bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elevating Supercapacitor Performance of Co3O4-g-C3N4 Nanocomposites Fabricated via the Hydrothermal Method
Authors: Yewale Manesh A. , Kumar Vineet , Teli Aviraj M. , Beknalkar Sonali A. , Nakate Umesh T. , Shin Dong-Kil
Published: March 2024

The hydrothermal method has been utilized to synthesize graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) polymers and cobalt oxide composites effectively. The weight percentage of g-C3N4 nanoparticles influenced the electrochemical performance of the Co3O4-g-C3N4 composite. In an aqueous electrolyte, the Co3O4-g-C3N4 composite electrode, produced with 150 mg of g-C3N4 nanoparticles, revealed remarkable electrochemical performance. With an increase in the weight percentage of g-C3N4 nanoparticles, the capacitive contribution of the Co3O4-g-C3N4 composite electrode increased. The Co3O4-g-C3N4-150 mg composite electrode shows a specific capacitance of 198 F/g. The optimized electrode, activated carbon, and polyvinyl alcohol gel with potassium hydroxide were used to develop an asymmetric supercapacitor. At a current density of 5 mA/cm2, the asymmetric supercapacitor demonstrated exceptional energy storage capacity with remarkable energy density and power density. The device retained great capacity over 6k galvanostatic charge–discharge (GCD) cycles, with no rise in series resistance following cyclic stability. The columbic efficiency of the asymmetric supercapacitor was likewise high.
Association between Gut Microbiota and Muscle Strength in Japanese General Population of the Iwaki Health Promotion Project
Authors: Sugimura Yoshikuni , Yang Yichi , Kanda Akira , Mawatari Akihiro , Tamada Yoshinori , Mikami Tatsuya , Nakaji Shigeyuki , Ihara Kazushige
Published: March 2024

The association between the gut microbiota and muscle strength has garnered attention in the context of mitigating muscle decline. However, many study subjects have been individuals with existing illnesses or the elderly only. This study aims to elucidate the association between the gut microbiota and muscle strength indicators using grip strength/BMI in a large-scale study of community residents. The mean age of men (n = 442) and women (n = 588) was 50.5 (15.3) and 51.2 (15.9) years, respectively. The muscle strength indicator used was grip/BMI. The association between total read count and genus-level gut microbiota and muscle strength was analyzed. The mean grip/BMI was 1.8 (0.3) for men and 1.2 (0.2) for women. The genus of the gut microbiota that showed an association in both sexes was Eggerthella (men: β = 0.18, CI: 0.04–0.31, p = 0.009; women: β = 0.07, CI: 0.00–0.12, p = 0.028). Blautia, Eggerthella and Faecalibacterium were found to be significantly associated with grip/BMI in both the multiple regression analysis and Spearman’s correlation analysis after the multiple comparison adjustment. These results suggest that an increase in Blautia and Eggerthella, coupled with a decrease in Faecalibacterium, may contribute to muscle strengthening or the suppression of muscle weakness.
Geochemistry, Mineralization, and Fluid Inclusion Study of the Bayan-Uul Porphyry Au-Cu-(Mo) Deposit, Central Mongolia
Authors: Bilegsaikhan Bolor-Erdene , Yonezu Kotaro , Sereenen Jargalan , Sarantuya Oyungerel , Borshigo Baasanjargal
Published: March 2024

The Bayan-Uul porphyry Au-Cu-(Mo) deposit occurs within the Mongol–Okhotsk Orogenic Belt, which is a part of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt. To understand geotectonic, petrogenesis, mineralization, and ore-forming fluid evolution of the Bayan-Uul deposit, we report petrographic and geochemical analyses of host rocks, mineralogy of ores, and fluid inclusion characteristics. Based on petrographic and mineralogical analyses, Cu, Mo, and Au mineralization occurs as disseminated and sulfide-bearing quartz–tourmaline veins hosted within granodiorites, monzodiorites, and diorite porphyry and tourmaline breccia. Four main alteration assemblages are identified: potassic, phyllic, argillic, and quartz–tourmaline alteration. The ore mineralogy of quartz–tourmaline veinlets are classified into A-type veinlets (quartz + tourmaline + chalcopyrite + magnetite + pyrite ± electrum), B-type veinlets (quartz + tourmaline + molybdenum + chalcopyrite + pyrite), and C-type veinlets (quartz + tourmaline + pyrite ± chalcopyrite). Fluid inclusions are found in quartz–tourmaline veinlets consisting mainly of liquid-rich two-phase (L-type), vapor-rich two-phase (V-type), and solid-bearing multi-phase (S-type) inclusions. The homogenization temperatures for the fluid inclusions in A-type, B-type, and C-type veinlets range from 215 to 490°C, 215 to 500 °C, and 160 to 350 °C and their salinity varies from 5.4 to 43.5 wt.%, 16 to 51.1 wt.%, and 3.4 to 24.1 wt.% NaCl equivalent, respectively. Coexistance of (L-type), (V-type), and (S-type) inclusions support fluid boiling. The δ18O values of ore fluids from different mineralizing A-, B-, and C-type veins are 8.7‰, 10.9‰, and 8.4‰, respectively, and the δ34S values of sulfide minerals range from −1.4‰ to 5.3‰, which indicates magmatic origin.
Fabrication of Pre-Structured Substrates and Growth of CIGS Micro-Absorbers
Authors: Alves Marina , Anacleto Pedro , Teixeira Vasco , Carneiro Joaquim , Sadewasser Sascha
Published: March 2024

