bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Synthetic Model of the Mucosa for Oral Penetration Studies
Authors: Alonso Cristina , Martí Meritxell , Ramos Anderson , Calpena Ana Cristina , Clares-Naveros Beatriz , Coderch Luisa
Published: December 2023

The main objective of this study is the evaluation of the use of a synthetic membrane, Nuclepore, as a model for permeation studies through sublingual mucosa. The permeability of two types of membranes, porcine sublingual oral mucosa and a synthetic Nuclepore membrane, to water was compared. Moreover, the water permeability of membranes modified with waterproofing formulations was measured to study their ability to protect against the penetration of viruses, toxins, etc. A relatively high correlation (R2 0.88) was obtained between the transmucosal water loss (TMWL) values of the artificial membrane and the mucosa. These results support the possible use of this synthetic membrane in the screening of the water permeability of formulations. In addition, studies of the permeation of different actives, drugs, and biocides through the two membranes were carried out, and these results were compared with their skin permeation data. The synthetic membrane does not seem to discern between compounds in terms of permeability. However, the permeation of caffeine through intact or modified membranes incorporating waterproofing formulations presents similar permeation profiles through the synthetic membrane and mucosa. The results from these assays should lend support to the use of this synthetic membrane when screening formulations to be applied in oral penetration studies.
Breath Analysis for Lung Cancer Early Detection—A Clinical Study
Authors: Jia Zhunan , Thavasi Velmurugan , Venkatesan Thirumalai , Lee Pyng
Published: December 2023

This clinical study presents a comprehensive investigation into the utility of breath analysis as a non-invasive method for the early detection of lung cancer. The study enrolled 14 lung cancer patients, 14 non-lung cancer controls with diverse medical conditions, and 3 tuberculosis (TB) patients for biomarker discovery. Matching criteria including age, gender, smoking history, and comorbidities were strictly followed to ensure reliable comparisons. A systematic breath sampling protocol utilizing a BIO-VOC sampler was employed, followed by VOC analysis using Thermal Desorption–Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (TD-GC/MS). The resulting VOC profiles were subjected to stringent statistical analysis, including Orthogonal Projections to Latent Structures—Discriminant Analysis (OPLS-DA), Kruskal–Wallis test, and Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis. Notably, 13 VOCs exhibited statistically significant differences between lung cancer patients and controls. The combination of eight VOCs (hexanal, heptanal, octanal, benzaldehyde, undecane, phenylacetaldehyde, decanal, and benzoic acid) demonstrated substantial discriminatory power with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.85, a sensitivity of 82%, and a specificity of 76% in the discovery set. Validation in an independent cohort yielded an AUC of 0.78, a sensitivity of 78%, and a specificity of 64%. Further analysis revealed that elevated aldehyde levels in lung cancer patients’ breath could be attributed to overactivated Alcohol Dehydrogenase (ADH) pathways in cancerous tissues. Addressing methodological challenges, this study employed a matching of physiological and pathological confounders, controlled room air samples, and standardized breath sampling techniques. Despite the limitations, this study’s findings emphasize the potential of breath analysis as a diagnostic tool for lung cancer and suggest its utility in differentiating tuberculosis from lung cancer. However, further research and validation are warranted for the translation of these findings into clinical practice.
Coexisting Firing Patterns in an Improved Memristive Hindmarsh–Rose Neuron Model with Multi-Frequency Alternating Current Injection
Authors: Wang Mengjiao , Ding Jie , Deng Bingqing , He Shaobo , Iu Herbert Ho-Ching
Published: December 2023

With the development of memristor theory, the application of memristor in the field of the nervous system has achieved remarkable results and has bright development prospects. Flux-controlled memristor can be used to describe the magnetic induction effect of the neuron. Based on the Hindmarsh–Rose (HR) neuron model, a new HR neuron model is proposed by introducing a flux-controlled memristor and a multi-frequency excitation with high–low frequency current superimposed. Various firing patterns under single and multiple stimuli are investigated. The model can exhibit different coexisting firing patterns. In addition, when the memristor coupling strength changes, the multiple stability of the model is eliminated, which is a rare phenomenon. Moreover, an analog circuit is built to verify the numerical simulation results.
Population Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Analysis for Maximizing the Effectiveness of Ceftobiprole in the Treatment of Severe Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcal Infections
Authors: Cojutti Pier Giorgio , Giuliano Simone , Pascale Renato , Angelini Jacopo , Tascini Carlo , Viale Pierluigi , Pea Federico
Published: December 2023

