bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hybrid Modeling of Machine Learning and Phenomenological Model for Predicting the Biomass Gasification Process in Supercritical Water for Hydrogen Production
Authors: dos Santos Junior Julles Mitoura , Zelioli Ícaro Augusto Maccari , Mariano Adriano Pinto
Published: May 2023

Process monitoring and forecasting are essential to ensure the efficiency of industrial processes. Although it is possible to model processes using phenomenological approaches, these are not always easy to apply and generalize due to the complexity of the processes and the high number of unknown parameters. This work aims to present a hybrid modeling architecture that combines a phenomenological model with machine learning models. The proposal is to enable the use of simplified phenomenological models to explain the basic principles behind a phenomenon. Next, the data-oriented model corrects deviations from the simplified model predictions. The research hypothesis consists of showing the benefits of integrating prior knowledge of chemical engineering in simplifying data-based models, enhancing their generalization and improving their interpretability. The gasification process of lignin biomass with supercritical water was used as a case study for this methodology and the variable to be observed was the production of hydrogen. The real experimental data of this process were augmented using Gibbs energy minimization with the Peng–Robinson equation of state, thus generating a more voluminous database that was considered as real process data. The ideal gas model was used as a simplified model, producing significant deviations in predictions (relative deviations greater than 20%). Deviations (∆H2 = H2real−H2predict) were used as the target variable for the machine learning model. Linear regression models (LASSO and simple linear regression) were used to predict ∆H2 and this variable was added to the simplified forecast model. This consisted of the hybrid prediction of the resulting hydrogen formation (H2predict). Among the verified models, the simple linear regression adjusted better to the values of ∆H2 (R2 = 0.985) and MAE smaller than 0.1. Thus, the proposed hybrid architecture allowed for the prediction of the formation of hydrogen during the gasification process of lignin biomass, despite the thermodynamic limitations of the ideal gas model. Hybridization proved to be robust as a process monitoring tool, providing the abstraction of non-idealities of industrial processes through simple, data-oriented models, without losing predictive power. The objective of the work was fulfilled, presenting a new possibility for the monitoring of real industrial processes.
Differences in Some Physical and Chemical Properties of Beechwood with False Heartwood, Mature Wood and Sapwood
Authors: Dzurenda Ladislav , Dudiak Michal , Kučerová Viera
Published: May 2023

The article presents the differences in some physical and chemical properties of wood with false heartwood, mature wood, and sapwood of Fagus sylvatica L.: density of wood in the dry state, color in the color space CIE L*a*b* on the tangential surface and the planed surface at w = 10 ± 0.5%, as well as moisture and acidity of wet wood. As part of chemical analyses, the relative proportion of cellulose, hemicelluloses, lignin, and extractive substances in individual zones of beechwood in trunks with false heartwood was determined. From the carried out analyses, it follows that the biggest difference between the wood of false heartwood, mature wood, and sapwood is the color of the wood. The red-brown color of the wood with false heartwood in the color space CIE L*a*b* is described by the following coordinate values: L* = 64.9 ± 4.9; a* = 12.9 ± 1.4; b* = 19.6 ± 1.7. The most significant differences between the values of the color space are on the lightness coordinate, where the light ochre-white of mature wood shows a decrease of ∆L* = −14.0 compared with the color of false heartwood, and the white—pale grey color of sapwood shows a decrease of ∆L* = −17.5. The density of dry beechwood with false heartwood is higher by ∆ρ0 = 4.7% than the density of mature wood, and the density of sapwood is ∆ρ0 = 12.3% lower than the density of wood with false heartwood. The exact opposite applies to the acidity of wet beechwood. The results of wet wood acidity measurements also point to certain differences. While the acidity of the wet wood of false heartwood is pH = 5.32 ± 0.13, the acidity of the sapwood is 5.1% lower. The higher acidity of beech heartwood is attributed to the presence of organic acids in polyphenols during heartwood formation. From the comparison of the representation of cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, and extractive substances, it follows that the relative content of lignin and hemicelluloses is higher in false heartwood than in mature wood and sapwood. On the contrary, the content of holocellulose and cellulose is highest in sapwood. The presented divisions in the physical and chemical properties of beechwood with false heartwood do not limit the use of beechwood in industrial applications, except for a change in color; the definition of color boundaries in the color space CIE L*a*b* creates space for sorting beechwood according to color and can be used to increase the color variety of compositions of construction-carpentry products.
Chronic Exclusion of Fire in Longleaf Pine Stands of an Urban Interface: The University of West Florida Campus Ecosystem Study
Authors: Gilliam Frank S.
Published: May 2023

The dependence of longleaf pine (Pinus palustris) ecosystems on fire is well-understood, and the anthropogenic alteration of fire cycles within its natural range has contributed to its decline. This has been increasingly exacerbated in areas of urban interfaces, wherein the use of prescribed fire can be problematic. The purpose of this study—the University of West Florida Campus Ecosystem Study—was to examine the effects of fire exclusion on longleaf pine in the unique urban interface of a university campus. This was an interconnected series of investigations on the main campus and three associated natural areas that comprised remnant longleaf stands following the cessation of widespread longleaf pine harvesting—120 years ago. This period of chronic fire exclusion allowed for a distinct shift in the stand structure and composition. The open, savanna-like structure of fire-maintained longleaf stands has transitioned into closed-canopy forests with the increased prevalence of southern evergreen oaks (especially live oak—Quercus virginiana) and Magnolia spp., resulting in the complete absence of longleaf regeneration. Fire exclusion also appeared to decrease soil fertility. The significant variation in the mean age of longleaf pine stems on the main campus; natural areas suggest that these natural areas were likely under separate ownership with contrasting land-use history prior to its purchase by the State of Florida for campus construction in 1963.
Purification and Identification of EPS Produced by Five Lactic Acid Bacteria and Evaluation of Their Effects on the Texture of Fermented Goat Milk
Authors: Liu Gengdian , Shu Guowei , Wang Jiansheng , Wang Zhanmin , Liu Yu , Li Yilin , Chen Li
Published: May 2023

