almeida , Arruda Thiago Filipe de Lima , Souza Allesson Ramos de , Soares Lauriane Almeida dos Anjos , Gheyi Hans Raj , Dias Mirandy dos Santos , Borborema Lucyelly Dâmela Araújo , Sousa Vitória Dantas de , Fernandes Pedro Dantas
Published: September 2024

Salinity restricts the growth of irrigated fruit crops in semi-arid areas, making it crucial to find ways to reduce salt stress. One effective strategy is using eliciting substances like ascorbic acid. In this context, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of application methods and concentrations of ascorbic acid on the morphophysiology and production of sour passion fruit irrigated with saline water. The experiment was organized using a factorial randomized block design (3 × 3 × 2) with three application methods (soaking, spraying, and soaking and spraying), three concentrations of ascorbic acid (0, 0.8, and 1.6 mM) and two levels of electrical conductivity of irrigation water—ECw (0.8 and 3.8 dS m−1). Foliar spraying of ascorbic acid at a concentration of 0.8 mM mitigated the effects of salt stress on the relative water content of leaves, the synthesis of photosynthetic pigments, gas exchange, and total production of sour passion fruit when irrigated with ECw of 3.8 dS m−1. Plants grown with water of 0.8 dS m−1 and under foliar application of 0.8 mM of ascorbic acid achieved the maximum growth in stem diameter and the greatest volume of pulp in the fruits.
High-Performance Grape Disease Detection Method Using Multimodal Data and Parallel Activation Functions
Authors: Li Ruiheng , Liu Jiarui , Shi Binqin , Zhao Hanyi , Li Yan , Zheng Xinran , Peng Chao , Lv Chunli
Published: September 2024

This paper introduces a novel deep learning model for grape disease detection that integrates multimodal data and parallel heterogeneous activation functions, significantly enhancing detection accuracy and robustness. Through experiments, the model demonstrated excellent performance in grape disease detection, achieving an accuracy of 91%, a precision of 93%, a recall of 90%, a mean average precision (mAP) of 91%, and 56 frames per second (FPS), outperforming traditional deep learning models such as YOLOv3, YOLOv5, DEtection TRansformer (DETR), TinySegformer, and Tranvolution-GAN. To meet the demands of rapid on-site detection, this study also developed a lightweight model for mobile devices, successfully deployed on the iPhone 15. Techniques such as structural pruning, quantization, and depthwise separable convolution were used to significantly reduce the model’s computational complexity and resource consumption, ensuring efficient operation and real-time performance. These achievements not only advance the development of smart agricultural technologies but also provide new technical solutions and practical tools for disease detection.
Plant-Derived Alkaloids as a Potential Source of Treatment for Colorectal Cancer over the Past Five Years: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Tabakam Tchangou Gaetan , Makhafola Tshepiso Jan
Published: September 2024

The gastrointestinal cancer known as colorectal cancer (CRC) is caused by a variety of genetic and epigenetic alterations in the intestinal epithelium of the colon and rectum. It is becoming more common every year. In view of this significant progress, it is urgent and imperative for researchers to work more in this direction in order to improve this health situation that is a major concern for society. Certain phenomena, such as the development of resistance by certain cells as well as the failure of certain therapies, play a part in the significantly changed situation. However, plants have always been used for their therapeutic virtues due to the large number of compounds they contain. Among them, alkaloids (more than 20,000 alkaloids have been isolated from plants, of which about 600 are known to be bioactive), which are one of the most diverse and extensively investigated classes of compounds among natural products, can be consider as a promising approach with regard to their numerous biological activities in general and, in particular their activities against colorectal cancer. This work aims to undertake deeper research on the examination of alkaloids that can be used as lead compounds in the treatment of colorectal cancer. The databases used during the literature searches were Web of Science, PubMed/Medline, and Scopus. This methodology allowed us to obtain 11 studies and 24 alkaloids (axidimins A–D, tabersonine, 19R-hydroxytabersonine, 11-hydroxytabersonine, 11-methoxytabersonine, vandrikidine, fusiformine A, 3-oxotabersonine, 3-oxo-11-methoxytabersonine, melodinine W2, venalstonidine, scandine, (–)-larutienine A, solasonin, berbamine dihydrochloride, nitidine chloride, GB7 acetate, berberine, boldine, Worenine, and chaetocochin J). Axidimin C and axidimin D showed significant cytotoxic effects on CRC (HCT116 cells) with IC50 values of 5.3 and 3.9 μM, respectively, and they were more active than 5-fluorouracil and etoposide (IC50 = 6.4 and 10.6 μM, respectively) taken as references. These two compounds induced G2/M phase arrest in HCT116 cells by downregulating cyclin B1 and cdc2 expression. Subsequently, promoting apoptosis via modulation of Bax and Bcl-2 levels, they enhanced p38 MAPK expression, leading to G2/M cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in HCT116 cells. Chaetocochin J possess significant activity against three different CRC cell lines [RKO (0.5 μM < IC50 = 0.56 μM < 1.0 μM), HCT116 (0.5 μM < IC50 = 0.61 μM < 1.0 μM) and SW480 (0.5 μM < IC50 = 0.65 μM < 1.0 μM)]. The 21 remaining compounds have a moderate anti-colorectal cancer activity. Thus, we believe that axidimin C, axidimin D and chaetocochin J could be promising compounds to fight colorectal cancer cell carcinoma. Nevertheless, future analysis should be performed on the study of the toxicologies of axidimin C and axidimin D.
Ziziphus jujuba: Applications in the Pharmacy and Food Industry
Authors: Popstoyanova Desislava , Gerasimova Anelia , Gentscheva Galia , Nikolova Stoyanka , Gavrilova Anna , Nikolova Krastena
Published: September 2024