Ceftobiprole is a fifth-generation cephalosporin used for different Gram-positive bacterial infections. A population pharmacokinetic analysis was conducted in real-life clinical patients to assess the adequacy of current dosages. Population pharmacokinetics was conducted using non-linear mixed effect modeling. Monte Carlo simulations were performed to determine the probability of target attainment (PTA) of free trough or steady-state concentration over MIC (fCtrough/MIC or fCss/MIC) ≥ 1 or ≥4 associated with both the standard and intensified dosing regimens adjusted for renal function. Cumulative fraction of response (CFR) against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Staphylococcus epidermidis (MRSE) were also calculated. A total of 132 patients with 503 concentrations were included. Most of them (107/132, 81.1%) had hospital- or community-acquired pneumonia, endocarditis, and bacteremia. A three-compartment model adequately fitted ceftobiprole concentration-time data. Estimated glomerular filtration rate significantly affected drug clearance. Monte Carlo simulations showed that the optimal target of fCtrough/MIC or fCss/MIC ≥ 4 is achieved only with the use of the standard dosages administered by continuous infusion (CI) against MRSA infections in patients with preserved renal function. Intensified dosages administered by CI are needed in patients with impaired renal function and/or augmented renal clearance against MRSA and in patients with preserved renal functions against MRSE.
Identification of Fungicide Combinations for Overcoming Plasmopara viticola and Botrytis cinerea Fungicide Resistance
Authors: Zhang Junrui , Gelain Jhulia , Schnabel Guido , Mallawarachchi Samavath , Wang Haoqi , Mulgaonkar Nirmitee , Karthikeyan Raghupathy , Fernando Sandun
Published: December 2023

Fungal diseases, including downy mildew (caused by Plasmopara viticola) and gray mold (caused by Botrytis cinerea), significantly impact the marketable yield of grapes produced worldwide. Cytochrome b of the mitochondrial respiratory chain of these two fungi is a key target for Quinone outside inhibitor (QoI)-based fungicide development. Since the mode of action (MOA) of QoI fungicides is restricted to a single site, the extensive usage of these fungicides has resulted in fungicide resistance. The use of fungicide combinations with multiple targets is an effective way to counter and slow down the development of fungicide resistance. Due to the high cost of in planta trials, in silico techniques can be used for the rapid screening of potential fungicides. In this study, a combination of in silico simulations that include Schrödinger Glide docking, molecular dynamics, and Molecular Mechanism-Generalized Born Surface Area calculation were used to screen the most potent QoI and non-QoI-based fungicide combinations to wild-type, G143A-mutated, F129L-mutated, and double-mutated versions that had both G143A and F129L mutations of fungal cytochrome b. In silico docking studies indicated that mandestrobin, famoxadone, captan, and thiram have a high affinity toward WT cytochrome b of Botrytis cinerea. Although the QoIs mandestrobin and famoxadone were effective for WT based on in vitro results, they were not broadly effective against G143A-mutated isolates. Famoxadone was only effective against one isolate with G143A-mutated cytochrome b. The non-QoI fungicides thiram and captan were effective against both WT and isolates with G143A-mutated cytochrome b. Follow-up in silico docking and molecular dynamics studies suggested that fungicide combinations consisting of famoxadone, mandestrobin, fenamidone, and thiram should be considered in field testing targeting Plasmopara viticola and Botrytis cinerea fungicide resistance.
Characterization of Three New Outer Membrane Adhesion Proteins in Fusobacterium necrophorum
Authors: Bista Prabha K. , Pillai Deepti , Narayanan Sanjeev K.
Published: December 2023

Fusobacterium necrophorum, an anaerobic Gram-negative pathogen, causes necrotic cattle infections, impacting livestock health and the US feedlot industry. Antibiotic administration is the mainstay for treating F. necrophorum infections, although resistance hampers their effectiveness. Vaccination, especially targeting outer membrane proteins (OMPs) due to their antigenic properties and host specificity, offers an alternative to antibiotics. This study identified high-binding-affinity adhesion proteins from F. necrophorum using binding and pull-down assays with bovine adrenal gland endothelial cells (EJG). Four OMP candidates (17.5 kDa/OmpH, 22.7 kDa/OmpA, 66.3 kDa/cell surface protein (CSP), and a previously characterized 43 kDa OMP) were expressed as recombinant proteins and purified. Rabbit polyclonal antibodies to recombinant OMPs were generated, and their ability to inhibit bacterial binding in vitro was assessed. The results show that treatment with individual polyclonal antibodies against 43 kDa significantly inhibited bacterial adhesion, while other antibodies were less potent. However, combinations of two or more antibodies showed a more prominent inhibitory effect on host-cell adhesion. Thus, our findings suggest that the identified OMPs are involved in fusobacterial attachment to host cells and may have the potential to be leveraged in combination for vaccine development. Future in vivo studies are needed to validate their roles and test the feasibility of an OMP-based subunit vaccine against fusobacterial infections.
Role of Probiotics in Preventing Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae Colonization in the Intensive Care Unit: Risk Factors and Microbiome Analysis Study
Authors: Lee Jung-Hwan , Shin Jongbeom , Park Soo-Hyun , Cha Boram , Hong Ji-Taek , Lee Don-Haeng , Kwon Kye Sook
Published: December 2023