Second-generation thin-film Cu(In, Ga)Se2 (CIGS) solar cells are a well-established photovoltaic technology with a record power conversion efficiency of 23.6%. However, their reliance on critical raw materials, such as In and Ga, requires new approaches to reduce the amount of critical raw materials employed. The micro-concentrator concept involves the combination of thin-film photovoltaic technology with concentrator photovoltaic technology. This approach reduces the size of the solar cell to the micrometer range and uses optical concentration to collect sunlight from a larger area, focusing it onto micro solar cells. This work is devoted to the development of a process for manufacturing pre-structured substrates with regular arrays of holes with 200 and 250 µm diameters inside a SiOx insulating matrix. Subsequently, a Cu–In–Ga precursor is deposited by sputtering, followed by photoresist lift-off and the application of a Cu–In–Ga thermal annealing at 500 °C to improve precursor quality and assess pre-structured substrate stability under elevated temperatures. Finally, a two-stage selenization process leads to the formation of CIGS absorber micro-dots. This study presents in detail the fabrication process and explores the feasibility of a bottom-up approach using pre-structured substrates, addressing challenges encountered during fabrication and providing insights for future improvements in CIGS absorber materials.
A Conductive Microcavity Created by Assembly of Carbon Nanotube Buckypapers for Developing Electrochemically Wired Enzyme Cascades
Authors: Jeerapan Itthipon , Nedellec Yannig , Cosnier Serge
Published: March 2024

We describe the creation of a conductive microcavity based on the assembly of two pieces of carbon nanotube buckypaper for the entrapment of two enzymes, horseradish peroxidase (HRP) and glucose oxidase (GOx), as well as a redox mediator: 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid diammonium salt (ABTS). The hollow electrode, employing GOx, HRP, and the mediator, as an electrochemical enzyme cascade model, is utilized for glucose sensing at a potential of 50 mV vs. Ag/AgCl. This bienzyme electrode demonstrates the ability to oxidize glucose by GOx and subsequently convert H2O2 to water via the electrical wiring of HRP by ABTS. Different redox mediators (ABTS, potassium hexacyanoferrate (III), and hydroquinone) are tested for HRP wiring, with ABTS being the best candidate for the electroenzymatic reduction of H2O2. To demonstrate the possibility to optimize the enzyme cascade configuration, the enzyme ratio is studied with 1 mg HRP combined with variable amounts of GOx (1–4 mg) and 2 mg GOx combined with variable amounts of HRP (0.5–2 mg). The bienzyme electrode shows continuous operational stability for over a week and an excellent storage stability in phosphate buffer, with a decay of catalytic current by only 29% for 1 mM glucose after 100 days.
Dietary Inflammatory Index, Sleep Duration, and Sleep Quality: A Systematic Review
Authors: Coxon Christle , Nishihira Jun , Hepsomali Piril
Published: March 2024

The inflammatory potential of the diet, as measured by the Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII®), has been repeatedly shown to be associated with various inflammatory markers and mental and physical health outcomes. Of specific importance, several cross-sectional studies revealed mixed results regarding the correlations between the DII and sleep outcomes. Hence, in the current paper, a systematic review that examines the associations between the DII, sleep duration, and sleep quality was performed. The PubMed database was systematically searched for studies published up to November 2023 following PRISMA guidelines. Only cross-sectional studies that assessed the DII, sleep duration, and sleep quality across healthy and unhealthy cohorts were included. Eleven and seven studies were included in the systematic review for sleep quality and duration, respectively. The results of the present systematic review show that pro-inflammatory diets may be associated with poor sleep outcomes (duration and quality); however, as the current literature is inconsistent and limited, further cross-sectional studies in larger cohorts are necessary to (i) explore this relationship to address this heterogeneity and (ii) explore populations that are more sensitive to diet-induced inflammation.
Methionine Supplementation Alleviates the Germ Cell Apoptosis Increased by Maternal Caffeine Intake in a C. elegans Model
Authors: Min Hyemin , Kim Juhae , Lee Mijin , Kang Sangwon , Shim Yhong-Hee
Published: March 2024

Caffeine (1,3,7-trimethylxanthine) is a widely consumed bioactive substance worldwide. Our recent study showed that a reduction in both reproduction and yolk protein production (vitellogenesis) caused by caffeine intake were improved by vitamin B12 supplementation, which is an essential co-factor in methionine metabolism. In the current study, we investigated the role of methionine in the reproduction of caffeine-ingested animals (CIAs). We assessed the effect of methionine metabolism on CIAs and found that caffeine intake decreased both methionine levels and essential enzymes related to the methionine cycle. Furthermore, we found that the caffeine-induced impairment of methionine metabolism decreased vitellogenesis and increased germ cell apoptosis in an LIN-35/RB-dependent manner. Interestingly, the increased germ cell apoptosis was restored to normal levels by methionine supplementation in CIAs. These results indicate that methionine supplementation plays a beneficial role in germ cell health and offspring development by regulating vitellogenesis.
Effects of Ethanol Concentrations on Primary Structural and Bioactive Characteristics of Dendrobium officinale Polysaccharides
Authors: Yu Juan , Long Yan , Chi Jinyue , Dai Keyao , Jia Xiaoyu , Ji Haiyu
Published: March 2024

