bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying Critical Indicators in the Evaluation of Third-Party Reverse Logistics Provider Using Best–Worst Method
Authors: Zhang Changlu , Tang Liqian , Zhang Jian
Published: May 2023

Evaluation and selection of a third-party reverse logistics provider (3PRLP) is an important tool for enterprises to improve the level of reverse logistics management. The identification of critical indicators plays a crucial role in the evaluation process. Firstly, on the basis of fully considering the characteristics of 3PRLP evaluation and selection, we summarized 27 evaluation indicators from 5 dimensions—overall operation level, management service level, information technology level, social and ecological benefits, and strategic alliance. Secondly, we adopted the Delphi method to determine the formal evaluation index system, and the best–worst method (BWM) to calculate the weight of each indicator. We determined the critical evaluation indicators on the basis of the weights. Finally, based on our results, corresponding countermeasures and implications regarding the process of 3PRLP evaluation were put forward. The research results show that the critical indicators include transportation allocation capacity, network coverage, service price level, service response speed, recovery efficiency, and service flexibility level.
Advanced Cardiac Imaging in the Assessment of Aortic Stenosis
Authors: Grodecki Kajetan , Warniello Mateusz , Spiewak Mateusz , Kwiecinski Jacek
Published: May 2023

Aortic stenosis is the most common form of valve disease in the Western world and a major healthcare burden. Although echocardiography remains the central modality for the diagnosis and assessment of aortic stenosis, recently, advanced cardiac imaging with cardiovascular magnetic resonance, computed tomography, and positron emission tomography have provided invaluable pathological insights that may guide the personalized management of the disease. In this review, we discuss applications of these novel non-invasive imaging modalities for establishing the diagnosis, monitoring disease progression, and eventually planning the invasive treatment of aortic stenosis.
In Vitro Evaluation of Lithium Disilicate Endocrowns and Post and Core Crowns—A Systematic Review
Authors: Qamar Zeeshan , Alghamdi Ahmed Mohammed Saad , Haydarah Naji Khaled Bin , Balateef Abdulateef Ahmed , Alamoudi Ahmed Aydhah , Abumismar Munther Amer , Mathur Ankita , Minervini Giuseppe
Published: May 2023

The aim of this systematic review was to summarize the results of the studies that have compared the physical and mechanical properties of lithium disilicate (LDS) endocrowns constructed for posterior teeth to those retained by post-and-core retention systems. The review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. The electronic search process was conducted on PubMed-Medline, Scopus, Embase and ISI Web of Knowledge (WoS) from the earliest available date till 31 January 2023. Additionally, the studies were assessed for their overall quality and risk of bias using the Quality Assessment Tool For In Vitro Studies (the QUIN). The initial search resulted in 291 articles, out of which, only 10 studies met the eligibility criteria. In all studies LDS endocrowns were compared with various kinds of endodontic posts and crowns made from other materials. There were no definite pattern or trends observed in the fracture strengths of tested specimens. There was no predilection observed in failure patters among the experimental specimens. No predilection was observed in the fracture strengths of LDS endocrowns when compared to post-and-core crowns. Furthermore, no differences in failure patterns could be observed when both types of restorations were compared. The authors propose standardized testing of endocrowns against post-and-core crowns in future studies. In conclusion, long-term clinical trials are advocated to compare the survival, failure and complication rates of LDS endocrowns and post-and-core restorations.
Distinct Roles of Ena ATP Family Proteins in Sodium Accumulation, Invasive Growth, and Full Virulence in Colletotrichum gloeosporioides
Authors: Deng Tian-Ci , Yang Ji-Yun , Sun Mei-Ling , Zhang Yun-Zhao , Pan Yun-Ting , Huang Lin
Published: May 2023

Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, a significant fungal pathogen of crops and trees, causes large economic losses worldwide. However, its pathogenic mechanism remains totally unclear. In this study, four Ena ATPases (Exitus natru-type adenosine triphosphatases), homology of yeast Ena proteins, were identified in C. gloeosporioides. Gene deletion mutants of ΔCgena1, ΔCgena2, ΔCgena3, and ΔCgena4 were obtained through the method of gene replacement. First, a subcellular localization pattern indicated that CgEna1 and CgEna4 were localized in the plasma membrane, while the CgEna2 and CgEna3 were distributed in the endoparasitic reticulum. Next, it was found that CgEna1 and CgEna4 were required for sodium accumulation in C. gloeosporioides. CgEna3 was required for extracellular ion stress of sodium and potassium. CgEna1 and CgEna3 were involved in conidial germination, appressorium formation, invasive hyphal development, and full virulence. The mutant of ΔCgena4 was more sensitive to the conditions of high concentrations of ion and the alkaline. Together, these results indicated that CgEna ATPase proteins have distinct roles in sodium accumulation, stress resistance, and full virulence in C. gloeosporioides.
Fungal Gut Microbiome in Myasthenia Gravis: A Sub-Analysis of the MYBIOM Study
Authors: Verhasselt Hedda Luise , Ramakrishnan Elakiya , Schlag Melina , Marchesi Julian R , Buer Jan , Kleinschnitz Christoph , Hagenacker Tim , Totzeck Andreas
Published: May 2023

