bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Review of the Molecular Landscape of Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma of the Lacrimal Gland
Authors: Powell Sarah Kate , Kulakova Karina , Kennedy Susan
Published: September 2023

Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) has a worldwide incidence of three to four cases per million population. Although more cases occur in the minor and major salivary glands, it is the most common lacrimal gland malignancy. ACC has a low-grade, indolent histological appearance, but is relentlessly progressive over time and has a strong proclivity to recur and/or metastasise. Current treatment options are limited to complete surgical excision and adjuvant radiotherapy. Intra-arterial systemic therapy is a recent innovation. Recurrent/metastatic disease is common due to perineural invasion, and it is largely untreatable as it is refractory to conventional chemotherapeutic agents. Given the rarity of this tumour, the molecular mechanisms that govern disease pathogenesis are poorly understood. There is an unmet, critical need to develop effective, personalised targeted therapies for the treatment of ACC in order to reduce morbidity and mortality associated with the disease. This review details the evidence relating to the molecular underpinnings of ACC of the lacrimal gland, including the MYB–NFIB chromosomal translocations, Notch-signalling pathway aberrations, DNA damage repair gene mutations and epigenetic modifications.
Cardiometabolic Risk: Characteristics of the Intestinal Microbiome and the Role of Polyphenols
Authors: Haș Ioana Mariana , Tit Delia Mirela , Bungau Simona Gabriela , Pavel Flavia Maria , Teleky Bernadette-Emoke , Vodnar Dan Cristian , Vesa Cosmin Mihai
Published: September 2023

Cardiometabolic diseases like hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, atherosclerosis, and obesity have been associated with changes in the gut microbiota structure, or dysbiosis. The beneficial effect of polyphenols on reducing the incidence of this chronic disease has been confirmed by numerous studies. Polyphenols are primarily known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, but they can also modify the gut microbiota. According to recent research, polyphenols positively influence the gut microbiota, which regulates metabolic responses and reduces systemic inflammation. This review emphasizes the prebiotic role of polyphenols and their impact on specific gut microbiota components in patients at cardiometabolic risk. It also analyzes the most recent research on the positive effects of polyphenols on cardiometabolic health. While numerous in vitro and in vivo studies have shown the interaction involving polyphenols and gut microbiota, additional clinical investigations are required to assess this effect in people.
Actinidia deliciosa Extract as a Promising Supplemental Agent for Hepatic and Renal Complication-Associated Type 2 Diabetes (In Vivo and In Silico-Based Studies)
Authors: El Azab Eman Fawzy , Alakilli Saleha Y. M. , Saleh Abdulrahman M. , Alhassan Hassan H. , Alanazi Hamad H. , Ghanem Heba Bassiony , Yousif Sara Osman , Alrub Heba Abu , Anber Nahla , Elfaki Elyasa Mustafa , Hamza Alneil , Abdulmalek Shaymaa
Published: September 2023

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a chronic metabolic condition associated with obesity, oxidative stress-mediated inflammation, apoptosis, and impaired insulin signaling. The utilization of phytochemical therapy generated from plants has emerged as a promising approach for the treatment of diabetes and its complications. Kiwifruit is recognized for its substantial content of antioxidative phenolics. Therefore, this work aimed to examine the effect of Actinidia deliciosa (kiwi fruit) on hepatorenal damage in a high-fat diet (HFD) and streptozotocin (STZ)-induced T2D in rats using in vivo and in silico analyses. An increase in hepatic and renal lipid peroxidation was observed in diabetic rats accompanied by a decrease in antioxidant status. Furthermore, it is important to highlight that there were observable inflammatory and apoptotic responses in the hepatic and renal organs of rats with diabetes, along with a dysregulation of the phosphorylation levels of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), protein kinase B (Akt), and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) signaling proteins. However, the administration of kiwi extract to diabetic rats alleviated hepatorenal dysfunction, inflammatory processes, oxidative injury, and apoptotic events with activation of the insulin signaling pathway. Furthermore, molecular docking and dynamic simulation studies revealed quercetin, chlorogenic acid, and melezitose as components of kiwi extract that docked well with potential as effective natural products for activating the silent information regulator 1(SIRT-1) pathway. Furthermore, phenolic acids in kiwi extract, especially syringic acid, P-coumaric acid, caffeic acid, and ferulic acid, have the ability to inhibit the phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) active site. In conclusion, it can be argued that kiwi extract may present a potentially beneficial adjunctive therapy approach for the treatment of diabetic hepatorenal complications.
Simulating Space Conditions Evokes Different DNA Damage Responses in Immature and Mature Cells of the Human Hematopoietic System
Authors: Handwerk Leonie , Schreier Heike Katrin , Kraft Daniela , Shreder Kateryna , Hemmersbach Ruth , Hauslage Jens , Bonig Halvard , Wiesmüller Lisa , Fournier Claudia , Rall-Scharpf Melanie
Published: September 2023

