bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Quantitative Relationship between Oxidation Index and Chalcopyrite Flotation Recovery
Authors: Yang Xu , Li Yubiao , Chen Wen , Duan Wanqing , Xiao Qing , Jiang Tingting
Published: July 2022

The surface oxidation of chalcopyrite is one of the most important factors affecting its flotation performance. In this study, a critical oxidation degree is proposed to define “slight” and “significant” oxidation in terms of surface species and chalcopyrite flotation recovery. Slight oxidation enhanced chalcopyrite hydrophobicity, but significant oxidation reduced its recovery apparently. Microthermokinetic measurements indicated that the apparent activation energy (Ea) of chalcopyrite oxidation was reduced from around 173 kJ·mol−1 to 163 kJ·mol−1 when the reaction changed from slight oxidation to significant oxidation when applying H2O2. The surface oxidation degree was defined as the ratio of hydrophilic species to hydrophobic species. The highest recovery (94.8%) and contact angle (93°) were achieved at a concentration of 0.1 vol.% H2O2, with the lowest oxidation degree of 0.388 being observed. The oxidation degree was correlated to the flotation recovery, with a quantitative relationship (y = −298.81x + 213.05, y and x represent flotation recovery and oxidation degree, respectively, 0.388 ≤ x ≤ 0.618) being established, thereby giving a guideline to better manage chalcopyrite flotation by controlling its surface oxidation and SBX adsorption on chalcopyrite surfaces.
Super-Insulating Transparent Polyisocyanurate-Polyurethane Aerogels: Analysis of Thermal Conductivity and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Merillas Beatriz , Villafañe Fernando , Rodríguez-Pérez Miguel Ángel
Published: July 2022

A family of transparent polyisocyanurate-polyurethane (PUR-PIR) aerogels with an interesting combination of physical properties were synthesized. First, their textural properties were analyzed aiming to study catalyst influence on the final porous structures and densities. Their thermal conductivities were measured at different temperatures allowing observation of a clear trend relating the initial formulation with the porous structure and reaching values as low as 12 mW/mK, the lowest found in the literature for aerogels based on this polymer matrix. Contributions to thermal conductivity were calculated, improving the understanding of the porous structure-insulating performance relationship. Moreover, their mechanical properties were studied (elastic modulus, stress at different strains and elastic behavior). The aerogels showed tunable stiffness (elastic modulus from 6.32 to 0.13 MPa) by changing the catalyst concentration and significant elasticity. Thus, super-insulating transparent PUR-PIR aerogels with tailored mechanical properties were obtained opening a wide range of potential applications in the energy, building, automotive and aeronautical sectors, among others. The exceptional insulation of silica aerogels was reached at the same time that their general brittleness was improved while keeping good transparency to visible light (85%, 650 nm). Therefore, these aerogels may constitute an alternative to silica aerogels.
Comparative Study of Graphene Nanoplatelets and Multiwall Carbon Nanotubes-Polypropylene Composite Materials for Electromagnetic Shielding
Authors: Tudose Ioan Valentin , Mouratis Kyriakos , Ionescu Octavian Narcis , Romanitan Cosmin , Pachiu Cristina , Tutunaru-Brincoveanu Oana , Suchea Mirela Petruta , Koudoumas Emmanouel
Published: July 2022

Graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) and multiwall carbon nanotubes (CNTs)-polypropylene (PP) composite materials for electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding applications were fabricated as 1 mm thick panels and their properties were studied. Structural and morphologic characterization indicated that the obtained composite materials are not simple physical mixtures of these components but new materials with particular properties, the filler concentration and nature affecting the nanomaterials’ structure and their conductivity. In the case of GNPs, their characteristics have a dramatic effect of their functionality, since they can lead to composites with lower conductivity and less effective EMI shielding. Regarding CNTs-PP composite panels, these were found to exhibit excellent EMI attenuation of more than 40 dB, for 10% CNTs concentration. The development of PP-based composite materials with added value and particular functionality (i.e., electrical conductivity and EMI shielding) is highly significant since PP is one of the most used polymers, the best for injection molding, and virtually infinitely recyclable.
Shrinkable Hydrogel-Enhanced Biomarker Detection with X-ray Fluorescent Nanoparticles
Authors: Zheng Yiting , Huo Ruiqing , Su Ming
Published: July 2022

This paper reports a new method to enhance the sensitivity of nanoparticle-based protein detection with X-ray fluorescence by exploiting the large volume reduction of hydrogel upon dehydration. A carboxylated agarose hydrogel with uniaxial microchannels is used to allow rapid diffusion of nanoparticles and biomolecules into the hydrogel and water molecules out of the hydrogel. Carboxylated hydrogels are modified to capture protein biomarkers and X-ray fluorescence nanoparticles (iron oxide nanoparticles) are modified with antibodies that are specific to protein biomarkers. The presence of protein biomarkers in solution binds the nanoparticles on the hydrogel channels. The dehydration of hydrogels leads to a size reduction of over 80 times, which increases the number of nanoparticles in the interaction volume of the primary X-ray beam and the intensity of characteristic X-ray fluorescence signal. A detection limit of 2 μg/mL for protein detection has been established by determining the number of nanoparticles using X-ray fluorescence.
A System of Rapidly Detecting Escherichia Coli in Food Based on a Nanoprobe and Improved ATP Bioluminescence Technology
Authors: Sun Zhen , Guo Jia , Wan Wenbo , Wang Chunxing
Published: July 2022

