bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Review on Source Profiles of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in Typical Industries in China
Authors: Wang Shuangshuang , Zhang Jie , Zhang Yan , Wang Liwei , Sun Zhongxue , Wang Hailing
Published: May 2023

The source profile of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is essential for establishing reactivity- and toxicity-based emission inventories and developing effective air pollution control strategies. In this paper, the establishment of VOC source profiles and the VOC emission characteristics are reviewed in the petrochemical, solvent use, and chemical industries, and the most up-to-date profiles of the three industries in China are compiled via necessary adjustment and reconstruction of the test data from the literature. Alkanes dominated and OVOCs were often neglected in the overall petrochemical industry and refined processes. They accounted for 60.6% and 3.2% in the merged profiles. Aromatics and OVOCs dominated in the industrial solvent use industry. OVOCs were the most prevalent in the printing and dyeing industries, furniture manufacturing industries, and automobile coating process, whereas aromatics were major contributors of the total VOCs in metal surface coating, shipping coating, and other surface coating industries in the merged profiles. A wide range of products and limited profile studies were obtained in chemical industry, and the compositions of VOCs varied significantly in the production of 30 products in the merged profile. The future research directions of VOC source profiles are discussed, mainly focusing on the sampling, establishment, and evaluation of VOC profiles.
Potential Vorticity Generation in Breaking Gravity Waves
Authors: Waite Michael L. , Richardson Nicholas
Published: May 2023

Potential vorticity (PV) is an important quantity in stratified flows because it is conserved following the flow in the absence of forcing and viscous and diffusive effects. However, as shown by previous work for unstratified turbulence, viscosity and diffusion, when present, are not purely dissipative and can create potential vorticity even when none is present initially. In this work, we use direct numerical simulations to investigate the viscous and diffusive generation of potential vorticity and potential enstrophy (integrated square PV) in stratified turbulence. Simulations are initialized with a two-dimensional standing internal gravity wave, which has no potential vorticity apart from some low-level random noise; as a result, all potential vorticity and enstrophy comes from viscous and diffusive effects. Significant potential enstrophy is found when the standing wave breaks, and the maximum potential enstrophy increases with increasing Reynolds number. The mechanism for the initial PV generation is spanwise diffusion of buoyancy perturbations, which grow as the standing wave three-dimensionalizes, into the direction of spanwise vorticity. The viscous and diffusive terms responsible are small-scale and are sensitive to under-resolution, so high resolution is required to obtain robust results.
Two Case Studies of the Northwestern Argentinean Low: With and without a Coupled Transient Trough
Authors: Arraut Josefina M. , Rocha Maurício R. , Souza Enio P. , Nanini Júlia Amanda
Published: May 2023

The Northwestern Argentinean Low (NAL) intensifies the zonal component of the geopotential gradient to its east, intensifying the meridional wind and moisture flow from the tropics to the subtropics contibuting importantly to the South American Low-Level Jet and the Chaco Jet. This study compares two situations where the NAL is present in the continent’s subtropics: one where it is coupled with an extratropical transient trough to its south and another without this coupling. The coupled case, called the front case, is stronger in two ways: it is warmer and shows lower geopotential at the center of the NAL. It also shows much stronger moisture transport. Both cases show a similar trait in that moisture transport and the zonal component of the geopotential gradient east of the NAL peak in the coolest hours. The geopotential at the center of the no-front case remains roughly constant throughout the event. For the front case, it attains its minimum value in the six hours preceding the northeastward advance of the transient trough. These results suggest that there are different mechanisms acting at the center of the NAL and at its eastern branch, as well as in the front and no-front cases.
Monitoring the Weibull Scale Parameter Based on Type I Censored Data Using a Modified EWMA Control Chart
Authors: Yu Dan , Jin Li , Li Jin , Qin Xixi , Zhu Zhichuan , Zhang Jiujun
Published: May 2023

In industrial production, the exponentially weighted moving average scheme is widely used to monitor shifts in product quality, especially small-to-moderate shifts. In this paper, we propose a modified one-sided EWMA scheme for Type I right-censored Weibull lifetime data for detecting shifts in the scale parameter with the shape parameter fixed. A comparative analysis with existing cumulative sum and exponentially weighted moving average results from the literature is provided. The zero-state and steady-state behaviour of the new scheme are considered with regard to the average run length, the standard deviation of the run length, and other performance measures. Our simulation shows stronger power in detecting changes in the censored lifetime data using the modified scheme than that using the traditional exponentially weighted moving average scheme, and the new scheme is superior to the cumulative sum scheme in most situations. A real-data example further demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Quaternionic Fuzzy Sets
Authors: Dai Songsong
Published: May 2023

A novel concept of quaternionic fuzzy sets (QFSs) is presented in this paper. QFSs are a generalization of traditional fuzzy sets and complex fuzzy sets based on quaternions. The novelty of QFSs is that the range of the membership function is the set of quaternions with modulus less than or equal to one, of which the real and quaternionic imaginary parts can be used for four different features. A discussion is made on the intuitive interpretation of quaternion-valued membership grades and the possible applications of QFSs. Several operations, including quaternionic fuzzy complement, union, intersection, and aggregation of QFSs, are presented. Quaternionic fuzzy relations and their composition are also investigated. QFS is designed to maintain the advantages of traditional FS and CFS, while benefiting from the properties of quaternions. Cuts of QFSs and rotational invariance of quaternionic fuzzy operations demonstrate the particularity of quaternion-valued grades of membership.
Calorimetric Studies on Chemically Delithiated LiNi0.4Mn0.4Co0.2O2: Investigation of Phase Transition, Gas Evolution and Enthalpy of Formation
Authors: Zhao Wenjiao , Gebauer Julian , Bergfeldt Thomas , Rohde Magnus , Ziebert Carlos , Du Yong , Seifert Hans J.
Published: May 2023