An altered gut microbiota is a possible contributing pathogenic factor in myasthenia gravis (MG), an autoimmune neuromuscular disease. However, the significance of the fungal microbiome is an understudied and neglected part of the intestinal microbiome in MG. We performed a sub-analysis of the MYBIOM study including faecal samples from patients with MG (n = 41), non-inflammatory neurological disorder (NIND, n = 18), chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP, n = 6) and healthy volunteers (n = 12) by sequencing the internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2). Fungal reads were obtained in 51 out of 77 samples. No differences were found in alpha-diversity indices computed between the MG, NIND, CIDP and HV groups, indicating an unaltered fungal diversity and structure. Overall, four mould species (Penicillium aurantiogriseum, Mycosphaerella tassiana, Cladosporium ramonetellum and Alternaria betae-kenyensis) and five yeast species (Candida. albicans, Candida. sake, Candida. dubliniensis, Pichia deserticola and Kregervanrija delftensis) were identified. Besides one MG patient with abundant Ca. albicans, no prominent dysbiosis in the MG group of the mycobiome was found. Not all fungal sequences within all groups were successfully assigned, so further sub-analysis was withdrawn, limiting robust conclusions.
An Adaptive Algorithm and Additively Manufactured Punch Used to Form Aluminum Sheet Metal Parts
Authors: Ciubotariu Vlad Andrei , Grigoras Cosmin Constantin , Zichil Valentin , Rosu Ana-Maria
Published: May 2023

Self-adaptive mechanisms are gaining momentum in industrial processes. It is understandable that as the complexity increases, the human work must be augmented. Considering this, the authors have developed one such solution for the punch-forming process, using additive manufacturing, i.e., a 3D-printed punch, to draw into shape 6061-T6 aluminum sheets. This paper aims to highlight the topological study used to optimize the punch form shape, the methodology of the 3D printing process, and the material used. For the adaptive algorithm, a complex Python-to-C++ bridge was created. It was necessary as the script has computer vision (used for calculating stroke and speed), punch force, and hydraulic pressure measurement capabilities. The algorithm uses the input data to control its subsequent actions. Two approaches are used in this experimental paper, a pre-programmed direction and an adaptive one, for comparison purposes. The results, namely the drawing radius and flange angle, were statistically analyzed using the ANOVA methodology for significance. The results indicate significant improvements when using the adaptive algorithm.
Corrosion Stiction in Automotive Braking Systems
Authors: Motta Michele , Fedrizzi Lorenzo , Andreatta Francesco
Published: May 2023

This review paper targets the corrosion-stiction phenomenon that can occur in automotive braking systems under static conditions in aggressive environments. The corrosion of gray cast iron discs can lead to a strong adhesion of the brake pad at the pad/disc interface that can impair the reliability and performance of the braking system. The main constituents of friction materials are initially reviewed in order to highlight the complexity of a brake pad. Corrosion-related phenomena, including stiction and stick-slip, are considered in detail to discuss the complex effect of the chemical and physical properties of friction materials on these phenomena. In addition, testing methods to evaluate the susceptibility to corrosion stiction are reviewed in this work. Electrochemical methods, including potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, are useful tools for a better understanding of corrosion stiction. The development of friction materials with low susceptibility to stiction should follow a complementary approach targeting an accurate selection of the constituents, control of local conditions at the pad–disc interface, and the use of specific additives or surface treatments to reduce the corrosion susceptibility of gray cast-iron rotors.
A Novel Method for the Fabrication of Antibacterial Stainless Steel with Uniform Silver Dispersions by Silver Nanoparticle/Polyethyleneimine Composites
Authors: Chih Yu-Kun , You Jhu-Lin , Lin Wei-Hsuan , Chang Yen-Hao , Tseng Chun-Chieh , Ger Ming-Der
Published: May 2023

Only a few studies have so far focused on the addition of silver to SS316L alloys by conventional sintering methods. Unfortunately, the metallurgical process of silver-containing antimicrobial SS is greatly limited due to the extremely low solubility of silver in iron and its tendency to precipitate at the grain boundaries, resulting in an inhomogeneous distribution of the antimicrobial phase and loss of antimicrobial properties. In this work, we present a novel approach to fabricate antibacterial stainless steel 316L by functional polyethyleneimine-glutaraldehyde copolymer (PEI-co-GA/Ag catalyst) composites. PEI is a highly branched cationic polymer, which makes it exhibit very good adhesion on the surface of the substrate. Unlike the effect of the conventional silver mirror reaction, the introduction of functional polymers can effectively improve the adhesion and distribution of Ag particles on the surface of 316LSS. It can be seen from the SEM images that a large number of silver particles are retained and well dispersed in 316LSS after sintering. PEI-co-GA/Ag 316LSS exhibits excellent antimicrobial properties and does not release free silver ions to affect the surrounding environment. Furthermore, the probable mechanism for the influence of the functional composites on the enhancement of adhesion is also proposed. The formation of a large number of hydrogen bonds and van der Waals forces, as well as the negative zeta potential of the 316LSS surface, can effectively enable the formation of a tight attraction between the Cu layer and the surface of 316LSS. These results meet our expectations of designing passive antimicrobial properties on the contact surface of medical devices.
Mitigation of Thermal Instability for Electrical Properties in CaZrO3-Modified (Na, K, Li) NbO3 Lead-Free Piezoceramics
Authors: Chen Xiaoming , Ai Caoyuan , Yang Zhenghuai , Ni Yuanxian , Yin Xiaodong , You Jiankui , Li Guorong
Published: May 2023

