bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biochar Production and Demineralization Characteristics of Food Waste for Fuel Conversion
Authors: Ahn Kwang-Ho , Shin Dong-Chul , Lee Ye-Eun , Jeong Yoonah , Jung Jinhong , Kim I-Tae
Published: August 2023

The pyrolysis of food waste has high economic potential and produces several value-added products, such as gas, bio-oil, and biochar. In South Korea, biochar production from food waste is prohibited, because dioxins are generated during combustion caused by the chloride ions arising from the high salt content. This study is the first to examine the water quality and the applicability of food waste-based biochar as solid refuse fuel (SRF) based on a demineralization process. The calorific value increased after demineralization due to the removal of ionic substances and the high carbon content. The chloride ion removal rate after demineralization increased with the increasing pyrolysis temperature. A proximate analysis of biochar indicated that the volatile matter decreased, while ash and fixed carbon increased, with increasing pyrolysis temperature. At 300 °C pyrolysis temperature, all domestic bio-SRF standards were met. The organic matter concentration in water decreased with increasing carbonization temperature, and the concentrations of soluble harmful substances, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), were within the standards or non-detectable. These results suggest that biochar can be efficiently generated from food waste while meeting the emission standards for chloride ions, dissolved VOCs, ash, and carbon.
High-Throughput Phytochemical Unscrambling of Flowers Originating from Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bge. var. mongholicus (Bge.) P. K. Hsiao and Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bug. by Applying the Intagretive Plant Metabolomics Method Using UHPLC−Q−TOF−MS/MS
Authors: Liu Qi , Li Jinghui , Gu Meiling , Kong Wanying , Lin Zhao , Mao Jialin , Zhang Meng , Jiang Liyan , Liu Can , Wang Yumei , Liu Jicheng
Published: August 2023

Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bge. var. mongholicus (Bge.) P. K. Hsiao (MO) and Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bug. (ME) are two primary sources of the Astragalus herb, also known as “Huangqi” in China, which is widely applied to treat hypertension, glomerulonephritis, ischemic heart disease, and diabetes mellitus. As two different sources of the Astragalus herb, the chemical profiles of MO and ME may be different. Previous studies showed abundant differences in chemical composition between MO and ME. Therefore, the by-products of MO and ME, such as Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bge. var. mongholicus (Bge.) P. K. Hsiao flower (MOF) and Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bug. flower (MEF), may have different phytochemical profiles. In this paper, a metabolomics method combined with ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography and electrospray ionization/quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC−Q−TOF−MS/MS) was employed to analyze the components of MOF and MEF. Consequently, the results of principal component analysis (PCA) showed that MOF and MEF could be separated clearly. In total, 31 chemical markers differentiating MOF and MEF were successfully identified, including 22 flavonoids, 8 isoflavones and 1 benzopyran. Among them, the contents of 18 components, including Calycosin, Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside, Quercetin, Rutin, Kaempferol, Formononetin, Isomucronulatol and Prim-O-glucosylcimifugin in MEF, were significantly higher than in MOF. In turn, the contents of another 13 components, covering Biochanin A, Tectoridin, Isomucronulatol-7-O-glucoside, Liquiritin, Rhamnetin, etc., were lower in the MEF group than that in the MOF group. It is worth noting that flavonoids, especially flavonoid glycosides, were the primary active chemical ingredients in MOF and MEF. The 18 ingredients in MEF with a higher level carried out diverse activities, like anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-tumor activities, which led us to speculate that MEF may have greater pharmacological effects and potential development prospects than MOF. The present results displayed that the contents of ingredients in the two different species of plants were radically different, and there was significant uniqueness to the components of MOF and MEF. Our study not only provides helpful chemical information for further quality assessment and active mechanism research of MOF and MEF but also offers scientific support for the resource utilization of MOF and MEF.
Pharmacological Effects of Astragaloside IV: A Review
Authors: Liang Yutong , Chen Biqiong , Liang Di , Quan Xiaoxiao , Gu Ruolan , Meng Zhiyun , Gan Hui , Wu Zhuona , Sun Yunbo , Liu Shuchen , Dou Guifang
Published: August 2023

Astragaloside IV (AS-IV) is one of the main active components extracted from the Chinese medicinal herb Astragali and serves as a marker for assessing the herb’s quality. AS-IV is a tetracyclic triterpenoid saponin in the form of lanolin ester alcohol and exhibits various biological activities. This review article summarizes the chemical structure of AS-IV, its pharmacological effects, mechanism of action, applications, future prospects, potential weaknesses, and other unexplored biological activities, aiming at an overall analysis. Papers were retrieved from online electronic databases, such as PubMed, Web of Science, and CNKI, and data from studies conducted over the last 10 years on the pharmacological effects of AS—IV as well as its impact were collated. This review focuses on the pharmacological action of AS-IV, such as its anti-inflammatory effect, including suppressing inflammatory factors, increasing T and B lymphocyte proliferation, and inhibiting neutrophil adhesion-associated molecules; antioxidative stress, including scavenging reactive oxygen species, cellular scorching, and regulating mitochondrial gene mutations; neuroprotective effects, antifibrotic effects, and antitumor effects.
Novel Quinazoline Derivative Induces Differentiation of Keratinocytes and Enhances Skin Barrier Functions against Th2 Cytokine-Mediated Signaling
Authors: Park Yukyung , Srigouri Huddar , Kim Dongwon
Published: August 2023

