bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Engineering Properties of Road Paving Mixtures with High Content of Reclaimed Asphalt and Recycled Waste Plastics
Authors: La Macchia Joseph Nicolas , Baglieri Orazio , Dalmazzo Davide , Santagata Ezio
Published: November 2024

Great efforts have been made in recent years by the scientific community and the asphalt industry in developing sustainable technologies for the production of asphalt mixtures for road paving applications, pursuing the use of ever higher quantities of recycled materials. In this regard, the challenge is to define the optimal formulation of the mixture which allows the various component materials to be synergistically combined without compromising the performance and durability of the asphalt pavement. In such a context, the experimental study described in this paper aimed to provide a contribution to research by investigating sustainable asphalt mixtures containing 50% reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) and polymeric compound composed of 100% recycled plastics. A wide set of mixtures was prepared in a laboratory by employing different dosages of polymeric compound added via the hybrid method at various binder contents. For comparison purposes, an additional set of reference asphalt mixtures containing standard polymer-modified binder (PmB) and virgin aggregate without RAP was prepared and tested. The experimentation focused on the main engineering properties of the asphalt mixtures, including their workability, volumetric properties, and mechanical characteristics. The experimental study involved a preliminary trial phase to establish an appropriate laboratory mixing procedure. The results obtained from the experimentation indicated that recycled waste plastics have good potential for use in asphalt mixtures with high contents of RAP, provided that the quantity of added plastics is adequately balanced.
Determination of the Chloride Ion Deposition by the Bresle Method
Authors: Vacek Miroslav , Křivý Vít , Křistková Barbora
Published: November 2024

In corrosion science, accurate determination of chloride ion deposition rates is critical to mitigating the environmental impact on structures. Traditional methods, such as the wet candle and dry plate methods (ISO 9225), are often inaccurate in capturing localized conditions and are also time-consuming and costly. The Bresle method, which measures soluble salts directly on metal surfaces, offers a more targeted approach. This article examines the Bresle method as an alternative for determining average monthly chloride ion deposition rates, including a regression analysis comparing the Bresle method with the wet candle method, and examines the long-term salinity of exposed surfaces in comparison with the additive approach to surface salinity. This paper hypothesizes that the Bresle method can be used as an alternative to the wet candle method. Linear regression analysis shows a strong correlation in chloride ion deposition rates compared to those measured by the wet candle method. However, cumulative measurements using long-term exposed coupons are unreliable due to inconsistent trends.
Synthesis and Structural Modulation of Nanoporous Copper Films by Magnetron Sputtering and One-Step Dealloying
Authors: Li Jinglei , Yu Bin , Ran Yunfei , Liu Yalong , Fei Xiangyu , Sun Jiameng , Tan Fuquan , Cheng Guanhua , Zhang Ying , Qin Jingyu , Zhang Zhonghua
Published: November 2024

Nanoporous copper (np-Cu) has attracted much more attention due to its lower cost compared to other noble metals and high functionality in practical use. Herein, Al100−xCux(x = 13–88 at.%) precursor films with thicknesses of 0.16–1.1 μm were fabricated by varying magnetron co-sputtering parameters. Subsequently, utilizing a one-step dealloying strategy, a series of np-Cu films with ligament sizes ranging from 11.4–19.0 nm were synthesized. The effects of precursor composition and substrate temperature on the microstructure of np-Cu films were investigated. As the atomic ratio of Cu increases from 15 to 34, the np-Cu film detached from the substrate gradually transforms into a bi-continuous ligament-channel structure that is well bonded to the substrate. Furthermore, the novel bi-layer hierarchical np-Cu films were successfully prepared based on single-layer nanoporous films. Our findings not only contribute to the systematic understanding of the modification of the morphology and structure of np-Cu films but also offer a valuable framework for the design and fabrication of other non-noble nanoporous metals with tailored properties.
A Review of Physics-Based, Data-Driven, and Hybrid Models for Tool Wear Monitoring
Authors: Zhang Haoyuan , Jiang Shanglei , Gao Defeng , Sun Yuwen , Bai Wenxiang
Published: November 2024

Tool wear is an inevitable phenomenon in the machining process. By monitoring the wear state of a tool, the machining system can give early warning and make advance decisions, which effectively ensures improved machining quality and production efficiency. In the past two decades, scholars have conducted extensive research on tool wear monitoring (TWM) and obtained a series of remarkable research achievements. However, physics-based models have difficulty predicting tool wear accurately. Meanwhile, the diversity of actual machining environments further limits the application of physical models. Data-driven models can establish the deep mapping relationship between signals and tool wear, but they only fit trained data well. They still have difficulty adapting to complex machining conditions. In this paper, physics-based and data-driven TWM models are first reviewed in detail, including the factors that affect tool wear, typical data-based models, and methods for extracting and selecting features. Then, tracking research hotspots, emerging physics–data fusion models are systematically summarized.
A Study on Text Classification in the Age of Large Language Models
Authors: Trust Paul , Minghim Rosane
Published: November 2024