Ziziphus jujuba has been used since ancient times in traditional Eastern medicine. It is widely cultivated in numerous countries between the tropical and temperate climatic zones due to its high ecological plasticity and resilience to adverse weather. The different classes of chemical compounds contained in the plant are the reason for its medicinal properties. Research shows that every part of Ziziphus jujuba, the leaves, fruits and seeds, demonstrate therapeutic properties. This review focuses on the chemical composition in order to establish the relationship between the plant and its clinical use. Various biological effects are summarized and discussed: anticancer, anti-inflammatory, immunostimulating, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, gastrointestinal, etc. Apart from medicinal uses, the fruits of Ziziphus jujuba are edible and used in fresh and dried form. This literature review reveals possible medical applications of Ziziphus jujuba and its great potential for improving the diet of people in areas where the plant is abundant.
Genome-Wide Identification and Analysis of the WRKY Transcription Factor Family Associated with Leaf Senescence in Alfalfa
Authors: Peng Xiaojing , Hu Jinning , Duan Xiangxue , Chai Maofeng , Wen Jiangqi , Wang Zengyu , Xie Hongli
Published: September 2024

Leaves are the most significant parts of forage crops such as alfalfa. Senescence is the terminal stage of leaf development and is controlled by an integrated myriad of endogenous signals and environmental stimuli. WRKY transcription factors (TFs) play essential roles in regulating leaf senescence; however, only a few studies on the analysis and identification of the WRKY TF family in Medicago Sativa have been reported. In this study, we identified 198 WRKY family members from the alfalfa (M. sativa L.) cultivar ’XinjiangDaye’ using phylogenetic analysis and categorized them into three subfamilies, Groups I, II, and III, based on their structural characteristics. Group II members were further divided into five subclasses. In addition, several hormone- and stress-related cis-acting elements were identified in the promoter regions of MsWRKYs. Furthermore, 14 aging-related MsWRKYs genes from a previous transcriptome in our laboratory were selected for RT-qPCR validation of their expression patterns, and subsequently cloned for overexpression examination. Finally, MsWRKY5, MsWRKY66, MsWRKY92, and MsWRKY141 were confirmed to cause leaf yellowing in Nicotiana benthaminana using a transient expression system. Our findings lay a groundwork for further studies on the mechanism of M. sativa leaf aging and for the creation of new germplasm resources.
Chemical Markers in Italian Propolis: Chrysin, Galangin and CAPE as Indicators of Geographic Origin
Authors: Miraldi Elisabetta , Cappellucci Giorgio , Baini Giulia , Pistone Elia Silvia , Allodi Marika , Costantino Gabriele , Spaggiari Chiara , Biagi Marco
Published: September 2024

Knowledge of the chemical composition of propolis is crucial for understanding the characteristics of products of different origins, but also for quality control and regulatory purposes. To date, official monographs or official analyses that allow researchers to evaluate propolis in a proper way have not yet been released. This study focuses on the characterization of twenty-seven Italian propolis samples and the identification of chemical markers that define its geographical provenance. Total polyphenol (TP) and total flavonoid (TF) content, alongside the quantification of pinocembrin, chrysin, galangin, and caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), were identified as potential markers. Additionally, DPPH assays were conducted to evaluate the antiradical activity of propolis samples. Our findings demonstrated that TPs, TFs and pinocembrin differed in propolis of different origins, especially in samples from the islands. However, the quantification of the sum of chrysin and galangin and CAPE provided a clearer distinction of the geographical origin of the propolis samples. In contrast, the DPPH assay did not prove useful for this purpose, as most results were similar and, therefore, not significant. This study lays the groundwork for future research on propolis. These findings could contribute to the development of more refined methods for distinguishing propolis origins, enhancing the understanding, valuation and quality control of this natural product in various applications.
Vegetation Restoration Increases the Drought Risk on the Loess Plateau
Authors: Zhao Hongfei , Dong Jiaqi , Yang Yi , Zhao Jie , He Junhao , Yue Chao
Published: September 2024