The impact of space radiation and microgravity on DNA damage responses has been discussed controversially, largely due to the variety of model systems engaged. Here, we performed side-by-side analyses of human hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPC) and peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) cultivated in a 2D clinostat to simulate microgravity before, during and after photon and particle irradiation. We demonstrate that simulated microgravity (SMG) accelerates the early phase of non-homologous end joining (NHEJ)-mediated repair of simple, X-ray-induced DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) in PBL, while repair kinetics in HSPC remained unaltered. Repair acceleration was lost with increasing LET of ion exposures, which increases the complexity of DSBs, precluding NHEJ and requiring end resection for successful repair. Such cell-type specific effect of SMG on DSB repair was dependent on the NF-кB pathway pre-activated in PBL but not HSPC. Already under unperturbed growth conditions HSPC and PBL suffered from SMG-induced replication stress associated with accumulation of single-stranded DNA and DSBs, respectively. We conclude that in PBL, SMG-induced DSBs promote repair of radiation-induced damage in an adaptive-like response. HSPC feature SMG-induced single-stranded DNA and FANCD2 foci, i.e., markers of persistent replication stress and senescence that may contribute to a premature decline of the immune system in space.
Could Cyclosiversioside F Serve as a Dietary Supplement to Prevent Obesity and Relevant Disorders?
Authors: Qin Siqi , Chen Junren , Zhong Kexin , Li Dan , Peng Cheng
Published: September 2023

Obesity is the basis of numerous metabolic diseases and has become a major public health issue due to its rapidly increasing prevalence. Nevertheless, current obesity therapeutic strategies are not sufficiently effective, so there is an urgent need to develop novel anti-obesity agents. Naturally occurring saponins with outstanding bio-activities have been considered promising drug leads and templates for human diseases. Cyclosiversioside F (CSF) is a paramount multi-functional saponin separated from the roots of the food-medicinal herb Astragali Radix, which possesses a broad spectrum of bioactivities, including lowering blood lipid and glucose, alleviating insulin resistance, relieving adipocytes inflammation, and anti-apoptosis. Recently, the therapeutic potential of CSF in obesity and relevant disorders has been gradually explored and has become a hot research topic. This review highlights the role of CSF in treating obesity and obesity-induced complications, such as diabetes mellitus, diabetic nephropathy, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Remarkably, the underlying molecular mechanisms associated with CSF in disease therapy have been partially elucidated, especially PI3K/Akt, NF-κB, MAPK, apoptotic pathway, TGF-β, NLRP3, Nrf-2, and AMPK, with the aim of promoting the development of CSF as a functional food and providing references for its clinical application in obesity-related disorders therapy.
Transcription Factor Zbtb20 as a Regulator of Malignancy and Its Practical Applications
Authors: Stoyanov Dimo , Stoyanov George S. , Ivanov Martin N. , Spasov Radoslav H. , Tonchev Anton B.
Published: September 2023

Zbtb20 (zinc finger and BTB domain-containing protein 20) is a transcription factor with a zinc finger DNA binding domain and a BTB domain responsible for protein–protein interaction. Recently, this TF has received attention because new data showed its pivotal involvement in normal neural development and its regulatory effects on proliferation and differentiation in different tissues. Zbtb20 was shown to increase proliferation and migration and confer resistance to apoptosis in the contexts of many malignant tumors like hepatocellular carcinoma, non-small-cell lung carcinoma, gastric adenocarcinoma, glioblastoma multiforme, breast cancer, and acute myeloid leukemia. The involvement of Zbtb20 in tumor biology is best studied in hepatocellular carcinoma, where it is a promising candidate as an immunohistochemical tumor marker or may be used in patient screening. Here we review the current data connecting Zbtb20 with malignant tumors.
Exploring the JAK/STAT Signaling Pathway in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Unraveling Signaling Complexity and Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Park Hyunjung , Lee Sangjik , Lee Jaehun , Moon Hyuk , Ro Simon Weonsang
Published: September 2023

Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) continues to pose a substantial global health challenge due to its high incidence and limited therapeutic options. In recent years, the Janus Kinase (JAK) and Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription (STAT) pathway has emerged as a critical signaling cascade in HCC pathogenesis. The review commences with an overview of the JAK/STAT pathway, delving into the dynamic interplay between the JAK/STAT pathway and its numerous upstream activators, such as cytokines and growth factors enriched in pathogenic livers afflicted with chronic inflammation and cirrhosis. This paper also elucidates how the persistent activation of JAK/STAT signaling leads to diverse oncogenic processes during hepatocarcinogenesis, including uncontrolled cell proliferation, evasion of apoptosis, and immune escape. In the context of therapeutic implications, this review summarizes recent advancements in targeting the JAK/STAT pathway for HCC treatment. Preclinical and clinical studies investigating inhibitors and modulators of JAK/STAT signaling are discussed, highlighting their potential in suppressing the deadly disease. The insights presented herein underscore the necessity for continued research into targeting the JAK/STAT signaling pathway as a promising avenue for HCC therapy.
Fortified-Grid: Fortifying Smart Grids through the Integration of the Trusted Platform Module in Internet of Things Devices
Authors: Sharma Giriraj , Joshi Amit M. , Mohanty Saraju P.
Published: September 2023

This paper presents a hardware-assisted security primitive that integrates the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) into IoT devices for authentication in smart grids. Data and device security plays a pivotal role in smart grids since they are vulnerable to various attacks that could risk grid failure. The proposed Fortified-Grid security primitive provides an innovative solution, leveraging the TPM for attestation coupled with standard X.509 certificates. This methodology serves a dual purpose, ensuring the authenticity of IoT devices and upholding software integrity, an indispensable foundation for any resilient smart grid security system. TPM is a hardware security module that can generate keys and store them with encryption so they cannot be compromised. Formal security verification has been performed using the random or real Oracle (ROR) model and widely accepted AVISPA simulation tool, while informal security verification uses the DY and CK adversary model. Fortified-Grid helps to validate the attested state of IoT devices with a minimal network overhead of 1984 bits.
Efficacy of Insecticides against the Invasive Apricot Aphid, Myzus mumecola
Authors: Tabet Dania H. , Visentin Edoardo , Bonadio Martina , Bjeljac Marko , Reyes-Domínguez Yazmid , Gallmetzer Andreas , Spitaler Urban
Published: September 2023

