bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimentation of Heat-Insulating Materials for Surrounding Rocks in Deep Mines and Simulation Study of Temperature Reduction
Authors: Deng Hongwei , Xiao Yuanzhe
Published: September 2024

With the increasing depletion of shallow resources, mining has gradually shifted to deeper levels, and the high-temperature problem of deep mining has restricted the efficient and safe development of mining. In this study, five types of thermal insulation materials for surrounding rocks with different ratios were produced using tailings, P.O.32.5 clinker, aluminum powder, glass beads, quick lime, and slaked lime as test materials. Based on the uniaxial compression test, the thermal constant analysis test, and numerical simulation analysis technology, the change rule of mortar compressive strength and thermal conductivity was analyzed, and the cooling effect of surrounding-rock thermal insulation materials with different ratios was discussed. The results showed that the compressive strength of the surrounding-rock thermal insulation materials ranged from 0.39 to 0.53 MPa, and the thermal conductivity ranged from 0.261 to 0.387 W/(K·m), with the compressive strength of ratio E being the largest and the thermal conductivity of ratio A being the lowest. In the numerical simulation analysis results, the thermal insulation layer thickness was taken as a value of 10 cm when, at this time, the best thermal insulation effect and economic benefits involved a temperature reduction of 0.9 K. In the case of changing the thermal conductivity and inlet wind speed, the original temperature of the rock temperature reduction was also very clear, with maximum reductions of 0.92 K, 0.92 K, and 1.42 K.
Conformational Analysis and Organocatalytic Activity of Helical Stapled Peptides Containing α-Carbocyclic α,α-Disubstituted α-Amino Acids
Authors: Iyoshi Akihiro , Ueda Atsushi , Umeno Tomohiro , Kato Takuma , Hirayama Kazuhiro , Doi Mitsunobu , Tanaka Masakazu
Published: September 2024

Conformational freedom-restricted peptides, such as stapled peptides, play a crucial role in the advancement of functional peptide development. We synthesized stapled octapeptides using α-carbocyclic α,α-disubstituted α-amino acids, particularly 3-allyloxy-1-aminocyclopentane-1-carboxylic acid, as the crosslink motifs. The organocatalytic capabilities of the synthesized stapled peptides were assessed in an asymmetric nucleophilic epoxidation reaction because the catalytic activities are known to be proportional to α-helicity. Despite incorporating side-chain crosslinks, the enantioselectivities of the epoxidation reaction catalyzed by stapled octapeptides were found to be comparable to those obtained using unstapled peptides. Interestingly, the stapled peptides using α-carbocyclic α,α-disubstituted α-amino acids demonstrated higher reactivities and stereoselectivities (up to 99% ee) compared to stapled peptides derived from (S)-α-(4-pentenyl)alanine, a commonly used motif for stapled peptides. These differences could be attributed to the increased α-helicity of the former stapled peptide in contrast to the latter, as evidenced by the X-ray crystallographic structures of their N-tert-butoxycarbonyl derivatives.
Discovery of Substituted 5-(2-Hydroxybenzoyl)-2-Pyridone Analogues as Inhibitors of the Human Caf1/CNOT7 Ribonuclease
Authors: Kaur Ishwinder , Jadhav Gopal P. , Fischer Peter M. , Winkler Gerlof Sebastiaan
Published: September 2024

The Caf1/CNOT7 nuclease is a catalytic component of the Ccr4-Not deadenylase complex, which is a key regulator of post-transcriptional gene regulation. In addition to providing catalytic activity, Caf1/CNOT7 and its paralogue Caf1/CNOT8 also contribute a structural function by mediating interactions between the large, non-catalytic subunit CNOT1, which forms the backbone of the Ccr4-Not complex and the second nuclease subunit Ccr4 (CNOT6/CNOT6L). To facilitate investigations into the role of Caf1/CNOT7 in gene regulation, we aimed to discover and develop non-nucleoside inhibitors of the enzyme. Here, we disclose that the tri-substituted 2-pyridone compound 5-(5-bromo-2-hydroxy-benzoyl)-1-(4-chloro-2-methoxy-5-methyl-phenyl)-2-oxo-pyridine-3-carbonitrile is an inhibitor of the Caf1/CNOT7 nuclease. Using a fluorescence-based nuclease assay, the activity of 16 structural analogues was determined, which predominantly explored substituents on the 1-phenyl group. While no compound with higher potency was identified among this set of structural analogues, the lowest potency was observed with the analogue lacking substituents on the 1-phenyl group. This indicates that substituents on the 1-phenyl group contribute significantly to binding. To identify possible binding modes of the inhibitors, molecular docking was carried out. This analysis suggested that the binding modes of the five most potent inhibitors may display similar conformations upon binding active site residues. Possible interactions include π-π interactions with His225, hydrogen bonding with the backbone of Phe43 and Van der Waals interactions with His225, Leu209, Leu112 and Leu115.
Catalytic Reduction of Aromatic Nitro Compounds to Phenylhydroxylamine and Its Derivatives
Authors: Yu Min , Ouyang Dachen , Wang Liqiang , Liu You-Nian
Published: September 2024

