bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conjugation with Tris Decreases the Risk of Ketoprofen-Induced Mucosal Damage and Reduces Inflammation-Associated Methane Production in a Rat Model of Colitis
Authors: Ugocsai Melinda , Bársony Anett , Varga Réka Anna , Gajda Ámos , Vida Noémi , Lajkó Norbert , Rónaszéki Benedek , Tóth Gábor , Boros Mihály , Érces Dániel , Varga Gabriella
Published: September 2023

We have designed a new compound from the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) ketoprofen (Ket) and 2-amino-2-(hydroxymethyl)-1,3-propanediol (Tris) precursors, with the aim to reduce the gastrointestinal (GI) side effects of NSAID therapies. We investigated mucosal reactions in a standard rat model of colitis together with methane generation as a possible indicator of pro-inflammatory activation under this condition (approval number: V./148/2013). Whole-body methane production (photoacoustic spectroscopy) and serosal microcirculation (intravital videomicroscopy) were measured, and mucosal damage was assessed (conventional histology; in vivo laser-scanning endomicroscopy). Inflammatory markers were measured from tissue and blood samples. Colitis induced an inflammatory response, morphological colonic damage and increased methane output. Ket treatment lowered inflammatory activation and colonic mucosal injury, but macroscopic gastric bleeding and increased methane output were present. Ket-Tris reduced inflammatory activation, methane emission and colonic mucosal damage, without inducing gastric injury. Conjugation with Tris reduces the GI side effects of Ket and still decreases the inflammatory response in experimental colitis. Methane output correlates with the mucosal inflammatory response and non-invasively demonstrates the effects of anti-inflammatory treatments.
Prevention of Colitis-Associated Cancer via Oral Administration of M13-Loaded Lipid Nanoparticles
Authors: Long Dingpei , Alghoul Zahra , Sung Junsik , Yang Chunhua , Merlin Didier
Published: September 2023

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease, is known to increase the risk of colitis-associated cancer (CAC). CAC has been found to be unresponsive to standard chemotherapy regimens, and the current treatments do not utilize effective small-molecule drugs and colon-targeted delivery systems. Previous studies indicated that the M13–nano-liposome (NL) formulation can effectively target the colon and reshape the gut microbiota in ex vivo cultures, generating altered microbial metabolites that can efficiently prevent chronic UC. In this study, we tested the cancer cell uptake ability of the NL formulation and investigated the potential of the M13–NL formulation to prevent CAC in the azoxymethane (AOM)-exposed IL10−/− mouse model. Our findings demonstrate that oral administration of M13–NL prevents tumor development in AOM-exposed IL10−/− mice, suggesting that M13–NL is a promising oral drug formulation for preventing CAC.
Autologous and Allogeneic Cytotherapies for Large Knee (Osteo)Chondral Defects: Manufacturing Process Benchmarking and Parallel Functional Qualification
Authors: Philippe Virginie , Jeannerat Annick , Peneveyre Cédric , Jaccoud Sandra , Scaletta Corinne , Hirt-Burri Nathalie , Abdel-Sayed Philippe , Raffoul Wassim , Darwiche Salim , Applegate Lee Ann , Martin Robin , Laurent Alexis
Published: September 2023

Cytotherapies are often necessary for the management of symptomatic large knee (osteo)-chondral defects. While autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) has been clinically used for 30 years, allogeneic cells (clinical-grade FE002 primary chondroprogenitors) have been investigated in translational settings (Swiss progenitor cell transplantation program). The aim of this study was to comparatively assess autologous and allogeneic approaches (quality, safety, functional attributes) to cell-based knee chondrotherapies developed for clinical use. Protocol benchmarking from a manufacturing process and control viewpoint enabled us to highlight the respective advantages and risks. Safety data (telomerase and soft agarose colony formation assays, high passage cell senescence) and risk analyses were reported for the allogeneic FE002 cellular active substance in preparation for an autologous to allogeneic clinical protocol transposition. Validation results on autologous bioengineered grafts (autologous chondrocyte-bearing Chondro-Gide scaffolds) confirmed significant chondrogenic induction (COL2 and ACAN upregulation, extracellular matrix synthesis) after 2 weeks of co-culture. Allogeneic grafts (bearing FE002 primary chondroprogenitors) displayed comparable endpoint quality and functionality attributes. Parameters of translational relevance (transport medium, finished product suturability) were validated for the allogeneic protocol. Notably, the process-based benchmarking of both approaches highlighted the key advantages of allogeneic FE002 cell-bearing grafts (reduced cellular variability, enhanced process standardization, rationalized logistical and clinical pathways). Overall, this study built on our robust knowledge and local experience with ACI (long-term safety and efficacy), setting an appropriate standard for further clinical investigations into allogeneic progenitor cell-based orthopedic protocols.
Cutaneous Cell Therapy Manufacturing Timeframe Rationalization: Allogeneic Off-the-Freezer Fibroblasts for Dermo-Epidermal Combined Preparations (DE-FE002-SK2) in Burn Care
Authors: Chen Xi , Laurent Alexis , Liao Zhifeng , Jaccoud Sandra , Abdel-Sayed Philippe , Flahaut Marjorie , Scaletta Corinne , Raffoul Wassim , Applegate Lee Ann , Hirt-Burri Nathalie
Published: September 2023