Li1.11(Ni0.4Mn0.4Co0.2)O2 powders were chemically delithiated by (NH4)2S2O8 oxidizer to obtain Lix(Ni0.4Mn0.4Co0.2)O2 powders. The thermal behavior of two delithiated specimens, Li0.76Ni0.41Mn0.42Co0.17O2.10 and Li0.48Ni0.38Mn0.46Co0.16O2.07, was studied compared to the pristine specimen. Phase transitions at elevated temperatures were investigated by simultaneous thermal analysis (STA) and the gas evolution accompanying the phase transitions was analyzed by mass spectroscopy and an oxygen detector. The enthalpy of two delithiated samples and a pristine specimen were measured by a high temperature drop solution calorimeter. Based on these results, the enthalpies of formation were calculated.
Unsupervised Deep Learning for Structural Health Monitoring
Authors: Boccagna Roberto , Bottini Maurizio , Petracca Massimo , Amelio Alessia , Camata Guido
Published: May 2023

In the last few decades, structural health monitoring has gained relevance in the context of civil engineering, and much effort has been made to automate the process of data acquisition and analysis through the use of data-driven methods. Currently, the main issues arising in automated monitoring processing regard the establishment of a robust approach that covers all intermediate steps from data acquisition to output production and interpretation. To overcome this limitation, we introduce a dedicated artificial-intelligence-based monitoring approach for the assessment of the health conditions of structures in near-real time. The proposed approach is based on the construction of an unsupervised deep learning algorithm, with the aim of establishing a reliable method of anomaly detection for data acquired from sensors positioned on buildings. After preprocessing, the data are fed into various types of artificial neural network autoencoders, which are trained to produce outputs as close as possible to the inputs. We tested the proposed approach on data generated from an OpenSees numerical model of a railway bridge and data acquired from physical sensors positioned on the Historical Tower of Ravenna (Italy). The results show that the approach actually flags the data produced when damage scenarios are activated in the OpenSees model as coming from a damaged structure. The proposed method is also able to reliably detect anomalous structural behaviors of the tower, preventing critical scenarios. Compared to other state-of-the-art methods for anomaly detection, the proposed approach shows very promising results.
Utilization of Engineering Advances for Detailed Biomechanical Characterization of the Mitral–Ventricular Relationship to Optimize Repair Strategies: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: van Kampen Antonia , Morningstar Jordan E. , Goudot Guillaume , Ingels Neil , Wenk Jonathan F. , Nagata Yasufumi , Yaghoubian Koushiar M. , Norris Russell A. , Borger Michael A. , Melnitchouk Serguei , Levine Robert A. , Jensen Morten O.
Published: May 2023

The geometrical details and biomechanical relationships of the mitral valve–left ventricular apparatus are very complex and have posed as an area of research interest for decades. These characteristics play a major role in identifying and perfecting the optimal approaches to treat diseases of this system when the restoration of biomechanical and mechano-biological conditions becomes the main target. Over the years, engineering approaches have helped to revolutionize the field in this regard. Furthermore, advanced modelling modalities have contributed greatly to the development of novel devices and less invasive strategies. This article provides an overview and narrative of the evolution of mitral valve therapy with special focus on two diseases frequently encountered by cardiac surgeons and interventional cardiologists: ischemic and degenerative mitral regurgitation.
FOXM1: Functional Roles of FOXM1 in Non-Malignant Diseases
Authors: Zhang Zhenwang , Li Mengxi , Sun Tian , Zhang Zhengrong , Liu Chao
Published: May 2023

Forkhead box (FOX) proteins are a wing-like helix family of transcription factors in the DNA-binding region. By mediating the activation and inhibition of transcription and interactions with all kinds of transcriptional co-regulators (MuvB complexes, STAT3, β-catenin, etc.), they play significant roles in carbohydrate and fat metabolism, biological aging and immune regulation, development, and diseases in mammals. Recent studies have focused on translating these essential findings into clinical applications in order to improve quality of life, investigating areas such as diabetes, inflammation, and pulmonary fibrosis, and increase human lifespan. Early studies have shown that forkhead box M1 (FOXM1) functions as a key gene in pathological processes in multiple diseases by regulating genes related to proliferation, the cell cycle, migration, and apoptosis and genes related to diagnosis, therapy, and injury repair. Although FOXM1 has long been studied in relation to human diseases, its role needs to be elaborated on. FOXM1 expression is involved in the development or repair of multiple diseases, including pulmonary fibrosis, pneumonia, diabetes, liver injury repair, adrenal lesions, vascular diseases, brain diseases, arthritis, myasthenia gravis, and psoriasis. The complex mechanisms involve multiple signaling pathways, such as WNT/β-catenin, STAT3/FOXM1/GLUT1, c-Myc/FOXM1, FOXM1/SIRT4/NF-κB, and FOXM1/SEMA3C/NRP2/Hedgehog. This paper reviews the key roles and functions of FOXM1 in kidney, vascular, lung, brain, bone, heart, skin, and blood vessel diseases to elucidate the role of FOXM1 in the development and progression of human non-malignant diseases and makes suggestions for further research.
Restricted Feeding Resets the Peripheral Clocks of the Digestive System
Authors: Nakazawa Kazuo , Matsuo Minako , Kimura Naobumi , Numano Rika
Published: May 2023