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common inflammatory skin disease characterized by pruritic lesions and skin barrier dysfunction. In this study, we evaluated the effect of a quinazoline derivative, SH-340, on TSLP expression and signaling in human primary keratinocytes. Our results demonstrated that SH-340 significantly increased factors for differentiation and skin barrier function including KRT1, KRT2, KRT10, IVL, LOR, CLDN1, OVOL1, and FLG, whereas it inhibited TSLP expression in a dose-dependent manner, both at the mRNA and protein levels. Furthermore, SH-340 was found to inhibit the phosphorylation of STAT6, a downstream signaling molecule of IL-4 and IL-13, in keratinocytes. These findings suggest that SH-340 may suppress TSLP expression by inhibiting the IL-4/IL-13-STAT6 signaling pathway. Finally, SH-340 may potentially contribute to both the alleviation of inflammation and the restoration of skin barrier function.
Osmolytes Modulate Photoactivation of Phytochrome: Probing Protein Hydration
Authors: Balke Jens , Díaz Gutiérrez Paula , Rafaluk-Mohr Timm , Proksch Jonas , Koksch Beate , Alexiev Ulrike
Published: August 2023

Phytochromes are bistable red/far-red light-responsive photoreceptor proteins found in plants, fungi, and bacteria. Light-activation of the prototypical phytochrome Cph1 from the cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 allows photoisomerization of the bilin chromophore in the photosensory module and a subsequent series of intermediate states leading from the red absorbing Pr to the far-red-absorbing Pfr state. We show here via osmotic and hydrostatic pressure-based measurements that hydration of the photoreceptor modulates the photoconversion kinetics in a controlled manner. While small osmolytes like sucrose accelerate Pfr formation, large polymer osmolytes like PEG 4000 delay the formation of Pfr. Thus, we hypothesize that an influx of mobile water into the photosensory domain is necessary for proceeding to the Pfr state. We suggest that protein hydration changes are a molecular event that occurs during photoconversion to Pfr, in addition to light activation, ultrafast electric field changes, photoisomerization, proton release and uptake, and the major conformational change leading to signal transmission, or simultaneously with one of these events. Moreover, we discuss this finding in light of the use of Cph1-PGP as a hydration sensor, e.g., for the characterization of novel hydrogel biomaterials.
In Vitro and In Silico Anti-Rheumatic Arthritis Activity of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis
Authors: Sharma Ayushi , Goel Anjana , Lin Zhijian
Published: August 2023

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease characterized by bone and joint degeneration. Existing anti-inflammatory chemotherapy drugs offer temporary relief but come with undesirable side effects. Herbal medications have shown positive effects on RA symptoms with minimal adverse reactions. In this study, we investigated the potential of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis (NAT) through in vitro and in silico research. Hydroethanolic extracts of harsingar were prepared using the reflux method, containing alkaloids, phenol, saponin, steroids, proteins, tannins, terpenoids, carbohydrates, glycosides, and flavonoids, which exhibited TPC (98.56 ± 0.46 mg GAE/g) and TFC (34.51 ± 0.45 mg CE/g). LC–MS/MS analyzes the active compounds in the extract. NAT exhibited the best scavenging capabilities at 1 mg/mL in anti-oxidant and anti-arthritic activity. Maximum splenocyte proliferation occurred at 250 µg/mL. In vitro cell splenocyte studies revealed the downregulation of TNF-α and the upregulation of IL-10. Additionally, an in silico study demonstrated that bioactive constituents and targets bind with favorable binding affinity. These findings demonstrate the potential of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis in exerting anti-arthritic effects, as supported by in vitro and in silico studies. Further mechanistic research is necessary to validate the therapeutic potential of all phytoconstituents in RA treatment.
Recent Advances in C–H Functionalisation through Indirect Hydrogen Atom Transfer
Authors: Meger Filip S. , Murphy John A.
Published: August 2023

The functionalisation of C–H bonds has been an enormous achievement in synthetic methodology, enabling new retrosynthetic disconnections and affording simple synthetic equivalents for synthons. Hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) is a key method for forming alkyl radicals from C–H substrates. Classic reactions, including the Barton nitrite ester reaction and Hofmann–Löffler–Freytag reaction, among others, provided early examples of HAT. However, recent developments in photoredox catalysis and electrochemistry have made HAT a powerful synthetic tool capable of introducing a wide range of functional groups into C–H bonds. Moreover, greater mechanistic insights into HAT have stimulated the development of increasingly site-selective protocols. Site-selectivity can be achieved through the tuning of electron density at certain C–H bonds using additives, a judicious choice of HAT reagent, and a solvent system. Herein, we describe the latest methods for functionalizing C–H/Si–H/Ge–H bonds using indirect HAT between 2018–2023, as well as a critical discussion of new HAT reagents, mechanistic aspects, substrate scopes, and background contexts of the protocols.
Determination of Multiclass Pharmaceutical Residues in Milk Using Modified QuEChERS and Liquid-Chromatography-Hybrid Linear Ion Trap/Orbitrap Mass Spectrometry: Comparison of Clean-Up Approaches and Validation Studies
Authors: Koloka Ourania , Koulama Marioanna , Hela Dimitra , Albanis Triantafyllos , Konstantinou Ioannis
Published: August 2023