Extracellular polysaccharide (EPS) produced by five lactic acid bacteria (Limosilactobacillus fermentum B55, Limosilactobacillus fermentum B62, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum 7830, Pediococcus acidilactici B30, and Lactobacillus helveticus K2) were purified and identified, and their effects on the texture of fermented goat milk were evaluated. The purified EPS fractions EPS 1a, EPS 2b, EPS 3c, EPS 4d, and EPS 5e of strains B62, 7830, K2, B55, and B30 were obtained with ion exchange chromatography, and their molecular weights were 2.41 × 104, 1.62 × 104, 6.42 × 103, 6.45 × 103, and 1.26 × 104 Da, found using gel permeation chromatography. The infrared spectrum results showed that these substances all contained polysaccharide characteristic absorption peaks, most of which contained O-H bonds, C-H bonds, hydroxyl and carboxyl bonds, and groups. The analysis of monosaccharide composition presented that EPS1a was composed of guluronic acid, rhamnose, and galactose, with a molar ratio of 2.7:1:2.4; EPS2b and EPS3c were composed of guluronic acid; EPS4d was composed of guluronic acid, glucose, and galactose, with a molar ratio of 1:1.1:1.2; and EPS5e was composed of glucose and galactose, with a molar ratio of 1.6:1, indicating the differences in the composition and structure of EPS produced by various strains. Compared with the control group that only had the starter added, adding EPS-producing strains could promote acid production and improve the texture of fermented goat milk, and its acidity, hardness, consistency, viscosity, and viscosity index were higher.
How Can We Achieve Query Keyword Frequency Analysis in Privacy-Preserving Situations?
Authors: Zhu Yiming , Zhou Dehua , Li Yuan , Song Beibei , Wang Chuansheng
Published: May 2023

Recently, significant progress has been made in the field of public key encryption with keyword search (PEKS), with a focus on optimizing search methods and improving the security and efficiency of schemes. Keyword frequency analysis is a powerful tool for enhancing retrieval services in explicit databases. However, designing a PEKS scheme that integrates keyword frequency analysis while preserving privacy and security has remained challenging, as it may conflict with some of the security principles of PEKS. In this paper, we propose an innovative scheme that introduces a security deadline to query trapdoors through the use of timestamps. This means that the keywords in the query trapdoor can only be recovered after the security deadline has passed. This approach allows for keyword frequency analysis of query keywords without compromising data privacy and user privacy, while also providing protection against keyword-guessing attacks through the dual-server architecture of our scheme. Moreover, our scheme supports multi-keyword queries in multi-user scenarios and is highly scalable. Finally, we evaluate the computational and communication efficiency of our scheme, demonstrating its feasibility in practical applications.
The Properties of Meromorphic Multivalent q-Starlike Functions in the Janowski Domain
Authors: Al-Shbeil Isra , Gong Jianhua , Ray Samrat , Khan Shahid , Khan Nazar , Alaqad Hala
Published: May 2023

Many researchers have defined the q-analogous of differential and integral operators for analytic functions using the concept of quantum calculus in the geometric function theory. In this study, we conduct a comprehensive investigation to identify the uses of the Sălăgean q-differential operator for meromorphic multivalent functions. Many features of functions that belong to geometrically defined classes have been extensively studied using differential operators based on q-calculus operator theory. In this research, we extended the idea of the q-analogous of the Sălăgean differential operator for meromorphic multivalent functions using the fundamental ideas of q-calculus. With the help of this operator, we extend the family of Janowski functions by adding two new subclasses of meromorphic q-starlike and meromorphic multivalent q-starlike functions. We discover significant findings for these new classes, including the radius of starlikeness, partial sums, distortion theorems, and coefficient estimates.
Semi-Solid Dosage Forms Containing Pranoprofen-Loaded NLC as Topical Therapy for Local Inflammation: In Vitro, Ex Vivo and In Vivo Evaluation
Authors: Ahmadi Negar , Rincón María , Silva-Abreu Marcelle , Sosa Lilian , Pesantez-Narvaez Jessica , Calpena Ana Cristina , Rodríguez-Lagunas María J. , Mallandrich Mireia
Published: May 2023