All organisms maintain an internal clock that matches the Earth’s rotation over a period of 24 h, known as the circadian rhythm. Previously, we established Period1 luciferase (Per1::luc) transgenic (Tg) mice in order to monitor the expression rhythms of the Per1 clock gene in each tissue in real time using a bioluminescent reporter. The Per1 gene is a known key molecular regulator of the mammalian clock system in the autonomous central clock in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), and the peripheral tissues. Per1::luc Tg mice were used as a biosensing system of circadian rhythms. They were maintained by being fed ad lib (FF) and subsequently subjected to 4 hour (4 h) restricted feeding (RF) during the rest period under light conditions in order to examine whether the peripheral clocks of different parts in the digestive tract could be entrained. The peak points of the bioluminescent rhythms in the Per1::luc Tg mouse tissue samples were analyzed via cosine fitting. The bioluminescent rhythms of the cultured peripheral tissues of the esophagus and the jejunum exhibited phase shift from 5 to 11 h during RF, whereas those of the SCN tissue remained unchanged for 7 days during RF. We examined whether RF for 4 h during the rest period in light conditions could reset the activity rhythms, the central clock in the SCN, and the peripheral clock in the different points in the gastrointestinal tract. The fasting signals during RF did not entrain the SCN, but they did entrain each peripheral clock of the digestive system, the esophagus, and the jejunum. During RF for 7 days, the peak time of the esophagus tended to return to that of the FF control, unlike that of the jejunum; hence, the esophagus was regulated more strongly under the control of the cultured SCN compared to the jejunum. Thus, the peripheral clocks of the digestive system can entrain their molecular clock rhythms via RF-induced fasting signals in each degree, independently from the SCN.
Dopamine Receptor Ligand Selectivity—An In Silico/In Vitro Insight
Authors: Zell Lukas , Bretl Alina , Temml Veronika , Schuster Daniela
Published: May 2023

Different dopamine receptor (DR) subtypes are involved in pathophysiological conditions such as Parkinson’s Disease (PD), schizophrenia and depression. While many DR-targeting drugs have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), only a very small number are truly selective for one of the DR subtypes. Additionally, most of them show promiscuous activity at related G-protein coupled receptors, thus suffering from diverse side-effect profiles. Multiple studies have shown that combined in silico/in vitro approaches are a valuable contribution to drug discovery processes. They can also be applied to divulge the mechanisms behind ligand selectivity. In this study, novel DR ligands were investigated in vitro to assess binding affinities at different DR subtypes. Thus, nine D2R/D3R-selective ligands (micro- to nanomolar binding affinities, D3R-selective profile) were successfully identified. The most promising ligand exerted nanomolar D3R activity (Ki = 2.3 nM) with 263.7-fold D2R/D3R selectivity. Subsequently, ligand selectivity was rationalized in silico based on ligand interaction with a secondary binding pocket, supporting the selectivity data determined in vitro. The developed workflow and identified ligands could aid in the further understanding of the structural motifs responsible for DR subtype selectivity, thus benefitting drug development in D2R/D3R-associated pathologies such as PD.
Investigation of Fluidic Universal Gripper for Delicate Object Manipulation
Authors: Wu Changchun , Liu Hao , Lin Senyuan , Li Yunquan , Chen Yonghua
Published: May 2023

The compliance of conventional granular jamming universal grippers is limited due to the increasing friction among particles when enveloping an object. This property limits the applications of such grippers. In this paper, we propose a fluidic-based approach for universal gripper which has a much higher compliance compared to conventional granular jamming universal grippers. The fluid is made of micro-particles suspended in liquid. Jamming transition of the dense granular suspension fluid from a fluid (hydrodynamic interactions) to solid-like state (frictional contacts) in the gripper is achieved by external pressure from the inflation of an airbag. The basic jamming mechanism and theoretical analysis of the proposed fluid is investigated, and a prototype universal gripper based on the fluid is developed. The proposed universal gripper exhibits advantageous compliance and grasping robustness in sample grasping of delicate objects, such as plants and sponge objects, where the traditional granular jamming universal gripper fails.
Phenotypic and Biomechanical Characteristics of Human Fetal Neural Progenitor Cells Exposed to Pesticide Compounds
Authors: Sarsfield Marissa C. , Vasu Jennifer , Abuoun Sabreen M. , Allena Nischal , Kothapalli Chandrasekhar R.
Published: May 2023

