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Keywords = periodic composite materials

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32 pages, 4273 KiB  
Review
Efficient Approaches to the Design of Six-Membered Polyazacyclic Compounds—Part 1: Aromatic Frameworks
by Elena A. Gyrgenova, Yuliya Y. Titova and Andrey V. Ivanov
Molecules 2025, 30(15), 3264; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30153264 - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
This review summarises the possible applications and basic methodologies for the synthesis of six-membered polyazo heterocycles, namely, diazines, triazines, and tetrazines. The time period covered by the analysed works ranges from the beginning of the 20th century to the present day. This period [...] Read more.
This review summarises the possible applications and basic methodologies for the synthesis of six-membered polyazo heterocycles, namely, diazines, triazines, and tetrazines. The time period covered by the analysed works ranges from the beginning of the 20th century to the present day. This period was chosen because it was during this time that synthetic chemistry, as defined by physicochemical research methods, became capable of solving such complex problems as efficiently as possible. The first part of the review describes the applications of polyazo heterocyclic compounds, whose frameworks are found in the composition of drugs, dyes, and functional molecules for materials chemistry, as well as in a wide variety of natural compounds and their synthetic analogues. The review also systematises the methods for assembling six-membered aromatic polyazo heterocycles, including intramolecular and sequential cyclisation, which determine the possible structural and functional diversity based on the presence and arrangement of nitrogen atoms and the position of the corresponding substituents. Full article
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18 pages, 2085 KiB  
Article
Static Analysis of Composite Plates with Periodic Curvatures in Material Using Navier Method
by Ozlem Vardar, Zafer Kutug and Ayse Erdolen
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(15), 8634; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15158634 (registering DOI) - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Fiber-reinforced and laminated composite materials, widely used in engineering applications, may develop periodic curvature during manufacturing due to technological requirements. Given such curvatures in widely used composites, static and dynamic analyses of plates and shells under loads, along with related stability issues, have [...] Read more.
Fiber-reinforced and laminated composite materials, widely used in engineering applications, may develop periodic curvature during manufacturing due to technological requirements. Given such curvatures in widely used composites, static and dynamic analyses of plates and shells under loads, along with related stability issues, have been extensively investigated. However, studies focusing specifically on the static analysis of such materials remain limited. Composite materials with structural curvature exhibit complex mechanical behavior, making their analysis particularly challenging. Predicting their mechanical response is crucial in engineering. In response to this need, the present study conducts a static analysis of plates made of periodically curved composite materials using the Navier method. The plate equations were derived based on the Kirchhoff–Love plate theory within the framework of the Continuum Theory proposed by Akbarov and Guz’. Using the Navier method, deflection, stress, and moment distributions were obtained at every point of the plate. Numerical results were computed using MATLAB. After verifying the convergence and accuracy of the developed MATLAB code by comparing it with existing solutions for rectangular homogeneous isotropic and laminated composite plates, results were obtained for periodically curved plates. This study offers valuable insights that may guide future research, as it employs the Navier method to provide an analytical solution framework. This study contributes to the limited literature with a novel evaluation of the static analysis of composite plates with periodic curvature. Full article
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17 pages, 6856 KiB  
Article
Selection of Optimal Parameters for Chemical Well Treatment During In Situ Leaching of Uranium Ores
by Kuanysh Togizov, Zhiger Kenzhetaev, Akerke Muzapparova, Shyngyskhan Bainiyazov, Diar Raushanbek and Yuliya Yaremkiv
Minerals 2025, 15(8), 811; https://doi.org/10.3390/min15080811 - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 168
Abstract
The aim of this study was to improve the efficiency of in situ uranium leaching by developing a specialized methodology for selecting rational parameters for the chemical treatment of production wells. This approach was designed to enhance the filtration properties of ores and [...] Read more.
