bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial and Temporal Variations in Soil Organic Matter and Their Influencing Factors in the Songnen and Sanjiang Plains of China (1984–2021)
Authors: Zhao Hongju , Luo Chong , Kong Depiao , Yu Yunfei , Zang Deqiang , Wang Fang
Published: September 2024

Soil organic matter (SOM) is essential for assessing land quality and enhancing soil fertility. Understanding SOM spatial and temporal changes is crucial for sustainable soil management. This study investigates the spatial and temporal variations and influencing factors of SOM content in the Songnen Plain (SNP) and Sanjiang Plain (SJP) of Heilongjiang Province, China, based on high-precision SOC content data (RMSE = 4.84 g/kg−1, R2 = 0.75, RPIQ = 2.43) from 1984 to 2021, with geostatistical analyses and geodetector models. This study aims to quantitatively reveal and compare the long-term spatial and temporal characteristics of SOM changes and their influencing factors across these two plains. The results show that SOM content in both plains has decreased over the past 37 years. In the SNP, the average SOM decreased from 48.61 g/kg to 45.6 g/kg, representing a reduction of 3.01 g/kg, or a 6.10% decrease; SOM decreased spatially from northeast to southwest, covering 63.1% of the area. In the SJP, the average SOM declined from 48.41 g/kg to 44.31 g/kg, a decrease of 4.1 g/kg, or an 8.50% decrease; no pronounced spatial pattern was observed, but the declining area comprises 67.49%. Changing SOM hotspots are concentrated in southern SNP and central and northwestern SJP, showing clear heterogeneity across counties. Geodetector model analysis indicates annual mean temperature as the primary driver of SOM variations in SNP; while elevation is the main driver in SJP, the combined explanatory power of multiple factors surpasses individual ones. There is a positive correlation between SOM and temperature in SNP, and policy protection positively influences SOM in both plains. These findings provide insights into the differential protection of SOM in SNP and SJP.
Health Impacts of Biophilic Design from a Multisensory Interaction Perspective: Empirical Evidence, Research Designs, and Future Directions
Authors: Yin Jie , Zhu Haoyue , Yuan Jing
Published: September 2024

Biophilic design introduces a variety of sensory elements into the built environment, incorporating a natural experience into daily life. From the environmental psychology aspect, the effects of multisensory stimulus are not a result of simply adding the effects of uni-sensory stimuli, and the interactive effects among sensory approaches need to be considered. With the demand for promoting health and well-being, increasing numbers of studies began to investigate sensory systems other than just the visual cue of the biophilic design. This review focuses on the multisensory effect of biophilic design on human psychological and physiological responses as well as cognitive function. We summarized empirical evidence of the interactions between two and three sensory modalities from existing research. In addition, we systematically summarized the key methods and technologies used in experimental studies that explore the health benefits of biophilic design in terms of study types and population, environmental exposure simulation, health benefit measurement, and experimental process design. We finally identified some knowledge gaps in and future directions for biophilic design studies from the multisensory interaction perspective. The experimental design of quantifying the effects of multisensory interaction and its lasting effects are the focus of future research.
Through Smoke to Policy: Framing the EU Forest Fire Policy Landscape
Authors: Aggestam Filip
Published: September 2024

The global community is grappling with a significant increase in forest fires’ frequency, size, and intensity, presenting a profound challenge. To complement existing framing literature on forest fires, this paper examines collective frames applied to forest fires in a broader EU context. Employing a content analysis covering 354 EU policy documents—spanning both soft (non-legally binding) and hard (legally binding) policy documents—via the use of Atlas.ti, six collective frames on forest fires are outlined, identifying four as particularly dominant: ‘climate adaptation and resilience’, ‘risk mitigation and protective governance’, ‘agriculture and rural development’, and ‘technocratic perspectives on forest fires’. These frames capture dominant perspectives promoted within specific policy domains, such as energy and agriculture. Despite the diverse approaches to framing forest fires and their varied objectives, a common thread connects the narratives in these documents, namely, the central theme of ‘risk’. Whether it emerges in the context of reporting or as part of a call to action for adopting certain EU measures, the use of risk operates as a narrative device that negatively frames the discourse, consistently employed to call for action. The findings underscore the importance of considering communication strategies surrounding forest fires, particularly in light of their implications for forest governance.
A Comprehensive Accounting of Carbon Emissions and Carbon Sinks of China’s Agricultural Sector
Authors: Wang Yufei , Liang Shuang , Liang Yuxin , Liu Xiaoxue
Published: September 2024