The invasive apricot aphid (Myzus mumecola Matsumura) is an important pest of apricot trees (Prunus armeniaca L.). In the presented study, laboratory bioassays using treated leaf disks of apricot were conducted to test the efficacy of twelve insecticides according to the maximum field dose. Additionally, dose-response curves were established for selected insecticides, and the effects on colony development were evaluated. Furthermore, a field trial was conducted to investigate the effectiveness of commonly used insecticides in apricot cultivation. The dose-response curves showed LC50 values ranging from 0.08 mg/L for flupyradifurone, 0.15 mg/L for acetamiprid, 0.70 mg/L for etofenprox, 1.89 mg/L for sulfoxaflor, 2.64 mg/L for pirimicarb, 3.97 mg/L for deltamethrin, up to 6.79 mg/L for tau-fluvalinate. These aforementioned insecticides resulted in mortality rates ranging from 95 to 100% at the field dose. Azadirachtin, flonicamid, and pyrethrins showed mortality rates of 27 to 45%. Spirotetramat reduced the colony development and decreased the number of infested shoots by 86%. Spinosad, which is not recommended against aphids, showed minimal impact; reducing the number of exuviae in nymphs in the colony development bioassay. It can be concluded that the majority of the tested insecticides are effective against M. mumecola.
The Current State of Research on Sirtuin-Mediated Autophagy in Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Wang Yuqin , Li Yongnan , Ding Hong , Li Dan , Shen Wanxi , Zhang Xiaowei
Published: September 2023

Sirtuins belong to the class III histone deacetylases and possess nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide-dependent deacetylase activity. They are involved in the regulation of multiple signaling pathways implicated in cardiovascular diseases. Autophagy is a crucial adaptive cellular response to stress stimuli. Mounting evidence suggests a strong correlation between Sirtuins and autophagy, potentially involving cross-regulation and crosstalk. Sirtuin-mediated autophagy plays a crucial regulatory role in some cardiovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis, ischemia/reperfusion injury, hypertension, heart failure, diabetic cardiomyopathy, and drug-induced myocardial damage. In this context, we summarize the research advancements pertaining to various Sirtuins involved in autophagy and the molecular mechanisms regulating autophagy. We also elucidate the biological function of Sirtuins across diverse cardiovascular diseases and further discuss the development of novel drugs that regulate Sirtuin-mediated autophagy.
Clinical Outcomes and Quality of Life after Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) Closure in Patients with Stroke/Transient Ischemic Attack of Undetermined Cause and Other PFO-Associated Clinical Conditions: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Evola Salvatore , Camarda Emmanuele Antonio , Triolo Oreste Fabio , Adorno Daniele , D’Agostino Alessandro , Novo Giuseppina , Onorato Eustaquio Maria
Published: September 2023

Introduction: The aim of this study was to assess clinical outcomes and quality of life after PFO closure in patients with previous stroke/TIA of undetermined cause and in patients with other complex PFO-associated clinical conditions. Methods: Between July 2009 and December 2019 at our University Cardiology Department, 118 consecutive patients underwent a thorough diagnostic work-up including standardized history taking, clinical evaluation, full neurological examination, screening for thrombophilia, brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound–Doppler sonography of supra-aortic vessels and 24 h ECG Holter monitoring. Anatomo-morphological evaluation using 2D transthoracic/transesophageal echocardiography (TTE/TEE) color Doppler and functional assessment using contrast TTE (cTTE) in the apical four-chamber view and contrast transcranial Doppler (cTCD) using power M-mode modality were performed to verify the presence, location and amount of right-to-left shunting via PFO or other extracardiac source. Completed questionnaires based on the Quality-of-Life Short Form-36 (QoL SF-36) and Migraine Disability Assessment (MIDAS) were obtained from the patients before PFO closure and after 12 months. Contrast TTE/TEE and cTCD were performed at dismission, 1, 6 and 12 months and yearly thereafter. Brain MRI was performed at 1-year follow-up in 54 patients. Results: Transcatheter PFO closure was performed in 106 selected symptomatic patients (mean age 41.7 ± 10.7 years, range 16–63, 65% women) with the following conditions: ischemic stroke (n = 23), transient ischemic attack (n = 22), peripheral and coronary embolism (n = 2), MRI lesions without cerebrovascular clinical events (n = 53), platypnea–orthodeoxia (n = 1), decompression sickness (n = 1) and refractory migraine without ischemic cerebral lesions (n = 4). The implanted devices were Occlutech Figulla Flex I/II PFO (n = 99), Occlutech UNI (n = 3), Amplatzer PFO (n = 3) and CeraFlex PFO occluders (n = 1). Procedures were performed under local anesthesia and rotational intracardiac monitoring (Ultra ICE) alone. The devices were correctly implanted in all patients. The mean fluoroscopy time was 15 ± 5 min (range = 10–45 min) and the mean procedural time was 55 ± 20 min (range = 35–90 min). The total occlusion rate at follow-up (mean 50 months, range 3–100) was 98.1%. No recurrent neurological events were observed in the long-term follow-up. Conclusions: The data collected in this study demonstrate that percutaneous PFO closure is a safe and effective procedure, showing long-term prevention of recurrent cerebrovascular events, significant reduction in migraine symptoms and substantial improvement in quality of life.
Bio-Oil-Based Epoxy Resins from Thermochemical Processing of Sustainable Resources: A Short Review
Authors: Agbo Philip , Mali Abhijeet , Deng Dongyang , Zhang Lifeng
Published: September 2023