Bacterial contamination is an important factor causing food security issues. Among the bacteria, Escherichia coli is one of the main pathogens of food-borne microorganisms. However, traditional bacterial detection approaches cannot meet the requirements of real-time and on-site detection. Thus, it is of great significance to develop a rapid and accurate detection of bacteria in food to ensure food safety and safeguard human health. The pathogen heat-treatment module was designed in this paper based on the techniques including nanoprobe, pathogen heat-treatment, graphene transparent electrode (GTE), and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) bioluminescence technology. The system mainly consists of two parts: one is the optical detection unit; the other is the data processing unit. And it can quickly and automatically detect the number of bacterial colonies in food such as milk etc. The system uses not only the probe to capture and enrich E. coli by antigen-antibody interaction but also the heat treatment to increase the amount of ATP released from bacterial cells within five minutes. To enhance the detecting accuracy and sensitivity, the electric field generated by GTE is adopted in the system to enrich ATP. Compared to the other conventional methods, the linear correlation coefficient of the system can be reached 0.975, and the system meets the design requirements. Under the optimal experimental conditions, the detection can be completed within 25 min, and the detectable concentration of bacteria is in the range of 3.1 × 101–106 CFU/mL. This system satisfies the demands of a fast and on-site inspection.
A Preparation Method of Nano-Pesticide Improves the Selective Toxicity toward Natural Enemies
Authors: Yan Shuo , Gu Na , Peng Min , Jiang Qinhong , Liu Enliang , Li Zhiqiang , Yin Meizhen , Shen Jie , Du Xiangge , Dong Min
Published: July 2022

Various nano-delivery systems have been designed to deliver synthetic/botanical pesticides for improved bioactivity. However, the enhanced toxicity of nanocarrier-loaded pesticides may injure the natural enemies, and their selective toxicity should be evaluated before the large-scale application. In this context, a star polymer (SPc)-based cyantraniliprole (CNAP) nano-delivery system was constructed, and its selective toxicity was evaluated using pest Frankliniella occidentalis (WFT) and predator Orius sauteri. The amide NH of CNAP could assemble with carbonyl groups or tertiary amines of SPc through hydrogen bonds to form CNAP/SPc complex spontaneously. The above self-assembly decreased the particle size of CNAP from 808 to 299 nm. With the help of SPc, the lethal concentration 50 (LC50) values of CNAP decreased from 99 to 54 mg/L and 230 to 173 mg/L toward WFTs and O. sauteri due to the enhancement of broad-spectrum bioactivity. Interestingly, the toxicity selective ratio (TSR) of CNAP increased from 2.33 to 3.23 with the help of SPc, revealing the higher selectivity of SPc-loaded CNAP. To our knowledge, it was the first successful exploration of the selective toxicity of nanocarrier-loaded pesticides, and the higher selective toxicity of SPc-loaded CNAP was beneficial for alleviating the negative impacts on predators.
Influence of Prefecture-Level Yield of Not-for-Sale Vegetables on Vegetable Intake in Japan: A Natural Experiment
Authors: Machida Daisuke
Published: July 2022

Increased vegetable intake contributes to better health for people. The distribution of not-for-sale vegetables is an important source of vegetable intake in Japan. This study examined the impact of prefecture-level yield of not-for-sale vegetables on vegetable intake in Japan. This study regarded the increase in yield of not-for-sale Chinese cabbage in Nagano Prefecture in 2012 as a natural experiment. The years 2012 and 2016 were the large-scale survey years of the Japanese National Health and Nutrition Survey. Therefore, the effect of the change in prefecture-level yield of not-for-sale vegetables on vegetable intake was evaluated by comparing the changes in Chinese cabbage intake in Nagano between 2012 and 2016 with those of other prefectures classified in the same regional block as Nagano. Statistical analysis was performed using general linear models to examine the interaction of year and prefecture with Chinese cabbage intake. Consequently, the regression coefficient for the interaction term was −3.38 (95% CI, −9.59–2.83), that of the model adjusted for basic characteristics and energy intake was −2.99 (95% CI, −9.22–3.24), and that of the model adding health-related variables was −5.03 (95% CI, −12.40–2.34). The prefecture-level yield of not-for-sale vegetables typically had a minor effect on vegetable intake.
Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes and Actinobacteria in Human Milk and Maternal Adiposity
Authors: Chavoya-Guardado Martha Alejandra , Vasquez-Garibay Edgar Manuel , Ruiz-Quezada Sandra Luz , Ramírez-Cordero María Inés , Larrosa-Haro Alfredo , Castro-Albarran Jorge
Published: July 2022