The extensive implementation of the ‘Grain for Green’ project over the Loess Plateau has improved environmental quality. However, it has resulted in a greater consumption of soil water, and its overall hydrological effects remain highly controversial. Our study utilized a coupled land-atmosphere model to evaluate the effects of vegetation changes resulting from revegetation or reclamation on the hydrology of the Loess Plateau. Revegetation was found to stimulate an increase in precipitation, evapotranspiration, and atmospheric water content. However, the increase in precipitation was insufficient to compensate for soil water loss driven by intensified evapotranspiration, resulting in a decrease in both runoff and soil water content. In contrast to revegetation, reclamation would reduce precipitation, although the reduction was less than the decrease in evapotranspiration. This could lead to an increase in both runoff and soil water content. The results provide an important scientific basis for the hydrological effects of vegetation changes on the Loess Plateau, which is particularly important for guiding current and future revegetation activities toward sustainable ecosystem development and water resources management.
Evaluation of the Spike Diversity of Seven Hexaploid Wheat Species and an Artificial Amphidiploid Using a Quadrangle Model Obtained from 2D Images
Authors: Komyshev Evgenii G. , Genaev Mikhail A. , Kruchinina Yuliya V. , Koval Vasily S. , Goncharov Nikolay P. , Afonnikov Dmitry A.
Published: September 2024

The spike shape and morphometric characteristics are among the key characteristics of cultivated cereals, being associated with their productivity. These traits are often used for the plant taxonomy and authenticity of hexaploid wheat species. Manual measurement of spike characteristics is tedious and not precise. Recently, the authors of this study developed a method for wheat spike morphometry utilizing 2D image analysis. Here, this method is applied to study variations in spike size and shape for 190 plants of seven hexaploid (2n = 6x = 42) species and one artificial amphidiploid of wheat. Five manually estimated spike traits and 26 traits obtained from digital image analysis were analyzed. Image-based traits describe the characteristics of the base, center and apex of the spike and common parameters (circularity, roundness, perimeter, etc.). Estimates of similar traits by manual measurement and image analysis were shown to be highly correlated, suggesting the practical importance of digital spike phenotyping. The utility of spike traits for classification into types (spelt, normal and compact) and species or amphidiploid is shown. It is also demonstrated that the estimates obtained made it possible to identify the spike characteristics differing significantly between species or between accessions within the same species. The present work suggests the usefulness of wheat spike shape analysis using an approach based on characteristics obtained by digital image analysis.
Transcriptome Responses in Medicago sativa (Alfalfa) Associated with Regrowth Process in Different Grazing Intensities
Authors: Sun Dingyi , Wang Yalin , Zhao Na
Published: September 2024

Medicago sativa L. (alfalfa), a perennial legume, is generally regarded as a valuable source of protein for livestock and is subjected to long and repeated grazing in natural pastures. Studying the molecular response mechanism of alfalfa under different grazing treatments is crucial for understanding its adaptive traits and is of great significance for cultivating grazing-tolerant grass. Here, we performed a transcriptomic analysis to investigate changes in the gene expression of M. sativa under three grazing intensities. In total, 4184 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified among the tested grazing intensities. The analysis of gene ontology (GO) revealed that genes were primarily enriched in cells, cellular processes, metabolic processes, and binding. In addition, two pathways, the plant–pathogen interaction pathway and the plant hormone signal pathway, showed significant enrichment in the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis. Protein kinases and transcription factors associated with hormones and plant immunity were identified. The plant immunity-related genes were more activated under high grazing treatment, while more genes related to regeneration were expressed under light grazing treatment. These results suggest that M. sativa exhibits different strategies to increase resilience and stress resistance under various grazing intensities. Our findings provide important clues and further research directions for understanding the molecular mechanisms of plant responses to grazing.
Light-Regulated Growth, Anatomical, Metabolites Biosynthesis and Transcriptional Changes in Angelica sinensis
Authors: Su Hongyan , Cui Xiuwen , Zhao Yan , Li Mengfei , Wei Jianhe , Paré Paul W.
Published: September 2024