Older patients with multiple comorbidities often necessitate prolonged hospital stays and antibiotic treatment in the intensive care unit (ICU), leading to a rise in multidrug-resistant organisms like carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE). This study examined risk factors for carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae colonization in the ICU and assessed probiotics’ preventive role. In this single-center, retrospective study, 9099 ICU patients were tested for stool CRE culture from March 2017 to April 2022. We excluded 136 patients with CRE colonization within one week post-admission and 26 who received probiotics before CRE colonization. Ultimately, 8937 CRE-negative patients were selected. Logistic analysis identified CRE colonization risk factors and evaluated probiotics’ influence, including Saccharomyces boulardii or Lactobacillus rhamnosus, used by 474 patients (5.3%) in the ICU. Compared with data on initial admission, 157 patients (1.7%) had newly discovered CRE colonization before discharge. In a multivariate analysis, coronavirus disease 2019, the ICU, tube feeding, antibiotics such as aminoglycoside, extended-spectrum penicillin, stool vancomycin-resistance enterococci colonization, and chronic kidney disease were significantly associated with de novo CRE infection. However, probiotic use was negatively correlated with CRE infection. Managing risk factors and administering probiotics in the ICU may help prevent CRE colonization; large randomized prospective studies are needed.
Draft Genome of Nocardia canadensis sp. nov. Isolated from Petroleum-Hydrocarbon-Contaminated Soil
Authors: Alotaibi Fahad , Lee Soon-Jae , Lahrach Zakaria , St-Arnaud Marc , Hijri Mohamed
Published: December 2023

The bacterial strain WB46 was isolated from the rhizosphere of willow plants (Salix purpurea L.) growing in soil contaminated with petroleum hydrocarbons. The strain was subjected to whole-genome shotgun sequencing using Illumina HiSeq. Its draft genome is 7.15 Mb, with a 69.55% GC content, containing 6387 protein-coding genes and 51 tRNA and 15 rRNA sequences. The quality and reliability of the genome were assessed using CheckM, attaining an estimated genome completeness of 98.75% and an estimated contamination of 1.68%. These results indicate a high-quality genome (>95%) and low contamination (<5%). Many of these genes are responsible for petroleum hydrocarbon degradation, such as alkane 1-monooxygenase (alkB) and naphthalene dioxygenase (ndo). 16S rRNA gene analysis, including in silico DNA–DNA hybridization (DDH) and average nucleotide identity (ANI), showed that strain WB46 belongs to the genus Nocardia, and the most closely related species is Nocardia asteroides. The strain WB46 showed a distance of 63.4% and sequence identity of 88.63%, respectively. These values fall below the threshold levels of 70% and 95%, respectively, suggesting that the strain WB46 is a new species. We propose the name of Nocardia canadensis sp. nov. for this new species. Interestingly, the sequence divergence of the 16S rRNA gene showed that the divergence only occurred in the V2 region. Therefore, the conventional V3–V4, V5–V7, or V8–V9 targeting metabarcoding, among others, would not be able to assess the diversity related to this new species.
In Vitro Experimental Observations on Fungal Colonization, Metalophagus Behavior, Tunneling, Bioleaching and Bioweathering of Multiple Mineral Substrates
Authors: Kolo Kamal , Préat Alain
Published: December 2023

This study reports on experimental observations during fungi–mineral substrate interactions. Selected mineral substrates of biotite, muscovite, bauxite, chromite, galena, malachite, manganite, and plagioclase were exposed in vitro to free fungal growth under open conditions. The interaction produced strong biochemical and biomechanical alterations to the mineral substrates. Specifically, reported here is a three-dimensional thigmotropic colonization pattern of the mineral surfaces that suggested a possible pattern of fungal metalophagus behavior. Authigenic secondary mineral biomineralization occurred: Ca- and Mg-Oxalates such as weddellite: CaC2O4·2H2O, whewellite: CaC2O4·H2O, and glushinskite: MgC2O4·2H2O; struvite: (NH4) MgPO4·6H2O; gibbsite: Al(OH)3; and gypsum: CaSO4·2H2O. The bioleached elements included Fe, Pb, S, Cu, and Al, which formed single crystals or aggregates, amorphous layers, amorphous aggregates, and linear forms influenced by the fungal filaments. The fungi bioleached Fe and Al from bauxite and Mn from manganite and deposited the metals as separate mineral species. Gypsum was deposited during the interaction with the manganite substrate, indicating a source of Ca and S either within manganite impurities or within the fungal growth environment. Other biochemical and biomechanical features such as tunneling, strong pitting, exfoliation, dissolution, perforations, and fragmentation of the mineral surfaces were also produced. The results of this study, besides emphasizing the role of fungi in bioweathering and mineral alteration, also show that, to produce these alterations, fungi employ a 3D fungal colonization pattern of mineral surfaces guided by thigmotropic and possible metalophagus behavior.
Preparation and Biotoxicity of Coal-Based Carbon Dot Nanomaterials
Authors: Tian Zhenzhou , Li Jinyao , Miao Yanming , Lv Jinzhi
Published: December 2023