Phenylhydroxylamine and its derivates (PHAs) are important chemical intermediates. Phenylhydroxylamines are mainly produced via the catalytic reduction of aromatic nitro compounds. However, this catalytic reduction method prefers to generate thermodynamically stable aromatic amine. Thus, designing suitable catalytic systems, especially catalysts to selectively convert aromatic nitro compounds to PHAs, has received increasing attention but remains challenging. In this review, we initially provide a brief overview of the various strategies employed for the synthesis of PHAs, focusing on reducing aromatic nitro compounds. Subsequently, an in-depth analysis is presented on the catalytic reduction process, encompassing discussions on catalysts, reductants, hydrogen sources, and a comprehensive assessment of the merits and drawbacks of various catalytic systems. Furthermore, a concise overview is provided regarding the progress made in comprehending the mechanisms involved in this process of catalytic reduction of aromatic nitro compounds. Finally, the main challenges and prospects in PHAs’ production via catalytic reduction are outlined.
Two-Dimensional Polarized Blue P/SiS Heterostructures as Promising Photocatalysts for Water Splitting
Authors: Liu Yin , Gu Di , Tao Xiaoma , Ouyang Yifang , Duan Chunyan , Liang Guangxing
Published: September 2024

Two-dimensional (2D) polarized heterostructures with internal electric fields are potential photocatalysts for high catalytic performance. The Blue P/SiS van der Waals heterostructures were formed from monolayer Blue P and polar monolayer SiS with different stacking interfaces, including Si-P and P-S interfaces. The structural, electronic, optical and photocatalytic properties of the Blue P/SiS heterostructures were studied via first-principle calculations. The results showed that the Si-P-2 or P-S-4 stacking order contributes to the most stable heterostructure with the Si-P or P-S interface. The direction of the internal electric field is from the 001 surface toward the 001¯ surface, which is helpful for separating photo-generated electron–hole pairs. The bandgap and electrostatic potential differences in the Si-P-2(P-S-4) heterostructures are 1.74 eV (2.30 eV) and 0.287 eV (0.181 eV), respectively. Moreover, the Si-P-2(P-S-4) heterostructures possess suitable band alignment and wide ultraviolet and visible light spectrum regions. All results suggest that 2D polarized Blue P/SiS heterostructures are potential novel photocatalysts for water splitting under a wide ultraviolet and visible light spectrum region.
Electronic Nose Analysis of Exhaled Breath Volatile Organic Compound Profiles during Normoxia, Hypoxia, and Hyperoxia
Authors: Tondo Pasquale , Scioscia Giulia , Di Marco Marcin , Quaranta Vitaliano Nicola , Campanino Terence , Palmieri Giuseppe , Portacci Andrea , Santamato Andrea , Lacedonia Donato , Carpagnano Giovanna Elisiana , Dragonieri Silvano
Published: September 2024

This study investigates volatile organic compound (VOC) profiles in the exhaled breath of normal subjects under different oxygenation conditions—normoxia (FiO2 21%), hypoxia (FiO2 11%), and hyperoxia (FiO2 35%)—using an electronic nose (e-nose). We aim to identify significant differences in VOC profiles among the three conditions utilizing principal component analysis (PCA) and canonical discriminant analysis (CDA). Our results indicate distinct VOC patterns corresponding to each oxygenation state, demonstrating the potential of e-nose technology in detecting physiological changes in breath composition (cross-validated accuracy values: FiO2 21% vs. FiO2 11% = 63%, FiO2 11% vs. FiO2 35% = 65%, FiO2 21% vs. FiO2 35% = 71%, and p < 0.05 for all). This research underscores the viability of breathomics in the non-invasive monitoring and diagnostics of various respiratory and systemic conditions.
Medical Applications and Cellular Mechanisms of Action of Carboxymethyl Chitosan Hydrogels
Authors: Kruczkowska Weronika , Kłosiński Karol Kamil , Grabowska Katarzyna Helena , Gałęziewska Julia , Gromek Piotr , Kciuk Mateusz , Kałuzińska-Kołat Żaneta , Kołat Damian , Wach Radosław A.
Published: September 2024

Carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS) hydrogels have been investigated in biomedical research because of their versatile properties that make them suitable for various medical applications. Key properties that are especially valuable for biomedical use include biocompatibility, tailored solid-like mechanical characteristics, biodegradability, antibacterial activity, moisture retention, and pH stimuli-sensitive swelling. These features offer advantages such as enhanced healing, promotion of granulation tissue formation, and facilitation of neutrophil migration. As a result, CMCS hydrogels are favorable materials for applications in biopharmaceuticals, drug delivery systems, wound healing, tissue engineering, and more. Understanding the interactions between CMCS hydrogels and biological systems, with a focus on their influence on cellular behavior, is crucial for leveraging their versatility. Because of the constantly growing interest in chitosan and its derivative hydrogels in biomedical research and applications, the present review aims to provide updated insights into the potential medical applications of CMCS based on recent findings. Additionally, we comprehensively elucidated the cellular mechanisms underlying the actions of these hydrogels in medical settings. In summary, this paper recapitulates valuable data gathered from the current literature, offering perspectives for further development and utilization of carboxymethyl hydrogels in various medical contexts.
Correction: Mansoor et al. Synthesis and Characterization of Titanium Oxide Nanoparticles with a Novel Biogenic Process for Dental Application. Nanomaterials 2022, 12, 1078
Authors: Mansoor Afsheen , Khan Muhammad Talal , Mehmood Mazhar , Khurshid Zohaib , Ali Muhammad Ishtiaq , Jamal Asif
Published: September 2024