Lead-free ceramics 0.96(Na0.52K0.48)0.95Li0.05NbO3-0.04CaZrO3 (NKLN-CZ) are prepared by using the solid-state procedure and two-step synthesis technique. The crystal structure and thermal stability of NKLN-CZ ceramics sintered at 1140–1180 °C are investigated. All the NKLN-CZ ceramics are ABO3-type perovskite phases without impure phases. With the increase in sintering temperature, a phase transition occurs in NKLN-CZ ceramics from the orthorhombic (O) phase to the concomitance of O-tetragonal (T) phases. Meanwhile, ceramics become dense because of the presence of liquid phases. In the vicinity of ambient temperature, an O-T phase boundary is obtained above 1160 °C, which triggers the improvement of electrical properties for the samples. The NKLN-CZ ceramics sintered at 1180 °C exhibit optimum electrical performances (d33 = 180 pC/N, kp = 0.31, dS/dE = 299 pm/V, εr = 920.03, tanδ = 0.0452, Pr = 18 μC/cm2, Tc = 384 °C, Ec = 14 kV/cm). The relaxor behavior of NKLN-CZ ceramics was induced by the introduction of CaZrO3, which may lead to A-site cation disorder and show diffuse phase transition characteristics. Hence, it broadens the temperature range of phase transformation and mitigates thermal instability for piezoelectric properties in NKLN-CZ ceramics. The value of kp for NKLN-CZ ceramics is held at 27.7–31% (variance of kp < 9%) in the range from −25 to 125 °C. The results indicate that lead-free ceramics NKLN-CZ is one of the hopeful temperature-stable piezoceramics for practical application in electronic devices.
High NIR Reflectance and Photocatalytic Ceramic Pigments Based on M-Doped Clinobisvanite BiVO4 (M = Ca, Cr) from Gels
Authors: Monrós Guillermo , Llusar Mario , Badenes José A.
Published: May 2023

Clinobisvanite (monoclinic scheelite BiVO4, S.G.I2/b) has garnered interest as a wide-band semiconductor with photocatalyst activity, as a high NIR reflectance material for camouflage and cool pigments and as a photoanode for PEC application from seawater. BiVO4 exists in four polymorphs: orthorhombic, zircon-tetragonal, monoclinic, and scheelite-tetragonal structures. In these crystal structures, V is coordinated by four O atoms in tetrahedral coordination and each Bi is coordinated to eight O atoms from eight different VO4 tetrahedral units. The synthesis and characterization of doped bismuth vanadate with Ca and Cr are studied using gel methods (coprecipitated and citrate metal–organic gels), which are compared with the ceramic route by means of the UV–vis–NIR spectroscopy of diffuse reflectance studies, band gap measurement, photocatalytic activity on Orange II and its relation with the chemical crystallography analyzed by the XRD, SEM-EDX and TEM-SAD techniques. The preparation of bismuth vanadate-based materials doped with calcium or chromium with various functionalities is addressed (a) as pigments for paints and for glazes in the chrome samples, with a color gradation from turquoise to black, depending on whether the synthesis is by the conventional ceramic route or by means of citrate gels, respectively; (b) with high NIR reflectance values that make them suitable as fresh pigments, to refresh the walls or roofs of buildings colored with them; and (c) with photocatalytic activity.
Advanced Tree-Based Techniques for Predicting Unconfined Compressive Strength of Rock Material Employing Non-Destructive and Petrographic Tests
Authors: Wang Yuzhen , Hasanipanah Mahdi , Rashid Ahmad , Le Binh , Ulrikh Dmitrii
Published: May 2023

The accurate estimation of rock strength is an essential task in almost all rock-based projects, such as tunnelling and excavation. Numerous efforts to create indirect techniques for calculating unconfined compressive strength (UCS) have been attempted. This is often due to the complexity of collecting and completing the abovementioned lab tests. This study applied two advanced machine learning techniques, including the extreme gradient boosting trees and random forest, for predicting the UCS based on non-destructive tests and petrographic studies. Before applying these models, a feature selection was conducted using a Pearson’s Chi-Square test. This technique selected the following inputs for the development of the gradient boosting tree (XGBT) and random forest (RF) models: dry density and ultrasonic velocity as non-destructive tests, and mica, quartz, and plagioclase as petrographic results. In addition to XGBT and RF models, some empirical equations and two single decision trees (DTs) were developed to predict UCS values. The results of this study showed that the XGBT model outperforms the RF for UCS prediction in terms of both system accuracy and error. The linear correlation of XGBT was 0.994, and its mean absolute error was 0.113. In addition, the XGBT model outperformed single DTs and empirical equations. The XGBT and RF models also outperformed KNN (R = 0.708), ANN (R = 0.625), and SVM (R = 0.816) models. The findings of this study imply that the XGBT and RF can be employed efficiently for predicting the UCS values.
On the Use of Polymer Inclusion Membranes for the Selective Separation of Pb(II), Cd(II), and Zn(II) from Seawater
Authors: Macías Mariana , Rodríguez de San Miguel Eduardo
Published: May 2023