The main objective was to explore the relationship between the microbiota of human milk and adiposity in Mexican mothers during the first lactation stage. Methods: Seventy lactating women were included. Adiposity by anthropometric measurements and by bioelectric impedance was obtained. The donation of human milk was requested, from which bacterial DNA was extracted and qPCR of the 16S region was performed. The Mann–Whitney U test, Spearman and Pearson correlations, and multiple linear regressions models were also calculated. Results: The median percentage of Bacteroidetes had a direct and significant correlation with normal adiposity, current BMI, waist circumference, and body fat percentage. The correlation with current BMI became significantly inverse in women with BMI ≥ 25. In women with normal BMI, the percentage of Actinobacteria showed a direct and significant correlation with current BMI, waist circumference, and percentage of body fat. Multiple linear regressions showed that pre-pregnancy BMI was the variable with the highest predictive value with the Bacteroidetes phyla in normal BMI and in BMI ≥ 25. Conclusions: the adiposity of the woman before pregnancy and during lactation would have an important effect on the abundance of Bacteroidetes and Actinobacteria in human milk.
Sarcopenia, Obesity, Sarcopenic Obesity and Risk of Poor Nutritional Status in Polish Community-Dwelling Older People Aged 60 Years and Over
Authors: Murawiak Marika , Krzymińska-Siemaszko Roma , Kaluźniak-Szymanowska Aleksandra , Lewandowicz Marta , Tobis Sławomir , Wieczorowska-Tobis Katarzyna , Deskur-Śmielecka Ewa
Published: July 2022

Poor nutritional status (PNS) is a modifiable factor determining abnormalities in body composition-sarcopenia, obesity, and sarcopenic obesity (SO). We aimed to assess the prevalence of these conditions and their association with PNS in 211 community-dwelling older adults. Sarcopenia was diagnosed based on the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People 2 (EWGSOP2) recommendations. Obesity was diagnosed with the Percent Body Fat (>42% in women and >30% in men). Subjects fulfilling the criteria for obesity and concomitantly with reduced lower and/or upper limbs muscle strength and muscle mass (ALM/BMI < 0.512 in women and <0.789 in men) were classified as SO phenotype. Participants without obesity and sarcopenia were categorized as ‘normal’ phenotype. Nutritional status was estimated with the Mini Nutritional Assessment, and a score of <24 indicated PNS. In total, 49.8% participants had abnormal body composition (60.7% men and 42.5% women; p = 0.001). Sarcopenia, obesity, and SO were diagnosed in 10%, 32.7%, and 7.1% of subjects. PNS was found in 31.3% of the study sample. Its prevalence differed between phenotypes: 81% in sarcopenia, 60% in SO, 14.5% in obesity, and 28.3% in the ‘normal’ phenotype group (p = 0.000). Based on the results, abnormal body composition is prevalent in elderly subjects. Sarcopenia and SO are often associated with PNS.
Obesity and Lifestyle Habits among Kidney Transplant Recipients
Authors: Tarsitano Maria Grazia , Porchetti Gabriele , Caldara Rossana , Secchi Antonio , Conte Caterina
Published: July 2022

Background: Obesity may negatively impact clinical outcomes in kidney transplant (KT) recipients. Limited information is available on the prevalence of obesity in this population, and on the lifestyle habits associated with obesity. Methods: we conducted an online, anonymous survey to assess of the proportion of KT recipients with obesity, adherence to the Mediterranean diet (i.e., a dietary regimen with proven renal and cardiovascular outcomes) using the MEDI-Lite questionnaire, and level of physical activity using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) short form among KT recipients. Results: 255 KT recipients participated. Median (25th–75th quartile) age was 56.0 (48.0; 62.0) years, 43.9% female, median BMI 23.9 (21.6; 26.5) kg/m2. The proportion of KT recipients with obesity was 9.8% (95% confidence interval, 6.4 to 14.1%). Adequate adherence to the Mediterranean diet (Medi-Lite score >9) was overall low (44.7%; 40.0 vs. 45.2% in those with or without obesity, respectively; p = 0.618). In participants with obesity the Medi-Lite score inversely correlated with BMI (R = −0.45; p < 0.025). Overall, 30.6% of participants had a low level of physical activity (44.0 vs. 29.1% of those with or without obesity, respectively; p = 0.125). The amount of energy expended walking was significantly lower among participants with obesity (462 (0.0; 1436) vs. 1056 (433; 2005) METs/week, p = 0.017). Conclusions: the burden of obesity among KT recipients is similar to that of the general population. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet was generally low, and nearly one-third of participants had a low level of physical activity. Building specialized multidisciplinary teams to manage obesity in KT recipients is urgently needed.
Amino Acids, B Vitamins, and Choline May Independently and Collaboratively Influence the Incidence and Core Symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Jennings Laurel , Basiri Raedeh
Published: July 2022

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder of variable severity, characterized by difficulties in social interaction, communication, and restricted or repetitive patterns of thought and behavior. In 2018, the incidence of ASD was 2.4 times higher than estimated in 2000. Behavior and brain development abnormalities are present in the complex disorder of ASD. Nutritional status plays a key role in the incidence and severity of the core symptoms of ASD. The aim of this study was to review the available peer-reviewed studies that evaluated the relationship between amino acids, choline, B vitamins, and ASD incidence and/or severity of symptoms. Through examining plasma profiles, urine samples, and dietary intake, researchers found that low choline, abnormal amino acid, and low B vitamin levels were present in children with ASD compared to those without ASD. The evidence supports the need for future research that implements simultaneous supplementation of all essential nutrients in individuals with ASD and among prenatal mothers. Future evidence could lead to scientific breakthroughs, ultimately reducing the rates of ASD incidence and severity of symptoms by applying nutritional interventions in at-risk populations.
Lifestyle Screening Tools for Children in the Community Setting: A Systematic Review
Authors: Krijger Anne , ter Borg Sovianne , Elstgeest Liset , van Rossum Caroline , Verkaik-Kloosterman Janneke , Steenbergen Elly , Raat Hein , Joosten Koen
Published: July 2022