In the original publication [...]
Advancements in Engineering Planar Model Cell Membranes: Current Techniques, Applications, and Future Perspectives
Authors: Coronado Sara , Herrera Johan , Pino María Graciela , Martín Santiago , Ballesteros-Rueda Luz , Cea Pilar
Published: September 2024

Cell membranes are crucial elements in living organisms, serving as protective barriers and providing structural support for cells. They regulate numerous exchange and communication processes between cells and their environment, including interactions with other cells, tissues, ions, xenobiotics, and drugs. However, the complexity and heterogeneity of cell membranes—comprising two asymmetric layers with varying compositions across different cell types and states (e.g., healthy vs. diseased)—along with the challenges of manipulating real cell membranes represent significant obstacles for in vivo studies. To address these challenges, researchers have developed various methodologies to create model cell membranes or membrane fragments, including mono- or bilayers organized in planar systems. These models facilitate fundamental studies on membrane component interactions as well as the interactions of membrane components with external agents, such as drugs, nanoparticles (NPs), or biomarkers. The applications of model cell membranes have extended beyond basic research, encompassing areas such as biosensing and nanoparticle camouflage to evade immune detection. In this review, we highlight advancements in the engineering of planar model cell membranes, focusing on the nanoarchitectonic tools used for their fabrication. We also discuss approaches for incorporating challenging materials, such as proteins and enzymes, into these models. Finally, we present our view on future perspectives in the field of planar model cell membranes.
Effects of Replacing Cow’s Milk with Plant-Based Beverages on Potential Nutrient Intake in Sustainable Healthy Dietary Patterns: A Case Study
Authors: Biscotti Paola , Tucci Massimiliano , Angelino Donato , Vinelli Valentina , Pellegrini Nicoletta , Del Bo’ Cristian , Riso Patrizia , Martini Daniela
Published: September 2024

More consumers are replacing cow’s milk (CM) with plant-based drinks (PBD), but data indicating the nutritional impact are limited. This theoretical study aims to assess the effect of substituting CM with PBD sold in Italy on nutrient intake within two dietary patterns: one aligned with the EAT-Lancet Commission reference diet adapted to Italian food habits (EAT-IT) and another one in line with the Italian Dietary Guidelines (IDG). Nutrition information from 368 PBD were collected and categorized according to their descriptive name and their fortification or not with calcium (Ca- and nCa-fortified). The substitution of CM with each PBD category in both dietary patterns was conducted, and an analysis of nutrient content and adequacy was performed. Substituting CM with all PBD resulted in reduced protein intake, except for nCa-fortified soy drinks, decreased saturated fat and vitamins B2 and B12, and increased fiber intake. Replacing CM with nCa-fortified PBD within both diets decreased Ca intake. Following the substitution of CM with Ca-fortified PBD, variations in vitamin D intake depended on the PBD category. The main risk of nutritional inadequacy was observed in Ca and vitamin D levels, which may even be amplified considering the different bioavailability based on the source of nutrients. This study highlighted the important role of CM in meeting calcium requirements and the potential unintended consequences of substituting CM with PBD without considering their nutritional differences.
Generational Diet-Induced Obesity Remodels the Omental Adipose Proteome in Female Mice
Authors: Schuster-Little Naviya , McCabe Morgan , Nenninger Kayla , Safavi-Sohi Reihaneh , Whelan Rebecca J. , Hilliard Tyvette S.
Published: September 2024

Obesity, a complex condition that involves genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors, is a non-infectious pandemic that affects over 650 million adults worldwide with a rapidly growing prevalence. A major contributor is the consumption of high-fat diets, an increasingly common feature of modern diets. Maternal obesity results in an increased risk of offspring developing obesity and related health problems; however, the impact of maternal diet on the adipose tissue composition of offspring has not been evaluated. Here, we designed a generational diet-induced obesity study in female C57BL/6 mice that included maternal cohorts and their female offspring fed either a control diet (10% fat) or a high-fat diet (45% fat) and examined the visceral adipose proteome. Solubilizing proteins from adipose tissue is challenging due to the need for high concentrations of detergents; however, the use of a detergent-compatible sample preparation strategy based on suspension trapping (S-Trap) enabled label-free quantitative bottom-up analysis of the adipose proteome. We identified differentially expressed proteins related to lipid metabolism, inflammatory disease, immune response, and cancer, providing valuable molecular-level insight into how maternal obesity impacts the health of offspring. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with the identifier PXD042092.
Evaluation of Polyphenol Intake in Pregnant Women from South-Eastern Spain and the Effect on Anthropometric Measures at Birth and Gestational Age
Authors: Hinojosa-Nogueira Daniel , Romero-Molina Desirée , González-Alzaga Beatriz , Giménez-Asensio María José , Hernandez Antonio F. , Navajas-Porras Beatriz , Delgado-Osorio Adriana , Gomez-Martin Antonio , Pérez-Burillo Sergio , Pastoriza de la Cueva Silvia , Lacasaña Marina , Rufián-Henares José Ángel
Published: September 2024