The aim of this study was to improve the efficiency of in situ uranium leaching by developing a specialized methodology for selecting rational parameters for the chemical treatment of production wells. This approach was designed to enhance the filtration properties of ores and extend the uninterrupted operation period of wells, considering the clay content of the productive horizon, the geological characteristics of the ore-bearing layer, and the composition of precipitation-forming materials. The mineralogical characteristics of ore and precipitate samples formed during the in situ leaching of uranium under various mining and geological conditions at a uranium deposit in the Syrdarya depression were identified using an X-ray diffraction analysis. It was established that ores of the Santonian stage are relatively homogeneous and consist mainly of quartz. During well operation, the precipitates formed are predominantly gypsum, which has little impact on the filtration properties of the ore. Ores of the Maastrichtian stage are less homogeneous and mainly composed of quartz and smectite, with minor amounts of potassium feldspar and kaolinite. The leaching of these ores results in the formation of gypsum with quartz impurities, which gradually reduces the filtration properties of the ore. Ores of the Campanian stage are heterogeneous, consisting mainly of quartz with varying proportions of clay minerals and gypsum. The leaching of these ores generates a variety of precipitates that significantly reduce the filtration properties of the productive horizon. Effective compositions and concentrations of decolmatant (clog removal) solutions were selected under laboratory conditions using a specially developed methodology and a TESCAN MIRA scanning electron microscope. Based on a scanning electron microscope analysis of the samples, the effectiveness of a decolmatizing solution based on hydrochloric and hydrofluoric acids (taking into account the concentration of the acids in the solution) was established for the destruction of precipitate formation during the in situ leaching of uranium. Geological blocks were ranked by their clay content to select rational parameters of decolmatant solutions for the efficient enhancement of ore filtration properties and the prevention of precipitation formation. Pilot-scale testing of the selected decolmatant parameters under various mining and geological conditions allowed the optimal chemical treatment parameters to be determined based on the clay content and the composition of precipitates in the productive horizon. An analysis of pilot well trials using the new approach showed an increase in the uninterrupted operational period of wells by 30%–40% under average mineral acid concentrations and by 25%–45% under maximum concentrations with surfactant additives in complex geological settings. As a result, an effective methodology for ranking geological blocks based on their ore clay content and precipitate composition was developed to determine the rational parameters of decolmatant solutions, enabling a maximized filtration performance and an extended well service life. This makes it possible to reduce the operating costs of extraction, control the geotechnological parameters of uranium well mining, and improve the efficiency of the in situ leaching of uranium under complex mining and geological conditions. Additionally, the approach increases the environmental and operational safety during uranium ore leaching intensification. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Mineral Processing and Extractive Metallurgy)
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25 pages, 6464 KiB  
Article
Eco-Friendly Sandwich Panels for Energy-Efficient Façades
by Susana P. B. Sousa, Helena C. Teixeira, Giorgia Autretto, Valeria Villamil Cárdenas, Stefano Fantucci, Fabio Favoino, Pamela Voigt, Mario Stelzmann, Robert Böhm, Gabriel Beltrán, Nicolás Escribano, Belén Hernández-Gascón, Matthias Tietze and Andreia Araújo
Sustainability 2025, 17(15), 6848; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17156848 - 28 Jul 2025
Viewed by 255
Abstract
To meet the European Green Deal targets, the construction sector must improve building thermal performance via advanced insulation systems. Eco-friendly sandwich panels offer a promising solution. Therefore, this work aims to develop and validate a new eco-friendly composite sandwich panel (basalt fibres and [...] Read more.
To meet the European Green Deal targets, the construction sector must improve building thermal performance via advanced insulation systems. Eco-friendly sandwich panels offer a promising solution. Therefore, this work aims to develop and validate a new eco-friendly composite sandwich panel (basalt fibres and recycled extruded polystyrene) with enhanced multifunctionality for lightweight and energy-efficient building façades. Two panels were produced via vacuum infusion—a reference panel and a multifunctional panel incorporating phase change materials (PCMs) and silica aerogels (AGs). Their performance was evaluated through lab-based thermal and acoustic tests, numerical simulations, and on-site monitoring in a living laboratory. The test results from all methods were consistent. The PCM-AG panel showed 16% lower periodic thermal transmittance (0.16 W/(m2K) vs. 0.19 W/(m2K)) and a 92% longer time shift (4.26 h vs. 2.22 h), indicating improved thermal inertia. It also achieved a single-number sound insulation rating of 38 dB. These findings confirm the panel’s potential to reduce operational energy demand and support long-term climate goals. Full article
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24 pages, 56885 KiB  
Article
Bio-Crafting Architecture: Experiences of Growing Mycelium in Minimal Surface Molds
by Anca-Simona Horvath, Alina Elena Voinea and Radu Adrian Arieșan
Sustainability 2025, 17(15), 6835; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17156835 - 28 Jul 2025
Viewed by 384
Abstract
Mycelium is a living material that has gained popularity over the last decade in both architecture and design. Apart from understanding the physical behaviour of novel materials, it is also important to grasp how designers and the general audience perceive them. On the [...] Read more.