Coal-based Carbon Dots (C-CDs) have gradually become a research focus due to the abundant raw materials and low preparation cost. Still, before coal-based carbon dots are widely used, a systematic biological toxicity study is the basis for the safe utilization of C-CDs. However, the level of toxicity and the mechanism of toxicity of C-CDs for organisms are still unclear. To ensure the safe utilization of C-CDs, the present study investigated C-CD nanomaterials as stressors to probe their biotoxic effects on plant, bacterial, and animal cells as well as the photocatalytic oxidative properties of C-CDs. The results showed that low concentrations of C-CDs could promote various growth indicators of wheat, and high concentrations of C-CDs had significant inhibitory effects on wheat growth; C-CDs had significant toxic effects on (S. aureus) at specific concentrations and were light-related; meanwhile, at concentrations of 1–5000 μg/mL, C-CDs were almost not toxic to HeLa cells; however, when irradiated at 365 nm, even low concentrations of C-CDs were toxic to cells by the mechanism that C-CDs could generate singlet oxygen (1O2) by photocatalytic oxidation under 365 nm excitation light, resulting in enhanced toxicity of C-CDs to cells.
Body Mass Index (BMI) Is the Strongest Predictor of Systemic Hypertension and Cardiac Mass in a Cohort of Children
Authors: Fabi Marianna , Meli Matteo , Leardini Davide , Andreozzi Laura , Maltoni Giulio , Bitelli Maria , Pierantoni Luca , Zarbo Chiara , Dondi Arianna , Bertulli Cristina , Bernardini Luca , Pession Andrea , Lanari Marcello
Published: December 2023

Background: Hypertension (HTN) is a well-established cardiovascular (CV) risk factor in adults. The presence of HTN in children appears to predict its persistence into adulthood. Early diagnosis of HTN is crucial to reduce CV morbidity before the onset of organ damage. Aim: The aim of this study is to investigate cardiac damage in HTN, its risk factors (RFs), and evolution. Methods: We conducted a prospective/retrospective study involving children referred to the Childhood Hypertension Outpatient Clinic. This study included clinical and echocardiographic assessments of cardiac morphology and function at three time points: enrollment (T0) and follow-up (T1 and T2). Results: Ninety-two patients (mean age 11.4 ± 3 years) were enrolled. Cardiac eccentric and concentric hypertrophy were present in 17.9% and 9%, respectively, with remodeling in 10.5%. Overweight/obese subjects exhibited significantly higher systolic blood pressure (SBP), frequency of HTN, and body mass index (BMI) at T0 compared with patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). SBP and BMI persisted more during follow-up. Normal-weight vs. overweight/obese patients were significantly more likely to have normal geometry. Positive correlations were found between BMI and left ventricular (LV) mass at T0, BMI and SBP at T0 and T1. Gender, BMI, SBP, and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) significantly predicted LV mass index (LVMI), but only BMI added significance to the prediction. During follow-up, the variation of BMI positively correlated with the variation of SBP, but not with LVMI. Conclusions: In our cohort, body weight is strongly associated with HTN and cardiac mass. Importantly, the variation in body weight has a more significant impact on the consensual variation of cardiac mass than blood pressure (BP) values. A strict intervention on weight control through diet and a healthy lifestyle from early ages might reduce the burden of CV morbidity in later years.
A Comprehensive Review of the Effects of Glycemic Carbohydrates on the Neurocognitive Functions Based on Gut Microenvironment Regulation and Glycemic Fluctuation Control
Authors: Yin Jian , Cheng Li , Hong Yan , Li Zhaofeng , Li Caiming , Ban Xiaofeng , Zhu Ling , Gu Zhengbiao
Published: December 2023

Improper glycemic carbohydrates (GCs) consumption can be a potential risk factor for metabolic diseases such as obesity and diabetes, which may lead to cognitive impairment. Although several potential mechanisms have been studied, the biological relationship between carbohydrate consumption and neurocognitive impairment is still uncertain. In this review, the main effects and mechanisms of GCs’ digestive characteristics on cognitive functions are comprehensively elucidated. Additionally, healthier carbohydrate selection, a reliable research model, and future directions are discussed. Individuals in their early and late lives and patients with metabolic diseases are highly susceptible to dietary-induced cognitive impairment. It is well known that gut function is closely related to dietary patterns. Unhealthy carbohydrate diet-induced gut microenvironment disorders negatively impact cognitive functions through the gut–brain axis. Moreover, severe glycemic fluctuations, due to rapidly digestible carbohydrate consumption or metabolic diseases, can impair neurocognitive functions by disrupting glucose metabolism, dysregulating calcium homeostasis, oxidative stress, inflammatory responses, and accumulating advanced glycation end products. Unstable glycemic status can lead to more severe neurological impairment than persistent hyperglycemia. Slow-digested or resistant carbohydrates might contribute to better neurocognitive functions due to stable glycemic response and healthier gut functions than fully gelatinized starch and nutritive sugars.
Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Its Impact on Adipogenesis: Molecular Mechanisms Implicated
Authors: Kim Gyuhui , Lee Jiyoon , Ha Joohun , Kang Insug , Choe Wonchae
Published: December 2023

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress plays a pivotal role in adipogenesis, which encompasses the differentiation of adipocytes and lipid accumulation. Sustained ER stress has the potential to disrupt the signaling of the unfolded protein response (UPR), thereby influencing adipogenesis. This comprehensive review illuminates the molecular mechanisms that underpin the interplay between ER stress and adipogenesis. We delve into the dysregulation of UPR pathways, namely, IRE1-XBP1, PERK and ATF6 in relation to adipocyte differentiation, lipid metabolism, and tissue inflammation. Moreover, we scrutinize how ER stress impacts key adipogenic transcription factors such as proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) and CCAAT-enhancer-binding proteins (C/EBPs) along with their interaction with other signaling pathways. The cellular ramifications include alterations in lipid metabolism, dysregulation of adipokines, and aged adipose tissue inflammation. We also discuss the potential roles the molecular chaperones cyclophilin A and cyclophilin B play in adipogenesis. By shedding light on the intricate relationship between ER stress and adipogenesis, this review paves the way for devising innovative therapeutic interventions.
Triple-Emulsion-Based Antibubbles: A Step Forward in Fabricating Novel Multi-Drug Delivery Systems
Authors: Zia Rabia , Poortinga Albert T. , Nazir Akmal , Aburuz Salahdein , van Nostrum Cornelus F.
Published: December 2023