Screening of children’s lifestyle, including nutrition, may contribute to the prevention of lifestyle-related conditions in childhood and later in life. Screening tools can evaluate a wide variety of lifestyle factors, resulting in different (risk) scores and prospects of action. This systematic review aimed to summarise the design, psychometric properties and implementation of lifestyle screening tools for children in community settings. We searched the electronic databases of Embase, Medline (PubMed) and CINAHL to identify articles published between 2004 and July 2020 addressing lifestyle screening tools for children aged 0–18 years in the community setting. Independent screening and selection by two reviewers was followed by data extraction and the qualitative analysis of findings. We identified 41 unique lifestyle screening tools, with the majority addressing dietary and/or lifestyle behaviours and habits related to overweight and obesity. The domains mostly covered were nutrition, physical activity and sedentary behaviour/screen time. Tool validation was limited, and deliberate implementation features, such as the availability of clear prospects of actions following tool outcomes, were lacking. Despite the multitude of existing lifestyle screening tools for children in the community setting, there is a need for a validated easy-to-administer tool that enables risk classification and offers specific prospects of action to prevent children from adverse health outcomes.
Buckwheat, Fava Bean and Hemp Flours Fortified with Anthocyanins and Other Bioactive Phytochemicals as Sustainable Ingredients for Functional Food Development
Authors: Neacsu Madalina , Christie James S. , Duncan Gary J. , Vaughan Nicholas J. , Russell Wendy R.
Published: July 2022

Facing a climate emergency and an increasingly unhealthy population, functional foods should not only address health issues but must be prepared from sustainable ingredients while contributing to our sustainable development goals, such as tackling waste and promoting a healthy environment. High-protein crop flours, i.e., buckwheat, hemp and fava bean, are investigated as potential matrices to be fortified with key bioactive phytochemicals from soft fruits to explore potential waste valorization and to deliver sustainable functional food ingredients. Hemp flour provided the best matrix for anthocyanin fortification, adsorbing of 88.45 ± 0.88% anthocyanins and 69.77 mg/kg of additional phytochemicals. Buckwheat and fava bean absorbed 78.64 ± 3.15% and 50.46 ± 2.94% of anthocyanins 118.22 mg/kg and 103.88 mg/kg of additional phytochemicals, respectively. During the fortification, there was no detectable adsorption of the berry sugars to the flours, and the quantities of free sugars from the flours were also removed. One gram of fortified hemp flour provides the same amount of anthocyanins found in 20 g of fresh bilberries but has substantially less sugar. The optimum conditions for high protein flour fortification with anthocyanins was established and showed that it is a viable way to reduce and valorize potential agricultural waste, contributing to a circular and greener nutrition.
Pathogenicity and Metabolites of Purpureocillium lavendulum YMF1.00683 against Meloidogyne incognita
Authors: Bao Zheng-Xue , Liu Rui , Li Chun-Qiang , Pan Xue-Rong , Zhao Pei-Ji
Published: July 2022

Purpureocillium lavendulum is a biological control agent with several registered products that can parasitize the eggs and larvae of various pathogenic nematodes. In this study, the pathogenicity and secondary metabolites of the fungus P. lavendulum YMF1.00683 were investigated. The strain YMF1.00683 had infection efficiency against the plant root-knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita. The strain’s process of infecting nematodes was observed under a microscope. Moreover, seven metabolites, including a new sterol (1), were isolated and identified from cultures of YMF1.0068 in Sabouraud’s dextrose agar. A bioassay showed that 5-methoxymethyl-1H-pyrrole-2-carboxaldehyde (7) is toxic to M. incognita and affects the egg hatching. It caused 98.23% mortality in M. incognita and could inhibit 80.78% of the hatching eggs at 400 μg/mL over a period of 96 h. Furthermore, 5-methoxymethyl-1H-pyrrole-2-carboxaldehyde (7) showed a strong avoidance effect at 40 ppm, and its chemotactic index value was −0.37. The results indicate that P. lavendulum could produce active metabolites against M. incognita.
Computational Methods in Cooperation with Experimental Approaches to Design Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase 1B Inhibitors in Type 2 Diabetes Drug Design: A Review of the Achievements of This Century
Authors: Campos-Almazán Mara Ibeth , Hernández-Campos Alicia , Castillo Rafael , Sierra-Campos Erick , Valdez-Solana Mónica , Avitia-Domínguez Claudia , Téllez-Valencia Alfredo
Published: July 2022

Protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) dephosphorylates phosphotyrosine residues and is an important regulator of several signaling pathways, such as insulin, leptin, and the ErbB signaling network, among others. Therefore, this enzyme is considered an attractive target to design new drugs against type 2 diabetes, obesity, and cancer. To date, a wide variety of PTP1B inhibitors that have been developed by experimental and computational approaches. In this review, we summarize the achievements with respect to PTP1B inhibitors discovered by applying computer-assisted drug design methodologies (virtual screening, molecular docking, pharmacophore modeling, and quantitative structure–activity relationships (QSAR)) as the principal strategy, in cooperation with experimental approaches, covering articles published from the beginning of the century until the time this review was submitted, with a focus on studies conducted with the aim of discovering new drugs against type 2 diabetes. This review encourages the use of computational techniques and includes helpful information that increases the knowledge generated to date about PTP1B inhibition, with a positive impact on the route toward obtaining a new drug against type 2 diabetes with PTP1B as a molecular target.
Complexed Polymer Film-Forming Spray: An Optimal Delivery System for Secretome of Mesenchymal Stem Cell as Diabetic Wound Dressing?
Authors: Umar Abd. Kakhar , Luckanagul Jittima Amie , Zothantluanga James H. , Sriwidodo Sriwidodo
Published: July 2022