Large language models (LLMs) have recently made significant advances, excelling in tasks like question answering, summarization, and machine translation. However, their enormous size and hardware requirements make them less accessible to many in the machine learning community. To address this, techniques such as quantization, prefix tuning, weak supervision, low-rank adaptation, and prompting have been developed to customize these models for specific applications. While these methods have mainly improved text generation, their implications for the text classification task are not thoroughly studied. Our research intends to bridge this gap by investigating how variations like model size, pre-training objectives, quantization, low-rank adaptation, prompting, and various hyperparameters influence text classification tasks. Our overall conclusions show the following: 1—even with synthetic labels, fine-tuning works better than prompting techniques, and increasing model size does not always improve classification performance; 2—discriminatively trained models generally perform better than generatively pre-trained models; and 3—fine-tuning models at 16-bit precision works much better than using 8-bit or 4-bit models, but the performance drop from 8-bit to 4-bit is smaller than from 16-bit to 8-bit. In another scale of our study, we conducted experiments with different settings for low-rank adaptation (LoRA) and quantization, finding that increasing LoRA dropout negatively affects classification performance. We did not find a clear link between the LoRA attention dimension (rank) and performance, observing only small differences between standard LoRA and its variants like rank-stabilized LoRA and weight-decomposed LoRA. Additional observations to support model setup for classification tasks are presented in our analyses.
Implementation of Adaptive Observer and Mathematical Model Validation of the Evaporator of an Absorption Heat Transformer
Authors: Escobar-Jiménez Ricardo Fabricio , Canela-Sánchez Isaac Justine , Adam-Medina Manuel , Acevedo-Quiroz Abisai , Huicochea-Rodríguez Armando , Juárez-Romero David
Published: November 2024

This article presents the implementation of an adaptive observer to validate a falling film evaporator mathematical model. The evaporator consists of four coils, and each coil has four tubes. The heating flow in the first and third coils flows from bottom to top. Meanwhile, the heating flow in the second and fourth coils flows from top to bottom. The mathematical model of the evaporator is parameterized with the geometry data of the experimental device. Since the mathematical model depends on the film breakdown onset Reynolds number (ReOnset) to estimate the evaporator temperatures, an adaptive observer is applied to estimate this unknown parameter (ReOnset). The observer design is developed through the evaporator mathematical model. The research aims to estimate the ReOnset at different operating conditions to accurately estimate the evaporator temperatures since there is no general correlation for estimating it or a sensor to measure this parameter. Once the ReOnset is estimated at different operating conditions, the ReOnset results are injected into the model for validation. The results of implementing the observer showed that the temperature estimation errors are between 0.00003% and 0.02815%. Moreover, the temperatures simulated with the model using the ReOnset estimated with the observers had errors between 0.04012% and 0.14160%.
Equivalence Between Fractional Differential Problems and Their Corresponding Integral Forms with the Pettis Integral
Authors: Cichoń Mieczysław , Shammakh Wafa , Cichoń Kinga , Salem Hussein A. H.
Published: November 2024

The problem of equivalence between differential and integral problems is absolutely crucial when applying solution methods based on operators and their properties in function spaces. In this paper, we complement the solution of this important problem by considering the case of general derivatives and integrals of fractional order for vector functions for weak topology. Even if a Caputo differential fractional order problem has a right-hand side that is weakly continuous, the equivalence between the differential and integral forms may be affected. In this paper, we present a complete solution to this problem using fractional order Pettis integrals and suitably defined pseudo-derivatives, taking care to construct appropriate Hölder-type spaces on which the operators under study are mutually inverse. In this paper, we prove, in a number of cases, the equivalence of differential and integral problems in Hölder spaces and, by means of appropriate counter-examples, investigate cases where this property of the problems is absent.
Pinching Results for Submanifolds in Lorentzian–Sasakian Manifolds Endowed with a Semi-Symmetric Non-Metric Connection
Authors: Mohammed Mohammed , Mihai Ion , Olteanu Andreea
Published: November 2024

We establish an improved Chen inequality involving scalar curvature and mean curvature and geometric inequalities for Casorati curvatures, on slant submanifolds in a Lorentzian–Sasakian space form endowed with a semi-symmetric non-metric connection. Also, we present examples of slant submanifolds in a Lorentzian–Sasakian space form.
Overuse of CT for Minor Head Trauma Patients: A Retrospective Analysis from Poland and Lithuania Trauma Centres
Authors: Blažienė Kristina , Nożewski Jakub , Cibulskė Vaida , Kunigonytė Monika , Košytė Deimantė , Bareikis Karolis , Aukštakalnis Vytautas
Published: November 2024

Background and Objectives: Head trauma is one of many conditions that trauma centres deal with daily. This study aimed to analyse the utilisation of head CT scans for patients with minor head trauma in two major hospitals in Lithuania and Poland. Materials and Methods: We conducted a retrospective, descriptive study of CT utilisation in minor head trauma patients presenting to the Level 1 trauma centre Hospital of the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences Kaunas Clinics (HLUHS KC) and Jan Biziel University Hospital in Bydgoszcz emergency departments (EDs), during the study period from 01 February to 30 April 2023. Results: During the study period, 1048 patients visited the HLUHS KC emergency department (ED) due to head trauma, and 388 patients visited the Jan Biziel University Hospital. Overall, 611 patients were included in the study. Most of the patients (92%) who suffered minimal trauma were younger than 65 years old. Eighty-two per cent of the patients older than 65 years old arrived at the ED after suffering a fall. Almost all the patients who were using antiplatelets (93%) or anticoagulants (91%) had CT scans. Non-emergency medicine (EM) physicians were more likely to order head CT scans than EM physicians (170 (83%) vs. 249 (62%), p < 0.001). There were 33 (5%) CT scans with traumatic features, and 8 (1%) of these were categorised as clinically significant. Patients who suffered clinically significant head trauma were more likely to be on anticoagulants and older than 65 when compared to normal/insignificant CT findings: 3 (38%) vs. 25 (6%), p < 0.001; and 6 (75%) vs. 146 (36%), p < 0.021. Conclusions: A significant number of head CT scans performed were not necessary according to existing head CT guidelines and risk calculators. However, even in minor head traumas, clinically significant head injuries may occur.
Large-Scale Atomistic Simulation of Sintering Process and Mechanical Properties of Al Matrix Composite with Different Reinforcements
Authors: Zhu Yongchao , Sui Can , Li Na , Sun Lijuan , Li Songtao
Published: November 2024

