bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Health Effects of Red Wine Consumption: A Narrative Review of an Issue That Still Deserves Debate
Authors: Lombardo Mauro , Feraco Alessandra , Camajani Elisabetta , Caprio Massimiliano , Armani Andrea
Published: April 2023

A strong controversy persists regarding the effect of red wine (RW) consumption and health. Guidelines for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and cancers discourage alcohol consumption in any form, but several studies have demonstrated that low RW intake may have positive effects on CVD risk. This review evaluated randomised controlled trials (RCTs), examining the recent literature on the correlations between acute and chronic RW consumption and health. All RCTs published in English on PubMed from 1 January 2000 to 28 February 2023 were evaluated. Ninety-one RCTs were included in this review, seven of which had a duration of more than six months. We assessed the effect of RW on: (1) antioxidant status, (2) cardiovascular function, (3) coagulation pathway and platelet function, (4) endothelial function and arterial stiffness, (5) hypertension, (6) immune function and inflammation status, (7) lipid profile and homocysteine levels, (8) body composition, type 2 diabetes and glucose metabolism, and (9) gut microbiota and the gastrointestinal tract. RW consumption mostly results in improvements in antioxidant status, thrombosis and inflammation markers, lipid profile, and gut microbiota, with conflicting results on hypertension and cardiac function. Notably, beneficial effects were observed on oxidative stress, inflammation, and nephropathy markers, with a modest decrease in CVD risk in five out of seven studies that evaluated the effect of RW consumption. These studies were conducted mainly in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, and had a duration between six months and two years. Additional long-term RCTs are needed to confirm these benefits, and assess the potential risks associated with RW consumption.
Natural Pigments Production and Their Application in Food, Health and Other Industries
Authors: Di Salvo Eleonora , Lo Vecchio Giovanna , De Pasquale Rita , De Maria Laura , Tardugno Roberta , Vadalà Rossella , Cicero Nicola
Published: April 2023

In addition to fulfilling their function of giving color, many natural pigments are known as interesting bioactive compounds with potential health benefits. These compounds have various applications. In recent times, in the food industry, there has been a spread of natural pigment application in many fields, such as pharmacology and toxicology, in the textile and printing industry and in the dairy and fish industry, with almost all major natural pigment classes being used in at least one sector of the food industry. In this scenario, the cost-effective benefits for the industry will be welcome, but they will be obscured by the benefits for people. Obtaining easily usable, non-toxic, eco-sustainable, cheap and biodegradable pigments represents the future in which researchers should invest.
Moderate Dose Bovine Colostrum Supplementation in Prevention of Upper Respiratory Tract Infections in Medical University Students: A Randomized, Triple Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Baśkiewicz-Hałasa Magdalena , Stachowska Ewa , Grochans Elżbieta , Maciejewska-Markiewicz Dominika , Bühner Leonard , Skonieczna-Żydecka Karolina , Hałasa Maciej
Published: April 2023

Colostrum supplementation has been confirmed to protect from upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) in athletes. Our trial was designed to find out whether other young adults who have potentially been exposed to increased risk of developing URTIs can also benefit. Homogenous population of medical (MED) students (at risk) and health science (HSci) peers were supplemented with a relatively low dose (0.5–1.0 g/day) of bovine colostrum (COL) or placebo (PBO) over 45 days and then once again over 7 days starting at day 87. The trial lasted 107 days. Subjects were monitored solely by them filling out online daily questionnaires containing questions about frequency and severity of URTIs symptoms, well-being, and potential gastrointestinal side-effects. A significant level of protection from URTIs was observed as expressed by dropping frequency of symptomatic days in COL vs. PBO group among MED vs. HSci students. The same effect was also recorded for severity of symptoms, as well as general well-being perception. Overall, it can be concluded that although young healthy people seem to have sufficient defenses from URTIs, COL supplementation can provide significant support in such protection among those at higher infectious risk because of exposure to a heavy workload and increased contact with infectious agents.
Association of the Practice of Physical Activity and Dietary Pattern with Psychological Distress before and during COVID-19 in Brazilian Adults
Authors: de Camargo Edina Maria , López-Gil José Francisco , Piola Thiago Silva , Pechnicki dos Santos Letícia , de Borba Edilson Fernando , de Campos Wagner , Gregorio da Silva Sergio
Published: April 2023

To verify the association between the practice of physical activity and dietary patterns and psychological distress before and during the lockdown due to COVID-19, a cross-sectional study was performed with 2000 Brazilians (mean [M] = 35.78 years; standard deviation [SD] = 11.20; 59.6% women) recruited through convenience sampling via digital media. Participants completed an electronic questionnaire containing sociodemographic and clinical information, nutritional patterns, physical activity, and psychological distress. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multinomial regression. Before the COVID-19 lockdown, the chance of women presenting very high stress, in relation to men, was six times higher (OR = 6.32; 95% CI 4.20–9.51), a behavior that remained similar during the lockdown (OR = 6.63; 95% CI 4.40–10.00). Before the lockdown, insufficient physical activity doubled the chance of having very high stress in relation to those who engaged in physical activities six to seven times a week (OR = 2.11; 95% CI 1.10–4.02). However, during the lockdown, this probability was higher, from twice to 10 times the chance (OR = 10.19; 95% CI 4.85–21.41). Not exercising alone (OR = 2.18; 95% CI 1.52–3.11) and a decreasing physical activity frequency (OR = 2.28; 95% CI 1.40–3.71) were also associated with very high stress during the lockdown. Additionally, the consumption of smaller amounts of food showed an inverse association with very high stress (OR = 0.28; 95% CI 0.18–0.43). The maintenance of physical activity and an adequate eating frequency are measures that should be considered to cope with higher levels of anxiety and depression.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Nutrition, Sleep, Physical Activity, and Mood Disorders of Polish Children
Authors: Krupa-Kotara Karolina , Wojtas Gabriela , Grajek Mateusz , Grot Martina , Rozmiarek Mateusz , Wypych-Ślusarska Agata , Oleksiuk Klaudia , Głogowska-Ligus Joanna , Słowiński Jerzy
Published: April 2023

