bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic Variability, Population Differentiation, and Correlations for Thermal Tolerance Indices in the Minute Wasp, Trichogramma cacoeciae
Authors: Ion Scotta Michela , Margris Lucas , Sellier Nadine , Warot Sylvie , Gatti Flavio , Siccardi Fabio , Gibert Patricia , Vercken Elodie , Ris Nicolas
Published: November 2021

Temperature is a main driver of the ecology and evolution of ectotherms. In particular, the ability to move at sub-lethal low temperatures can be described through three thermal tolerance indices—critical thermal minimum (CTmin), chill coma temperature (CCT), and activity recovery (AR). Although these indices have proven relevant for inter-specific comparisons, little is known about their intraspecific variability as well as possible genetic correlations between them. We thus investigated these two topics (intraspecific variability and genetic correlations between thermal tolerance indices) using the minute wasp, Trichogramma cacoeciae. Strains from T. cacoeciae were sampled across three geographic regions in France—two bioclimatic zones along a sharp altitudinal cline in a Mediterranean context (meso-Mediterranean at low elevations and supra-Mediterranean at higher elevations) and a more northwestern area characterized by continental or mountainous climates. Our results evidenced a significant effect of both the longitude and the severity of the cold during winter months on CCT. Results were however counter-intuitive since the strains from the two bioclimatic zones characterized by more severe winters (northwestern area and supra-Mediterranean) exhibited opposite patterns. In addition, a strong positive correlation was observed between CCT and CTmin. Neither strain differentiation nor the covariations between traits seem to be linked with the molecular diversity observed on the part of the mitochondrial marker COI.
Symptoms after COVID-19 Infection in Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis in Poland
Authors: Czarnowska Agata , Kapica-Topczewska Katarzyna , Zajkowska Olga , Adamczyk-Sowa Monika , Kubicka-Bączyk Katarzyna , Niedziela Natalia , Warmus Paweł , Kalinowska-Łyszczarz Alicja , Kania Karolina , Słowik Agnieszka , Wnuk Marcin , Marona Monika , Nowak Klaudia , Bartosik-Psujek Halina , Lech Beata , Perenc Adam , Popiel Małgorzata , Kucharska-Lipowska Marta , Chorąży Monika , Tarasiuk Joanna , Mirończuk Anna , Kochanowicz Jan , Lasek-Bal Anetta , Puz Przemysław , Maciejowska Katarzyna , Wawrzyniak Sławomir , Niezgodzińska-Maciejek Anna , Pokryszko-Dragan Anna , Gruszka Ewa , Budrewicz Sławomir , Białek Marta , Zwiernik Jacek , Michałowska Anna , Nosek Krzysztof , Zwiernik Beata , Lewańczyk Bożena , Brola Waldemar , Kułakowska Alina
Published: November 2021

(1) Background: To report and analyze the presence of residual symptoms after SARS-CoV-2 infection among Polish patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) treated with different disease-modifying therapies (DMTs). (2) Methods: The study included 426 individuals with MS treated with DMTs and confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection from 12 Polish MS centers. The data were collected through to 31 May 2021. The information included demographics, specific MS characteristics, course of SARS-CoV-2 infection, and residual (general and neurological) symptoms lasting more than four and 12 weeks after the initial infection. The results were obtained using maximum likelihood estimates for odds ratio and logistic regression. (3) Results: A total of 44.84% patients with MS reported symptoms lasting between four and 12 weeks after the initial infection; 24.41% people had symptoms that resolved up to 12 weeks, and 20.42% patients had symptoms that lasted over 12 weeks. The most common symptoms were: fatigue, disturbance of concentration, attention, and memory, cognitive complaints, and headache. None of the DMTs were predisposed to the development of residual symptoms after the initial infection. A total of 11.97% of patients had relapse three months prior or after SARS-CoV-2 infection. (4) Conclusion: Almost half of individuals with MS treated with different DMTs had residual symptoms after SARS-CoV-2 infection. None of the DMTs raised the probability of developing post-acute COVID symptoms.
Clinical and Dietary Determinants of Muscle Mass in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: Data from the Diabetes and Lifestyle Cohort Twente
Authors: Jalving Annis C. , Oosterwijk Milou M. , Hagedoorn Ilse J. M. , Navis Gerjan , Bakker Stephan J. L. , Laverman Gozewijn D.
Published: November 2021

Low muscle mass in patients with type 2 diabetes is associated with a progressively higher risk of morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to identify modifiable targets for intervention of muscle mass in type 2 diabetes. Cross-sectional analyses were performed in 375 patients of the Diabetes and Lifestyle Cohort Twente-1 study. Muscle mass was estimated by 24 h urinary creatinine excretion rate (CER, mmol/24 h). Patients were divided in sex-stratified tertiles of CER. To study determinants of CER, multivariable linear regression analyses were performed. Protein intake was determined by Maroni formula and by a semi-quantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire. The mean CER was 16.1 ± 4.8 mmol/24 h and 10.9 ± 2.9 mmol/24 h in men and women, respectively. Lower CER was significantly associated with older age (p < 0.001) as a non-modifiable risk factor, whereas higher BMI (p = 0.015) and lower dietary protein intake (both methods p < 0.001) were identified as modifiable risk factors for lower CER. Overall body mass index (BMI) was high, even in the lowest CER tertile the mean BMI was 30.9 kg/m2, mainly driven by someone’s body weight (p = 0.004) instead of someone’s height (p = 0.58). In the total population, 28% did not achieve adequate protein intake of >0.8 g/kg/day, with the highest percentage in the lowest CER tertile (52%, p < 0.001). Among patients with type 2 diabetes treated in secondary care, higher BMI and low dietary protein intake are modifiable risk factors for lower muscle mass. Considering the risk associated with low muscle mass, intervention may be useful. To that purpose, dietary protein intake and BMI are potential targets for intervention.
Effectiveness of Telemonitoring for Respiratory and Systemic Symptoms of Asthma and COPD: A Narrative Review
Authors: Metting Esther , Dassen Lizayra , Aardoom Jiska , Versluis Anke , Chavannes Niels
Published: November 2021

Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD) are highly prevalent chronic lung diseases that require ongoing self-management, which itself is often suboptimal. Therefore, telemonitoring has been used to help patients measure their symptoms, share data with healthcare providers and receive education and feedback to improve disease management. In this study, we conducted a narrative review of recent evidence on the effectiveness of telemonitoring for asthma and COPD in adults. Of the thirteen identified studies, eleven focused on COPD and two focused on asthma. All studies were reviewed, and effects were compared between intervention and care as usual groups. Of the study interventions, seven showed a positive outcome on at least one outcome measure, and six had no significant results on any of the outcome measures. All of the interventions with a positive outcome included an educational component, while only one of the six interventions without positive outcomes included an educational component. We conclude that telemonitoring interventions for asthma and COPD seem more effective if they included an educational component regarding different aspects of self-management.
Monitoring Tribological Events by Acoustic Emission Measurements for Bearing Contacts
Authors: Renhart Philipp , Maier Michael , Strablegg Christopher , Summer Florian , Grün Florian , Eder Andreas
Published: November 2021

The measurement of acoustic emission data in experiments reveals informative details about the tribological contact. The required recording rate for conclusive datasets ranges up to several megahertz. Typically, this results in very large datasets for long-term measurements. This in return has the consequence, that acoustic emissions are mostly acquired at predefined cyclic time intervals, which leads to many blind spots. The following work shows methods for effective postprocessing and a feature based data acquisition method. Additionally, a two stage wear mechanism for bearings was found by the described method and could be substantiated by a numerical simulation.
The Utilisation of Solid Fuels Derived from Waste Pistachio Shells in Direct Carbon Solid Oxide Fuel Cells
Authors: Dudek Magdalena , Adamczyk Bartosz , Grzywacz Przemysław , Lach Radosław , Sitarz Maciej , Leśniak Magdalena , Gajek Marcin , Mech Krzysztof , Wilk Małgorzata , Rapacz-Kmita Alicja , Ziąbka Magdalena , Dudek Piotr
Published: November 2021

The comprehensive results regarding the physicochemical properties of carbonaceous materials that are obtained from pistachio shells support their usage as solid fuels to supply direct carbon solid oxide fuel cells (DC-SOFCs). The influence of preparation conditions on variations in the chemical composition, morphology of the biochar powders, and degree of graphitization of carbonaceous materials were investigated. Based on structural investigations (X-ray diffraction analysis and Raman spectroscopy), it was observed that disordered carbon particles developed during the application of thermal treatments. The use of X-ray fluorescence enabled a comparative analysis of the chemical composition of the inorganic matter in biocarbon-based samples. Additionally, the gasification of carbonaceous-based samples vs. time at a temperature of 850 °C was investigated in a H2O or CO2 gas atmosphere. The analysis demonstrated the conversion rate of biochar obtained from pistachio shells to H2, CH4 and CO during steam gasification. The electrochemical investigations of the DC-SOFCs that were supplied with biochars obtained from pistachio shells were characterized by satisfactory values for the current and power densities at a temperature range of 700–850 °C. However, a higher power output of the DC-SOFCs was observed when CO2 was introduced to the anode chamber. Therefore, the impact of the Boudouard reaction on the performance of DC-SOFCs was confirmed. The chars that were prepared from pistachio shells were adequate for solid fuels for utilization in DC–SOFCs.
Thermal Decomposition of Brominated Butyl Rubber
Authors: Zhang Wei , Zang Yang , Lu Yanli , Lin Weisheng , Zhao Shengyun , Xiong Jinping
Published: November 2021

The thermal decomposition of brominated butyl rubber under air atmosphere was investigated by thermogravimetry (TG) and derivative thermogravimetry (DTG) at various heating rates. The kinetic parameters were evaluated by TG and the isoconversional method developed by Ozawa. One prominent decomposition stage was observed in the DTG curves at high heating rates, while an additional small peak was observed at low heating rates. The apparent activation energy determined using the TG method ranged from 219.31 to 228.13 kJ·mol−1 at various heating rates. The non-isothermal degradation was found to be a first-order reaction, and the activation energy, as determined by the isoconversional method, increased with an increase in mass loss. The kinetic data suggest that brominated butyl rubber has excellent thermal stability. This study can indirectly aid in improving rubber pyrolysis methods and in enhancing the heat resistance of materials.
Sliding Wear Performance of AlCrN Coating on TiB2/Ti Composites at High Temperatures
Authors: Michalczewski Remigiusz , Kalbarczyk Marek , Słomka Zbigniew , Osuch-Słomka Edyta , Łuszcz Maciej , Liu Le , Antonov Maksim , Hussainova Irina
Published: November 2021

