bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hungry for Change: The Experiences of People with PKU, and Their Caregivers, When Eating Out
Authors: Poole Grace , Pinto Alex , Evans Sharon , Ford Suzanne , O’Driscoll Mike , Buckley Sharon , Ashmore Catherine , Daly Anne , MacDonald Anita
Published: January 2022

For patients with phenylketonuria (PKU), stringent dietary management is demanding and eating out may pose many challenges. Often, there is little awareness about special dietary requirements within the hospitality sector. This study’s aim was to investigate the experiences and behaviours of people with PKU and their caregivers when dining out. We also sought to identify common problems in order to improve their experiences when eating outside the home. Individuals with PKU or their caregivers residing in the UK were invited to complete a cross-sectional online survey that collected both qualitative and quantitative data about their experiences when eating out. Data were available from 254 questionnaire respondents (136 caregivers or patients with PKU < 18 years and 118 patients with PKU ≥ 18 years (n = 100) or their caregivers (n = 18)). Fifty-eight per cent dined out once per month or less (n = 147/254) and the biggest barrier to more frequent dining was ‘limited choice of suitable low-protein foods’ (90%, n = 184/204), followed by ‘no information about the protein content of foods’ (67%, n = 137/204). Sixty-nine per cent (n = 176/254) rated their dining experience as less than satisfactory. Respondents ranked restaurant employees’ knowledge of the PKU diet as very poor with an overall median rating of 1.6 (on a scale of 1 for extremely poor to 10 for extremely good). Forty-four per cent (n = 110/252) of respondents said that restaurants had refused to prepare alternative suitable foods; 44% (n = 110/252) were not allowed to eat their own prepared food in a restaurant, and 46% (n = 115/252) reported that restaurants had refused to cook special low-protein foods. Forty per cent (n = 101/254) of respondents felt anxious before entering restaurants. People with PKU commonly experienced discrimination in restaurants, with hospitality staff failing to support their dietary needs, frequently using allergy laws and concerns about cross-contamination as a reason not to provide suitable food options. It is important that restaurant staff receive training regarding low-protein diets, offer more low-protein options, provide protein analysis information on all menu items, and be more flexible in their approach to cooking low-protein foods supplied by the person with PKU. This may help people with PKU enjoy safe meals when dining out and socialising with others.
Myricetin Increases Circulating Adropin Level after Activation of Glucagon-like Peptide 1 (GLP-1) Receptor in Type-1 Diabetic Rats
Authors: Li Ying-Xiao , Cheng Kai-Chun , Liu I-Min , Niu Ho-Shan
Published: January 2022

Myricetin is a common plant-derived flavonoid, considered an agonist of glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor. It improves glycemic control and helps reduce body weight in diabetic subjects. The potential mechanisms of action of myricetin in this context might be enhancing the secretion of β-endorphin (BER) to activate peripheral μ-opioid receptors. Moreover, adropin is a nutritionally regulated peptide hormone, which regulates energy metabolism, and plays a role in ameliorating diabetes. Because their mechanisms of insulin sensitivity are closely related, we hypothesized that myricetin may interact with adropin and plasma BER. The present study investigated the glucose-lowering effect of acute and chronic treatments of myricetin in type-1 diabetic rats. Plasma BER and adropin levels were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The secretion of BER was measured in rats who received adrenalectomy. The changes in adropin gene (Enho) or mRNA level of GLP-1 receptor were measured using qPCR analysis. The results showed that myricetin dose-dependently increased plasma BER and adropin levels like the reduction of hyperglycemia after bolus injection as acute treatment. In addition, these effects of myricetin were inhibited by the antagonist of GLP-1 receptor. Moreover, in HepG2 cell line, myricetin induced GLP-1 receptor activation, which modulated the expression of adropin. In diabetic rats, the plasma adropin increased by myricetin is mainly through endogenous β-endorphin after activation of GLP-1 receptor via bolus injection as acute treatment. Additionally, chronic treatment with myricetin increased adropin secretion in diabetic rats. In conclusion, our results provide a new finding that activation of opioid μ-receptor in the liver may enhance circulating adropin in animals.
Anticancer Activities of Mushrooms: A Neglected Source for Drug Discovery
Authors: Panda Sujogya Kumar , Sahoo Gunanidhi , Swain Shasank S. , Luyten Walter
Published: January 2022