Ethanol fractional precipitation can initially separate polysaccharides according to the structure, which exhibits strong correlation with the biological activities. This study aimed to investigate the impact of varying ethanol concentrations on the structural characteristics, and the antitumor and antioxidant activities of polysaccharides derived from Dendrobium officinale through ethanol fractional precipitation, as well as their internal relationships. The polysaccharides acquired by absolute alcohol additions at a final liquor-ethanol volume ratio of 1:1, 1:2, and 1:4 were named DOP-1, DOP-2, and DOP-4, and the supernatant was named DOP-S. The results of the structural analysis revealed that the increase in ethanol concentrations resulted in a reduction in the molecular weights and the acetylation degree of the polysaccharides, as well as a decrease in mannose content and an increase in glucose content. In vitro experiments demonstrated that DOP-S exhibited optimal antitumor and antioxidant activities. Animal experiments further confirmed that DOP-S suppressed the growth of solid tumors significantly, enhanced lymphocytes, mediated immune ability, and improved the activity of antioxidant enzymes. These findings would establish a theoretical foundation and provide technical support for further advances and applications of polysaccharides derived from D. officinale in the fields of food and medicine.
Tolerance and Safety of an Anti-Regurgitation Formula Containing Locust Bean Gum, Pre-, and Postbiotics: A Multi-Country Multi-Center Prospective Randomized Controlled Study in Infants with Regurgitation
Authors: Salvatore Silvia , Klymenko Viktoriia , Karpushenko Yuliia , Durczak-Hilleman Maria , Loboda Andrii , Petrashenko Viktoriia , Olechowski Wiesław , Lista Gianluca , Meneghin Fabio , Amodio Sonia , Bongers Anke , Ludwig Thomas , Vandenplas Yvan
Published: March 2024

This multi-center prospective randomized controlled trial was a tolerance and safety study investigating the thickener locust bean gum (LBG) in infants with regurgitation, to support the re-evaluation of the safety of LBG in infant formula. The primary objective was to demonstrate that after an 8-week intervention, stool consistency was not inferior (i.e., was not looser or more watery) in infants fed an anti-regurgitation (AR) formula containing LBG vs. the stool consistency of infants fed with an unthickened control formula. A total of 103 full-term infants with regurgitation were randomized to the test or control formula. The test formula contained LBG (0.4 g/100 mL), short-chain galacto-oligosaccharides, and long-chain fructo-oligosaccharides (scGOS/lcFOS; 9:1; 0.4 g/100 mL) and postbiotics and the control formula contained scGOS/lcFOS (0.8 g/100 mL), the same amount of postbiotics, and did not contain LBG. The average stool consistency score at the 8th intervention week was the primary outcome parameter. Secondary outcome parameters were stool consistency at other timepoints, stool frequency, Infant Gastrointestinal Symptom Questionnaire (IGSQ) score, growth, (serious) adverse events ([S]AEs), regurgitation severity, and infant well-being. Overall, the infants were 36.9 ± 12.9 [mean ± SD] days old, 62.7% girls in the test, and 50.0% girls in the control group. The primary analysis showed that the test group did not have looser or more watery stools than the control group. IGSQ sum scores decreased comparably in both groups. The frequency of regurgitation was significantly lower in the test group compared to the control group (mixed model repeated measurement, p ≤ 0.028) and parent-reported well-being scores were favorable. Adequate growth was observed in both groups. Both products were well-tolerated and safe and the AR formula with LBG was efficacious in reducing regurgitation frequency. This study provides further evidence for the dietary management of regurgitation by LBG-containing formulae in infants who are not exclusively breastfed, and the reassurance it can bring to parents.
Assessment of Body Mass Index, Body Composition, Physical Activity, and Dietary Preferences in University Students: A Pilot Study
Authors: Petřeková Karin , Borzenko Nadezhda , Kovalová Martina , Gottfriedová Nikol
Published: March 2024

(1) Background: Body composition analysis, particularly the assessment of the amount and distribution of body fat and muscle mass in young people, is of considerable clinical importance for the detection of nutritional disorders. (2) Methods: University students aged 19–25 years had their body composition measured using a bioimpedance (BIA) device InBody 370S. Furthermore, a questionnaire survey was performed using the questionnaires: factors that influence your choice of food (FCQ); food preference questionnaire for adolescents and adults (FPQ); the international physical activity questionnaire (IPAQ). (3) Results: Body mass index (BMI) values were within a normal range in 89.5% of men and 77.9% of women, while statistically significant differences between the sexes were confirmed for all body parameters (p < 0.001; p = 0.025). The waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and percentage body fat (PBF) were abnormally high in 50.4% and 44.3% of women, respectively. High values of skeletal muscle mass (SMM), protein, minerals, and bone mineral content (BMC) were identified in 36.8% of men. A total of 88 students (66.7% of men and women) had a higher level of physical activity, i.e., achieved metabolic equivalent (MET) values of more than 3000 per week. (4) Conclusions: BMI does not always have explanatory power for assessing body weight, as it does not consider the percentage distribution of fat and non-fat body mass in the total body weight. Physical activity and a varied diet have a positive effect on achieving optimal body weight and are effective in preventing nutritional disorders (such as obesity and malnutrition) and associated health problems.
A Non-Destructive Study of Optical, Geometric and Luminescent Parameters of Active Optical Fibers Preforms
Authors: Konstantinov Yuri Aleksandrovich , Turov Artem Timofeevich , Latkin Konstantin Pavlovich , Claude D , Azanova Irina Sergeevna
Published: March 2024