A multi-residue method was developed to identify and quantify pharmaceutical drug residues in full-fat milk, using a modified QuEChERS extraction procedure and sonication combined with Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography–High-Resolution Orbitrap Mass Spectrometry (UHPLC-HR-Orbitrap-MS). Sample preparation involves three different QuEChERS extraction procedures and sorbents for the purification step. The optimized modified extraction method, combined with the clean-up approaches using C18 and the EMR-Lipid sorbent, has been validated in terms of linearity, recovery, precision, LOD and LOQ, matrix effects (ME) and expanded uncertainty. The optimized method showed a linearity >0.9903, recoveries within the range 65.1–120.1%, precision (expressed as %RSD) <17.5%, medium (<39.9%) to low (<16.7%) matrix effects and acceptable expanded uncertainty (<33.1%). Finally, the proposed method was applied to representative real samples of milk (by local markets), revealing the existence of one pharmaceutical drug (imidocarb) in one sample.
A Simple Kit for the Good-Manufacturing-Practice Production of [68Ga]Ga-EDTA
Authors: Skulska Monika , Falborg Lise
Published: August 2023

Glomerular filtration rates for individual kidneys can be measured semi-quantitatively by a gamma camera using [99mTc]Tc-DTPA, with limited diagnostic accuracy. A more precise measurement can be performed on a PET/CT scanner using the radiotracer [68Ga]Ga-EDTA, which has been validated in animal studies. The purpose of this study was to develop an easy kit-based synthesis of [68Ga]Ga-EDTA that is compliant with good manufacturing practice (GMP) and applicable for human use. The production of the cold kit and its labeling were validated, as were the radiochemical purity measurement and analytical procedures for determining the Na2EDTA dihydrate content in the kits. In this study, we validated a GMP kit for the simple production of [68Ga]Ga-EDTA, with the intention of applicability for human use.
Clinical Studies on the Supplementation of Manufactured Human Milk Oligosaccharides: A Systematic Review
Authors: Schönknecht Yannik Bernd , Moreno Tovar María Virginia , Jensen Stina Rikke , Parschat Katja
Published: August 2023

Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) are a major component of human milk. They are associated with multiple health benefits and are manufactured on a large scale for their addition to different food products. In this systematic review, we evaluate the health outcomes of published clinical trials involving the supplementation of manufactured HMOs. We screened the PubMed database and Cochrane Library, identifying 26 relevant clinical trials and five publications describing follow-up studies. The clinical trials varied in study populations, including healthy term infants, infants with medical indications, children, and adults. They tested eight different HMO structures individually or as blends in varying doses. All trials included safety and tolerance assessments, and some also assessed growth, stool characteristics, infections, gut microbiome composition, microbial metabolites, and biomarkers. The studies consistently found that HMO supplementation was safe and well tolerated. Infant studies reported a shift in outcomes towards those observed in breastfed infants, including stool characteristics, gut microbiome composition, and intestinal immune markers. Beneficial gut health and immune system effects have also been observed in other populations following HMO supplementation. Further clinical trials are needed to substantiate the effects of HMO supplementation on human health and to understand their structure and dose dependency.
Six Weeks of Supplementation with Bovine Colostrum Effectively Reduces URTIs Symptoms Frequency and Gravity for Up to 20 Weeks in Pre-School Children
Authors: Hałasa Maciej , Skonieczna-Żydecka Karolina , Machaliński Bogusław , Bühner Leonard , Baśkiewicz-Hałasa Magdalena
Published: August 2023

Bovine colostrum is considered to provide anti-infective protection. Here, we present the first randomized controlled trial (RCT) aimed at assessing the preventive use of colostrum against upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) in healthy pre-school children. We analyzed 57 children—35 in the colostrum (COL—dried bovine colostrum) and 22 in the placebo (PBO—dried whey) group, who received these substances as follows: first 15 days 2 × 500 mg and then 30 days 1 × 500 mg. The reporting on the children’s health status, specifically on the frequency and gravity of URTI symptoms and abdominal side effects, was performed via an online survey. The influence of colostrum on the frequency of days with URTI symptoms remained significant until the 20th week of observation and reached 31% of median reduction. The median reduction reached 37% when the gravity of symptoms was analyzed. When we grouped symptomatic days into episodes of second gravity level, the reduction in their frequency was even larger (50%) and lasted until the end of the trial (21 weeks). No significant side effects, especially abdominal, were reported during the trial. Colostrum supplementation in pre-school children is well tolerated, safe and provides protection from frequency of URTIs and their gravity.
Aspartame Safety as a Food Sweetener and Related Health Hazards
Authors: Shaher Shurooq Asaad Abdulameer , Mihailescu Dan Florin , Amuzescu Bogdan
Published: August 2023