During pregnancy, controlling nutrition is crucial for the health of both mother and foetus. While polyphenols have positive health effects, some studies show harmful outcomes during pregnancy. This study evaluated polyphenol intake in a cohort of mother–child pairs and examined its effects on foetal anthropometric parameters. Polyphenol intake was assessed using food frequency questionnaires (FFQs) and 24-h dietary recalls, and analysed with the Phenol-Explorer database. Gestational age and birth measurements were retrieved from medical records. Statistical analyses validated dietary records and assessed polyphenol impact using multivariate generalised linear models. The study found that mean gestational age was 39.6 weeks, with a mean birth weight of 3.33 kg. Mean total polyphenol intake by FFQ was 2231 mg/day, slightly higher than 24-h recall data. Flavonoids and phenolic acids constituted 52% and 37% of intake, respectively, with fruits and legumes as primary sources. This study highlights the use of FFQs to estimate polyphenol intake. Furthermore, the study found associations between polyphenol consumption and anthropometric parameters at birth, with the effects varying depending on the type of polyphenol. However, a more precise evaluation of individual polyphenol intake is necessary to determine whether the effects they produce during pregnancy may be harmful or beneficial for foetal growth.
Anxiolytic and Antidepressant Effects of Tribulus terrestris Ethanolic Extract in Scopolamine-Induced Amnesia in Zebrafish: Supported by Molecular Docking Investigation Targeting Monoamine Oxidase A
Authors: Bouabdallah Salwa , Ibrahim Mona H. , Brinza Ion , Boiangiu Razvan Stefan , Honceriu Iasmina , Amin Amr , Ben-Attia Mossadok , Hritcu Lucian
Published: September 2024

Plants of the genus Tribulus have been used in folk medicine for wound healing, alleviating liver, stomach, and rheumatism pains, and as cognitive enhancers, sedatives, antiseptics, tonics, and stimulants. The present work aimed to evaluate whether Tribulus terrestris (Tt) administered for 15 days attenuated cognitive deficits and exhibited anxiolytic and antidepressant profiles in scopolamine-induced amnesia in zebrafish. Animals were randomly divided into six groups (eight animals per group): (1)–(3) Tt treatment groups (1, 3 and 6 mg/L), (4) control, (5) scopolamine (SCOP, 0.7 mg/kg), and (6) galantamine (Gal, 1 mg/L). Exposure to SCOP (100 µM) resulted in anxiety in zebrafish, as assessed by the novel tank diving test (NTT) and novel approach test (NAT). When zebrafish were given SCOP and simultaneously given Tt (1, 3, and 6 mg/L once daily for 10 days), the deficits were averted. Molecular interactions of chemical compounds from the Tt fractions with the monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) were investigated via molecular docking experiments. Using behavioral experiments, we showed that administration of Tt induces significant anxiolytic-antidepressant-like effects in SCOP-treated zebrafish. Our result indicated that flavonoids of Tt, namely kaempferol, quercetin, luteolin, apigetrin, and epigallocatechin, could act as promising phytopharmaceuticals for improving anxiety-related disorders.
Evaluating Public Behavior toward Antibiotic Use in Riyadh: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Alfagih Sarah A. , Albabtain Monirah A. , Alfagih Muaath , Alharbi Nouf
Published: September 2024

Background: Antibiotic resistance presents a global challenge. Community awareness of antibiotic use has not been studied extensively in Saudi Arabia. This study aimed to assess public awareness of the appropriate use and indications of antibiotics in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, the responses were compared across gender and age groups. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study between September 2022 and October 2022, including adult participants from Riyadh. The questionnaires were distributed via electronic channels and included sections about participants’ sociodemographic data and behavior concerning antibiotic use. Results: This study included 453 respondents. There were 281 (62%) female and 172 (38%) male respondents. Most respondents were between 46 and 55 years (n = 111; 24.5%) and above 56 years (n = 134; 29.6%). Two hundred seventy-two (60%) were college/university graduates, and 113 (24.9%) were at the secondary school level. Most participants (n = 410; 90.5%) were not affiliated with or working in the health sector. One hundred thirty-nine (30.7%) participants used an antibiotic within the past six months, and 171 (37.7%) kept antibiotics at room temperature. Most participants (n = 380; 83.9%) completed the treatment plan as prescribed. Sixty-eight percent of respondents stopped taking antibiotics when they felt better, and 11.5% believed antibiotics can treat bacterial and viral infections. The responses were compared between patients of both genders and patients aged ≤55 years or older. The comparison indicated that females tended to store antibiotics as instructed by the manufacturer (p = 0.004) and disposed of the remaining antibiotics immediately after completing the treatment (p < 0.001). Furthermore, the indications for antibiotic use differed between the genders, with no difference between the age groups. Participants > 55 years tended to complete the treatment plan (p = 0.007) and continued taking antibiotics at the same time and dose as prescribed (p = 0.002). Conclusions: This study’s findings suggest that public health authorities should implement awareness intervention programs to educate the Riyadh community on the proper use of antibiotics, with target interventions for specific gender and age groups. This study’s findings should be interpreted in the context of the Riyadh community and the potential biases of cross-sectional studies.
Applications of Chitosan in Prevention and Treatment Strategies of Infectious Diseases
Authors: Sinani Genada , Sessevmez Melike , Şenel Sevda
Published: September 2024