Epoxy is the most prevalent thermosetting resin in the field of polymer composite materials. There has been a growing interest in the development of bio-based epoxy resins as a sustainable alternative to conventional petrochemical epoxy resins. Advances in this field in recent years have included the use of various renewable resources, such as vegetable oils, lignin, and sugars, as direct precursors to produce bio-based epoxy resins. In the meantime, bio-oils have been produced via the decomposition of biomass through thermochemical conversion and mainly being used as renewable liquid fuels. It is noteworthy that bio-oils can be used as a sustainable resource to produce epoxy resins. This review addresses research progress in producing bio-oil-based epoxy resins from thermochemical processing techniques including organic solvent liquefaction, fast pyrolysis, and hydrothermal liquefaction. The production of bio-oil from thermochemical processing and its use to inject sustainability into epoxy resins are discussed. Herein, we intend to provide an overall picture of current attempts in the research area of bio-oil-based epoxy resins, reveal their potential for sustainable epoxy resins, and stimulate research interests in green/renewable materials.
The Effect of Secondary Education Teachers’ Metacognitive Knowledge and Professional Development on Their Tacit Knowledge Strategies
Authors: Sofologi Maria , Foutsitzi Evaggelia , Papantoniou Aphrodite , Kougioumtzis Georgios , Zaragas Harilaos , Tsolaki Magdalini , Moraitou Despina , Papantoniou Georgia
Published: September 2023

The present study investigated the pattern of relations among the tacit knowledge of high school teachers, their professional development, and their metacognitive knowledge concerning their teaching practices. Two hundred and seventy-nine secondary school teachers of both sexes, between the ages of 30 and 59 years, with teaching experience of between 1 and 19 years, participated in the study. Teachers’ tacit knowledge was evaluated through the hypothetical scenarios of the Tacit Knowledge Inventory for High School Teachers (TKI-HS), which has been developed for the estimation of teachers’ practical strategies. For the evaluation of teachers’ metacognitive knowledge and professional development, self-report questionnaires were administered to the participants. Path analysis indicated relationships between teachers’ metacognitive knowledge regarding difficulties in classroom management and in the use of modern methods and technologies on the one hand, and the use of certain tacit knowledge strategies on the other. In addition, teachers’ professional development, especially their ability to interact in socially heterogeneous groups, was also found to have an effect on their tacit knowledge strategies.
Measuring the Performance of Private Pension Companies in Türkiye by Gray Relational Analysis Method
Authors: Umut Muharrem
Published: September 2023

The private pension is a system designed to maintain an income level during passive periods by utilizing the income earned during active working years. It complements the mandatory retirement systems of the public sector and is based on a voluntary participation structure. Additionally, it serves as an investment and savings tool with the ability to provide long-term funds. The legislation for the private pension system was enacted in Türkiye in 2001, and it was implemented in 2003. In addition, a government contribution program was initiated to promote the system in 2013. An automatic enrollment system was introduced in 2017. The effectiveness and performance of individual pension companies play significant roles in the system. This study aims to measure the performance of individual pension companies operating in Türkiye using the gray relational analysis method, which is an effective measurement method, for the years 2016–2022. Subsequently, based on the measurement results, recommendations will be provided.
Investigation of Model Uncertainty in Rainfall-Induced Landslide Prediction under Changing Climate Conditions
Authors: Chen Yulin , Chen Enze , Zhang Jun , Zhu Jingxuan , Xiao Yuanyuan , Dai Qiang
Published: September 2023

Climate change can exacerbate the occurrence of extreme precipitation events, thereby affecting both the frequency and intensity of rainfall-induced landslides. It is important to study the threat of rainfall-induced landslides under future climate conditions for the formulation of disaster prevention and mitigation policies. Due to the complexity of the climate system, there is great uncertainty in the climate variables simulated by a global climate model (GCM), which will be further propagated in landslide prediction. In this study, we investigate the spatial and temporal trends of future landslide hazards in China under climate change, using data from a multi-model ensemble of GCMs based on two scenarios, RCP4.5 and RCP8.5. The uncertainty characteristics are then estimated based on signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs) and the ratio of agreement in sign (RAS). The results show that the uncertainty of landslide prediction is mainly dominated by the GCM ensemble and the RCP scenario settings. Spatially, the uncertainty of landslide prediction is high in the western areas of China and low in the eastern areas of China. Temporally, the uncertainty of landslide prediction is evolving, with characteristics of high uncertainty in the near future and characteristics of low uncertainty in the distant future. The annual average SNRs in the 21st century are 0.44 and 0.50 in RCP4.5 and RCP8.5, respectively, and the RAS of landslide prediction in Southeastern China is only 50–60%. This indicates that more than half of the patterns show trends that are opposite to those of the ensemble, suggesting that their landslide change trends are not universally recognized in the pattern ensemble. Considering the uncertainty of climate change in landslide prediction can enable studies to provide a more comprehensive picture of the possible range of future landslide changes, effectively improving the reliability of landslide hazard prediction and disaster prevention.
Should Desert and Desertification Regions Be Confused? New Insights Based on Vegetation Quality and Its Inter-Decadal Variations
Authors: Jiang Luguang , Liu Ye
Published: September 2023

