bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Development and physiochemical assessment of graphene-bioactive glass-P(3HB-co-4HB) composite scaffold as prospect biomaterial for wound healing
Authors: Abdul Rahim Mohd Aiman Hakimi , Samsurrijal Siti Fatimah , Abdullah Amirul Al-Ashraf , Mohd Noor Siti Noor Fazliah 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
The clinical management of wounds presents a considerable challenge because dressing selection must prioritise the provision of appropriate barrier and the healing properties, consider patient’s compliance factors such as comfort, functionality and practicality. This study primarily aimed to develop a composite scaffold patch for potential application in wound healing. Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate) [P(3HB-co-4HB)] is a biopolymer that originated from bacteria. It is well-recognised owing to its distinctive mechanical and physical characteristics suitable for biomedical applications. Graphene (G) and bioactive glass (BG) are biocompatible towards humans, and enhanced properties are achievable by adding biopolymer. In this study, composite scaffolds were developed by combining P(3HB-co-4HB) at a distinct proportion of 4HB monomer reinforced with G (3.0 wt.%) and BG (2.5 wt.%) by using solvent casting, resulting in two types of composite scaffolds: P(3HB-co-25%4HB)/G/BG and P(3HB-co-37%4HB)/G/BG. A successful composite scaffold as a unified structure was achieved based on chemical assessments of organic and inorganic elements within the composites. The pure polymer displayed a smooth surface, and the BG and G addition into the composite scaffolds increased surface roughness, forming irregular pores and protuberances. The wettability and hydrophilicity of the composites significantly improved up to 40% in terms of water uptake. An increment in crystallisation temperature diminished the flexibility of the composite’s scaffolds. Evaluation of Presto Blue biocompatibility demonstrated nontoxic behaviour with a dosage of less than 25.00 mg ml−1 of composite scaffold-conditioned media. The L929 fibroblast cells displayed excellent adhesion to both types of composite scaffolds, as evidenced by the increased percentage of cell viability observed throughout 14 d of exposure. These findings demonstrate the importance of optimising each component within the composite scaffolds and their interrelation, paving the way for excellent material properties and enhancing the potential for wound healing applications.
Whey protein-loaded 3D-printed poly (lactic) acid scaffolds for wound dressing applications
Authors: Kayadurmus Hanne Meryem , Rezaei Azadeh , Ilhan Elif , Cesur Sumeyye , Sahin Ali , Gunduz Oguzhan , Kalaskar Deepak M , Ekren Nazmi 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Chronic skin wounds pose a global clinical challenge, necessitating effective treatment strategies. This study explores the potential of 3D printed Poly Lactic Acid (PLA) scaffolds, enhanced with Whey Protein Concentrate (WPC) at varying concentrations (25, 35, and 50% wt), for wound healing applications. PLA’s biocompatibility, biodegradability, and thermal stability make it an ideal material for medical applications. The addition of WPC aims to mimic the skin’s extracellular matrix and enhance the bioactivity of the PLA scaffolds. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy results confirmed the successful loading of WPC into the 3D printed PLA-based scaffolds. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) images revealed no significant differences in pore size between PLA/WPC scaffolds and pure PLA scaffolds. Mechanical strength tests showed similar tensile strength between pure PLA and PLA with 50% WPC scaffolds. However, scaffolds with lower WPC concentrations displayed reduced tensile strength. Notably, all PLA/WPC scaffolds exhibited increased strain at break compared to pure PLA. Swelling capacity was highest in PLA with 25% WPC, approximately 130% higher than pure PLA. Scaffolds with higher WPC concentrations also showed increased swelling and degradation rates. Drug release was found to be prolonged with increasing WPC concentration. After seven days of incubation, cell viability significantly increased in PLA with 50% WPC scaffolds compared to pure PLA scaffolds. This innovative approach could pave the way for personalized wound care strategies, offering tailored treatments and targeted drug delivery. However, further studies are needed to optimize the properties of these scaffolds and validate their effectiveness in clinical settings.