Angelica sinensis is an alpine medicinal plant that has been widely used as a general blood tonic and gynecological indications over 2000 years, which depend on the bioactive metabolites (e.g., volatile oils, organic acids, and flavonoids). Although the accumulation of these metabolites is significantly affected by the environmental factors (e.g., altitude, temperature, and sunshine) as found in previous studies, the regulatory mechanism of different lights has not been clearly revealed. Here, growth parameters, contents of bioactive metabolites, and expression levels of related genes were examined when A. sinensis was exposed to different white-light (WL) and UV-B radiation treatments. The results showed that the differences in growth parameters (e.g., plant height, root length, and plant biomass) and leaf tissue characteristics (e.g., leaf thickness, stomatal density and shape, and chloroplast density) were observed under different light treatments. The contents of Z-ligustilide and ferulic acid elevated with the increase of WL (50 to 150 µmol·m2/s) and maximized under the combination of WL-100 and UV-B (107 µW/m2, UV-107) radiation, while the total flavonoids and polysaccharides contents, as well as in vitro antioxidant capacity, elevated with the increasing of WL and UV-B. mRNA transcripts encoding for the biosynthesis of volatile oils, ferulic acid, flavonoids, and polysaccharides were found to be differentially regulated under the different WL and UV-B treatments. These morphological, anatomical, and transcriptional changes are consistent with the elevated bioactive metabolites in A. sinensis under the combination of WL and UV-B. These findings will provide useful references for improving bioactive metabolite production via the cultivation and bioengineering of A. sinensis.
Investigation of Drought Stress on Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Genotypes Employing Various Physiological Enzymatic and Non-Enzymatic Biochemical Parameters
Authors: Asati Ruchi , Tripathi Manoj Kumar , Yadav Rakesh Kumar , Tripathi Niraj , Sikarwar Ravendra Singh , Tiwari Prakash Narayan
Published: September 2024

Drought stress is a universal crisis in sustaining the growth and production of major legumes, including the chickpea. Drought severely reduces the biomass of chickpea plants, with the effect on leaves appearing the most apparent. The aim of this study was to investigate, using various physiological and biochemical markers throughout the pod filling stage, how 78 desi chickpea genotypes tolerated drought stress. Most of the evaluated characteristics showed significant variations between control and drought treatments. The mean performance of most of the investigated parameters significantly decreased under moisture-stressed conditions. RWC, SWD, MSI, and CTD were investigated under terminal drought-stressed conditions. Except for saturated water deficit (SWD), all remaining characteristics declined with increasing stress. Genotypes SAGL152210, SAGL152252, SAGL152347, SAGL22-115, and JG11 were recognized as drought-tolerant based on physiological characteristics. Biochemical markers viz., protein content, total soluble sugar, lipid peroxidation, and proline content, had an impact on osmotic adjustment. Based on non-enzymatic biochemical traits, genotypes SAGL22-115, ICC4958, ICCV201108, ICCV201107, SAGL152252, and JG11 were identified for their capability to survive under drought-stressed conditions. H2O2 content, CAT, SOD, POD, APX, and DPPH were considered antioxidant agents. Genotypes SAGL152208, SAGL22-105, SAGL22-112, ICC201108, SAGL152278, SAGL152252, SAGL162371, SAGL162390, ICC 4958, and JG315 may be considered drought-tolerant based on antioxidant activities. These genotypes are believed to be better equipped with physio-biochemical mechanisms and antioxidant defense systems at the cellular level and can be used in breeding programs to breed drought-tolerant cultivar(s). They can also be screened in the future, allowing the line(s) that have remained consistent over time to be recognized and registered as drought-tolerant donors.
Protective Effects of Wild Sulla coronaria (Fabaceae) Flowers Phytocomplex in Human Dermal Fibroblasts Stimulated with Interleukin-1β
Authors: Malfa Giuseppe Antonio , Bianchi Simone , Spadaro Vivienne , Kozuharova Ekaterina , Marino Pasquale , Pappalardo Francesco , Di Giacomo Claudia , Acquaviva Rosaria
Published: September 2024