Comprehensive accounting of carbon emissions and carbon sinks in the agricultural sector is crucial for China to achieve its carbon neutrality goal as early as possible. This paper develops a comprehensive and scientific accounting system to recalculate China’s agriculture sector’s carbon emissions and sinks from 1995 to 2020, taking into account both resource inputs and productive activities. Subsequently, the STIRPAT model is employed to predict alterations in carbon emissions and sinks across different scenarios. The results show that energy consumption, chemical inputs, and farmland soil management have surpassed livestock and poultry breeding as the main contributors to agricultural carbon emissions. Furthermore, this paper classifies 31 provinces in China into five distinct types based on the variations in agricultural carbon emissions and carbon sinks. These types include carbon sink-dominated regions, paddy planting-dominated regions, livestock farming-dominated regions, resource inputs-dominated regions, and composite factor-dominated regions. In addition, the extent of agricultural technology and the magnitude of agricultural development are the key factors impacting China’s agricultural carbon emissions and carbon sinks, respectively. Prior to 2045, agricultural carbon emissions must be directly reduced as much as possible, and their source must be controlled; following that year, the role of carbon sequestration will become more prominent, and the active development of agricultural carbon sinks will be more beneficial in achieving agricultural carbon neutrality.
Expression Changes of miRNAs in Humans and Animal Models of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Their Potential Application for Clinical Diagnosis
Authors: Wang Ruili , Chen Liang , Zhang Yuning , Sun Bo , Liang Mengyao
Published: September 2024

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a severe motor neuron disease. Current detection methods can only confirm the diagnosis at the onset of the disease, missing the critical window for early treatment. Recent studies using animal models have found that detecting changes in miRNA sites can predict the onset and severity of the disease in its early stages, facilitating early diagnosis and treatment. miRNAs show expression changes in motor neurons that connect the brain, spinal cord, and brain stem, as well as in the skeletal muscle in mouse models of ALS. Clinically, expression changes in some miRNAs in patients align with those in mouse models, such as the upregulation of miR-29b in the brain and the upregulation of miR-206 in the skeletal muscle. This study provides an overview of some miRNA study findings in humans as well as in animal models, including SOD1, FUS, TDP-43, and C9orf72 transgenic mice and wobbler mice, highlighting the potential of miRNAs as diagnostic markers for ALS. miR-21 and miR-206 are aberrantly expressed in both mouse model and patient samples, positioning them as key potential diagnostic markers in ALS. Additionally, miR-29a, miR-29b, miR-181a, and miR-142-3p have shown aberrant expression in both types of samples and show promise as clinical targets for ALS. Finally, miR-1197 and miR-486b-5p have been recently identified as aberrantly expressed miRNAs in mouse models for ALS, although further studies are needed to determine their viability as diagnostic targets.
COVID-19 Prevention and Treatment—2nd Edition
Authors: De Francia Silvia , Di Grazia Daniela , Caudana Maura , Allegra Sarah
Published: September 2024

We have learned that the story of COVID-19 is not so simple [...]
Shape Memory Alloys for Self-Centering Seismic Applications: A Review on Recent Advancements
Authors: Costanza Girolamo , Mercuri Samuel , Porroni Ilaria , Tata Maria Elisa
Published: September 2024