Approximately 270 species of mushrooms have been reported as potentially useful for human health. However, few mushrooms have been studied for bioactive compounds that can be helpful in treating various diseases. Like other natural regimens, the mushroom treatment appears safe, as could be expected from their long culinary and medicinal use. This review aims to provide a critical discussion on clinical trial evidence for mushrooms to treat patients with diverse types of cancer. In addition, the review also highlights the identified bioactive compounds and corresponding mechanisms of action among the explored mushrooms. Furthermore, it also discusses mushrooms with anticancer properties, demonstrated either in vitro and/or in vivo models, which have never been tested in clinical studies. Several mushrooms have been tested in phase I or II clinical trials, mostly for treating breast cancer (18.6%), followed by colorectal (14%) and prostate cancer (11.6%). The majority of clinical studies were carried out with just 3 species: Lentinula edodes (22.2%), Coriolus versicolor, and Ganoderma lucidum (both 13.9%); followed by two other species: Agaricus bisporus and Grifola frondosa (both 11.1%). Most in vitro cell studies use breast cancer cell lines (43.9%), followed by lung (14%) and colorectal cancer cell lines (13.1%), while most in vivo animal studies are performed in mice tumor models (58.7%). Although 32 species of mushrooms at least show some promise for the treatment of cancer, only 11 species have been tested clinically thus far. Moreover, most clinical studies have investigated fewer numbers of patients, and have been limited to phase III or IV. Therefore, despite the promising preclinical and clinical data publication, more solid scientific efforts are required to clarify the therapeutic value of mushrooms in oncology.
Inhibiting CK2 among Promising Therapeutic Strategies for Gliomas and Several Other Neoplasms
Authors: Pucko Emanuela B. , Ostrowski Robert P.
Published: January 2022

In gliomas, casein kinase 2 (CK2) plays a dominant role in cell survival and tumour invasiveness and is upregulated in many brain tumours. Among CK2 inhibitors, benzimidazole and isothiourea derivatives hold a dominant position. While targeting glioma tumour cells, they show limited toxicity towards normal cells. Research in recent years has shown that these compounds can be suitable as components of combined therapies with hyperbaric oxygenation. Such a combination increases the susceptibility of glioma tumour cells to cell death via apoptosis. Moreover, researchers planning on using any other antiglioma investigational pharmaceutics may want to consider using these agents in combination with CK2 inhibitors. However, different compounds are not equally effective when in such combination. More research is needed to elucidate the mechanism of treatment and optimize the treatment regimen. In addition, the role of CK2 in gliomagenesis and maintenance seems to have been challenged recently, as some compounds structurally similar to CK2 inhibitors do not inhibit CK2 while still being effective at reducing glioma viability and invasion. Furthermore, some newly developed inhibitors specific for CK2 do not appear to have strong anticancer properties. Further experimental and clinical studies of these inhibitors and combined therapies are warranted.
Formulation and Evaluation of Self-Nanoemulsifying Drug Delivery System Derived Tablet Containing Sertraline
Authors: Nair Anroop B. , Singh Bhavna , Shah Jigar , Jacob Shery , Aldhubiab Bandar , Sreeharsha Nagaraja , Morsy Mohamed A. , Venugopala Katharigatta N. , Attimarad Mahesh , Shinu Pottathil
Published: January 2022

Being a biopharmaceutics classification system class II drug, the absorption of sertraline from the gut is mainly limited by its poor aqueous solubility. The objective of this investigation was to improve the solubility of sertraline utilizing self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems (SNEDDS) and developing it into a tablet dosage form. Ternary phase diagrams were created to identify nanoemulsion regions by fixing oil (glycerol triacetate) and water while varying the surfactant (Tween 80) and co-surfactant (PEG 200) ratio (Smix). A three-factor, two-level (23) full factorial design (batches F1–F8) was utilized to check the effect of independent variables on dependent variables. Selected SNEDDS (batch F4) was solidified into powder by solid carrier adsorption method and compressed into tablets. The SNEDDS-loaded tablets were characterized for various pharmaceutical properties, drug release and evaluated in vivo in Wistar rats. A larger isotropic region was noticed with a Smix ratio of 2:1 and the nanoemulsion exhibited good stability. Screening studies’ data established that all three independent factors influence the dependent variables. The prepared tablets displayed optimal pharmaceutical properties within acceptable limits. In vitro sertraline release demonstrated from solid SNEDDS was statistically significant (p < 0.0001) as compared to pure sertraline. Differential Scanning Calorimetry and X-Ray Diffraction data established the amorphous state of the drug in SNEDDS formulation, while FTIR spectra indicate the compatibility of excipients and drug. Pharmacokinetic evaluation of the SNEDDS tablet demonstrated significant increment (p < 0.0001) in AUC0-α (~5-folds), Cmax (~4-folds), and relative bioavailability (386%) as compared to sertraline suspension. The current study concludes that the solid SNEDDS formulation could be a practicable and effective strategy for oral therapy of sertraline.
Phylogenetic and Expression Analysis of CENH3 and APOLLO Genes in Sexual and Apomictic Boechera Species
Authors: Bakin Evgeny , Sezer Fatih , Özbilen Aslıhan , Kilic Irem , Uner Buket , Rayko Mike , Taskin Kemal Melih , Brukhin Vladimir
Published: January 2022