Pranoprofen (PRA)-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) have been dispersed into blank gels composed of 1% of Carbomer 940 (PRA-NLC-Car) and 3% of Sepigel® 305 (PRA-NLC-Sep) as a novel strategy to refine the biopharmaceutical profile of PRA, for dermal administration in the treatment of skin inflammation that may be caused by possible skin abrasion. This stratagem intends to improve the joining of PRA with the skin, improving its retention and anti-inflammatory effect. Gels were evaluated for various parameters such as pH, morphology, rheology, and swelling. In vitro drug release research and ex vivo permeation through the skin were carried out on Franz diffusion cells. Additionally, in vivo assays were carried out to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effect, and tolerance studies were performed in humans by evaluating the biomechanical properties. Results showed a rheological profile common of semi-solid pharmaceutical forms for dermal application, with sustained release up to 24 h. In vivo studies using PRA-NLC-Car and PRA-NLC-Sep in Mus musculus mice and hairless rats histologically demonstrated their efficacy in an inflammatory animal model study. No signs of skin irritation or modifications of the skin’s biophysical properties were identified and the gels were well tolerated. The results obtained from this investigation concluded that the developed semi-solid formulations represent a fitting drug delivery carrier for PRA’s transdermal delivery, enhancing its dermal retention and suggesting that they can be utilized as an interesting and effective topical treatment for local skin inflammation caused by a possible abrasion.
A Comparison of Non-Destructive Visceral Swab and Tissue Biopsy Sampling Methods for Genotyping-by-Sequencing in the Freshwater Mussel Fusconaia askewi
Authors: Harrison Matthew , Sotola V. Alex , Zalmat Alexander , Sullivan Kyle T. , Littrell Bradley M. , Bonner Timothy H. , Martin Noland H.
Published: May 2023

Limiting harm to organisms caused by genetic sampling is an important consideration for rare species, and a number of non-destructive sampling techniques have been developed to address this issue in freshwater mussels. Two methods, visceral swabbing and tissue biopsies, have proven to be effective for DNA sampling, though it is unclear as to which method is preferable for genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS). Tissue biopsies may cause undue stress and damage to organisms, while visceral swabbing potentially reduces the chance of such harm. Our study compared the efficacy of these two DNA sampling methods for generating GBS data for the unionid freshwater mussel, the Texas pigtoe (Fusconaia askewi). Our results find both methods generate quality sequence data, though some considerations are in order. Tissue biopsies produced significantly higher DNA concentrations and larger numbers of reads when compared with swabs, though there was no significant association between starting DNA concentration and number of reads generated. Swabbing produced greater sequence depth (more reads per sequence), while tissue biopsies revealed greater coverage across the genome (at lower sequence depth). Patterns of genomic variation as characterized in principal component analyses were similar regardless of the sampling method, suggesting that the less invasive swabbing is a viable option for producing quality GBS data in these organisms.
Whole Genome Resequencing Helps Study Important Traits in Chickens
Authors: Xiong Xinwei , Liu Jianxiang , Rao Yousheng
Published: May 2023

The emergence of high-throughput sequencing technology promotes life science development, provides technical support to analyze many life mechanisms, and presents new solutions to previously unsolved problems in genomic research. Resequencing technology has been widely used for genome selection and research on chicken population structure, genetic diversity, evolutionary mechanisms, and important economic traits caused by genome sequence differences since the release of chicken genome sequence information. This article elaborates on the factors influencing whole genome resequencing and the differences between these factors and whole genome sequencing. It reviews the important research progress in chicken qualitative traits (e.g., frizzle feather and comb), quantitative traits (e.g., meat quality and growth traits), adaptability, and disease resistance, and provides a theoretical basis to study whole genome resequencing in chickens.
‘Is This the Real Me? What Is the Real Me?’: Deconstructing Authenticity in Aline Kominsky-Crumb’s Need More Love
Authors: Brauner David
Published: May 2023

In spite of being a central figure in the underground comix scene, a trailblazer in the field of female-authored comics, and one of the progenitors of the graphic memoir, there has been relatively little scholarship on Aline Kominsky-Crumb. For much of her career, she was in the shadow of her husband, Robert Crumb, an iconic figure of the counterculture, and any attention she has received for her own work tended to be marred by condescension or predicated on the naïve assumption that, as Susan Kirtley claims, it ‘showcase[s] a raw, unvarnished authenticity’. It also tended to ignore her writing, focusing almost exclusively on her artwork. In this essay, I analyse her anthology, Need More Love, paying particular attention to the nuances of its uses of text, to argue that Kominsky-Crumb’s work might be read as a sustained, self-reflexive interrogation of the idea of authenticity.
Healthcare Workers’ Perceptions on the “SaferBirths Bundle of Care”: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Mdoe Paschal , Mduma Estomih , Rivenes Lafontan Sara , Ersdal Hege , Massay Catherine , Daudi Vickfarajaeli , Kayera Damas , Mwashemela Shally , Moshiro Robert , Kamala Benjamin
Published: May 2023