Various forms of pesticides have been reported to be among the environmental toxicants, which are detrimental to human health. The active ingredients of these formulations can enter the human body through air, food, or water. Epidemiological studies suggest that these compounds strongly affect the developing brain in fetal and infant stages due to their ability to breach the underdeveloped blood–brain barrier. Since neural progenitor stem cells (NPCs) in the developing brain are the most vulnerable to these compounds, the mechanisms by which NPCs experience toxicity upon exposure to these chemicals must be investigated. Here, we assessed the viability of human fetal NPCs in 2D cultures in the presence of the active ingredients of six widely used pesticides using Live/Dead® and Hoechst staining. The IC50 values ranged from 4.1–201 μM. A significant drop in cell viability with increasing toxicant concentration (p < 0.01) was noted, with the order of toxicity being malathion < 4-aminopyridine < methoprene < prallethrin < temephos < pyriproxyfen. Changes in cellular biomechanical characteristics (Young’s modulus, tether force, membrane tension, and tether radius) were quantified using atomic force microscopy, whereas cell migration was elucidated over 48 h using a customized wound-healing assay. The Young’s modulus of fetal NPCs exposed to IC50/2 doses of these compounds was reduced by 38–70% and that of those exposed to IC50 doses was reduced by 71–80% (p < 0.001 vs. controls for both; p < 0.01 for IC50 vs. IC50/2 for each compound). Similar patterns were noted for tether forces and membrane tension in fetal NPCs. NPC migration was found to be compound type- and dose-dependent. These results attest to the significant detrimental effects of these compounds on various aspects of the human fetal NPC phenotype, and the utility of cell mechanics as a marker to assess developmental neurotoxicity.
Molecular Fingerprint Detection Using Raman and Infrared Spectroscopy Technologies for Cancer Detection: A Progress Review
Authors: Zhang Shuyan , Qi Yi , Tan Sonia Peng Hwee , Bi Renzhe , Olivo Malini
Published: May 2023

Molecular vibrations play a crucial role in physical chemistry and biochemistry, and Raman and infrared spectroscopy are the two most used techniques for vibrational spectroscopy. These techniques provide unique fingerprints of the molecules in a sample, which can be used to identify the chemical bonds, functional groups, and structures of the molecules. In this review article, recent research and development activities for molecular fingerprint detection using Raman and infrared spectroscopy are discussed, with a focus on identifying specific biomolecules and studying the chemical composition of biological samples for cancer diagnosis applications. The working principle and instrumentation of each technique are also discussed for a better understanding of the analytical versatility of vibrational spectroscopy. Raman spectroscopy is an invaluable tool for studying molecules and their interactions, and its use is likely to continue to grow in the future. Research has demonstrated that Raman spectroscopy is capable of accurately diagnosing various types of cancer, making it a valuable alternative to traditional diagnostic methods such as endoscopy. Infrared spectroscopy can provide complementary information to Raman spectroscopy and detect a wide range of biomolecules at low concentrations, even in complex biological samples. The article concludes with a comparison of the techniques and insights into future directions.
The Role of COVID-19-Associated Fear, Stress and Level of Social Support in Development of Suicidality in Patients Diagnosed with Affective and Stress-Induced Psychiatric Disorders during the COVID-19 Pandemic—A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Kuljancic Dusan , Cvjetkovic Bosnjak Mina , Siladji Djendji , Hinic Darko , Veskovic Dunja , Janjic Nebojsa , Ratkovic Dragana , Zivanovic Olga , Vasic Vesna , Sakic Branislav
Published: May 2023

Only a few studies seem to address suicidality as an effect of the COVID-19 pandemic in persons previously affected by psychiatric disorders. The relationship between fear and stress caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the level of social support and suicidality in patients diagnosed with affective and stress-induced psychiatric disorders prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic were investigated. This study was observational and involved 100 participants. The examined period was from April 2020 to April 2022. The Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FCV-19S), the Oslo Social Support Scale 3 (OSSS-3) and general psychiatric interviews were used to obtain data. A statistically significant relationship between the impact of COVID-19-related distress on the occurrence of suicidality and the year of the pandemic χ2(2, N = 100) = 8.347, p = 0.015 was observed. No statistically significant correlation was found between suicidal behavior, stress intensity, fear and the score on the social support scale (p > 0.05). Fear related to the COVID-19 pandemic can only be seen as a contributor to suicidality. Overall, social support does not always act protectively. Previously stressful experiences such as wars, poverty and natural disasters seem to play a significant role in the resilience to each new public health crisis.
Virtual Reality Applications in Neurorehabilitation: Current Panorama and Challenges
Authors: Nieto-Escamez Francisco , Cortés-Pérez Irene , Obrero-Gaitán Esteban , Fusco Augusto
Published: May 2023

Central Nervous System Diseases are a leading cause of disability worldwide, posing significant social and economic burdens for patients, their families, caregivers, and society as a whole [...]
Experimental Behavior of Confined Masonry Walls Rehabilitated with Reinforced Mortar Jacketing Subjected to Cyclic Loading
Authors: Lubin Cyprien , Guerrero Hector , Alcocer Sergio M. , Lopez Batiz Oscar
Published: May 2023