Shape memory alloys (SMAs) have emerged as promising materials for self-centering seismic applications due to their unique properties of superelasticity and shape memory effect. This review article examines recent advancements in the use of SMAs for self-centering seismic devices, focusing on their mechanical properties, damping characteristics and applications in structural engineering. The fundamental principles of SMAs are discussed, including their phase transformations and hysteretic behavior, and their performance under various loading conditions is analyzed. The article also explores different SMA-based damping systems, with a particular emphasis on innovative self-centering friction dampers. Furthermore, the influence of factors such as alloy composition, heat treatment and loading parameters on the seismic performance of SMA devices is investigated. The review concludes by highlighting the potential of SMAs in improving the seismic resilience of structures and identifying future research directions in this field.
Research on Dynamic Modelling, Characteristics and Vibration Reduction Application of Hot Rolling Mills Considering the Rolling Process
Authors: Lu Zhiwen , Zhou Duolong , Yu Danfeng , Xiao Han
Published: September 2024

The impact of rolling mill vibration extends beyond product quality to equipment health, making vibration control crucial. This study addresses the issue of frequent abnormal vibration in hot strip finishing mills by employing a combination of theory, simulation, and experimentation to analyze the dynamic behavior of the mill and apply findings to on-site vibration suppression. Initially, a torsional-vertical-horizontal coupled dynamic model for the rolling mill has been developed, taking into account the rolling process. The accuracy of this model is established through both finite element simulations and actual experiments. Subsequently, the vibration characteristics of the rolling mill system are investigated under typical process parameters utilizing the established dynamic model. The results reveal that the vibration amplitude notably escalates with the increase of rolling reduction rate and rolling speed, and the difference in front and rear tension has little impact on the mill’s vibration. Furthermore, an increase in the temperature of the rolled piece reduces the overall vibration amplitude, and harder material results in greater overall mill vibration. Lastly, abnormal vibration in the F2 finishing mill at a hot rolling plant is effectively mitigated by reducing rolling reduction rate, which further validates the correctness of the findings.
First Utilization of Magnetically-Assisted Photocatalytic Iron Oxide-TiO2 Nanocomposites for the Degradation of the Problematic Antibiotic Ciprofloxacin in an Aqueous Environment
Authors: Radić Josip , Žerjav Gregor , Jurko Lucija , Bošković Perica , Fras Zemljič Lidija , Vesel Alenka , Mavrič Andraž , Gudelj Martina , Plohl Olivija
Published: September 2024

The emergence of antimicrobial resistance due to antibiotics in the environment presents significant public health, economic, and societal risks. This study addresses the need for effective strategies to reduce antibiotic residues, focusing on ciprofloxacin degradation. Magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (IO NPs), approximately 13 nm in size, were synthesized and functionalized with branched polyethyleneimine (bPEI) to obtain a positive charge. These IO-bPEI NPs were combined with negatively charged titanium dioxide NPs (TiO2@CA) to form magnetically photocatalytic IO-TiO2 nanocomposites. Characterization techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), infrared spectroscopy (IR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), electrokinetic measurements, and a vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), confirmed the successful formation and properties of the nanocomposites. The nanocomposites exhibited a high specific surface area, reduced mobility of photogenerated charge carriers, and enhanced photocatalytic properties. Testing the photocatalytic potential of IO-TiO2 with ciprofloxacin in water under UV-B light achieved up to 70% degradation in 150 min, with a degradation rate of 0.0063 min−1. The nanocomposite was magnetically removed after photocatalysis and successfully regenerated for reuse. These findings highlight the potential of IO-TiO2 nanocomposites for reducing ciprofloxacin levels in wastewater, helping curb antibiotic resistance.
Class-Aware Self- and Cross-Attention Network for Few-Shot Semantic Segmentation of Remote Sensing Images
Authors: Liang Guozhen , Xie Fengxi , Chien Ying-Ren
Published: September 2024