Diabetes-related wounds have physiological factors that make healing more complicated. High sugar levels can increase microbial infection risk while limiting nutrition and oxygen transfer to the wound area. The secretome of mesenchymal stem cells has been widely known for its efficacy in regenerative therapy. However, applying the secretome directly to the wound can reduce its effectiveness. In this review, we examined the literature on synthesizing the combinations of carboxymethyl chitosan, hyaluronic acid, and collagen tripeptides, as well as the possibility of physicochemical properties enhancement of the hydrogel matrix, which could potentially be used as an optimal delivery system of stem cell’s secretome for diabetic wound healing.
Safety and Pharmaceutical Evaluation of a Novel Natural Polymer, Ocicum, as Solubility and Dissolution Enhancer in Solid Dispersion
Authors: Manzoor Mobina , Raza Syed Atif , Asim Mulazim Hussain , Bukhari Nadeem Irfan , Arshad Shumaila , Zafar Uzma
Published: July 2022

Plant mucilages are commonly employed as excipients in pharmaceutical manufacturing. Ocimum basilicum (Lamiaceae family), a source of hydrophilic mucilage referred herein as Ocicum, was evaluated for the solubility enhancer of a model drug, aceclofenac, in solid dispersions prepared using different methods. Polymer was extracted from O. basilicum and solid dispersions of aceclofenac were fabricated with Ocicum or Poloxamer 407 using polymer-to-drug ratios of 1:1, 1:2 and 1:3 utilizing solvent evaporation, lyophilization and melt methods. Ocicum was evaluated for its safety via acute toxicity study including different biochemical and hematological parameters including liver and kidney profiles. Moreover, different characterization studies including melting-point, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and differential thermal analysis (TGA) were used for evaluation of polymer and solid dispersions. Furthermore, solubility and dissolution studies were performed to confirm solubility enhancement. Ocicum was found to be safer, and different characterization studies confirmed the purity of the compounds. In addition, Ocicum exhibited up to 6.27-fold enhanced solubility as compared to pure aceclofenac; similarly, 4.51-fold increased solubility by the synthetic polymer in their respective solid dispersions was shown. Furthermore, Ocicum-based solid dispersions showed substantial improvement in dissolution of aceclofenac. Therefore, it can be concluded from the above-mentioned results that Ocicum might be used as an economical natural oral delivery carrier alternative to the synthetic polymers.
Wound-Healing Promotion and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Carvacrol Prodrugs/Hyaluronic Acid Formulations
Authors: Marinelli Lisa , Cacciatore Ivana , Costantini Erica , Dimmito Marilisa Pia , Serra Federica , Di Stefano Antonio , Reale Marcella
Published: July 2022

Background. Wound healing (WH) is a complex process involving several stages, such as hemostasis, inflammation, re-epithelialization, and remodeling. Many factors can impair WH, and different pharmacological approaches were studied to date, but the increase in antibiotic resistance, invasiveness, treatment duration, and high cost, have often hampered the resolution of the wound. In this study, we investigated the possible application of water-soluble carvacrol prodrugs (WSCPs) and hyaluronic acid (HA) and their formulations (WSCPs/HA) to improve WH and regulate the inflammatory response. Materials and methods. Firstly, the cytotoxicity of 0.1, 1 and 10 µg/mL of HA, WSCPs and WSCPs/HA formulations were evaluated on HaCaT cells and THP-1 cell lines. The ability of WSCPs/HA formulations to modulate wound repair was evaluated in an in vitro model of WH, using HaCaT cells at 6, 18, and 24 h. The expression of WH mediators, after wound closure was determined by qRT-PCR. Following, we polarized THP-1 cells in M1/M2-like macrophages and tested the anti-inflammatory properties of WSCPs/HA formulations. After, we tested the in vitro WH model for the effects of conditioned medium (CM) from M1/M2-like cells cultured in the presence of WSCPs/HA. Results. Results showed that WSCPs/HA formulations were able to significantly raise the wound closure rate, compared to the single constituents, promoting a complete wound closure after 18 h for WSCP1/HA (10 µg/mL) and after 24 h for WSCP2/HA (10 µg/mL), modulating the MMPs, TGFβ, and COX-2 gene expression. The effects of CM derived from M1/M2 polarized cells cultured in the presence of WSCPs/HA determined WH regulation, with a better ability of the WSCP2/HA formulation to modulate the time-dependent expression of reparative and inflammatory mediators. Conclusion. Our data underline the possible application of WSCPs/HA formulations as bioactive agents for the regulation of the wound repair process by the modulation of inflammatory and remodeling phases, affecting the activity of immune cells.
Biodegradable Films Prepared from Pulp Lignocellulose Adhesives of Urea Formaldehyde Resin Modified by Biosulfonate
Authors: Ma Yongjie , Luo Yanxin , Zhang Qiannan , Gao Yanming , Li Jianshe , Shah Sadiq , Wang Xiaozhuo , Zhang Xueyan
Published: July 2022

