bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nephrite Jade and Related Rocks from Western Washington State, USA: A Geologic Overview
Authors: Mustoe George E.
Published: November 2024

The geologic framework of western Washington, USA, is the result of collisional tectonics, where oceanic plate materials were subducted beneath the continental margin. As part of this process, fragments of mantle peridotites were transported into the upper crust along deep faults. The hydration of these ultramafic materials produced bodies of serpentinite. Subsequent regional metamorphism caused metasomatism of the serpentinite to produce a variety of minerals, which include nephrite jade, grossular, chlorite, diopside, vesuvianite, and pumpellyite. Many of the nephrite-bearing rocks are located along the Darrington–Devils Mountain Fault Zone in Skagit and Snohomish Counties. Intense prospecting has led to the establishment of many mining claims, but recreational collecting remains a popular activity.
State of the Art and Challenges in Complete Benzene Oxidation: A Review
Authors: Tabakova Tatyana
Published: November 2024

Increased levels and detrimental effects of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) on air quality and human health have become an important issue in the environmental field. Benzene is classified as one of the most hazardous air pollutants among non-halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons with toxic, carcinogenic, and mutagenic effects. Various technologies have been applied to decrease harmful emissions from various sources such as petrochemistry, steel manufacturing, organic chemical, paint, adhesive, and pharmaceutical production, vehicle exhausts, etc. Catalytic oxidation to CO2 and water is an attractive approach to VOC removal due to high efficiency, low energy consumption, and the absence of secondary pollution. However, catalytic oxidation of the benzene molecule is a great challenge because of the extraordinary stability of its six-membered ring structure. Developing highly efficient catalysts is of primary importance for effective elimination of benzene at low temperatures. This review aims to summarize and discuss some recent advances in catalyst composition and preparation strategies. Advantages and disadvantages of using noble metal-based catalysts and transition metal oxide-based catalysts are addressed. Effects of some crucial factors such as catalyst support nature, metal particle size, electronic state of active metal, redox properties, reactivity of lattice oxygen and surface adsorbed oxygen on benzene removal are explored. Thorough elucidation of reaction mechanisms in benzene oxidation is a prerequisite to develop efficient catalysts. Benzene oxidation mechanisms are analyzed based on in situ catalyst characterization, reaction kinetics, and theoretical simulation calculations. Considering the role of oxygen vacancies in improving catalytic performance, attention is given to oxygen defect engineering. Catalyst deactivation due to coexistence of water vapor and other pollutants, e.g., sulfur compounds, is discussed. Future research directions for rational design of catalysts for complete benzene oxidation are provided.
Study of the Process of Calcium Sulfide-Based Luminophore Formation from Phosphogypsum
Authors: Egorova Marina A. , Monastyrskiy Daniil I. , Medennikov Oleg A. , Shabelskaya Nina P. , Khliyan Zlatislava D. , Ulyanova Vera A. , Sulima Sergey I. , Sulima Elena V.
Published: November 2024

One of the priority goals of sustainable socio-economic development for the period up to 2030 is providing food for the planet’s population. This entails an increase in the output of mineral fertilizers and, consequently, an increase in the quantities of solid industrial waste. Phosphogypsum, a by-product of phosphate fertilizer production from apatite ore, is one example of such waste. The problem of solid industrial waste recycling is urgent. The present study examines the process of converting calcium sulfate, in the form of a reagent, and phosphogypsum into a composite material of calcium sulfate/sulfide. An environmentally friendly material, sucrose, is used as a reducing agent. Reduced phosphogypsum (as well as calcium sulfate) luminescence is suggested to be associated with the formation of a CaS/CaSO4 composite material. The synthesized materials are characterized by X-ray phase analysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, elemental analysis, and calcium sulfide qualitative and quantitative content in the samples. It is shown that in the reduction process at the phase contact point, crystal grids are formed with a significant number of defects, which contributes to the convergence of some of the energy levels of the calcium cation and sulfide anion, facilitating the transitions of electrons from the valence zone to the core zone and the formation of luminescence centers (cross-luminescence). Both samples of reduced phosphogypsum and alkaline earth metal sulfates are found to exhibit luminescence properties under ultraviolet radiation. The data obtained open up broad prospects for the use of solid industrial waste for the synthesis of new materials.
A Novel Cellulose-Supported Polymer Electrolyte with High Ionic Conductivity for Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Cao Xuefei , Xin Mingyang , Yin Jiaxin
Published: November 2024

The traditional liquid electrolytes pose safety hazards primarily attributed to the flammability of organic solvent, whereas solid-state electrolytes can significantly enhance the safety of lithium-ion batteries. Polymer solid electrolytes are being considered as an effective solution due to their excellent flexibility and low cost, but they suffer low ionic conductivity or high interface impedance. Here, the ketone-containing allyl acetoacetate monomers were polymerized within the cellulose membrane via UV photopolymerization to prepare a cellulose-supported poly-allyl acetoacetate polymer electrolyte. The PAAA electrolyte shows the ion conductivity of 1.14 × 10−4 S cm−1 and the electrochemical stability window of 4.5 V. The Li symmetric battery can stably cycle for 1500 h at 0.1 mA cm−2. The LiFeO4‖Li cell achieves a discharge specific capacity of 160 mAh g−1 and demonstrates excellent cycling stability. Matching with Ni-rich cathodes also delivers decent performance. The designed polymer electrolyte with high ionic conductivity offers new ideas and directions for the development of future energy storage technology.
Peroxiredoxin 4 Ameliorates T-2 Toxin-Induced Growth Retardation in GH3 Cells by Inhibiting Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis
Authors: Lu Qirong , Zhu Yi , Wang Luyao , Mei Meng , Qiu Yinsheng , Liu Yu , Fu Shulin , Xiong Jianglin , Guo Pu , Wu Zhongyuan , Wang Xu
Published: November 2024