As the most unique ecosystem on the Earth’s surface, desert and desertification region cannot be confused. The current research on spatial distinction of desert and desertification region is still lacking. Based on NDVI (normalized difference vegetation index) data from 1998 to 2020, we aimed to distinguish the differences between desert and desertification region. Improvement and degradation of vegetation quality in China have coexisted in the past 20 years. Within the low value classification in 1998, the regions where vegetation quality remained High increase were mainly concentrated in Loess Plateau. Within the medium value classification in 1998, the High increase classifications were mainly distributed in the west of the Taihang Mountains, north of the Qinling–Daba Mountains, east of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau, Yunnan–Guizhou Plateau, and the Northeast Plain. Within the high value classification in 1998, the High increase classification was distributed in the south of the Yangtze River. In 1998 and 2020, China had a total area of 2.50 million km2 of desert regions, accounting for 26% of China’s land area. After 20 years of large-scale ecological protection, desert regions have hardly undergone significant changes. Desertification regions decreased from 2.80 million km2 to 1.67 million km2, a decrease of 40.3%.
Histopathological and Behavioral Impairments in Zebrafish (Danio rerio) Chronically Exposed to a Cocktail of Fipronil and Pyriproxyfen
Authors: Robea Madalina Andreea , Petrovici Adriana , Ureche Dorel , Nicoara Mircea , Ciobica Alin Stelian
Published: September 2023

Background: Lately, the high incidence of pesticide usage has attracted everyone’s interest due to the serious effects produced. Fipronil (FIP) is a phenylpyrazole compound that acts on the insect’s GABA neurotransmitter by inhibiting its activity. Moreover, the literature reports highlight its implication in neurodevelopmental abnormalities and oxidative stress production in different organisms. Similarly, pyriproxyfen (PYR) is known to affect insect activity by mimicking the natural hormones involved in the maturation of the young insects. The aim of the present study was to investigate the impact of the mixture of these pesticides on the tissues and behavior of zebrafish. Methods: To assess the influence of this cocktail on zebrafish, three groups of animals were randomly selected and exposed to 0, 0.05, and 0.1 mg L−1 FIP and PYR mixture for five days. The fish were evaluated daily by the T-maze tests for locomotor activity and the light–dark test and recordings lasted four min. The data were quantified using the EthoVision software. Results: Our results indicated significant changes in locomotor activity parameters that showed increased levels following exposure to the mixture of FIP and PYR. On the other hand, the mixture also triggered anxiety in the zebrafish, which spent more time in the light area than in the dark area. In addition, mixture-induced histological changes were observed in the form of numerous hemosiderin deposits found in various zebrafish tissues. Conclusions: The current findings indicate that the mixture of FIP and PYR can have considerable consequences on adult zebrafish and may promote or cause functional neurological changes in addition to histological ones.
Influence of Anthropogenic Activities on the Water Quality of an Urban River in an Unplanned Zone of the Amazonian Coast
Authors: Pereira Luci Cajueiro Carneiro , Sousa Natália do Socorro da Silva , Silva Brenda Ribeiro Padilha da , Costa Ana Lucia Biondo da , Cavalcante Francielle Raquel Baltazar , Rodrigues Laiane Maria dos Santos , Costa Rauquírio Marinho da
Published: September 2023

The database on water quality in Amazonian rivers located in unplanned urbanized regions along the Brazilian Amazon Coast is still quite limited. This study addresses these concerns, and the tested hypothesis was that the water quality of the Cereja River has deteriorated in recent years, despite the efforts of government authorities to mitigate anthropogenic impacts. To assess changes in water quality, seven campaigns were conducted, collecting data at six fixed points during two different periods. High-resolution satellite images were used to document unplanned occupation. Unfortunately, the number of houses along the Cereja River has increased, in violation of the law. This has contributed to the river’s intense trophic condition, lower dissolved oxygen concentrations, higher concentrations of pathogenic bacteria, and loss of vegetation cover. According to national water quality standards, the Cereja is unsuitable for any human use. This is in stark contrast to the scenario a few decades ago when the river was used for leisure, fishing, and other activities. The results obtained confirm the initial hypothesis and can support potential management strategies and decision-making by authorities. The observed scenario can be extrapolated to other rivers located in urban areas in the Amazon region that have similarly regrettably experienced relatively uncontrolled growth.
Mono- and Dinuclear Carbonyl Dithiolene Complexes Related to the [FeFe]-Hydrogenases
Authors: Kdider Mohamed , Elleouet Catherine , Pétillon François Y. , Schollhammer Philippe
Published: September 2023