Few-Shot Semantic Segmentation (FSS) has drawn massive attention recently due to its remarkable ability to segment novel-class objects given only a handful of support samples. However, current FSS methods mainly focus on natural images and pay little attention to more practical and challenging scenarios, e.g., remote sensing image segmentation. In the field of remote sensing image analysis, the characteristics of remote sensing images, like complex backgrounds and tiny foreground objects, make novel-class segmentation challenging. To cope with these obstacles, we propose a Class-Aware Self- and Cross-Attention Network (CSCANet) for FSS in remote sensing imagery, consisting of a lightweight self-attention module and a supervised prior-guided cross-attention module. Concretely, the self-attention module abstracts robust unseen-class information from support features, while the cross-attention module generates a superior quality query attention map for directing the network to focus on novel objects. Experiments demonstrate that our CSCANet achieves outstanding performance on the standard remote sensing FSS benchmark iSAID-5i, surpassing the existing state-of-the-art FSS models across all combinations of backbone networks and K-shot settings.
Reinforcement Learning-Based Network Dismantling by Targeting Maximum-Degree Nodes in the Giant Connected Component
Authors: Liu Shixuan , Pu Tianle , Zeng Li , Wang Yunfei , Cheng Haoxiang , Liu Zhong
Published: September 2024

Tackling the intricacies of network dismantling in complex systems poses significant challenges. This task has relevance across various practical domains, yet traditional approaches focus primarily on singular metrics, such as the number of nodes in the Giant Connected Component (GCC) or the average pairwise connectivity. In contrast, we propose a unique metric that concurrently targets nodes with the highest degree and reduces the GCC size. Given the NP-hard nature of optimizing this metric, we introduce MaxShot, an innovative end-to-end solution that leverages graph representation learning and reinforcement learning. Through comprehensive evaluations on both synthetic and real-world datasets, our method consistently outperforms leading benchmarks in accuracy and efficiency. These results highlight MaxShot’s potential as a superior approach to effectively addressing the network dismantling problem.
Random Generation Topology Coding Technique in Asymmetric Topology Encryption
Authors: Su Jing , Yao Bing
Published: September 2024

The security of traditional public key cryptography algorithms depends on the difficulty of the underlying mathematical problems. Asymmetric topological encryption is a graph-dependent encryption algorithm produced to resist attacks by quantum computers on these mathematical problems. The security of this encryption algorithm depends on two types of NP-complete problems: subgraph isomorphism and graph coloring. Topological coding technology refers to the technology of generating key strings or topology signature strings through topological coding graphs. We take odd-graceful labeling and set-ordered odd-graceful labeling as limiting functions, and propose two kinds of topological coding generation technique, which we call the random leaf-adding operation and randomly adding edge-removing operation. Through these two techniques, graphs of the same scale and larger scales can be generated with the same type of labeling so as to derive more number strings, expand the key space, and analyze the topology and property of the generated graphs.
Predictive Factors of Transient Urinary Incontinence Following Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP): Single-Center Experience
Authors: Coman Roxana Andra , Bschleipfer Thomas , Al Hajjar Nadim , Petrut Bogdan
Published: September 2024

Background and Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the predictive factors associated with transient urine incontinence (TUI) following holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP). Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on a prospectively maintained database containing the first 149 consecutive HoLEP cases between June 2022 and December 2023. The study recorded several patient characteristics, and preoperative data such as IPSS score, total gland volume, preoperative catheterization, Qmax, and PVR volume were collected. During the operation, data on total operating time, enucleation time, morcellation time, and weight of enucleated tissue were recorded. Finally, postoperative data were also documented. TUI refers to a patient’s complaint of urine leakage, irrespective of type. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to determine factors that predict TUI. Results: The study included 119 patients with BPH. Nineteen (15.96%) of them experienced postoperative TUI. Of those 19 patients, 15 (78.94%) recovered within three months from the date of the surgery. In the multivariate regression analysis, increased age (odds ratio [OR], 3.47; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.56~7.78; p = 0.002), prostate volume ≥ 100 mL (OR 1.86; 95% CI 1.54–2.13; p = 0.001), preoperative PVR volume ≥ 250 mL (OR 1.22; 95% CI 1.10–1.32; p = 0.02), preoperative catheterization (OR, 0.56; 95% CI 0.34–0.78; p = 0.003), increased operation time (OR, 3.87; 95% CI 1.62–4.19; p = 0.002), and resected tissue weight ≥ 40 g (OR, 1.032; 95% CI, 1.015–1.048; p = 0.002) were found to be independent predictors of TUI. Conclusions: The incidence of TUI following HoLEP was found to be 15.96% in patients, with a recovery rate of 78.94% within three months post-surgery. Predictive factors for TUI included age at surgery, prostatic volume, preoperative catheterization, high PVR, longer operative time, and resected tissue weight.
Effect of Laser Beam Overlap Rate on Mechanical Properties of Aluminum Alloy Arc Welding with Laser Peening
Authors: Jeon Jae-Ook , Yun Ye-Sol , Song Moo-Keun , Kim Pyeong-Soo , Kim Jong-Do
Published: September 2024