Mycelium is a living material that has gained popularity over the last decade in both architecture and design. Apart from understanding the physical behaviour of novel materials, it is also important to grasp how designers and the general audience perceive them. On the one hand, this study investigated mycelium growth in 3D-printed minimal surface shapes using a wood-based filament, and on the other hand, it examined how both designers and the general public experience interacting with mycelium. Using a material-driven design research method, a workshop with architecture students was conducted where various triply periodic minimal surfaces were designed and 3D printed. These shapes were used as molds and impregnated with mycelium, and the growth of mycelium was analyzed visually and photographically. Data on the experiences of the 30 workshop participants of working with mycelium was collected through a survey and analyzed qualitatively. After exhibiting results of the workshop in a public-facing exhibition, semi-structured interviews with members of the general public about their perceptions of mycelium were conducted. Three-dimensionally printed minimal surfaces with wood-based filaments can function as structural cores for mycelium-based composites, and the density of the minimal surface appears to influence mycelium growth, which binds to wood-based filaments. Students exhibited stronger feelings for living materials compared to non-living ones, displaying both biophilia and, to a lesser extent, biophobia. Introducing hands-on workshops with living and experimental materials in design studio settings can help future generations of designers develop sensibilities for, and a critical approach towards, the impact of their design decisions on the environment and sustainability. The study also contributes empirical data on how members of the general public perceive mycelium as a material for design. Full article
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22 pages, 5703 KiB  
Article
Voxel-Based Asymptotic Homogenization of the Effective Thermal Properties of Lattice Materials with Generic Bravais Lattice Symmetry
by Padmassun Rajakareyar, Hamza Abo El Ella and Mostafa S. A. ElSayed
Symmetry 2025, 17(8), 1197; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym17081197 - 27 Jul 2025
Viewed by 194
Abstract
In this paper, voxel-based Asymptotic Homogenization (AH) is employed to calculate the thermal expansion and thermal conductivity characteristics of lattice materials that have a Representative Volume Element (RVE) with non-orthogonal periodic bases. The non-orthogonal RVE of the cellular lattice is discretized using voxel [...] Read more.
In this paper, voxel-based Asymptotic Homogenization (AH) is employed to calculate the thermal expansion and thermal conductivity characteristics of lattice materials that have a Representative Volume Element (RVE) with non-orthogonal periodic bases. The non-orthogonal RVE of the cellular lattice is discretized using voxel elements (iso-parametric hexahedral element, on a cartesian grid). A homogenization framework is developed in python that uses a fast-nearest neighbor algorithm to approximate the (non-orthogonal) periodic boundary conditions of the discretized RVE. Validation studies are performed where results of the homogenized Thermal Expansion Coefficient (TEC) and thermal conduction performed in this paper are compared with results generated by commercially available software. These included comparison with the results for (a) bi-material unidirectional composite with orthogonal RVE cell envelope; (b) bi-material hexagon lattice with orthogonal cell envelope; (c) bi-material hexagon lattice with non-orthogonal cell envelope; and (d) bi-material square lattice. A novel approach of visualizing the contribution of each voxel towards the individual terms within the homogenized thermal conductivity matrix is presented, which is necessary to mitigate any potential errors arising from the numerical model. Additionally, the effect of the thermal expansion and thermal conductivity for bi-material hexagon lattice (orthogonal and non-orthogonal RVE cell envelope) are presented for varying internal cell angles and all permutations of material assignments for a relative density of 0.3. It is found that when comparing the non-orthogonal RVE with the Orthogonal RVE as a reference model, the numerical error due to approximating the periodic boundary condition for the non-orthogonal bi-material hexagon is generally less than 2% as the numerical error is pseudo-cyclically dependent on the discretization along the cartesian axis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Engineering and Materials)
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31 pages, 8031 KiB  
Article
Study on the Mechanical Properties of Coal Gangue Materials Used in Coal Mine Underground Assembled Pavement
by Jiang Xiao, Yulin Wang, Tongxiaoyu Wang, Yujiang Liu, Yihui Wang and Boyuan Zhang
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(15), 8180; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15158180 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 192
Abstract
To address the limitations of traditional hardened concrete road surfaces in coal mine tunnels, which are prone to damage and entail high maintenance costs, this study proposes using modular concrete blocks composed of fly ash and coal gangue as an alternative to conventional [...] Read more.