This work is devoted to the scientific and technical aspects of individual stages of active optical fibers preforms’ optical-geometric parameters metrological control. The concept of a system presented makes it possible to carry out a study of a rare earth element distribution in the preform of an active optical fiber and to monitor geometric parameters, and also to study the evolution of the refractive index profile along the length of the sample at a qualitative level. As far as it is known, it is the first description of the preform optical, geometric, and luminescent properties measurement within a single automated laboratory bench. Also, the novelty of the approach lies in the fact that the study of the refractive index profile variation along the length of the preform is, for the first time, conducted using the “dry” method, that is, without immersing the sample in synthetic oil, which makes the process less labor-intensive and safer.
Regulation of Autophagosome–Lysosome Fusion by Human Viral Infections
Authors: Ke Po-Yuan
Published: March 2024

Autophagy plays a fundamental role in maintaining cellular homeostasis by eliminating intracellular components via lysosomes. Successful degradation through autophagy relies on the fusion of autophagosomes to lysosomes, which leads to the formation of autolysosomes containing acidic proteases that degrade the sequestered materials. Viral infections can exploit autophagy in infected cells to balance virus–host cell interactions by degrading the invading virus or promoting viral growth. In recent years, cumulative studies have indicated that viral infections may interfere with the fusion of autophagosomes and lysosomes, thus benefiting viral replication and associated pathogenesis. In this review, I provide an overview of the current understanding of the molecular mechanism by which human viral infections deregulate autophagosome–lysosome fusion and summarize the physiological significance in the virus life cycle and host cell damage.
Lead Contamination in Meat and Offal from Game (Ruminants), Destined for Raw Feeding of Dogs and Retailed in Austria
Authors: Paulsen Peter , Lindinger Sarah , Eder-Rohm Karin , Eder Gerhard , Bauer Susanne
Published: March 2024

Bullet-derived lead (Pb) is a food safety hazard in meat from hunted wild game. Dogs can be exposed to alimentary Pb when fed with meat from wild game. We studied Pb contamination in 47 commercial “bones-and-raw-food” (BARF) packages from wild game meat and offal sold in Austria. Samples were first tested with a metal detector (calibrated for 2.5 mm diameter objects), then by X-ray, and Pb content was determined in sample areas free from metal-dense particles (as assessed in radiographs). Three samples tested positive by the metal detector (particle sizes ranged from 3 mm × 2 mm × 2 mm to 10 mm × 8 mm × 5 mm), with two particles from lead and one from tombac. Metal-dense objects were found in radiographs of 35/47 samples. In 13/47 samples, particles > 1 mm in diameter, and in 33/47 samples, smaller ones (median of five particles per sample) were noted. Lead content was above 1.5 mg/kg wet weight in 19/47 samples and exceeded the limit for general animal feed of 10 mg/kg wet weight in 5 of these 19 samples. The Pb contents as well as the presence of metal particles indicate that there is a feed safety issue in the samples analyzed. By a metal detector, the presence of large fragments was indicated in three samples, which casts doubt on whether all producers use a metal detector to scan the packages before delivery.
NLC-Based Sunscreen Formulations with Optimized Proportion of Encapsulated and Free Filters Exhibit Enhanced UVA and UVB Photoprotection
Authors: de Araújo Margarete M. , Schneid Andressa C. , Oliveira Mariana S. , Mussi Samuel V. , de Freitas Miller N. , Carvalho Flávia C. , Bernes Junior Edson A. , Faro Renato , Azevedo Hatylas
Published: March 2024

The topical use of sunscreens is recommended for avoiding the damaging effects of UV radiation. However, improvements are still needed in the existing products to enhance their photoprotection effectiveness and safety. This involves minimizing the use of chemical UV filters while providing enhanced and prolonged photoprotection. This work investigated novel sunscreen formulations and their UV protection effects by encapsulating Uvinul® A, Tinosorb® S, and Uvinul® T150 into nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) based on bacuri butter and raspberry seed oil. First, the impact of critical formulation and process parameters on NLCs’ particle size was evaluated using a 22 Face Centered Central Composite Design. Then, formulations were evaluated in terms of critical quality factors, in vitro skin permeation, and in vitro and in vivo photoprotection activities. The developed NLCs-containing formulations exhibited appropriate size (122–135 nm), PdI (<0.3), encapsulation efficiency (>90%), and drug content (>80%), which were preserved for at least 90 days under different stability conditions. Moreover, these NLCs-based formulations had equivalent skin permeation to emulsion-based controls, and the addition of NLCs into sunscreen cream bases in the optimum proportion of 20% (w/w) resulted in enhanced UVA and UVB photoprotection levels, despite a 10% reduction in the total filters content. Altogether, these results describe the application of nanoencapsulated organic UV filters in innovative sunscreen formulations to achieve superior photoprotection and cosmeceutical properties.
All-Fiber Low-Modal-Crosstalk Demultiplexers for DSP-Free IM/DD LP-Mode MDM Transmission
Authors: Gao Yuyang , Cui Jian , Zhou Xian , Chen Zhangyuan , Li Juhao
Published: March 2024