Aspartame is the methyl-ester of the aspartate-phenylalanine dipeptide. Over time, it has become a very popular artificial sweetener. However, since its approval by the main food safety agencies, several concerns have been raised related to neuropsychiatric effects and neurotoxicity due to its ability to activate glutamate receptors, as well as carcinogenic risks due to the increased production of reactive oxygen species. Within this review, we critically evaluate reports concerning the safety of aspartame. Some studies evidenced subtle mood and behavioral changes upon daily high-dose intake below the admitted limit. Epidemiology studies also evidenced associations between daily aspartame intake and a higher predisposition for malignant diseases, like non-Hodgkin lymphomas and multiple myelomas, particularly in males, but an association by chance still could not be excluded. While the debate over the carcinogenic risk of aspartame is ongoing, it is clear that its use may pose some dangers in peculiar cases, such as patients with seizures or other neurological diseases; it should be totally forbidden for patients with phenylketonuria, and reduced doses or complete avoidance are advisable during pregnancy. It would be also highly desirable for every product containing aspartame to clearly indicate on the label the exact amount of the substance and some risk warnings.
Augmentation of Growth Hormone by Chewing in Females
Authors: Okamura Emi , Ikeda Kaori , Mano-Usui Fumika , Kawashima Sachiko , Kondo Aki , Inagaki Nobuya
Published: August 2023

Sarcopenia is an age-related condition characterized by progressive loss of muscle mass and strength. Age-related decline in the secretion of growth hormone (GH), a condition called somatopause, is thought to play a role in sarcopenia. As pharmacological GH has adverse effects, we attempted to increase physiological GH. While the relationship between chewing and ghrelin levels has been studied, there are no reports on the relationship between chewing and GH. The aim of this study was to clarify the effects of chewing on the muscle anabolic hormones serum GH and plasma ghrelin. Thirteen healthy adults ingested a chewy nutrition bar containing 5.56 g of protein, 12.71 g of carbohydrate, and 0.09 g of fat on two different days, chewing before swallowing in one trial and swallowing without chewing in the other. Blood samples were taken before and after ingestion (0, 15, 30, and 60 min); GH, acylated ghrelin, glucose, insulin, amino acids, and lactate were measured. Two-way repeated ANOVA revealed a significant difference in the GH concentrations between the “Chew trial” and “Swallow trial” in females (p = 0.0054). However, post-hoc analyses found no statistically significant difference at each time point. The area under the curve of the percentage increase in GH was significantly increased in the “Chew trial” compared with the “Swallow trial” in females (12,203 ± 15,402% min vs. 3735 ± 988% min, p = 0.0488). Chewing had no effect on glucose, insulin, amino acids, or lactate concentrations. Thus, we found that chewing a protein supplement rather than swallowing it without chewing elevates the blood GH concentration. These results serve as a rationale for larger research and longitudinal studies to confirm the impacts of chewing on GH secretion.
Rice Bran Extract Suppresses High-Fat Diet-Induced Hyperlipidemia and Hepatosteatosis through Targeting AMPK and STAT3 Signaling
Authors: Son Joe Eun , Jo Jay-Young , Kim San , Park Min Ju , Lee Yerin , Park Seong Shil , Park Shin Young , Jung Su Myung , Jung Sung Keun , Kim Ji Yeon , Byun Sanguine
Published: August 2023

Rice bran, a by-product of rice milling, is abundant in bioactive molecules and is highly recognized for its health-promoting properties, particularly in improving metabolic conditions. Building on this knowledge, we aimed to optimize the extraction conditions to maximize the functional efficacy of rice bran extract (RBE) and further validate its impact on lipid metabolism. We found that the optimized RBE (ORBE) significantly suppressed high-fat diet-induced weight gain, hyperlipidemia, and hepatosteatosis in mouse models. ORBE treatment not only suppressed lipid uptake in vivo, but also reduced lipid accumulation in HepG2 cells. Importantly, we discovered that ORBE administration resulted in activation of AMPK and inhibition of STAT3, which are both crucial players in lipid metabolism in the liver. Collectively, ORBE potentially offers promise as a dietary intervention strategy against hyperlipidemia and hepatosteatosis. This study underlines the value of optimized extraction conditions in enhancing the functional efficacy of rice bran.
Examining the Double Burden of Underweight, Overweight/Obesity and Iron Deficiency among Young Children in a Canadian Primary Care Setting
Authors: Borkhoff Sean A. , Parkin Patricia C. , Birken Catherine S. , Maguire Jonathon L. , Macarthur Colin , Borkhoff Cornelia M.
Published: August 2023

There is little evidence on the prevalence of the double burden and association between body mass index (BMI) and iron deficiency among young children living in high-income countries. We conducted a cross-sectional study of healthy children, 12–29 months of age, recruited during health supervision visits in Toronto, Canada, and concurrently measured BMI and serum ferritin. The prevalence of a double burden of underweight (zBMI < −2) and iron deficiency or overweight/obesity (zBMI > 2) and iron deficiency was calculated. Regression models examined BMI and serum ferritin as continuous and categorical variables, adjusted for covariates. We found the following in terms of prevalence among 1953 children (mean age 18.3 months): underweight 2.6%, overweight/obesity 4.9%, iron deficiency 13.8%, iron-deficiency anemia 5.4%, underweight and iron deficiency 0.4%, overweight/obesity and iron deficiency 1.0%. The change in median serum ferritin for each unit of zBMI was −1.31 µg/L (95% CI −1.93, −0.68, p < 0.001). Compared with normal weight, we found no association between underweight and iron deficiency; meanwhile, overweight/obesity was associated with a higher odds of iron deficiency (OR 2.15, 95% CI 1.22, 3.78, p = 0.008). A double burden of overweight/obesity and iron deficiency occurs in about 1.0% of young children in this high-income setting. For risk stratification and targeted screening in young children, overweight/obesity should be added to the list of important risk factors.
The Impact of COVID-19 Restrictions and Changes to Takeaway Regulations in England on Consumers’ Intake and Methods of Accessing Out-of-Home Foods: A Longitudinal, Mixed-Methods Study
Authors: Fong Mackenzie , Scott Steph , Albani Viviana , Brown Heather
Published: August 2023