T-2 toxin, a highly toxic type A trichothecene, is a secondary fungal metabolite produced by various Fusarium species. The consumption of food and feed contaminated with T-2 toxin is a major factor contributing to growth retardation, posing significant risks to both human and animal health. However, the specific targets and mechanisms that mitigate T-2 toxin-induced growth retardation remain unclear. In this study, transcriptomic analysis was employed to identify key differentially expressed genes associated with the alleviation of T-2 toxin-induced growth retardation. Peroxiredoxin 4 (PRDX4), a gene linked to oxidative stress and apoptosis, was found to be one of the most downregulated in T-2 toxin-treated GH3 cells, an in vitro model of growth retardation. The experiments demonstrated that T-2 toxin significantly increased reactive oxygen species’ production, apoptosis, and cell cycle arrest while reducing the activity of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase) and PRDX4 expression in GH3 cells. Furthermore, PRDX4 silencing exacerbated T-2 toxin-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis, whereas PRDX4 overexpression effectively mitigated these effects. These findings highlight the protective role of PRDX4 in counteracting T-2 toxin-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis, suggesting that PRDX4 can serve as a therapeutic target for the treatment of T-2 toxin-induced growth retardation.
Stereoselective Total Synthesis of Natural Decanolides Bellidisin C and Pinolidoxin
Authors: Bi Jingjing , Chen Minhao , Nie Pengpeng , Liu Yuanfang , Liu Jun , Du Yuguo
Published: November 2024

A divergent total synthesis of bioactive, naturally occurring decanolides, pinolidoxin and bellidisin C, was accomplished by taking advantage of chiral templates L-ribose and L-malic acid. In particular, bellidisin C, which is the first total synthesis so far, was achieved through a cascade reaction of reductive elimination and nucleophilic addition in a one-pot process and a sodium–alkoxide-promoted intramolecular lactonization as the key steps.
Genistein and Naringenin as Defense Molecules
Authors: Goławska Sylwia , Łukasik Iwona , Czerniewicz Paweł
Published: November 2024

Genistein and naringenin, plant phenolic compounds, are recognized for their health benefits and role in plant defense against herbivores. However, little research exists on how these compounds affect aphid feeding, particularly that of the black bean aphid (Aphis fabae Scopoli) (Hemiptera: Aphididae), a major pest. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of genistein and naringenin, applied in vitro at different concentrations, on the feeding behavior of A. fabae. Statistical analysis indicated that both the type and concentration of flavonoids significantly influenced aphid stylet activity, salivation, and ingestion. Higher concentrations of both compounds hindered feeding behavior. A longer initial probe was observed on gels containing the studied flavonoids. Genistein at 0.1% completely inhibited salivation while at 0.01%, it reduced the duration of salivation activities. Both compounds also delayed the start and lengthened the duration of active ingestion, though A. fabae tolerated genistein better than naringenin. Naringenin’s effects on feeding behavior were more pronounced at higher concentrations. These findings suggest that genistein and naringenin could be valuable chemicals to protect plants from aphids in a sustainable and environmentally friendly way.
The Effect of Osmotic Dehydration Conditions on the Potassium Content in Beetroot (Beta vulgaris L.)
Authors: Kulczyński Bartosz , Suliburska Joanna , Gramza-Michałowska Anna , Sidor Andrzej , Kowalczewski Przemysław Łukasz , Brzozowska Anna
Published: November 2024

Osmotic dehydration as a process of removing water from food by immersing the raw material in a hypertonic solution is used primarily to extend the shelf life of products and as a pretreatment before further processing steps, such as drying and freezing. However, due to the bi-directional mass transfer that occurs during osmotic dehydration, the process can also be used to shape sensory properties and enrich the plant matrix with nutrients. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of osmotic dehydration on the absorption of potassium by beet pulp immersed in various hypertonic solutions (sucrose, inulin, erythritol, xylitol solutions) with the addition of three chemical forms of potassium (gluconate, citrate, chloride) using variable process conditions. The study proved that osmotic dehydration is an effective way to enrich food. The highest potassium content (5779.03 mg/100 g) was found in a sample osmotically dehydrated in a 50% erythritol solution with 5.0% potassium chloride addition with a process that lasted 180 min and took place at 30 °C. The results obtained indicate the high potential of osmotic dehydration in improving the health values of food products. In addition, the antioxidant activity and proximate composition of osmotically dehydrated samples were also characterized in this study.
First Principles Study of p-Type Transition and Enhanced Optoelectronic Properties of g-ZnO Based on Diverse Doping Strategies
Authors: Bao Kaiqi , Zhao Yanfang , Ding Wei , Xiao Yuanbin , Yang Bing
Published: November 2024