Autologous cell therapy manufacturing timeframes constitute bottlenecks in clinical management pathways of severe burn patients. While effective temporary wound coverings exist for high-TBSA burns, any means to shorten the time-to-treatment with cytotherapeutic skin grafts could provide substantial therapeutic benefits. This study aimed to establish proofs-of-concept for a novel combinational cytotherapeutic construct (autologous/allogeneic DE-FE002-SK2 full dermo-epidermal graft) designed for significant cutaneous cell therapy manufacturing timeframe rationalization. Process development was based on several decades (four for autologous protocols, three for allogeneic protocols) of in-house clinical experience in cutaneous cytotherapies. Clinical grade dermal progenitor fibroblasts (standardized FE002-SK2 cell source) were used as off-the-freezer substrates in novel autologous/allogeneic dermo-epidermal bilayer sheets. Under vitamin C stimulation, FE002-SK2 primary progenitor fibroblasts rapidly produced robust allogeneic dermal templates, allowing patient keratinocyte attachment in co-culture. Notably, FE002-SK2 primary progenitor fibroblasts significantly outperformed patient fibroblasts for collagen deposition. An ex vivo de-epidermalized dermis model was used to demonstrate the efficient DE-FE002-SK2 construct bio-adhesion properties. Importantly, the presented DE-FE002-SK2 manufacturing process decreased clinical lot production timeframes from 6–8 weeks (standard autologous combined cytotherapies) to 2–3 weeks. Overall, these findings bear the potential to significantly optimize burn patient clinical pathways (for rapid wound closure and enhanced tissue healing quality) by combining extensively clinically proven cutaneous cell-based technologies.
Community Pharmacists’ Knowledge, Attitudes and the Perceived Safety and Effectiveness of Melatonin Supplements: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Tobaiqy Mansour , AlZahrani Faris A. , Hassan Abdulrahman S. , Alirbidi Abdullah H. , Alraddadi Osama A. , AlSadah Omar A. , Yamani Mohammad B. , Alqutub Sulafa T.
Published: September 2023

Melatonin, which is classified as a dietary supplement by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority, is used to manage sleep disorders. In this study, community pharmacists’ knowledge and attitudes about dispensing melatonin supplements and the perceived safety and effectiveness of melatonin were assessed. A cross-sectional survey of community pharmacists in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia was conducted from March–June 2023. Community pharmacists’ knowledge and attitudes towards prescribing and dispensing melatonin supplements, the methods of dispensing melatonin supplements (prescription, over the counter, self-administered), indications, ages of users, dosage forms, and adverse drug reactions related to melatonin use among consumers were surveyed using a questionnaire. Potential participants were approached face to face, a questionnaire was administered to those agreeing to participate in the study, and responses were recorded electronically. The response rate of the 300 community pharmacists who participated in this study was 83.5%. The mean age of participants was 33.6 years, and 89.3% (n = 268) of community pharmacists reported dispensing melatonin supplements. Self-medication and over the counter (n = 213; 71.2%) were the most common dispensing and prescribing patterns (p = 0.001). Awareness rates about melatonin supplement pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics among community pharmacists were 38% and 37%, respectively. Despite its popularity, community pharmacists reported relatively low rates of awareness of melatonin supplement pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Further attention to this issue is needed.
Transmission Characteristics and Spatial Coherence of Partially Coherent Light-Emitting Diode Array in the Ocean
Authors: Miao Zhifang , Han Xiang’e , Wang Qiyu , Lu Fang , Li Qiwei
Published: September 2023

Underwater LED light sources are commonly implemented in array configurations with a wide-angle field of view, primarily catering to high-speed communication within a few meters. To increase transmission distance and mitigate oceanic turbulence effects, this paper focuses on the spatial coherence analysis of narrow-beam partially coherent light-emitting diode (PCLED) arrays, examining their average light intensity distribution, beam width, and spatial coherence during oceanic transmission. Based on the extended Huygens–Fresnel integral, the optical field models and spatial characteristics of the radial PCLED array are derived under oceanic conditions, considering parameters such as water attenuation coefficient, kinetic energy dissipation rate, temperature dissipation rate, temperature-to-salinity ratio, as well as the radial filling factor and the sub-beam spatial coherence length of the light source at different transmission distances. The simulations show that, as the spatial coherence length of the sub-beam decreases from hundreds to a few micrometers, the combining distance of the beam arrays also decreases. This reduction in coherence results in the average light intensity distribution degrading into a Gaussian-like distribution, with a significant five-fold decrease in peak intensity. Furthermore, the width of the array spreads, starting from distances of 7 m and 0 m, respectively. The radial PCLED beam array, with its sub-beam spatial coherence length inside micrometers, possesses inherent characteristics that suppress turbulence effects and has future extensive possibilities in the ocean.
Discriminating States of Polarization
Authors: Gil José J. , Norrman Andreas , Friberg Ari T. , Setälä Tero
Published: September 2023