Through molecular dynamics methods, composite models built with a large scale were employed to investigate the effects of different reinforcements, which were different from those used in most of the similar studies, where only a graphene nanosheet (GNS) or a rigid spherical particle was embedded in a metal matrix. Here, 27 GNSs or diamond particles were placed in the empty spaces between Al particles with random directions. Then, Al matrix composites were prepared by modeling a sintering process. Structural analysis and tensile modeling were carried out on the sintered composites. The results indicate that the density of the Al–graphene composite was higher and increased with growth in the size of the reinforcements, although the Al–graphene system required more heating time to achieve densification. Bigger GNSs were likely to increase the pore volume of the composite. Meanwhile, larger GNSs were also more beneficial for grain refinement, leading to growth in the ratio of Al atoms at grain boundaries. The greater impact of GNSs on the inner structure was not just derived from their high specific surface area, and this impact was enlarged if drawn as a function of the weight fraction rather than the surface area. However, tensile processes revealed that two-dimensional (2D) materials seemed to have no clear impact on the direct strengthening effect, and anisotropy could not be observed in the large-scale models. The biggest GNSs even led to reductions in both the tensile strength and ductility of the Al–graphene composite, which coincided with some experimental reports. The evolution of the inner structures indicated that GNSs have the same role as diamond particles in dislocation accumulation and crack propagation. The major advantage of GNSs is their ability to improve the densification and grain refinement of the metal matrix composite (MMC).
A Review on the Interface Structure and Control Between Graphene Nanoplatelets (GNPs) and Ti Matrix of GNPs/Ti Matrix Composites
Authors: Li Zongan , Xing Shilong , Wu Shuo , Hou Jiabin , Wu Shaoqian
Published: November 2024

Graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs)-reinforced titanium matrix composites (GNPs/Ti) have been found in extensive applications in aerospace and deep-sea industries, owing to their exceptional properties, including low density, high specific strength, and superior plasticity. GNPs are often incorporated into titanium matrix composites because of their excellent properties. GNPs/Ti matrix composites have strong deformation resistance at room temperature and need to be manufactured at high temperatures. However, high temperatures could result in an interfacial reaction between Ti and GNPs, forming large TiC particles and damaging the GNPs structure, hindering the enhancement effect. Therefore, controlling the interface reaction is crucial for addressing these challenges. This study thoroughly explores existing literature on GNPs/Ti matrix composites, focusing on preparation techniques, interface structure, and interface management. At the same time, the properties of some graphene nanoplatelets or the borides nanowires-reinforced metal matrix composites are also analyzed. It particularly emphasizes challenges in interface control, encompassing the surface modification of GNPs and its effects on microstructure and mechanical properties, control of the interface reaction, and the structure design of a 3D network interface and its effects on mechanical properties. Currently, optimizing the performance of GNPs/Ti matrix composites remains elusive. However, by improving the preparation method, modifying the surface of graphene, controlling the interface reaction and adjusting the interface structure, the interface characteristics can be improved, thereby improving the performance of GNPs/Ti composites.
Bibliometric Studies as a Publication Strategy
Authors: Ansorge Libor
Published: November 2024

The number of bibliometric studies published in the scientific literature has been increasing in recent years. Some authors publish more bibliometric studies than others. The aim of this study is to (i) identify authors who focus on bibliometric studies and their publication strategy based on these studies, and to (ii) determine whether the focus of the bibliometric studies can be considered a successful publication strategy. Bibliometric analysis, including citation analysis, was used to determine the results. The Scopus database was selected as the source of bibliometric data. A total of 100 authors who frequently publish bibliometric studies were identified. For almost half of them, bibliometric studies is considered the main or significant part of their publication portfolio. A relatively small group of authors widely publish bibliometric studies. The bibliometric indicators of these authors point out that the specialization of bibliometric studies is quite successful.
A Polycarbonate-Assisted Transfer Method for van der Waals Contacts to Magnetic Two-Dimensional Materials
Authors: Yang Kunlin , Zhao Guorui , Zhao Yibin , Xiao Jie , Wang Le , Liu Jiaqi , Song Wenqing , Lan Qing , Zhao Tuoyu , Huang Hai , Mei Jia-Wei , Shi Wu
Published: November 2024