By utilizing first principles calculations, p-type transition in graphene-like zinc oxide (g-ZnO) through elemental doping was achieved, and the influence of different doping strategies on the electronic structure, energy band structure, and optoelectronic properties of g-ZnO was investigated. This research study delves into the effects of strategies such as single-acceptor doping, double-acceptor co-doping, and donor–acceptor co-doping on the properties of g-ZnO. This study found that single-acceptor doping with Li and Ag elements can form shallow acceptor levels, thereby facilitating p-type conductivity. Furthermore, the introduction of the donor element F can compensate for the deep acceptor levels formed by double-acceptor co-doping, transforming them into shallow acceptor levels and modulating the energy band structure. The co-doping strategy involving double-acceptor elements and a donor element further optimizes the properties of g-ZnO, such as reducing the bandgap and enhancing carrier mobility. Additionally, in terms of optical properties, g-Zn14Li2FO15 demonstrates outstanding performance in the visible-light region compared with other doping systems, especially generating a higher absorption peak around the wavelength of 520 nm. These findings provide a theoretical foundation for the application of g-ZnO in optoelectronic devices.
Green Chemical Shear-Thickening Polishing of Monocrystalline Silicon
Authors: Xie Jiancheng , Shi Feng , Wang Shanshan , Peng Xing , Hao Qun
Published: November 2024

A green chemical shear-thickening polishing (GC-STP) method was studied to improve the surface precision and processing efficiency of monocrystalline silicon. A novel green shear-thickening polishing slurry composed of silica nanoparticles, alumina abrasive, sorbitol, plant ash, polyethylene glycol, and deionized water was formulated. The monocrystalline silicon was roughly ground using a diamond polishing slurry and then the GC-STP process. The material removal rate (MRR) during GC-STP was 4.568 μmh−1. The material removal mechanism during the processing of monocrystalline silicon via GC-STP was studied using elemental energy spectroscopy and FTIR spectroscopy. After 4 h of the GC-STP process, the surface roughness (Ra) of the monocrystalline silicon wafer was reduced to 0.278 nm, and an excellent monocrystalline silicon surface quality was obtained. This study shows that GC-STP is a green, efficient, and low-damage polishing method for monocrystalline silicon.
Recent Advances and Remaining Challenges in Perovskite Solar Cell Components for Innovative Photovoltaics
Authors: Baraneedharan Pari , Sekar Sankar , Murugesan Silambarasan , Ahamada Djaloud , Mohamed Syed Ali Beer , Lee Youngmin , Lee Sejoon
Published: November 2024

This article reviews the latest advancements in perovskite solar cell (PSC) components for innovative photovoltaic applications. Perovskite materials have emerged as promising candidates for next-generation solar cells due to their exceptional light-absorbing capabilities and facile fabrication processes. However, limitations in their stability, scalability, and efficiency have hindered their widespread adoption. This review systematically explores recent breakthroughs in PSC components, focusing on absorbed layer engineering, electron and hole transport layers, and interface materials. In particular, it discusses novel perovskite compositions, crystal structures, and manufacturing techniques that enhance stability and scalability. Additionally, the review evaluates strategies to improve charge carrier mobility, reduce recombination, and address environmental considerations. Emphasis is placed on scalable manufacturing methods suitable for large-scale integration into existing infrastructure. This comprehensive review thus provides researchers, engineers, and policymakers with the key information needed to motivate the further advancements required for the transformative integration of PSCs into global energy production.
Culinary Medicine Cooking Workshops as Add-On Therapy for Inpatients with Depression and Eating Disorders
Authors: Mörkl Sabrina , Varnagy Attila , Wagner-Skacel Jolana , Lahousen Theresa , Brodtrager Daniel , Sallmutter Karl , Bengesser Susanne , Painold Annamaria , Narrath Martin , Pieter Lisa , Butler Mary , Mueller-Stierlin Annabel , Reininghaus Eva , Lackner Sonja , Holasek Sandra
Published: November 2024

Background: Culinary medicine integrates healthy eating with positive food experiences, offering a holistic approach to treating mental health disorders, such as depression and eating disorders, where disruptions in eating habits and mood are common. While traditional psychiatric treatments focus on medication and psychotherapy, culinary workshops provide a novel intervention for inpatient care. This study evaluated the effectiveness of culinary medicine cooking workshops as a supplementary treatment for psychiatric inpatients with depression and eating disorders. Methods: We assessed the feasibility of five cooking workshops led by a professional chef and nutritional therapist in 39 psychiatric inpatients (depression, n = 29; eating disorders, n = 10). Participants completed questionnaires on dietary habits, mood, and workshop feedback before and after the intervention. Results: The workshops were highly accepted, with 90% of participants reporting they would recommend them for recovery. Significant improvements were observed in mood (p < 0.001), sadness (p < 0.001), hopelessness (p = 0.002), and tiredness (p = 0.003) across the overall group. Patients with depression showed improvements in nearly all mood subscales, while those with eating disorders improved in sadness (p = 0.029). Conclusions: Culinary medicine workshops are a promising tool for enhancing mood and reducing hopelessness and tiredness in inpatients with depression. They also promote sustainable lifestyle changes that may benefit long-term physical and mental health. Future studies should explore the long-term impact of these interventions on psychiatric disorders.
Examining the Association Between Overweight, Obesity, and Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Yau Chun En , Lim Gwendolyn Shan Jing , Ang Asher Yu Han , Lim Yu Liang , Goh Orlanda Qi Mei , Siah Kewin Tien Ho , Ng Qin Xiang
Published: November 2024