Traditional low-density polyethylene (LDPE) film causes environmental pollution; there is a pressing need to make new bio-based polymers for alternative products, to meet agricultural production needs and for sustainable ecological development. In this study, urea-formaldehyde resin (UF) was modified with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and 1–2.5% bio-based sulfonate (BBS). The influence of BBS inducing on the functional groups, microstructure, and thermal behavior was evaluated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). A biodegradable film was prepared with modified UF resin as adhesive and pulp lignocellulose as raw material. The biodegradable mulch film samples were tested for biodegradability, water retention, and cooling soil temperature characters using LDPE and no mulching (NM) as a control. The results showed that with the increase of BBS content, the viscosity and reactivity of modified PUF resin increased, and the free formaldehyde content decreased. A 2%BBS modified PUF resin (2.0BBS/PUF) accelerated the curing process of the PUF resin, formed a flexible macromolecular network structure, and enhanced the toughness of the resin. The biodegradable mulch prepared with PUF, BBS, and 2.0BBS/PUF as adhesives had good water retention. BBS modification increased the degradation rate of mulch by 17.53% compared to the PUF. Three biodegradable films compared with LDPE and NM significantly reduced the soil temperature under summer cucumber cultivation, and the 2.0BBS/PUF coating had the lowest diurnal temperature difference, which provided a suitable soil environment for crop growth.
Optimizing the Conditions of Cationic Polyacrylamide Inverse Emulsion Synthesis Reaction to Obtain High–Molecular–Weight Polymers
Authors: Nguyen Tung Huy , Nguyen Nhung Thi , Nguyen Thao Thi Phuong , Doan Ngoc Thi , Tran Lam Anh Thi , Nguyen Linh Pham Duy , Bui Thanh Tien
Published: July 2022

Cationic polyacrylamide (CPAM) emulsifier is widely applied in the wastewater treatment industry, mining industry, paper industry, cosmetic chemistry, etc. However, optimization of input parameters in the synthesis of CPAM by using the traditional approach (i.e., changing one factor while leaving the others fixed at a particular set of conditions) would require a long time and a high cost of input materials. Onsite mass production of CPAM requires fast optimization of input parameters (i.e., stirring speed, reaction temperature and time, the amount of initiator, etc.) to minimize the production cost of specific–molecular–weight CPAM. Therefore, in this study, we synthesized CPAM using reverse emulsion copolymerization, and proposed response surface models for predicting the average molecular weight and reaction yield based on those input parameters. This study offers a time–saving tool for onsite mass production of specific–molecular–weight CPAM. Based on our response surface models, we obtained the optimal conditions for the synthesis of CPAM emulsions, which yielded medium–molecular–weight polymers and high conversion, with a reaction temperature of 60–62 °C, stirring speed of 2500–2600 rpm, and reaction time of 7 h. Quadratic models showed a good fit for predicting molecular weight (Adj.R2 = 0.9888, coefficient of variation = 2.08%) and reaction yield (Adj.R2 = 0.9982, coefficient of variation = 0.50%). The models suggested by our study would benefit the cost–minimization of CPAM mass production, where one could find optimal conditions for synthesizing different molecular weights of CPAM more quickly than via the traditional approach.
A Study on the Gamma Radiation Protection Effectiveness of Nano/Micro-MgO-Reinforced Novel Silicon Rubber for Medical Applications
Authors: Sayyed M. I. , Al-Ghamdi Hanan , Almuqrin Aljawhara H. , Yasmin Sabina , Elsafi Mohamed
Published: July 2022

In this work, we examined novel polymer composites for use in radiation protection applications. These prepared polymers are non-toxic compared with lead and show potential to be used as protective gear in different medical applications where low-energy photons are utilized. We prepared silicon rubber (SR) with different concentrations of micro- and nano-sized MgO. We used a HPGe detector to measure radiation attenuation factors at different photon energies, ranging from 59.6 to 1333 keV. We reported the effect of particle size on the attenuation parameters and found that the linear attenuation factors for SR with nano-MgO were higher than for SR with micro-MgO. The mean free path (MFP) for pure SR and SR with micro- and nano-sized MgO were determined, and we found that silicon rubber with MgO (both micro- and nano-sized) has a lower MFP than pure SR. The linear attenuation coefficient results show the importance of using SR with high MgO content for low-energy radiation protection applications. Moreover, the half-value layer (HVL) results demonstrate that we need a certain thickness of SR with nano-MgO to effectively reduce the intensity of the low-energy photons.
Spiro-Twisted Benzoxazine Derivatives Bearing Nitrile Group for All-Solid-State Polymer Electrolytes in Lithium Batteries
Authors: Lee Jen-Yu , Yu Tsung-Yu , Yeh Shih-Chieh , Wu Nae-Lih , Jeng Ru-Jong
Published: July 2022