Background: SaferBirths Bundle of Care (SBBC) is a package of innovative clinical and training tools coupled with low-dose high-frequency simulation-based on-job training guided by local data. This bundle of care is a new initiative being implemented in 30 health facilities from five regions of Tanzania aiming at improving birth outcomes. Objective: To assess the perception of healthcare workers and facility leaders on the “SaferBirths Bundle of Care” towards saving women’s and newborns’ lives at birth. Method: We used a qualitative approach using focused group discussion (FGD) and individual interviews. A total of 21 FGD and 43 individual interviews were conducted between August and November 2022. In total, 94 midwives and 12 doctors were involved, some of whom were in leadership roles. The framework method for the analysis of qualitative data was used for analysis. Results: Healthcare workers and facility leaders received the bundle well and regarded it as effective in saving lives and improving healthcare provision. Five themes emerged as facilitators to the acceptance of the bundle: (1) the bundle is appropriate to our needs, (2) the training modality and data use fit our context, (3) use of champions and periodic mentorship, (4) learning from our mistakes, and (5) clinical and training tools are of high quality but can be further improved. Conclusion: The relevance of SaferBirths Bundle of Care in addressing maternal and perinatal deaths, the quality and modality of training, and the culture that enhances learning from mistakes were among the facilitators of the acceptability of the SBBC. A well-accepted intervention has huge potential for bringing the intended impact in health provision.
Frailty Syndrome as a Transition from Compensation to Decompensation: Application to the Biomechanical Regulation of Gait
Authors: Álvarez-Millán Lesli , Castillo-Castillo Daniel , Quispe-Siccha Rosa , Pérez-Pacheco Argelia , Angelova Maia , Rivera-Sánchez Jesús , Fossion Ruben
Published: May 2023

Most gait parameters decrease with age and are even more importantly reduced with frailty. However, other gait parameters exhibit different or even opposite trends for aging and frailty, and the underlying reason is unclear. Literature focuses either on aging, or on frailty, and a comprehensive understanding of how biomechanical gait regulation evolves with aging and with frailty seems to be lacking. We monitored gait dynamics in young adults (19–29 years, n = 27, 59% women), middle-aged adults (30–59 years, n = 16, 62% women), and non-frail (>60 years, n = 15, 33% women) and frail older adults (>60 years, n = 31, 71% women) during a 160 m walking test using the triaxial accelerometer of the Zephyr Bioharness 3.0 device (Zephyr Technology, Annapolis, MD, USA). Frailty was evaluated using the Frail Scale (FS) and the Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS). We found that in non-frail older adults, certain gait parameters, such as cadence, were increased, whereas other parameters, such as step length, were decreased, and gait speed is maintained. Conversely, in frail older adults, all gait parameters, including gait speed, were decreased. Our interpretation is that non-frail older adults compensate for a decreased step length with an increased cadence to maintain a functional gait speed, whereas frail older adults decompensate and consequently walk with a characteristic decreased gait speed. We quantified compensation and decompensation on a continuous scale using ratios of the compensated parameter with respect to the corresponding compensating parameter. Compensation and decompensation are general medical concepts that can be applied and quantified for many, if not all, biomechanical and physiological regulatory mechanisms of the human body. This may allow for a new research strategy to quantify both aging and frailty in a systemic and dynamic way.
Resveratrol Enhances Temozolomide Efficacy in Glioblastoma Cells through Downregulated MGMT and Negative Regulators-Related STAT3 Inactivation
Authors: Wu Moli , Song Danyang , Li Hui , Ahmad Nisar , Xu Hong , Yang Xiaobo , Wang Qian , Cheng Xiaoxin , Deng Sa , Shu Xiaohong
Published: May 2023

Chemoresistance blunts the efficacy of temozolomide (TMZ) in the treatment of glioblastoma (GBM). Elevated levels of O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) and activation of signal transducer and of transcription 3 (STAT3) have been reported to correlate with GBM resistance to alkylator chemotherapy. Resveratrol (Res) inhibits tumor growth and improves drug chemosensitivity by targeting STAT3 signaling. Whether the combined therapy of TMZ and Res could enhance chemosensitivity against GBM cells and the underlying molecular mechanism remains to be determined. In this study, Res was found to effectively improve chemosensitivities of different GBM cells to TMZ, which was evaluated by CCK-8, flow cytometry, and cell migration assay. The combined use of Res and TMZ downregulated STAT3 activity and STAT3-regulated gene products, thus inhibited cell proliferation and migration, as well as induced apoptosis, accompanied by increased levels of its negative regulators: PIAS3, SHP1, SHP2, and SOCS3. More importantly, a combination therapy of Res and TMZ reversed TMZ resistance of LN428 cells, which could be related to decreased MGMT and STAT3 levels. Furthermore, the JAK2-specific inhibitor AG490 was used to demonstrate that a reduced MGMT level was mediated by STAT3 inactivation. Taken together, Res inhibited STAT3 signaling through modulation of PIAS3, SHP1, SHP2, and SOCS3, thereby attenuating tumor growth and increasing sensitivity to TMZ. Therefore, Res is an ideal candidate to be used in TMZ combined chemotherapy for GBM.
The Epidermal Transcriptome Analysis of a Novel c.639_642dup LORICRIN Variant-Delineation of the Loricrin Keratoderma Pathology
Authors: Wertheim-Tysarowska Katarzyna , Osipowicz Katarzyna , Gielniewski Bartłomiej , Wojtaś Bartosz , Szabelska-Beręsewicz Alicja , Zyprych-Walczak Joanna , Mika Adriana , Tysarowski Andrzej , Duk Katarzyna , Rygiel Agnieszka Magdalena , Niepokój Katarzyna , Woźniak Katarzyna , Kowalewski Cezary , Wierzba Jolanta , Jezela-Stanek Aleksandra
Published: May 2023