Background: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common yet debilitating disorder of gut–brain interaction, characterized by gut–brain axis dysregulation, visceral hypersensitivity, and other comorbidities. Obesity has been hypothesized to be a risk factor linked to IBS, albeit evidence remains conflicting. Given the growing global prevalence of obesity and IBS, we performed a meta-analysis examining their purported association. Methods: Embase, MEDLINE, and the Cochrane Library were searched to identify studies reporting the prevalence and odds ratios (ORs) of IBS according to BMI categories. Random effects meta-analyses were used for the primary analysis. Results: From 1713 articles, 27 studies were included. Our findings showed that using study-defined categories for overweight, obese, and normal BMI, the odds of the diagnosis of IBS were not associated with overweight (OR 1.02; 95% CI 0.89 to 1.17; p = 0.772) or obese BMI (OR 1.11; 95% CI 0.91 to 1.37; p = 0.309). The meta-analysis of study-reported adjusted odds ratios of IBS among individuals living with overweight or obesity also did not yield significant results. Further sensitivity analysis by the Rome criteria demonstrated a statistically significant association between obese BMI and IBS in studies using the Rome IV criteria (OR 1.59; 95% CI 1.13 to 2.23; p < 0.01), with significant subgroup difference between studies using the Rome II, Rome III, and Rome IV criteria. Further sensitivity analysis using the different cut-off values and subgroup analysis by geographical territory did not yield significant associations. Conclusions: In summary, excess body weight may not be a primary driver of IBS risk. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies that account for changes in weight and other lifestyle factors, as well as detailed mechanistic investigations.
Weizmannia coagulans BC99 Improves Strength Performance by Enhancing Protein Digestion and Regulating Skeletal Muscle Quality in College Students of Physical Education Major
Authors: Cao Li , Guo Minghan , Zhou Yiqing , Zhang Jie , Tie Shanshan , Li Xuan , Tian Pingping , Wu Ying , Gu Shaobin
Published: November 2024

Background: The dietary proteins are one of the most important factors determining health conditions in humans. The sufficient digestion and absorption of dietary proteins in the digestive tract has positive effects on performance and recovery in sportspeople and athletes. Improving protein digestibility is a strategy for maintaining health status and optimal performance in sport and exercise activities. Objectives: The aim of the present study is to verify whether Weizmannia coagulans BC 99 (BC99) can increase muscle mass and strength. Methods: This randomized double-blind, controlled trial assigned 72 male college students to receive probiotics (n = 36, 20.25 ± 1.03 years; 179.00 ± 5.94 cm; 73.55 ± 8.73 kg, protein powder with BC99) or the placebo (n = 36, 20.19 ± 0.79 years; 179.25 ± 5.16 cm; 73.61 ± 8.24 kg, protein powder) for 12 weeks. At the baseline and final stages of the study, strength tests and body composition assessment were performed. Blood and stool samples were taken at the end of the 12-week intervention, and digestive enzymatic activity of stool samples, biochemical parameters, amino acids and hormone level of plasma were analyzed. Results: BC99 administration significantly improved strength performance, skeletal muscle mass, activity of pepsin and trypsin, the concentrations of branched chain amino acids and essential amino acids, reduced activities of creatine kinase and lactic dehydrogenase and urea nitrogen (BUN) level and increased testosterone and glucagon-like peptide-1 level in male college students. Conclusions: Therefore, BC99 supplementation can be an important nutritional strategy to improve strength performance, body composition, protein digestion and body metabolism in healthy young males.
Overweight Prevalence Changes Before and After COVID-19 in Spain: The PESCA Program Longitudinal Outcomes 2018–2021
Authors: Zarate-Osuna F. , Quesada-González C. , Zapico A. G. , González-Gross M.
Published: November 2024

Background: Overweight prevalence in Spain reached critical levels before the COVID-19 pandemic, which likely exacerbated this issue. The PESCA (Programa Escolar de Salud Cardio-vascular) program is a multicomponent school-based intervention, launched in 2018 with the aim of tackling this health problem and reducing overweight rates in youth. Objectives: (1) To analyze the efficacy of the PESCA program intervention on body composition, overweight prevalence, physical activity (PA)/sport practice, resting time, and screentime before COVID-19 and (2) to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 and the associated lockdown measures on these parameters in the studied sample. Methods: This longitudinal study included 207 children and adolescents from schools in Madrid (aged 2.82 to 15.84 years; 44.4% girls), with measurements taken at three time points: two before COVID-19 and one after its onset. Overweight prevalence, body fat percentage diagnosis, physical activity, resting time, and screentime were assessed. Cochran’s Q test and repeated-measures ANOVA were used to compare outcomes across the three assessment time points. Results: Overweight prevalence remained stable among children in the PESCA program before COVID-19 (17.87% to 19.81%). However, a significant increase was observed from point 2 to point 3, post-COVID-19 onset (19.81% to 26.57%). Similarly, healthy body composition significantly deteriorated from 63.16% at point 2 to 52.48% at point 3. PA/sport practice prevalence significantly increased until COVID-19 onset (80.19% to 91.22%) but declined thereafter (91.22% to 79.10% from point 2 to point 3). Although the differences were small, resting time significantly decreased post-COVID-19 onset (from 10.18 h at point 2 to 9.96 h at point 3), with no changes in the first period. Non-academic screentime showed a similar pattern: stable before COVID-19 and significantly increased after its onset (1.61 h at point 1; 1.70 h at point 2; 2.29 h at point 3). Conclusions: The PESCA program positively impacted PA/sport practice prevalence and may have provided some protection against overweight and related variables during the pre-COVID period. However, health authorities’ restrictions and lockdown policies during COVID-19 negatively affected the health and lifestyle variables studied, offsetting previous improvements.
Prognostic Scores for Acute Kidney Injury in Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Sousa Wisble Pereira , Magro Marcia Cristina da Silva , Paiva Alberto Augusto Martins , Vasconcelos Ruth Silva Rodrigues , dos Reis Abraão Alves , Lima Wellington Luiz de , Duarte Tayse Tâmara da Paixão
Published: November 2024