Weakly coupled mode-division multiplexing (MDM) techniques supporting intensity modulation and direct detection (IM/DD) transmission are promising methods of enhancing the capacity of short-reach scenarios in which low-modal-crosstalk-mode demultiplexers for degenerate linear polarized (LP) modes are highly desired. In this paper, we review two degenerate-mode reception schemes. Firstly, a low-modal-crosstalk orthogonal combined reception method for degenerate modes is proposed based on all-fiber mode-selective couplers, in which signals in both degenerate modes are demultiplexed into the LP01 mode of single-mode fibers and then are multiplexed into the mutually orthogonal LP01 and LP11 modes of a two-mode fiber (TMF) for simultaneous detection. Secondly, a novel degenerate-mode-selective coupler consisting of an input few-mode fiber and an output TMF is proposed, which could demultiplex degenerate LP modes without any digital signal processing (DSP). Both demultiplexers are achieved based on the taper and polish process. The fabricated devices are characterized and compared. The results show that the proposed schemes can pave the way to the practical implementation of DSP-free IM/DD LP-mode MDM transmission systems.
Ultrasound-Guided Photoacoustic Imaging of Salivary Gland Hemodynamics in Rabbits
Authors: Bolookat Eftekhar Rajab , Vincent-Chong Vui King , Rich Laurie J. , Singh Anurag K. , Seshadri Mukund
Published: March 2024

Xerostomia (severe dry mouth) is a debilitating and often permanent side effect experienced by head and neck cancer patients due to radiation injury to salivary glands. In this study, we evaluated the potential of ultrasound (US)-guided photoacoustic imaging (PAI) to non-invasively assess early changes in salivary gland hemodynamics following radiation therapy (RT). US-guided PAI was performed in New Zealand white rabbits to visualize and quantify the hemoglobin concentration (HbT) and oxygen saturation (%sO2) of parotid glands before and after RT. The imaging findings were validated with histology and sialometry. An early increase in parotid gland HbT and %sO2 was seen following RT. Consistent with the PAI observations, histology of salivary glands revealed dilated blood vessels, along with hemorrhaging and fibrosis. Sialometric analysis confirmed a significant reduction in stimulated saliva secretion in irradiated rabbits compared to controls. Collectively, our findings demonstrate the translational utility of US-guided PAI as a valuable tool for label-free functional imaging of salivary gland hemodynamics in vivo.
Genome-Wide Identification of PYL/RCAR ABA Receptors and Functional Analysis of LbPYL10 in Heat Tolerance in Goji (Lycium barbarum)
Authors: Li Zeyu , Liu Jiyao , Chen Yan , Liang Aihua , He Wei , Qin Xiaoya , Qin Ken , Mu Zixin
Published: March 2024

The characterization of the PYL/RCAR ABA receptors in a great deal of plant species has dramatically advanced the study of ABA functions involved in key physiological processes. However, the genes in this family are still unclear in Lycium (Goji) plants, one of the well–known economically, medicinally, and ecologically valuable fruit crops. In the present work, 12 homologs of Arabidopsis PYL/RCAR ABA receptors were first identified and characterized from Lycium (L.) barbarum (LbPYLs). The quantitative real–time PCR (qRT–PCR) analysis showed that these genes had clear tissue–specific expression patterns, and most of them were transcribed in the root with the largest amount. Among the three subfamilies, while the Group I and Group III members were down–regulated by extraneous ABA, the Group II members were up–regulated. At 42 °C, most transcripts showed a rapid and violent up–regulation response to higher temperature, especially members of Group II. One of the genes in the Group II members, LbPYL10, was further functionally validated by virus–induced gene silencing (VIGS) technology. LbPYL10 positively regulates heat stress tolerance in L. barbarum by alleviating chlorophyll degradation, thus maintaining chlorophyll stability. Integrating the endogenous ABA level increase following heat stress, it may be concluded that LbPYL–mediated ABA signaling plays a vital role in the thermotolerance of L. barbarum plants. Our results highlight the strong potential of LbPYL genes in breeding genetically modified L. barbarum crops that acclimate to climate change.
Biological Control of Three Major Cucumber and Pepper Pests: Whiteflies, Thrips, and Spider Mites, in High Plastic Tunnels Using Two Local Phytoseiid Mites
Authors: Abou Jawdah Yusuf , Ezzeddine Nour , Fardoun Aya , Kharroubi Samer , Sobh Hana , Atamian Hagop S. , Skinner Margaret , Parker Bruce
Published: March 2024

To enhance food security, food safety, and environmental health, a bio-based integrated pest management (BIPM) strategy was evaluated at two coastal locations in Lebanon as an alternative to toxic pesticide sprays in commercial high-arched plastic tunnels common in many countries. The evaluation occurred during two cucumber and pepper cropping seasons: spring and fall. At each site, two commercial tunnels were used; farmers’ conventional practices were applied in one tunnel, while the BIPM approach was followed in the second tunnel. In the farmers’ practices, a total of 14 sprays of insecticide/acaricide mixtures were applied during the spring growing season, and 6 sprays were applied during the fall. In the BIPM tunnels, hotspot releases of local strains of Amblyseius swirskii and Phytoseiulus persimilis were applied. By the end of the spring season, the number of whitefly nymphs (WFNs)/leaf and thrips/leaf in the pesticide treatment were 4.8 and 0.06, respectively, compared to 0.1 and 0.33, respectively, in the BIPM treatment. Similarly, at the end of the fall season, the WFNs reached 19.7/leaf in the pesticide control as compared to 1.2/leaf in the BIPM treatment, proving the efficacy of A. swirskii. Farmers using conventional acaricides during both cropping seasons failed to control Tetranychus urticae, the two-spotted spider mite (TSSM). However, hotspot releases of P. persimilis were successful in controlling TSSM. By the end of June, the number of TSSMs reached 7.8/leaf in the BIPM treatment compared to 53/leaf in the pesticide treatment. Likewise, in December, TSSM numbers reached 9/leaf in the BIPM treatment compared to 40/leaf in the pesticide treatment. Preliminary observations of pepper showed that both predatory mites (A. swirskii and P. persimilis) gave similar or better efficacy against the three pests. The two local predatory phytoseiid mites seem to be effective in controlling these three major pests and to be adapted to local environmental conditions. A rate of increase of 0.86 was observed for P. persimilis and 0.22 for A. swirskii, in June, when maximum temperatures were close to 40 °C. This also shows a compatibility between the two predators. In conclusion, our BIPM approach was efficient under a Mediterranean climate in arched plastic tunnels with relatively poor aeration.
Progress in Polyhedral Oligomeric Silsesquioxane (POSS) Photoresists: A Comprehensive Review across Lithographic Systems
Authors: Wen Zaoxia , Liu Xingyu , Chen Wenxiu , Zhou Ruolin , Wu Hao , Xia Yongmei , Wu Lianbin
Published: March 2024