To address the limitations of traditional hardened concrete road surfaces in coal mine tunnels, which are prone to damage and entail high maintenance costs, this study proposes using modular concrete blocks composed of fly ash and coal gangue as an alternative to conventional materials. These blocks offer advantages including ease of construction and rapid, straightforward maintenance, while also facilitating the reuse of substantial quantities of solid waste, thereby mitigating resource wastage and environmental pollution. Initially, the mineral composition of the raw materials was analyzed, confirming that although the physical and chemical properties of Liangshui Well coal gangue are slightly inferior to those of natural crushed stone, they still meet the criteria for use as concrete aggregate. For concrete blocks incorporating 20% fly ash, the steam curing process was optimized with a recommended static curing period of 16–24 h, a temperature ramp-up rate of 20 °C/h, and a constant temperature of 50 °C maintained for 24 h to ensure optimal performance. Orthogonal experimental analysis revealed that fly ash content exerted the greatest influence on the compressive strength of concrete, followed by the additional water content, whereas the aggregate particle size had a comparatively minor effect. The optimal mix proportion was identified as 20% fly ash content, a maximum aggregate size of 20 mm, and an additional water content of 70%. Performance testing indicated that the fabricated blocks exhibited a compressive strength of 32.1 MPa and a tensile strength of 2.93 MPa, with strong resistance to hydrolysis and sulfate attack, rendering them suitable for deployment in weakly alkaline underground environments. Considering the site-specific conditions of the Liangshuijing coal mine, ANSYS 2020 was employed to simulate and analyze the mechanical behavior of the blocks under varying loads, thicknesses, and dynamic conditions. The findings suggest that hexagonal coal gangue blocks with a side length of 20 cm and a thickness of 16 cm meet the structural requirements of most underground mine tunnels, offering a reference model for cost-effective paving and efficient roadway maintenance in coal mines. Full article
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43 pages, 5707 KiB  
Article
Jewish Presence in the Land of Israel in the 19th Century: Insights from the Montefiore Censuses
by Raquel Levy-Toledano, Wim Penninx and Sergio DellaPergola
Genealogy 2025, 9(3), 72; https://doi.org/10.3390/genealogy9030072 - 17 Jul 2025
Viewed by 1596
Abstract
This article presents a new evaluation and analysis of the five censuses undertaken at the initiative of philanthropist Sir Moses Montefiore among the Jewish population of Palestine/the Land of Israel between 1839 and 1875. The main purpose of the censuses was to ascertain [...] Read more.