The synthesis and optimization of polymeric inclusion membranes (PIMs) for the transport of Cd(II) and Pb(II) and their separation from Zn(II) in aqueous saline media are presented. The effects of NaCl concentrations, pH, matrix nature, and metal ion concentrations in the feed phase are additionally analyzed. Experimental design strategies were used for the optimization of PIM composition and evaluating competitive transport. Synthetic seawater with 35% salinity, commercial seawater collected from the Gulf of California (Panakos®), and seawater collected from the beach of Tecolutla, Veracruz, Mexico, were employed. The results show an excellent separation behavior in a three-compartment setup using two different PIMs (Aliquat 336 and D2EHPA as carriers, respectively), with the feed phase placed in the central compartment and two different stripping phases placed on both sides: one solution with 0.1 mol/dm3 HCl + 0.1 mol/dm3 NaCl and the other with 0.1 mol/dm3 HNO3. The selective separation of Pb(II), Cd(II), and Zn(II) from seawater shows separation factors whose values depend on the composition of the seawater media (metal ion concentrations and matrix composition). The PIM system allows S(Cd) and S(Pb)~1000 and 10 < S(Zn) < 1000, depending on the nature of the sample. However, values as high as 10,000 were observed in some experiments, allowing an adequate separation of the metal ions. Analyses of the separation factors in the different compartments in terms of the pertraction mechanism of the metal ions, PIMs stabilities, and preconcentration characteristics of the system are performed as well. A satisfactory preconcentration of the metal ions was observed after each recycling cycle.
Date Palm Tree Leaf-Derived Cellulose Nanocrystal Incorporated Thin-Film Composite forward Osmosis Membranes for Produced Water Treatment
Authors: Saud Asif , Saleem Haleema , Khan Aquib Wakeel , Munira Nazmin , Khan Maryam , Zaidi Syed Javaid
Published: May 2023

Worldwide water shortage and significant issues related to treatment of wastewater streams, mainly the water obtained during the recovery of oil and gas operations called produced water (PW), has enabled forward osmosis (FO) to progress and become advanced enough to effectively treat as well as retrieve water in order to be productively reused. Because of their exceptional permeability qualities, thin-film composite (TFC) membranes have gained increasing interest for use in FO separation processes. This research focused on developing a high water flux and less oil flux TFC membrane by incorporating sustainably developed cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) onto the polyamide (PA) layer of the TFC membrane. CNCs are prepared from date palm leaves and different characterization studies verified the definite formations of CNCs and the effective integration of CNCs in the PA layer. From the FO experiments, it was confirmed that that the membrane with 0.05 wt% of CNCs in the TFC membrane (TFN-5) showed better FO performance in PW treatment. Pristine TFC and TFN-5 membrane exhibited 96.2% and 99.0% of salt rejection and 90.5% and 97.45% of oil rejection. Further, TFC and TFN-5 demonstrated 0.46 and 1.61 LMHB pure water permeability and 0.41 and 1.42 LHM salt permeability, respectively. Thus, the developed membrane can help in overcoming the current challenges associated with TFC FO membranes for PW treatment processes.
Time-Resolved Corrosion Behavior of Transition-Metal-Based High-Entropy Alloy in Saline and Phosphate Buffer Solutions
Authors: Sarac Baran
Published: May 2023

This study focuses on time-resolved surface modifications of a single-phase Ti25Zr25Nb15V15Ta20 high-entropy alloy (HEA) when immersed in 0.9 wt% NaCl and phosphate-buffer solutions (PBS) at 37 °C. A remarkable transition from high ionic diffusion to electron conduction was observed in PBS, whereas the existing conductivity in NaCl solution was further enhanced after 3 h of exposure. During in-situ testing, NaCl improved passivation conceived by the decrease in passivation-current density and increase in Tafel slope. Heterogeneously dispersed oxide particles with NaCl could have accounted for the moderate increase in conductivity while not affecting the capacitive behavior. The Tafel slope decreased after 2 h of immersion in PBS linked to K+ and P−3 accumulation on the surface. The pronounced change in the post-PBS treated sample was also revealed by a four-fold increase in HEA-electrolyte resistance. A visible decrease in the constant-phase-element parameter of the HEA-electrolyte interface after long-term PBS immersion indicated a rise in electrode conductivity and ionic build-up on the surface. The findings suggest that compared to PBS, the selected HEA has a faster passive-layer formation in NaCl with smaller changes in interface resistivity upon long-term immersion, which is promising for enhanced protein-adsorption rates and loading amount.
20-Hydroxyecdysone Confers Antioxidant and Antineoplastic Properties in Human Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cells
Authors: Shuvalov Oleg , Kirdeeva Yulia , Fefilova Elizaveta , Netsvetay Sofia , Zorin Mark , Vlasova Yulia , Fedorova Olga , Daks Alexandra , Parfenyev Sergey , Barlev Nickolai
Published: May 2023