Chitosan is the most commonly investigated functional cationic biopolymer in a wide range of medical applications due to its promising properties such as biocompatibility, biodegradability, and bioadhesivity, as well as its numerous bioactive properties. Within the last three decades, chitosan and its derivatives have been investigated as biomaterials for drug and vaccine delivery systems, besides for their bioactive properties. Due to the functional groups in its structure, it is possible to tailor the delivery systems with desired properties. There has been a great interest in the application of chitosan-based systems also for the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases, specifically due to their antimicrobial, antiviral, and immunostimulatory effects. In this review, recent applications of chitosan in the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases are reviewed, and possibilities and limitations with regards to technical and regulatory aspects are discussed. Finally, the future perspectives on utilization of chitosan as a biomaterial are discussed.
Characterizing Extracellular Vesicles Generated from the Integra CELLine Culture System and Their Endocytic Pathways for Intracellular Drug Delivery
Authors: Geng Tianjiao , Tian Lei , Paek Song Yee , Leung Euphemia , Chamley Lawrence W. , Wu Zimei
Published: September 2024

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have attracted great attention as promising intracellular drug delivery carriers. While the endocytic pathways of small EVs (sEVs, <200 nm) have been reported, there is limited understanding of large EVs (lEVs, >200 nm), despite their potential applications for drug delivery. Additionally, the low yield of EVs during isolation remains a major challenge in their application. Herein, we aimed to compare the endocytic pathways of sEVs and lEVs using MIA PaCa-2 pancreatic cancer cell-derived EVs as models and to explore the efficiency of their production. The cellular uptake of EVs by MIA PaCa-2 cells was assessed and the pathways were investigated with the aid of endocytic inhibitors. The yield and protein content of sEVs and lEVs from the Integra CELLine culture system and the conventional flasks were compared. Our findings revealed that both sEVs and lEVs produced by the Integra CELLine system entered their parental cells via multiple routes, including caveolin-mediated endocytosis, clathrin-mediated endocytosis, and actin-dependent phagocytosis or macropinocytosis. Notably, caveolin- and clathrin-mediated endocytosis were more prominent in the uptake of sEVs, while actin-dependent phagocytosis and macropinocytosis were significant for both sEVs and lEVs. Compared with conventional flasks, the Integra CELLine system demonstrated a 9-fold increase in sEVs yield and a 6.5-fold increase in lEVs yield, along with 3- to 4-fold higher protein content per 1010 EVs. Given that different endocytic pathways led to distinct intracellular trafficking routes, this study highlights the unique potentials of sEVs and lEVs for intracellular cargo delivery. The Integra CELLine proves to be a highly productive and cost-effective system for generating EVs with favourable properties for drug delivery.
Improving the Monitoring and Management of Clozapine-Induced Gastrointestinal Hypomotility (CIGH) in Community Mental Health Services: A Quality Improvement Approach
Authors: Adam Balazs , Ayad Osama
Published: September 2024

Clozapine is the only approved antipsychotic for refractory schizophrenia to date. It can cause a range of serious and fatal adverse effects, including Clozapine-Induced Gastrointestinal Hypomotility (CIGH). While guidance is readily available to help manage CIGH effectively in hospital inpatients, practical recommendations applicable to the community (outpatient) setting are lacking. This project set out to improve the prevention, detection and management of CIGH in psychiatric outpatients. An initial baseline audit followed by quality improvement work was undertaken in a busy support worker-run community clozapine clinic focusing on, education and training, risk assessments and clinical documentation. The project was registered and managed using the Life QI web-based platform, where a set of primary and secondary drivers were defined and change ideas were executed. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected over a three-month period, demonstrating a significant improvement in clinical documentation (up from 36% to 99%). 23% of enhanced risk assessments resulted in treatment recommendations, modifiable risk factors were proactively discussed in 53% of clinic appointments and 65% of patients were provided with additional written information on CIGH. It was evident from staff and our patient feedback that further efforts would be required to continue to raise awareness about harms of unmanaged constipation among this client group. Future approaches may include enhanced collaborative efforts with primary care, and improving the skill mix in existing clozapine clinics, which could include the utilisation of mental health pharmacists.
Advances in High-Efficiency Blue OLED Materials
Authors: Yang Xiaoxue , Mu Ge , Weng Kangkang , Tang Xin
Published: September 2024

Organic light-emitting diode (OLED) technology has rapidly emerged in the display and lighting sectors due to its high contrast ratio, wide viewing angle, and sleek design. Beyond these attributes, OLEDs have also demonstrated crucial applications in medicine, fashion, sports, and more, leveraging their emissive properties and flexible design. As the cornerstone of full-color displays, blue OLEDs, whose performance directly impacts color rendition and saturation, have garnered significant attention from both scientific researchers and industrial practitioners. Despite the numerous advantages of OLED technology, blue OLEDs still confront formidable challenges in terms of luminous efficiency, durability, and material stability. This review examines the evolution of blue OLED materials over recent years, specifically focusing on three generations: fluorescent, phosphorescent, and thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF). Through molecular design, device structure optimization, and the application of innovative technologies, remarkable advancements have been achieved in enhancing the luminous efficiency, lifetime, and color purity of blue OLEDs. However, to advance commercialization, future efforts must not only ensure high efficiency and long lifetime but also improve material stability, environmental sustainability, and reduce development costs. Emerging materials such as thermally activated exciton materials and the application of hyperfluorescent (HF) OLED technology represent vital driving forces for the continuous advancement of blue OLED technology. It is anticipated that significant milestones will continue to be achieved in the development of highly efficient blue OLEDs in the future.
Poly-d,l-lactic Acid (PDLLA) Application in Dermatology: A Literature Review
Authors: Lee Kar Wai Alvin , Chan Lisa Kwin Wah , Lee Angela Wai Kay , Lee Cheuk Hung , Wong Sky Tin Hau , Yi Kyu-Ho
Published: September 2024