Background: COVID-19 restrictions significantly impacted the operations of fast food and full-service retailers. Full-service retailers were permitted to operate as takeaway outlets without needing to seek formal changes in planning permissions. We conducted a study to determine consumers’ intake and modes of accessing foods from fast food and full-service retailers during various COVID-19 restrictions and changes to takeaway/delivery regulations, as well as their experiences. Methods: We conducted a longitudinal, mixed-methods study comprising three surveys, which examined the intake frequency and modes of accessing retailers, and two rounds of qualitative focus groups, which explored their related experiences. The data were collected at three timepoints (T) from May 2021–March 2022. The participants were adults living in Northern England (n = 701 at T1); a sub-sample participated in the focus groups (n = 22). The intake data were presented descriptively; an ordered logit regression explored the factors associated with the intake frequency. The focus group data were analysed using a framework analysis. Results: The mean weekly intake frequency from fast food retailers at T1, T2, and T3 was 0.96 (SD 1.05), 1.08 (SD 1.16), and 1.06 times (SD 1.12), respectively. For full-service retailers, this was 0.36 (SD 0.69), 0.75 (1.06), and 0.71 (SD 0.99) times, respectively. Food access issues (OR (SE): T1 = 1.65 (0.40), T2 = 2.60 (0.66), T = 2.1 (0.62)) and obesity (T1 = 1.61 (0.31), T2 = 2.21 (0.46), T3 = 1.85 (0.42)) were positively associated with intake from fast food, but not full-service retailers. Delivery services were commonly used to access fast food (30–34% participants), but not full-service retailers (6–10% participants). As COVID-19 restrictions eased, participants were eager to socialise on-premises at full-service retailers. Conclusions: Takeaway/delivery services were seldom used to access full-service retailers, but the use of delivery services to access fast food was high. Policymakers must recognise delivery services as a growing part of the food environment, and the challenges they pose to planning policies for obesity prevention.
Dietary ω3 Fatty Acids and Phytosterols in the Modulation of the HDL Lipidome: A Longitudinal Crossover Clinical Study
Authors: Padro Teresa , López-Yerena Anallely , Pérez Antonio , Vilahur Gemma , Badimon Lina
Published: August 2023

High-density lipoproteins (HDLs) are complex particles composed of a wide range of lipids, proteins, hormones and vitamins that confer to the HDL particles multiple cardiovascular protective properties, mainly against the development of atherosclerosis. Among other factors, the HDL lipidome is affected by diet. We hypothesized that diet supplementation with ω3 (docosahexaenoic acid: DHA and eicosapentaenoic acid: EPA) and phytosterols (PhyS) would improve the HDL lipid profile. Overweight subjects (n = 20) were enrolled in a two-arm longitudinal crossover study. Milk (250 mL/day), supplemented with either ω3 (EPA + DHA, 375 mg) or PhyS (1.6 g), was administered to the volunteers over two consecutive 28-day intervention periods, followed by HDL lipidomic analysis. The comprehensive lipid pattern revealed that the HDL lipidome is diet-dependent. ω3-milk supplementation produced more changes than PhyS, mainly in cholesteryl esters (CEs). After ω3-milk intake, levels of DHA and EPA within phosphatylcholines, triglycerides and CE lipids in HDLs increased (p < 0.05). The correlation between lipid species showed that lipid changes occur in a coordinated manner. Finally, our analysis revealed that the HDL lipidome is also sex-dependent. The HDL lipidome is affected by diet and sex, and the 4 weeks of ω3 supplementation induced HDL enrichment with EPA and DHA.
Pain Management in Children Admitted to the Emergency Room: A Narrative Review
Authors: Cunico Daniela , Rossi Arianna , Verdesca Matteo , Principi Nicola , Esposito Susanna
Published: August 2023

Pain is a biopsychosocial experience characterized by sensory, physiological, cognitive, affective, and behavioral components. Both acute and chronic pain can have short and long-term negative effects. Unfortunately, pain treatment is often inadequate. Guidelines and recommendations for a rational approach to pediatric pain frequently differ, and this may be one of the most important reasons for the poor attention frequently paid to pain treatment in children. This narrative review discusses the present knowledge in this regard. A literature review conducted on papers produced over the last 8 years showed that although in recent years, compared to the past, much progress has been made in the treatment of pain in the context of the pediatric emergency room, there is still a lot to do. There is a need to create guidelines that outline standardized and easy-to-follow pathways for pain recognition and management, which are also flexible enough to take into account differences in different contexts both in terms of drug availability and education of staff as well as of the different complexities of patients. It is essential to guarantee an approach to pain that is as uniform as possible among the pediatric population that limits, as much as possible, the inequalities related to ethnicity and language barriers.
Hybrid Resorbable 3D-Printed Mesh/Electrospun Nanofibrous Drug/Biomolecule-Eluting Mats for Alveolar Ridge Preservation
Authors: Chen Shuen-Yeo , Lee Fu-Ying , Wu Ren-Chin , Chao Chien-En , Lu Chia-Jung , Liu Shih-Jung
Published: August 2023