Equiprobable incoherent mixtures of two totally polarized states of light whose associated three-dimensional Jones vectors are mutually orthogonal are called discriminating states and constitute a peculiar type of state that plays a key role in the characteristic decomposition of a generic state into a totally polarized state, a totally unpolarized state, and a discriminating state. In general, discriminating states are three-dimensional, in the sense that the strengths of the three components of the electric field are nonzero for any Cartesian reference frame considered. In the limiting case that the electric field evolves in a fixed plane, the discriminating state is said to be regular and corresponds to a two-dimensional unpolarized state. The special features of discriminating states cover, e.g., their possible synthesis from infinite pairs of mutually orthogonal states as well as their transverse spin. The nature and properties of discriminating states are comprehensively analyzed based on their associated intrinsic Stokes parameters, which leads to meaningful interpretations in terms of the associated polarization ellipsoids and spin vectors.
Urinary Metabolic Biomarker Profiling for Cancer Diagnosis by Terahertz Spectroscopy: Review and Perspective
Authors: Abina Andreja , Korošec Tjaša , Puc Uroš , Jazbinšek Mojca , Zidanšek Aleksander
Published: September 2023

In the last decade, terahertz (THz) technologies have been introduced to the detection, identification, and quantification of biomolecules in various biological samples. This review focuses on substances that represent important biomarkers in the urine associated with various cancers and their treatments. From a diagnostic point of view, urine liquid biopsy is particularly important because it allows the non-invasive and rapid collection of large volumes of samples. In this review, the THz spectral responses of substances considered metabolic biomarkers in urine and obtained in previous studies are collected. In addition, the findings from the relatively small number of prior studies that have already been carried out on urine samples are summarised. In this context, we also present the different THz methods used for urine analysis. Finally, a brief discussion is given, presenting perspectives for future research in this field, interpreted based on the results of previous studies. This work provides important information on the further application of THz techniques in biomedicine for detecting and monitoring urinary biomarkers for various diseases, including cancer.
Enhancing the Anti-Dispersion Capability of the AO-OFDM System via a Well-Designed Optical Filter at the Transmitter
Authors: Lv Kai , Yu Chao , Liu Hao , Zhang Anxu , Feng Lipeng , Sheng Xia , Liu Yuyang , Wang Xishuo
Published: September 2023

This paper proposes a novel method to improve the anti-dispersion ability of the all-optical orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (AO-OFDM) system. By replacing the Sinc-shaped filter with a Gauss-shaped filter for sub-carrier generation and inserting a cyclic prefix (CP), the impact of dispersion on the system can be significantly mitigated. Formula derivation and numerical analysis of the pulse-shaping function of the AO-OFDM system in the time domain for each cycle indicated that the pulse-shaping function generated by the Gauss-shaped filter was less affected by the dispersion effect than that of the Sinc-shaped filter. Meanwhile, less inter-carrier crosstalk between carriers was also observed. After carrying out system transmission simulations employing these two different filters, we found that the AO-OFDM system based on the Gauss-shaped filter could greatly improve the anti-dispersion ability compared with the system based on a Sinc-shaped filter. When the parameter settings in both schemes were identical, that is, the number of subcarriers was 32 and the power of a single subcarrier was −13 dBm, the bit error rate (BER) of the system based on the proposed Gauss-shaped filter after 60 km SMF transmission was only 1.596 × 10−3, while the BER of the traditional Sinc-shaped filter based system scheme was as high as 8.545 × 10−2.
A Wide-Range High-Resolution X-ray Crystal Spectrometer for Laser–Plasma Diagnostics
Authors: Yi Shengzhen , Du Huiyao , Si Haoxuan , Yu Yue , Xiong Jun , Wang Zhanshan
Published: September 2023

Wide-range crystal spectrometers are important tools for performing X-ray spectroscopic measurements of medium- and high-Z tracer elements in research on laser-driven inertial confinement fusion (ICF) plasmas. In this paper, we propose a wide-range high-resolution crystal spectrometer based on a tandem array of crystals that have the same geometric parameters. We have developed a three-channel crystal spectrometer that covers the range of 8–18 keV by combining Ge<311>, Ge<331>, and Ge<531> crystals. Here, we report the design, optical simulations, and X-ray test experiments of this spectrometer. The calibration results indicate that the spectral resolution E/ΔE is greater than 2800 at 8.048 keV. By selecting appropriate Bragg angles, crystal materials, orientations, or other geometrical parameters, the wide-range crystal spectrometer developed in this paper can also be used to make measurements in other energy ranges.
Femtosecond Laser Fabrication of Silver Microstructures in Nanoporous Glasses
Authors: Rybaltovsky A. O. , Epifanov E. O. , Sigaev V. N. , Fedotov S. S. , Yusupov V. I. , Minaev N. V.
Published: September 2023