The aim of the study was to investigate effect of Ti/TiB2 composite composition and manufacturing technology parameters on the tribological behaviour of AlCrN coating-composite system. The AlCrN coating was deposited by PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) method. The composites were manufactured by spark plasma sintering (SPS) from three variants of powders mixtures: Ti with TiB2, Ti6Al4V with TiB2 as well as Ti with B, using (five) different sintering temperatures. For each of the developed coating-composite systems, the wear resistance was evaluated using ball-on-disc SRV tester, at six temperatures (from room temperature up to 900 °C). The results confirmed that high-temperature wear resistance of the coating–substrate combination depends on Ti/TiB2 composite composition and manufacturing technology parameters. In the case of uncoated composite, two processes manage the wear at high temperatures: cracking propagation and surface oxidation. The presence of AlCrN coating on the composite surface protects the surface against deep cracking and surface oxidation. The composites of Group I, sintered at 1250 °C from a mixture of pure Ti and TiB2 (50/50 wt.% ratio) as well as Group III, sintered at 1350 °C from a mixture of pure Ti and B allow the achievement of a satisfactory surface quality, a high adhesion of the PVD coating and moderate wear at high temperatures. However, the composite made of pure Ti and B seems to be a better solution for temperatures exceeding 600 °C.
Overcoming Asymmetric Contact Resistances in Al-Contacted Mg2(Si,Sn) Thermoelectric Legs
Authors: Camut Julia , Ayachi Sahar , Castillo-Hernández Gustavo , Park Sungjin , Ryu Byungki , Park Sudong , Frank Adina , Stiewe Christian , Müller Eckhard , de Boor Johannes
Published: November 2021

Thermoelectric generators are a reliable and environmentally friendly source of electrical energy. A crucial step for their development is the maximization of their efficiency. The efficiency of a TEG is inversely related to its electrical contact resistance, which it is therefore essential to minimize. In this paper, we investigate the contacting of an Al electrode on Mg2(Si,Sn) thermoelectric material and find that samples can show highly asymmetric electrical contact resistivities on both sides of a leg (e.g., 10 µΩ·cm2 and 200 µΩ·cm2). Differential contacting experiments allow one to identify the oxide layer on the Al foil as well as the dicing of the pellets into legs are identified as the main origins of this behavior. In order to avoid any oxidation of the foil, a thin layer of Zn is sputtered after etching the Al surface; this method proves itself effective in keeping the contact resistivities of both interfaces equally low (<10 µΩ·cm2) after dicing. A slight gradient is observed in the n-type leg’s Seebeck coefficient after the contacting with the Zn-coated electrode and the role of Zn in this change is confirmed by comparing the experimental results to hybrid-density functional calculations of Zn point defects.
Comparison between Hydrofluoric Acid and Single-Component Primer as Conditioners on Resin Cement Adhesion to Lithium Silicate and Lithium Disilicate Glass Ceramics
Authors: Vichi Alessandro , Fabian Fonzar Riccardo , Carrabba Michele , Louca Chris , Scotti Nicola , Mazzitelli Claudia , Breschi Lorenzo , Goracci Cecilia
Published: November 2021

This study aimed at evaluating the effects of different surface conditionings on the microshear bond strength (µSBS) of a self-adhesive resin cement to VITA Suprinity (ZLS) and IPS e.max CAD (LD). Three surface conditioning protocols were performed on ZLS and LD before luting with a self-adhesive resin cement (RelyX Unicem 2, RXU): hydrofluoric acid (HF), HF + silane (HF + S), or Monobond Etch & Prime (EP). In each group, 15 cylindrical buildups of RXU were prepared on five milled bars and submitted to a µSBS test. Data were statistically analyzed with two-way ANOVA and Tukey’s post hoc test (p < 0.05). Failure modes were recorded and classified as adhesive, mixed, cohesive in resin, or ceramic, and statistically analyzed with Fisher’s exact test (p = 0.05). One additional bar per group was used for the morphological characterization of the conditioned surface by means of SEM. The material per se did not significantly influence adhesion (p = 0.744). Conditioning protocol was a significant factor: EP yielded significantly higher μSBS than HF (p = 0.005), while no significant differences emerged between EP and HF + S (p = 0.107), or HF + S and HF (p = 0.387). The material-conditioning protocol interaction was not statistically significant (p = 0.109). Significant intergroup differences were found in distribution of failure modes: mixed failures were predominant in the ZLS/EP group, while the other groups showed a prevalence of adhesive failures. The self-etching primer showed promising results in terms of immediate bond strength of a self-adhesive resin cement to lithium-silica-based glass ceramics, suggesting its alternative use to hydrofluoric acid and silane conditioning protocols.
Thermodynamic Modeling of the Al–Co–Pd Ternary System, Aluminum Rich Corner
Authors: Homolová Viera , Kroupa Aleš
Published: November 2021