Apomictic plants (reproducing via asexual seeds), unlike sexual individuals, avoid meiosis and egg cell fertilization. Consequently, apomixis is very important for fixing maternal genotypes in the next plant generations. Despite the progress in the study of apomixis, molecular and genetic regulation of the latter remains poorly understood. So far APOLLO gene encoding aspartate glutamate aspartate aspartate histidine exonuclease is one of the very few described genes associated with apomixis in Boechera species. The centromere-specific histone H3 variant encoded by CENH3 gene is essential for cell division. Mutations in CENH3 disrupt chromosome segregation during mitosis and meiosis since the attachment of spindle microtubules to a mutated form of the CENH3 histone fails. This paper presents in silico characteristic of APOLLO and CENH3 genes, which may affect apomixis. Furthermore, we characterize the structure of CENH3 by bioinformatic tools, study expression levels of APOLLO and CENH3 transcripts by Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction RT-PCR in gynoecium/siliques of the natural diploid apomictic and sexual Boechera species at the stages of meiosis and before and after fertilization. While CENH3 was a single copy gene in all Boechera species, the APOLLO gene have several polymorphic alleles associated with sexual and apomictic reproduction in the Boechera genera. Expression of the APOLLO apo-allele during meiosis was upregulated in gynoecium of apomict B. divaricarpa downregulating after meiosis until the 4th day after pollination (DAP). On the 5th DAP, expression in apomictic siliques increased again. In sexual B. stricta gynoecium and siliques APOLLO apo-allele did not express. Expression of the APOLLO sex-allele during and after meiosis in gynoecium of sexual plants was several times higher than that in apomictic gynoecium. However, after pollination the sex-allele was downregulated in sexual siliques to the level of apomicts and increased sharply on the 5th DAP, while in apomictic siliques it almost did not express. At the meiotic stage, the expression level of CENH3 in the gynoecium of apomicts was two times lower than that of the sexual Boechera, decreasing in both species after meiosis and keep remaining very low in siliques of both species for several days after artificial pollination until the 4th DAP, when the expression level raised in sexual B. stricta siliques exceeding 5 times the level in apomictic B. divaricarpa siliques. We also discuss polymorphism and phylogeny of the APOLLO and CENH3 genes. The results obtained may indicate to a role of the CENH3 and APOLLO genes in the development of apomixis in species of the genus Boechera.
Inhibition of α-Glucosidase, Acetylcholinesterase, and Nitric Oxide Production by Phytochemicals Isolated from Millettia speciosa—In Vitro and Molecular Docking Studies
Authors: Tuan Nguyen Ngoc , Thi Huong Nguyen , My Chau Le Thi , Hai Tang Xuan , Trung Hieu Tran , Kim Anh Nguyen Thi , Tan Thanh Nguyen , Van Tan Le , Nguyen Cuong Quoc , Tran Quang De , Kuo Ping-Chung , Dang Quang Le , Thang Tran Dinh
Published: January 2022

The phytochemical constituents from the roots of Millettia speciosa were investigated by chromatographic isolation, and their chemical structures were characterized using the MS and NMR spectroscopic methods. A total of 10 compounds, including six triterpenoids, two flavonoids, and two phenolic compounds, were identified from the roots of M. speciosa. Out of the isolated compounds, eight showed inhibitory effects on NO production in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells, with IC50 values ranging from 43.9 to 449.5 µg/mL. Ursane-type triterpenes significantly suppressed NO production compared to the remaining compounds. In addition, these compounds also exhibited remarkable inhibitory effects on α-glucosidase. Among the tested compounds, 4, 5, and 10 exhibited excellent α-glucosidase inhibition, with IC50 values ranging from 1.1 to 2.2 µg/mL. Almost all of the test compounds showed little or no acetylcholinesterase inhibition, except for 5, which showed moderate anti-acetylcholinesterase activity in vitro. The molecular docking study of α-glucosidase inhibition by 3–5 and 10 was conducted to observe the interactions of these molecules with the enzyme. Compounds 4, 5, and 10 exhibited a better binding affinity toward the targeted receptor and the H-bond interactions located at the entrance of the enzyme active site pocket in comparison to those of 3 and the positive control acarbose. Our findings evidence the pharmacological potential of this species and suggest that the phytochemicals derived from the roots of M. speciosa may be promising lead molecules for further studies on the development of anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetes drugs.
Host Species-Dependent Transmission of Tomato Leaf Curl New Delhi Virus-ES by Bemisia tabaci
Authors: Janssen Dirk , Simón Almudena , Boulares Maher , Ruiz Leticia
Published: January 2022

The tomato leaf curl New Delhi virus (ToLCNDV) is a bipartite, single-stranded begomovirus that was first identified in India in 1995 affecting solanaceous crops. A different strain, named ToLCNDV-ES, was introduced in Spain in 2012 and causes severe symptoms in zucchini crops. Virus transmission experiments with the whitefly Bemisia tabaci, were used to compare the transmission parameters in zucchini and tomato plants. The minimum acquisition access period and inoculation access period of ToLCNDV-ES transmission was similar in zucchini and tomato. However, the transmission efficiency was significantly higher in zucchini (96%) compared to tomato (2%). The maximum retention of the virus in the vector was 16 days. B. tabaci feeding on, or recently emerged from infected zucchini plants, accumulated more virus than those from infected tomato, as determined by real-time PCR. A total of 20% of B. tabaci that were recently emerged from infected zucchini, and none from infected tomato, were able to transmit the virus to virus-free zucchini. The results may explain the different incidences of ToLCNDV-ES in zucchini and tomato crops in Spain. But they are also relevant for ToLCNDV-ES management of crops and the role of the trade and transport of infected plant material, when small-sized immature stages of B. tabaci could be a source of infection.
The Native Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi and Vermicompost-Based Organic Amendments Enhance Soil Fertility, Growth Performance, and the Drought Stress Tolerance of Quinoa
Authors: Benaffari Wissal , Boutasknit Abderrahim , Anli Mohamed , Ait-El-Mokhtar Mohamed , Ait-Rahou Youssef , Ben-Laouane Raja , Ben Ahmed Hela , Mitsui Toshiaki , Baslam Marouane , Meddich Abdelilah
Published: January 2022