In this research study, we developed hybrid resorbable three-dimensional (3D)-printed mesh/electrospun nanofibrous biomolecule-eluting mats for alveolar ridge preservation. The fabrication process involved the use of 3D printing and coaxial electrospinning technologies. Specifically, we utilized a lab-developed solution-extrusion 3D printer to fabricate polycaprolactone (PCL) meshes. Then, bi-layered poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanofibrous membranes, which embedded ibuprofen and epidermal growth factor (EGF), were prepared utilizing electrospinning and coaxial electrospinning techniques, respectively. To ensure the quality of the produced mesh and spun nanofibers, we carried out a characterization process. Furthermore, we estimated the in vitro and in vivo release characteristics of ibuprofen and EGF, respectively, using high-performance liquid chromatography and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. In addition, we assessed the effectiveness of hybrid nanofibrous mats for preserving the alveolar ridge by adopting an animal model and conducting a histology examination. The study findings demonstrate that the nanofibrous mats provided a continuous discharge of ibuprofen and EGF for more than four weeks. Moreover, the animal test carried out in vivo showed that animals implanted with this combination of mesh and drug-eluting mats displayed considerably greater mobility than those without mats. The histological analysis revealed no unfavorable impacts from the drug-eluting mats. Our study demonstrated the successful fabrication of resorbable drug-eluting nanofibrous mats for alveolar ridge preservation by utilizing both 3D printing and coaxial electrospinning technologies.
Novel Sustainable Composites Incorporating a Biobased Thermoplastic Matrix and Recycled Aerospace Prepreg Waste: Development and Characterization
Authors: Butenegro José Antonio , Bahrami Mohsen , Swolfs Yentl , Ivens Jan , Martínez Miguel Ángel , Abenojar Juana
Published: August 2023

Carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composite materials are widely used in engineering applications, but their production generates a significant amount of waste. This paper aims to explore the potential of incorporating mechanically recycled aerospace prepreg waste in thermoplastic composite materials to reduce the environmental impact of composite material production and promote the use of recycled materials. The composite material developed in this study incorporates a bio−based thermoplastic polymer, polyamide 11 (PA11), as the matrix material and recycled aerospace prepreg waste quasi-one-dimensionally arranged as reinforcement. Mechanical, thermal, and thermomechanical characterizations were performed through tensile, flexural, and impact tests, as well as differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). Compared to previous studies that used a different recycled CFRP in the shape of rods, the results show that the recycled prepregs are a suitable reinforcement, enhancing the reinforcement-matrix adhesion and leading to higher mechanical properties. The tensile results were evaluated by SEM, and the impact tests were evaluated by CT scans. The results demonstrate the potential of incorporating recycled aerospace prepreg waste in thermoplastic composite materials to produce high-performance and sustainable components in the aerospace and automotive industries.
Fabrication of Highly Conductive Porous Fe3O4@RGO/PEDOT:PSS Composite Films via Acid Post-Treatment and Their Applications as Electrochemical Supercapacitor and Thermoelectric Material
Authors: Gao Luyao , Liu Fuwei , Wei Qinru , Cai Zhiwei , Duan Jiajia , Li Fuqun , Li Huiying , Lv Ruotong , Wang Mengke , Li Jingxian , Wang Letian
Published: August 2023

As a remarkable multifunctional material, ferroferric oxide (Fe3O4) exhibits considerable potential for applications in many fields, such as energy storage and conversion technologies. However, the poor electronic and ionic conductivities of classical Fe3O4 restricts its application. To address this challenge, Fe3O4 nanoparticles are combined with graphene oxide (GO) via a typical hydrothermal method, followed by a conductive wrapping using poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonic sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) for the fabrication of composite films. Upon acid treatment, a highly conductive porous Fe3O4@RGO/PEDOT:PSS hybrid is successfully constructed, and each component exerts its action that effectively facilitates the electron transfer and subsequent performance improvement. Specifically, the Fe3O4@RGO/PEDOT:PSS porous film achieves a high specific capacitance of 244.7 F g−1 at a current of 1 A g−1. Furthermore, due to the facial fabrication of the highly conductive networks, the free-standing film exhibits potential advantages in flexible thermoelectric (TE) materials. Notably, such a hybrid film shows a high electric conductivity (σ) of 507.56 S cm−1, a three times greater value than the Fe3O4@RGO component, and achieves an optimized Seebeck coefficient (S) of 13.29 μV K−1 at room temperature. This work provides a novel route for the synthesis of Fe3O4@RGO/PEDOT:PSS multifunctional films that possess promising applications in energy storage and conversion.
The Utilization of Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus L.) Waste towards Sustainable Energy and Biochemicals: The Attainment of Zero-Waste Technologies
Authors: Sarangi Prakash Kumar , Srivastava Rajesh Kumar , Singh Akhilesh Kumar , Sahoo Uttam Kumar , Prus Piotr , Dziekański Paweł
Published: August 2023