Magnetic two-dimensional (2D) materials have garnered significant attention for their potential to revolutionize 2D spintronics due to their unique magnetic properties. However, their air-sensitivity and highly insulating nature of the magnetic semiconductors present substantial challenges for device fabrication with effective contacts. In this study, we introduce a polycarbonate (PC)-assisted transfer method that effectively forms van der Waals (vdW) contacts with 2D materials, streamlining the fabrication process without the need for additional lithography. This method is particularly advantageous for air-sensitive magnetic materials, as demonstrated in Fe3GeTe2. It also ensures excellent interface contact quality and preserves the intrinsic magnetic properties in magnetic semiconductors like CrSBr. Remarkably, this method achieves a contact resistance four orders of magnitude lower than that achieved with traditional thermally evaporated electrodes in thin-layer CrSBr devices and enables the observation of sharp magnetic transitions similar to those observed with graphene vdW contacts. Compatible with standard dry-transfer processes and scalable to large wafer sizes, our approach provides a straightforward and effective solution for developing complex magnetic heterojunction devices and expanding the applications of magnetic 2D materials.
Dual Roles of Heterotrophic Ammonia-Oxidizing Bacteria in Enhancing Compensatory Growth upon Post-Drought in Maize
Authors: Yu Hao , Wang Xiao-Ling , Sun Run-Hong , Qi Lin , Song Peng , Wang Tong-Chao
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the mechanisms driving maize compensatory growth upon post-drought, to reveal how the root’s original cytokinins are regulated by the two-fold roles of heterotrophic bacteria with ammonia-oxidizing (HAOB) capabilities. The HAOB’ dual roles encompass influencing root cytokinin synthesis and transport through nitrification and a direct pathway. Experiment 1 involved introducing the application of varying amounts of NO3− to the roots to examine how nitrification affects cytokinin roots-to-leaves transport. Results demonstrate that the 30–40 mmol·L−1 NO3− concentration had ideal effects on enhancing post-drought growth in maize by facilitating cytokinin synthesis and transport. In experiment 2, an HAOB strain, S2_8_1, was utilized and NO3− was supplemented alongside HAOB inoculation to assess the joint impacts of nitrification and the direct pathway on the production and transportation of cytokinins. Results demonstrate that the HAOB strain S2_8_1 increases nitrification rates in rhizosphere soil, thereby promoting the transport of cytokinins from roots to leaves. In addition, the HAOB strain promotes root cytokinin transport to leaves autonomously, showcasing its direct pathway. Inoculation with the HAOB strain increased leaf cytokinin content and improved water use efficiency compared to the addition of NO3−; however, the combination of NO3− and HAOB strains resulted in a synergistic effect and further improvement. These findings elucidate how HAOB can enhance maize compensatory growth through its dual roles, presenting promising applications in agriculture.
A Case Series Report on the Effect of Tofacitinib on Joint Inflammation and Gut Microbiota Composition in Psoriatic Arthritis Patients Naive to Biologic Agents
Authors: Picchianti Diamanti Andrea , Panebianco Concetta , Di Gioia Valeria , Bellofatto Ilaria Anna , Salemi Simonetta , Di Rosa Roberta , Sesti Giorgio , Nalli Gabriele , Salerno Gerardo , Finocchiaro Etta , Laganà Bruno
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a complex condition within the Spondyloarthritis (SpA) group. Recent studies have focused on the important role of the intestinal microbiota in maintaining immunological homeostasis, highlighting how intestinal dysbiosis may act as a trigger for autoimmune diseases. Tofacitinib is a Janus kinase inhibitor (JAK-i) with proven efficacy for the treatment of both rheumatoid arthritis and PsA. However, there is a lack of data on its ability to reduce joint remission through ultrasonography (US) and the effects it might have on the composition of the gut microbiota. Methods: Here, we present a case series of seven bio-naïve PsA patients who received tofacitinib treatment and were followed up for 12 months. The clinical response was assessed using validated scores (DAPSA, ASDAS, and BASDAI), laboratory tests, and US assessment of the target joint and enthesis. Finally, we evaluated changes in the composition of the intestinal microbiota using next-generation sequencing analysis of fecal samples. Results: The patients in the study showed a significant improvement in all clinical scores used; this improvement was also confirmed by a significant reduction in the US synovitis scores. The data on the microbiota analysis suggested that the effectiveness of tofacitinib in ameliorating PsA activity was associated with a relevant modification of some gut bacterial lineages. No cases of severe adverse effects were reported. Conclusions: Treatment with tofacitinib proved to be effective, safe and capable of varying the composition of the gut microbiota by selecting bacterial strains considered beneficial in immune modulation.
Study of the Possibility to Combine Deep Learning Neural Networks for Recognition of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in Optoelectronic Surveillance Channels
Authors: Semenyuk Vladislav , Kurmashev Ildar , Alyoshin Dmitriy , Kurmasheva Liliya , Serbin Vasiliy , Cantelli-Forti Alessandro
Published: November 2024

This article explores the challenges of integrating two deep learning neural networks, YOLOv5 and RT-DETR, to enhance the recognition of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) within the optical-electronic channels of Sensor Fusion systems. The authors conducted an experimental study to test YOLOv5 and Faster RT-DETR in order to identify the average accuracy of UAV recognition. A dataset in the form of images of two classes of objects, UAVs, and birds, was prepared in advance. The total number of images, including augmentation, amounted to 6337. The authors implemented training, verification, and testing of the neural networks exploiting PyCharm 2024 IDE. Inference testing was conducted using six videos with UAV flights. On all test videos, RT-DETR-R50 was more accurate by an average of 18.7% in terms of average classification accuracy (Pc). In terms of operating speed, YOLOv5 was 3.4 ms more efficient. It has been established that the use of RT-DETR as the only module for UAV classification in optical-electronic detection channels is not effective due to the large volumes of calculations, which is due to the relatively large number of parameters. Based on the obtained results, an algorithm for combining two neural networks is proposed, which allows for increasing the accuracy of UAV and bird classification without significant losses in speed.
Interactions Between Cationic Micellar Solution and Aromatic Hydrotropes with Subtle Structural Variations
Authors: Liu Bin , Yin Shuo , Wu Xia , Wei Xilian , Xu Huifang , Li Jing , Lv Dongmei
Published: November 2024