This paper presents the results of studying the process of laser formation of microstructures from silver nanoparticles in nanoporous quartz glasses. Glass samples were impregnated with organometallic molecules Ag(hfac)COD in a supercritical carbon dioxide environment. The formation of point and linear microstructures was carried out by high-frequency (70 MHz) femtosecond laser radiation with a wavelength of 525 nm and energy in the pulse up to 1 nJ. It was found that the formation of microstructures occurs due to photo- and thermal decomposition of precursor molecules with the formation of plasmonic silver nanoparticles. It is shown that the developed temperatures can exceed the melting point of glass, which leads to the appearance of microstructures with altered refractive index. A qualitative model explaining the individual stages of cluster formation in the glass volume under point laser impact is presented.
When Identity Shifts to Violence: Historical and Hagiographical Cases from Syriac Churches in Interaction with Confessional and Religious Rivals
Authors: Popa Catalin-Stefan
Published: September 2023

This article briefly epitomizes violence in the broad context of Eastern Christianity, and secondly deals with the transfer of this phenomenon in Syriac Christianity, for the reason that this has not been studied as much as in the Byzantine literature. The purpose is to demonstrate that identity-based violence was a feature included in the narratives of antique and medieval Eastern Christian discourses, this being closely linked to the struggle for ecclesiastical primacy and political power. The paper discusses paradigmatic cases, methodologically studied in their context, of Christian individuals and religious characters that suffered or acted against rivals with violence. The main focus is on historical and historiographical sources illustrating: (1) Syriac communities and factions defending their identity through language or acts of violence; and (2) identity-based confrontations within the Syriac family: factions within the same community, or sister Churches that became rivals (Syriac Orthodox against East Syrians) instrumentalizing the language of violence, mostly actions of destruction, against their opponents. The conclusion indicates that perseverance in defending the truth, as part of their identity, made the communities opt for confrontation, and when one endured violence, one accepted this on the models of the martyrs and the imitatio Christi.
Religion as a Means of Political Conformity and Obedience: From Critias to Thomas Hobbes
Authors: Theodosiadis Michail , Vavouras Elias
Published: September 2023

This study identifies common perceptions between Thomas Hobbes’ approach to religion with that of Critias the sophist. Despite the distance that separates the social environments within which each of these authors lived and wrote, in their political philosophy we can spot a shared set of concerns, whose importance transcend the historical and political contexts in which the authors lived and wrote: in the state of nature, where no organized commonwealth (or civil society) exists, capable of repressing the innate greed of men and women, savagery and conflict reign supreme; life is threatened by violence and extreme aggression. It is only the state of society that guarantees stability and good life. For both thinkers, belief in immaterial spirits protects the state of society; belief in God promotes obedience to civil law and guarantees human co-existence. In Critias’ mind, religion is a necessary means to avert aggression, even when the State’s executive powers are unable to punish offenders, using all necessary tools to prevent hostility and conflict. While civil law is the hallmark of peace and stability, belief in a transcendent entity that influences collective and individual modes of living, is an important addition to the pursuit of social peace. A few centuries later, Hobbes (influenced by the misery of the English Civil War) developed viewpoints that also highlight the role of religion in defending social peace. Nonetheless, in Hobbes’ mind religion could safeguard stability only (A) when ecclesiastical authorities submit to the judgment of an omnipotent Sovereign and (B) when the coercive mechanisms of the State supress religious pluralism, prohibiting different interpretations of the Bible, which Hobbes himself considered one of the main causes of conflict.
Does God Comfort You When You Are Sad? Religious Diversity in Children’s Attribution of Positive and Negative Traits to God
Authors: Lee Hea Jung , Marin Ashley B. , Sun Jiayue , Richert Rebekah A.
Published: September 2023

Children actively construct their understanding of God in early childhood, an understanding that incorporates affect-laden mental representations often referred to as God images. To explore religious variations in children’s association of positive and negative traits to God, 254 preschool-aged children from Protestant Christian, Catholic, Muslim, and Non-Affiliated religious backgrounds indicated their certainty that God scares them, punishes them, is angry at them, loves them, comforts them, and helps people. Parents indicated the frequency of children’s religious engagement. Older children were more certain than younger children that God did not scare or punish them and that God loved and comforted them, and helped people. Moreover, religious affiliation differences emerged in children’s attribution of both positively and negatively valenced properties to God, and more frequent religious engagement was related to a higher degree of certainty that God loves, comforts, helps, and becomes angry, but was unrelated to the certainty that God scares or punishes. The findings suggest that religious engagement plays an important role in children’s developing God image.
Examining the Relevance of Religious Affiliation and Migrant Status in the Protective Capacity of Religion against Adolescent Alcohol Use—Evidence from Tarragona (Spain)
Authors: de Andrés-Sánchez Jorge , Belzunegui-Eraso Angel , Fernández-Aliseda Sonia
Published: September 2023

(1) Background: Adolescence is a critical period for the initiation of the consumption of alcohol, which is the toxic substance most commonly used by young people. Given the serious impact of alcohol on youth, there is an extensive body of literature that examines the facilitators of and barriers to alcohol consumption among adolescents. Among the barriers, several reports highlight that being a member of a religious community is a protective factor against alcohol consumption. (2) Methods: We conducted an analysis of a structured questionnaire completed by 1935 adolescents from Tarragona to assess the protective capacity of belonging to a religious community, differentiating between the various religions practiced in Tarragona. (3) Results: The variables related to family configuration emerged as the main protective factor against alcohol consumption attitudes among adolescents. Those who lived with both parents exhibited greater protection than those living with only one parent. Living with a single parent provided more protection than living with none. Belonging to a religious community did not significantly protect against drunkenness. However, religion appeared to inhibit alcohol use. The protective capacity of religion was evident only when the professed faith was Muslim and/or when the parents were migrants.
Bridging Faiths and Empires: The Assumptionists and the Mission d’Orient (1863–1923)
Authors: Hazir Ediz
Published: September 2023