The harmful consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic on children are its impact on eating habits, physical activity, sleep, and mood disorders. In the future, this may result in a higher prevalence of obesity and diet-related diseases. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on children’s eating behavior and lifestyle. The study was conducted using a proprietary questionnaire on dietary and lifestyle habits before and during the pandemic, and the reasons for changes due to the pandemic. The study involved 294 parents of children in grades 1–8 in elementary schools in two regions of Poland. The survey showed that during the pandemic, the percentage of children eating five regular meals daily, including fruits and vegetables, and engaging in daily physical activity decreased. However, the percentage of children spending more than 4 h a day in front of a screen increased (p < 0.05). The main reasons for changes in eating habits and physical activity were less eating out, lack of motivation, obstruction, and lack of access to sports facilities (p < 0.05). The pandemic had a significant impact on reduced levels of physical activity and increased time spent in front of a screen. In summary, among the reasons for changes in children’s dietary and lifestyle habits, factors related to the pandemic itself, i.e., social restrictions, restrictions, closure of schools and other facilities, and fear of coronavirus infection, had the greatest impact.
Effect of Thymbra capitata (L.) Cav. on Inflammation, Senescence and Cell Migration
Authors: Alves-Silva Jorge M. , Pedreiro Sónia , Cavaleiro Carlos , Cruz Maria Teresa , Figueirinha Artur , Salgueiro Lígia
Published: April 2023

Aromatic plants are reported to display pharmacological properties, including anti-aging. This work aims to disclose the anti-aging effect of the essential oil (EO) of Thymbra capitata (L.) Cav., an aromatic and medicinal plant widely used as a spice, as well as of the hydrodistillation residual water (HRW), a discarded by-product of EO hydrodistillation. The phytochemical characterization of EO and HRW was assessed by GC-MS and HPLC-PDA-ESI-MSn, respectively. The DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays were used to disclose the antioxidant properties. The anti-inflammatory potential was evaluated using lipopolysaccharide-stimulated macrophages by assessing NO production, iNOS, and pro-IL-1β protein levels. Cell migration was evaluated using the scratch wound assay, and the etoposide-induced senescence was used to assess the modulation of senescence. The EO is mainly characterized by carvacrol, while the HRW is predominantly characterized by rosmarinic acid. The HRW exerts a stronger antioxidant effect in the DPPH and FRAP assays, whereas the EO was the most active sample in the ABTS assay. Both extracts reduce NO, iNOS, and pro-IL-1β. The EO has no effect on cell migration and presents anti-senescence effects. In opposition, HRW reduces cell migration and induces cellular senescence. Overall, our study highlights interesting pharmacological properties for both extracts, EO being of interest as an anti-aging ingredient and HRW relevant in cancer therapy.
Meldonium Inhibits Cell Motility and Wound-Healing in Trabecular Meshwork Cells and Scleral Fibroblasts: Possible Applications in Glaucoma
Authors: Minnelli Cristina , Piva Francesco , Cecati Monia , Armeni Tatiana , Mobbili Giovanna , Galeazzi Roberta , Melecchi Alberto , Cristaldi Martina , Corsaro Roberta , Rusciano Dario
Published: April 2023

Meldonium (MID) is a synthetic drug designed to decrease the availability of L-carnitine—a main player in mitochondrial energy generation—thus modulating the cell pathways of energy metabolism. Its clinical effects are mostly evident in blood vessels during ischemic events, when the hyperproduction of endogenous carnitine enhances cell metabolic activities, leading to increased oxidative stress and apoptosis. MID has shown vaso-protective effects in model systems of endothelial dysfunction induced by high glucose or by hypertension. By stimulating the endothelial nitric oxide synthetase (eNOS) via PI3 and Akt kinase, it has shown beneficial effects on the microcirculation and blood perfusion. Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) and endothelial dysfunction are major risk factors for glaucoma development and progression, and IOP remains the main target for its pharmacological treatment. IOP is maintained through the filtration efficiency of the trabecular meshwork (TM), a porous tissue derived from the neuroectoderm. Therefore, given the effects of MID on blood vessels and endothelial cells, we investigated the effects of the topical instillation of MID eye drops on the IOP of normotensive rats and on the cell metabolism and motility of human TM cells in vitro. Results show a significant dose-dependent decrease in the IOP upon topic treatment and a decrease in TM cell motility in the wound-healing assay, correlating with an enhanced expression of vinculin localized in focal adhesion plaques. Motility inhibition was also evident on scleral fibroblasts in vitro. These results may encourage a further exploration of MID eye drops in glaucoma treatment.
A Comparative Study on the Neuroprotective Effect of Geopung-Chunghyuldan on In Vitro Oxygen–Glucose Deprivation and In Vivo Permanent Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion Models
Authors: Park Tae-Hoon , Lee Han-Gyul , Cho Seung-Yeon , Park Seong-Uk , Jung Woo-Sang , Park Jung-Mi , Ko Chang-Nam , Cho Ki-Ho , Kwon Seungwon , Moon Sang-Kwan
Published: April 2023