Developing carriers capable of efficiently transporting both hydrophilic and lipophilic payloads is a captivating focus within the pharmaceutical and drug delivery research domain. Antibubbles, constituting an innovative encapsulation system designed for drug delivery purposes, have garnered scientific interest thanks to their distinctive water-in-air-in-water (W1/A/W2) structure. However, in contrast to their precursor, i.e., nanoparticle-stabilized W1/O/W2 double emulsion, traditional antibubbles lack the ability to accommodate a lipophilic payload, as the intermediary (volatile) oil layer of the emulsion is replaced by air during the antibubble fabrication process. Therefore, here, we report the fabrication of triple-emulsion-based antibubbles (O1/W1/A/W2), in which the inner aqueous phase was loaded with a nanoemulsion stabilized by various proteins, including whey, soy, or pea protein isolates. As model drugs, we employed the dyes Nile red in the oil phase and methylene blue in the aqueous phase. The produced antibubbles were characterized regarding their size distribution, entrapment efficiency, and stability. The produced antibubbles demonstrated substantial entrapment efficiencies for both lipophilic (ranging from 80% to 90%) and hydrophilic (ranging from 70% to 82%) components while also exhibiting an appreciable degree of stability during an extended rehydration period of two weeks. The observed variations among different antibubble variants were primarily attributed to differences in protein concentration rather than the type of protein used.
Investigation of Crystallization, Morphology, and Mechanical Properties of Polypropylene/Polypropylene-Polyethylene Block Copolymer Blends
Authors: Shao Wenjun , Liu Li-Zhi , Wang Ying , Wang Yuanxia , Shi Ying , Song Lixin
Published: December 2023

Polyethylene (PE)-based elastomers are the ideal choice for enhancing the compatibility of polypropylene/polyethylene (PP/PE) blends and improving the mechanical properties of PP-based materials. However, the issue of blend systems lies in the interplay between the crystallization processes. Therefore, we investigated the crystallization behavior during the cooling process of a new generation of PP/PE block copolymers (PP-b-PE) and random polypropylene (PPR, a copolymer of propylene and a small amount of ethylene or an alpha-olefin) blends using in-situ X-ray diffraction/scattering and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) techniques. We also conducted mechanical performance tests on PPR/PP-b-PE blends at room temperature and low temperature (−5 °C). The results indicate that during the cooling process, the PP phase of PP-b-PE will follow the PPR to crystallize in advance and form a eutectic mixture, thereby enhancing the compatibility of PP/PE. Moreover, the PPR/PP-b-PE blend will form stable β-(300) crystals with excellent mechanical properties. Due to the improved compatibility of PP/PE with PP-b-PE, PE crystals are dispersed within PP crystals, providing bonding that improves the toughness of PPR under the low stiffness failure conditions of PPR/PP-b-PE blends, thereby enhancing their impact performance at low and room temperatures. This research has great significance for both recycling waste plastics and enhancing the low-temperature toughness of PPR.
Geopolymer Materials for Extrusion-Based 3D-Printing: A Review
Authors: Ricciotti Laura , Apicella Antonio , Perrotta Valeria , Aversa Raffaella
Published: December 2023

This paper examines how extrusion-based 3D-printing technology is evolving, utilising geopolymers (GPs) as sustainable inorganic aluminosilicate materials. Particularly, the current state of 3D-printing geopolymers is critically examined in this study from the perspectives of the production process, printability need, mix design, early-age material features, and sustainability, with an emphasis on the effects of various elements including the examination of the fresh and hardened properties of 3D-printed geopolymers, depending on the matrix composition, reinforcement type, curing process, and printing configuration. The differences and potential of two-part and one-part geopolymers are also analysed. The applications of advanced printable geopolymer materials and products are highlighted, along with some specific examples. The primary issues, outlooks, and paths for future efforts necessary to advance this technology are identified.
Alternative Options for Ebullated Bed Vacuum Residue Hydrocracker Naphtha Utilization
Authors: Stratiev Dicho , Shishkova Ivelina , Ivanov Mihail , Dinkov Rosen , Toteva Vesislava , Angelova Daniela , Kolev Iliyan , Tavlieva Mariana , Yordanov Dobromir
Published: December 2023