This article presents a new evaluation and analysis of the five censuses undertaken at the initiative of philanthropist Sir Moses Montefiore among the Jewish population of Palestine/the Land of Israel between 1839 and 1875. The main purpose of the censuses was to ascertain the composition and needs of a generally poor Jewish population in order to better provide to its welfare. The information collected concerned basic demographic characteristics, countries of origin—namely along the main divide of Ashkenazi and Sephardi/Mizrahi Jews—and periods of immigration, social composition, and religiosity. By combining the different censuses into an integrated database, the authors are able to show changes intervening over time not only regarding the aggregate population, but also concerning individual and household profiles. The data aggregation allows us to better understanding the material conditions of the Jewish population and to outline with greater accuracy the relationship between socio-cultural communities and socio-economic stratification. The analysis unveiled the patterns of Jewish immigration all along the surveyed period and its variations by size and by countries of origin. These data provide important evidence concerning the overall Jewish presence in the Land of Israel and demonstrate that immigration was a significant factor well before the formal beginning of Aliyah in the early 1880s. No such analysis of the whole set of Montefiore censuses had been performed previously. The findings will prove very useful to historians and social scientists in their further investigation of the area and its populations in the 19th century. Full article
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17 pages, 1516 KiB  
Article
The Effect of Different Detox Drinks on Surface Roughness, Colour Change, and Translucency Parameters of Universal Resin Composites
by Ayşenur Bulut, Ayşe İrem Yetiş, Serra Yaren Yeşil, Sinem Akgül and Oya Bala
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(14), 7946; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15147946 - 17 Jul 2025
Viewed by 267
Abstract
In this study, three different detox drinks were examined for their effects on the surface roughness, colour change (∆E00), and transparency parameters (∆TP00) of universal resin composites. One hundred twenty samples were prepared, thirty each of universal resin composites [...] Read more.
In this study, three different detox drinks were examined for their effects on the surface roughness, colour change (∆E00), and transparency parameters (∆TP00) of universal resin composites. One hundred twenty samples were prepared, thirty each of universal resin composites (Omnichroma, OptiShade, Filtek Ultimate Universal, and Essentia Universal). Initial values were measured. The samples were randomly divided into three subgroups and exposed to the detox drinks. Measurements were repeated after 7, 14, and 28 days of exposure to detox drinks. The highest average surface roughness values in detox drinks were obtained with Essentia Universal. It was found that average surface roughness values increased over time, and there was a significant difference between the average surface roughness values obtained during the measurement periods (p < 0.05). In all detox drinks, the lowest ∆E00 values were obtained on days 7 and 14 with OM, while the highest ∆E00 values were obtained on day 28. There was a significant difference in the ∆E00 values of the universal resin composites tested at each time point (p < 0.05). The highest ∆TP00 values were obtained from OM in all periods and all detox drinks, while the lowest ∆TP00 values were obtained from FU. When the effects of resin composites, detox drinks, and time on ∆TP00 were analysed, a statistically significant difference was found (p < 0.05). Manufacturers recommend using detox drinks for 28 days. However, this period of use may affect the surface properties of restorative materials. Based on these data, we recommend careful use of detox drinks to prevent adverse effects on restorative materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Applied Dentistry and Oral Sciences)
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22 pages, 3439 KiB  
Article
Metabolomics Analysis Reveals the Influence Mechanism of Different Growth Years on the Growth, Metabolism and Accumulation of Medicinal Components of Bupleurum scorzonerifolium Willd. (Apiaceae)
by Jialin Sun, Jianhao Wu, Weinan Li, Xiubo Liu and Wei Ma
Biology 2025, 14(7), 864; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14070864 - 16 Jul 2025
Viewed by 225
Abstract
Bupleurum scorzonerifolium Willd. is a perennial herbaceous plant of the genus Bupleurum in the Apiaceae family. Also known as red Bupleurum, it is mainly distributed in Northeast China, North China and other regions and is a commonly used medicinal plant. It is [...] Read more.