Results of an experimental program of 13 confined masonry walls rehabilitated with different techniques are presented. All specimens were built to full-scale with an aspect ratio (height to length) of 1. Vertical confining elements of one wall were built with 6.4 mm diameter welded wire reinforcing cages. Before rehabilitation, 11 of the 13 walls were initially tested to induce repairable damage; the other 2 were strengthened in an undamaged state. During testing, walls were subjected to a constant vertical load. Initially, damaged walls were rehabilitated using various techniques, such as jacketing made of mortar and welded wire mesh and synthetic or steel fibers. One initially damaged wall was rehabilitated with premixed mortar and fiberglass mesh. After rehabilitation, specimens were tested for failure. The experimental program is discussed, including materials characterization and main test results. Recommendations to practicing engineers involved in rehabilitating earthquake-damaged masonry structures are presented. It was found that the original capacity of the walls, in terms of strength, stiffness, and deformation, was increased considerably using the studied techniques. It is concluded that the techniques evaluated in this project are adequate for the seismic rehabilitation of masonry structures.
Experiencing Temporary Home Design for Young Urban Dwellers: “We Can’t Put Anything on the Wall”
Authors: Overtoom Marjolein Euwkje , Elsinga Marja G. , Bluyssen Philomena M.
Published: May 2023

A significant number of young people live in temporary homes, which are designed to fulfil basic needs and provide space for normal activities. However, it is unclear what those basic activities are. Moreover, the indoor environmental quality is often left out of the meaning of home, although activities and objects can affect its experienced quality. We therefore verbally and visually explored how young temporary dwellers appropriate and experience their homes, including the indoor environmental quality. Fourteen young adults took part in semi-structured interviews and photographed their most used as well as their favourite place. The interviews were transcribed and analysed following an interpretative phenomenological analysis. The experiences of appropriation in the home were connected to the physical environment through an analysis of the photos and floor plans (sketched by the researcher) using an architectural analysis from the user perspective. The outcome showed that the young adults appropriated their home in three ways: by familiarising the place with objects and “normal” activities, organising where things are and when they happen, and managing the indoor environmental quality through activities and objects. It is concluded that qualitative and visual analyses can assist with making recommendations to improve the design of temporary housing.
A Paradigm Shift in Primary Liver Cancer Therapy Utilizing Genomics, Molecular Biomarkers, and Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Moroney James , Trivella Juan , George Ben , White Sarah B.
Published: May 2023

Primary liver cancer is the sixth most common cancer worldwide and the third leading cause of cancer-related death. Conventional therapies offer limited survival benefit despite improvements in locoregional liver-directed therapies, which highlights the underlying complexity of liver cancers. This review explores the latest research in primary liver cancer therapies, focusing on developments in genomics, molecular biomarkers, and artificial intelligence. Attention is also given to ongoing research and future directions of immunotherapy and locoregional therapies of primary liver cancers.
Novel Laser-Assisted Chemical Bath Synthesis of Pure and Silver-Doped Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles with Improved Antimicrobial and Photocatalytic Properties
Authors: Zyoud Samer H. , Alalalmeh Samer O. , Hegazi Omar E. , Yahia Ibrahim S. , Zahran Heba Y. , Sara Hamed Abu , Bloukh Samir Haj , Shahwan Moyad , Zyoud Ahed H. , Hassan Nageeb , Ashames Akram , Daher Malek G. , Makhadmeh Ghaseb N. , Jairoun Ammar , Qamhieh Naser , Abdel-wahab Mohamed Sh.
Published: May 2023

Antimicrobial resistance poses a significant threat to global health, amplified by factors such as water scarcity and suboptimal hygienic practices. Addressing AMR effectively necessitates a comprehensive strategy encompassing enhanced access to potable water, developing innovative antibiotics, and exploring alternative treatment modalities, such as harnessing solar photocatalysis with zinc oxide nanoparticles for water purification and antimicrobial applications. The Laser-Assisted Chemical Bath Synthesis (LACBS) technique facilitates the fabrication of pure ZnO nanostructures, providing a potentially efficacious solution for mitigating pathogen proliferation and managing wastewater. The photocatalytic degradation of MB and MO dyes was investigated using blue laser light at 445 nm, and degradation rates were determined accordingly. Ag-doped ZnO nanostructures were characterized through X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The antimicrobial efficacy of LACBS-synthesized ZnO nanoparticles was assessed against C. albicans, S. aureus, B. subtilis, E. coli, and K. pneumoniae using the disc diffusion method, revealing 40 mm, 37 mm, 21 mm, 27 mm, and 45 mm inhibition zones at the highest concentration of doped-Ag (4.5%), respectively. These inhibition zones were measured in accordance with the guidelines established by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute. X-ray diffraction patterns for ZnO, ZnOAg(1.5%), ZnO:Ag(3%), and ZnO:Ag(4.5%) samples revealed variations in intensity and crystallinity. Scanning electron microscopy exposed morphological disparities among the nanostructures, while energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy verified their elemental compositions. UV-Vis absorption analyses inspected the optical band gaps, and Fourier-transform infrared spectra identified the stretching mode of metal-oxygen bonds. Under blue laser irradiation, Ag-doped ZnO exhibited enhanced photocatalytic activity during the photocatalytic degradation. These nanoparticles, synthesized via the cost-effective and straightforward LACBS method, benefit from silver doping that augments their electron-trapping properties and photocatalytic activity, thereby enabling efficient dye degradation. Consequently, Ag-doped ZnO nanoparticles hold promise as a potent solution for counteracting drug-resistant microorganisms and as an effective disinfectant.
Influence of Y Doping on Catalytic Activity of CeO2, MnOx, and CeMnOx Catalysts for Selective Catalytic Reduction of NO by NH3
Authors: La Greca Eleonora , Kharlamova Tamara S. , Grabchenko Maria V. , Svetlichnyi Valery A. , Pantaleo Giuseppe , Consentino Luca , Stonkus Olga A. , Vodyankina Olga V. , Liotta Leonarda Francesca
Published: May 2023