The aluminum-rich corner of the Al–Co–Pd ternary system was thermodynamically modeled by the CALPHAD method in the present study. The ternary system is a complex system with many ternary phases (W, V, F, U, Y2, C2). All ternary phases, except phase U, were modeled as stoichiometric compounds. The order–disorder model was used to describe the BCC–B2 and BCC-A2 phases. Solubility of the third element in binary intermetallic phases (Al5Co2, Al3Co, Al9Co2, Al13Co4, Al3Pd and Al3Pd2) was modeled. The experimental results collected from the literature were used in the optimization of the thermodynamic parameters. A good agreement between the experimental results and the calculations was achieved.
Implementing Digital Edge Enhancers on Improved High-Resolution Aeromagnetic Signals for Structural-Depth Analysis around the Middle Benue Trough, Nigeria
Authors: Ejiga Eko Gerald , Ismail Noer El Hidayah , Yusoff Ismail
Published: November 2021

Digital edge detector operations using magnetic derivatives in conjunction with spectra depth analysis were performed on high-resolution aeromagnetic signals to enhance the delineation and interpretation of depth, structural, and intrasedimentary features within the Middle Benue Trough (MBT) of North Central Nigeria, which could serve as a guide for mineral exploration. The derivatives revealed high-amplitude and short-wavelength anomalies over areas underlain by crystalline basement complexes, major volcanic zones, and aggregates of intrasedimentary volcanic and plutonic rocks. Geologic lineaments trending predominantly NE–SW and NW–SE, as well as minor trends of E–W and N–S, suggest that the area has undergone differential stress regimes across geologic time. The spectral depth analysis indicates a two-source depth model. The deep depth ranges from 1.9 to 6.1 km with an average of 3.9 km, whereas the shallow depth ranges between 0.3 and 1.9 km with an average of 0.8 km and is found to emanate from magnetic signals of post-Cretaceous near-surface igneous intrusions as well as other magnetized bodies embedded within the sediments. The spatial distribution of various hydrothermal minerals such as lead–zinc–barite deposits, as well as salt mineralization, is associated with the widespread Tertiary–recent magmatism and governed by pre-existing tectonic structures in the region.
60-nt DNA Direct Detection without Pretreatment by Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering with Polycationic Modified Ag Microcrystal Derived from AgCl Cube
Authors: Mao Jikai , Huang Lvtao , Fan Li , Chen Fang , Lou Jingan , Shan Xuliang , Yu Dongdong , Zhou Jianguang
Published: November 2021

Direct detection of long-strand DNA by surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) is a valuable method for diagnosis of hereditary diseases, but it is currently limited to less than 25-nt DNA strand in pure water, which makes this approach unsuitable for many real-life applications. Here, we report a 60-nt DNA label-free detection strategy without pretreatment by SERS with polyquaternium-modified Ag microcrystals derived from an AgCl cube. Through the reduction-induced decomposition, the size of the about 3 × 3 × 3 μm3 AgCl cube is reduced to Ag, and the surface is distributed with the uniform size of 63 nm silver nanoparticles, providing a large area of a robust and highly electromagnetic enhancement region. The modified polycationic molecule enhances the non-specific electrostatic interaction with the phosphate group, thereby anchoring DNA strands firmly to the SERS enhanced region intactly. As a result, the single-base recognition ability of this strategy reaches 60-nt and is successfully applied to detect thalassemia-related mutation genes.
Determination of the Protein-Protein Interactions within Acyl Carrier Protein (MmcB)-Dependent Modifications in the Biosynthesis of Mitomycin
Authors: Leng Dongjin , Sheng Yong , Wang Hengyu , Wei Jianhua , Ou Yixin , Deng Zixin , Bai Linquan , Kang Qianjin
Published: November 2021

Mitomycin has a unique chemical structure and contains densely assembled functionalities with extraordinary antitumor activity. The previously proposed mitomycin C biosynthetic pathway has caused great attention to decipher the enzymatic mechanisms for assembling the pharmaceutically unprecedented chemical scaffold. Herein, we focused on the determination of acyl carrier protein (ACP)-dependent modification steps and identification of the protein–protein interactions between MmcB (ACP) with the partners in the early-stage biosynthesis of mitomycin C. Based on the initial genetic manipulation consisting of gene disruption and complementation experiments, genes mitE, mmcB, mitB, and mitF were identified as the essential functional genes in the mitomycin C biosynthesis, respectively. Further integration of biochemical analysis elucidated that MitE catalyzed CoA ligation of 3-amino-5-hydroxy-bezonic acid (AHBA), MmcB-tethered AHBA triggered the biosynthesis of mitomycin C, and both MitB and MitF were MmcB-dependent tailoring enzymes involved in the assembly of mitosane. Aiming at understanding the poorly characterized protein–protein interactions, the in vitro pull-down assay was carried out by monitoring MmcB individually with MitB and MitF. The observed results displayed the clear interactions between MmcB and MitB and MitF. The surface plasmon resonance (SPR) biosensor analysis further confirmed the protein–protein interactions of MmcB with MitB and MitF, respectively. Taken together, the current genetic and biochemical analysis will facilitate the investigations of the unusual enzymatic mechanisms for the structurally unique compound assembly and inspire attempts to modify the chemical scaffold of mitomycin family antibiotics.
Nanocellulose-Based Materials for Water Treatment: Adsorption, Photocatalytic Degradation, Disinfection, Antifouling, and Nanofiltration
Authors: Salama Ahmed , Abouzeid Ragab , Leong Wei Sun , Jeevanandam Jaison , Samyn Pieter , Dufresne Alain , Bechelany Mikhael , Barhoum Ahmed
Published: November 2021