This paper offers a comprehensive overview of the polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) and POSS-based composites within the realm of photoresist resin. The study involves a systematic exploration and discussion of the contributions made by POSS across various lithographic systems, with specific emphasis on critical parameters such as film formation, sensitivity, resolution, solubility, and edge roughness. These lithographic systems encompass X-ray lithography (XRL), deep ultraviolet nanoimprint lithography (DUV-NIL), extreme ultraviolet lithography (EUV), and guided self-assembled lithography (DSA). The principal objective of this paper is to furnish valuable insights into the development and utilization of POSS-based photoresist materials in diverse lithographic contexts.
Optical Anisotropy of Polyethylene Terephthalate Films Characterized by Spectral Means
Authors: Avadanei Mihaela Iuliana , Dimitriu Dan Gheorghe , Dorohoi Dana Ortansa
Published: March 2024

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) films are the subject of intensive research because of great interest in using them in applications, especially in medicine. From an optical point of view, PET films with a low degree of stretching can be considered uniaxial materials, for which the determination of the linear birefringence and its dispersion is very important. Two methods were applied here for the estimation of these parameters: the ellipsometric method and the channeled spectra method. The ellipsometric method uses monochromatic radiation; therefore, the linear birefringence of the PET films is determined for a given value of the radiation wavelength. The channeled spectra method allows for the estimation of the linear birefringence and its dispersion for a large range of wavelengths in the visible spectrum. A decrease in both parameters with the increase in the wavelength was recorded. To evidence the microstructure of PET films and the conformational changes induced by elongation and to evaluate the degree of orientation, a polarized infrared spectral study in attenuated total reflection (ATR-FTIR) mode was performed. The dichroic ratio (between the absorbance measured with linearly polarized radiation parallel and orthogonal relative to the stretching direction, respectively) and the ATR absorbance ratio for the machine direction (MD) and transversal direction (TD) configurations both for the stretched and unstretched PET samples were measured.
Recent Advances in the Preparation and Application of Biochar Derived from Lignocellulosic Biomass: A Mini Review
Authors: Wang Kanglei , Remón Javier , Jiang Zhicheng , Ding Wei
Published: March 2024

With the rapid growth in the global population and the accelerating pace of urbanization, researching and developing novel strategies for biomass utilization is significant due to its potential for use in renewable energy, climate change mitigation, waste management, and sustainable agriculture. In this environmental context, this review discusses the recent advances in biomass conversion technologies for biochar production, including the first carbonization process and the subsequent activation methods of the biochar derived from lignocellulosic biomass (LBC). Parallel to this, this review deals with other essential parameters in biochar production, such as feedstock types, reaction environments, and operating conditions in the pyrolysis process, to determine the production and composition of LBC. Moreover, the wide-ranging applications of LBC in areas such as adsorption, catalysts, and energy storage are discussed, offering sustainable and environmentally friendly alternatives while reducing reliance on traditional energy sources and mineral resources, thereby providing practical solutions to environmental and energy challenges. Overall, this review not only provides a comprehensive comparative analysis of different LBC preparation methods, but also facilitates a deeper understanding of the advantages and limitations of these methodologies when it comes to developing high-value materials for sustainable applications.
A Finite Element Method for Determining the Mechanical Properties of Electrospun Nanofibrous Mats
Authors: Sanchaniya Jaymin Vrajlal , Lasenko Inga , Gobins Valters , Kobeissi Alaa , Goljandin Dmitri
Published: March 2024

This study focuses on the mechanical properties of electrospun nanofibrous mats, highlighting the importance of the characteristics of single nanofibers in determining the overall mechanical behavior of the mats. Recognizing the significant impacts of the diameter and structural properties of the nanofibers, this research introduces a novel methodology for deriving the effects of the mechanical properties of single nanofibers on the aggregate mechanical performance of electrospun oriented nanofiber mats. For this purpose, a finite element method (FEM) model is developed to simulate the elastoplastic response of the mats, incorporating the influence of structural parameters on mechanical properties. The validation of the FEM model against experimental data from electrospun polyacrylonitrile (PAN) nanofibers with different orientations demonstrates its effectiveness in capturing the elastic–plastic tensile behaviors of the material and confirms its accuracy in terms of reflecting the complex mechanical interactions within the nanofibrous mats. Through a detailed analysis of how nanofiber diameter, orientation of fibers, length-to-width ratio, and porosity affect the mechanical properties of the mats, this research provides valuable insights for the engineering of nanofibrous materials to meet specific mechanical requirements. These findings improve our understanding of nanofibrous mat structures, allowing for better performance in diverse applications as well as highlighting the critical importance of identifying the properties of single nanofibers and their associated impacts on material design.
Alkali Polymer Flooding of a Romanian Field Containing Viscous Reactive Oil
Authors: Hoffmann Eugen , Hincapie Rafael E. , Borovina Ante , Clemens Torsten , Tahir Muhammad , Lueftenegger Markus , Wegner Jonas
Published: March 2024