Novel yttrium-doped CeO2, MnOx, and CeMnOx composites are investigated as catalysts for low-temperature NH3-SCR. The study involves the preparation of unmodified oxide supports using a citrate method followed by modification with Y (2 wt.%) using two approaches, including the one-pot citrate method and incipient wetness impregnation of undoped oxides. The NH3-SCR reaction is studied in a fixed-bed quartz reactor to test the ability of the prepared catalysts in NO reduction. The gas reaction mixture consists of 800 ppm NO, 800 ppm NH3, 10 vol.% O2, and He as a balance gas at a WHSV of 25,000 mL g−1 h−1. The results indicate that undoped CeMnOx mixed oxide exhibits significantly higher deNOx performance compared with undoped and Y-doped MnOx and CeO2 catalysts. Indeed, yttrium presence in CeMnOx promotes the competitive NH3-SCO reaction, reducing the amount of NH3 available for NO reduction and lowering the catalyst activity. Furthermore, the physical-chemical properties of the prepared catalysts are studied using nitrogen adsorption/desorption, XRD, Raman spectroscopy, temperature-programmed reduction with hydrogen, and temperature-programmed desorption of ammonia. This study presents a promising approach to enhancing the performance of NH3-SCR catalysts at low temperatures that can have significant implications for reducing NO emissions.
The Haves and Have-Nots: The Mitochondrial Permeability Transition Pore across Species
Authors: Frigo Elena , Tommasin Ludovica , Lippe Giovanna , Carraro Michela , Bernardi Paolo
Published: May 2023

The demonstration that F1FO (F)-ATP synthase and adenine nucleotide translocase (ANT) can form Ca2+-activated, high-conductance channels in the inner membrane of mitochondria from a variety of eukaryotes led to renewed interest in the permeability transition (PT), a permeability increase mediated by the PT pore (PTP). The PT is a Ca2+-dependent permeability increase in the inner mitochondrial membrane whose function and underlying molecular mechanisms have challenged scientists for the last 70 years. Although most of our knowledge about the PTP comes from studies in mammals, recent data obtained in other species highlighted substantial differences that could be perhaps attributed to specific features of F-ATP synthase and/or ANT. Strikingly, the anoxia and salt-tolerant brine shrimp Artemia franciscana does not undergo a PT in spite of its ability to take up and store Ca2+ in mitochondria, and the anoxia-resistant Drosophila melanogaster displays a low-conductance, selective Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release channel rather than a PTP. In mammals, the PT provides a mechanism for the release of cytochrome c and other proapoptotic proteins and mediates various forms of cell death. In this review, we cover the features of the PT (or lack thereof) in mammals, yeast, Drosophila melanogaster, Artemia franciscana and Caenorhabditis elegans, and we discuss the presence of the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis and of other forms of cell death. We hope that this exercise may help elucidate the function(s) of the PT and its possible role in evolution and inspire further tests to define its molecular nature.
HDV RNA Levels and Progression of Hepatitis Delta Infection: A 14 Year Follow Up Experience in Italy
Authors: Mangia Alessandra , Squillante Maria Maddalena , Fraticelli Filippo , Cavorsi Maria Chiara , Paroni Giulia , Zaffarano Lucia , Piazzolla Annarita Valeria
Published: May 2023

Background: Identification of outcome predictors is one of the unmet needs in chronic HDV infection. Until recently, no reliable quantitative assays for HDV RNA were available. Aims: To evaluate the impact of baseline viremia on natural history of HDV infection in a cohort of patients whose serum samples were stored at their first visit 15 years ago. Methods: Quantitative HBsAg, HBeAg, HBeAb, HBV DNA, HDV RNA, genotypes, and liver disease severity were assessed at baseline. Patients who were no longer on active follow-up were recalled and re-evaluated in August 2022. Results: The majority of patients were male (64.9%); the median age was 50.1 years; and all patients were Italian, with only three born in Romania. All were HBeAg negative with HBV genotype D infection. Patients were subdivided three groups: 23 were in active follow-up (Group 1), 21 were recalled due to no longer being in follow-up (Group 2), and 11 died (Group 3). Liver cirrhosis was diagnosed in 28 subjects at the first visit; 39.3% of diagnosed patients were in Group 3, 32.1% were in Group 1 and 28.6% were in Group 2 (p = 0.001). Baseline HBV DNA IU/mL Log10 were 1.6 (1.0–5.9) in Group 1, 1.3 (1.0–4.5) in Group 2, and 4.1 (1.5–4.5) in Group 3; median baseline HDV RNA Log10 levels were 4.1 (0.7–6.7) in Group 1, 3.2 (0.7–6.2) in Group 2, and 5.2 (0.7–6.7) in Group 3, resulting significantly higher rates among patients in Group 3 compared to the other groups (p = 0.038). Eighteen patients in Group 2, as compared to 7 in Group 1, had undetectable HDV RNA at the follow-up evaluation (p = 0.001). Conclusions: HDV chronic infection is a heterogeneous disease. It may not only progress but also improve over time in patients, who eventually become HDV RNA-undetectable. HDV RNA levels may help identify the subgroup of patients with less progressive liver disease.
PPARγ Acetylation in Adipocytes Exacerbates BAT Whitening and Worsens Age-Associated Metabolic Dysfunction
Authors: He Ying , Zhang Ruotong , Yu Lexiang , Zahr Tarik , Li Xueming , Kim Tae-Wan , Qiang Li
Published: May 2023