Geopung-Chunghyuldan (GCD), which is a mixture of Chunghyuldan (CD), Radix Salviae Miltiorrhizae, Radix Notoginseng, and Borneolum Syntheticum, is used to treat ischemic stroke in traditional Korean medicine. This study aimed to investigate the effects of GCD and CD on ischemic brain damage using in vitro and in vivo stroke models, as well as to elucidate the synergistic effects of GCD against ischemic insult. To study the effect of GCD in an in vitro ischemia model, SH-SY5Y cells were exposed to oxygen–glucose deprivation (OGD). Cell death after 16 h of OGD exposure was measured using the MTT assay and live/dead cell counting methods. An in vivo ischemia mice model was established through permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (pMCAO). To determine the neuroprotective effect of GCD, it was orally administered immediately and 2 h after pMCAO. The infarct volume was measured through 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining at 24 h after pMCAO. Compared with the control group, GCD treatment significantly reduced OGD-induced cell death in SH-SY5Y cells; however, CD treatment did not show a significant protective effect. In the pMCAO model, compared with the control group, treatment with GCD and CD significantly and mildly reduced the infarct volume, respectively. Our findings indicate that compared with CD, GCD may allow a more enhanced neuroprotective effect in acute ischemic stroke, indicating a potential synergistic neuroprotective effect. The possibility of GCD as a novel alternative choice for the prevention and treatment of ischemic stroke is suggested.
Advances in Drug Discovery Targeting Lysosomal Membrane Proteins
Authors: Wang Hongna , Zhu Yidong , Liu Huiyan , Liang Tianxiang , Wei Yongjie
Published: April 2023

Lysosomes are essential organelles of eukaryotic cells and are responsible for various cellular functions, including endocytic degradation, extracellular secretion, and signal transduction. There are dozens of proteins localized to the lysosomal membrane that control the transport of ions and substances across the membrane and are integral to lysosomal function. Mutations or aberrant expression of these proteins trigger a variety of disorders, making them attractive targets for drug development for lysosomal disorder-related diseases. However, breakthroughs in R&D still await a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms and processes of how abnormalities in these membrane proteins induce related diseases. In this article, we summarize the current progress, challenges, and prospects for developing therapeutics targeting lysosomal membrane proteins for the treatment of lysosomal-associated diseases.
Receptors Involved in Mental Disorders and the Use of Clozapine, Chlorpromazine, Olanzapine, and Aripiprazole to Treat Mental Disorders
Authors: Mlambo Ronald , Liu Jia , Wang Qian , Tan Songwen , Chen Chuanpin
Published: April 2023

Mental illnesses are a global health challenge, and effective medicines are needed to treat these conditions. Psychotropic drugs are commonly prescribed to manage mental disorders, such as schizophrenia, but unfortunately, they can cause significant and undesirable side effects, such as myocarditis, erectile dysfunction, and obesity. Furthermore, some schizophrenic patients may not respond to psychotropic drugs, a condition called schizophrenia-treatment resistance. Fortunately, clozapine is a promising option for patients who exhibit treatment resistance. Unlike chlorpromazine, scientists have found that clozapine has fewer neurological side effects. Additionally, olanzapine and aripiprazole are well-known for their moderating effects on psychosis and are widely used in clinical practice. To further maximize drug efficacy, it is critical to deeply understand the receptors or signaling pathways central to the nervous system, such as serotonin, histamine, trace amines, dopamine, and G-protein coupled receptors. This article provides an overview of the receptors mentioned above, as well as the antipsychotics that interact with them, such as olanzapine, aripiprazole, clozapine, and chlorpromazine. Additionally, this article discusses the general pharmacology of these medications.
Bentonite- and Palygorskite-Based Gels for Topical Drug Delivery Applications
Authors: Ruggeri Marco , Sánchez-Espejo Rita , Casula Luca , Sandri Giuseppina , Perioli Luana , Cardia Maria Cristina , Lai Francesco , Viseras César
Published: April 2023