Nanocelluloses are promising bio-nano-materials for use as water treatment materials in environmental protection and remediation. Over the past decades, they have been integrated via novel nanoengineering approaches for water treatment processes. This review aims at giving an overview of nanocellulose requirements concerning emerging nanotechnologies of waster treatments and purification, i.e., adsorption, absorption, flocculation, photocatalytic degradation, disinfection, antifouling, ultrafiltration, nanofiltration, and reverse osmosis. Firstly, the nanocellulose synthesis methods (mechanical, physical, chemical, and biological), unique properties (sizes, geometries, and surface chemistry) were presented and their use for capturing and removal of wastewater pollutants was explained. Secondly, different chemical modification approaches surface functionalization (with functional groups, polymers, and nanoparticles) for enhancing the surface chemistry of the nanocellulose for enabling the effective removal of specific pollutants (suspended particles, microorganisms, hazardous metals ions, organic dyes, drugs, pesticides fertilizers, and oils) were highlighted. Thirdly, new fabrication approaches (solution casting, thermal treatment, electrospinning, 3D printing) that integrated nanocelluloses (spherical nanoparticles, nanowhiskers, nanofibers) to produce water treatment materials (individual composite nanoparticles, hydrogels, aerogels, sponges, membranes, and nanopapers) were covered. Finally, the major challenges and future perspectives concerning the applications of nanocellulose based materials in water treatment and purification were highlighted.
Silver/Polypyrrole-Functionalized Polyurethane Foam Embedded Phase Change Materials for Thermal Energy Harvesting
Authors: Fan Dongli , Meng Yuan , Jiang Yuzhuo , Qian Siyi , Liu Jie , Xu Yuzhi , Xiong Dangsheng , Cao Yufeng
Published: November 2021

Conversion of solar energy into thermal energy stored in phase change materials (PCMs) can effectively relieve the energy dilemma and improve energy utilization efficiency. However, facile fabrication of form-stable PCMs (FSPCMs) to achieve simultaneously energetic solar–thermal, conversion and storage remains a formidable challenge. Herein, we report a desirable solar–thermal energy conversion and storage system that utilizes paraffin (PW) as energy-storage units, the silver/polypyrrole-functionalized polyurethane (PU) foam as the cage and energy conversion platform to restrain the fluidity of the melting paraffin and achieve high solar–thermal energy conversion efficiency (93.7%) simultaneously. The obtained FSPCMs possess high thermal energy storage density (187.4 J/g) and an excellent leak-proof property. In addition, 200 accelerated solar–thermal energy conversion-cycling tests demonstrated that the resultant FSPCMs had excellent cycling durability and reversible solar–thermal energy conversion ability, which offered a potential possibility in the field of solar energy utilization technology.
Iron Oxide Nanoparticle-Based Hyperthermia as a Treatment Option in Various Gastrointestinal Malignancies
Authors: Palzer Julian , Eckstein Lea , Slabu Ioana , Reisen Oliver , Neumann Ulf P. , Roeth Anjali A.
Published: November 2021

Iron oxide nanoparticle-based hyperthermia is an emerging field in cancer treatment. The hyperthermia is primarily achieved by two differing methods: magnetic fluid hyperthermia and photothermal therapy. In magnetic fluid hyperthermia, the iron oxide nanoparticles are heated by an alternating magnetic field through Brownian and Néel relaxation. In photothermal therapy, the hyperthermia is mainly generated by absorption of light, thereby converting electromagnetic waves into thermal energy. By use of iron oxide nanoparticles, this effect can be enhanced. Both methods are promising tools in cancer treatment and are, therefore, also explored for gastrointestinal malignancies. Here, we provide an extensive literature research on both therapy options for the most common gastrointestinal malignancies (esophageal, gastric and colorectal cancer, colorectal liver metastases, hepatocellular carcinoma, cholangiocellular carcinoma and pancreatic cancer). As many of these rank in the top ten of cancer-related deaths, novel treatment strategies are urgently needed. This review describes the efforts undertaken in vitro and in vivo.
Temperature-Responsive Magnetic Nanoparticles for Bioanalysis of Lysozyme in Urine Samples
Authors: Ahmed Marwa A. , Erdőssy Júlia , Horvath Viola
Published: November 2021

Highly selective multifunctional magnetic nanoparticles containing a thermoresponsive polymer shell were developed and used in the sample pretreatment of urine for the assessment of lysozymuria in leukemia patients. Crosslinked poly(N-isopropylacrylamide-co-acrylic acid-co-N-tert-butylacrylamide) was grown onto silica-coated magnetic nanoparticles by reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization. The lysozyme binding property of the nanoparticles was investigated as a function of time, protein concentration, pH, ionic strength and temperature and their selectivity was assessed against other proteins. High-abundant proteins, like human serum albumin and γ-globulins did not interfere with the binding of lysozyme even at elevated concentrations characteristic of proteinuria. A sample cleanup procedure for urine samples has been developed utilizing the thermocontrollable protein binding ability of the nanoparticles. Method validation was carried out according to current bioanalytical method validation guidelines. The method was highly selective, and the calibration was linear in the 25 to 1000 µg/mL concentration range, relevant in the diagnosis of monocytic and myelomonocytic leukemia. Intra- and inter-day precision values ranged from 2.24 to 8.20% and 1.08 to 5.04%, respectively. Intra-day accuracies were between 89.9 and 117.6%, while inter-day accuracies were in the 88.8 to 111.0% range. The average recovery was 94.1 ± 8.1%. Analysis of unknown urine samples in comparison with a well-established reference method revealed very good correlation between the results, indicating that the new nanoparticle-based method has high potential in the diagnosis of lysozymuria.
Preparation and Stabilization of High Molecular Weight Poly (acrylonitrile-co-2-methylenesuccinamic acid) for Carbon Fiber Precursor
Authors: Zhang Shuxian , Dang Yanjin , Ni Xuepeng , Yuan Chunshun , Chen Huifang , Ju Anqi
Published: November 2021