Loricrin keratoderma (LK) is a rare autosomal dominant genodermatosis caused by LORICRIN gene mutations. The pathogenesis of the disease is not yet fully understood. So far, only 10 pathogenic variants in LORICRIN have been described, with all of them but one being deletions or insertions. The significance of rare nonsense variants remains unclear. Furthermore, no data regarding the RNA expression in affected patients are available. The aim of this study is to describe the two variants in the LORICRIN gene found in two distinct families: the novel pathogenic variant c.639_642dup and a rare c.10C > T (p.Gln4Ter) of unknown significance. We also present the results of the transcriptome analysis of the lesional loricrin keratoderma epidermis of a patient with c.639_642dup. We show that in the LK lesion, the genes associated with epidermis development and keratocyte differentiation are upregulated, while genes engaged in cell adhesion, differentiation developmental processes, ion homeostasis and transport, signaling and cell communication are downregulated. In the context of the p.Gln4Ter clinical significance evaluation, we provide data indicating that LORICRIN haploinsufficiency has no skin consequences. Our results give further insight into the pathogenesis of LK, which may have therapeutic implications in the future and important significance in the context of genetic counseling.
Conjunctive Analyses of BSA-Seq and BSR-Seq to Identify Candidate Genes Controlling the Black Lemma and Pericarp Trait in Barley
Authors: Liu Yajie , Chen Pengzheng , Li Wenshuo , Liu Xinchun , Yu Guowu , Zhao Hui , Zeng Shuhua , Li Mao , Sun Genlou , Feng Zongyun
Published: May 2023

Black barley seeds are a health-beneficial diet resource because of their special chemical composition and antioxidant properties. The black lemma and pericarp (BLP) locus was mapped in a genetic interval of 0.807 Mb on chromosome 1H, but its genetic basis remains unknown. In this study, targeted metabolomics and conjunctive analyses of BSA-seq and BSR-seq were used to identify candidate genes of BLP and the precursors of black pigments. The results revealed that five candidate genes, purple acid phosphatase, 3-ketoacyl-CoA synthase 11, coiled-coil domain-containing protein 167, subtilisin-like protease, and caffeic acid-O-methyltransferase, of the BLP locus were identified in the 10.12 Mb location region on the 1H chromosome after differential expression analysis, and 17 differential metabolites, including the precursor and repeating unit of allomelanin, were accumulated in the late mike stage of black barley. Phenol nitrogen-free precursors such as catechol (protocatechuic aldehyde) or catecholic acids (caffeic, protocatechuic, and gallic acids) may promote black pigmentation. BLP can manipulate the accumulation of benzoic acid derivatives (salicylic acid, 2,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid, gallic acid, gentisic acid, protocatechuic acid, syringic acid, vanillic acid, protocatechuic aldehyde, and syringaldehyde) through the shikimate/chorismite pathway other than the phenylalanine pathway and alter the metabolism of the phenylpropanoid-monolignol branch. Collectively, it is reasonable to infer that black pigmentation in barley is due to allomelanin biosynthesis in the lemma and pericarp, and BLP regulates melanogenesis by manipulating the biosynthesis of its precursors.
Multiparametric Cardiac Magnetic Resonance and Arrhythmias in Myocarditis
Authors: Matusik Patrycja S. , Popiela Tadeusz J. , Darma Angeliki , Gul Enes E. , Matusik Paweł T.
Published: May 2023

Myocarditis is an inflammatory disease of the myocardium with a wide range of potential etiological factors, including a variety of infectious agents (mainly viral), systemic diseases, drugs, and toxins
One-Dimensional Strain Research of Coral Mud Based on a Modified Burgers Model Considering Stress History
Authors: Shen Yang , Weng He , Ma Ke , Deng Jue
Published: May 2023

Coral mud is a special rock and sediment mass and is widely distributed in the South China Sea. Studying the deformation of coral mud is important for infrastructure development in the South China Sea. When choosing a model to describe the long-term deformation of coral mud, it is difficult for a simple nonlinear deformation model to accurately and universally describe the complex deformation processes of the sediment; a complex model is too time-consuming and difficult to apply to practical engineering. In this article, based on a classical element model, the Burgers model, certain elements are modified in combination with one-dimensional oedometer tests under normally consolidated situations. Then, combined with an unloading and reloading test, the modified Burgers model is further improved, and a modified Burgers model considering stress history is obtained. The modified Burgers model considering the stress history only has four parameters, all of which have practical physical significance, which makes the model easy to use. Different loading times and cyclic loading and unloading tests prove that the model has good stability and can, not only simulate the deformation characteristics of sediment, but can also provide good variation rules for the parameters.
Agreement Asymmetries with Adjectives in Heritage Greek
Authors: Alexiadou Artemis , Rizou Vasiliki , Karkaletsou Foteini
Published: May 2023

Research on different populations of heritage speakers (HSs) has demonstrated that these speakers (i) frequently produce fewer adjectives, and (ii) produce more errors in nominal concord than in subject–verb agreement. The first point, (i), has been attributed in the literature to the optionality of adjectives and to the fact that adjectives characterize the literary language and HSs lack familiarity with this register. The second point, (ii), is viewed by other researchers as supporting theories that treat nominal concord as being different from subject–verb agreement. In this paper, we contribute data on production of adjectives and agreement asymmetries with adjectives from heritage Greek. We show that these cannot be viewed as supporting claims with respect to (i) but conclude that nominal concord and subject–verb agreement involve different mechanisms. We furthermore explore ways to account for a slight contrast we observe between prenominal and postnominal agreement.
The Application of a Fluoride-and-Vitamin D Solution to Deciduous Teeth Promotes Formation of Persistent Mineral Crystals: A Morphological Ex-Vivo Study
Authors: Di Giorgio Gianni , Relucenti Michela , Iaculli Flavia , Salucci Alessandro , Donfrancesco Orlando , Polimeni Antonella , Bossù Maurizio
Published: May 2023