Wormlike micelles (WLMs) with tunable viscoelastic characteristics have emerged as indispensable smart materials with a wide range of applications, which have garnered intense interest over the past few decades. However, quantitatively predicting the effect of various hydrotropes on the rheological behaviors of WLMs remains a challenge. In this article, micelles were formed in a mixture of 3-hexadecyloxy-2-hydroxypropyltrimethylammonium bromide (R16HTAB) and aromatic hydrotropes (e.g., sodium benzoate, sodium cinnamate and their derivatives, respectively) in an aqueous solution. The phase behavior, viscoelasticity and thickening mechanism were systematically studied by macroscopic observation, rheological measurements, electrostatic potential analysis and cryogenic transmission electron microscopy (Cryo-TEM). Rheological measurements were used to probe the remarkable viscoelastic properties of micelles stemming from their lengthening and entanglement under the interaction between R16HTAB and hydrotropes with structural variations. For an equimolar system of R16HTAB and cosolute (40 mM), the relaxation time decreases in the following order: SpMB > SoHB > S4MS > SmMB > S5MS > SB > SmHB > SoMB > SpHB. These results allow us to predict the possible rules for the self-assembly of R16HTAB and aromatic hydrotropes, which is conductive to directionally designing and synthesizing smart wormlike micelles.
Research Progress on Sesquiterpenes from the Genus Ainsliaea
Authors: Zhang Hui , Sun Ru-Ru , Liu Ya-Feng , Guo Xin , Li Chong-Long , Nan Ze-Dong , Jiang Zhi-Bo
Published: November 2024

Sesquiterpenes constitute the principal components of the genus Ainsliaea, encompassing guaiane, germacrane, eudesmane, and polymer sesquiterpene lactones types. These secondary metabolites exhibit diverse pharmacological activities, including antitumor, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, and neuroprotective effects. Through a comprehensive literature search of the Web of Science, PubMed, SciFinder, and CNKI databases, it was discovered that there are as many as 145 main sesquiterpenoids in the genus Ainsliaea. However, the nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) data for the sesquiterpenes in this genus have not been systematically compiled and summarized. Therefore, this review aims to highlight the chemical structures, NMR data, and pharmacological activities of sesquiterpenes in Ainsliaea. By meticulously analyzing published scholarly literature, our goal is to provide a solid foundation for further exploration of new sesquiterpenes and extensive utilization of this genus.
In Silico Mass Spectrometric Fragmentation and Liquid Chromatography with Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) Betalainic Fingerprinting: Identification of Betalains in Red Pitaya
Authors: Araujo-León Jesús Alfredo , Sánchez-del Pino Ivonne , Brito-Argáez Ligia Guadalupe , Peraza-Sánchez Sergio R. , Ortiz-Andrade Rolffy , Aguilar-Hernández Victor
Published: November 2024

Betalains, which contain nitrogen and are water soluble, are the pigments responsible for many traits of plants and biological activities in different organisms that do not produce them. To better annotate and identify betalains using a spectral library and fingerprint, a database catalog of 140 known betalains (112 betacyanins and 28 betaxanthins) was made in this work to simplify betalain identification in mass spectrometry analysis. Fragmented peaks obtained using MassFrontier, along with chemical structures and protonated precursor ions for each betalain, were added to the database. Product ions made in MS/MS and multistage MS analyses of betanin, beetroot extract, and red pitaya extract revealed the fingerprint of betalains, distinctive ions of betacyanin, betacyanin derivatives such as decarboxylated and dehydrogenated betacyanins, and betaxanthins. A distinctive ion with m/z 211.07 was found in betaxanthins. By using the fingerprint of betalains in the analysis of red pitaya extracts, the catalog of betalains in red pitaya was expanded to 86 (31 betacyanins, 36 betacyanin derivatives, and 19 betaxanthins). Four unknown betalains were detected to have the fingerprint of betalains, but further research will aid in revealing the complete structure. Taken together, we envisage that the further use of the fingerprint of betalains will increase the annotation coverage of identified molecules in studies related to revealing the biological function of betalains or making technologies based on these natural colorants.
B-Site-Ordered and Disordered Structures in A-Site-Ordered Quadruple Perovskites RMn3Ni2Mn2O12 with R = Nd, Sm, Gd, and Dy
Authors: Belik Alexei A. , Liu Ran , Tanaka Masahiko , Yamaura Kazunari
Published: November 2024