Bupleurum scorzonerifolium Willd. is a perennial herbaceous plant of the genus Bupleurum in the Apiaceae family. Also known as red Bupleurum, it is mainly distributed in Northeast China, North China and other regions and is a commonly used medicinal plant. It is difficult for the wild plant resources of Bupleurum scorzonerifolium Willd. to meet the market demand. In artificial cultivation, there are problems such as a low yield per plant, low quality, weakened stress resistance and variety degradation. The contents of bioactive components and metabolites in traditional Chinese medicinal materials vary significantly across different growth years. The growth duration directly impacts their quality and clinical efficacy. Therefore, determining the optimal growth period is one of the crucial factors in ensuring the quality of traditional Chinese medicinal materials. In this study, Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) were comprehensively applied to analyze the metabolically differential substances in different parts of Bupleurum scorzonerifolium Willd. By comparing the compositions and content differences of chemical components in different growth years and different parts, the chemical components with significant differences were accurately screened out. In order to further explore the dynamic change characteristics and internal laws of metabolites, a metabolic network was constructed for a visual analysis and, finally, to see the optimal growth years of Bupleurum scorzonerifolium Willd. This result showed that with the accumulation of the growth cycle, the height, root width, fresh mass and saikosaponins content of Bupleurum scorzonerifolium Willd. increased year by year. Except for sodium and calcium elements in the main shoot, the other elements were significantly reduced. In addition, 59 primary metabolites were identified by GC-MS, with the accumulation of the growth cycle, the contents of organic acids, sugars, alcohols and amino acids gradually decreased, while the contents of alkyl, glycosides and other substances gradually increased. There were 53 positive correlations and 18 negative correlations in the triennial Bupleurum scorzonerifolium Willd. grid, all of which were positively correlated with saikosaponins. Therefore, the triennial Bupleurum scorzonerifolium Willd. was considered to be the suitable growth year. It not only provided a new idea and method for the quality evaluation of Bupleurum scorzonerifolium Willd., but also provided a scientific basis for the quality control of Chinese herbs. Full article
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16 pages, 2819 KiB  
Article
High-Strain-Rate Deformation Behavior and Damage Mechanisms of Ti/Al Interpenetrating Phase Composites
by Zhou Li, Zhongli Zhang, Jiahao Tian, Junhao Li, Shiqi Xia, Libo Zhou and Long Yu
Processes 2025, 13(7), 2234; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13072234 - 12 Jul 2025
Viewed by 391
Abstract
Interpenetrating phase composites (IPCs) have demonstrated tremendous potential across various fields, particularly those based on triply periodic minimal surface (TPMS) structures, whose uniquely interwoven lattice architectures have attracted widespread attention. However, current research on the dynamic mechanical properties of such IPC remains limited, [...] Read more.
Interpenetrating phase composites (IPCs) have demonstrated tremendous potential across various fields, particularly those based on triply periodic minimal surface (TPMS) structures, whose uniquely interwoven lattice architectures have attracted widespread attention. However, current research on the dynamic mechanical properties of such IPC remains limited, and their impact resistance and damage mechanisms are yet to be thoroughly understood. In this study, a novel design of two volume fractions of IPCs based on the TPMS IWP configuration is developed using Python-based parametric modeling, with the Ti6Al4V alloy TPMS scaffolds fabricated via selective laser melting (SLM) and the AlSi12 reinforcing phase through infiltration casting. The influence of Ti alloy volume fraction and strain rate on the dynamic mechanical behavior of the Ti/Al IPC is systematically investigated using a split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) experimental setup. Microscopic characterization validates the effectiveness and reliability of the proposed IPC fabrication method. Results show that the increasing Ti alloy volume fraction significantly affects the dynamic mechanical properties of the IPC, and IPCs with different Ti alloy volume fractions exhibit contrasting mechanical behaviors under increasing strain rates, attributed to the dominance of different constituent phases. This study enhances the understanding of the dynamic behavior of TPMS-based IPCs and offers a promising route for the development of high-performance energy-absorbing materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Manufacturing Processes and Systems)
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20 pages, 10170 KiB  
Article
Birds and People in Medieval Bulgaria—A Review of the Subfossil Record of Birds During the First and Second Bulgarian Empires
by Zlatozar Boev
Quaternary 2025, 8(3), 36; https://doi.org/10.3390/quat8030036 - 8 Jul 2025
Viewed by 519
Abstract
For the first time, the numerous scattered data on birds (wild and domestic) have been collected based on their medieval bone remains discovered on the modern territory of the Republic of Bulgaria. The collected information is about a total of 37 medieval settlements [...] Read more.