Bifunctional comonomer 2-methylenesuccinamic acid (MLA) was designed and synthesized to prepare acrylonitrile copolymer P (AN-co-MLA) using mixed solvent polymerization as a carbon fiber precursor. The effect of monomer feed ratios on the structure and stabilization were characterized by elemental analysis (EA), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), gel permeation chromatography (GPC), X-ray diffraction (XRD), proton nuclear magnetic (1H NMR), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) for the P (AN-co-MLA) copolymers. The results indicated that both the conversion and molecular weight of polymerization reduce gradually when the MLA content is increased in the feed and that bifunctional comonomer MLA possesses a larger reactivity ratio than acrylonitrile (AN). P (AN-co-MLA) shows improved stabilization compared to the PAN homopolymer and poly (acrylonitrile-acrylic acid-methacrylic acid) [P (AN-AA-MA)], showing features such as lower initiation temperature, smaller cyclic activation energy, wider exothermic peak, and a larger stabilization degree, which are due to the ionic cyclization reaction initiated by MLA, confirming that the as-prepared P (AN-co-MLA) is the potential precursor for high-performance carbon fiber.
Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) Electrosynthesis in the Presence of Mixtures of Flexible-Chain and Rigid-Chain Polyelectrolytes
Authors: Kabanova Varvara , Gribkova Oxana , Nekrasov Alexander
Published: November 2021

The electrochemical synthesis of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) was first carried out in the presence of mixtures of flexible-chain and rigid-chain polyacids and their Na-salts. Earlier on with the example of polyaniline, we have shown the non-additive effect of the rigid-chain component of polyacid mixtures on the electrodeposition of polyaniline films, their morphology and spectroelectrochemical properties. In this study, we confirmed the non-additive effect and showed that such mixed PEDOT–polyelectrolyte films possess unique morphology, spectroelectrochemical and ammonia sensing properties. The electrosynthesis was carried out in potential cycling, galvanostatic and potentiostatic regimes and monitored by in situ UV–Vis spectroscopy. UV–Vis spectroelectrochemistry of the obtained PEDOT–polyelectrolyte films revealed the dominating influence of the rigid-chain polyacid on the electronic structure of the mixed complexes. The mixed PEDOT–polyacid films demonstrated the best ammonia sensing performance (in the range of 5 to 25 ppm) as compared to the films of individual PEDOT–polyelectrolyte films.
Cationic Lignin Polymers as Flocculant for Municipal Wastewater
Authors: Moore Courtney , Gao Weijue , Fatehi Pedram
Published: November 2021

The radical polymerization of acid-washed and unwashed softwood kraft lignin with [2-(methacryloyloxy) ethyl] trimethylammonium chloride (METAC) was attempted to investigate the production of lignin-based flocculants for simulated wastewater. The incorporation of METAC onto lignin resulted in a cationic charge density (2.3–3.3 meq/g), increased water solubility (89–96% in neutral pH), and increased molecular weight (70,000–210,000 g/mol) of lignin. The lignin–METAC polymers generated from acid-washed lignin had higher molecular weights than those generated from unwashed lignin. The lignin–METAC polymers showed lower resistance to thermal decomposition than unmodified lignin due to the inclusion of PolyMETAC. The unmodified acid-washed lignin samples did not significantly affect the COD of the wastewater, while the unmodified unwashed lignin samples contributed to the COD, implying that unmodified lignin was not suitable for wastewater treatment. The flocculation of wastewater with lignin–METAC led to the chemical oxygen demand (COD) reduction of 17–23% and total organic carbon (TOC) drop of 51–60%. The lignin–METAC polymer with the highest molecular weight (produced from acid-washed lignin) reached the highest COD removal, while lignin–METAC polymer with the highest charge density (produced from unwashed lignin) reached the highest TOC removal. Focused beam reflectance measurement (FBRM) studies revealed that the lignin–METAC polymer produced from acid-washed lignin with a high molecular weight generated larger and more flocs in wastewater than the lignin–METAC polymer produced from unwashed lignin. The comparison of theoretical and experimental dosages required for neutralizing the charges of wastewater demonstrated that charge neutralization was the main flocculation mechanism, although a bridging mechanism was also involved for component removals from wastewater. The use of 1 mg/L of alum along with 65 mg/L lignin–METAC in a dual coagulation–flocculation system led to higher average phosphorous (42%) and COD (44%) removals than the singular flocculation system only using 65 mg/L of lignin–METAC (with phosphorous removals of 3.4% and COD removals of 18.7%). However, lignin–METAC flocculant slightly increased the ammonia–nitrogen content in both singular flocculation and dual coagulation–flocculation systems due to the residual ammonia content of lignin–METAC. The coagulation–flocculation system determined that the use of lignin–METAC (65 mg/L) could reduce the alum dosage significantly while maintaining a similar organic content reduction of 44% for wastewater.
Relating Compassion, Spirituality, and Scandal before Unjust Suffering: An Empirical Assessment
Authors: Oviedo Lluis , Torralba Josefa
Published: November 2021