Background: The use of effective, low-cost, and easy-to-use products for early caries management will avoid loss of dental vitality and impairment in oral function. The ability of fluoride to re-mineralize dental surfaces has been widely reported as well as vitamin D demonstrated to have significant potential in improving the remineralization of early lesions on enamel surfaces. The aim of the present ex vivo study was to evaluate the effect of a fluoride and vitamin D solution in terms of formation of mineral crystals on the enamel of primary teeth, and their permanence over time on dental surfaces. Methods: Sixteen extracted deciduous teeth were cut to obtain 64 specimens that were divided into two groups. The first consisted of immersion of specimens for 4 days in a fluoride solution (T1); in the second group, the specimens were immersed for 4 days (T1) in fluoride and Vitamin D solution, and for a further 2 (T2) and 4 days (T3) in saline solution. Then, samples were morphologically analyzed by using Variable Pressure Scanning Electron Microscope (VPSEM) and underwent 3D surface reconstruction. Results: After a 4-day immersion in both solutions, octahedral-shaped crystals were formed on the enamel surface of primary teeth, demonstrating any statistically significant differences in terms of number, size, and shape. Moreover, the binding of the same crystals seemed to be strong enough to be maintained until 4 days in saline solution. However, a partial dissolution was observed in a time-dependent manner. Conclusions: A topical application of fluoride and Vitamin D promoted the formation of persistent mineral crystals on enamel surfaces of deciduous teeth and should be further studied to be potentially used as an alternative strategy in preventive dentistry.
Accelerated Direct Carbonation of Steel Slag and Cement Kiln Dust: An Industrial Symbiosis Strategy Applied in the Bergamo–Brescia Area
Authors: Biava Giada , Zacco Annalisa , Zanoletti Alessandra , Sorrentino Giampiero Pasquale , Capone Claudia , Princigallo Antonio , Depero Laura Eleonora , Bontempi Elza
Published: May 2023

The carbonation of alkaline industrial wastes is a pressing issue that is aimed at reducing CO2 emissions while promoting a circular economy. In this study, we explored the direct aqueous carbonation of steel slag and cement kiln dust in a newly developed pressurized reactor that operated at 15 bar. The goal was to identify the optimal reaction conditions and the most promising by-products that can be reused in their carbonated form, particularly in the construction industry. We proposed a novel, synergistic strategy for managing industrial waste and reducing the use of virgin raw materials among industries located in Lombardy, Italy, specifically Bergamo–Brescia. Our initial findings are highly promising, with argon oxygen decarburization (AOD) slag and black slag (sample 3) producing the best results (70 g CO2/kg slag and 76 g CO2/kg slag, respectively) compared with the other samples. Cement kiln dust (CKD) yielded 48 g CO2/kg CKD. We showed that the high concentration of CaO in the waste facilitated carbonation, while the presence of Fe compounds in large amounts caused the material to be less soluble in water, affecting the homogeneity of the slurry.
Biogenic Fabrication of Silver Nanoparticles Using Calotropis procera Flower Extract with Enhanced Biomimetics Attributes
Authors: Nagime Pooja V. , Singh Sudarshan , Shaikh Nishat M. , Gomare Komal S. , Chitme Havagiray , Abdel-Wahab Basel A. , Alqahtany Yahya S. , Khateeb Masood Medleri , Habeeb Mohammed Shafiuddin , Bakir Marwa B.
Published: May 2023

There have been some reports demonstrating the biogenic synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using Calotropis procera (CP) plant extract; however, detailed in-depth debriefing of the vital synthesis parameter for rapid, facile, efficacious synthesis at varied temperatures with effectual characterization of nanoparticles and biomimetic attribute is lacking. This study presents a comprehensive demarcation of the sustainable fabrication of biogenic C. procera flower extract capped and stabilized silver nanoparticles (CP-AgNPs) synthesis with thorough phytochemical characterization and potential biological application. The results revealed that the successful synthesis of CP-AgNPs was instantaneous with the maximum intensity of the plasmonic peak ~400 nm, while morphological results revealed the cubic shape of nanoparticles. CP-AgNPs were found to present stable, well-dispersed, uniform, high anionic zeta potential, and crystalline nanoparticles with a crystallite size of ~23.8 nm. The FTIR spectra indicated that CP-AgNPs were properly capped by the bioactive of C. procera. Moreover, the synthesized CP-AgNPs exhibited hydrogen peroxide scavenging efficacy. In addition, CP-AgNPs showed antibacterial and antifungal activity against pathogenic bacteria. CP-AgNPs displayed significant in vitro antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory activity. An efficient and convenient approach for synthesizing AgNPs using C. procera flower has been developed with enhanced biomimetic attributes that may be further utilized for water treatment, biosensors, biomedicine, and in allied science.
Synthesis and Electrical Percolation of Highly Amorphous Polyvinyl Alcohol/Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanocomposite
Authors: Adami Renata , Lamberti Patrizia , Casa Marcello , D’Avanzo Nicole , Ponticorvo Eleonora , Cirillo Claudia , Sarno Maria , Bychanok Dzmitry , Kuzhir Polina , Yu Changjiang , Xia Hesheng , Ciambelli Paolo
Published: May 2023