Optimizing decellularization protocols for human thyroid tissues: a step towards tissue engineering and transplantation
Authors: Karabıyık Acar Özge , Bozdağ Gülnihal , Hacıhasanoğlu Ezgi , Tuncer A Alperen , Aysan Erhan , Torun Köse Gamze 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Hypothyroidism is caused by insufficient stimulation or disruption of the thyroid. However, the drawbacks of thyroid transplantation have led to the search for new treatments. Decellularization allows tissue transplants to maintain their biomimetic structures while preserving cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation. This study aimed to decellularize human thyroid tissues using a structure-preserving optimization strategy and present preliminary data on recellularization. Nine methods were used for physical and chemical decellularization. Quantitative and immunohistochemical analyses were performed to investigate the DNA and extracellular matrix components of the tissues. Biomechanical properties were determined by compression test, and cell viability was examined after seeding MDA-T32 papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) cells onto the decellularized tissues. Decellularized tissues exhibited a notable decrease (<50 ng mg−1 DNA, except for Groups 2 and 7) compared to the native thyroid tissue. Nonetheless, collagen and glycosaminoglycans were shown to be conserved in all decellularized tissues. Laminin and fibronectin were preserved at comparatively higher levels, and Young’s modulus was elevated when decellularization included SDS. It was observed that the strain value in Group 1 (1.63 ± 0.14 MPa) was significantly greater than that in the decellularized tissues between Groups 2–9, ranging from 0.13 ± 0.03–0.72 ± 0.29 MPa. Finally, viability assessment demonstrated that PTC cells within the recellularized tissue groups successfully attached to the 3D scaffolds and sustained metabolic activity throughout the incubation period. We successfully established a decellularization optimization for human thyroid tissues, which has potential applications in tissue engineering and transplantation research. Our next goal is to conduct recellularization using the methods utilized in Group 1 and transplant the primary thyroid follicular cell-seeded tissues into an in vivo animal model, particularly due to their remarkable 3D structural preservation and cell adhesion-promoting properties.
A multi-level network tool to trace wasted water from farm to fork and backwards
Authors: Semeria Francesco , Ridolfi Luca , Tuninetti Marta 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Food loss and waste (FLW) is an issue of great public concern, due to its major impact on food security and on the social, economic and environmental resources involved in food production, trade and consumption. In this work, we put the lens on water resources, as those lost in the different stages of FLW represent about a quarter of the total freshwater resources used in food crop production. To this end, we propose the NETFLOW model (Network-based Evaluation Tool for Food LOss and Waste) as an innovative tool capable of reconstructing, for each commodity, the complex global multi-layered network linking FLW at each stage of the value chain with the corresponding wasted water resources. Food re-exports, nested supply chains, telecoupling of food markets, and different levels of food transformation are taken into account. Focusing on the emblematic case of wheat and its derived food commodities (e.g. flour, bread, pasta), we show the complexity and extent of the FLW-linked water network. For example, in 2016, more than 100 countries used their water resources (almost 3 km3) to produce wheat which was ultimately lost or wasted along the food consumption value chain in Italy, with almost half of this amount being directly attributable to the bread value chain. On the supply side, we show that about 18.3 km3 of water resources in the U.S. were lost through wheat-related FLW in 144 countries, about 40% for flour, 27% for raw wheat (mainly used for feed), and 24% for bread. The NETFLOW model proves useful in unravelling the complex links between (i) product-specific global trade networks, (ii) primary and derived products, (iii) country- and stage-dependent FLW, and (iv) country- and product-specific virtual water content.
An overview on recent approaches on drying of natural rubber materials
Authors: Mathew Benphil C , Marshal S Joseph John , Palanisamy Sivasubramanian , Ayrilmis Nadir 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Natural rubber (Hevea brasiliensis) is generally a product of tropical countries such as Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia. Due to its excellent physical properties, it is a widely used material in various industries, including tyre automotive, construction and medical. Natural rubber is often manufactured in wet form and must be dried to remove excess moisture and improve its mechanical properties. There are several methods for drying natural rubber, including vacuum drying, air drying, freeze drying and microwave drying. Microwave drying is a relatively new and promising method for drying natural rubber. This technology uses electromagnetic radiation in the microwave range to generate heat in the material, causing the moisture to evaporate. Microwave drying offers several advantages over traditional drying methods, including faster drying times, lower energy consumption and improved product quality. The natural rubber drying process is a complex process that consists of several factors such as humidity, temperature and drying time. Microwave drying is no exception and requires careful optimization of the process parameters to achieve optimal drying results. Research is currently underway to study the effects of microwave drying on natural rubber properties, including the physical, mechanical, chemical and thermal properties of the material. In this context, the article aims to provide an overview of the natural rubber drying process, with a particular focus on microwave drying. The article reviews the literature on the use of microwave drying for natural rubber and highlights the advantages and limitations of this method. The post also discusses the factors affecting the microwave drying process and their impact on the quality of the dried natural rubber. Finally, the paper identifies the gaps in our understanding of microwave drying of natural rubber and suggests potential areas for future research.