Aging and obesity are the two prominent driving forces of metabolic dysfunction, yet the common underlying mechanisms remain elusive. PPARγ, a central metabolic regulator and primary drug target combatting insulin resistance, is hyperacetylated in both aging and obesity. By employing a unique adipocyte-specific PPARγ acetylation-mimetic mutant knock-in mouse model, namely aKQ, we demonstrate that these mice develop worsened obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and glucose intolerance as they age, and these metabolic deregulations are resistant to intervention by intermittent fasting. Interestingly, aKQ mice show a whitening phenotype of brown adipose tissue (BAT) manifested in lipid filling and suppressed BAT markers. Diet-induced obese aKQ mice retain an expected response to thiazolidinedione (TZD) treatment, while BAT function remains impaired. This BAT whitening phenotype persists even with the activation of SirT1 through resveratrol treatment. Moreover, the adverse effect of TZDs on bone loss is exacerbated in aKQ mice and is potentially mediated by their increased Adipsin levels. Our results collectively suggest pathogenic implications of adipocyte PPARγ acetylation, contributing to metabolic dysfunction in aging and thus posing as a potential therapeutic target.
On the Redox Equilibrium of TPP/TPPO Containing Cu(I) and Cu(II) Complexes
Authors: Faber Stephanie L. , Dilmen Nesrin I. , Becker Sabine
Published: May 2023

Copper(II) clusters of the type [CuII4OCl6L4] (L = ligand or solvent) are a well-studied example of inverse coordination compounds. In the past, they have been studied because of their structural, magnetic, and spectroscopic features. They have long been believed to be redox-inactive compounds, but recent findings indicate a complex chemical equilibrium with diverse mononuclear as well as multinuclear copper(I) and copper(II) compounds. Furthermore, depending on the ligand system, such cluster compounds have proven to be versatile catalysts, e.g., in the oxidation of cyclohexane to adipic acid. This report covers a systematic study of the formation of [CuII4OCl6(TPP)4] and [CuII4OCl6(TPPO)4] (TPP = triphenylphosphine, PPh3; TPPO = triphenylphosphine oxide, O=PPh3) as well as the redox equilibrium of these compounds with mononuclear copper(I) and copper(II) complexes such as [CuIICl2(TPPO)2], [{CuIICl2}2(TPPO)2], [{CuIICl2}3(TPPO)2], [{CuII4Cl4}(TPP)4], and [CuICl(TPP)n] (n = 1–3).
Recent Advances for Imidacloprid Detection Based on Functional Nanomaterials
Authors: Chen Shu , Wang Yawen , Liu Xiuli , Ding Longhua
Published: May 2023

Imidacloprid (IMI) has been applied in agricultural production to prevent pests. It is vital to detect IMI residues with high sensitivity for food safety. In general, nanomaterials have driven the development of highly sensitive sensing platforms owing to their unique physical and chemical properties. Nanomaterials play important roles in the construction of high-performance sensors, mainly through sample pretreatment and purification, recognition molecules immobilization, signal amplification, and providing catalytic active sites. This review addresses the advances in IMI sensors based on the combination of nanomaterials and various analytical techniques. The design principles and performance of different chromatographic, electrochemical, and fabricated optical sensors coupled with nanomaterials are discussed. Finally, the challenges and prospects of sensors based on nanomaterials for IMI analysis have also been incorporated.
Factors Associated with Atopic Dermatitis among Children Aged 6 to 14 Years in Alimosho Local Government, Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Kayode Olubunmi A. , Mokoatle Charlotte M. , Rathebe Phoka C. , Mbonane Thokozani P.
Published: May 2023

There has been a rise in the prevalence of atopic dermatitis (AD) globally, especially in low-and middle-income countries such as Nigeria. The condition has been linked to genetic predisposes, living conditions, and environmental factors. Environmental factors are considered a significant contributor to AD in low- and middle-income countries. This study determined the prevalence of AD in south-western Nigeria and identified risk factors in home and school environments that children aged 6 to 14 years are exposed to. A cross-sectional study was adopted, and the total sample size was 349. Four randomly selected health facilities were used for the study. A questionnaire was used to determine the risk factors in the population. Data analysis was performed using the latest version of Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS). The prevalence of atopic dermatitis in this study is 25%. Atopic dermatitis was found to be common in females (27%). According to the univariate analysis, children who lived where trucks pass on the street almost daily had the highest cases of atopic dermatitis (28%). Children with rugs in their houses (26%) and those whose houses are surrounded by bushes (26%) had higher cases of atopic dermatitis. Children who played on school grass (26%), attended creche with rubber toys (28%), and attended school where wooden chairs (28%) and chalkboards (27%) are used had a higher number of AD. Bivariate analysis showed an association between AD with a mother’s monthly income (p = 0.012) and eating potatoes (p = 0.005), fruits (p = 0.040), and cereal (p = 0.057). In the multivariate analysis, the consumption of fruits (p = 0.02), potatoes (p < 0.001), and cereal (p = 0.04) were identified as risk factors associated with AD. It is envisaged that the study will serve as a basis for possible research on evidence-based and primary prevention options. Hence, we recommend health education activities to empower communities to protect themselves against environmental risk factors that are preventable.
Torrefaction of Pine Using a Pilot-Scale Rotary Reactor: Experimentation, Kinetics, and Process Simulation Using Aspen Plus™
Authors: Hazra Suchandra , Morampudi Prithvi , Prindle John C. , Fortela Dhan Lord B. , Hernandez Rafael , Zappi Mark E. , Buchireddy Prashanth
Published: May 2023