20-Hydroxyecdysone (20E) is an arthropod hormone which is synthesized by some plants as part of their defense mechanism. In humans, 20E has no hormonal activity but possesses a number of beneficial pharmacological properties including anabolic, adaptogenic, hypoglycemic, and antioxidant properties, as well as cardio-, hepato-, and neuroprotective features. Recent studies have shown that 20E may also possess antineoplastic activity. In the present study, we reveal the anticancer properties of 20E in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) cell lines. 20E displayed significant antioxidant capacities and induced the expression of antioxidative stress response genes. The RNA-seq analysis of 20E-treated lung cancer cells revealed the attenuation of genes involved in different metabolic processes. Indeed, 20E suppressed several enzymes of glycolysis and one-carbon metabolism, as well as their key transcriptional regulators—c-Myc and ATF4, respectively. Accordingly, using the SeaHorse energy profiling approach, we observed the inhibition of glycolysis and respiration mediated by 20E treatment. Furthermore, 20E sensibilized lung cancer cells to metabolic inhibitors and markedly suppressed the expression of Cancer Stem Cells (CSCs) markers. Thus, in addition to the known beneficial pharmacological activities of 20E, our data uncovered novel antineoplastic properties of 20E in NSCLC cells.
Micro-Shaping of Pure Aluminum in Long-Duration Wire Electrochemical Micromachining Using Bipolar Nanosecond Pulses
Authors: Bi Xiaolei , Jia Meng , Meng Lingchao
Published: May 2023

With the increasing application of three-dimensional pure aluminum microstructures in micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) and for fabricating terahertz components, high-quality micro-shaping of pure aluminum has gradually attracted attention. Recently, high-quality three-dimensional microstructures of pure aluminum with a short machining path have been obtained through wire electrochemical micromachining (WECMM), owing to its sub-micrometer-scale machining precision. However, machining accuracy and stability decrease owing to the adhesion of insoluble products on the surface of the wire electrode in long-duration WECMM, which limits the application of pure aluminum microstructures with a long machining path. In this study, the bipolar nanosecond pulses are used to improve the machining accuracy and stability in long-duration WECMM of pure aluminum. A negative voltage of −0.5 V was considered appropriate based on experimental results. Compared with the traditional WECMM using unipolar pulses, the machining accuracy of the machined micro-slit and the duration of stable machining were significantly improved in long-duration WECMM using bipolar nanosecond pulses.
Photoelectrochemical Green Hydrogen Production Utilizing ZnO Nanostructured Photoelectrodes
Authors: Al-Saeedi Sameerah I.
Published: May 2023

One of the emerging and environmentally friendly technologies is the photoelectrochemical generation of green hydrogen; however, the cheap cost of production and the need for customizing photoelectrode properties are thought to be the main obstacles to the widespread adoption of this technology. The primary players in hydrogen production by photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting, which is becoming more common on a worldwide basis, are solar renewable energy and widely available metal oxide based PEC electrodes. This study attempts to prepare nanoparticulate and nanorod-arrayed films to better understand how nanomorphology can impact structural, optical, and PEC hydrogen production efficiency, as well as electrode stability. Chemical bath deposition (CBD) and spray pyrolysis are used to create ZnO nanostructured photoelectrodes. Various characterization methods are used to investigate morphologies, structures, elemental analysis, and optical characteristics. The crystallite size of the wurtzite hexagonal nanorod arrayed film was 100.8 nm for the (002) orientation, while the crystallite size of nanoparticulate ZnO was 42.1 nm for the favored (101) orientation. The lowest dislocation values for (101) nanoparticulate orientation and (002) nanorod orientation are 5.6 × 10−4 and 1.0 × 10−4 dislocation/nm2, respectively. By changing the surface morphology from nanoparticulate to hexagonal nanorod arrangement, the band gap is decreased to 2.99 eV. Under white and monochromatic light irradiation, the PEC generation of H2 is investigated using the proposed photoelectrodes. The solar-to-hydrogen conversion rate of ZnO nanorod-arrayed electrodes was 3.72% and 3.12%, respectively, under 390 and 405 nm monochromatic light, which is higher than previously reported values for other ZnO nanostructures. The output H2 generation rates for white light and 390 nm monochromatic illuminations were 28.43 and 26.11 mmol.h−1cm−2, respectively. The nanorod-arrayed photoelectrode retains 96.6% of its original photocurrent after 10 reusability cycles, compared to 87.4% for the nanoparticulate ZnO photoelectrode. The computation of conversion efficiencies, H2 output rates, Tafel slope, and corrosion current, as well as the application of low-cost design methods for the photoelectrodes, show how the nanorod-arrayed morphology offers low-cost, high-quality PEC performance and durability.
Magnetostratigraphy of Early Oligocene-Middle Miocene Deposits in the Xunhua Basin on the Tibet Plateau, China, and Their Paleoclimate Significance
Authors: Li Pengfei , Fu Chaofeng , Saimaiti Akemu , Chang Hong , Tian Ju’e , Chen Lin , Qiang Xiaoke
Published: May 2023