Agro waste reinforcement of metal matrix composites, a veritable sustainable engineering achievement, or an effort in futility? A critical review
Authors: Ben Festus , Olubambi Peter A 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
The utilization of agro waste as reinforcement in metal matrix composites (MMCs) has sparked interest regarding its feasibility and sustainability in engineering practices. Compared to synthetic reinforcements, its efficacy as a potentially cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative has been explored by diverse studies. This review critically examines existing literature on agro waste-based reinforced MMCs, evaluating experimental findings on mechanical, tribological, density, and corrosion performance from a sustainable engineering perspective. Furthermore, it explores the innovative strategy of employing multi-component metal matrix composites to fabricate composites with improved performance attributes. The utilization of multi-component reinforcements has the capability to tackle issues like the challenge of disproportionate reduction in ductility and toughness peculiar to monolithic and hybrid MMCs. Despite promising results in some studies, numerous unexplored research areas and gaps remain, emphasizing the need for further investigation to provide valuable guidance for future research and development of agro waste in sustainable engineering applications.
Effect of current density on the morphology and electrochemical properties of nanotubular TiO2 for implant applications
Authors: Le Van Toan , Ta Quoc Tuan , Pham Vuong-Hung 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
This study focuses on investigating the influence of current density (i) (A/dm2) at values of 0.5 A dm−2, 1.0 A dm−2 1.5 A dm−2, and 2.0 A/dm2 on the surface structure of nanotubular titanium dioxide (TiO2) in an ethylene glycol solvent containing a certain amount of fluoride salt and water. The surface structure observed via FESEM images reveals that different current densities yield different nanotubular TiO2 structures, predominantly in the form of anatase TiO2 crystals. EIS and CV measurements indicate that at a current density of i = 1.5 A dm−2, the nanotubular TiO2 layer exhibits corrosion resistance performance up to 90.06% compared to the bare titanium (Ti) samples. Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) demonstrates enhanced attachment of BHK cells on anodized titanium surfaces compared to unmodified controls. These findings suggest that nanotubular TiO2 presents a biocompatible material with promising potential for biomedical implant applications.
Capacitance modeling, simulation and RF characterization of horizontal floating gate field effect transistor (H-FGFET) for gas sensing application
Authors: Babbar Divya , Garg Neha , Kabra Sneha 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
In this paper, physics-based capacitance model has been developed for horizontal floating gate field effect transistor (H-FGFET). The horizontal design of floating gate (FG) FET allows detection of large gas molecules like nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulphur dioxide (SO2), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), carbon dioxide (CO2) etc. In order to validate the proposed model, the device has been designed using Sentaurus TCAD simulator and results have been validated with experimental data. Different electrical parameters such as transfer characteristics, switching ratio, output characteristics, threshold voltage, drain induced barrier lowering (DIBL), C-V characteristics, transconductance, output conductance and RF characteristics of the device have been analyzed at room temperature. The simulation result shows that increase in channel length of H-FGFET results in decreased leakage current, improved switching performance, increased gate capacitance and reduced DIBL. The comparative analysis of H-FGFET with previously reported floating gate FET structures reveal that proposed device offers highest switching ratio. The RF characteristics of H-FGFET illustrates that proposed device can operate efficiently as an amplifier for the frequency range of 0.1 GHz to 100 GHz. Further, the proposed device has also been tested for the detection of nitrogen dioxide gas and results reveal that with increase in operating temperature from 30 °C to 180 °C the leakage current of the device increases from 10−13 to 10−9 and OFF current sensitivity of the proposed sensor changes by 82% on changing the work function of sensing layer from 50 meV to 250 meV.
Mechanical and vibration characteristics of hybrid natural fibre-reinforced composite using taguchi grey relational analysis
Authors: Pitchumani Shenbaga Velu , Suthenthiraveerappa Vimalanand , Gopalan Venkatachalam , Loganathan T G , Narasingamurthi Kulasekaran , Sampath Aravindh 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
In recent scenarios, the need for lightweight components in aerospace and safety applications results in the formation of new composite materials. The current investigation mainly emphasized the influence of a multi-wall carbon nanotube (0, 0.5 and 1 wt%) with different wt% of natural banana fibre (0, 3 and 6 wt%) / three different resins (Epoxy, Vinylester and General purpose) reinforced in composite using Taguchi’s L9 approach. Tensile, impact and impulsive excitation strengths (Youngs Modulus, Shear Modulus and Poisson’s ratio) are performed to predict the mechanical characteristics of the reinforced composites. ASTM standards are followed for preparation and testing. The outcomes illustrate that the mechanical characteristics are improved by the inclusion of 1 wt% CNT and 6 wt% of banana fibre reinforced in epoxy resin with an increase in impact strength of 5.41 kJ m−2, a tensile strength of 11.25 MPa, Young’s Modulus of 3.54 GPa and Poisson’s ratio of 0.404 when compared to the other composition. The optimal process constraints are found using Hybrid Taguchi-Grey Relationship Analysis. The experiments are carried out using the L9 orthogonal matrix. The results show that experimental trial no 3 could give optimized output. To evaluate the outcomes of the Taguchi optimization and analysis of variance, experimental trials are also carried out. This research aims to increase the strength of the industrial helmet by using this combination.