The vacuum residue hydrocracker naphtha (VRHN) is a chemically unstable product that during storage changes its colour and forms sediments after two weeks. It cannot be directly exported from the refinery without improving its chemical stability. In this research, the hydrotreatment of H-Oil naphtha with straight run naphtha in a commercial hydrotreater, its co-processing with fluid catalytic cracking (FCC) gasoline in a commercial Prime-G+ post-treater, and its co-processing with vacuum gas oil (VGO) in a commercial FCC unit were discussed. The hydrotreatment improves the chemical stability of H-Oil naphtha and reduces its sulphur content to 3 ppm. The Prime-G+ co-hydrotreating increases the H-Oil naphtha blending research octane number (RON) by 6 points and motor octane number (MON) by 9 points. The FCC co-cracking with VGO enhances the blending RON by 11.5 points and blending MON by 17.6 points. H-Oil naphtha conversion to gaseous products (C1–C4 hydrocarbons) in the commercial FCC unit was found to be 50%. The use of ZSM 5 containing catalyst additive during processing H-Oil naphtha showed to lead to FCC gasoline blending octane enhancement by 2 points. This enabled an increment of low octane number naphtha in the commodity premium near zero sulphur automotive gasoline by 2.4 vol.% and substantial improvement of refinery margin. The processing of H-Oil naphtha in the FCC unit leads also to energy saving as a result of an equivalent lift steam substitution in the FCC riser.
Higher UHI Intensity, Higher Urban Temperature? A Synthetical Analysis of Urban Heat Environment in Urban Megaregion
Authors: Wang Jing , Zhou Weiqi , Zhao Wenhui
Published: December 2023

Urban heat islands (UHIs) aggravate urban heat stress and, therefore, exacerbate heat-related morbidity and mortality as global warming continues. Numerous studies used surface urban heat island intensity (SUHII) to quantify the change in the UHI effect and its drivers for heat mitigation. However, whether the variations in SUHII among cities can demonstrate the physical difference and fluctuation of the urban thermal environment is poorly understood. Here, we present a comparison study on the temporal trends of SUHII and LST in urban and nonurban areas in 13 cities of the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei (BTH) megaregion in China and further identify different types of changes in SUHII based on the temporal trends of land surface temperature (LST) in urban and nonurban areas from 2000 to 2020. We also measured the effect of the changes in four socioecological factors (i.e., population density, vegetation greenness (EVI), GDP, and built-up area) on the trends of SUHII to understand the dynamic interaction between the UHI effect and socioecological development. We found the following. (1) Nine out of thirteen cities showed a significant increasing trend in SUHII, indicating that the SUHI effects have been intensified in most of the cities in the BTH megaregion. (2) The spatial pattern of summer mean SUHII and LST in urban areas varied greatly. Among the 13 cities, Beijing had the highest mean SUHII, but Handan had the highest urban temperature, which suggests that a city with stronger SUHII does not necessarily have a higher urban temperature or hazardous urban thermal environment. (3) Four types of changes in SUHII were identified in the 13 cities, which resulted from different temporal trends of LST in urban areas and nonurban areas. In particular, one type of increasing trend of SUHII in seven cities resulted from a greater warming trend (increasing LST) in urban than nonurban areas (SUHII↑1), and another type of increasing trend of SUHII in Beijing and Chengde was attributed to the warming trends (increasing LST) in urban areas and the cooling trends (decreasing LST) in nonurban areas (SUHII↑2). Meanwhile, the third type of increasing trend of SUHII in Zhangjiakou was due to a greater cooling (decreasing LST) trend in nonurban areas than in urban areas (SUHII↑3). In contrast, three cities with a decreasing trend of SUHII were caused by the increase in LST in urban and nonurban areas, but the warming trend in nonurban areas was greater than in urban areas (SUHII↓1). (4) Among the relationship between the trend of SUHII (TrendSUHII) and the changes in socioecological factors (Trendpopulation density, TrendGDP per captica, TrendEVI, and Trendbuild-up area), a significantly positive correlation between TrendSUHII and TrendEVI indicated that the change in SUHII was significantly related to an increased rate of EVI. This is mainly because increased vegetation in nonurban areas would result in lower temperatures in nonurban areas.
Mid-Term Monitoring of Suspended Sediment Plumes of Greek Rivers Using Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) Imagery
Authors: Karalis Sotirios , Karymbalis Efthimios , Tsanakas Konstantinos
Published: December 2023

This study focuses on the suspended sediment delivery of 17 rivers and streams of various sizes to the sea over a wide geographical area covering most of the Greek peninsula, utilizing two Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) products. Equal-area polygons (“plume” polygons), were delineated at the mouths of each selected river. These polygons were utilized to estimate the suspended sediment load of each river through the application of suspended sediment indices, ratios, and masks. To achieve this, 669 Level 1B MODIS images (MOD02) and their corresponding MODIS cloud products (MOD35) were downloaded and processed for a 10-water-year period (2004–2014). During this period of 669 days, there were 58 flood events (episodes) ranging in duration from 5 to 45 days. Relative atmospheric correction was applied to the images based on four selected bright invariant areas (PIFs) scattered along mainland Greece. The second product used in this study was MOD09Q1, an atmospherically corrected 8-day composite processed for the entire record period (2000–2019). Suspended sediment indices, ratios, and masks were developed using all three visible channels and near-infrared (NIR) for the MOD02 dataset, while only Red and Near-InfraRed (NIR) channels were available from the MOD09Q dataset. The resulting rankings from the remote sensing analysis were compared with the predictions of soil loss models, and the outcomes were largely consistent. While the remote sensing results can be considered as a type of experimental data or measurements, they come with inherent limitations. These include infrequent access to cloud-free data on stormy days, the influence of wind and currents, and the potential impact of dust storms originating from Africa, among others. On the other hand, soil loss models are sensitive to the parameter values used, and in some cases, the uncertainties are significant. Hence, the ranking derived from remote sensing can serve as a calibration of the models, particularly for the BQART model, which provides information on the catchment’s sink capacity. An index of “sediment productivity per square kilometer and mm of rainfall” was developed. This index can be considered a “sediment delivery ratio” and is crucial for accurately quantifying the phenomenon.
Optimizing Forest Harvesting Efficiency: A Comparative Analysis of Small-Sized Logging Crews Using Cable-Grapple Skidders
Authors: Stoilov Stanimir , Nichev Pavel , Angelov Georgi , Chavenetidou Marina , Tsioras Petros A.
Published: December 2023