The growth history of the Tibetan Plateau provides a valuable natural laboratory to understand tectonic processes of the India–Asia collision and their impact on and interactions with Asian and global climate change. However, both Tibetan Plateau growth and Asian paleoenvironments are generally poorly documented in pre-Pliocene times and reflect limited temporal coverage for different parts of the plateau. In this paper, the 238 m thick Cenozoic sediments in the Hongzhuang section of the Xunhua Basin were tested and analyzed via paleomagnetic and environmental magnetic methods. The formation age was determined, and the evolution history of the regional climate environment was analyzed. The magnetostratigraphy study shows that the sediments record a continuous sequence of geomagnetic polarity changes from C5ACn to C10r, which spans an interval of approximately 30~14.3 Ma from the early Oligocene to the middle Miocene. The magnetic susceptibility of the Hongzhuang section is basically similar to the deep-sea oxygen isotope fluctuation, indicating that the monsoon climate change indicated by the magnetic susceptibility is affected by global temperature. It is worth noting that at ~27 Ma and ~15 Ma, there is a negative correlation between magnetic susceptibility and deep-sea oxygen isotope, and magnetic susceptibility lags behind the increase in deep-sea oxygen isotope. Combined with the change in the sedimentary rate curve, we explain the asynchrony between the magnetic susceptibility and the deep-sea oxygen isotope around ~27 Ma and ~15 Ma. As the uplift of the plateau leads to the enhancement of the East Asian summer monsoon, the soil formation in the region is strengthened, resulting in an increase in magnetic susceptibility. At the same time, the rapid uplift of the plateau caused the erosion of the surrounding mountains to strengthen, and the input of near-source materials may promote the increase in magnetic susceptibility.
Characterization of Some Stilbenoids Extracted from Two Cultivars of Lambrusco—Vitis vinifera Species: An Opportunity to Valorize Pruning Canes for a More Sustainable Viticulture
Authors: D’Eusanio Veronica , Genua Francesco , Marchetti Andrea , Morelli Lorenzo , Tassi Lorenzo
Published: May 2023

Pruning canes from grape vines are valuable byproducts that contain resveratrol and other health-boosting stilbenoids. This study aimed to assess the effect of roasting temperature on the stilbenoid content of vine canes by comparing two Vitis vinifera cultivars, Lambrusco Ancellotta and Salamino. Samples were collected during different phases of the vine plant cycle. One set was collected in September after the grape harvest and was air-dried and analyzed. A second set was obtained during vine pruning in February and evaluated immediately after collection. The main stilbenoid identified in each sample was resveratrol (~100–2500 mg/kg), with significant levels of viniferin (~100–600 mg/kg) and piceatannol (~0–400 mg/kg). Their contents decreased with increasing roasting temperature and residence time on the plant. This study provides valuable insights into the use of vine canes in a novel and efficient manner, which could potentially benefit different industries. One potential use involves the roasted cane chips to accelerate the aging of vinegars and alcoholic beverages. This method is more efficient and cost-effective than traditional aging, which is slow and unfavorable from an industrial perspective. Furthermore, incorporating vine canes into maturation processes reduces viticulture waste and enhances the final products with health-promoting molecules, such as resveratrol.
Synthesis of New Polyheterocyclic Pyrrolo[3,4-b]pyridin-5-ones via an Ugi-Zhu/Cascade/Click Strategy
Authors: Blanco-Carapia Roberto E. , Aguilar-Rangel Enrique A. , Rincón-Guevara Mónica A. , Islas-Jácome Alejandro , González-Zamora Eduardo
Published: May 2023

A diversity-oriented synthesis (DOS) of two new polyheterocyclic compounds was performed via an Ugi-Zhu/cascade (N-acylation/aza Diels-Alder cycloaddition/decarboxylation/dehydration)/click strategy, both step-by-step to optimize all involved experimental stages, and in one pot manner to evaluate the scope and sustainability of this polyheterocyclic-focused synthetic strategy. In both ways, the yields were excellent, considering the high number of bonds formed with release of only one carbon dioxide and two molecules of water. The Ugi-Zhu reaction was carried out using the 4-formylbenzonitrile as orthogonal reagent, where the formyl group was first transformed into the pyrrolo[3,4-b]pyridin-5-one core, and then the remaining nitrile group was further converted into two different nitrogen-containing polyheterocycles, both via click-type cycloadditions. The first one used sodium azide to obtain the corresponding 5-substituted-1H-tetrazolyl-pyrrolo[3,4-b]pyridin-5-one, and the second one with dicyandiamide to synthesize the 2,4-diamino-1,3,5-triazine-pyrrolo[3,4-b]pyridin-5-one. Both synthesized compounds may be used for further in vitro and in silico studies because they contain more than two heterocyclic moieties of high interest in medicinal chemistry, as well as in optics due to their high π-conjugation.
Physicochemical Properties, Thermal Stability, and Pyrolysis Behavior of Antioxidative Lignin from Water Chestnut Shell Obtained with Ternary Deep Eutectic Solvents
Authors: Li Feng , Lv Wenzhi , Huang Dena , Zeng Chenglu , Wang Runping
Published: May 2023

The molecular weight of lignin extracted from lignocellulosic biomass is an important factor in determining its valorization in industrial processes. Herein, this work aims to explore the extraction of high molecular weight and bioactive lignin from water chestnut shells under mild conditions. Five kinds of deep eutectic solvents were prepared and applied to isolate lignin from water chestnut shells. The extracted lignin was further characterized with element analysis, gel permeation chromatography, and Ultraviolet-visible and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The distribution of pyrolysis products was identified and quantified with thermogravimetric analysis—Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and pyrolysis-gas chromatograph-mass spectrometry. The results showed that choline chloride/ethylene glycol/p-toluenesulfonic acid (1:1.8:0.2 molar ratio) exhibited the highest fractionation efficiency for lignin (84.17% yield) at 100 °C for 2 h. Simultaneously, the lignin showed high purity (90.4%), high relative molecular weight (37,077 g/mol), and excellent uniformity. Furthermore, the aromatic ring structure of lignin remained intact, consisting mainly of p-hydroxyphenyl, syringl, and guaiacyl subunits. The lignin generated a large number of volatile organic compounds during the depolymerization process, mainly composed of ketones, phenols, syringols, guaiacols, esters, and aromatic compounds. Finally, the antioxidant activity of the lignin sample was evaluated with the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging assay; the lignin from water chestnut shells showed excellent antioxidant activity. These findings confirm that lignin from water chestnut shells has a broad application prospect in valuable chemicals, biofuels and bio-functional materials.
Laser-Induced Chirality of Plasmonic Nanoparticles Embedded in Porous Matrix
Authors: Sapunova Anastasiia A. , Yandybaeva Yulia I. , Zakoldaev Roman A. , Afanasjeva Alexandra V. , Andreeva Olga V. , Gladskikh Igor A. , Vartanyan Tigran A. , Dadadzhanov Daler R.
Published: May 2023