The valorisation of food and fruit wastes has the potential for the production of sustainable energy and biochemicals. Approximately 70% of the weight of the original jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus L.) fruit is lost during its processing as waste in the form of peeled skin and core, both of which have not been utilized and, thus these contribute to disposal as well as pollution issues. The major components such as cellulose and hemicellulose can be easily biologically transformed into bioenergy sources such as ethanol, methanol, and butanol; valuable phenolics and biotechnological products such as pectin, citric acid, bromelain, ferulic acid, and vanillin; and many other products. These residues can also be utilized as essential sources for the biological transformation process, leading to the production of numerous products with added value, such as phenolic antioxidants, phenolic flavour compounds, and organic acids. Thus, the value addition of jackfruit waste can support sustainable solutions towards food and nutritional security. In this way, zero waste can be achieved through novel biorefineries, which are critically highlighted in this paper. Furthermore, novel technologies for the conversion of jackfruit waste are summarized with recent findings.
Exploring the Influence of Parking Penalties on Bike-Sharing System with Willingness Constraints: A Case Study of Beijing, China
Authors: Bao Jiayu , Chen Guojun , Liu Zhenghua
Published: August 2023

Dockless bike-sharing has experienced explosive growth, establishing itself as an integral component of urban public transport systems. Challenges such as parking violations have spurred operators and users to pursue standardized management. While electronic parking spots are employed to promote standard parking, suboptimal parking layouts can lead to illegal parking. Inadequate post-violation penalties fail to achieve standard parking, while excessive punishment diminishes user engagement. This study combines parking spot density and penalties to incentivize standard parking, and Beijing, China, was selected as the research object. Using an SP questionnaire survey, a binary logistic model analyzes bike-sharing users’ standard parking behavior and willingness to adhere to different rules. Findings reveal that optimal walking distances range from 300 to 450 m for service levels and exceed 400 m for service efficiency. Influential factors include gender, age, occupation, usage behavior, and travel preferences. Users with high-frequency, low-convenience expectations, low travel costs, and flexible travel exhibit strong adherence. Additionally, user acceptance of the maximum distances without penalties follows an exponential distribution, with 80% accepting 400 m and 40% accepting 800 m. Enforcement has a visible effect within 300 m, but diminishes with longer distances. Excessive penalties result in significant user loss.
Behavior and Biochemical Mechanism of High Iron Attapulgite Dosages Affecting Sewage Sludge Composting
Authors: Yu Zhaojing , Wang Bin , Jiang Xiaoya , Zeng Weimin , Yu Runlan , Wu Xiaoyan , Shen Li , Wu Xueling , Li Jiaokun , Liu Yuandong
Published: August 2023

We first revealed the behavior and biochemical mechanism of high iron attapulgite (HIAP) and different dosages affecting sewage sludge (SS) composting. HS/TOC ratio increased, but HA/TOC and HA/FA ratios reduced with the increase in HIAP dose. High-dose HIAP promoted the formation of more HS by weak catalytic effect but could bind more FA than HA by strong adsorption effect to inhibit the polymerization of the adsorbed FA into HA. Mixing SS with HIAP and subsequent composting as two consecutive processes during HIAP-amended composting significantly influenced the species distribution of heavy metals (HMs) Cu, Zn, and Cr. Each process roughly contributed one-half to HMs passivation. The bioavailable fraction (BF) of HMs reduced with the increase of HIAP dose. HIAP dose greatly affected the microbial community. Both 1% and 5% HIAP treatments promoted Proteobacteria and Firmicutes, but 10% HIAP promoted Actinobacteriota and Bacteroidota. At the thermophilic phase, HIAP dose greatly affected core thermophilic microbial genera, which were significantly correlated to pile temperature and pH value. In the maturity stage, core microbial genera in different treatments were basically similar and closely correlated to the bioavailable fraction (BF) of HMs and HA, and the influence order was BF–Cr > BF–Cu > BF–Zn > HA. The optimal 5% HIAP dose was recommended.
Towards a Green Economy in China? Examining the Impact of the Internet of Things and Environmental Regulation on Green Growth
Authors: Dong Zhang , Ullah Sana
Published: August 2023