Examination of the technical and economic dimensions of skidding operations is imperative for sustainable forest management, offering invaluable insights crucial for the formulation of sustainable forestry strategies. In many countries, the shift from modified agricultural machinery to purpose-built forest machinery has become apparent in forest operations. However, this transition often accompanies a reduction in logging crew size, raising new questions about productivity, costs, and ergonomics of the introduced harvesting systems. This study investigates two skidding systems utilizing the cable-grapple skidder Welte 115/5L, differing in work team size: one with one skidder operator and two chainsaw operators (WT3) and the other with one skidder operator and one chainsaw operator (WT2). Conducted in natural European beech forests in southern Bulgaria, the research focused on the group shelterwood system within the Natura 2000 network. Both WT3 and WT2 exhibited net skidding productivity of 9.96 m3 PMH−1 over a mean skidding distance of 300 m and a mean winching distance of 20 m, outperforming conventional systems in the area. Despite this, there were notable differences in gross skidding productivity (8.64 m3 SMH−1 for WT3 vs. 7.30 m3 SMH−1 for WT2), affecting skidding cost (EUR 5.41 m−3 for WT3 vs. EUR 6.62 m−3 for WT2) and unit production cost (EUR 9.33 m−3 vs. EUR 11.53 m−3). This study highlights that the cable-grapple skidder can be effectively employed by smaller teams, providing higher productivity, lower unit cost, and increased flexibility during piling, primarily due to the presence of the knuckle-boom loader. While WT2 experienced more delays and production pressure, the findings suggest that WT3 represents a balanced option for small logging crews, ensuring sustainable forest operations in the face of workforce challenges.
Do You Really Want to Know? Exploring Desired Information Transparency for Local Food Products
Authors: Corry Rachel , Holt Jessica , Lamm Alexa J. , Borron Abigail
Published: December 2023

Food system communicators are challenged to inform the public about food consumption in a way that addresses consumer interests and values. Consumers are increasingly concerned about the environmental risks of food production and may be seeking local food as a more sustainable option than conventional food. Online food purchasing is expanding the options and information available to consumers. Identifying the value of environmental impact measures accompanying local food online provides insight into food marketing strategies for different audiences. The purpose of this research was to predict the importance of environmental impact measures for individuals purchasing local food online given their information seeking, subjective norms, and perceived connection between local food and climate change mitigation. Data were collected using a web-based survey of 906 respondents from Florida, Georgia, and Alabama. Findings revealed respondents tend to think local food contributes to climate change mitigation, and environmental impact measures should account for their information seeking, subjective norms, and perceived connection between local food and climate change mitigation. Transparency about local food environmental impacts may inform consumer decision making about food consumption. This study adds to the literature on perceived risk related to agri-food systems and calls for an exploration of information seeking with online grocery purchasing.
The Climate Change Influence on Cedrela odorata L. Radial Growth in the Amazon
Authors: Da Costa Wayka P. L. B. , Pinheiro Érika F. M. , Latorraca João V. F. , Moutinho Victor H. P. , Carmo Fábio H. D. J. , Ataíde Glaycianne C. V. S. , Volpato Maristela , Aguiar Diego L. , Andrade Fernando W. C.
Published: December 2023

Half of the Amazon Forest, which has a marked seasonality in rainfall, is susceptible to intense droughts caused by positive phases of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO). Cedrela odorata L., sensitive to climate variations, emerges as a promising candidate for studies on how trees respond to climate change. Given the demand for its wood and the imperative for its protection in the Amazon Biome, applying the principles of environmental sustainability becomes crucial. This study characterizes local climatic variables near the Amazon River and assesses their impact, as well as the effect of ENSO, on the radial growth of Cedrela odorata using Pearson correlation analyses. Ring synchronization followed the standard methodology in dendrochronology, confirming common growth patterns and the formation of growth rings in C. odorata. Significant correlations with growth were noted concerning local climate, with negative associations for maximum and average temperatures and evapotranspiration, and a positive correlation with relative air humidity. ENSO exhibited a significant negative correlation with growth rings, indicating reduced growth during El Niño events. The species is notably sensitive to water availability, particularly at the onset of the growth period. The study concludes that the growth of C. odorata in the Óbidos-PA microregion responds to climate change.
Research on the Recyclable Design of Wooden Furniture Based on the Recyclability Evaluation
Authors: Zhang Zhuoyu , Zhu Jiangang , Qi Qian
Published: December 2023