The present study aimed to determine the effects of biostimulants on the physicochemical parameters of the agricultural soil of quinoa under two water regimes and to understand the mode of action of the biostimulants on quinoa for drought adaptation. We investigated the impact of two doses of vermicompost (5 and 10 t/ha) and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi applied individually, or in joint application, on attenuating the negative impacts of water shortage and improving the agro-physiological and biochemical traits of quinoa, as well as soil fertility, under two water regimes (well-watered and drought stress) in open field conditions. Exposure to drought decreased biomass, leaf water potential, and stomatal conductance, and increased malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide content. Mycorrhiza and/or vermicompost promoted plant growth by activating photosynthesis machinery and nutrient assimilation, leading to increased total soluble sugars, proteins, and antioxidant enzyme activities in the leaf and root. After the experiment, the soil’s total organic matter, phosphorus, nitrogen, calcium, and soil glomalin content improved by the single or combined application of mycorrhiza and vermicompost. This knowledge suggests that the combination of mycorrhiza and vermicompost regulates the physiological and biochemical processes employed by quinoa in coping with drought and improves the understanding of soil–plant interaction.
The Photosynthetic Efficiency and Carbohydrates Responses of Six Edamame (Glycine max. L. Merrill) Cultivars under Drought Stress
Authors: Hlahla Jeremiah M. , Mafa Mpho S. , van der Merwe Rouxléne , Alexander Orbett , Duvenhage Mart-Mari , Kemp Gabre , Moloi Makoena J.
Published: January 2022

Vegetable-type soybean, also known as edamame, was recently introduced to South Africa. However, there is lack of information on its responses to drought. The aim of this study was to investigate the photosynthetic efficiency and carbohydrates responses of six edamame cultivars under drought stress. Photosynthetic efficiency parameters, including chlorophyll fluorescence and stomatal conductance, were determined using non-invasive methods, while pigments were quantified spectrophotometrically. Non-structural carbohydrates were quantified using Megazyme kits. Structural carbohydrates were determined using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Drought stress significantly increased the Fv/Fm and PIabs of AGS429 and UVE17 at pod filling stage. Chlorophyll-a, which was most sensitive to drought, was significantly reduced in AGS429 and UVE17, but chlorophyll-b was relatively stable in all cultivars, except UVE17, which showed a significant decline at flowering stage. AGS354 and AGS429 also showed reduced chlorophyll-b at pod filling. UVE17 showed a significant reduction in carotenoid content and a substantial reduction in stomatal conductance during pod filling. Drought stress during pod filling resulted in a significant increase in the contents of trehalose, sucrose and starch, but glucose was decreased. Chlorophyll-a positively correlated with starch. The FTIR and XRD results suggest that the cell wall of UVE14, followed by UVE8 and AGS429, was the most intact during drought stress. It was concluded that carotenoids, stomatal conductance, starch and hemicellulose could be used as physiological/biochemical indicators of drought tolerance in edamame. This information expands our knowledge of the drought defense responses in edamame, and it is essential for the physiological and biochemical screening of drought tolerance.
Enhancing Mechanical Properties of Graft-Type Nanocomposites Using Organically Modified SiO2 and Polypropylene Containing Reactive Methoxy Groups
Authors: Zhu Dongzhi , Kurahashi Eiji , You Hui , Wada Toru , Chammingkwan Patchanee , Taniike Toshiaki
Published: January 2022

In situ grafting of a reactive matrix and nanofillers is a promising strategy to fabricate graft-type polypropylene (PP)-based nanocomposites, where the grafting efficiency is affected by the initial dispersion of nanofillers in the matrix. In this work, influences of surface organic modification of nanofillers were investigated on properties of PP/SiO2 nanocomposites using poly(propylene-co-octenyltrimethoxysilane) as a reactive matrix. The surface modification of SiO2, especially with longer alkyl chains, led to improved dispersion of nanoparticles, thus promoting the grafting reaction and mechanical properties. The combination of in situ grafting and surface modification of nanofillers provided several benefits, most notably in balancing the strength and the toughness, which could not be achieved by the grafting alone.
Fiber-Reinforced Polymer-Confined Non-Circular Columns with Shape Modification: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: He Chunbao , Zeng Jun-Jie
Published: January 2022