This paper examines the Assumptionists’ mission, known as the Mission d’Orient, initiated in 1862 with the aim of uniting the Roman Catholic and Orthodox Churches against the backdrop of a changing political and religious landscape. Despite their aspirations, the mission encountered numerous challenges and obstacles, leading to its ultimate failure. The paper focuses on the Ottoman response to Roman Catholic missions, using the Assumptionists as a case study. It explores the factors contributing to the Mission d’Orient’s failure and scrutinizes the Assumptionists’ efforts to foster unity between the two churches. The study argues that the failure can be attributed to complex power dynamics between the Ottoman Empire and Western powers, resulting in a hostile environment for Christian communities. The Ottoman response encompassed state-level actions driven by political conflicts and the direct targeting of Catholic missions as symbols of Western imperialism. The paper examines historical sources and primary documents to shed light on the challenges faced by the Assumptionists and their impact on interfaith relations and diplomacy during this significant chapter in Christian missions’ history.
Spirituality of Artistic Service
Authors: Dodlek Ivan
Published: September 2023

In the document Letter of his Holiness Pope John Paul II to Artists, John Paul II pointed out that artists, with their creation, perform a professional social service for the benefit of the common good through the “spirituality of artistic service”, which, through the perspective of “educational art,” contributes to the life and revival of the individual and society. Since that document does not specify what a model of such spirituality would consist of, the goal of this paper is to offer a proposal for the theoretical elaboration of its potential framework. The topic is discussed from the perspective of Christian theological aesthetics. The starting point for the development of the spirituality of the artistic service model is Christian artistic creation. The indicated theoretical framework of the spirituality of artistic service is based on three dimensions of Christian artistic creation. The first represents Christian artistic creation that points to the depths of the mystery of the sacred through Christian symbols. The second dimension of Christian artistic creation relies on the contemporary form of religious imagery in changed cultural circumstances in order to adequately present a transcendent perspective of the meaning of existence. The third dimension of Christian artistic creation awakens admiration in the recipients through artistic contemplation, thus enabling a spiritual transformation and serving as the bearer of eschatological hope. In the end, it is shown that this model of spirituality in artistic service can serve as a good theoretical framework for the implementation of three new dimensions of Christian art suitable for the contemporary cultural environment: mystagogic, existential, and contemplative.
Academic Coverage of Social Stressors Experienced by Disabled People: A Scoping Review
Authors: Wolbring Gregor , Escobedo Maria
Published: September 2023

Social stress can be caused by many factors. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) highlights many social stressors disabled people experience in their daily lives. How social stressors experienced by disabled people are discussed in the academic literature and what data are generated influence social-stressor related policies, education, and research. Therefore, the aim of our study was to better understand the academic coverage of social stressors experienced by disabled people. We performed a scoping review study of academic abstracts employing SCOPUS, the 70 databases of EBSCO-HOST and Web of Science, and a directed qualitative content analysis to achieve our aim. Using many different search strategies, we found few to no abstracts covering social stressors experienced by disabled people. Of the 1809 abstracts obtained using various stress-related phrases and disability terms, we found a bias towards covering disabled people as stressors for others. Seventeen abstracts mentioned social stressors experienced by disabled people. Fourteen abstracts flagged “disability” as the stressor. No abstract contained stress phrases specific to social stressors disabled people experience, such as “disablism stress*” or “ableism stress*”. Of the abstracts containing equity, diversity, and inclusion phrases and policy frameworks, only one was relevant, and none of the abstracts covering emergency and disaster discussions, stress-identifying technologies, or science and technology governance were relevant. Anxiety is one consequence of social stressors. We found no abstract that contained anxiety phrases that are specific to social stressors disabled people experience, such as “ableism anxiety”, “disablism anxiety” or “disability anxiety”. Within the 1809 abstract, only one stated that a social stressor is a cause of anxiety. Finally, of the abstracts that contained anxiety phrases linked to a changing natural environment, such as “climate anxiety”, none were relevant. Our study found many gaps in the academic literature that should be fixed and with that highlights many opportunities.
Development of a Cutting Technique Modification Training Program and Evaluation of its Effects on Movement Quality and Cutting Performance in Male Adolescent American Football Players
Authors: Thieschäfer Lutz , Klütz Julius , Weig Julian , Dos’Santos Thomas , Büsch Dirk
Published: September 2023