EU Institutions and Their Role in Food Policy and Law Making
Authors: Schebesta Hanna , Purnhagen Kai 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
This chapter outlines the main EU institutional actors and their role in policy and law making, including their legal foundations and their institutional constraints with a focus on food law (section 3.2). It distinguishes between distinct trajectories in which food law is made, discussing the involved institutions and their respective roles in the relevant procedures for passing EU legal acts (sections 3.2 and 3.3). This covers legislative and non-legislative acts (delegated and implementing acts) and highlights the role of the European Commission and technical aspects of the committee procedure under Regulation (EU) 182/2011 (section 3.3.5). The chapter concludes with a reflection on the institutional design with respect to food law (section 3.4).
Official Controls Regulation and Food Law Enforcement
Authors: Schebesta Hanna , Purnhagen Kai 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
This chapter elaborates on the main public enforcement rules in EU food law. It covers the general provisions under the General Food Law Regulation (GFLR) (section 6.2), which establishes a dual system of compliance control by food business operators and enforcement by Member States. The chapter further analyses the specific legal framework of the Official Controls Regulation (OCR) (section 6.3), which establishes rules for controlling compliance with the Union agri-food chain legislation, including compliance by food business operators, official controls on animals and goods, and requirements on how to sanction non-compliance. The chapter concludes with a reflection on the relevance of enhanced market surveillance to complement reactive control mechanisms (section 6.4).
What Is Humane Philosophy and Why Is It at Risk?
Authors: Cottingham John 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThe chapter discusses the increasing prevalence of a science-inspired model of philosophy as a series of technical research specialities, and asks how it came about. A survey of the successive phases of twentieth-century philosophy leads to a critique of two influential conceptions of the philosophical enterprise: ‘analysis’ on the one hand and ‘theory tested against intuitions’ on the other. Both these, it is argued, face serious limitations if they are taken to define the boundaries of legitimate philosophizing. There is a need for a philosophy that is less fragmented, aiming for a broad synoptic conception of the world and our place within it. We need to develop a more humane philosophy, synthetic in its methods, synoptic in its scope, culturally and historically aware in its outlook, and open to multiple resonances of meaning that come from the affective as well as the cognitive domains.
Integrity and Fragmentation
Authors: Cottingham John 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThis chapter discusses the virtue of integrity as central to a worthwhile life. It is argued that a fragmented or compartmentalized life is always subject to instability, in so far as unresolved psychological tensions may threaten to derail our ethical projects. Achieving an integrated life requires self-awareness; and (drawing on insights from the psychoanalytic tradition) it is suggested that this is not a simple matter but requires a complex process of self-discovery. The chapter’s final section argues that, although necessary for the good life, integrity cannot be sufficient. Against the influential views of Bernard Williams and Harry Frankfurt, it is maintained that our commitment to our chosen projects, however authentic, is not enough to give our lives meaning and value. A good and meaningful life cannot depend on authenticity alone, but requires us to bring our projects into line with objective values that we did not create and cannot alter.
Religion and the Mystery of Existence
Authors: Cottingham John 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThis chapter focuses on that remarkable yet perplexing aspect of our human nature, its restless longing for something that will heal our alienation and provide our lives with a sense of meaning and completion. This hunger for meaning cannot be dissolved simply by positing God as the putative cause of the cosmos: the authentic religious response is not to try to assuage our explanatory hunger by invoking God, but to feel awe before a mystery beyond the grasp of the finite human mind. In reply to the philosopher David Cooper’s challenge, to show how a ‘doctrine of mystery’ can have any clear propositional content, it is argued that our experience of the wonders of nature, the creative arts, and the insistent demands of morality, provide glimpses of the divine nature—intimations of the transcendent that shine through from the ineffable source of our being to the human world we inhabit.
From Desire to Encounter
Authors: Cottingham John 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThis chapter begins with the journey towards the infinite that is traced out in Descartes’s Meditations. Drawing on Emmanuel Levinas’s construal of the argument in the Third Meditation, it is argued that Descartes’s reflections on God as infinite can be a starting point for deepening our understanding of the religious quest—the paradoxical human search for that which, by its very nature, is incomprehensible to the human mind. The second half of the chapter argues that this search is from first to last structured by desire and longing, and that something prima facie non-cognitive and non-epistemic, namely the desire for God, has a cognitive and epistemic role to play. Perhaps desire can be our human way, or a human way, whereby we can (in Descartes’s words) ‘in a certain manner attain to’ the infinite perfection that is God.