Bentonite or palygorskite-based hydrogels have recently been suggested as a strategy to increase bioavailability and control the retention and release of therapeutic candidates. In this work, clay-based hydrogels loaded with diclofenac acid nanocrystals have been successfully designed and developed. The aim was to improve diclofenac solubility, its dissolution rate and to enhance its local bioavailability after topical application. For this purpose, diclofenac acid nanocrystals were prepared by wet media milling technology and then loaded into inorganic hydrogels based on bentonite and/or palygorskite. Diclofenac acid nanocrystals were characterized by morphology, size, and zeta potential. Moreover, rheological behavior, morphology, solid state, release studies, and in vitro skin penetration/permeation of diclofenac acid nanocrystals-loaded hydrogels were performed. The hydrogels were characterized by a crystalline structure, and demonstrated that the inclusion of diclofenac in clay-based hydrogels resulted in an increased thermal stability. The presence of both palygorskite and bentonite reduced nanocrystal mobility, and consequently its release and penetration into the skin. On the other hand, bentonite- or palygorskite-based hydrogels revealed great potential as an alternative strategy to enhance topical bioavailability of DCF nanocrystals, enhancing their penetration to the deeper skin layers.
A Dual Therapy of Nanostructured Lipid Carrier Loaded with Teriflunomide—A Dihydro-Orotate Dehydrogenase Inhibitor and an miR-155-Antagomir in Cuprizone-Induced C57BL/6J Mouse
Authors: Koduru Trideva Sastri , Gupta Vishal N. , Veeranna Balamuralidhara , Seetharaman Shanmuganathan
Published: April 2023

The effective treatment of central nervous system (CNS) disorders such as multiple sclerosis (MS) has been challenging due to the limited ability of therapeutic agents to cross the blood–brain barrier (BBB). In this study, we investigated the potential of nanocarrier systems to deliver miR-155-antagomir-teriflunomide (TEF) dual therapy to the brain via intranasal (IN) administration to manage MS-associated neurodegeneration and demyelination. Our results showed that the combinatorial therapy of miR-155-antagomir and TEF loaded in nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) significantly increased brain concentration and improved targeting potential. The novelty of this study lies in the use of a combinatorial therapy approach of miR-155-antagomir and TEF loaded in NLCs. This is a significant finding, as the effective delivery of therapeutic molecules to the CNS has been a challenge in treating neurodegenerative disorders. Additionally, this study sheds light on the potential use of RNA-targeting therapies in personalized medicine, which could revolutionize the way CNS disorders are managed. Furthermore, our findings suggest that nanocarrier-loaded therapeutic agents have great potential for safe and economical delivery in treating CNS disorders. Our study provides novel insights into the effective delivery of therapeutic molecules via the IN route for managing neurodegenerative disorders. In particular, our results demonstrate the potential of delivering miRNA and TEF via the intranasal route using the NLC system. We also demonstrate that the long-term use of RNA-targeting therapies could be a promising tool in personalized medicine. Importantly, using a cuprizone-induced animal model, our study also investigated the effects of TEF-miR155-antagomir-loaded NLCs on demyelination and axonal damage. Following six weeks of treatment, the TEF-miR155-antagomir-loaded NLCs potentially lowered the demyelination and enhanced the bioavailability of the loaded therapeutic molecules. Our study is a paradigm shift in delivering miRNAs and TEF via the intranasal route and highlights the potential of this approach for managing neurodegenerative disorders. In conclusion, our study provides critical insights into the effective delivery of therapeutic molecules via the IN route for managing CNS disorders, and especially MS. Our findings have significant implications for the future development of nanocarrier-based therapies and personalized medicine. Our results provide a strong foundation for further studies and the potential to develop safe and economic therapeutics for CNS disorders.
Practical Wisdom, Extended Rationality, and Human Agency
Authors: Hacker-Wright John
Published: April 2023

This paper defends a neo-Aristotelian conception of practical wisdom as a virtue that enables human agents to reflect on and direct their lives toward virtuous ends over time. This view is sometimes assumed to require a commitment to an intellectualist Grand End or blueprint view. On that view, practical wisdom would require philosophical insight and an implausibly well worked out set of weighted preferences. In this paper, I aim to show that particularists can and should take on much of what was thought to belong to the Grand End view. I argue for a conception of practical wisdom as a virtue of extended action that accounts for overarching ends without the need to appeal to an unrealistic, intellectualized blueprint for life. Further, on the view advocated here, as in Aristotle, practical wisdom is a virtue of substantial rationality and a different capacity from instrumental rationality in that it requires reflection on what constitutes a good human life. This is not high-minded philosophical reflection and is, in fact, something rather mundane that draws on the same rational capacities we deploy to assess the goodness of actions.
Nonzero-Order Resonances in Single-Beam Spin-Exchange Relaxation-Free Magnetometers
Authors: Wang Kun , Zhang Kaixuan , Xu Nuozhou , Yan Yifan , Li Xiaoyu , Zhou Binquan
Published: April 2023

Zero-field optically pumped magnetometers operating in the spin-exchange relaxation-free (SERF) regime have been extensively studied, and usually depend on zeroth-order parametric resonance to measure the magnetic field. However, the studies conducted on this topic lack thorough analyses and in-depth discussion of nonzero-order magnetic resonances in single-beam SERF magnetometers. In this paper, we analyzed the nonzero-order resonance, especially the first-order resonance, based on a single-beam SERF magnetometer, and discussed its various applications. A comprehensive theoretical analysis and experiments were conducted with respect to multiple functions, including nonzero finite magnetic field measurements, spin polarization measurement, and in situ coil constant calibration. The results showed that first-order resonance can be utilized for nonzerofinite magnetic field measurements, and the spin polarization of alkali-metal atoms can be determined by measuring the slowing-down factor using the resonance condition. Furthermore, acquiring the first-order resonance point at an equivalent zero pump light power through fitting offers an approach for quick and precise in situ coil constant calibration. This study contributes to the applications of SERF magnetometers in nonzero finite magnetic fields.
Genetic Algorithm for Determination of the Event Collision Time and Particle Identification by Time-of-Flight at NICA SPD
Authors: Yurchenko Semyon , Zhabitsky Mikhail
Published: April 2023