The implementation of shape modification (SM) to reinforced concrete (RC) columns has been demonstrated to be effective when enhancing the effectiveness of the fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) confinement of the columns, particularly for non-circular columns. The SM approach generally includes modifying a square section into a circular one, modifying a rectangular section into an elliptical/oval one and modifying a square/rectangular section into a curvilinearized square/rectangular section. In this paper, a state-of-the-art review of studies on FRP-confined non-circular columns with SM is conducted. The effects of key parameters on the effectiveness of FRP confinement are discussed, and different methods for the implementation of SM in real applications are briefly introduced. The findings of the review further confirm the effectiveness of the SM approach, and the test results demonstrate the effectiveness and advantages of section curvilinearization with a limited increase in cross-sectional area. Additionally, existing theoretical models for FRP-confined concrete in columns with SM are summarized. Further research opportunities associated with FRP-confined non-circular columns with SM are identified.
Unraveling of Advances in 3D-Printed Polymer-Based Bone Scaffolds
Authors: Xu Yuanhang , Zhang Feiyang , Zhai Weijie , Cheng Shujie , Li Jinghua , Wang Yi
Published: January 2022

The repair of large-area irregular bone defects is one of the complex problems in orthopedic clinical treatment. The bone repair scaffolds currently studied include electrospun membrane, hydrogel, bone cement, 3D printed bone tissue scaffolds, etc., among which 3D printed polymer-based scaffolds Bone scaffolds are the most promising for clinical applications. This is because 3D printing is modeled based on the im-aging results of actual bone defects so that the printed scaffolds can perfectly fit the bone defect, and the printed components can be adjusted to promote Osteogenesis. This review introduces a variety of 3D printing technologies and bone healing processes, reviews previous studies on the characteristics of commonly used natural or synthetic polymers, and clinical applications of 3D printed bone tissue scaffolds, analyzes and elaborates the characteristics of ideal bone tissue scaffolds, from t he progress of 3D printing bone tissue scaffolds were summarized in many aspects. The challenges and potential prospects in this direction were discussed.
Engineered Superabsorbent Nanocomposite Reinforced with Cellulose Nanocrystals for Remediation of Basic Dyes: Isotherm, Kinetic, and Thermodynamic Studies
Authors: Al-Gorair Arej S. , Sayed Asmaa , Mahmoud Ghada A.
Published: January 2022

In this study, cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) were produced from pea peels by acid hydrolysis to be used with pectin and acrylic acid (AAc) to form Pectin-PAAc/CNC nanocomposite by γ-irradiation. The structure, morphology, and properties of the nanocomposite were investigated using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) techniques. The nanocomposite hydrogel was used for the removal of methylene blue dye (MB) from wastewater. The results revealed that the presence of CNCs in the polymeric matrix enhances the swelling and adsorption properties of Pectin-PAAc/CNC. The optimum adsorbate concentration is 70 mg/L. The kinetic experimental data were fit by pseudo-first-order (PFO), pseudo-second-order (PSO), and Avrami (Avr) kinetic models. It was found that the kinetic models fit the adsorption of MB well where the correlation coefficients of all kinetic models are higher than 0.97. The Avr kinetic model has the lowest ∆qe (normalized standard deviation) value, making it the most suitable one for describing the adsorption kinetics. The adsorption isotherm of MB by Pectin-PAAc follows the Brouers–Sotolongo model while that by Pectin-PAAc/CNC follows the Langmuir isotherm model. The negative values of ∆G confirmed the spontaneous nature of adsorption, and the positive value of ∆H indicated the endothermic nature of the adsorption.
In-Plane Deformation Behavior and the Open Area of Rotating Squares in an Auxetic Compound Fabric
Authors: Dubrovski Polona Dobnik , Novak Nejc , Borovinšek Matej , Vesenjak Matej , Ren Zoran
Published: January 2022

A conventional compound fabric was used to develop a modern, multifunctional material with an auxetic behaviour and a tailored open area for particle filtration. Such material was produced using traditional textile technology and laser cutting, to induce a rotating squares unit geometry. The behaviour was investigated of three different rotating unit cell sizes. The laser slit thickness and the length of the hinges were equal for all three-unit cells. The tensile properties, Poisson’s ratio and auxetic behaviour of the tested samples were investigated, especially the influence of longitudinal displacement on the fabric’s open area and the filtered particle sizes (average and maximum). Results show that the developed compound fabric possesses an average negative Poisson’s ratio of up to −1, depending on the applied auxetic geometry. The larger rotating cell size samples offer a higher average negative Poisson’s ratio and a higher breaking strength due to the induced slits. The findings highlight the usefulness of patterned cuts in conventional textile materials to develop advanced auxetic textile materials with tailored geometrical and mechanical properties.
Gas Dispersion in Non-Newtonian Fluids with Mechanically Agitated Systems: A Review
Authors: Lins Barros Paloma , Ein-Mozaffari Farhad , Lohi Ali
Published: January 2022