Background: Numerous prognostic scores have been developed and used in intensive care; however, the applicability and effectiveness of these scores in critically ill patients with acute kidney injury may vary due to the characteristics of this population. Objective: To assess the predictive capacity of the Simplified Acute Physiology Score III (SAPS III), Sequential Sepsis-related Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) and Nursing Activities Score (NAS) prognostic scoring systems for acute kidney injury in critically ill patients. Methods: Cohort, prospective and quantitative study with follow-up of 141 critical patients in intensive care. A questionnaire was used to collect information about the capacity of prognostic scoring systems to predict AKI. Mann–Whitney, Kruskal–Wallis and Bonferroni-corrected Mann–Whitney tests were used and the statistical significance was considered to be at two-sided p < 0.05. Results: It was revealed that 41.85% of patients developed acute kidney injury during their stay in the Intensive Care Unit and indicated greater severity assessed by the medians of prognostic scoring systems—SAPS III [55 (42–65 vs. 38 (32–52), p < 0.001], SOFA [3.3 (2.26–5.00) vs. 0.66 (0.06–2.29), p < 0.001] and NAS [90 (75–95) vs. 97 (91–103), p < 0.001]—when compared to patients without kidney damage. Conclusions: The SAPS III, SOFA and NAS prognostic scoring systems showed good predictive capacity for acute kidney injury in critically ill patients. This study was not registered.
Validation of the Santa Clara Ethics Scale (SCES) in Nursing Students: The Role of Ethics as a Protector of Student Compassion
Authors: Vidal-Blanco Gabriel , Sánchez-Ruiz Javier , Galiana Laura , Pades Antonia , Sansó Noemí
Published: November 2024

Background: Ethics is one of the essential concepts associated with professional nursing practice, and can play a part in the development of compassion. Although a number of instruments have been developed for the measurement of ethics, most are context-specific or excessively lengthy. The Santa Clara Ethics Scale (SCES) overcomes these problems. The goal is to translate, adapt, and validate the Spanish version of the Santa Clara Ethics Scale and to study the role of ethics, as a moral resource, in the prediction of the levels of compassion of nursing students. Methods: This study is a translation, adaptation, and validation study, with a cross-sectional design. A total of 924 Spanish nursing students participated in this study. Ethics and compassion for others were measured. Analyses included a confirmatory factor analysis, reliability estimates, and a structural equation model in which ethics explained the five correlated dimensions of compassion for others. Results: The confirmatory factor analysis had an adequate fit: χ2(35) = 173.56 (p < 0.01), CFI = 0.94, TLI = 0.92, RMSEA = 0.07 [90% CI = 0.06, 0.08], and SRMR = 0.05. Internal consistency was adequate (α = 0.74; ω = 0.83). The predictive model pointed to positive and statistically significant relationships between ethics and all dimensions of compassion for others. Conclusions: The SCES can be considered a suitable instrument for the assessment of ethics in the Spanish nursing population and, thus, can be used as a tool for the measurement of key ethical competencies during the nursing degree. Moreover, the development of ethics is likely to improve the compassion levels of students. Ethics is, then, a key internal resource for both nursing students’ compassionate care skills and, consequently, must be taken into account when redefining nursing students’ curricula.
Exploring the Antimycobacterial Potential of Podocarpusflavone A from Kielmeyera membranacea: In Vitro and In Vivo Insights
Authors: Araujo Marlon Heggdorne de , Muñoz Sánchez Salomé , Simão Thatiana Lopes Biá Ventura , Nowik Natalia , Antunes Stella Schuenck , Pinto Shaft Corrêa , Sorze Davide , Boldrin Francesca , Manganelli Riccardo , Correia Romeiro Nelilma , Lasunskaia Elena B. , Verbeek Fons J. , Spaink Herman P. , Muzitano Michelle Frazão
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Tuberculosis (TB) is one of the leading infectious causes of death worldwide, highlighting the importance of identifying new anti-TB agents. In previous research, our team identified antimycobacterial activity in Kielmeyera membranacea leaf extract; therefore, this study aims to conduct further exploration of its potential. Methods: Classical chromatography was applied for fractionation and spectrometric techniques were utilized for chemical characterization. For in vitro tests, samples were assessed against Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Mycobacterium marinum. The toxicity and efficacy of active samples were evaluated in vivo using different zebrafish models. Chemogenomics studies were applied to predict the isolated active compound’s potential mode of action. Results: We performed fractionation of K. membranacea ethanolic extract (EE) and then its dichloromethane fraction (DCM), and the biflavonoid podocarpusflavone A (PCFA) was isolated and identified as a promising active compound. The EE and PCFA were found to be non-toxic to zebrafish larvae and were able to inhibit M. tuberculosis growth extracellularly. Additionally, PCFA demonstrated antimycobacterial activity within infected macrophages, especially when combined with isoniazid. In addition, the EE, DCM, and PCFA have shown the ability to inhibit M. marinum’s growth during in vivo zebrafish larvae yolk infection. Notably, PCFA also effectively countered systemic infection established through the caudal vein, showing a similar inhibitory activity profile to rifampicin, both at 32 µM. A reduction in the transcriptional levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines confirmed the infection resolution. The protein tyrosine phosphatase B (PtpB) of M. tuberculosis, which inhibits the macrophage immune response, was predicted as a theoretical target of PCFA. This finding is in agreement with the higher activity observed for PCFA intracellularly and in vivo on zebrafish, compared with the direct action in M. tuberculosis. Conclusions: Here, we describe the discovery of PCFA as an intracellular inhibitor of M. tuberculosis and provide evidence of its in vivo efficacy and safety, encouraging its further development as a combination drug in novel therapeutic regimens for TB.
Low-Cost Optical Filters Based on SiOxCy:H and Ag Thin Films Fabricated by Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition and Sputtering
Authors: Kotbi Ahmed , Lejeune Michael , Barroy Pierre , Hamdi Alaoui Ilham , El Hakim Wiaam , Lamarque Frederic , Zeinert Andreas
Published: November 2024