Sulla coronaria is indigenous to the Mediterranean region. It is grown as fodder in southern Italy because it contains various secondary metabolites with beneficial activities on animals. Recently, its potential use in cosmeceutical treatments for skin problems was reported. In this scenario, to contribute to a possible cosmeceutical application, we characterized the phytochemical profile of Sulla coronaria flowers’ hydroalcoholic extract by HPLC-DAD, Folin-Ciocalteu, Aluminum Chloride methods, DPPH assay, and, for the first time, we evaluated the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities on dermal fibroblasts. The phytochemical analysis confirmed the significant content of phenolic compounds (TPC 69.8 ± 0.6 mg GAE/g extract, TFC 15.07 mg CE/g extract) and the remarkable presence of rutin, quercetin, and isorhamnetin derivatives that give to the phytocomplex a good antioxidant activity as highlighted by the DPPH assay (IC50 of 8.04 ± 0.5 µg/mL). Through the reduction in NO• and ROS levels in human dermal fibroblasts, the biological tests demonstrated both the safety of the extract and its ability to counteract the inflammatory state generated by Interleukin-1β exposure. Our findings indicate that the antioxidant activities of the phytocomplex are strictly related to the anti-inflammatory action of the Sulla coronaria flowers extract, confirming that this plant could be a valuable source of bioactive molecules for cosmeceutical and nutraceutical applications.
Influence of Processing Parameters in Injection Molding on the Properties of Short Carbon and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polypropylene Composites
Authors: Höftberger Thomas , Zitzenbacher Gernot , Burgstaller Christoph
Published: September 2024

Short-fiber reinforcement is a potent approach to improving the material properties of injection-molded parts. The main consideration in such reinforced materials is to preserve the fiber length, as this is the major influence on the properties of a given composite. The aim of this work was to investigate the different influencing parameters in injection molding processing on the properties of short carbon and glass fiber-reinforced polypropylene. We investigated parameters like melt temperature and back pressure, but also machine size and pre-heating regarding their influence on the tensile properties. We found that adjustments of melt temperature and back pressure only yield small improvements in the fiber length and the tensile properties, also depending on machine size, but a pre-heating step of the granules can significantly improve the properties.
Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA)-Based Hydrogels: Recent Progress in Fabrication, Properties, and Multifunctional Applications
Authors: Liang Xiaoxu , Zhong Hai-Jing , Ding Hongyao , Yu Biao , Ma Xiao , Liu Xingyu , Chong Cheong-Meng , He Jingwei
Published: September 2024

Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-based hydrogels have attracted significant attention due to their excellent biocompatibility, tunable mechanical properties, and ability to form stable three-dimensional networks. This comprehensive review explores the recent advancements in PVA-based hydrogels, focusing on their unique properties, fabrication strategies, and multifunctional applications. Firstly, it discusses various facile synthesis techniques, including freeze/thaw cycles, chemical cross-linking, and enhancement strategies, which have led to enhanced mechanical strength, elasticity, and responsiveness to external stimuli. These improvements have expanded the applicability of PVA-based hydrogels in critical areas such as biomedical, environmental treatment, flexible electronics, civil engineering, as well as other emerging applications. Additionally, the integration of smart functionalities, such as self-healing capabilities and multi-responsiveness, is also examined. Despite progress, challenges remain, including optimizing mechanical stability under varying conditions and addressing potential toxicity of chemical cross-linkers. The review concludes by outlining future perspectives, emphasizing the potential of PVA-based hydrogels in emerging fields like regenerative medicine, environmental sustainability, and advanced manufacturing. It underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in realizing the full potential of these versatile materials to address pressing societal challenges.
Preparation and Application of a Novel Liquid Oxygen-Compatible Epoxy Resin of Fluorinated Glycidyl Amine with Low Viscosity
Authors: Wei Jianing , Yan Jia , Li Shichao , Li Juanzi , Wu Zhanjun
Published: September 2024

A liquid oxygen-compatible epoxy resin of fluorinated glycidyl amine (TFEPA) with a low viscosity of 260 mPa·s in a wide range of temperatures, from room temperature to 150 °C, was synthesized and used to decrease the viscosity of phosphorus-containing bisphenol F epoxy resins. And the forming process and application performances of this resin system and its composite were investigated. The viscosity of the bisphenol F resin was decreased from 4925 to 749 mPa·s at 45 °C by mixing with 10 wt.% TFEPA, which was enough for the filament winding process. Moreover, the processing temperature and time windows were increased by 73% and 186%, respectively. After crosslinking, the liquid oxygen compatibility was preserved, and its tensile strength, elastic modulus, and breaking elongation at −196 °C were 133.31 MPa, 6.59 GPa, and 2.36%, respectively, which were similar to those without TFEPA. And the flexural strength and modulus were 276.14 MPa and 7.29 GPa, respectively, increasing by 21.73% in strain energy at flexural breaking, indicating an enhanced toughness derived from TFEPA. Based on this resin system, the flexural strength and toughness of its composite at −196 °C were 862.73 MPa and 6.88 MJ/m3, respectively, increasing by 4.46% and 10.79%, respectively.
Sustainable Thermoplastic Material Selection for Hybrid Vehicle Battery Packs in the Automotive Industry: A Comparative Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Approach
Authors: Bulut Mustafa Sefa , Ordu Muhammed , Der Oguzhan , Basar Gokhan
Published: September 2024