Poly-d,l-lactic acid (PDLLA) is a biodegradable and biocompatible polymer that has garnered significant attention in dermatology due to its unique properties and versatile applications. This literature review offers a comprehensive analysis of PDLLA’s roles in various dermatological conditions and wound-healing applications. PDLLA demonstrates significant benefits in enhancing skin elasticity and firmness, reducing wrinkles, and promoting tissue regeneration and scar remodeling. Its biodegradable properties render it highly suitable for soft tissue augmentation, including facial and breast reconstruction. We discuss the critical importance of understanding PDLLA’s physical and chemical characteristics to optimize its performance and safety, with a focus on how nano- and micro-particulate systems can improve delivery and stability. While potential complications, such as granuloma formation and non-inflammatory nodules, are highlighted, effective monitoring and early intervention strategies are essential. PDLLA’s applications extend beyond dermatology into orthopedics and drug delivery, owing to its superior mechanical stability and biocompatibility. This review underscores the need for ongoing research to fully elucidate the mechanisms of PDLLA and to maximize its therapeutic potential across diverse medical fields.
Preparation and Performance of Leather-Finished Plywood
Authors: Zou Yuanyuan , Yuan Ziyi , Lu Yuxin , Liu Xiaoqian , Chen Chuxuan , Fang Lu
Published: September 2024

In order to achieve batch production, we propose a simple and fast method to prepare leather-finished plywood. In this study, ethylene–vinyl acetate was selected as the intermediate layer to prepare EVA/polyurethane (PU) leather composites. ESEM, tensile property test and compressive property test were used to characterize the microstructure and physical-mechanical properties of the composites. The response surface method (RSM) was also used to explore the relationship between hot pressing temperature, hot pressing pressure and hot pressing time. The significance of the factors and the interactions between the two factors were determined by ANOVA, with the most significant effect being that of the temperature. The theoretical optimal hot pressing process conditions were calculated by the regression equation as a temperature of 124.4 °C, a time of 200 s and a pressure of 1.3 MPa. The surface bond strength of the test specimen measured under this condition was 1.89 MPa, it has good finishing properties and the impregnation peel strength and surface bond strength met the requirements of GB/T 15104-2021.
Innovative and Patented Liposome-Based Drug Carriers
Authors: Ilić-Stojanović Snežana , Cakić Suzana , Nikolić Nada , Petrović Slobodan
Published: September 2024

Liposome-based drug carriers are multipurpose colloidal drug delivery systems developed mainly for targeted therapy. Researchers have expanded their research on liposomes due to their unique characteristics (e.g., non-toxicity, biodegradability, biocompatibility, and non-immunogenicity). This review summarizes historical advances, from the first scientific papers and patents to the latest inventive solutions, in the field of liposome-based drug carriers and their production processes. Various bibliometric studies on the use of liposomes as drug carriers have been published; nevertheless, they focus on published scientific works rather than patent documents. Patent information is important for the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and cosmetic industries because technical knowledge in patent documentation is often not published in any other document. The research in this review was conducted using the Espacenet—European Patent Office database, with keywords and classification codes defined by the International Patent Classification. Innovative formulations, including the usage and administration route, are broadly researched to produce effective and safe drug delivery systems with negligible side effects. Global patenting trends in liposome drug carriers’ production process were also discussed, and this evaluation unifies up-to-date development in this field. Patent database reviews and analyses could help as inspiration for future investigations as well as for problem-solving resources.
Lead Ion Adsorption on Glutathione-Modified Carbon
Authors: Selvanantharajah Namasivayam , Iyngaran Poobalasuntharam , Abiman Poobalasingam , Kuganathan Navaratnarajah
Published: September 2024

This study explores the adsorption of Pb(II) from aqueous solutions using glutathione-modified carbon powder at room temperature. The graphite powder was modified through oxidation followed by surface immobilization of glutathione. The Pb(II) concentration was measured using square wave anodic stripping voltammetry (SWASV). Experiments were conducted with the following varying initial Pb(II) ion concentrations: 20.72 mg L−1, 41.44 mg L−1, 62.16 mg L−1, 82.88 mg L−1, 103.60 mg L−1, and 124.32 mg L−1. The effect of varying the glutathione-modified carbon powder dosage (12.5 mg, 25.0 mg, 50.0 mg, 75.0 mg, and 100.0 mg) on Pb(II) uptake was studied. The adsorption data were modeled using the Freundlich isotherm, resulting in a regression coefficient (R2) of 0.96, which signifies a good fit. The Freundlich constants obtained were KF = 3.54 × 10−5 (adsorption capacity) and n = 1.56 (adsorption intensity). At optimal conditions (10.0 mL of 20.72 mg L−1 Pb(II) solution with 100.0 mg of glutathione-modified carbon powder), the adsorption efficiency was 96.3%. The glutathione-modified carbon powder exhibits a high capacity for adsorbing Pb(II) from aqueous solutions.
Surrounding Rock Control Technology of Thick Hard Roof and Hard Coal Seam Roadway under Tectonic Stress
Authors: Cao Zhongzong , Liu Honglin , Shan Chengfang , Wang Hongzhi , Kang Haitong
Published: September 2024