Particle identification is an important feature of the future SPD (Spin Physics Detector) experiment at the NICA (Nuclotron-based Ion Collider fAcility) collider. In particular, the identification of particles with momenta up to a few GeV/c (with c the speed of light) by their time-of-flight facilitates the reconstruction of events of interest. The high time resolution of modern TOF (Time-Of-Flight) detectors demands the need to obtain the event collision time, t0, with comparable accuracy. While the determination of the collision time is feasible through the use of TOF signals supplemented by track reconstruction, it proves to be computationally expensive. In the presented study, a dedicated Genetic Algorithm is developed as a fast and accurate method to determine the proton–proton collision time by the measurements of the TOF detector at the SPD experiment. By using this reliable method for the t0 determination we compare different approaches for the particle identification procedure based on TOF signals.
Variations in Total Protein and Amino Acids in the Sequenced Sorghum Mutant Library
Authors: Khan Adil , Khan Nasir Ali , Bean Scott R. , Chen Junping , Xin Zhanguo , Jiao Yinping
Published: April 2023

Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) is the fifth most important cereal crop worldwide; however, its utilization in food products can be limited due to reduced nutritional quality related to amino acid composition and protein digestibility in cooked products. Low essential amino acid levels and digestibility are influenced by the composition of the sorghum seed storage proteins, kafirins. In this study, we report a core collection of 206 sorghum mutant lines with altered seed storage proteins. Wet lab chemistry analysis was conducted to evaluate the total protein content and 23 amino acids, including 19 protein-bound and 4 non-protein amino acids. We identified mutant lines with diverse compositions of essential and non-essential amino acids. The highest total protein content in these lines was almost double that of the wild-type (BTx623). The mutants identified in this study can be used as a genetic resource to improve the sorghum grain quality and determine the molecular mechanisms underlying the biosynthesis of storage protein and starch in sorghum seeds.
LED Lighting to Produce High-Quality Ornamental Plants
Authors: Trivellini Alice , Toscano Stefania , Romano Daniela , Ferrante Antonio
Published: April 2023

The flexibility of LED technology, in terms of energy efficiency, robustness, compactness, long lifetime, and low heat emission, as well as its applications as a sole source or supplemental lighting system, offers interesting potential, giving the ornamental industry an edge over traditional production practices. Light is a fundamental environmental factor that provides energy for plants through photosynthesis, but it also acts as a signal and coordinates multifaceted plant-growth and development processes. With manipulations of light quality affecting specific plant traits such as flowering, plant architecture, and pigmentation, the focus has been placed on the ability to precisely manage the light growing environment, proving to be an effective tool to produce tailored plants according to market request. Applying lighting technology grants growers several productive advantages, such as planned production (early flowering, continuous production, and predictable yield), improved plant habitus (rooting and height), regulated leaf and flower color, and overall improved quality attributes of commodities. Potential LED benefits to the floriculture industry are not limited to the aesthetic and economic value of the product obtained; LED technology also represents a solid, sustainable option for reducing agrochemical (plant-growth regulators and pesticides) and energy inputs (power energy).
Advanced Electrode Coatings Based on Poly-N-Phenylanthranilic Acid Composites with Reduced Graphene Oxide for Supercapacitors
Authors: Ozkan Sveta Zhiraslanovna , Tkachenko Lyudmila Ivanovna , Efimov Oleg Nikolaevich , Karpacheva Galina Petrovna , Nikolaeva Galina Vasilevna , Kostev Aleksandr Ivanovich , Dremova Nadejda Nikolaevna , Kabachkov Evgeny Nikolaevich
Published: April 2023

The electrochemical behavior of new electrode materials based on poly-N-phenylanthranilic acid (P-N-PAA) composites with reduced graphene oxide (RGO) was studied for the first time. Two methods of obtaining RGO/P-N-PAA composites were suggested. Hybrid materials were synthesized via in situ oxidative polymerization of N-phenylanthranilic acid (N-PAA) in the presence of graphene oxide (GO) (RGO/P-N-PAA-1), as well as from a P-N-PAA solution in DMF containing GO (RGO/P-N-PAA-2). GO post-reduction in the RGO/P-N-PAA composites was carried out under IR heating. Hybrid electrodes are electroactive layers of RGO/P-N-PAA composites stable suspensions in formic acid (FA) deposited on the glassy carbon (GC) and anodized graphite foil (AGF) surfaces. The roughened surface of the AGF flexible strips provides good adhesion of the electroactive coatings. Specific electrochemical capacitances of AGF-based electrodes depend on the method for the production of electroactive coatings and reach 268, 184, 111 F∙g−1 (RGO/P-N-PAA-1) and 407, 321, 255 F∙g−1 (RGO/P-N-PAA-2.1) at 0.5, 1.5, 3.0 mA·cm−2 in an aprotic electrolyte. Specific weight capacitance values of IR-heated composite coatings decrease as compared to capacitance values of primer coatings and amount to 216, 145, 78 F∙g−1 (RGO/P-N-PAA-1IR) and 377, 291, 200 F∙g−1 (RGO/P-N-PAA-2.1IR). With a decrease in the weight of the applied coating, the specific electrochemical capacitance of the electrodes increases to 752, 524, 329 F∙g−1 (AGF/RGO/P-N-PAA-2.1) and 691, 455, 255 F∙g−1 (AGF/RGO/P-N-PAA-1IR).
Hydrophobic, Sustainable, High-Barrier Regenerated Cellulose Film via a Simple One-Step Silylation Reaction
Authors: Kwon Goomin , Park Jisoo , Lee Kangyun , Ko Youngsang , Jeon Youngho , Lee Suji , Kim Jeonghun , You Jungmok
Published: April 2023