This research study employs a comparative Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) approach to select optimal thermoplastic materials for hybrid vehicle battery packs in the automotive industry, addressing the challenges posed by high-temperature environments. Through a detailed evaluation of materials based on criteria such as thermal stability, mechanical strength, chemical resistance, and environmental impact, the research identifies materials that enhance battery efficiency, longevity, and vehicle performance. Utilizing SWARA-ARAS, SWARA-EDAS, and SWARA-TOPSIS methods, the study systematically assesses and ranks various polymers, providing recommendations that prioritize safety, performance, and sustainability. The findings offer valuable insights for manufacturers in making informed material selection decisions, contributing to the advancement of sustainable automotive technologies. This research not only highlights the importance of material selection in the context of hybrid vehicle battery packs but also sets a foundation for future studies to explore emerging materials and decision-making frameworks, aiming to further enhance the efficiency and sustainability of hybrid vehicles.
Valorization of Cellulosic Waste from Artichoke for Incorporation into Biodegradable Polylactic Acid Matrices
Authors: Llidó Barragán Alexandra , Calle Salas Alejandro de la , Parres García Francisco , Crespo Amorós José Enrique
Published: September 2024

This study presents the development of ecological compounds using polylactic acid (PLA) and artichoke flour with the aim of obtaining materials with properties like commercial PLA. PLA biocomposites with different concentrations of green artichoke (HV) and boiled artichoke (HH) (1, 3, 5, 7, 10 and 20% by weight) were manufactured through an extrusion and injection process. Structural, mechanical, physical and color tests were carried out to analyze the effect of lignocellulosic particles on the biopolymeric matrix. The Shore D hardness, elongation at break and heat deflection temperature (HDT) of the PLA/HV and PLA/HH samples showed similar values to pure PLA, indicating that high concentrations of both fillers did not severely compromise these properties. However, reductions in the tensile strength, impact strength and Young’s modulus were observed, and both flours had increased water absorption capacity. FTIR analysis identified the characteristic peaks of the biocomposites and the ratio of the groups regarding the amount of added filler. The SEM revealed low interfacial adhesion between the polymer matrix and the filler. This study represents a significant advance in the valorization and application of circular economy principles to agricultural waste, such as artichoke waste. PLA/HV biocomposites make a substantial contribution to sustainable materials technology, aligning with the goals of the 2030 agenda to reduce environmental impacts and promote sustainable development.
The Effects of Different Cooking Systems on Changes in the Bioactive Compounds, Polyphenol Profiles, Biogenic Elements, and Protein Contents of Cauliflower Florets
Authors: Ahmed Isam A. Mohamed , Al-Juhaimi Fahad Y. , Özcan Mehmet Musa , Uslu Nurhan , Karrar Emad
Published: September 2024

In the current study, we examined the effects of boiling cauliflower in a pressure cooker, conventional boiling, conventional heating, and microwave heating on the chemical components, total phenol, flavonoids, antioxidant capacity (DPPH test), phenolic compounds, and mineral contents of cauliflower florets to reveal the differences between these cooking methods. Cauliflower is generally consumed either boiled or cooked in dry heat. In this study, different boiling and dry heat cooking methods were tried to reveal the changes in phytochemical composition and protein and mineral contents of cauliflower florets. Depending on the cooking methods of the cauliflower florets, the total phenolic and flavonoid contents of the cauliflower florets were determined to be between 273.72 (conventional heating) and 731.01 mg GAE/100 g (microwave heating) and 142.02 (conventional heating) and 797.10 mg/100 g (conventional boiling), respectively. The antioxidant capacity results of cauliflowers were found to be between 8.30 (conventional heating) and 33.69 mmol/kg (fresh). Statistically significant differences were detected in the moisture, total phenol, total flavonoid, and antioxidant activity values of cauliflower depending on the cooking techniques applied (p < 0.05). The gallic acid and 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid values of fresh and cooked cauliflowers were identified to be between 10.93 (microwave heating) and 194.79 mg/100 g (boiling in pressure cooker) and 17.58 (conventional heating) and 145.80 mg/100 g (boiling in pressure cooker), respectively. In general, the lowest amounts of phenolic compounds were defined in cauliflower samples boiled with a conventional heating system, followed by cauliflower samples cooked with the microwave heating method. Considering the component amounts as a result of cooking, the highest phenolic component amounts were specified in the cauliflower sample cooked by boiling in a pressure cooker. The protein quantities of fresh and cooked cauliflowers were determined to be between 16.11 (fresh) and 19.79% (microwave heating). The K and S contents of fresh cauliflowers and cauliflowers cooked with different blanching methods were specified to be between 19,647.62 (conventional boiling) and 35,130.01 mg/kg (conventional heating) and 3196.54 (boiling in pressure cooker) and 5105.65 mg/kg (microwave heating), respectively. The K, Mg, S, Fe, Cu, Mn, and Zn results of cauliflowers cooked in an oven and microwave were higher than those cooked using the control and boiling methods.
Sealing Characteristics Analysis of New Subsea Wellhead Sealing Device
Authors: Li Jing , Ning Bo , Qiu Dezhi , Ou Fenlan , Geng Lantao , Xu Peng , Kou Beibei
Published: September 2024