The study demonstrates the significant enhancement in oil production from a Romanian oil field using alkali–polymer (AP) flooding for reactive viscous oil. We conducted comprehensive interfacial tension (IFT) measurements across various alkali and AP concentrations, along with phase behavior assessments. Micromodel flooding experiments were used to examine pore-scale effects and select appropriate chemical concentrations. We tested displacement efficiency at the core level and experimented with different sequences and concentrations of alkali and polymers to minimize costs while maximizing the additional recovery of reactive viscous oil. The IFT analysis revealed that saponification at the oil–alkali interface significantly lowers IFT, but IFT gradually increases as soap diffuses away from the interface. Micromodels indicated that polymer or alkali injection alone achieve only minimal incremental recovery beyond waterflooding. However, AP flooding significantly enhanced incremental oil recovery by efficiently moving the mobilized oil with the viscous fluid and increasing exposure of more oil to the alkali solution. Coreflood experiments corroborated these findings. We also explored how divalent cations influence polymer concentration selection, finding that softening the injection brine significantly increased the viscosity of the AP slug.
Isobornyl and Isocamphyl Photostabilizers in Poly(lactic acid)-Based Electrospun Fibers
Authors: Belyi Vladimir , Kuzivanov Ivan M. , Fedorova Irina , Shumova Olga A. , Paderin Nikita , Markov Pavel A. , Pikovskoi Ilya I. , Chukicheva Irina Yu. , Kutchin Alexander V.
Published: March 2024

In this work, electrospun polylactide fibers with new photostabilizing additives, 4-methyl-2,6-diisobornylphenol (DIBP) and N-isocamphylaniline (NICA), have been tested under the influence of UV-C radiation (254 nm). The changes in the polymers’ chemical structure under UV-C radiation were revealed through the increase in absorption in the 3600–3100 cm−1 region in regard to the FTIR spectra. In the samples that were irradiated for 1 h, the stabilizing effect of the photoprotectors became most noticeable as the difference in the content of the hydroxyl groups in stabilized and the pure PLA reached a maximum. The TG–DSC method revealed that the most sensitive indicator of the irradiation effect was the glass transition temperature (Tg), which persisted after 2 h of irradiation when using photostabilizers and their combinations. The PLA/DIBP(1) and PLA/NICA(1) samples showed the best results in protecting PLA from UV-C radiation based on the Tg values; although, the mixture of DIBP and NICA was not as effective. The chemical structure of the photostabilized PLA samples was studied using NMR, GPC, and Py–GC/MS analysis. The electrospun polylactide fibers were mechanically tested and the effects of the electrospun samples on cell viability were studied.
Synergistic Effect of Carbon Nanotubes, Zinc, and Copper Oxides on Rheological Properties of Fracturing Fluid: A Comparative Study
Authors: Yehia Fatma , Gado Walaa , Al-Gamal Abdalrahman G. , Nishu  , Yang Chao , Liu Lihua , Kabel Khalid I.
Published: March 2024

Nanomaterials play a beneficial role in enhancing the rheological behavior of fracturing (frac) fluid by reacting with intermolecular structures. The inclusion of these materials into the fluid improves its stability, increases the viscosity of polymers, and enhances its resistance to high temperature and pressure. In this investigation, multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs), nano-zinc oxides (N-ZnO), and nano-copper oxides (N-CuO) have been utilized to ameliorate the rheological properties of water-based fracturing fluid. Different concentrations of these aforementioned nanomaterials were prepared to determine their effects on the rheological behavior of the fluid. The results revealed that the size of nanoparticles ranged from 10 to 500 nm, 300 nm, and 295 nm for CNTs, N-ZnO, and N-CuO, respectively. Moreover, employing CNTs exhibited a resistance of 550 cp at 25 °C and reached 360 cp at 50 °C with a CNT concentration of 0.5 g/L. In contrast, N-CuO and N-ZnO showed a resistance of 206 cp at 25 °C and significantly decreased to 17 cp and 16 cp with higher concentrations of 10 g/L and 1 g/L, respectively. Based on these findings, this study recommends utilizing CNTs to enhance fracking fluid’s chemical and physical properties, which need to be highly viscous and stable under reservoir conditions.
Solid-State Fermentation of Hyperactive Pectinase by the Novel Strain Aspergillus sp. CM96
Authors: Chen Huiling , Wan Meimei , Liu Yang , Yang Guanghua , Cai Zhiqiang
Published: March 2024