In the process of roadway excavation in thick and hard coal seams with a hard roof, the instantaneous release of a large amount of elastic energy accumulated in coal and rock mass causes disasters. Especially under the action of tectonic stress, dynamic disasters of roadway-surrounding rock are extremely strong. Therefore, this paper takes the 110,505 roadway of the Yushuling Coal Mine as the engineering background. Aiming at the serious deformation of roadway-surrounding rock and the problem of strong mine pressure, the deformation mechanism of roadway-surrounding rock is studied by means of theoretical analysis, indoor experimentation, numerical simulation and field testing, and the surrounding rock control technology is proposed. Firstly, the results show that the stress field type of the Yushuling Coal Mine is a σHv type, the azimuth angle of the maximum horizontal principal stress is concentrated in 110.30°~114.12°, the dip angle is −33.04°~−3.43°, and the maximum horizontal principal stress is 1.94~2.76 times of the minimum horizontal principal stress. Secondly, the brittleness index of No. 5 is 0.62; the failure energy release of the surrounding rock compressive energy floor rock sample is up to 150,000 mv * ms. The more the cumulative number of rock samples, the greater the strength, and the more severe the damage. Thirdly, with the increase in tectonic stress, the stress of roadway-surrounding rock is asymmetrically distributed, and the plastic zone develops along the tendency. The maximum range of the plastic zone expands from 4.18 m to 10.19 m. Lastly, according to the deformation characteristics of roadway-surrounding rock, left side > roof > right side > floor, the surrounding rock control technology of ‘asymmetric anchor net cable support + borehole pressure relief’ is proposed, which realizes the effective control of roadway-surrounding rock deformation.
Finite Element Analysis of Laminar Natural Convection in a Differentially Heated Porous Cavity Using the Darcy–Brinkman Model
Authors: Farhat Benabderrahmane , Kaid Noureddine , Alqahtani Sultan , Menni Younes , Alshammari Badr M. , Kolsi Lioua
Published: September 2024

This study delves into the convective heat transfer phenomena within a square cavity that houses a porous medium, analyzing the effects of Darcy (Da) and Rayleigh (Ra) numbers on the thermal and fluid dynamic behavior within the system. Utilizing a combination of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and the finite element method (FEM), the research focuses on steady-state, laminar flow conditions in two dimensions. The cavity, which is impermeable at its boundaries, contains a centrally located square region filled with a porous, isotropic material. The thermal environment is controlled with insulated horizontal walls and vertically positioned walls that experience sinusoidal temperature variations. The study examines how variations in the permeability of the porous medium (Da numbers ranging from 10−1 to 10−4) and the buoyancy-driven flow strength (Ra numbers spanning from 102 to 105) influence the velocity fields and heat transfer rates, with results expressed through Nusselt number (Nu) distributions. The findings reveal that higher Ra numbers, particularly at 105, significantly intensify convection within the cavity, thereby boosting local rates of heat transfer, especially in the central vertical section. The research identifies that optimal flow resistance in the porous medium occurs within the Da number range of 10−3 to 10−4. These insights are critical for advancing thermal management techniques, particularly in the natural cooling of electronic devices and improving insulation methods.
Bacterial Cellulose in Food Packaging: A Bibliometric Analysis and Review of Sustainable Innovations and Prospects
Authors: Infante-Neta Aida Aguilera , D’Almeida Alan Portal , Albuquerque Tiago Lima de
Published: September 2024

The scientific community has explored new packaging materials owing to environmental challenges and pollution from plastic waste. Bacterial cellulose (BC), produced by bacteria like Gluconacetobacter xylinus, shows high potential for food preservation owing to its exceptional mechanical strength, high crystallinity, and effective barrier properties against gases and moisture, making it a promising alternative to conventional plastics. This review highlights recent advances in BC production, particularly agro-industrial residues, which reduce costs and enhance environmental sustainability. Incorporating antimicrobial agents into BC matrices has also led to active packaging solutions that extend food shelf-life and improve safety. A bibliometric analysis reveals a significant increase in research on BC over the last decade, reflecting growing global interest. Key research themes include the development of BC-based composites and the exploration of their antimicrobial properties. Critical areas for future research include improving BC production’s scalability and economic viability and the integration of BC with other biopolymers. These developments emphasize BC’s potential as a sustainable packaging material and its role in the circular economy through waste valorization.
Semi-Analytical Closed-Form Solutions of the Ball–Plate Problem
Authors: Ene Remus-Daniel , Pop Nicolina
Published: September 2024

Mathematical models and numerical simulations are necessary to understand the dynamical behaviors of complex systems. The aim of this work is to investigate closed-form solutions for the ball–plate problem considering a system derived from an optimal control problem for ball–plate dynamics. The nonlinear properties of ball and plate control system are presented in this work. To semi-analytically solve this system, we explored a second-order nonlinear differential equation. Consequently, we obtained the approximate closed-form solutions by the Optimal Parametric Iteration Method (OPIM) using only one iteration. A comparison between the analytical and corresponding numerical procedures reflects the advantages of the first one. The accordance between the obtained results and the numerical ones highlights that the procedure used is accurate, effective, and good to implement in applications such as sliding mode control to the ball-and-plate problem.
An Improved Lightweight YOLOv8 Network for Early Small Flame Target Detection
Authors: Du Hubin , Li Qiuyu , Guan Ziqian , Zhang Hengyuan , Liu Yongtao
Published: September 2024