With the rapid development of the economy and the change in people’s aesthetic concepts, the renewal of furniture has become more and more frequent. Among the huge amount of used furniture, solid wood and wood-based panel furniture account for the vast majority, but the imperfective recycling system and insufficient recycling efforts result in serious waste, which is contrary to the low-carbon transition and sustainable development means. Based on the whole life-cycle theory of products, the recyclable designability of wooden furniture at all stages of design, manufacturing, sales, use, and recycling was researched and analyzed, and feasible suggestions to the government, enterprises, and consumers were proposed respectively. In particular, an evaluation index system and evaluation model for the recyclability of wooden furniture were established with an aim of quantitatively analyzing the recycling of wooden furniture, which will provide certain references not only to achieve reasonable recycling and disposal of used furniture but also to solve the furniture recycling issues from various levels.
Using the Impact-WEB_GIS Platform to Assess the Impacts of Environmental Sustainability Public Policies in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area
Authors: Medeiros Eduardo , Valente Bernardo , Pinto Ricardo , Dias Miguel Sales
Published: December 2023

Urban environmental sustainability is a growing concern within the United Nations and the European Union’s ongoing policy agendas to fight climate change. This paper contributes to this debate by presenting the main impacts of the Operational Programme for Sustainability and Use of Resources (POSEUR 2014–2020) in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area (NUTS II). The analysis was completed using the Impact-WEB_GIS platform, specially developed for this study, supported by a territorial impact assessment methodology. In addition to the production of general impact scores, five analytic dimensions were further analysed, supported by state-of-the-art (i) low-emissions economy, (ii) adaptation to climate change, (iii) risk prevention and management, (iv) environmental protection and (v) resource efficiency. At a strategic level, the research created awareness of the need to adjust regional policy to the region’s characteristics on environmental sustainability matters.
Dynamic Control of Flood Limited Water Levels for Parallel Reservoirs by Considering Forecast Period Uncertainty
Authors: Li Yanbin , Li Yubo , Feng Kai , Tian Kaiyuan , Huang Tongxuan
Published: December 2023

The objective of this study is to achieve the dynamic optimization of the flood limited water level (FLWL) in parallel reservoirs, using Luhun Reservoir and Guxian Reservoir as case studies. The innovation lies in establishing a dynamic control optimization model for the FLWL of parallel reservoirs, considering the uncertainty in the forecasting period of the flood forecast due to the varying locations of the rainstorm center from upstream to downstream. To commence, the Fisher optimal segmentation method is employed for flood season staging to determine the staged FLWL of each reservoir. Subsequently, considering the uncertainty in the foresight period, the upper range of the dynamic FLWL is determined through the improved pre-discharge capacity constraint method and Monte Carlo simulation. Finally, a multi-objective optimization model is established to determine the optimal dynamic FLWL control operation scheme for parallel reservoirs, utilizing the Non-Dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II). This model takes into account both downstream flood control requirements and the water supply benefits of the parallel reservoirs. Through the optimization of the scheme, the water supply of the parallel reservoirs can be augmented by 15,347.6 m3 during the flood season. This optimization effectively achieves a harmonious balance between flood control and water supply, holding significant implications for mitigating drought risks amid changing conditions.
Exploring Intra-Island Population Mobility and Economic Resilience: The Case of Hainan Island, China
Authors: Fang Xiaomeng , Liu Weili
Published: December 2023

Islands may be more resilient than we realize when responding to shocks. As COVID-19 lessens international tourism to islands, it is valuable to explore whether island recovery can be accredited to the interactive behaviors within the island. Therefore, this research takes 18 administrative regions within Hainan Island as the research object, uses population migration big data to show the intra-island interaction network, and focuses on the impact of population mobility on economic resilience under the pandemic shock. Overall, population mobility contributes to the recovery of economic resilience under the pandemic shock, but this effect is regionally heterogeneous between the economic circle and the ecological conservation area. During the study period, there is a local spatial autocorrelation between economic resilience and population mobility, showing sporadic scattered distributions of the H-H, H-L and L-L cluster. The research findings offer practical strategies to improve island resilience.
A New Cosine-Originated Probability Distribution with Symmetrical and Asymmetrical Behaviors: Repetitive Acceptance Sampling with Reliability Application
Authors: Alshanbari Huda M. , Rao Gadde Srinivasa , Seong Jin-Taek , Salem Sultan , Khosa Saima K.
Published: December 2023

Several new acceptance sampling plans using various probability distribution methods have been developed in the literature. However, there is no published work on the design of new sampling plans using trigonometric-based probability distributions. In order to cover this amazing and fascinating research gap, we first introduce a novel probabilistic method called a new modified cosine-G method. A special member of the new modified cosine-G method, namely, a new modified cosine-Weibull distribution, is examined and implemented. The density function of the new model possesses symmetrical as well as asymmetrical behaviors. The usefulness and superior fitting power of the new modified cosine-Weibull distribution are demonstrated by analyzing an asymmetrical data set. Furthermore, based on the new modified cosine-Weibull distribution, we develop a new repetitive acceptance sampling strategy for attributes with specified shape parameters. Finally, a real-world application is presented to illustrate the proposed repetitive acceptance sampling strategy.