Pectinase, a kind of hydrolase, mainly contains polygalacturonase, pectinase, and pectin lyase, which can hydrolyze pectin to generate galacturonide and is widely used in industry. At present, pectinase’s activity is still relatively low. Hyperactive pectinase was produced with solid-phase fermentation and a tray bioreactor using the novel strain Aspergillus sp. CM96 in this study. This pectinase’s activity can reach 17,000 U·g−1 after fermentation with a tray bioreactor, an increase of 86% compared to that obtained using flask liquid fermentation. The pectinase was purified and its characteristics were explored. Additionally, during pectinase fermentation, the activities of protease, glucanase, and cellulase were also determined to reach 7000, 8000, and 3000 U·g−1. The enzyme mixture was used to improve substrate digestion efficiency in 144 Soviet white pigs after adding a 0.05% cocktail enzyme for 38 days. The results showed that the average daily gain (ADG) increased by 139.41 ± 1.04 g·day−1, while the average daily feed intake (ADFI) and the feed conversion rate (FCR) decreased by 19.82 ± 1.64 g·day−1 and 0.07 ± 0.01 in 38 days, which indicated that the addition of hyperactive pectinase from the strain CM96 can increase nutrient digestibility and improve feed efficiency.
Valorization of (Bio)Ethanol over MoO3/(WO3-ZrO2) Sol-Gel-like Catalysts
Authors: Soares Dias Ana Paula , Rijo Bruna , Costa Pereira Manuel Francisco , Zăvoianu Rodica , Pavel Octavian Dumitru
Published: March 2024

Bioethanol, which is currently produced commercially from a growing variety of renewable biomass and waste sources, is an appealing feedstock for the production of fuels and chemicals. The literature clearly shows that bioethanol is a versatile building block to be used in biorefineries. The ethanol conversion using several catalysts with acidic, basic, and redox characteristics results in a diverse assortment of high-value bioproducts. High-acidity tungsten zirconia-based catalysts are stated to compete with traditional zeolitic catalysts and can be employed in the dehydration of ethanol to ethylene, but for a low reaction temperature acetic acid is formed, which causes corrosion issues. WO3-ZrO2 (W/Zr = 1, atomic) catalysts modified with MoO3 were prepared by a sol-gel-like procedure and tested in a gas phase ethanol conversion in the presence of air. The citrate derived xerogels were annealed at 853 K for 12 h, allowing low surface area (<10 m2/g) materials with a Mo-W mixed-oxide-rich surface over tetragonal nanostructured zirconia. Catalysts with MoO3-loading produced mainly acetaldehyde, instead of ethylene, as a result of the high reducibility of Mo6+ when compared to W6+. During the reaction, the Mo6+ becomes partially reduced, but Mo6+/Mo5+ species are still active for methanol conversion with increased ethylene selectivity due to the high acidity of tetrahedral MOX species formed during the reaction. Adding water to ethanol, to simulate bioethanol, only leads to a slight inhibition in ethanol conversion over the MoO3/(WO3-ZrO2) catalysts. The results show that molybdenum oxide deposited on tungstated zirconia catalyst is active, with low sensitivity to water, for the valorization of bioethanol into high-value chemicals, such as ethylene and acetaldehyde, and whose selectivity can be tuned by changing the amount of MoO3 that is loaded. The MoO3/(WO3-ZrO2) catalysts prepared show catalytic behavior similar to that of noble metal-based catalysts reported in the literature for the dehydrogenation of bioethanol in high-value chemicals.
The Humanistic Process and Spatial Practice of Chinese Zhenshan 鎮山 Worship
Authors: Tang Siqi , Mao Huasong
Published: March 2024

The “Zhenshan” 鎮山 (which means a mountain that guards a certain territory) system is based on the traditional Chinese view of nature, which formed and developed through a long period of Confucian humanistic construction. It is the typical representation of China’s nature-oriented worship space, and it has unique spatial order and spatial significance in the world’s sacred mountain worship. The excavation of the spatial characteristics of Zhenshan worship and its network of humanistic meanings is an important part of research that aims to discover the traditional Chinese values of nature, religious views, and Chinese worship space. Based on the analysis of graphic historical materials and a digital chronicle literature review, this paper quantitatively analyzes the historical information of Zhenshan and summarizes the process of change from the birth of the concept of Zhenshan in the Zhou dynasty to the formation of the sacrificial system in the Han dynasty and its gradual localization after the Tang and Song dynasties with an analysis of its spatial pattern and characteristics of worship. The results show that Zhenshan is one of the typical cultural symbols of the transformation of Chinese mountain worship into the unity of government and religion. And it is a typical product of Confucianism, in which the worship of nature in China is integrated into the political system, and its worship space is rooted in the national, regional, and urban spaces at multiple levels. The Zhenshan system, in the course of its dynamic development, has formed two types of worship space: temple sacrificial and metaphorical constraint, constructing a Chinese worship space based on the order of nature, which is distinctly different from the inward-looking religious space of the West and the sacred mountain worship space formed around the religion of the “supreme god”.
Contemporary Critical Reflections on Ion Bria’s Vision for Ecumenical Dialogue
Authors: Marcu Doru
Published: March 2024

In this study, I will expose the perspective of the ecumenical dialogue in the theology of Fr. Ion Bria, one of the well-known Romanians involved in the ecumenical movement. In the first part, after a short introduction, I will present the most important biographical milestones of the Romanian theologian, as well as some details about his activity in the World Council of Churches. Then, in the second part, I will critically present the most important aspects of Bria’s ecumenical theology, as well as the reception of these ideas in contemporary Orthodox theology, in discussion with common witness and eucharistic communion within ecumenical dialogue. In the last part, I will present the critical remarks on ecumenism in Bria’s theology. Through this analysis, I will emphasize important directions that the ecumenical dialogue can exploit today to overcome some historical, cultural or theological preconceptions and misunderstandings.