Recent studies in the field of cognitive science of religion have proposed a connection between religious beliefs, theory of mind, and prosocial behaviour. Theory of mind appears to be related to empathy and compassion, and both to a special sensitivity towards unjust suffering, which could trigger a religious crisis, as has often happened and is revealed in the “theodicy question”. To test such relationships, adolescents were surveyed by an exploratory questionnaire. The collected data point to a more complex, less linear interaction, which depends more on cultural factors and reflexive elaboration than cognitive structures. In general, compassion and outrage before unjust suffering appear to be quite related; compassion is related to religious practice and even more to spiritual perception.
Synergy of Remote Sensing Data for Exploring Hydrothermal Mineral Resources Using GIS-Based Fuzzy Logic Approach
Authors: Abdelkareem Mohamed , Al-Arifi Nassir
Published: November 2021

The Arabian Nubian Shield (ANS) contains a variety of gold deposits in the form of veins and veinlets formed by hydrothermal fluids. Characterizing potential areas of hydrothermal alteration zones therefore provides a significant tool for prospecting for hydrothermal gold deposits. In this study, we develop a model of exploration for hydrothermal mineral resources in an area located in the ANS, Egypt, using multiple criteria derived from Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER), Landsat-Operational Land Imager (OLI), and Sentinel-2 data and field work through GIS-based fuzzy logic approach. The hydrothermal alteration zones (HAZs) map extracted from combining mineral indices, spectral bands, and ratios is consistent with observed argillic alteration zones around the mineralized veins. Combining HAZs and lineament density led to identification of six zones based on their mineralization potential, and provides a tool for successful reconnaissance prospecting for future hydrothermal mineral deposits. The detected zones are labeled as excellent, very high, high, moderate, low, and very low, based on their potential for Au production, and the predictive excellent and very high zones cover about 1.6% of the study area. This model also shows that target prospective zones are quartz veins controlled by NNW-SSE trending fracture/fault zones all crosscutting Precambrian rocks of the ANS. Field observations and petrographic and X-ray diffraction analyses were performed to validate the mineral prospective map and revealed that quartz veins consist of gold–sulfide mineralization (e.g., gold, pyrite, chalcopyrite, and sphalerite). Consistency between the high potential hydrothermal alterations zones (HAZs) and the location of gold mineralization is achieved.
Evaluation of Sustainable Development of Tourism Cities Based on SDGs and Tourism Competitiveness Index: Analysis of 221 Prefecture-Level Cities in China
Authors: Gao Junli , Shao Chaofeng , Chen Sihan , Wei Zizhang
Published: November 2021

Based on the Sustainable Development Goals and competitiveness index, an evaluation index system for sustainable development of tourism cities was established. The sustainable development level of 221 outstanding tourism cities in 2018 was evaluated, and their sustainable development paths were designed accordingly. The results show the following: (1) There is a large gap in sustainable development scores. In general, no city has achieved a strong sustainable development model. Natural and cultural resources and protection systems are the shortcomings of the systems. (2) The weights of natural and cultural resources and protection systems are the largest, and the weights of natural and cultural resources endowment, degree of tourism infrastructure construction, and economic support for natural and cultural resources are larger. Nature reserve coverage index, network popularity, and other indicators have greater weight. (3) There is a gap in the sustainable development level of tourism cities in the eight comprehensive economic zones. The economic zones in the eastern and southern coastal areas are better than those in the northwest and the middle reaches of the Yellow River. (4) The driving factors of the eight types of tourism cities distinguished by their characteristics are basically the same, but the obstacles are different.
A Review of the Processes Associated with the Removal of Oil in Water Pollution
Authors: Cerff Bradley , Key David , Bladergroen Bernard
Published: November 2021

Water plays an essential role in production and refining processes. Many industries that use petrochemicals also require water, especially for cleaning purposes. The wastewaters released by these processes are often rich in petroleum pollutants, which requires significant treatment prior to disposal. The presence of petroleum contaminants in rivers and oceans is a significant threat to human health, as well as to many animal species. A current challenge for most industries and conventional effluent treatment plants is compliance with accepted disposal standards for oil-polluted wastewater. Of particular importance is the processing of dispersed oil in water, as well as oil in water emulsion. Conventional oil and water separation methods for processing oil in water contamination have several technology gaps in terms of applicability and efficiency. The removal and effective processing of dispersed oil and emulsions from oily wastewater is a costly and significant problem. The objective of this paper is to provide a review of the principles associated with oil in water emulsion separation, with the aim of providing a more definitive understanding of the terminology, processes, and methodologies, which will assist the development of a more efficient, innovative and environmentally friendly process for the separation of oily wastewater.
Electricity Markets Instability: Causes of Price Dispersion
Authors: Chen Qiang , Balian Anush , Kyzym Mykola , Salashenko Tetiana , Gryshova Inna , Khaustova Viktoriia
Published: November 2021