Chiral plasmonic nanostructures have emerged as promising objects for numerous applications in nanophotonics, optoelectronics, biosensing, chemistry, and pharmacy. Here, we propose a novel method to induce strong chirality in achiral ensembles of gold nanoparticles via irradiation with circularly-polarized light of a picosecond Nd:YAG laser. Embedding of gold nanoparticles into a nanoporous silicate matrix leads to the formation of a racemic mixture of metal nanoparticles of different chirality that is enhanced by highly asymmetric dielectric environment of the nanoporous matrix. Then, illumination with intense circularly-polarized light selectively modifies the particles with the chirality defined by the handedness of the laser light, while their “enantiomers” survive the laser action almost unaffected. This novel modification of the spectral hole burning technique leads to the formation of an ensemble of plasmonic metal nanoparticles that demonstrates circular dichroism up to 100 mdeg. An unforeseen peculiarity of the chiral nanostructures obtained in this way is that 2D and 3D nanostructures contribute almost equally to the observed circular dichroism signals. Thus, the circular dichroism is neither even nor odd under reversal of direction of light propagation. These findings will help guide the development of a passive optical modulator and nanoplatform for enhanced chiral sensing and catalysis.
Progress and Challenges of Chloride–Iodide Perovskite Solar Cells: A Critical Review
Authors: Howlader Ashraful Hossain , Uddin Ashraf
Published: May 2023

Chloride–iodide perovskites have received substantial interest due to their better photovoltaic performance compared to pure iodide ones. The superior properties of chloride–iodide perovskites boost photovoltaic performance. However, quantifying the Cl composition in perovskite films remains challenging. Hence, it is not easy to correlate the Cl quantity with the improved photovoltaic performance. Considering this critical issue, it is still necessary to determine the correlation between the Cl quantity and the improved photovoltaic performance to solve this puzzle. Here, a critical review is presented showcasing the significant impacts of the Cl quantity on chloride–iodide perovskites and related solar cell devices. This review provides an up-to-date picture of different strategic methods to overcome the challenges of Cl incorporation in I-based perovskites, aiming to improve photovoltaic performance. Finally, some valuable remedies are prescribed for potential future research strategies to study the photovoltaic performance of chloride–iodide perovskite solar cells. Hopefully, this review will be a noteworthy scientific contribution to the advancement of the continuous progress of perovskite solar cells.
Regular Consumption of Cocoa and Red Berries as a Strategy to Improve Cardiovascular Biomarkers via Modulation of Microbiota Metabolism in Healthy Aging Adults
Authors: García-Cordero Joaquín , Martinez Alba , Blanco-Valverde Carlos , Pino Alicia , Puertas-Martín Verónica , San Román Ricardo , de Pascual-Teresa Sonia
Published: May 2023

The aim of the present study was to analyze the effects of cocoa flavanols and red berry anthocyanins on cardiovascular biomarkers, such as homocysteine, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), nitric oxide (NO), flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD), blood pressure and lipid profile. Additionally, we aimed to ascertain their possible interactions with microbiota related metabolites, such as secondary bile acids (SBA), short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) and trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO). A randomized, parallel-group study, single-blind for the research team, was performed on 60 healthy volunteers between the ages of 45 and 85, who consumed 2.5 g/day of cocoa powder (9.59 mg/day of total flavanols), 5 g/day of a red berry mixture (13.9 mg/day of total anthocyanins) or 7.5 g/day of a combination of both for 12 weeks. The group that had consumed cocoa showed a significant reduction in TMAO (p = 0.03) and uric acid (p = 0.01) levels in serum, accompanied by an increase in FMD values (p = 0.03) and total polyphenols. corrected by creatinine (p = 0.03) after the intervention. These latter values negatively correlated with the TMAO concentration (R = −0.57, p = 0.02). Additionally, we observed an increase in carbohydrate fermentation in the groups that had consumed cocoa (p = 0.04) and red berries (p = 0.04) between the beginning and the end of the intervention. This increase in carbohydrate fermentation was correlated with lower levels of TC/HDL ratio (p = 0.01), systolic (p = 0.01) and diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.01). In conclusion, our study showed a positive modulation of microbiota metabolism after a regular intake of cocoa flavanols and red berry anthocyanins that led to an improvement in cardiovascular function, especially in the group that consumed cocoa.
The Potential of Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) as Complementary Medicine for the Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Schnur Sabrina , Hans Fabian , Dehne Annika , Osti Janina , Schneemann Malte-Ole , Schneider Marc , Hittinger Marius
Published: May 2023