This study developed a cutting technique modification training program and investigated its effects on cutting performance and movement quality in adolescent American football players. For six weeks, an intervention group (IG) of 11 players participated in 25 min cutting technique modification training sessions integrated into team training twice a week, while a control group (CG) of 11 players continued their usual team training. Movement quality was assessed by evaluating 2D high-speed videos, obtained during preplanned 45° and 90° cutting tests, using the Cutting Movement Assessment Score (CMAS) qualitative screening tool. Cutting performance was assessed based on change of direction deficit (CODD). Significant interaction effects of time × group were found for CMAS in 45° and 90° cuttings (p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.76, p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.64, respectively), with large improvements in the IG (p < 0.001, g = −2.16, p < 0.001, g = −1.78, respectively) and deteriorations in the CG for 45° cuttings (p = 0.002, g = 1.15). However, no statistically significant differences in CODD were observed pre-to-post intervention. The cutting technique modification training was effective at improving movement quality without impairing cutting performance, and it can be used by practitioners working with adolescent athletes.
Assessment of Herbaceous Plant Composition, Diversity, and Indicator Species in the Juniperus drupacea Forest Openings of the Mountain Parnonas in Greece
Authors: Solomou Alexandra D. , Korakaki Evangelia , Avramidou Evangelia V. , Boutsios Stefanos , Oikonomidis Spyridon , Daskalakou Evangelia
Published: September 2023

A significant challenge in community ecology is the establishment of ecological baselines, which permit the evaluation of the variations in ecological dynamics at different temporal and spatial scales. To our best knowledge, few studies have been conducted in the forest openings of Mt. Parnon to establish a baseline for future monitoring. Hence, a floristic study of the herbaceous plant species composition, diversity, cover, and biomass was conducted in the forest openings of the Mt. Parnon-Natura 2000 Site in Greece to develop an ecological baseline that could be utilized in decision making for conservation and the sustainable use of forest biodiversity and ecosystem services in the forest ecosystem of Mt. Parnon. In the spring season, a thorough floristic survey was performed on Mt. Parnon for two consecutive years, 2021 and 2022. Herbaceous plant composition, diversity, cover, biomass, and plant indicator species (indicator value analysis) in the forest openings of Mt. Parnon were assessed. In the studied area, 63 plant species belonging to 58 genera from 20 families were recorded. The most numerous families were Asteraceae and Poaceae, followed by Fabaceae. Variable plant diversity, herbaceous plant cover, and produced biomass were recorded in different sites. It is noteworthy that some plant species could be regarded as indicators of the sites in the study area [Geranium molle L., Cerastium candidissimum Correns, Vicia villosa Roth, Euphorbia myrsinites L., Odontarrhena muralis (Waldst. & Kit.) Endl., Medicago lupulina L., Lotus corniculatus L., Crepis fraasii Sch. Bip., Bellis sylvestris Cirillo, and Trifolium stellatum L.], and information about these indicators, including Ellenberg type indicator values, is also provided. This study contributes to the understanding of the relevant ecological topics and provides key elements that could be utilized in decision making for the conservation and sustainable use of forest biodiversity and ecosystem services on Mt. Parnon.
Improving the Livelihood Resilience of Poverty-Stricken Population under Rural Revitalization: A Case Study of Chongqing M Reservoir Area
Authors: He Jiajun , Fan Xin , Chen Lin , Huang Zirui , Zhao Yiming , Zhang Chenzhi
Published: September 2023

With the victory in poverty alleviation, China’s “Three Rural Issues” effort is shifting its attention to the execution of the rural revitalization strategy. To consolidate the poverty eradication gains and boost the resilience of the livelihoods of people who have been lifted out of poverty, we must implement several different strategies. Improving the livelihood resilience of the poverty-stricken population is the main objective of the long-term mechanism of promoting rural revitalization. Based on the theory of sustainable livelihoods, this paper creates an analysis framework for livelihood resilience of the poverty-stricken population. On this basis, we use principal component regression to measure the livelihood resilience of poverty-stricken population in Chongqing M Reservoir Area. We use the seemingly unrelated regression model to identify important variables influencing the stability of farm households emerging from poverty and propose policy to optimize resilience of the livelihoods of people lifted out of poverty. The results show that the population living in poverty around the Chongqing M Reservoir has a steadily rising livelihood resilience index. Among them, policy support has a significant positive effect on the livelihood resilience of poverty-stricken population. Similarly, regional endowments have a significant positive effect on the livelihood resilience of poverty-stricken population. However, livelihood risk has a significant negative effect on the livelihood resilience of poverty-stricken population. These findings provide a basis for the subsequent enhancement of livelihood resilience.
Activated Carbon Electrodes for Bioenergy Production in Microbial Fuel Cells Using Synthetic Wastewater as Substrate
Authors: Agüero-Quiñones Rickelmi , Ávila-Sánchez Zairi , Rojas-Flores Segundo , Cabanillas-Chirinos Luis , De La Cruz-Noriega Magaly , Nazario-Naveda Renny , Rojas-Villacorta Walter
Published: September 2023