The di-iron carbonyl dithiolene bridged complex [Fe2(CO)6(µ-S2C2(CO2Me)2)] (1) reacts with 1 equivalent of phosphane PR3 (R = Ph, OMe) to give, as major products, monosubstituted derivatives [Fe2(CO)5L(µ-S2C2(CO2Me)2)] (L = PPh3 (2), P(OMe)3 (3)). In the presence of an excess (3–4 equiv.) of P(OMe)3, the cleavage of 1 arises partly and a mixture of the mononuclear species [Fe(CO)(P(OMe)3)2(κ2-S2C2(CO2Me)2)] (4) and 3 is obtained. The compounds 2–4 were analyzed by IR and 1H, 31P-{1H} NMR spectroscopies. Their structures in solid state were determined by X-ray diffraction analyses, which accord with their spectroscopic characteristics.
The Synthesis, Structure, and Luminescent Properties of TmMgB5O10 Crystals
Authors: Volkova Elena A. , Maltsev Victor V. , Antipin Alexander M. , Deyneko Dina V. , Nikiforov Ivan V. , Spassky Dmitry A. , Marchenko Ekaterina I. , Mitina Diana D. , Kosorukov Vladimir L. , Yapaskurt Vasiliy O. , Naprasnikov Daniil A. , Koporulina Elizaveta V.
Published: September 2023

TmMgB5O10 spontaneous crystals were synthesized via the flux-growth technique from a K2Mo3O10-based solvent. The crystal structure of the compound was solved and refined within the space group P21/n. The first principles calculations of the electronic structure reveal that TmMg-pentaborate with an ideal not defected crystal structure is an insulator with an indirect energy band gap of approximately 6.37 eV. Differential scanning calorimetry measurements and powder X-ray diffraction studies of heat-treated solids show that TmMgB5O10 is an incongruent melting compound. A characteristic band of the Tm3+ cation corresponding to the 3H6 → 1D2 transition is observed in the photoluminescence excitation spectra of TmMg-borate. The as-obtained crystals exhibit intense blue emission with the emission peaks centered at 455, 479, 667, and 753 nm. The most intensive band corresponds to the 1D2 → 3F4 transition. TmMgB5O10 solids demonstrate the thermal stability of photoluminescence.
Sustainable Materials for Engineering Applications
Authors: Aabid Abdul , Baig Muneer
Published: September 2023

This newly added Special Issue (SI) of the Materials journal, titled “Sustainable Materials for Engineering Applications”, focuses on the foundations, characterizations, and applications of several sustainable materials [...]
Homogeneity- and Stoichiometry-Induced Electrical and Optical Properties of Cu-Se Thin Films by RF Sputtering Power
Authors: Kim Sara , Lee Yong-Seok , Kim Nam-Hoon
Published: September 2023

P-type Cu-Se thin films were deposited on glass substrates at room temperature using radio frequency magnetron sputtering by a single multi-component CuSe2 target. When using a multi-component target, the impact of the sputtering power on the homogeneity and stoichiometry within the thin films should be investigated in the depth direction to demonstrate a secondary effect on the electrical and optical properties of the thin films. Systematic characterization of the Cu-Se thin films, including the morphology, microstructure, chemical composition, and depth-directional chemical bonding state and defect structure of the thin films, revealed that the sputtering power played an important role in the homogeneity and stoichiometry of the thin films. At very low and very high sputtering power levels, the Cu-Se thin films exhibited more deviations from stoichiometry, while an optimized sputtering power resulted in more homogenous thin films with improved stoichiometry across the entire thin film thickness in the X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy depth profile, despite showing Se deficiency at all depths. A rapid decrease in carrier concentration, indicating a reduction in the net effect of total defects, was obtained at the optimized sputtering power with less deviation from stoichiometry in the Cu-Se thin films and the closest stoichiometric ratio at an intermediate depth.
Compressive Behaviors of Thin-Walled Steel Tube Stub Columns Filled with Self-Compacting Concrete Containing Recycled Aggregate
Authors: Wang Yunyang , Sun Shengwei , Zhang Liqing , Jia Yandong
Published: September 2023

Natural resources have been excessively consumed, and large amounts of construction wastes have been generated, owing to the fast development of civil industry, causing crucial environmental issues. Therefore, reusable construction waste fabricated into recycled concrete offers a good strategy to solve this issue. Thus, this article first develops thin-walled steel tubes stub columns filled with self-compacting concrete containing recycled coarse aggregate. Afterwards, the compressive behaviors of the columns when undergoing axial compression loading to failure are explored. Subsequently, the effect of types of self-compacting concrete and wall thickness on failure modes and the relationships between load and displacement/strain is discussed comprehensively. Moreover, models of load–displacement/strain behaviors are proposed. The results show that columns with identical wall thicknesses containing both natural and recycled coarse aggregate display similar failure modes, mainly presenting as local buckling and rupture. The shape of the load–displacement/strain curves for identical wall thicknesses are almost the same. Nevertheless, the maximum load and stiffness of columns containing recycled coarse aggregate are lower than those of columns containing natural coarse aggregate. Additionally, the maximum loads corresponding to wall thickness of 1.2 mm and 3.0 mm are decreased by 18.4% and 5.8%, respectively. Moreover, the proposed models can reasonably evaluate the relationships between load and displacement/strain. This paper demonstrates that thin-walled steel tubular columns containing recycled coarse aggregate present positive compressive behaviors and thus exhibit great potential for developing environmentally friendly and sustainable civil infrastructures.
Prediction of Dynamic Behavior of Large-Scale Ground Using 1 g Shaking Table Test and Numerical Analysis
Authors: Jin Yong , Jeong Sugeun , Kim Daehyeon
Published: September 2023