The idea of green growth stresses the necessity for economic expansion while resolving environmental issues, notably climate change. The Internet of Things (IoT) and environmental regulations have the potential to support green growth. Therefore, this study intends to examine the empirical link between the IoT, environmental regulations, and green growth in China by utilizing the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) and quantile autoregressive distributed lag (QARDL) methods to analyze data from 1997 to 2021. Data are obtained from reputable local and international sources like the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), World Development Indicators (WDI), the Energy Information Administration (EIA), and the National Bureau of Statistics of China. Findings derived from the baseline ARDL model prove that the IoT, environmental regulations, renewable energy consumption, and research and development (R&D) encourage long-run green growth. Likewise, the robust model also highlights that the internet, environmental policy stringency, renewable energy consumption, and R&D help encourage green growth. In the short run, environmental policy stringency and the internet are favorably linked to green growth in the robust model, and renewable energy consumption is favorably linked to green growth in the baselines model; however, environmental regulation is negatively linked to green growth. The findings from the QARDL analysis show that the impact of the IoT on promoting green growth is significant across all quantiles. On the other hand, the effects of environmental regulation are more pronounced at higher levels of green growth. These findings imply that policymakers should try to increase the role of digitalization in society by promoting the IoT and the internet to decouple economic growth and environmental pollution. Moreover, the digitalization policy should be supported by implementing strict environmental laws and regulations.
The Effect of Digitalization on Ambidextrous Innovation in Manufacturing Enterprises: A Perspective of Empowering and Enabling
Authors: Liang Jinkai , Du Ke , Chen Dandan
Published: August 2023

Digital transformation has become an inevitable choice for manufacturing enterprises to sustain innovation in the digital world. This study selected a sample of Chinese provinces and A-share companies listed on the Shanghai and Shenzhen stock markets from 2011 to 2021 to examine the relationship between regional digitalization, enterprise digitalization, and enterprise ambidextrous innovation. We found that (1) regional digitalization can promote exploitative and exploratory innovation of manufacturing enterprises. Digitalization plays an empowering effect in the promotion process. The regional digital talent reserve significantly impacts ambidextrous innovation in manufacturing enterprises more than network infrastructure construction, digital technology development, and digital technology application; (2) Enterprise digitalization can promote exploitative and exploratory innovation of manufacturing enterprises. Digitalization plays an enabling impact in this promotion process; (3) Regional digitalization can promote the level of manufacturing enterprise digitalization. In promoting enterprise ambidextrous innovation, digitalization can realize the transformation from regional digitalization empowering to enterprise digitalization enabling. The regional digital talent reserve significantly impacts manufacturing enterprise digitalization more than network infrastructure construction, digital technology development, and digital technology application; (4) The impact of regional and enterprise digitalization on exploratory innovation in large-scale manufacturing enterprises is more significant, and large-scale enterprises are better able to transform from digitalization empowering to enabling. The conclusions of this study have specific theoretical and practical significance for revealing the relationship between digitalization and enterprise ambidextrous innovation and then promoting regional digitalization development, manufacturing enterprise digital transformation, and innovation development.
Do ESG Ratings of Chinese Firms Converge or Diverge? A Comparative Analysis Based on Multiple Domestic and International Ratings
Authors: Zhu Yunfu , Yang Haoling , Zhong Ma
Published: August 2023

Since the Chinese economy has transitioned to a sustainable model, the Chinese socially responsible investment (SRI) market has expanded rapidly, which has deeply stimulated the development of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) ratings for Chinese firms. Domestic agencies, such as SynTao, Rankins (RKS), Sino-Securities (SSII), and China Alliance of Social Value Investment (CASVI), and international agencies, such as Bloomberg, FTSE Russell (FTSE), and Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI), have launched their own ESG rating systems. These emerging ratings may provide users of information with more diverse references; however, if their results are too divergent, they may also confuse users. To what extent do these ESG rating results in the Chinese market converge or diverge? Aiming to answer this question, we used Hushen 300 index firms in 2019 as the initial sample, and selected 195 firms covered by the above seven ratings for the analysis. Firstly, by comparing the overlap in the top 100 lists of these sample firms, we found that the list overlap rate between each pair of ratings was between 66.36% and 82.35%; however, only 35% of the firms were listed in the top 100 of all seven ratings. Furthermore, the Pearson correlation analysis showed that the correlation coefficients between each pair of ratings ranged from 0.057 to 0.736, and the average was only 0.411. These results suggest a wide divergence in the ESG rating results for Chinese firms. We suggest that information users need to consider a more diverse and comprehensive perspective when utilizing these ratings.
Ecological Footprint of Different Culture Modes of Penaeus vannamei in Northern China
Authors: Chen Shujie , Wang Jing , Che Bin , Sun Chen
Published: August 2023

The rapid development of shrimp aquaculture has resulted in numerous ecological problems, thereby necessitating the assessment of its sustainable ecological development. This study employed the ecological footprint method to conduct a quantitative analysis of the environmental ramifications of two culture modes (pond and factory) of Penaeus vannamei. The analysis includes a horizontal comparison between two different modes and a vertical comparison among different aquaculture links of the same mode, with the objective of identifying the weak link in the aquaculture process. The results show that the ecological footprint per unit of profit of the factory culture mode was lower than that of the pond mode, while the ecological footprint per unit of output was higher in the former. Water resource consumption was identified as the primary component of the ecological footprint in both modes, accounting for over 70% of the total, followed by feed consumption. The higher energy consumption in the factory culture mode is ascribed to the operation of mass-production facilities. The feed conversion ratio in shrimp aquaculture requires improvement, as evidenced by a ratio of 1.05 in the pond mode and a higher ratio of 1.82 in the factory culture mode, indicating suboptimal feed utilization efficiency. In light of these conclusions, various measures and suggestions are put forth, including improving shrimp feed composition, implementing energy-saving measures, weighing production planning across different culture modes, and optimizing water resource utilization.