ABO3 perovskite materials with small cations at the A site, especially with ordered cation arrangements, have attracted a lot of interest because they show unusual physical properties and deviations from general perovskite tendencies. In this work, A-site-ordered quadruple perovskites, RMn3Ni2Mn2O12 with R = Nd, Sm, Gd, and Dy, were synthesized by a high-pressure, high-temperature method at about 6 GPa. Annealing at about 1500 K produced samples with additional (partial) B-site ordering of Ni2+ and Mn4+ cations, crystallizing in space group Pn–3. Annealing at about 1700 K produced samples with disordering of Ni2+ and Mn4+ cations, crystallizing in space group Im–3. However, magnetic properties were nearly identical for the Pn–3 and Im–3 modifications in comparison with ferromagnetic double perovskites R2NiMnO6, where the degree of Ni2+ and Mn4+ ordering has significant effects on magnetic properties. In RMn3Ni2Mn2O12, one magnetic transition was found at 26 K (for R = Nd), 23 K (for R = Sm), and 22 K (for R = Gd), and two transitions were found at 10 K and 36 K for R = Dy. Curie–Weiss temperatures were close to zero in all compounds, suggesting that antiferromagnetic and ferromagnetic interactions are of the same magnitude.
The Influence of the Chemical Composition of Beeswax Foundation Sheets on Their Acceptability by the Bee’s Colony
Authors: Ledjanac Sava , Hoxha Fatjon , Jasnić Nebojša , Tasić Aleksandra , Jovanović Marko , Blagojević Slavica , Plavša Nada , Tosti Tomislav
Published: November 2024

Beeswax is one of the most important products for the well-being of bee colonies. The wax glands of young worker bees produce beeswax, which serves as a building material for honeycomb construction. Beekeepers using hives with mobile frames mainly utilize local beeswax to make foundations. Any paraffin addition represents adulteration, resulting in a high degree of contamination. During the preparation of re-used beeswax, losses during the process may instigate producers to add cheaper, wax-like substances like paraffin and tallow. This article presents a systematic investigation of the quality of beeswax foundation from six major producers in Vojvodina, Serbia, by applying the classic analytical procedure for the determination of selected physicochemical parameters and instrumental gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC–MS) and Fourier transform infrared attenuated total reflection (FTIR–ATR) spectroscopy techniques. FTIR–ATR detected possible paraffin and beef tallow in 72 foundation sheet samples. This technique was complemented with GC–MS. This analysis revealed that paraffin content ranged between 19.75 and 85.68%, while no tallow was detected over the two-year period. Two sheets from each manufacturer were placed into wired Langstroth–Ruth frames and placed in beehives. The construction, based on built cells, was monitored every 24 h. Evaluating newly inserted sheets proved that without quality nectar, there is no intensive building, regardless of adulteration.
Lignin Isolated by Microwave-Assisted Acid-Catalyzed Solvolysis Induced Cell Death in Mammalian Tumor Cells by Modulating Apoptotic Pathways
Authors: Kashimoto Rio , Ohgitani Eriko , Makimura Yutaka , Miyazaki Tatsuya , Kimura Chihiro , Shin-Ya Masaharu , Nishimura Hiroshi , Pezzotti Giuseppe , Watanabe Takashi , Mazda Osam
Published: November 2024

Lignin, the most abundant renewable aromatic polymer, has been shown to suppress the growth of mammalian tumor cells. Despite extensive studies on lignin structure and its engineering, there is little information on the biological activity of lignin in relation to its molecular structure or the molecular mechanisms by which lignin suppresses tumor cells in mammalian species. Here, we prepared microwave-assisted acid-catalyzed solvolysis lignin (MASL) from Japanese cedar and Eucalyptus globulus and assessed its effects on human and mouse tumor cells. SEC indicated that MASL consists of oligomeric aromatics from the woody plants. Our data showed that MASL significantly reduced the viability of tumor cells by modulating apoptotic pathways. MASL treatment upregulated TNF-α, Fas, and FasL expression levels, while suppressing anti-apoptotic NF-κB and mTOR pathways in tumor cells. In vivo experiments were also performed using tumor-bearing mice to confirm the anti-tumor effects of MASL. Repetitive administrations of a MASL (YM CL1T) significantly inhibited tumor growth in mice in association with elevation of caspase 3 expression. These findings strongly suggest the potential usefulness of low-molecular-weight lignin as an effective therapeutic against malignancies.
Synthesis, Cytotoxicity and Antiproliferative Effect of New Pyrrole Hydrazones
Authors: Vladimirova Stanislava , Hristova Rossitsa , Iliev Ivan
Published: November 2024

Novel pyrrole-based carbohydrazide (1) and hydrazones (1A–D) were synthesized, characterized, and subjected to spectroscopic studies. The hydrazones were obtained by reacting a pyrrole hydrazide with substituted pyrrole aldehydes. The initial carbohydrazide was prepared by selective hydrazinolysis of the obtained N-pyrrolylcarboxylic acid ethyl ester. The biological activity of the newly synthesized compounds was investigated in vitro on a panel of tumor and non-tumor cell lines. Mouse embryonic fibroblasts BALB 3T3 clone A31 were used in the safety test (BALB 3T3 NRU-assay). Antiproliferative activity was determined on keratinocytes (HaCaT) and melanoma (SH-4) cells by MTT dye reduction assay. The safety test of the compounds showed low cytotoxicity and absence of phototoxic potential. Among our novel pyrrole hydrazones, 1C was the most selective (SI = 3.83) in human melanoma cells and exhibited very good antiproliferative activity (IC50 = 44.63 ± 3.51 μM). The cytotoxic effect of 1C correlates with its ability to induce apoptosis and to cause cell cycle arrest in the S phase. In addition, the results show that hydrazones obtained by condensation with β-aldehydes are more bioactive than those obtained by condensation with α-aldehydes.
Use of Adsorption Properties of Resin for Water Sample Preparation in Voltammetric Determination of Se(IV) Using Bismuth Microelectrode
Authors: Grabarczyk Malgorzata , Fialek Marzena , Wardak Cecylia
Published: November 2024