Earthquake disasters can threaten human life and cause property damage. The dynamic analysis of the ground performance of the seismic field is essential. In this study, numerical analysis is used to predict the dynamic behavior and response analysis of large-scale models under different seismic waves. Firstly, the accuracy of numerical analysis is verified by a 1 g shaking table test under the same size. Then, according to the similarity law, numerical analysis is used to obtain the dynamic behavior of the model at different scales. The results show that the 1 g shaking table test results are in good agreement with the numerical analysis results and that the numerical analysis can predict the dynamic behavior of the scale model. The 1 g shaking table test provides a valuable method for evaluating the numerical analysis, which captures the complex behavior and resolves uncertainties, ultimately leading to more robust and reliable analyses.
Decarbonatization of Energy Sector by CO2 Sequestration in Waste Incineration Fly Ash and Its Utilization as Raw Material for Alkali Activation
Authors: Mokrzycki Jakub , Baran Paweł , Gazda-Grzywacz Magdalena , Bator Jakub , Wróbel Wojciech , Zarębska Katarzyna
Published: September 2023

In this study, municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) fly ash was subjected to mineral carbonation with the aim of investigating CO2 sequestration in waste material. The conducted study follows the trend of searching for alternatives to natural mineral materials with the ability to sequestrate CO2. The mineral carbonation of MSWI fly ash allowed for the storage of up to 0.25 mmol CO2 g−1. Next, both carbonated and uncarbonated MSWI fly ashes were activated using an alkaline activation method by means of two different activation agents, namely potassium hydroxide and potassium silicate or sodium hydroxide and sodium silicate. Mineral carbonation caused a drop in the compressive strength of alkali-activated materials, probably due to the formation of sodium and/or potassium carbonates. The maximum compressive strength obtained was 3.93 MPa after 28 days for uncarbonated fly ash activated using 8 mol dm−3 KOH and potassium hydroxide (ratio 3:1). The relative ratio of hydroxide:silicate also influenced the mechanical properties of the materials. Both carbonated and uncarbonated fly ashes, as well as their alkali-activated derivatives, were characterized in detail by means of XRD, XRF, and FTIR. Both uncarbonated and carbonated fly ashes were subjected to TG analysis. The obtained results have proved the importance of further research in terms of high-calcium fly ash (HCFA) utilization.
Critical Evaluation of the Methods for the Characterization of the Degree of Sulfonation for Electron Beam Irradiated and Non-Irradiated Sulfonated Poly(ether ether ketone) Membranes
Authors: Pakalniete Laura Dace , Maskova Elizabete , Zabolockis Rudolfs Janis , Avotina Liga , Sprugis Einars , Reinholds Ingars , Rzepna Magdalena , Vaivars Guntars , Pajuste Elina
Published: September 2023

Sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone) (SPEEK) materials are promising candidates for replacing Nafion™ in applications such as proton exchange membrane (PEM) and direct methanol fuel cells. SPEEK membranes have several advantages such as low cost, thermal and radiation stability and controllable physicochemical and mechanical properties, which depend on the degree of sulfonation (DS). Commercial PEEK was homogenously sulfonated up to a DS of 60–90% and the membranes were prepared using a solvent casting method. Part of the samples were irradiated with a 10 MeV electron beam up to a 500 kGy dose to assess the ionizing radiation-induced effects. Both non-irradiated and irradiated membranes were characterized by Fourier Transformation infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR) spectroscopy, electrochemical impedance analysis and, for the first time for non-irradiated membranes, by spectrophotometric analysis with Cr(III). The above-mentioned methods for application for DS assessment were compared. The aim of this study is to compare different methods used for the determination of the DS of SPEEK membranes before and after high-dose irradiation. It was observed that irradiated membranes presented a higher value of DS. The appearance of different new signals in 1H-NMR and FT-IR spectra of irradiated membranes indicated that the effects of radiation induced changes in the structure of SPEEK materials. The good correlation of Cr(III) absorption and SPEEK DS up to 80% indicates that the spectrophotometric method is a comparable tool for the characterization of SPEEK membranes.
Endovascular Treatment of Visceral Artery Pseudoaneurysms with Ethylene-Vinyl Alcohol (EVOH) Copolymer-Based Non-Adhesive Liquid Embolic Agents (NALEAs)
Authors: Minici Roberto , Guerriero Pasquale , Fontana Federico , Venturini Massimo , Guzzardi Giuseppe , Piacentino Filippo , Coppola Andrea , Spinetta Marco , Siciliano Agostino , Serra Raffaele , Costa Davide , Ielapi Nicola , Santoro Rita ,   on behalf of the MGJR Research Team, Brunese Luca , Laganà Domenico
Published: September 2023