With the increasing importance of environmental protection, high-performance biopolymer films have received considerable attention as effective alternatives to petroleum-based polymer films. In this study, we developed hydrophobic regenerated cellulose (RC) films with good barrier properties through a simple gas–solid reaction via the chemical vapor deposition of alkyltrichlorosilane. RC films were employed to construct a biodegradable, free-standing substrate matrix, and methyltrichlorosilane (MTS) was used as a hydrophobic coating material to control the wettability and improve the barrier properties of the final films. MTS readily coupled with hydroxyl groups on the RC surface through a condensation reaction. We demonstrated that the MTS-modified RC (MTS/RC) films were optically transparent, mechanically strong, and hydrophobic. In particular, the obtained MTS/RC films exhibited a low oxygen transmission rate of 3 cm3/m2 per day and a low water vapor transmission rate of 41 g/m2 per day, which are superior to those of other hydrophobic biopolymer films.
Study of the Mechanical Properties and Microstructure of Alkali-Activated Fly Ash–Slag Composite Cementitious Materials
Authors: Lv Yigang , Wang Cui , Han Weiwei , Li Xing , Peng Hui
Published: April 2023

Composites that use fly ash and slag as alkali-activated materials instead of cement can overcome the defects and negative effects of alkali-activated cementitious materials prepared with the use of an alkali-activated material. In this study, fly ash and slag were used as raw materials to prepare alkali-activated composite cementitious materials. Experimental studies were carried out on the effects of the slag content, activator concentration and curing age on the compressive strength of the composite cementitious materials. The microstructure was characterized using hydration heat, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and its intrinsic influence mechanism was revealed. The results show that increasing the curing age improves the degree of polymerization reaction and the composite reaches 77~86% of its 7-day compressive strength after 3 days. Except for the composites with 10% and 30% slag content, which reach 33% and 64%, respectively, of their 28-day compressive strength at 7 days, the remaining composites reach more than 95%. This result indicates that the alkali-activated fly ash–slag composite cementitious material has a rapid hydration reaction in the early stage and a slow hydration reaction in the later stage. The amount of slag is the main influencing factor of the compressive strength of alkali-activated cementitious materials. The compressive strength shows a trend of continuous increase when increasing slag content from 10% to 90%, and the maximum compressive strength reaches 80.26 MPa. The increase in the slag content introduces more Ca2+ into the system, which increases the hydration reaction rate, promotes the formation of more hydration products, refines the pore size distribution of the structure, reduces the porosity, and forms a denser microstructure. Therefore, it improves the mechanical properties of the cementitious material. The compressive strength shows a trend of first increasing and then decreasing when the activator concentration increases from 0.20 to 0.40, and the maximum compressive strength is 61.68 MPa (obtained at 0.30). The increase in the activator concentration improves the alkaline environment of the solution, optimizes the level of the hydration reaction, promotes the formation of more hydration products, and makes the microstructure denser. However, an activator concentration that is too large or too small hinders the hydration reaction and affects the strength development of the cementitious material.
Studies of the Tarragon Essential Oil Effects on the Characteristics of Doped Hydroxyapatite/Chitosan Biocomposites
Authors: Predoi Daniela , Iconaru Simona Liliana , Ciobanu Carmen Steluta , Raita Mariana Stefania , Ghegoiu Liliana , Trusca Roxana , Badea Monica Luminita , Cimpeanu Carmen
Published: April 2023

Due to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant pathogens, the need to find new, efficient antimicrobial agents is rapidly increasing. Therefore, in this study, we report the development of new biocomposites based on zinc-doped hydroxyapatite/chitosan enriched with essential oil of Artemisia dracunculus L. with good antimicrobial activity. Techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were used in order to evaluate their physico-chemical properties. Our studies revealed that biocomposite materials with nanometric dimension and homogeneous composition could be obtained through an economic and cost-effective synthesis method. The biological assays demonstrated that ZnHA (zinc-doped hydroxyapatite), ZnHACh (zinc-doped hydroxyapatite/chitosan) and ZnHAChT (zinc-doped hydroxyapatite/chitosan enriched with essential oil of Artemisia dracunculus L.) did not exhibit a toxic effect on the cell viability and proliferation of the primary osteoblast culture (hFOB 1.19). Moreover, the cytotoxic assay also highlighted that the cell morphology of the hFOB 1.19 was not altered in the presence of ZnHA, ZnHACh or ZnHAChT. Furthermore, the in vitro antimicrobial studies emphasized that the samples exhibited strong antimicrobial properties against Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 and Candida albicans ATCC 10231 microbial strains. These results are encouraging for the following development of new composite materials with enhanced biological properties that could promote the osteogenic process of bone healing and also exhibit good antimicrobial properties.
Buckwheat Hulls/Perlite as an Environmentally Friendly Flame-Retardant System for Rigid Polyurethane Foams
Authors: Anna Strąkowska , Karolina Miedzińska , Sylwia Członka
Published: April 2023