Hexamethyldisiloxane (HMDSO) is an organosilicon compound with a modifiable bandgap, depending on the deposition conditions. This material has many unique properties due to its stability, low toxicity, and strong adhesion, making it useful as a protective barrier against corrosion, moisture, and oxidation. In this work, HMDSO films were deposited on glass substrates by the Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition (PECVD) technique at different deposition times. The optical properties of HMDSO films, such as dielectric permittivity, refractive index, extinction and absorption coefficients, and band gap energy, are inferred from transmission and reflection spectra. As the deposition time increased, the real part of the dielectric constant, the refractive index, and the bandgap energy showed a decrease, dropping from 4.24 to 3.40, from 2.06 to 1.84, and from 2.85 eV to 2.03 eV, respectively. The latter result is determined using classical models such as the O’Leary-Johnson-Lim (‘OJL’) interband transition and the harmonic oscillator model. HMDSO and Silver are used in this study for the fabrication of optical filters using two types of structures, a multiple cavity metal–dielectric (MCMD) and the Fabry–Perot structure. The silver layers are deposited by a sputtering process. The MCMD optical filter shows a higher transmittance of about 30%, but a wide range of wavelengths is transmitted. In contrast, the Fabry–Perot filter showed high contrast but a lower transmittance of about 20%.
Extra-Cavity Modulating a Soliton Molecule with Chirped Gaussian Pulse Shape
Authors: Tang Daqian , Zhan Junxiao , Wang Dayu , Wang Haoming , Peng Yangyang , Tiu Zian Cheak , Zhou Yan
Published: November 2024

In this work, we theoretically simulate the modulation of a soliton molecule that has an initial chirped Gaussian pulse shape in a 1 μm extra-cavity optical fiber modulation system. Different soliton parameters in orthogonal polarizations are applied to achieve controllable optical solitons’ output with specific properties in the time/frequency domain. For instance, when the phase difference is changed, both pulse shapes’ and corresponding optical spectra’s peak intensities will have a sudden change when the orthogonal phase difference is π/2. These simulation results provide a beneficial reference value for extra-cavity shaping of different solitons that come from nonlinear optical systems. Optimally, the reported results could pave the groundwork for industrial growth in ultrafast laser design.
Bionic Compass Method Based on Atmospheric Polarization Optimization in Non-Ideal Clear Condition
Authors: Li Yuyang , Wang Xia , Zhang Min , Li Ruiqiang , Sun Qiyang
Published: November 2024

The bionic polarization compass is a fascinating subject in the navigation domain. Existing polarization navigation models are primarily based on Rayleigh scattering theory, which is applicable to high-altitude, dry, and clear weather conditions. In most scenarios, it is difficult to meet such ideal clear conditions. This paper proposes a bionic navigation method based on atmospheric polarization optimization to improve heading accuracy under non-ideal clear conditions. A signal model under non-ideal clear conditions was firstly established to introduce disturbances of aerosols and other particles into the raw signal function acquired by a camera. Then, an energy functional optimization model was constructed to eliminate the disturbances caused by large particle scattering and restore the original sky polarization pattern. Subsequently, the heading angle was calculated using astronomical data, enhancing accuracy under non-ideal conditions. Finally, we constructed a polarization compass system and conducted field experiments. The results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm effectively mitigates the impact of scattering from aerosols and other particles, reducing the heading angle error to within 2° under sunny, cloudy, overcast and sandy conditions.
Dynamics of Neutron Transfer in the Reaction 3He + 9Be
Authors: Azhibekov Aidos K. , Almanbetova Englik K. , Naumenko Mikhail A. , Mendibayev Kairat O. , Lukyanov Sergey M. , Issatayev Talgat G. , Urazbekov Bakhytzhan A. , Kabyshev Asset M. , Dyussebayeva Kuralay , Zholdybayev Timur K.
Published: November 2024