Complementary and alternative medicine has the potential to enrich conventional therapy to improve the treatment of various diseases. Patients that suffer from inflammatory bowel disease, which requires a constant need for medication, have to deal with the adverse effects of repeated application. Natural products such as Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) possess the potential to improve symptoms of inflammatory diseases. We investigated the efficacy of EGCG on an inflamed co-culture model simulating IBD and compared it to the efficacies of four commonly applied active pharmaceutical ingredients. EGCG (200 µg/mL) strongly stabilized the TEER value of the inflamed epithelial barrier to 165.7 ± 4.6% after 4 h. Moreover, the full barrier integrity was maintained even after 48 h. This corresponds to the immunosuppressant 6-Mercaptopurin and the biological drug Infliximab. The EGCG treatment significantly decreased the release of the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6 (to 0%) and IL-8 (to 14.2%), similar to the effect of the corticosteroid Prednisolone. Therefore, EGCG has a high potential to be deployed as complementary medicine in IBD. In future studies, the improvement of EGCG stability is a key factor in increasing the bioavailability in vivo and fully harnessing the health-improving effects of EGCG.
Dose-Ranging Plasma and Genital Tissue Pharmacokinetics and Biodegradation of Ultra-Long-Acting Cabotegravir In Situ Forming Implant
Authors: Young Isabella C. , Thorson Allison L. , Shrivastava Roopali , Sykes Craig , Schauer Amanda P. , Cottrell Mackenzie L. , Kashuba Angela D. M. , Benhabbour Soumya Rahima
Published: May 2023

HIV continues to affect millions of men and women worldwide. The development of long-acting injectables for HIV prevention can overcome adherence challenges with daily oral prevention regimens by reducing dosing frequency and stigma. We previously developed an ultra-long-acting injectable, biodegradable, and removeable in situ forming implant (ISFI) with cabotegravir (CAB) that demonstrated protection after multiple rectal SHIV challenges in female macaques. Here, we sought to further characterize CAB ISFI pharmacokinetics (PK) in mice by assessing the effect of dose and number of injections on CAB PK, time to completion of CAB release and polymer degradation, long-term genital tissue PK, and CAB PK tail after implant removal. CAB concentrations in plasma were above the benchmark for protection for 11–12 months with proportionality between dose and drug exposure. CAB ISFI exhibited high concentrations in vaginal, cervical, and rectal tissues for up to 180 days. Furthermore, depots were easily retrievable up to 180 days post-administration with up to 34% residual CAB and near complete (85%) polymer degradation quantified in depots ex vivo. After depot removal, results demonstrated a median 11-fold decline in CAB plasma concentrations across all doses. Ultimately, this study provided critical PK information for the CAB ISFI formulation that could aid in its future translation to clinical studies.
Recent Advances in the Microencapsulation of Essential Oils, Lipids, and Compound Lipids through Spray Drying: A Review
Authors: Sánchez-Osorno Diego Mauricio , López-Jaramillo María Camila , Caicedo Paz Angie Vanesa , Villa Aída Luz , Peresin María S. , Martínez-Galán Julián Paul
Published: May 2023

In recent decades, the microcapsules of lipids, compound lipids, and essential oils, have found numerous potential practical applications in food, textiles, agricultural products, as well as pharmaceuticals. This article discusses the encapsulation of fat-soluble vitamins, essential oils, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and structured lipids. Consequently, the compiled information establishes the criteria to better select encapsulating agents as well as combinations of encapsulating agents best suited to the types of active ingredient to be encapsulated. This review shows a trend towards applications in food and pharmacology as well as the increase in research related to microencapsulation by the spray drying of vitamins A and E, as well as fish oil, thanks to its contribution of omega 3 and omega 6. There is also an increase in articles in which spray drying is combined with other encapsulation techniques, or modifications to the conventional spray drying system.
Permeability of Fresh and Frozen Porcine and Human Gingiva and the Effect of Storage Duration
Authors: Wanasathop Apipa , Choi Hyojin Alex , Nimmansophon Patcharawan , Murawsky Michael , Krishnan Deepak G. , Li S. Kevin
Published: May 2023

The gingiva is the target site for some topical drugs, but the permeability of human gingiva has not been systematically evaluated. Pigs are a common animal model for in vitro membrane transport studies. The objectives of this study were to: (a) determine the permeability coefficients of freshly excised human gingiva using model permeants, (b) compare the permeability coefficients of fresh human gingiva with those of fresh porcine gingiva, (c) evaluate the effect of freezing duration on the permeability of porcine gingiva, and (d) compare the permeability coefficients of fresh and cadaver (frozen) human gingiva. A goal was to examine the feasibility of using porcine gingiva as a surrogate for human gingiva. The potential of using frozen tissues in permeability studies of gingiva was also examined. Fresh and frozen porcine gingiva, fresh human gingiva, and frozen cadaver human gingiva were compared in the transport study with model polar and lipophilic permeants. The fresh porcine and human tissues showed similarities in the “permeability coefficient vs. octanol–water distribution coefficient” relationship. The porcine gingiva had a lower permeability than that of the human, with a moderate correlation between the permeability of the fresh porcine and fresh human tissues. The permeability of the porcine tissues for the model polar permeants increased significantly after the tissues were frozen in storage. Moreover, the frozen human cadaver tissue could not be utilized due to the high and indiscriminating permeability of the tissue for the permeants and large tissue sample-to-sample variabilities.