This study aims to investigate the effect of the laser beam overlap rate on the mechanical properties of Al3003 aluminum alloy arc weldment with laser peening. To determine the optimal laser beam overlap rate for laser peening of the weldment, peening experiments were conducted on bead-welded and butt-welded specimens with varying overlap rates, and the effect of the beam overlap rate was analyzed. As the overlap rate increased, the residual stress changed from tensile to compressive, with the highest level of compressive residual stress at the overlap rate of 75%. Laser peening was performed on the aluminum weldment of the prototype, applying the optimal peening conditions identified earlier. As a result of comparing the residual stress, hardness, and tensile strength of the weld before and after laser peening, it was found that the tensile residual stress in the weldment was improved to a compressive residual stress of about −50 MPa or more. The hardness and tensile strength of the weld increased after peening, and the mechanical properties were also improved.
Isolation and Characterization of Plant-Growth-Promoting Bacteria Associated with Salvinia auriculata Aublet
Authors: Goulart Jussara Tamires de Souza Silva , Quintanilha-Peixoto Gabriel , Esteves Bruno dos Santos , de Souza Suzane Ariadina , Lopes Pollyanna Santiago , da Silva Nathália Duarte , Soares Julia Ribeiro , Barroso Laura Mathias , Suzuki Marina Satika , Intorne Aline Chaves
Published: September 2024

Salvinia auriculata Aublet is a floating aquatic plant, capable of absorbing the excess of nutrients and water contaminants and can be used in effluent treatment plants. The ability to survive in degraded areas may be related to the association with beneficial bacteria capable of promoting plant growth. However, little is known about the microbiota associated with this aquatic plant and its potential application to the aquatic environment. In this sense, this work aims to identify bacteria associated with S. auriculata that could be able to promote plant growth. Eighteen bacterial strains were identified by sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene, belonging to the genera Agrobacterium, Bacillus, Curtobacterium, Enterobacter, Pseudomonas, Siccibacter, and Stenotrophomonas. All isolates produced indole compounds, 12 fixed N2, and 16 solubilized phosphate. A new strain of Enterobacter (sp 3.1.3.0.X.18) was selected for inoculation into S. auriculata. For this purpose, 500 mL of nutrient solution and 1 g of the plant were used in the control and inoculated conditions. Enterobacter inoculation promoted a significant increase (p ≤ 0.05) in fresh plant biomass (17%) after 4 days of cultivation. In summary, the present study characterized 18 plant-growth-promoting bacteria isolated from S. auriculata with potential for biotechnological application, such as the production of bioinoculants or biomass resources, to protect or improve plant growth under conditions of stress.
Toxoplasma gondii Seropositivity and Co-Infection with TORCH Complex Pathogens in Pregnant Women from Araçatuba, Brazil
Authors: Firmino Sabrina Santos , Santos-Doni Thaís Rabelo , Silva Vitória Maria Farias , Micheleto Aressa Cassemiro , de Souza Ma Scalise , Hortêncio Bruna Lima , Benitez Aline do Nascimento , Bento Yasmin Melim , Debortoli Gabriele Zaine Teixeira , Gomes Jancarlo Ferreira , Navarro Italmar Teodorico , Bresciani Katia Denise Saraiva
Published: September 2024