For the first time, the numerous scattered data on birds (wild and domestic) have been collected based on their medieval bone remains discovered on the modern territory of the Republic of Bulgaria. The collected information is about a total of 37 medieval settlements from the time of the First and Second Bulgarian Empires. Among the settlements studied are both the two medieval Bulgarian capitals (Pliska and Veliki Preslav), as well as other cities, smaller settlements, military fortresses, monasteries, and inhabited caves. The data refer to a total of 48 species of wild birds and 6 forms of domestic birds of 11 avian orders: Accipitriformes, Anseriformes, Ciconiiformes, Columbiformes, Falconiformes, Galliformes, Gruiformes, Otidiformes, Passeriformes, Pelecaniformes, and Strigiformes. The established composition of wild birds amounts to over one tenth (to 11.5%) of the modern avifauna in the country. Five of the established species (10.4%) have disappeared from the modern nesting avifauna of the country—the bearded vulture, the great bustard, the little bustard, the gray crane, and the saker falcon (the latter two species have reappeared as nesters in the past few years). First Bulgarian Empire (681–1018): Investigated settlements—22. Period covered—five centuries (7th to 11th c.). Found in total: at least 44 species/forms of birds, of which 39 species of wild birds and 5 forms of poultry. Second Bulgarian Empire (1185–1396): Investigated settlements—15. Period covered—3 centuries (12th to 14th c.). Found in total: at least 39 species/forms of birds, of which 33 species of wild birds and 6 forms of poultry. The groups of raptors, water, woodland, openland, synanthropic and domestic birds were analyzed separately. The conclusion was made that during the two periods of the Middle Ages, birds had an important role in the material and spiritual life of the population of the Bulgarian lands. Birds were mainly used for food (domestic birds), although some were objects of hunting. No traces of processing were found on the bones. Birds were subjects of works of applied and monumental art. Their images decorated jewelry, tableware, walls of buildings and other structures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quaternary Birds of the Planet of First, Ancient and Modern Humans)
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15 pages, 1100 KiB  
Article
Silage of the By-Products of Mollar de Elche and Wonderful Pomegranate Varieties Preserves Nutritional Value and Antioxidant Activity of Ruminant Feed
by Marina Galvez-Lopez, Jihed Zemzmi, Mihaela Iasmina Madalina Ilea, Francisca Hernández, Martín Rodríguez, José Ramón Díaz and Gema Romero
Fermentation 2025, 11(7), 392; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation11070392 - 8 Jul 2025
Viewed by 553
Abstract
The valorization of agro-industrial by-products for their use in animal feed leads to a reduction in inputs, creating the opportunity to optimize the sustainability of the agri-food chain, a priority of the SDG 2030 strategy; it also leads to a reduction in production [...] Read more.
The valorization of agro-industrial by-products for their use in animal feed leads to a reduction in inputs, creating the opportunity to optimize the sustainability of the agri-food chain, a priority of the SDG 2030 strategy; it also leads to a reduction in production costs. The objective of this study was to examine the changes that occur during the silage process of the pomegranate varieties Mollar de Elche (PDO) and Wonderful in terms of their nutritional and antioxidant characteristics for subsequent use in ruminant feed. Microsilos were created with the by-products of these two different pomegranate varieties. Two different microsilos for each variety were monitored on days 0 (raw material), 14, 35, 60, and 180. The variables studied included microbiology tracks, fermentation products, pH, dry matter (DM), macronutrient composition, organic acid and sugar contents, and antioxidant activity. The results show that, for both varieties, the silage process was successful; the stability of the fermentation process was determined by day 35, and its viability was ensured for a minimum period of 6 months. Furthermore, the nutritional characteristics of the raw material were preserved in the ensiled product. An evaluation of the total phenols and antioxidant capacity (ABTS and DPPH) showed that they remained stable throughout the monitoring period, despite the decrease in bioactive compounds (total phenols) at the end of the study period. It was concluded that silage is an effective preservation method for the by-products of Mollar de Elche and Wonderful pomegranate varieties, and its outcome presents valuable potential as a sustainable nutritional resource for ruminants. Full article
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17 pages, 1946 KiB  
Article
Geographic Influence and Metabolomics-Driven Discovery of 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors in Tectona grandis L.f. (Teak) Leaves
by Nutchaninad Tanuphol, Corine Girard, Prapapan Temkitthawon, Nungruthai Suphrom, Nitra Nuengchamnong, Tongchai Saesong, Kamonlak Insumrong, Abdulaziz Wadeng, Wiyada Khangkhachit, Andy Zedet, Ratchadaree Intayot, Siriporn Jungsuttiwong, Anuchit Plubrukarn, Francois Senejoux and Kornkanok Ingkaninan
Molecules 2025, 30(14), 2895; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30142895 - 8 Jul 2025
Viewed by 392
Abstract
The inhibition of steroid 5-alpha reductase (S5AR), a key mechanism for managing dihydrotestosterone-dependent conditions, has been demonstrated in teak (Tectona grandis L.f.) leaf extracts. Our recent clinical study confirmed the effectiveness of a hair growth formulation containing teak leaf extract in males [...] Read more.