This paper proposes a simple, environmentally friendly, and efficient procedure for preparing natural water samples for the voltammetric determination of trace amounts of Se(IV). The method is based on premixing a sample with Amberlite XAD-7 resin at 50 °C. The composition of the 10 mL solution consists of the sample to be analysed, 0.1 mol L−1 of acetate buffer at pH = 4.0, and 0.5 g of Amberlite XAD-7. After 2 min of stirring, a voltammetric measurement is carried out using a fixed bismuth microelectrode using the following potentials: −2.5 V for 2 s and −0.55 V for 30 s. The voltammetry is recorded by varying the potential from −400 mV to −1000 mV. An undisturbed Se(IV) signal is obtained in the presence of 10 mg L−1 of Triton X-100, 5 mg L−1 of SDS, 10 mg L−1 of CTAB, 5 mg L−1 of Rhamnolipid, 5 mg L−1 of HA, 10 mg L−1 of FA, and 2 mg L−1 of NOM. The validity of the developed procedure is checked by analysing the certified reference materials SPS-SW1 (surface water) and TM-25.5 (Lake Ontario water) additionally enriched with surfactants and humic substances.
The Role of Unsaturated Fatty Acid-Rich Dairy Products in Adipocyte Metabolism
Authors: Machado Manuela , Costa Eduardo M. , Silva Sara , Gomes Ana Maria , Pintado Manuela
Published: November 2024

This study investigated the fatty acid profile, permeability, and metabolic effects of a functional yogurt enriched with pomegranate oil, focusing on its impact on lipid metabolism and inflammatory responses. The yogurt’s fatty acid composition was primarily composed of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (54.37%), followed by saturated (29.34%) and monounsaturated fatty acids (16.36%). During in vitro digestion, a shift in fatty acid profile was observed, with a decrease in polyunsaturated and saturated fatty acids and a slight increase in monounsaturated fatty acids due to hydrolysis. This study further analyzed fatty acid permeability across Caco-2/HT29-MTX monolayers and 3T3-L1 cell uptake, revealing higher permeability for saturated fatty acids than unsaturated ones. In 3T3-L1 cells, permeated fatty acids induced higher lipolysis and increased adiponectin secretion without affecting leptin levels. Cytokine analysis indicated a decrease in pro-inflammatory markers, such as MCP-1, and a significant increase in anti-inflammatory cytokines like IL-10, suggesting potential benefits in reducing obesity-related inflammation. These results underscore the role of functional yogurts enriched with polyunsaturated fatty acids as promising agents for modulating lipid metabolism and inflammatory responses.
Lead Catalyzed GaAs Nanowires Grown by Molecular Beam Epitaxy
Authors: Shtrom Igor V. , Sibirev Nickolai V. , Soshnikov Ilya P. , Ilkiv Igor V. , Ubyivovk Evgenii V. , Reznik Rodion R. , Cirlin George E.
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the growth of gallium arsenide nanowires, using lead as a catalyst. Typically, nanowires are grown through the vapor–solid–liquid mechanism, where a key factor is the reduction in the nucleation barrier beneath the catalyst droplet. Arsenic exhibits limited solubility in conventional catalysts; however, this research explores an alternative scenario in which lead serves as a solvent for arsenic, while gallium and lead are immiscible liquids. Liquid lead easily dissolves in Si as well as in GaAs. The preservation of the catalyst during the growth process is also addressed. GaAs nanowires have been grown by molecular beam epitaxy on silicon Si (111) substrates at varying temperatures. Observations indicate the spontaneous doping of the GaAs nanowires with both lead and silicon. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the VLS mechanism involved in nanowire growth. They are also an important step in the study of GaAs nanowire-doping processes.
Novel Spectroscopic Studies of the Interaction of Three Different Types of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles with Albumin
Authors: Abarova Silviya , Grancharova Tsenka , Zagorchev Plamen , Tenchov Boris , Pilicheva Bissera
Published: November 2024

In the present work, we studied the interactions of three types of iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) with human serum albumin (HSA) by fluorescence and UV-Vis spectroscopy. The determined binding parameters of the reactions and the thermodynamic parameters, including ΔHo, ΔSo, and ΔGo indicated that electrostatic forces play a major role in the interaction of IONPs with HSA. These measurements indicate a fluorescent quenching mechanism based on IONPs-HSA static complex formation. Our study shows that the interaction between HSA and IONPs depends on the nanoparticle structure. The interaction between IONPs and HSA was found to be spontaneous, exothermic, and entropy-driven. HSA was shown to interact moderately with IONPs obtained with plant extracts of Uncaria tomentosa L. (IONP@UT) and Clinopodium vulgare L. (IONP@CV), and firmly with IONPs prepared with Ganoderma lingzhi (Reishi) extract (IONP@GL), via ground-state association. Analysis by modified Stern-Volmer approximation indicates that the quenching mechanism is static. Our study significantly improves our understanding of the mechanisms of interaction, distribution, and transport involved in the interaction between proteins and IONPs. It provides crucial insights into the functional perturbations of albumin binding capacity and the effects of IONPs on the stability and structural modifications of plasma carrier proteins.
Investigation of Buckling Behaviors in Carbon Nanorings Using the Chebyshev–Ritz Method
Authors: Wang Xiaobo , Kuang Guowen , Tian Hongmei , Shao Zhibin , Dong Ning , Lin Tao , Huang Li
Published: November 2024