Gas dispersion in non-Newtonian fluids is encountered in a broad range of chemical, biochemical, and food industries. Mechanically agitated vessels are commonly employed in these processes because they promote high degree of contact between the phases. However, mixing non-Newtonian fluids is a challenging task that requires comprehensive knowledge of the mixing flow to accurately design stirred vessels. Therefore, this review presents the developments accomplished by researchers in this field. The present work describes mixing and mass transfer variables, namely volumetric mass transfer coefficient, power consumption, gas holdup, bubble diameter, and cavern size. It presents empirical correlations for the mixing variables and discusses the effects of operating and design parameters on the mixing and mass transfer process. Furthermore, this paper demonstrates the advantages of employing computational fluid dynamics tools to shed light on the hydrodynamics of this complex flow. The literature review shows that knowledge gaps remain for gas dispersion in yield stress fluids and non-Newtonian fluids with viscoelastic effects. In addition, comprehensive studies accounting for the scale-up of these mixing processes still need to be accomplished. Hence, further investigation of the flow patterns under different process and design conditions are valuable to have an appropriate insight into this complex system.
The Association of Tanacetum parthenium and Salix alba Extracts Reduces Cortex Serotonin Turnover, in an Ex Vivo Experimental Model of Migraine
Authors: Di Simone Simonetta , Acquaviva Alessandra , Libero Maria , Chiavaroli Annalisa , Recinella Lucia , Leone Sheila , Brunetti Luigi , Politi Matteo , Giannone Claudia , Campana Claudia , Orlando Giustino , Zengin Gokhan , Tacchini Massimo , Menghini Luigi , Ferrante Claudio
Published: January 2022

The mixture of water extracts from Tanacetum parthenium and Salix alba was studied in an ex vivo assessment of neurotoxicity constituted by isolated mouse cortex specimens challenged with K+ 60 mM Krebs–Ringer buffer (neurotoxicity stimulus). The effects of the mixture on lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), nitrite and serotonin levels were investigated. The phytochemical profile of the mixture was also evaluated. A docking approach was conducted to predict, albeit partially, the putative mechanism underlying the observed effects. The extracts displayed a good profile of polyphenolic compounds (22 chromatographic peaks detected), with caftaric acid and epicatechin being the prominent phenols. In isolated cortex, the association of T. parthenium and S. alba extracts was effective in reducing the K+ 60 mM-induced levels of LDH and nitrites, whereas the neurotoxicity stimulus-induced serotonin depletion was prevented by the treatment. Regarding the inhibition of serotonin catabolism, epicatechin (44.65 µg/mg) and caftaric acid (10.51 µg/mg) were putatively the main compounds involved in the inhibition of monoamineoxidase-A, which is known to play a master role in serotonin turnover. Collectively, the results of the present study point to the efficacy of the present extract mixture as an innovative pharmacological tool to prevent the onset of migraine.
The Application of Response Surface Methodology for 2,4,6-Trichlorophenol Removal from Aqueous Solution Using Synthesized Zn2+-Al3+-Tartrate Layered Double Hydroxides
Authors: Su Ting , Gao Wenwen , Gao Yanli , Ma Xiangrong , Gao Liguo , Song Yonghui
Published: January 2022

Trichlorophenols are on the US environmental protection agency’s list of priority pollutants due to their serious damage to water safety. With the aim of adsorbing the 2,4,6-trichlorophenol (2,4,6-TCP), Zn2+-Al3+-tartrate layered double hydroxides (Zn2+-Al3+-C4H4O62−-LDHs) adsorbent was synthesized via homogeneous precipitation method. X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), Fourier infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS) were used to characterize Zn2+-Al3+-C4H4O62−-LDHs. The concentration of 2,4,6-TCP was determined using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Zn2+-Al3+-C4H4O62−-LDHs exhibited a good adsorption performance of 2,4,6-trichlorophenol, since a bigger layer spacing of Zn2+-Al3+-C4H4O62−-LDHs was obtained than that in Zn2+-Al3+-CO32−-LDHs. Adsorption parameters of adsorption temperature, contact time, adsorbent dosage, and solution pH were investigated, the initial concentration of 2,4,6-TCP was 2.0 g/L. Response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to provide an investigative approach towards optimization of the adsorption process. The highest removal rate of 89.94% and the average removal rate of 88.74% were achieved under a temperature of 20.0 °C, a contact time of 2.5 h, an adsorbent dosage of 0.15 g, and a solution pH of 3. the capacity of the adsorbent is 599.6 mg/g. Meanwhile, the reusable properties of Zn2+-Al3+-C4H4O62−-LDHs were evaluated by the same adsorption system, and the removal rate of 2,4,6-TCP was 85.57% at the fifth regeneration. The obtained results confirmed that the Zn2+-Al3+-C4H4O62−-LDHs can be used as a potential introduction in practical applications for the removal of 2,4,6-TCP.
Introduction to the Special Issue “Re-Interpreting the Qur’an in the 21st Century”
Authors: Tottoli Roberto
Published: January 2022

The number of books and articles on the Qur’an has become significant in recent decades [...]
Encountering God in “The Circle”: Examining the Grand Ole Opry as a Religious Experience through the Lens of Circular Theology
Authors: Hunt Jodi
Published: January 2022

Although many religious experiences occur within the walls of churches, mosques, synagogues, etc. and the sacred spaces that surround them, many more are encountered in the secular spaces and experiences of our everyday lives. Working out of the critical correlative method of theological reflection and circular theology, this paper proposes that the community, pilgrimage, and storytelling aspects of the Grand Ole Opry offers poignant opportunities for religious meaning making or inspired paths in connecting people to the sacred, no matter their religious background or upbringing. It is out of this exploration that the Grand Ole Opry arises to be a religious experience.
Sensitivity of Green-Up Date to Meteorological Indicators in Hulun Buir Grasslands of China
Authors: Guo Jian , Yang Xiuchun , Jiang Weiguo , Chen Fan , Zhang Min , Xing Xiaoyu , Chen Ang , Yun Peng , Jiang Liwei , Yang Dong , Xu Bin
Published: January 2022