The paper presents the results of experiments on measuring cross-sections for the neutron transfer channels 9Be(3He, α)8Begs,3.03 in the reaction of the 3He (30 MeV) ions with the 9Be target. To describe the angular distributions, we use the Distorted Wave Born Approximation (DWBA) applying the FRESCO code. The results of the theoretical analysis are in agreement with the experimental data. In addition, we perform calculations based on the solution of the time-dependent Schrödinger equation (TDSE) for the weakly bound neutron of the 9Be nucleus. The TDSE approach allows us to determine the dynamics of the neutron transfer process and calculate the probabilities for the transfer and removal of the neutron of the 9Be nucleus in the 3He + 9Be reaction.
Phytochemical, Antioxidant, Antimicrobial and Safety Profile of Glycyrrhiza glabra L. Extract Obtained from Romania
Authors: Semenescu Iulia , Avram Stefana , Similie Diana , Minda Daliana , Diaconeasa Zorita , Muntean Delia , Lazar Antonina Evelina , Gurgus Daniela , Danciu Corina
Published: November 2024

Glycyrrhiza glabra L., also known as licorice, belongs to the Fabaceae family and is one of the most commercially valuable plants worldwide, being used in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food industries, both for its therapeutic benefits as well as for the sweetening properties of the extract. This study evaluates the phytochemical composition, the biological activities, and the safety profile of a methanolic extract of licorice root (LRE) obtained from Romania. Ten phytocompounds were quantified by the HPLC-DAD-ESI+, the most abundant being the triterpene glycyrrhizin (13.927 mg/g dry extract.), followed by these flavonoids: liquiritin, liquiritigenin-apiosyl-glucoside, and apigenin-rutinoside liquiritigenin. The total phenolic content of the LRE was found to be 169.83 mg gallic acid/g dry extract. (GAE/g d.e.), and the extract showed a maximum of 79.29% antioxidant activity in the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. Good antimicrobial activity of the LRE was observed for Gram-negative bacteria, especially for S. pneumoniae and S. pyogenes. The mineral content of the LRE was indicative of the lack of toxicity; heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, arsenic, nickel, and cobalt were below the detection limit. The safety profile of the licorice extract was assessed using the in vivo hen egg test-chorioallantoic membrane (HET-CAM protocol), indicating no irritability, good tolerability, and biocompatibility. The phytochemical and biological characterization of the Romanian licorice root extract reveals a good source of glycyrrhizin and polyphenols with antioxidant and antimicrobial potential, along with a safety profile that may be useful for future therapeutic applications.
Effects of pH, Temperature, and Light on the Inorganic Carbon Uptake Strategies in Early Life Stages of Macrocystis pyrifera (Ochrophyta, Laminariales)
Authors: Labbé Bárbara S. , Fernández Pamela A. , Florez July Z. , Buschmann Alejandro H.
Published: November 2024

The responses of seaweed species to increased CO2 and lowered pH (Ocean Acidification: OA) depend on their carbon concentrating mechanisms (CCMs) and inorganic carbon (Ci) preferences. However, few studies have described these mechanisms in the early life stages of seaweeds or assessed the effects of OA and its interactions with other environmental drivers on their functionality and photophysiology. Our study evaluated the effects of pH, light (PAR), temperature, and their interactions on the Ci uptake strategies and photophysiology in the early stages of Macrocystis pyrifera. Gametophytes were cultivated under varying pH (7.80 and 8.20), light (20 and 50 µmol photons m−2s−1), and temperature (12 and 16 °C) conditions for 25 days. We assessed photophysiological responses and CCMs (in particular, the extracellular dehydration of HCO3− to CO2 mediated by the enzyme carbonic anhydrase (CA) and direct HCO3− uptake via an anion exchange port). This study is the first to describe the Ci uptake strategies in gametophytes of M. pyrifera, demonstrating that their primary CCM is the extracellular conversion of HCO3− to CO2 mediated by CA. Additionally, our results indicate that decreased pH can positively affect their photosynthetic efficiency and maximum quantum yield; however, this response is dependent on the light and temperature conditions.
Gliding Arc/Glow Discharge for CO2 Conversion: The Role of Discharge Configuration and Gas Channel Thickness
Authors: Lazarova Svetlana , Paunska Tsvetelina , Vasilev Veselin , Tarnev Khristo , Iordanova Snejana , Kolev Stanimir
Published: November 2024

This work investigates CO2 conversion using atmospheric pressure low-current gliding discharges (GD). The following three modifications are studied: classic GD; magnetically accelerated GD (MAGD); and magnetically retarded GD (MRGD). In the latter two, permanent magnets produce a magnetic field that either accelerates or retards the discharge downstream. The gas flow is confined between quartz plates and the electrodes, with varying channel thicknesses. The magnetic configurations improve the performance compared to the classic GD, with up to 30% higher energy efficiency and up to a 50% higher conversion rate. The highest conversion rate is 11–12% with 10% energy efficiency, while the highest efficiency is 40% with 5% conversion, achieved with MRGD and MAGD at channel thicknesses of 2 mm and 3 mm.
Enhanced Thermal Conductivity of Thermoplastic Polyimide Nanocomposites: Effect of Using Hexagonal Nanoparticles
Authors: Nazarychev Victor M.
Published: November 2024