Carbon nanorings (CNRs) serve as an ideal quantum system for novel electronic and magnetic properties. Although extensive theoretical studies utilizing molecular dynamics (MD) simulations have investigated the formation and structural characteristics of CNRs, systematically analyzing their properties across various toric sizes remains challenging due to the inherent complexity of this system. In this study, we introduce a novel finite element method, the Chebyshev–Ritz method, as an alternative approach to investigating the structural properties of CNRs. Previous MD simulations demonstrated that stable CNRs adopt a regular buckled shape at specific toric sizes. By meticulously selecting mechanical parameters, we observe that the critical deformation of a CNR with 50 repeated units, as determined by the Chebyshev–Ritz method, aligns with an MD simulation presenting a buckling number of 14. Additionally, the implementation of the Chebyshev–Ritz method with a constant mechanical parameter for 50 repeated units reveals a structural transition at varying toric sizes, leading to the stabilization of buckling numbers 13, 14, and 15. This structural transition across different buckling modes has also been corroborated by MD simulations. Our approach offers a reliable and accurate means of examining the structural properties of large-scale nanomaterials and paves the way for further exploration in nanoscale mechanics.
Social and Nutritional Profiles of Pregnant Women: A Cluster Analysis on the “MAMI-MED” Cohort
Authors: Favara Giuliana , Maugeri Andrea , Barchitta Martina , Magnano San Lio Roberta , La Rosa Maria Clara , La Mastra Claudia , Galvani Fabiola , Pappalardo Elisa , Ettore Carla , Ettore Giuseppe , Agodi Antonella
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: During the pre-conceptional period, addressing social determinants of health (SDOH) is essential for reducing maternal health disparities, particularly among disadvantaged groups. Key SDOH factors such as income, education, and healthcare access significantly influence maternal and infant outcomes, increasing risks like miscarriage, preterm birth, and pregnancy complications. Here, we aimed to explore maternal and neonatal characteristics according to socio-economic status. Thus, we identified clusters of pregnant women with similar social and behavioral characteristics and explored their variability in terms of neonatal outcomes. Methods: Data from 1512 pregnant women in the “MAMI-MED” cohort at ARNAS Garibaldi Nesima in Catania were analyzed. A two-step cluster analysis grouped the women based on education level, employment status, pre-pregnancy nutritional status, and Mediterranean diet score (MDS). Results: Two clusters of pregnant women were identified. Cluster 1 (n = 739) consisted of women with lower educational attainment who were unemployed, overweight and/or obese, and had a lower mean MDS. Instead, cluster 2 (n = 773) was mostly characterized by women with a medium–high level of education who were employed, had normal weight, and had a higher average MDS. Women in cluster 1 had significantly higher proportions of preterm births (p = 0.004), low-birth weight newborns (p = 0.002), and large-for-gestational-age newborns. Differences in gestational week (p < 0.001), birth weight (p < 0.001), and newborn length (p = 0.004) were also noted between the two clusters. Conclusions: Cluster analysis can help identify high-risk groups who may benefit from personalized public health interventions. Our results highlight the need to examine the complex interactions between socio-demographic, behavioral, and genetic factors that contribute to maternal–infant health.
Sarcopenia in the Oldest-Old Adults in the Capital of Brazil: Prevalence and Its Associated Risk Factors
Authors: Pinheiro Hudson , Menezes Ruth , de Souza Cardoso Camila , da Silva Filho Rômulo , Registre Farah , de Oliveira César , Silveira Erika
Published: November 2024

Background: In light of the demographic context in which the older adult population is prominent, sarcopenia emerges as a significant concern for the health of these individuals. Aim: To assess the frequency of sarcopenia and severe sarcopenia and the associated risk factors in the oldest adults living in the community. Methods: There were 399 participants aged 80 or older, of both sexes, using primary health care services in the metropolitan area of Brasília, Brazil. Sarcopenia was evaluated based on European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People 2 (EWGSOP2). Muscle mass was measured by calf circumference, muscle function by handgrip strength, and muscle performance by gait speed. Clinical and socioeconomic variables, comorbidities, falls, and urinary incontinence were collected. The prevalence of sarcopenia was calculated with a 95% (IC) prevalence. Multivariate Poisson regression analysis was performed in Stata, with p < 5%. Results: Among participants, 78.2% were women. Prevalence of pre-sarcopenia was 31.8%, sarcopenia 3.3%, and severe sarcopenia 25.1%. After multivariate regression, sarcopenia was associated with the female sex, low weight, and a dependency for activities of daily living (ADLs). Similarly, severe sarcopenia remained associated with female sex, low weight, and an ADLs dependency. Sarcopenia and severe sarcopenia were not associated with the level of education, marital status, income, physical activity, medications, falls, nor comorbidities. Conclusions: A quarter of older adults had severe sarcopenia. Sarcopenia and severe sarcopenia were associated with being a woman, being low weight, and have an ADLs dependence.