The inhibition of steroid 5-alpha reductase (S5AR), a key mechanism for managing dihydrotestosterone-dependent conditions, has been demonstrated in teak (Tectona grandis L.f.) leaf extracts. Our recent clinical study confirmed the effectiveness of a hair growth formulation containing teak leaf extract in males with androgenic alopecia. However, significant variability in S5AR inhibitory activity among teak leaf samples from different regions underscores the need for quality control of raw materials. This study applied a metabolomics approach to investigate the influence of leaf age, harvesting period, and geographic origin on chemical composition and S5AR inhibitory activity, as well as to identify active S5AR inhibitors. Geographic origin emerged as the primary determinant of variations in chemical profiles and S5AR inhibitory activity. Using orthogonal partial least squares analysis, six diterpenoid S5AR inhibitors were identified, including four compounds reported for the first time as S5AR inhibitors: rhinocerotinoic acid, 7-oxo-8-labden-15-oic acid, 8-hydroxy-labd-13-en-15-oic acid, and a novel diterpene, 7-hydroxy-labd-8,13-dien-15-oic acid. These findings highlight the potential of metabolomics as a powerful tool for discovering bioactive compounds and optimizing raw material selection. By prioritizing proven geographic sources, consistent bioactivity can be achieved, supporting the therapeutic potential of teak leaves in managing S5AR-related conditions. Full article
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15 pages, 1240 KiB  
Article
A Metrological Approach to Developing Quality Testing Standards for Emerging Advanced Materials
by Akira Ono
Metrology 2025, 5(3), 42; https://doi.org/10.3390/metrology5030042 - 8 Jul 2025
Viewed by 234
Abstract
The rapid advancement of materials science is driving the development of emerging advanced materials, such as nanomaterials, composites, biomaterials, and high-performance metals. These materials possess unique properties and offer significant potential for innovative applications across industries. Standardization plays a crucial role in ensuring [...] Read more.
The rapid advancement of materials science is driving the development of emerging advanced materials, such as nanomaterials, composites, biomaterials, and high-performance metals. These materials possess unique properties and offer significant potential for innovative applications across industries. Standardization plays a crucial role in ensuring the reliability, consistency, and comparability of material quality assessments. Although typical material specification standards, which rigidly define allowable characteristic ranges, are well-suited for established materials like steel, they may not be directly applicable to emerging advanced materials due to their novelty and evolving nature. To address this challenge, a distinct approach is required—flexible yet robust testing standards for assessing material quality. This paper introduces scenario-based methodologies, a structured approach to developing such standards, with a particular focus on metrological aspects of measurement methods and procedures. Additionally, self-assessment processes aimed at verifying measurement reliability are integrated into the methodology. These methodologies involve defining target materials and their applications, identifying critical material characteristics, specifying appropriate measurement methods and procedures, and promoting adaptable yet reliable guidelines. To maintain relevance with metrological advancements and evolving market demands, these quality testing standards should undergo periodic review and updates. This approach enhances industrial confidence and facilitates market integration. Full article
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