This study examined the seropositivity of T. gondii and coinfections with other TORCH pathogens among pregnant women attending 17 Basic Health Units (UBS) in Araçatuba, SP, Brazil. Of the 711 pregnant women seen at these UBS, only 297 were tested for T. gondii. Of the women tested for T. gondii (n = 297), 26.9% had IgG antibodies, 6.7% had IgM, and 32.0% tested positive for either or both. Only 1.4% showed both IgG and IgM antibodies, while 67.7% were non-reactive. The seropositivity was 17.1% for syphilis, 63.2% for rubella, 0.9% for hepatitis C, 0.9% for dengue, 17.9% for COVID-19, and 0.9% for herpes simplex (types 1/2). Coinfections with syphilis, rubella, and herpes simplex were also noted. Higher education levels appeared to protect against T. gondii seropositivity. The findings highlight a significant prevalence of T. gondii among pregnant women, with variation across UBSs, pointing to socioeconomic, behavioral, and environmental factors as influential. We also observed co-occurrence with other infections, such as syphilis, rubella, and herpes simplex. The study underscores the need for targeted public health interventions to reduce the risks of congenital infections.
Metarhizium-Inoculated Coffee Seeds Promote Plant Growth and Biocontrol of Coffee Leaf Miner
Authors: Martins Jéssica Letícia Abreu , Franzin Mayara Loss , Ferreira Douglas da Silva , Magina Larissa Cristina Rocha , Martins Elem Fialho , Mendonça Laís Viana Paes , Neves Wânia dos Santos , Pallini Angelo , Valicente Fernando Hercos , Schmidt Jason M. , Elliot Simon Luke , Venzon Madelaine
Published: September 2024

Metarhizium (Hypocreales: Clavicipitaceae) has a multifunctional life cycle, establishing as a plant endophyte and acting as entomopathogenic fungi. Metarhizium robertsii and Metarhizium brunneum can be associated with coffee plants and provide enhanced protection against a major pest of coffee, the coffee leaf miner (CLM) (Leucoptera coffeella). This association would be an easily deployable biological control option. Here we tested the potential of inoculating coffee seeds with M. robertsii and M. brunneum collected from the soil of coffee crops in the Cerrado (Brazil) for control of the CLM and the enhancement of plant growth with a commonly used fungicide. We conducted the experiment in a greenhouse and after the seedlings grew, we placed them in a cage with two couples of CLMs. We evaluated the CLM development time, reproduction, and plant growth traits. We observed a longer development time of CLMs when fed on plants inoculated with both isolates. In addition, the CLMs laid fewer eggs compared to those fed on plants without fungal inoculation. Plant growth was promoted when seeds were inoculated with fungi, and the fungicide did not affect any evaluated parameter. Coffee seed inoculation with M. robertsii and M. brunneum appears to provide protection against CLMs and promote growth improvement.
Synthesis of Tellurium Nanoparticles Using Moringa oleifera Extract, and Their Antibacterial and Antibiofilm Effects against Bacterial Pathogens
Authors: Ao Bo , Jiang Honglin , Cai Xuan , Liu Decheng , Tu Junming , Shi Xiaoshan , Wang Yanxiang , He Fei , Lv Jing , Li Jingjing , Hu Yuanliang , Xia Xian , Hou Jianjun
Published: September 2024