The efficacy of early fire detection hinges on its swift response and precision, which allows for the issuance of timely alerts in the nascent stages of a fire, thereby minimizing losses and injuries. To enhance the precision and swiftness of identifying minute early flame targets, as well as the ease of deployment at the edge end, an optimized early flame target detection algorithm for YOLOv8 is proposed. The original feature fusion module, an FPN (feature pyramid network) of YOLOv8n, has been enhanced to become the BiFPN (bidirectional feature pyramid network) module. This modification enables the network to more efficiently and rapidly perform multi-scale fusion, thereby enhancing its capacity for integrating features across different scales. Secondly, the efficient multi-scale attention (EMA) mechanism is introduced to ensure the effective retention of information on each channel and reduce the computational overhead, thereby improving the model’s detection accuracy while reducing the number of model parameters. Subsequently, the NWD (normalized Wasserstein distance) loss function is employed as the bounding box loss function, which enhances the model’s regression performance and robustness. The experimental results demonstrate that the size of the enhanced model is 4.8 M, a reduction of 22.5% compared to the original YOLOv8n. Additionally, the mAP0.5 metric exhibits a 2.7% improvement over the original YOLOv8n, indicating a more robust detection capability and a more compact model size. This makes it an ideal candidate for deployment in edge devices.
Multi-Omic Approaches in Cancer-Related Micropeptide Identification
Authors: Vrbnjak Katarina , Sewduth Raj Nayan
Published: September 2024

Despite the advances in modern cancer therapy, malignant diseases are still a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Conventional treatment methods frequently lead to side effects and drug resistance in patients, highlighting the need for novel therapeutic approaches. Recent findings have identified the existence of non-canonical micropeptides, an additional layer of the proteome complexity, also called the microproteome. These small peptides are a promising class of therapeutic agents with the potential to address the limitations of current cancer treatments. The microproteome is encoded by regions of the genome historically annotated as non-coding, and its existence has been revealed thanks to recent advances in proteomic and bioinformatic technology, which dramatically improved the understanding of proteome complexity. Micropeptides have been shown to be biologically active in several cancer types, indicating their therapeutic role. Furthermore, they are characterized by low toxicity and high target specificity, demonstrating their potential for the development of better tolerated drugs. In this review, we survey the current landscape of known micropeptides with a role in cancer progression or treatment, discuss their potential as anticancer agents, and describe the methodological challenges facing the proteome field of research.
Rejecting Christ’s Freedom? Sacralisation and Personalisation in African Neo-Pentecostal Prophetism
Authors: Banda Collium
Published: September 2024

The African religiosity that permeates all human existence is driven by a consuming desire for connection with the spiritual world that provides and protects human flourishing. African neo-Pentecostal prophets (ANPPs) respond to this need by imposing themselves as the sacral agents that can connect people to God. The sacralisation of prophets leads them to personalise the church as their personal property. The question answered by this article is as follows: from a Christian soteriological perspective of Jesus as the only sufficient intermediary between God and humanity, how can we address the African need for connection with God that fosters a reliance on African neo-Pentecostal prophets and leads to the sacralisation of these prophets and the personalisation of the church? This article uses Christ’s redemption of believers to challenge ANPPs’ response to the African need for connection with God that leads to these prophets’ domination and exploitation of their followers. This article challenges ANPPs to promote the freedom of Christ’s redemptive work instead of sacralising themselves and personalising the church, which instils a religion of fear that keeps their followers subservient to prophets. The contribution of this article lies in assisting Christians, in this case the followers of ANPPs, to realise that sacralising the prophets provides grounds for these prophets to personalise the church. Therefore, Christ’s redemptive work should be affirmed and promoted as a means of protecting the church from being personalised by sacralised prophets.
Evaluating the Global Processability of Anthropogenic Metals from Mining Waste
Authors: Kanwal Qudsia , Akhtar Muhammad Saqib , Al-Ghamdi Sami G.
Published: September 2024

Natural resource depletion and increased mining waste pose significant challenges to global sustainability efforts. This study investigates the processability of mining waste during the metal recovery stage to evaluate its potential contribution to anthropogenic circularity. The mining industry, abundant in valuable metals that are crucial for a carbon-neutral economy, plays a pivotal role in this context. We determine the grades of metals by looking at their chemical makeup, and then we use statistical entropy to model how easy it is to process certain waste materials. This provides us with processability measures that range from 0.19 bit to 1.18 bit. Our findings highlight that while some waste contains “abundant” metals, its complexity may diminish its economic value, raising concerns about its environmental impacts and resource availability at the end-of-life stages. Estimating potential revenue involves multiplying processed amounts by commodity prices, revealing a maximum value of 8.73 USD/metric ton for processed waste. This assessment underscores the importance of integrating circular economy principles, aiming to mitigate environmental damage and promote industrial ecology. By advancing our understanding of mining waste management through rigorous scientific inquiry, this study contributes to sustainable resource utilization strategies that are essential for future industrial practices and environmental stewardship.