This article presents an innovative approach to the flame retardancy of rigid polyurethane foams using natural waste in the form of buckwheat hulls in combination with an inorganic additive—perlite. A series of tests were presented in which various contents of flame-retardant additives were used. Based on the test results, it was found that the addition of the buckwheat hull/perlite system affected the physical and mechanical properties of the obtained foams, i.e., apparent density, impact strength, and compressive and flexural strength. The structure of the system had also changed, directly affecting the hydrophobic properties of the foams. In addition, it was observed that the addition of buckwheat hull/perlite modifiers improved the burning behavior of composite foams.
Good Practices Contributing to Cleaner Food Production? A Preliminary Survey Analysis Involving Wrocław-Poland Food Retail Sector
Authors: Okpala Charles Odilichukwu R.
Published: April 2023

Good practices are among the direct/indirect components that influence agrofood safety knowledge, and occupying quality assurance control facets within the (agrofood) product industry. Cleaner production involves an integrated preventive environmental strategy applied to processes, products, and services, which increases overall efficiency, and reduces risks to humans/environment. However, ‘cleaner food production’ appears neither yet clearly defined nor well established. In this preliminary survey analysis, how good practices would contribute towards achieving cleaner food production in the context of food retail sector was performed. Specifically, Wrocław-Poland served as a case reference targeting managers/supervisors given their expected service, experience, and expertise. The sampling technique used was the judgment/purposive type, and the research instrument took the form of a questionnaire. Managers’/supervisors’ responses revealed significant differences (p < 0.05) across variables, with ‘yes’ emerging greater in most cases. Knowledge, experience, and expertise of good practices enabled the managers/supervisors connect with (some) cleaner production components. A total of 53 statistically significant correlations were found, wherein some showed perfect linear relationships. Specific to the context of (food) retail sector, the term “cleaner food production” could be defined as “the effective and efficient utilization of good practices to deliver high-quality food retail products through environmental-friendly as well as sustainable processes”.
An Analysis of Renewable Energy Sources for Developing a Sustainable and Low-Carbon Hydrogen Economy in China
Authors: Liu Runkun , Solangi Yasir Ahmed
Published: April 2023

A significant effort is required to reduce China’s dependency on fossil fuels while also supporting worldwide efforts to reduce climate change and develop hydrogen energy systems. A hydrogen economy must include renewable energy sources (RESs), which can offer a clean and sustainable energy source for producing hydrogen. This study uses an integrated fuzzy AHP–fuzzy TOPSIS method to evaluate and rank renewable energy sources for developing a hydrogen economy in China. This is a novel approach because it can capture the uncertainty and vagueness in the decision-making process and provide a comprehensive and robust evaluation of the alternatives. Moreover, it considers multiple criteria and sub-criteria that reflect the environmental, economic, technical, social, and political aspects of RESs from the perspective of a hydrogen economy. This study identified five major criteria, fifteen sub-criteria, and six RES alternatives for hydrogen production. This integrated approach uses fuzzy AHP to evaluate and rank the criteria and sub-criteria and fuzzy TOPSIS to identify the most suitable and feasible RES. The results show that environmental, economic, and technical criteria are the most important criteria. Solar, wind, and hydropower are the top three RES alternatives that are most suitable and feasible. Furthermore, biomass, geothermal, and tidal energy were ranked lower, which might be due to the limitations and challenges in their adoption and performance in the context of the criteria and sub-criteria used for the analysis. This study’s findings add to the literature on guidelines to strategize for renewable energy adoption for the hydrogen economy in China.
An Innovative Sensor-Based Approach for Evaluating Performance of Flotation Circuit at the Expansion of Toromocho Copper Mine
Authors: Zhang Wei , Tan Zhiyong , Li Tengfei , Guan Xiaoqiang , Zhou Shiqing , Li Haibin , Wang Chao
Published: April 2023

Chinalco’s Toromocho mine, located in the Morococha district of Peru, treated 117,200 mtpd ores during last 10 years. It is currently undergoing expansion, treating approximately 52,740 mtpd of chalcopyrite ore since 2021. As with the commissioning of most large plants, the metallurgical performance levels produced after stability was achieved were below the design criteria; more specifically, the Cu overall recoveries were 80–82% compared with the design value of 85%, and the final concentrate Cu grades were 20–23% compared with the design value of 24% over the past 2 years. It is clear that the copper losses in the fine size fraction (<10 µm) were due to unoptimized hydrodynamics. To overcome this obstacle and improve overall performance, an innovative approach for flotation circuit evaluation was designed and set up, to improve understanding of the nature of the mineral losses, benchmark the cell hydrodynamics as a platform to improve flotation cell operation, and link the circuit setup and operation to gas dispersion characteristics. These needs were fulfilled by the developments in gas dispersion sensor technology and process measurement methodology of CRIST. Effectively utilizing the sensor technology, it was observed that the deficient recovery of the Toromocho expansion plant was due to poor recovery of <10 μm Cu, as a result of a lack of small bubbles (<1 mm) compared to the pilot circuit. The resulting data highlight the potential for recovery improvement (increased kinetics) via bubble size reduction and increased air rate.
State Estimation in a Biodigester via Nonlinear Logistic Observer: Theoretical and Simulation Approach
Authors: Rodríguez-Mata Abraham Efraím , Gómez-Vidal Emanuel , Lucho-Constantino Carlos Alexander , Medrano-Hermosillo Jesús A. , Baray-Arana Rogelio , López-Pérez Pablo A.
Published: April 2023