Polyvinyl alcohol is the most commercially water-soluble biodegradable polymer, and it is in use for a wide range of applications. It shows good compatibility with most inorganic/organic fillers, and enhanced composites may be prepared without the need to introduce coupling agents and interfacial modifiers. The patented high amorphous polyvinyl alcohol (HAVOH), commercialized with the trade name G-Polymer, can be easily dispersed in water and melt processed. HAVOH is particularly suitable for extrusion and can be used as a matrix to disperse nanocomposites with different properties. In this work, the optimization of the synthesis and characterization of HAVOH/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanocomposite obtained by the solution blending process of HAVOH and Graphene Oxide (GO) water solutions and ‘in situ’ reduction of GO is studied. The produced nanocomposite presents a low percolation threshold (~1.7 wt%) and high electrical conductivity (up to 11 S/m) due to the uniform dispersion in the polymer matrix as a result of the solution blending process and the good reduction level of GO. In consideration of HAVOH processability, the conductivity obtained by using rGO as filler, and the low percolation threshold, the nanocomposite presented here is a good candidate for the 3D printing of a conductive structure.
Laurequinone, a Lead Compound against Leishmania
Authors: García-Davis Sara , López-Arencibia Atteneri , Bethencourt-Estrella Carlos J. , San Nicolás-Hernández Desirée , Viveros-Valdez Ezequiel , Díaz-Marrero Ana R. , Fernández José J. , Lorenzo-Morales Jacob , Piñero José E.
Published: May 2023

Among neglected tropical diseases, leishmaniasis is one of the leading causes, not only of deaths but also of disability-adjusted life years. This disease, caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Leishmania, triggers different clinical manifestations, with cutaneous, mucocutaneous, and visceral forms. As existing treatments for this parasitosis are not sufficiently effective or safe for the patient, in this work, different sesquiterpenes isolated from the red alga Laurencia johnstonii have been studied for this purpose. The different compounds were tested in vitro against the promastigote and amastigote forms of Leishmania amazonensis. Different assays were also performed, including the measurement of mitochondrial potential, determination of ROS accumulation, and chromatin condensation, among others, focused on the detection of the cell death process known in this type of organism as apoptosis-like. Five compounds were identified that displayed leishmanicidal activity: laurequinone, laurinterol, debromolaurinterol, isolaurinterol, and aplysin, showing IC50 values against promastigotes of 1.87, 34.45, 12.48, 10.09, and 54.13 µM, respectively. Laurequinone was the most potent compound tested and was shown to be more effective than the reference drug miltefosine against promastigotes. Different death mechanism studies carried out showed that laurequinone appears to induce programmed cell death or apoptosis in the parasite studied. The obtained results underline the potential of this sesquiterpene as a novel anti-kinetoplastid therapeutic agent.
New Insights into the Fluid Management in Patients with Septic Shock
Authors: Moschopoulos Charalampos D. , Dimopoulou Dimitra , Dimopoulou Anastasia , Dimopoulou Konstantina , Protopapas Konstantinos , Zavras Nikolaos , Tsiodras Sotirios , Kotanidou Anastasia , Fragkou Paraskevi C.
Published: May 2023

The importance of fluid resuscitation therapy during the early stages of sepsis management is a well-established principle. Current Surviving Sepsis Campaign (SSC) guidelines recommend the early administration of intravenous crystalloid fluids for sepsis-related hypotension or hyperlactatemia due to tissue hypoperfusion, within the first 3 h of resuscitation and suggest using balanced solutions (BSs) instead of normal saline (NS) for the management of patients with sepsis or septic shock. Studies comparing BS versus NS administration in septic patients have demonstrated that BSs are associated with better outcomes including decreased mortality. After initial resuscitation, fluid administration has to be judicious in order to avoid fluid overload, which has been associated with increased mortality, prolonged mechanical ventilation, and worsening of acute kidney injury. The “one size fits all” approach may be “convenient” but it should be avoided. Personalized fluid management, based on patient-specific hemodynamic indices, provides the foundations for better patient outcomes in the future. Although there is a consensus on the need for adequate fluid therapy in sepsis, the type, the amount of administered fluids, and the ideal fluid resuscitation strategy remain elusive. Well-designed large randomized controlled trials are certainly needed to compare fluid choices specifically in the septic patient, as there is currently limited evidence of low quality. This review aims to summarize the physiologic principles and current scientific evidence regarding fluid management in patients with sepsis, as well as to provide a comprehensive overview of the latest data on the optimal fluid administration strategy in sepsis.
New Trends in Supercritical Fluid Technology and Pressurized Liquids for the Extraction and Recovery of Bioactive Compounds from Agro-Industrial and Marine Food Waste
Authors: Fraguela-Meissimilly Horacio , Bastías-Monte José Miguel , Vergara Claudia , Ortiz-Viedma Jaime , Lemus-Mondaca Roberto , Flores Marcos , Toledo-Merma Pamela , Alcázar-Alay Sylvia , Gallón-Bedoya Manuela
Published: May 2023