Biomass is an excellent sustainable carbon neutral energy source, however its use as a coal/petroleum coke substitute in thermal applications poses several challenges. Several inherent properties of biomass including higher heating value (HHV), bulk density, and its hydrophilic and fibrous nature, all contribute to challenges for it to be used as a solid fuel. Torrefaction or mild pyrolysis is a well-accepted thermal pretreatment technology that solves most of the above-mentioned challenges and results in a product with superior coal-like properties. Torrefaction involves the heating of biomass to moderate temperatures typically between 200 °C and 300 °C in a non-oxidizing atmosphere. This study focused on evaluating the influence of torrefaction operating temperature (204–304 °C) and residence time (10–40 min) on properties of pine. Tests were performed on a continuous 0.3 ton/day indirectly heated rotary reactor. The influence of torrefaction operational conditions on pine was evaluated in terms of the composition of torrefied solids, mass yield, energy yield, and HHV using a simulated model developed in Aspen Plus™ software. A kinetic model was established based on the experimental data generated. An increase in torrefaction severity (increasing temperature and residence time) resulted in an increase in carbon content, accompanied with a decrease in oxygen and hydrogen. Results from the simulated model suggest that the solid and energy yields decreased with an increase in temperature and residence time. Solid yield varied from 80% at 204 °C to 68% at 304 °C, and energy yield varied from 99% at 204 °C to 70% at 304 °C, respectively. On the other hand, HHV improved from 22.8 to 25.1 MJ/kg with an increase in temperature at 20 min residence time. Over the range of 10 to 40 min residence time at 260 °C, solid and energy yields varied from 77% to 59% and 79% to 63%, respectively; however the HHV increased by only 3%. Solid yield, energy yield, and HHV simulated data were within the 5% error margin when compared to the experimental data. Validation of the simulation parameters was achieved by the conformance of the experimental and simulation data obtained under the same testing conditions. These simulated parameters can be utilized to study other operating conditions fundamental for the commercialization of these processes. Desirable torrefaction temperature to achieve the highest solid fuel yield can be determined using the energy yield and mass loss data.
Historical and Projected Trends of the Mean Surface Temperature in South-Southeast Mexico Using ERA5 and CMIP6
Authors: Andrade-Velázquez Mercedes , Montero-Martínez Martín José
Published: May 2023

This study aimed to determine the mean temperature trends in the south-southeast region of Mexico during the historical period of 1980–2014, as well as during the future periods of 2021–2040, 2041–2060, and 2081–2100, as recommended by the IPCC. Additionally, the study sought to identify the climate change scenario that is most closely aligned with the socio-environmental conditions of the south-southeast zone of Mexico and that has the greatest impact on the region’s average temperature. The downscaling method of bias correction was conducted at a spatial resolution of 0.25° × 0.25°, and an analysis of historical trends was performed for the period 1980–2014 with ERA5 and four CMIP6 models (CNRM-ESM2-1, IPSL-CM6A-LR, MIROC6, and MRI-ESM2-0). This process was extended to future projections. The models indicated temperature differences of less than 0.5 °C with respect to ERA5, in agreement with other studies. Additionally, the current study calculated future trends for the south-southeast region using three of the CMIP6 scenarios (SSP2-4.5, SSP4-6.0, and SSP5-8.5). The z-eq proposal was used to compare the slopes, enabling us to determine which of the three scenarios corresponded to the historical trend, assuming identical socio-environmental conditions. The SSP4-6.0 scenario was found to correspond to the historical trend.
NbSe2 Crystals Growth by Bromine Transport
Authors: Dimitrov Dimitre , Rafailov Peter , Marinova Vera , Avramova Ivalina , Kovacheva Daniela , Dionisiev Irnik , Minev Nikolay , Gospodinov Marin
Published: May 2023

Recently, low-dimensional structures in the form of bulk crystals and nanoflakes have received considerable interest due to their 2D unique functionality and promising applications in electronics, photonics, sensing devices and photovoltaic solar cells. As a result, remarkable efforts and modifications have been made for the synthesis process of crystalline material by the vapor transport technique. Here, an alternative concept of NbSe2 crystal growth by the chemical vapor transport (CVT) technique using bromine as a vapor transport agent is presented and subsequently analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) spectroscopy. X-ray powder diffraction analysis revealed hexagonal 2H-NbSe2 and 4H-NbSe2 phases, and characteristic Raman and XPS spectra typical for crystalline NbSe2 were obtained. The environmental sensitivity of the grown crystals is manifested by luminescence attributed to oxidized Nb at the samples’ surface.