In this study, two nitrile-functionalized spiro-twisted benzoxazine monomers, namely 2,2′-((6,6,6′,6′-tetramethyl-6,6′,7,7′-tetrahydro-2H,2′H-8,8′-spirobi[indeno[5,6-e][1,3]oxazin]-3,3′(4H,4′H)-diyl)bis(4,1-phenylene))diacetonitrile (TSBZBC) and 4,4′-(6,6,6′,6′-tetramethyl-6,6′,7,7′-tetrahydro-2H,2′H-8,8′-spirobi[indeno[5,6-e][1,3]oxazin]-3,3′(4H,4′H)-diyl)dibenzonitrile (TSBZBN) were successfully developed as cross-linkable precursors. In addition, the incorporation of the nitrile group by covalent bonding onto the crosslinked spiro-twisted molecular chains improve the miscibility of SPE membranes with lithium salts while maintaining good mechanical properties. Owing to the presence of a high fractional free volume of spiro-twisted matrix, the –CN groups would have more space for rotation and vibration to assist lithium migration, especially for the benzyl cyanide-containing SPE. When combined with poly (ethylene oxide) (PEO) electrolytes, a new type of CN-containing semi-interpenetrating polymer networks for solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) were prepared. The PEO-TSBZBC and PEO-TSBZBN composite SPEs (with 20 wt% crosslinked structure in the polymer) are denoted as the BC20 and BN20, respectively. The BC20 sample exhibited an ionic conductivity (σ) of 3.23 × 10−4 S cm−1 at 80 °C and a Li+ ion transference number of 0.187. The LiFePO4 (LFP)|BC20|Li sample exhibited a satisfactory charge–discharge capacity of 163.6 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C (with approximately 100% coulombic efficiency). Furthermore, the Li|BC20|Li cell was more stable during the Li plating/stripping process than the Li|BN20|Li and Li|PEO|Li samples. The Li|BC20|Li symmetric cell could be cycled continuously for more than 2700 h without short-circuiting. In addition, the specific capacity of the LFP|BC20|Li cell retained 87% of the original value after 50 cycles.
An Iterative Backbone Algorithm for Service Network Design Problems
Authors: Gao Ai , Jin Xin , Diao Xudong
Published: July 2022

Service network design problems arise at airlines, trucking companies, and railroads wherever there is a need to determine cost-minimizing routes and schedules, given resource availability and service constraints. In recent years, the application of consolidation-based service network design in the express service has attracted lots of academic attention due to the rapid growth of the express industry. This paper studies the consolidation-based service network design problem, which jointly determines the commodity flow, vehicle dispatching, and fleet sizing. We propose a mixed-integer optimization model to address the problem and design an efficient iterative backbone algorithm to solve large-scale real-world problems. The numerical results of large-scale instances confirmed that the solution obtained by our proposed algorithm is better than that of the primal model, and the running time taken is less than half that of the general solution approach. The computational study confirmed the effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed algorithm.
Research on Mobile Machinery NOx Emission Control Based on a Physical Model and Closed-Loop Control
Authors: Yue Guangzhao , Wu Hanming , Zhang Tiezhu , Liu Ruijun , Sun Jianxin
Published: July 2022

Mobile machinery means a power-driven vehicle that is specifically designed and constructed to perform work on or off the road. To reduce the nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions that come from mobile machinery, a combination of a physical model and closed-loop control is applied to the selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system. Based on the design of the variable cross-section extended exhaust structure, the differential pressure measurement was achieved, and the physical model of the exhaust flow based on the differential pressure was established. Based on the analysis of the heat and mass transfer process of the SCR catalyst, a prediction model for the internal temperature field of the catalyst was established by combining the upstream and downstream exhaust temperature sensors. Using the SCR downstream nitrogen oxides signal and the proportional–integral–derivative (PID) closed-loop control algorithm, segmented PID closed-loop control under the large hysteresis response of the SCR system was realized. The above algorithms were used to form the control code through MATLAB/Simulink and downloaded to the embedded microprocessor. The test results show that the established model can realize the real-time calculation of the exhaust gas flow rate and the internal temperature of the catalyst. Under steady-state conditions, the calculation error of the exhaust flow rate is less than ±3%, and the calculation error of the catalyst temperature is less than ±5%. Under transient conditions, the calculation error of the exhaust flow rate is less than ±9%, and the calculation error of the catalyst temperature is less than ±8%. The nitrogen–oxygen signal-based PID closed-loop algorithm can improve the nitrogen–oxygen conversion efficiency and control accuracy of the model.
Method for Solving the Microwave Heating Temperature Distribution of the TE10 Mode
Authors: Yang Biao , Huang Hongbin , Zhou Liexing , Jin Huaiping
Published: July 2022

Microwave heating is a process in which the electric, magnetic, and temperature fields are coupled with each other and are characterised by strong non-linearity, high time variability, and infinite dimensionality. This paper proposes a method for predicting the microwave heating temperature distribution of the TE10 mode, because the traditional numerical calculation method is not conducive to designing microwave controllers. First, the spatial distribution of the main electromagnetic mode TE10 waves in a rectangular waveguide was analysed using the principal mode analysis method. An expression for the transient dissipated power and a heat balance equation with infinite-dimensional characteristics were constructed. Then, the microwave heating model was decomposed into electromagnetic and temperature field submodels. A time discretization approach was used to approximate the transient constant dielectric constant. The heating medium was meshed to solve the electric field strength and transient dissipated power in discrete domains, and the temperature distribution was obtained by substituting this value into the finite-dimensional temperature field submodel. Finally, the validity of the proposed numerical model was verified by comparing the results with the numerical results obtained with the conventional finite element method. The methodology presented in this paper provides a solid basis for designing microwave heating controllers.
Understanding Cd2+ Adsorption Mechanism on Montmorillonite Surfaces by Combining DFT and MD
Authors: Du Jia , Wang Qinghe , Chen Jun
Published: July 2022