Growing consumer interest in healthy foods has led to an increased demand for bioactive compounds derived from eco-technologies. This review highlighted two emerging technologies, pressurized liquid extraction (PLE) and supercritical fluid extraction (SFE), which are based on clean processes aimed at recovering bioactive compounds from different food sources. We studied how the different processing conditions provide many advantages and a great opportunity to obtain compounds with antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, or antifungal activity from plant matrices and industrial biowaste, especially antioxidant compounds (anthocyanins and polyphenols) due to their important role in health promotion. Our research was conducted through a systematic search in different scientific databases related to the PLE and SFE topics. The review analyzed the optimal extraction conditions using these technologies, which lead to the efficient extraction of bioactive compounds, the use of different equipment, and recent combinations of SFE and PLE with other emerging technologies. This has given rise to the development of new technological innovations, new commercial applications, and the detailed recovery of various bioactive compounds extracted from different plant and marine life food matrices. These two environmentally friendly methodologies are fully valid and have great future application prospects in biowaste valorization. They represent a feasible technological tool that can promote the implementation of a circular economy model for the food industry. The underlying mechanisms of these techniques were discussed in detail and supported by current literature.
Aging Disrupts Circadian Rhythms in Mouse Liver Mitochondria
Authors: Xu Wei , Li Xiaodong
Published: May 2023

The circadian clock regulates daily changes in behavioral, endocrine, and metabolic activities in mammals. Circadian rhythms in cellular physiology are significantly affected by aging. In particular, we previously found that aging has a profound impact on daily rhythms in mitochondrial functions in mouse liver, leading to increased oxidative stress. This is not due to molecular clock malfunctions in peripheral tissues in old mice, however, as robust clock oscillations are observed therein. Nonetheless, aging induces changes in gene expression levels and rhythms in peripheral and probably central tissues. In this article, we review recent findings on the roles of the circadian clock and the aging process in regulating mitochondrial rhythms and redox homeostasis. Chronic sterile inflammation is implicated in mitochondrial dysfunction and increased oxidative stress during aging. In particular, upregulation of the NADase CD38 by inflammation during aging contributes to mitochondrial dysregulation.
Enhanced Photoluminescence and Random Lasing Emission in TiO2-Decorated FAPbBr3 Thin Films
Authors: Liu Xiaohong , Xu Caixia , Zhao Hongquan
Published: May 2023

Herein, titanium-dioxide-decorated organic formamidinium lead bromide perovskite thin films grown by the one-step spin-coating method are studied. TiO2 nanoparticles are widespread in FAPbBr3 thin films, which changes the optical properties of the perovskite thin films effectively. Obvious reductions in the absorption and enhancements in the intensity of the photoluminescence spectra are observed. Over 6 nm, a blueshift of the photoluminescence emission peaks is observed due to 5.0 mg/mL TiO2 nanoparticle decoration in the thin films, which originates from the variation in the grain sizes of the perovskite thin films. Light intensity redistributions in perovskite thin films are measured by using a home-built confocal microscope, and the multiple scattering and weak localization of light are analyzed based on the scattering center of TiO2 nanoparticle clusters. Furthermore, random lasing emission with sharp emission peaks is achieved in the scattering perovskite thin films with a full width at the half maximum of 2.1 nm. The multiple scattering of light, the random reflection and reabsorption of light, and the coherent interaction of light within the TiO2 nanoparticle clusters play important roles in random lasing. This work could be used to improve the efficiency of photoluminescence and random lasing emissions, and it is promising in high-performance optoelectrical devices.
A Systematic Ex-Vivo Study of the Anti-Proliferative/Cytotoxic Bioactivity of Major Olive Secoiridoids’ Double Combinations and of Total Olive Oil Phenolic Extracts on Multiple Cell-Culture Based Cancer Models Highlights Synergistic Effects
Authors: Papakonstantinou Aikaterini , Koumarianou Petrina , Diamantakos Panagiotis , Melliou Eleni , Magiatis Prokopios , Boleti Haralabia
Published: May 2023

Several individual olive oil phenols (OOPs) and their secoiridoid derivatives have been shown to exert anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic activity in treatments of human cancer cell lines originating from several tissues. This study evaluated the synergistic anti-proliferative/cytotoxic effects of five olive secoiridoid derivatives (oleocanthal, oleacein, oleuropein aglycone, ligstroside aglycone and oleomissional) in all possible double combinations and of total phenolic extracts (TPEs) on eleven human cancer cell lines representing eight cell-culture-based cancer models. Individual OOPs were used to treat cells for 72 h in half of their EC50 values for each cell line and their synergistic, additive or antagonistic interactions were evaluated by calculating the coefficient for drug interactions (CDI) for each double combination of OOPs. Olive oil TPEs of determined OOPs’ content, originating from three different harvests of autochthonous olive cultivars in Greece, were evaluated as an attempt to investigate the efficacy of OOPs to reduce cancer cell numbers as part of olive oil consumption. Most combinations of OOPs showed strong synergistic effect (CDIs < 0.9) in their efficacy, whereas TPEs strongly impaired cancer cell viability, better than most individual OOPs tested herein, including the most resistant cancer cell lines evaluated.
Somatic Outcomes and Nutritional Management of Anorexia Nervosa
Authors: Stheneur Chantal , Hanachi Mouna
Published: May 2023

This Special Issue of Nutrients, entitled “Nutritional Management and Outcomes in Anorexia Nervosa”, aims to advance aspects of the scientific understanding of some serious or frequent somatic involvements and of the precocious nutrition management of severe forms of the disease in order to assist clinicians in the management of such patients [...]