Temperature and precipitation are considered to be the most important indicators affecting the green-up date. Sensitivity of the green-up date to temperature and precipitation is considered to be one of the key indicators to characterize the response of terrestrial ecosystems to climate change. We selected the main grassland types for analysis, including temperate steppe, temperate meadow steppe, upland meadow, and lowland meadow. This study investigates the variation in key meteorological indicators (daily maximum temperature (Tmax), daily minimum temperature (Tmin), and precipitation) between 2001 and 2018. We then examined the partial correlation and sensitivity of green-up date (GUD) to Tmax, Tmin, and precipitation. Our analysis indicated that the average GUD across the whole area was DOY 113. The mean GUD trend was −3.1 days/decade and the 25% region advanced significantly. Tmax and Tmin mainly showed a decreasing trend in winter (p > 0.05). In spring, Tmax mainly showed an increasing trend (p > 0.05) and Tmin a decreasing trend (p > 0.05). Precipitation showed no significant (p > 0.05) change trend and the trend range was ±10 mm/decade. For temperate steppe, the increase in Tmin in March promotes green-up (27.3%, the proportion of significant pixels), with a sensitivity of −0.17 days/°C. In addition, precipitation in April also promotes green-up (21.7%), with a sensitivity of −0.32 days/mm. The GUDs of temperate meadow steppe (73.9%), lowland meadow (65.9%), and upland meadow (22.1%) were mainly affected by Tmin in March, with sensitivities of −0.15 days/°C, −0.13 days/°C, and −0.14 days/°C, respectively. The results of this study reveal the response of vegetation to climate warming and contribute to improving the prediction of ecological changes as temperatures increase in the future.
Chest Exercises: Movement and Loading of Shoulder, Elbow and Wrist Joints
Authors: Schütz Pascal , Zimmer Pia , Zeidler Fabian , Plüss Michael , Oberhofer Katja , List Renate , Lorenzetti Silvio Rene
Published: January 2022

Injuries to the shoulder are very common in sports that involve overhead arm or throwing movements. Strength training of the chest muscles has the potential to protect the shoulder from injury. Kinematic and kinetic data were acquired in 20 healthy subjects (age: 24.9 ± 2.7 years) using motion capture, force plates for the bench press exercises and load cells in the cable for the cable pulley exercises with 15% and 30% of body weight (BW). Joint ranges of motion (RoM) and joint moments at the shoulder, elbow and wrist were derived using an inverse dynamics approach. The maximum absolute moments at the shoulder joint were significantly larger for the cable pulley exercises than for the bench press exercises. The cable cross-over exercise resulted in substantially different joint angles and loading patterns compared to most other exercises, with higher fluctuations during the exercise cycle. The present results indicate that a combination of bench press and cable pulley exercises are best to train the full RoM and, thus, intra-muscular coordination across the upper limbs. Care has to be taken when performing cable cross-over exercises to ensure proper stabilisation of the joints during exercise execution and avoid joint overloading.
The Role of Education and Income Inequality on Environmental Quality: A Panel Data Analysis of the EKC Hypothesis on OECD Countries
Authors: Maranzano Paolo , Cerdeira Bento João Paulo , Manera Matteo
Published: January 2022

This study examines the impact of education on the pollution–income relationship, controlling for income inequality in 17 European OECD countries over the period 1950–2015. We developed a novel two-stage algorithm, whose first step consists in applying clustering techniques to group countries according to the income inequality temporal pattern. In the second step, we estimate the educational-mitigated EKC hypothesis (Educational EKC) by employing panel regression techniques accounting for endogeneity issues. The clustering findings suggest the existence of high variability in income inequality levels across countries and heterogeneous development patterns. Empirical estimates highlight that, for high income inequality countries, the Educational EKC hypothesis holds, and that the emissions–income elasticity appears to decline when including the schooling level. In the low income inequality cluster, these effects are not clear-cut. For these countries, we propose a different specification of the EKC, which substitutes the income per capita term with the years of schooling. The new specification is statistically validated for both high income inequality and low income inequality countries. In conclusion, we can state that education should be addressed as a crucial cornerstone to shaping the EKC curve.
Employee Recognition, Task Performance, and OCB: Mediated and Moderated by Pride
Authors: Yang Tianfei , Jiang Xia , Cheng Huan
Published: January 2022

Employee recognition, an incentive approach often used in management practice, plays an important role in organizations. In comparison to other incentive methods, employee recognition does not focus on the amount of money and material, but it does recognize employees and their achievements and values in the workplace. We would like to reveal the outcome and emotional mechanism of employee recognition in this work. Based on the broaden-and-build theory, we explored the role of the emotion pride on the relationship between employee recognition with task performance and OCB. Using a cross-section sampling approach, 256 valid questionnaires from 58 groups by the leader-member dyad method were collected. SPSS20.0 and Amos21.0 were used to perform the data analysis and verify the hypothesis. The results showed that: (1) Employee recognition has a significantly positive effect on task performance and OCB. (2) Authentic pride mediates the relationship between employee recognition with (a) task performance and (b) OCB. (3) Hubristic pride positively moderates the relationship between employee recognition with (a) task performance and (b) OCB. In conclusion, this study reveals the emotional response and behavioral results of employee recognition by focusing on the role of pride in the path of employee recognition with task performance and OCB.
Financing Sustainability in the Arts Sector: The Case of the Art Bonus Public Crowdfunding Campaign in Italy
Authors: Donelli Chiara Carolina , Mozzoni Isabella , Badia Francesco , Fanelli Simone
Published: January 2022