The growing global energy demand drives the need to develop new clean energy technologies. In this context, microbial fuel cells (MFC) are one of the emerging technologies with great potential for eco-friendly energy generation; however, the correct choice of electrode material is a significant limitation in the optimal configuration of MFCs. Therefore, this research evaluated the efficiency of activated carbon (AC) anode electrodes for bioenergy production in MFC using synthetic wastewater as a substrate. Peak values of voltage (1120 ± 0.050 mV), current (4.64 ± 0.040 mA), power density (208.14 ± 17.15 mW/cm2), and current density (5.03 A/cm2) were generated, and the Rint obtained was 214.52 ± 5.22 Ω. The substrate was operated at pH values from 5.31 to 7.66, maximum ORP values (858 mV) were reached, and turbidity was reduced to 25.11 NTU. The SEM-EDS (scanning electron microscopy–energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy) analyses allowed us to observe the morphology and composition of the AC electrodes, revealing a predominance of O, C, Si, Al, Fe, K, and Ca. It is concluded that the AC electrodes have the potential to produce bioenergy at a laboratory by means of MFC.
Seismic and Tsunami Risk Analysis for Installing Resilient Power Systems Based on Isolated Microgrids on Buildings: The Case of Puerto Ayora in Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos
Authors: Haro-Baez Ana Gabriela , Chavez Diego , Camino Cristina , Arcos-Aviles Diego
Published: September 2023

Due to their geographical condition and worldwide environmental protection policies, the Galapagos Islands must opt for implementing clean energy infrastructure considering natural hazard effects that can directly affect the resilience of community residents. Santa Cruz Island is part of this archipelago, with rich biodiversity in flora and unique fauna. This study proposes identifying earthquake and tsunami risk assessment components on the island, such as the infrastructure vulnerability of Puerto Ayora, the central city of Santa Cruz Island. The FEMA P-154 and FEMA P-646 methodologies are used to classify buildings for technically installing microgrids based on photovoltaic generation systems. For this purpose, maps and data from state entities are used in combination with catalogs from development and land use planning, Software for Geoprocesses and virtual tours, and cadastral information provided by the Decentralized Autonomous Government (GAD) of Santa Cruz to develop techniques that offer a risk index to identify buildings that could sustain seismic and tsunamic loads. The study exposes alarming results that would prevent the installation of photovoltaic generation systems on the buildings’ roofs. Consequently, a more detailed field study is recommended to contrast the reported analysis to implement mitigation strategies accordingly. Finally, geoprocesseced maps are presented, in addition to general installing recommendations for the photovoltaic system’s infrastructure.
Preparation and Characterization of Microcrystalline Cellulose/Polylactic Acid Biocomposite Films and Its Application in Lanzhou Lily (Lilium davidii var. unicolor) Bulbs Preservation
Authors: Ren Haiwei , Li Siqi , Gao Ming , Xing Xueye , Tian Yaqin , Ling Zhe , Yang Weixia , Pan Lichao , Fan Wenguang , Zheng Yi
Published: September 2023

Green biodegradable bio-based films have gained interest in replacing petroleum-derived plastic packaging materials as a new preservation strategy for fruits and vegetables to alleviate environmental pressures. In this study, we aimed to develop novel biodegradable composite films based on microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) reinforced polylactic acid (PLA). Our results demonstrated that the addition of 3% MCC to PLA could improve its tensile strength. Scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed that MCC dispersed well in PLA at lower content while agglomerated at higher content. It was discovered that all four types of MCC/PLA biocomposite films could retard the color change of Lanzhou lily bulbs, accompanied by maintaining favorable total soluble solid, total sugar, total polyphenols, and flavonoid content, inhibiting the activities of phenylalanine ammonia-lyase and the content of malondialdehyde during storage. Moreover, the preservation effect of MCC/PLA biocomposite films on Lanzhou lily bulbs was evaluated using a membership function, and the SSS MCC/PLA biocomposite film demonstrated a favorable fresh-keeping effect. In conclusion, four types of MCC from different biomass materials added to PLA-based products can be beneficial in improving the attractive properties of biocomposite films. These films are expected to replace petroleum-derived plastics as a new packaging material for preserving Lanzhou lily bulbs.
Aspects of New and Old Urban Parks Most Valued by Residents on Social Media: A Case Study in Hefei
Authors: Ma Dongfang , Zhang Shaojie , Xiao Tieqiao , Shui Taotao
Published: September 2023

The rapid development of new first-tier cities in China has led to potentially significant differences in residents’ environmental perceptions toward parks in new and old urban areas. However, there is currently a lack of relevant comparative research. Therefore, this study used the new first-tier city of Hefei as an example and selected the two most popular urban parks in the new and old downtown areas—Swan Lake Park and Xiaoyaojin Park. This study aimed to find out which aspects of the new and old city parks were the most valued by the residents by analysing their online comments on social media platforms. Based on the social media comments, quantitative and qualitative analyses were conducted to study residents’ perceptions and preferences and analyse residents’ activities and satisfaction. The research found the following: (1) There was consistency in the type of content in the downtown parks as perceived by the residents of the new and old urban areas. (2) For the old downtown Xiaoyaojin Park, the residents were more interested in the experience in terms of the recreation facilities and services but were less satisfied with the visitor capacity of the playground and the ticket price. For the new downtown Swan Lake Park, the residents were more interested in the experience in terms of the exercise facilities and venues and were worried about the safety of the venues. (3) The perceived environmental preferences of the residents in the old urban areas were mainly related to childhood activity venues, and the perceived environmental preferences of the residents in the new urban areas were mainly related to novelty activities. Based on the results, targeted suggestions were proposed for the development of characteristic resources, facility management and maintenance, and the renewal and renovation of recreational activities. Since social media analysis plays an important role in the construction of urban parks, the findings can help us to better understand residents’ lives, ensure that parks are designed for the happiness of the people, and develop more sustainable pathways for the design and management of urban areas.
Ecological Restoration of Coalmine-Degraded Lands: Influence of Plant Species and Revegetation on Soil Development
Authors: Chen Jinhui , Jiskani Izhar Mithal , Li Guoqing
Published: September 2023