Subsea wellhead systems are the crucial equipment for the development of oil and gas resources offshore, while the sealing device plays a vital role as the main component of the wellhead system. Once the seal fails, it is necessary to retrieve the original wellhead system and either repair the sealing device or reinstall a new one. This will result in a delay in normal production and an increase in development costs. Therefore, a novel subsea wellhead sealing device is designed. A finite element analysis model is developed to study the underwater wellhead sealing mechanism regarding the equivalent stress and contact stress. The research results show that as the driving block gradually increases from 4 mm to 12 mm, the stress of the 12 convex parts on the sealing body also increases. The maximum equivalent stress reaches 3.5 times the yield limit, indicating that it has entered the yield stage and can achieve a more effective seal. The analysis of the contact stress of the sealing body reveals that the contact stress of the driving block increases, leading to plastic deformation of the sealing body while driving it to achieve a complete seal. In general, the finite element simulation results are consistent with the engineering practice. By analyzing the sealing characteristics, it can serve as the foundation for designing and providing theoretical support for the optimization of the metal-sealing structure.
Effects of Aqueous Solubility and Geochemistry on CO2 Storage in Offshore Basins
Authors: Lv Yanxin , Fang Xiaoyu , Wang Guifeng , Wu Shiguo , Xin Yi , Li Haibo , Liu Weiji
Published: September 2024

The increasing global focus on carbon capture and storage (CCS) has highlighted the potential for offshore CO2 sequestration, particularly following recent successes in onshore projects. This research investigates the qualitative analysis of carbon trapping efficiency in offshore basins, employing a GEM simulator to incorporate factors such as aqueous solubility and geochemistry. The findings reveal that anticlines represent ideal geological structures for carbon storage, effectively trapping a significant portion of injected CO2. For effective mineralization, it is crucial to dissolve CO2 into saline aquifers to generate H+, which facilitates the release of Ca2+ and Al3+ from anorthite. This process leads to the dissolution of anorthite and the precipitation of kaolinite, while calcite transitions from a dissolved state to a precipitated state over time. The analysis indicates that structural trapping provides the highest storage contribution during the injection phase, whereas residual gas trapping becomes dominant by the end of the simulation. Notably, it is observed that the storage contribution of structural trapping decreases from 28.39% to 19.05%, and the percentage increase in storage contributions of residual gas, solubility, ionic, and mineral trapping are 4.12%, 3.25%, 1.69%, and 0.28% for CO2 plus water injection, thereby improving the long-term security of CO2 storage in offshore basins. It is most beneficial to optimize the layout and design of the injection well to ensure a uniform distribution of carbon dioxide and to increase the injection rate.
The Sacred in Thinging: Heidegger’s “Design” in the Light of Kantian Aesthetics and the Telos of Nature
Authors: Zhao Xiaochen
Published: September 2024

This article offers a fresh exegesis of Heidegger’s philosophy of art, focusing on his conceptualization of artwork as the reproduction of the thing’s general essence. Grounding the analysis in Heidegger’s revisit of Kant’s Transcendental Aesthetic, this study explores Heidegger’s interpretation of a thing as a “composed homogeneity” that reveals inherent determinations of temporality and spatiality in the self-presence of beings as a phenomenon grasped within finite human cognition. This is inextricably linked to the ecstatic temporality of Dasein, elucidating a cyclical human–thing dynamic integral to Heidegger’s ontology. Going deeper, I draw parallels between Kant’s “supersensible” realm and Heidegger’s “earth”, revealing a teleological (ethical) design manifested in art that captures the dual essence of Nature—using Kantian terminology, its purposiveness and contrapurposiveness—intersecting with Heidegger’s notion of the counter-essence of ἀλήθεια in relation to freedom. Finally, I show how the manifold aesthetic metamorphoses of this existential scheme within the existentiell ordinariness through nonradiant φαίνεσθαι, such as equipmentality, emerge as the everyday incarnation of this design.
François Hotman and the Critique of Gratian’s Decree: From the Investigation of Early Councils (De statu primitivae Ecclesiae, 1553) to the Rewriting of Europe’s Legal History (Antitribonian, 1567)
Authors: Martens Christian
Published: September 2024