The creation of a single competitive EU energy market is aimed at establishing a fair price in the integrated market space. However, electricity markets in European countries remain rather fragmented, and the marginal pricing method, which is the basic one used in the market, conditions a persistent price dispersion in the search for market equilibrium. This study examines the dispersion of electricity prices in 40 bidding zones in 26 European countries by means of quartile analysis. The geographic orientation of the markets, direction of electricity flows, and structure of electricity generation are considered as the causes of this dispersion. In the study, the geographical boundaries of the electricity markets are determined using the methods of correlation analysis of prices and transitive closure of commercial electricity flows. This makes it possible to single out highly integrated, moderately integrated, poorly integrated, and non-integrated markets. Using cluster analysis, electricity markets are classified according to the structure of electricity generation and direction of flows, with the identification of five clusters based on the dominant type of generation and three clusters based on the dominant direction of electricity supply. For each factor under investigation, the intragroup price dispersion is established. The results of the study have allowed to build a three-dimensional matrix that provides for determining the directions of changes in electricity prices when moving between its quadrants.
Blockchain Technology Enhances Sustainable Higher Education
Authors: Bucea-Manea-Țoniş Rocsana , Martins Oliva M. D. , Bucea-Manea-Țoniş Radu , Gheorghiță Cătălin , Kuleto Valentin , Ilić Milena P. , Simion Violeta-Elena
Published: November 2021

This research investigates blockchain technology, focusing on the influence of motivation on collaborative work, which positively influences learning performance in Higher Education Institutions (HEI). In addition, blockchain technology is correlated with decentralisation, security and integrity, and anonymity and encryption. It can also be perceived as a consensus mechanism, rewarding students, professors, and universities as a smart contract. Therefore, this technology has been used to improve higher education. It also allows less informed people to interact with better-informed peers and mentors. Finally, this study aims to enhance the current state of blockchain applications comprehension. The methodology used for this research includes document analysis, literature review, content analysis (blockchain platforms), the case study method, and the survey method. In statistical considerations, aiming to evaluate indicators, this research presents the Composite Reliability Analysis, Cronbach Alpha Coefficients, and the Bootstrapping method (Variance Inflation Factor). All these analyses aimed to present a designed research model. This exploratory research gathered data from 150 students at 3 universities in Serbia, Romania, and Portugal. As demonstrated, using student motivation has a significant and positive impact on the quality of student collaborative work. Student collaborative work also correlates with students’ higher level of engagement in the educational process, and the more engaged students are, the better their learning outcomes will be. As a result, in higher education, student involvement boosted learning outcomes. Researchers found that motivation, teamwork, and student involvement were important factors in improving student learning outcomes, as were blockchain-based tools. The results from the quantitative analysis indicate that Collaborative work, Motivation, Engagement, MOOCs, AR, VR, Gamification, and Online class were associated with learning performance.
Sustainable Agrifood Value Chain—Transformation in Developing Countries
Authors: Hidayati Dwi Ratna , Garnevska Elena , Childerhouse Paul
Published: November 2021

To service high-value international markets, many agrifood value chains in developing countries are required to transform to meet the strict quality and safety standards. This transformation process has become further complicated by increased sustainability expectations. The key players in these countries, typically smallholders, are struggling to meet this new sustainability value focus. Economic drivers pervade in this context, whilst the lack of integration often decouples producers from the end market. To address these challenges, this paper develops a framework to enable sustainable agrifood value chain transformation in developing countries. A narrative review was used to analyse the major enablers and barriers in sustainable agrifood value chain transformation specifically in developing countries. The framework novelty lies in the synthesis and prioritisation of transformations actions, by integrating three central dimensions: sustainability, governance, and value addition. The incorporation of sustainability drivers into value chain governance provides a holistic approach that balances profit maximization with social and environmental impacts, thus enabling smallholders in developing countries to access higher value markets. The framework can assist these value chain actors in identifying their transformation trajectory and guide policymakers, along with the public sector, in prioritising their intervention to overcome barriers.
The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Global Value Chain of the Manufacturing Industry
Authors: Sun Jiaze , Lee Huijuan , Yang Jun
Published: November 2021

This paper adopts the GDYN model to estimate the dynamic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on global manufacturing industry and the value chain. Our simulation finds that (1) In the short run, the low-tech manufacturing industries will suffer greater shocks, with a decline of output growth in 2021 by 6.0%. The growth rate of the high-tech manufacturing industry showed an increasing trend of 3.7% in 2021. (2) In the post-epidemic period, the total manufacturing output will return to the baseline level, from which the growth rate of low-tech manufacturing will rebound, demonstrating a V-shaped development trajectory. (3) From the perspective of Global Value Chain (GVC), the participation in GVCs of manufacturers in countries along the Belt and Road, the European Union and the United States will weaken, while China’s manufacturing industry has witnessed an obvious improvement in export competitiveness. The import added value of China has decreased, which shows that its ability to meet domestic demand has been improving. This indicates that the COVID-19 pandemic is providing a crucial opportunity for China to upgrade its manufacturing value chain, which contributes to the accelerated construction of a new dual-cycle development pattern.