This study investigated soil development resulting from revegetation in a coal mining area in northern Henan, China. The effectiveness of six distinct revegetation methods for reclaiming mine-degraded lands was assessed. These methods employed various species such as Ulmus pumila, Amorpha fruticosa, Robinia pseudoacacia, Jerusalem artichoke, and Sea buckthorn. Over a three-year reclamation period, soil development was analyzed to identify the most suitable plant species. Soil samples were collected from different depths, encompassing the topsoil (0–20 cm) and subsoil (20–40 cm) for each method and a control group. Principal component analysis was employed to evaluate the impacts of the revegetation methods on soil development. The findings show that revegetation significantly impacted soil properties, lowering pH, electric conductivity, and density while increasing moisture, organic carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The effects were more pronounced in the topsoil. Among the six revegetation methods, a mixed plantation of Sea buckthorn and Amorpha fruticosa was the most effective, delivering the highest organic carbon in the topsoil at 3.23% and the subsoil at 1.32%. This study offers insights into successful mine reclamation and the advancement of green and climate-smart mining practices.
Design and Development of Optimal and Deep-Learning-Based Demand Response Technologies for Residential Hybrid Renewable Energy Management System
Authors: Krishnamoorthy Murugaperumal , Raj P. Ajay-D-Vimal , Subramaniam N. P. , Sudhakaran M. , Ramasamy Arulselvi
Published: September 2023

The principal goal of this study is to conduct a techno-economic analysis of hybrid energy generation designs for residential-form houses in urban areas. Various possibilities for a form house electrification system are created and simulated in order to determine an optimum ideal configuration for meeting residential load demand with an increase in energy capacity and minimal investment. Using NREL’s HOMER optimization tool, a case-study-based virtual HRE model is developed. Pre-assessment data and relevant operation constraints are used to build the system’s objective functions. The instantaneous energy balance algorithm technique is used to solve the multi-objective function. The overall optimization procedure is sandwiched between two supporting advanced approaches, pre- and post-operations. The development of an optimal techno-economic hybrid energy generation system for the smooth fulfillment of urban load demand is aided by novel deep belief network (NDBN)-based pre-stage load demand predictions and an analysis of the necessary demand side management (DSM)practicing code for utility efficiency improvements in post-stage simulations.
Utilization of Brewer’s Spent Grains and Agricultural Residues in Pig Feed Formation
Authors: Stahn Tanja , Storandt Regina , Grebenteuch Sandra , Rohn Sascha , May Detlef , Dolsdorf Claudia , Pleissner Daniel
Published: September 2023

In this study, brewer’s spent grains (BSG)-raw matrix was technologically and functionally improved by adding natural active ingredient carriers (crushed wheat, rapeseed, and pumpkin seed press cake) and using planetary roller extrusion and used as feed additive for pigs. Feeding trials were run for 189 days using 60 pigs with an age of 28 days. Pigs were grouped in a control group (fed with organic basic feed) and two experimental groups (fed with BSG 1 or BSG 2 in addition to organic basic feed). The 20 animals per group gained similar weight in the control group (306 g day−1 and 725 g day−1) and in the group fed with BSG 1 (282 g day−1 and 627 g day−1) or BSG 2 (250 g day−1 598 g day−1) in addition during rearing and fattening phases, respectively. Carcass evaluation revealed that meat quality did not differ between control and experimental groups. The BSG-based feed formulations tested seem to not result in negative effects on weight gain nor on meat quality. Animals were generally of good health and marketable quality, and thus the outcomes of this study are expected to contribute to an improved utilization strategy of brewer’s spent grains from breweries.
Origins of the Sustainability Concept and Its Application to the Construction Sector in the EU
Authors: Diaz Gonçalves Teresa , Saporiti Machado José
Published: September 2023

Sustainability aims to integrate environmental and social considerations into decision-making, alongside purely economic factors, in a balanced manner. Here, a concise critical review of policy instruments concerning the definition and implementation of this concept is presented. The sources were selected as the most relevant to capturing the origins and evolution of the idea of sustainability from the 1960s to the present day. The analysis narrows down to the construction sector within the European Union (EU), of which the perspective guides the work. As it emerges, the historical path led to the materialization of the sustainability concept into the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Despite interpretative discussions around the concept, these SDGs became the relevant sustainability model for sectors like construction. Its application to practice, however, faces three major challenges that must be acknowledged and addressed to allow defining robust and genuinely sustainable decision-making strategies: greenwashing, commodification, and “cherry picking”.