François Hotman (1524–1590) was one of the leading Reformed jurisconsults of his time. Past research has stressed his innovative interpretations and practices in the study of Roman, feudal, and French constitutional law. Little has yet been said about his views on canon law, another fundamental legal body in Western history that experienced renewed intellectual scrutiny during the sixteenth century. This paper investigates some of Hotman’s early work on canon law, focusing on his legal–historical reconstruction of the early Church in De statu primitivae Ecclesiae (1553) and his contribution to a budding historical field in Catholic circles: conciliar history. Despite the general lack of interest in the history of councils on the part of some leading Protestant theologians (Luther, Calvin, Bullinger), Hotman clearly believed that the textual tradition of councils provided a prime example of sustained popish efforts to control and deform the historical narrative and the legal structure of the Church. Yet, although he seems to have worked on demonstrating just that over more than forty years, he never again voiced his views on the matter in a dedicated work. Comparing in its conclusion De statu primitivae Ecclesiae with Antitribonian, this paper suggests that, in parallel to his better known ‘complex of Tribonian’ (Pierre Mesnard), Hotman seems to have suffered from a ‘complex of Gratian’: the doctrinal unity and institutional accomplishments of the early Church, as represented by the first councils, may well have dazzled Hotman and kept him from writing some definitive work against Gratian.
Some Eastern Orthodox Perspectives on Science-Engaged Theology (and Their Relevance to Western Christians)
Authors: Knight Christopher C.
Published: September 2024

An Eastern Orthodox understanding of science—that of Christopher C. Knight—is presented as a contribution to science-engaged theology that has implications for western Christian reflection on science as a contemporary locus theologicus. Three areas of enquiry are discussed: natural theology, the human mind in its relationship to God, and divine action. It is suggested that in each of these areas, Orthodox perspectives can provide links between the differing perspectives to be found among western Christians and provide new pathways for theological exploration on an ecumenical basis.
Fetishism for Our Times: A Rhetorical and Philosophical Exploration
Authors: Airaksinen Timo
Published: September 2024

This article develops a detailed theory of the fetishes of the modern world. Fetishes may still have their original religious application as talismans and totems, but their actual range is much wider, as I illustrate. I show that a modern fetish satisfies our needs in an unexpected and unlikely manner: it does what it, prima facie, is not supposed to do. How does this happen? To explain, we must trace the construction of fetishes; I do this using some key rhetorical concepts. Paradiastole is a technique of evaluative redescription. It describes the world in value terms as something it is not—we can then ironize the result. If it serves the speakers’ essential interests and satisfies their desires, we have explained a fetish as a good-maker. The fetishization of an object, because of its ironic background, tends to invite critical, meiotic, and even derogatory responses—usually, the issue is and remains essentially contested. For example, early Christians wrote hagiographies that treated some people as saints, thus creating ad hoc beliefs that satisfied their religious interests. I also suggest a different, metonymic understanding of fetishes and their educational benefits. Perhaps my theory is overly permissive, allowing too many fetishes. My final conjecture is that true fetishes function as identity markers; for example, the crucifix is a fetish that defines Christianity.
A Fast Computing Model for the Oxygen A-Band High-Spectral-Resolution Absorption Spectra Based on Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Zhou Jianxi , Dai Congming , Wu Pengfei , Wei Heli
Published: September 2024

A fast and accurate radiative transfer model is the prerequisite in the field of atmospheric remote sensing for limb atmospheric inversion to tackle the drawback of slow calculation speed of traditional atmospheric radiative transfer models. This paper established a fast computing model (ANN-HASFCM) for high-spectral-resolution absorption spectra by using artificial neural networks and PCA (principal component analysis) spectral reconstruction technology. This paper chose the line-by-line radiative transfer model (LBLRTM) as the comparative model and simulated training spectral data in the oxygen A-band (12,900–13,200 cm−1). Subsequently, ANN-HASFCM was applied to the retrieval of the atmospheric density profile with the data of the Global Ozone Monitoring by an Occultation of Stars (GOMOS) instrument. The results show that the relative error between the optical depth spectra calculated by LBLRTM and ANN-HASFCM is within 0.03–0.65%. In the process of using the global-fitting algorithm to invert GOMOS-measured atmospheric samples, the inversion results using Fast-LBLRTM and ANN-HASFCM as forward models are consistent, and the retrieval speed of ANN-HASFCM is more than 200 times faster than that of Fast-LBLRTM (reduced from 226.7 s to 0.834 s). The analysis shows the brilliant application prospects of ANN-HASFCM in limb remote sensing.