The state variables in a biodigester are predicted using an unstructured model, and this study offers an analytical design of a Non-Linear Logistic Observer (NLLO), subsequently comparing its performance to that of other prominent state estimators. Because of variables such as temperature, pH, high pressure, volumetric organic load (VOC), and hydraulic retention time (HRT), among others, biodigester samples can be affected by the use of physical sensors, which are not always practical owing to their sensitivity to the type of sampling and external disturbances. The use of virtual sensors represents one approach to solving this issue. In this work, we suggest experimentally validating a mathematical model, then analytically designing a novel NLLO observer, and finally comparing the results to those obtained using a sliding-mode estimator and a Luenberger observer. By including online CH4 and CO2 measurements as inputs to the proposed observer, the local observability analysis demonstrated that all state variables were recoverable. After showing how well the suggested observer performs in numerical experiments, a proof based on the Lyapunov theory is offered. The primary innovation of this study is the incorporation of a novel algorithm that has been empirically validated and has output resilience to input parametric perturbations.
Optimization of Spray-Drying Conditions of Microencapsulated Habanero Pepper (Capsicum chinense Jacq.) Extracts and Physicochemical Characterization of the Microcapsules
Authors: Avilés-Betanzos Kevin Alejandro , Cauich-Rodríguez Juan Valerio , Ramírez-Sucre Manuel Octavio , Rodríguez-Buenfil Ingrid Mayanin
Published: April 2023

The Habanero pepper (Capsicum chinense Jacq.) is recognized worldwide for its unique organoleptic characteristics, as well as for its capsaicin content; however, other bioactive compounds, such as phenolic compounds with bioactive properties (mainly antioxidant capacity), have been extracted (ultrasound) and identified in this fruit. Moreover, the extracts obtained by ultrasound present a high sensitivity to environmental conditions, making spray drying a viable option to avoid the degradation of bioactive compounds while maintaining their properties after microencapsulation. Response surface methodology (RSM) has been used to optimize spray-drying conditions such as the inlet temperature (IT) and maltodextrin:extract (M:E) ratio. Thus, the objective of this work was to establish the optimal spray-drying conditions (IT and M:E) of a Habanero pepper extract with a final characterization of the spray-dried product. Results showed that the optimal spray-drying conditions included an IT = 148 °C with an M:E = 0.8:1 w/w, where the antioxidant capacity (38.84 ± 0.22% inhibition), total polyphenol content (6.64 ± 0.08 mg Gallic acid equivalent/100 g powder), and several individual polyphenols, such as Protocatechuic acid (26.97 mg/100 g powder), Coumaric acid (2.68 mg/100 g powder), Rutin (18.01 mg/100 g powder), Diosmetin (1.74 mg/100 g powder), and Naringenin (0.98 mg/100 g powder), were evaluated. The microcapsules showed a spherical shape with concavities and moisture less than 5%, and the inclusion of bioactive compounds was confirmed using UPLC and FTIR. The final dried product has the potential to be used as an ingredient for functional food development.
Uses and Abuses of Religion in the Contemporary Legal Development of Montenegro: Undermining the Principle of Secularity
Authors: Vukasinovic Aleksandra , Damjanović Biljana
Published: April 2023

In the context of contemporary legal and political development, this work aims to analyze, through the prism of the constitutional principles of secularism and the civic state, the growing influence of religion on politics in Montenegro which has indirectly caused tectonic changes in the current legal relationship between the state and religious communities, at least temporarily questioning these everlasting values of constitutional democracy. Our basic hypothesis is that, in this correlation between the state and the Orthodox Church, religion is being used not only as a belief system which primarily belongs to the spiritual sphere of individuals, but also as a tool in redefining national identity and achieving politically desirable results at the public level. In the interpretation of positive legal regulations, this paper predominantly uses teleological and normative methodology together with sociological and axiological methods, necessary for understanding the broader context of the widened scope of bonding between religion and politics. This paper is also accompanied by relevant literature, which is promising in terms of solving the very interesting issues which once belonged to the “spirits of the past” and yet in the twenty-first century have been modernized at the place where the internal legal order of Montenegro and the Orthodox Church meet.
The Abbesses of Iceland
Authors: Kristjánsdóttir Steinunn
Published: April 2023

The female monasteries that operated in Iceland during medieval times, Kirkjubæjarklaustur and Reynistaðarklaustur, are the largest- and longest-operating institutions run by women to ever exist in the country. The names of the abbesses—the leaders of the female monasteries, some of which led the monasteries for up to half a century—are known from written documents and material remains that describe the abbesses’ diverse tasks and obligations while in office. In the article, the stories of the Icelandic abbesses will be told not only in order to highlight their contributions to the overall development of medieval Icelandic society but also to show their influence on the lives of people, lay and religious, in the country. Moreover, the abbesses’ stories demonstrate how each of them managed to synchronize with their natural and social surroundings while faithfully keeping their dedication to the Benedictine Order.