The adsorption mechanism of Cd2+ on different cleavage planes of montmorillonite was investigated using density functional theory (DFT) calculations and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The most stable adsorption energies of Cd2+ on the (001) and (010) surfaces were −88.74 kJ/mol and −283.55 kJ/mol, respectively. On the (001) surface, Cd2+ was adsorbed on the centre of the silicon–oxygen ring by electrostatic interactions, whereas on the (010) surface, Cd2+ was adsorbed between two ≡Al–OH groups and formed two covalent bonds with O, which was mainly due to the interaction between the Cd s and O p orbitals. Upon the partial substitution of Na+ by Cd2+, Cd2+ was adsorbed on the (001) surface as inner-sphere surface complexes, with a hydration number of 5.01 and a diffusion coefficient of 0 m2/s. Whereas, when Cd2+ completely replaced Na+, part of the Cd2+ moved from the inner-sphere surface complexes to the outer-sphere surface complexes owing to its competitive adsorption. In this case, its hydration number became 6.05, and the diffusion coefficient increased to 1.83 × 10−10 m2/s. This study provides the theoretical background necessary for the development of montmorillonite-based adsorbents.
Parametric Sensitivity Analysis and Performance Evaluation of High-Temperature Macro-Encapsulated Packed-Bed Latent Heat Storage System Operating with Transient Inlet Boundary Conditions
Authors: Mehrtash Mehdi , Tari Ilker
Published: July 2022

This paper presents the results of comprehensive numerical analyses in the performance of a packed-bed latent heat storage (PBLHS) system in terms of key performance indicators, namely charging time, charging rate, charging capacity, and charging efficiency. Numerical simulations are performed for the packed bed region using a transient two-dimensional axisymmetric model based on the local thermal non-equilibrium (LTNE) approach. The model considers the variation in the inlet temperature of the system as these storage systems are typically integrated with solar collectors that operate with intermittent solar radiation intensity. The model results are validated using the experimental data for temperature distribution throughout the bed. The simulations are carried out while changing the operating parameters such as the capsule diameter, bed porosity, inlet velocity, and the height-to-diameter aspect ratio to investigate their impact on the performance indicators. Observations indicate that low porosity, large-sized capsules, low inlet velocity, and a low height-to-diameter aspect ratio increase the charging time. In terms of achieving a high charging rate, a bed with low porosity, small-sized capsules, a high inflow velocity, and a high height-to-diameter aspect ratio is deemed advantageous. It is shown that raising the flow velocity and the height-to-diameter aspect ratio can improve the charging efficiency. These findings provide recommendations for optimizing the design and operating conditions of the system within the practical constraints.
Open Science Knowledge Production: Addressing Epistemological Challenges and Ethical Implications
Authors: Hofmann Bjørn
Published: July 2022

Open Science (OS) is envisioned to have a wide range of benefits including being more transparent, shared, accessible, and collaboratively developed than traditional science. Despite great enthusiasm, there are also several challenges with OS. In order to ensure that OS obtains its benefits, these challenges need to be addressed. Accordingly, the objective of this study is to provide an overview of one type of challenge, i.e., epistemological challenges with OS knowledge production, and their ethical implications. Based on a literature review, it (a) reveals factors undermining the envisioned benefits of OS, (b) identifies negative effects on knowledge production, and (c) exposes epistemological challenges with the various phases of the OS process. The main epistemic challenges are related to governance, framing, looping effects, proper data procurement, validation, replication, bias, and polarization. The ethical implications are injustice, reduced benefit (efficiency), increased harm (as a consequence of poor-quality science), deception and manipulation (reduced autonomy), and lack of trustworthiness. Accordingly, to obtain the envisioned benefits of OS, we need to address these epistemological challenges and their ethical implications.
Multi-Category Segmentation of Sentinel-2 Images Based on the Swin UNet Method
Authors: Yao Junyuan , Jin Shuanggen
Published: July 2022

Medium-resolution remote sensing satellites have provided a large amount of long time series and full coverage data for Earth surface monitoring. However, the different objects may have similar spectral values and the same objects may have different spectral values, which makes it difficult to improve the classification accuracy. Semantic segmentation of remote sensing images is greatly facilitated via deep learning methods. For medium-resolution remote sensing images, the convolutional neural network-based model does not achieve good results due to its limited field of perception. The fast-emerging vision transformer method with self-attentively capturing global features well provides a new solution for medium-resolution remote sensing image segmentation. In this paper, a new multi-class segmentation method is proposed for medium-resolution remote sensing images based on the improved Swin UNet model as a pure transformer model and a new pre-processing, and the image enhancement method and spectral selection module are designed to achieve better accuracy. Finally, 10-categories segmentation is conducted with 10-m resolution Sentinel-2 MSI (Multi-Spectral Imager) images, which is compared with other traditional convolutional neural network-based models (DeepLabV3+ and U-Net with different backbone networks, including VGG, ResNet50, MobileNet, and Xception) with the same sample data, and results show higher Mean Intersection Over Union (MIOU) (72.06%) and better accuracy (89.77%) performance. The vision transformer method has great potential for medium-resolution remote sensing image segmentation tasks.