Thermoplastic polyimides have garnered significant interest in the electronic and electrical industries owing to their performance characteristics. However, their relatively low thermal conductivity coefficients pose a challenge. To address this issue, this study focused on the properties of nanocomposites comprising two thermoplastic semicrystalline polyimides R-BAPB and BPDA-P3, one amorphous polyimide ULTEMTM, and hexagonal nanoparticles. Polyimide R-BAPB was synthesized based on 1,3-bis-(3′,4-dicarboxyphenoxy)benzene (dianhydride R) and 4,4′-bis-(4′-aminophenoxy)biphenyl (BAPB diamine); polyimide BPDA-P3 was synthesized based on 3,3′,4,4′-biphenyltetracarboxylic dianhydride (BPDA) and diamine 1,4-bis[4-(4-aminophenoxy)phenoxy]benzene (P3); and amorphous polyimide ULTEMTM was commercially produced by Sabic Innovative Plastics. Using microsecond-scale all-atom molecular dynamics simulations, the effects of incorporating hexagonal nanoparticles with enhanced thermal conductivity, such as graphene, graphene oxide, and boron nitride, on the structural and thermophysical characteristics of these materials were examined. The formation of stacked aggregates was found for graphene and hexagonal boron nitride nanoparticles. It was observed that graphene oxide nanoparticles exhibited a dispersion in polyimide binders that was higher than those in graphene and hexagonal boron nitride nanoparticles, leading to reduced translational mobility of polymer chains. Consequently, the decrease in polyimide chain mobility correlated with an increase in the glass transition temperature of the nanocomposites. Aggregates of nanoparticles formed a pathway for phonon transport, resulting in improved thermal conductivity in polyimide nanocomposites. An increase in the thermal conductivity coefficient of polyimide nanocomposites was observed when the concentration of graphene, graphene oxide, and hexagonal boron nitride nanofillers increased. The enhancement in thermal conductivity was found to be strongest when graphene nanoparticles were added.
Eco-Friendly Castor Oil-Based Composite with High Clam Shell Powder Content
Authors: Weng Fangqing , Jian Kui , Yi Yazhou , Zhang Peirui , Koranteng Ernest , Huang Qing , Liu Jiahui , Zeng Guoping
Published: November 2024

Eco-friendly castor oil-based composites with a high content of clam shell powder were prepared in this study. Biomass composites were prepared by blending castor-oil-based polyurethane prepolymer (COPU) with a filler consisting of high-content clam shell powder (CSP), named CSP-COPU. The structure, microstructure, mechanical properties, and thermal stability of the composites were investigated. The results showed that even at a loading as high as 75 wt.% of the CSP filler, the composite still exhibited good tensile strength and elongation at break. Furthermore, compared with the CSP-COPU composites, TCOS-50 synthesized through blending OH-terminated castor oil-based polyurethane prepolymer (TCOPU) and CSP filler proved that the chemical bond between COPU containing terminal -NCO groups and CSP containing active -OH groups was the key reason to obtaining the composite material with desirable properties. These findings provide prospects for applying biomass-loaded CSP-COPU composites in the packaging industry while contributing to carbon peak achievement and carbon neutrality.
Investigation of Influence of High Pressure on the Design of Deep-Water Horizontal Separator and Droplet Evolution
Authors: Cui Yuehong , Zhang Ming , Wang Haiyan , Yi Hualei , Yang Meng , Hou Lintong , Liu Shuo , Xu Jingyu
Published: November 2024

Under deep-water high-pressure conditions, the multiphase flow characteristics within separators show significant differences compared to conventional separators. When designing subsea separators, it is crucial to consider the impact of pressure to ensure that the design meets the separation objectives while remaining cost effective. This study enhances the theoretical foundations of subsea separator design by analyzing droplet motion behaviors under high pressure and incorporating these influences into a rational design framework. A horizontal separator was designed and integrated into a laboratory-scale separation system for experimental validation. Through the comprehensive testing of separation efficiencies and process dynamics, it was found that increased pressures resulted in a decrease in oil droplet sizes; at pressures exceeding 6 MPa, droplet diameters were observed to drop below 100 μm. This reduction in droplet size extends the required separation time, necessitating larger separator dimensions at higher operational pressures to maintain adequate separation quality. Numerical simulations complement experimental findings by clarifying the underlying separation mechanisms under high-pressure conditions and offering design recommendations for separators deployed in deep-water environments.
Unlocking Economic and Environmental Gains Through Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling for Electric Vehicles
Authors: Chigbu Bianca Ifeoma , Umejesi Ikechukwu
Published: November 2024

Amid South Africa’s shift towards electric vehicles (EVs), building a lithium-ion battery (LIB) recycling sector is essential for promoting sustainable development and generating employment opportunities. This study employs qualitative methodologies to collect insights from 12 critical stakeholders in the automotive, mining, and recycling sectors and academia to examine the feasibility and advantages of establishing such an industry. We implemented purposeful and snowball sampling to guarantee an exhaustive array of viewpoints. Thematic analysis of the interview data reveals that LIB recycling has substantial social, environmental, and economic implications. The results emphasize the pressing necessity of recycling infrastructure to mitigate environmental impacts and attract investment. The economic feasibility and employment potential of LIB recycling is promising despite the early stage of the EV industry in South Africa. These potentials are influenced by EV adoption rates, technological advancements, regulatory frameworks, and industry growth. In this sector, employment opportunities are available in various phases: battery collection, transportation, disassembly, testing, mechanical crushing, hydrometallurgical processes, valuable metal recovery, manufacturing, reuse, research and development, and administrative roles. Each of these roles necessitates a unique set of skills. This interdisciplinary research investigates vital elements of economic growth, employment creation, environmental sustainability, policymaking, technological innovation, and global collaboration. The study offers valuable guidance to policymakers and industry stakeholders trying to establish a sustainable and robust LIB recycling industry in South Africa by utilizing Transition Management Theory to develop a framework for improving the sustainability and circularity of the EV LIB recycling sector.