Background and Objectives: Treatment of visceral artery pseudoaneurysms (VAPs) is always indicated regardless of their diameters, as their risk of rupture is significantly higher than that of visceral artery aneurysms. The invasiveness of surgery and its associated complications have led to a shift in favor of radiological interventions as the initial treatment of choice. However, there are still some unanswered questions on endovascular treatment of VAPs regarding the optimal endovascular technique and the efficacy and safety outcomes. The purpose of this multicenter study was to retrospectively evaluate the effectiveness and safety of endovascular treatment of visceral pseudoaneurysms using Ethylene-Vinyl Alcohol (EVOH) Copolymer-Based Non-Adhesive Liquid Embolic Agents (NALEAs). Materials and Methods: Consecutive patients who underwent endovascular embolization with EVOH-based NALEAs for visceral artery pseudoaneurysms between January 2018 and June 2023 were retrospectively evaluated. Results: 38 embolizations were performed. Technical success was achieved in all patients. The clinical success rate was high (92.1% overall), with no significant differences between ruptured and unruptured VAPs (p = 0.679). Seven patients (18.4%) experienced procedure-related complications, related to one case of non-target embolization, four splenic abscesses due to end-organ infarction, and two femoral pseudoaneurysms. The rates of procedure-related complications, end-organ infarction, and vascular access-site complications did not significantly differ between ruptured and unruptured VAPs (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Both ruptured and unruptured visceral pseudoaneurysms can be effectively and safely treated with NALEA-based endovascular embolization. We suggest considering the use of NALEAs, particularly in specific clinical cases that highlight their advantages, including patients with coagulopathy, fragile vessels, and embolization targets that are located at a considerable distance from the microcatheter tip and are otherwise difficult to reach.
Resection of Intramedullary Hemangioblastoma: Timing of Surgery and Its Impact on Neurological Outcome and Quality of Life
Authors: Schwake Michael , Ricchizzi Sarah , Krahwinkel Sophia , Maragno Emanuele , Schipmann Stephanie , Stummer Walter , Gallus Marco , Holling Markus
Published: September 2023

Background and Objectives: Spinal intramedullary hemangioblastomas (SIMH) are benign vascular lesions that are pathological hallmarks of von Hippel-Lindau disease (vHL) and constitute the third most common intramedullary neoplasm in adults. So far, maximal and safe resection is the first choice of treatment. However, as SIMH show no malignant transformation, it remains unclear whether surgical resection is beneficial for all patients. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the surgical outcomes of 27 patients who were treated between 2014 and 2022 at our neurosurgical department and investigated potential risk factors that influence the surgical outcome. Pre- and postoperative neurological status were classified according to the McCormick scale. Furthermore, surgical quality indicators, such as length of hospital stay (LOS; days), 90-day readmissions, nosocomial infections, and potential risk factors that might influence the surgical outcome, such as tumor size and surgical approach, have been analyzed. In addition to that, patients were asked to fill out the EQ-5D-3L questionnaire to assess their quality of life after surgery. Results: Surgery on SIMH patients that display no or minor neurological deficits (McCormick scale I or II) is associated with a favorable postoperative outcome and overall higher quality of life compared to those patients that already suffer from severe neurological deficits (McCormick scale III or IV). Conclusion: Early surgical intervention prior to the development of severe neurological deficits may offer a better neurological outcome and quality of life.
Microstructure and Anisotropy of Mechanical Properties of Al-3Li-1Cu-0.4Mg-0.1Er-0.1Zr Alloys Prepared by Normal Rolling and Cross-Rolling
Authors: Ma Zhikun , Zhong Tao , Sun Dongpeng , Qian Bingyu , Turakhodjaev Nodir , Betsofen Sergey , Wu Ruizhi
Published: September 2023

The influence of normal rolling and cross-rolling on the microstructure, mechanical properties, and anisotropy of Al-3Li-1Cu-0.4Mg-0.1Er-0.1Zr alloy was investigated. With an increase in the rolling reduction amount, both the strength and plasticity of the alloy are enhanced. Among them, the alloy in the normal rolling state with a deformation amount of 90% exhibits the best properties, with a tensile strength of 362 MPa and an elongation of 19.1% along the rolling direction. During the rolling process, the intergranular Cu-containing phase in the alloy is continuously broken and dissolved, leading to a decrease in both size and quantity, turning from continuous distribution along grain boundaries to a granular distribution. Moreover, a large quantity of the Al3Li phase and Al3(Er, Zr, Li) core–shell composite phase are precipitated in the alloy. Recrystallization occurs mainly through the particle stimulated nucleation (PSN) mechanism. Cross-rolling eliminates the brass-type texture <111> produced by normal rolling and enhances the brass R-type texture {111}<112>. The index of plane anisotropy (IPA) of the strength decreases from 10.1% for normal rolling to 5.5% for cross-rolling, and the IPA of elongation decreases from 12.8% to 3.3%. Cross-rolling provides an effective method to reduce the anisotropy of Al-Li alloys.
Study on the Deformation and Fracture Mechanisms of Plastic Metals Considering Void Damage
Authors: Zeng Jiaxing , Liu Jianxiong , Jia Youdong , Zhao Guolin
Published: September 2023

Fracture initiation in plastic metals is attributed to the development of voids. Analyzing the nucleation and growth processes of voids facilitates the study of plastic deformation and fracture mechanisms in metal materials. Uniaxial tensile tests were conducted on two high-quality carbon structural steels, and the microfracture surface morphology of the tensile specimens was observed by using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). From the perspective of vacancy condensation, the nucleation mechanism of voids in the absence of inclusions or particles was analyzed. Based on the continuum damage mechanics theory and the Rice–Tracy (R-T) model, a damage parameter considering the void volume fraction was derived, and a plastic potential function, hardening curve, and constitutive model for the plastic deformation process of the plastic metal material were established. Based on the uniaxial tensile test data of the two sheets of high-quality carbon steel, the strain range data in the hardening stage were converted into true stress–plastic strain data, and the established hardening curve was used to fit the true stress–plastic strain data. The results showed good agreement between the established hardening curve and the experimental results, which effectively reflected the deformation process of ductile fractures in plastic metal materials.