This paper addresses the conditions that can facilitate the long-term effectiveness of civic crowdfunding fundraising strategies. While previous studies have provided a broad picture of the possible conditions for fostering effective fundraising strategies, most have considered the implications of fundraising only for management or only for cultural policy, neglecting an integrated approach that contemplates the needs of both. Thus, this work integrates cultural management and cultural policy perspectives by discussing a specific exploratory case study: Art Bonus, a cultural patronage tax incentive strategy introduced by the Italian government in 2014, which also includes civic crowdfunding features. To the best of our knowledge, Art Bonus is the first national civic crowdfunding platform supported by a national government. As an innovative and unique platform, its analysis is particularly relevant. This work analyzes the system’s functioning and the results obtained in its first years of operation (2014–2016) by accessing the public database relating to the donations transited through the platform. While the initiative effectively channeled more fundraising resources into the cultural sector, the results also illustrate potential points for improving such a system.
Manufacturing, Exports, and Sustainable Growth: Evidence from Developing Countries
Authors: Wan Xi , Kazmi Shehla Anjum Ajaz , Wong Chun Yee
Published: January 2022

Using data for 130 developing countries over a 24 year period from 1996 to 2019, this study investigates the role of manufacturing development in sustainable growth and how the contribution of the manufacturing sector to growth is affected by exports and the underlying export-oriented policies. By employing a vintage difference GMM estimation developed by Arellano and Bond (1991), we find that the manufacturing sector positively contributes to economic growth in developing countries, whereas exports (and thus, their related growth policies) lead to deindustrialization and are thus harmful to growth. In addition, we find that this export-led deindustrialization and the resulting negative growth effect might differ depending on a country’s stage of development measured in terms of the per capita income level. In particular, the growth of countries with lower income levels is more severely negatively impacted than in the case of the richer countries, which is consistent with the findings in the literature. Finally, our main results are robust under two alternative regression checks in which we take into account the potential endogeneity problem and additionally control for the share of imports in GDP in the model.
A Process Model for Cooperative Risk Management in Seaports
Authors: Nagi Ayman , Kersten Wolfgang
Published: January 2022

Seaports are critical links within supply chains that are often located near residential areas. These seaports can be directly affected by the consequences of operational risk sources and natural disasters such as undeclared dangerous goods and flood, respectively. The diversity and large number of stakeholders at seaports add another level of complexity for risk management that requires a standard approach and clear guidelines. This paper aims to develop a prescriptive process model for cooperative risk management (CoRiMaS) in seaports to enable the stakeholder to manage different sources of risk during risk prevention and response. The prescriptive process model builds on two previous published papers which focused on developing a conceptual framework and a descriptive model based on an ontology for CoRiMaS, respectively. A detailed requirement analysis based on focus groups and a survey study in the Baltic Sea Region (BSR) provide important inputs to integrate the required elements into the CoRiMaS prescriptive process model. The model requires an overall input represented by the type of seaport and structure. The prescriptive process model presents all steps and aspects related to stakeholder analysis, risk governance, risk management, and knowledge management. Implications for theory and practice, as well as an agenda for future research, are presented.
Consumers’ Continuous Use Intention of O2O E-Commerce Platform on Community: A Value Co-Creation Perspective
Authors: Zhu Yongming , Wei Yaru , Zhou Zhihao , Jiang Hongbing
Published: January 2022

With the advent of the post-epidemic era, O2O e-commerce on community breaks through the original business model and forms a new online-to-offline integrated business model. This study is based on the value co-creation perspective and the TAM-TPB theory systematically builds a theoretical model of consumers’ continuous use intention of O2O e-commerce on the community. A structural equation model (SEM) was used to verify the research hypotheses. The research results were as follows: (1) the subjective norms and structural assurance in social factors have a positive impact on consumers’ continuous use intention; (2) the degree of convenience and safety in platform factors not only positively affect customer satisfaction but also positively affect customers’ continuous use intension, and customer satisfaction mediates between platform factors and customers’ continuous use intension; (3) customer–enterprise co-creation has a positive impact on customer perceived value, and customer perceived value plays a mediating role between customer–enterprise co-creation behavior and consumers’ willingness to continue using; (4) customer perceived value and customer satisfaction in the user factor have a significant impact on consumers’ continuous use intention.
Correction: Yalcin, F.; Simsek, Y. A New Class of Symmetric Beta Type Distributions Constructed by Means of Symmetric Bernstein Type Basis Functions. Symmetry 2020, 12, 779
Authors: Yalcin Fusun , Simsek Yilmaz
Published: January 2022

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