Today, pathogenic microorganisms are increasingly developing resistance to conventional drugs, necessitating the exploration of alternative strategies. In addressing this challenge, nano-based antibacterial agents offer a promising avenue of research. In the present study, we used an extract of Moringa oleifera, a widely recognized edible and medicinal plant, to synthesize biogenetic tellurium nanoparticles (Bio-TeNPs). Transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and dynamic light scattering analyses revealed that the obtained Bio-TeNPs had diameters between 20 and 50 nm, and zeta potential values of 23.7 ± 3.3 mV. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy revealed that the Bio-TeNPs consisted primarily of Te(0), along with some organic constituents. Remarkably, these Bio-TeNPs exhibited potent antibacterial activity against a spectrum of pathogens, including Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Shigella dysenteriae, Salmonella typhimurium, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Streptococcus agalactiae. In addition, findings from growth curve experiments, live/dead cell staining, and scanning electron microscopy observations of cell morphology demonstrated that Bio-TeNPs at a concentration of 0.07 mg/mL effectively disrupted E. coli and K. pneumoniae cells, leading to cell rupture or shrinkage. The biofilm inhibition rates of 0.7 mg/mL Bio-TeNPs against E. coli and K. pneumoniae reached 92% and 90%, respectively. In addition, 7 mg/mL Bio-TeNPs effectively eradicated E. coli from the surfaces of glass slides, with a 100% clearance rate. These outcomes underscore the exceptional antibacterial efficacy of Bio-TeNPs and highlight their potential as promising nanomaterials for combating bacterial infections.
Synthesis and Characterization of Silver Nanoparticles Stabilized with Biosurfactant and Application as an Antimicrobial Agent
Authors: Lima Bruna G. A. , Silva Renata Raianny , Meira Hugo M. , Durval Italo J. B. , Macedo Bezerra Filho Clovis , Silva Thayse A. L. , Sarubbo Leonie A. , Luna Juliana Moura
Published: September 2024

Surfactants can be used as nanoparticle stabilizing agents. However, since synthetic surfactants are not economically viable and environmentally friendly, biosurfactants are emerging as a green alternative for the synthesis and stabilization of nanoparticles. Nanoparticles have been applied in several areas of industry, such as the production of biomedical and therapeutic components, packaging coating, solar energy generation and transmission and distribution of electrical energy, among others. The aim of this study was to synthesize, in a simple and green way, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using the biosurfactant produced by Candida lipolytica UCP 0899 as a stabilizer. AgNPs were examined and morphologically characterized using the techniques of ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV–visible), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), zeta potential and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). Newly formed silver nanoparticles showed a maximum UV–visible absorption peak at 400 nm, while a shift to 410 nm was observed in those stored for 120 days. SEM micrograph confirmed the formation of nanoparticles with an average size of 20 nm and with a predominant spherical structure, while a zeta potential of −60 mV suggested that the use of the biosurfactant promoted their stability. Stabilized nanoparticles were tested for their antimicrobial activity against bacterial isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Enterobacter sp., as well as fungal isolates of Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger. At a concentration of 16.50 µg/mL, AgNPs inhibited the growth of all target microorganisms according to the following decreasing order: E. coli (95%), S. aureus, C. albicans (90%), A. niger (85%), Enterobacter sp. (75%) and P. aeruginosa (71%). These results suggest the potential use of the biosurfactant as a stabilizer of silver nanoparticles as an antimicrobial agent in different industrial sectors. Furthermore, the in vivo toxicity potential of biosurfactants was evaluated using the Tenebrio molitor model. The larvae were treated with concentrations in the range of 2.5, 5.0 and 10 g/L, and no mortality was observed within the 24 to 72 h period, demonstrating non-toxicity within the tested concentration range. These findings support the safety, efficacy and non-toxicity of biosurfactant-stabilized nanoparticles.
Biosensing Technologies for Detecting Legionella in Environmental Samples: A Systematic Review
Authors: Screpis Giuseppe Andrea , Aleo Andrea , Privitera Natalia , Capuano Giuseppe Emanuele , Farina Roberta , Corso Domenico , Libertino Sebania , Coniglio Maria Anna
Published: September 2024

The detection of Legionella in environmental samples, such as water, is crucial for public health monitoring and outbreak prevention. Although effective, traditional detection methods, including culture-based techniques and polymerase chain reaction, have limitations such as long processing times, trained operators, and the need for specialized laboratory equipment. Biosensing technologies offer a promising alternative due to their rapid, sensitive, cost-effectiveness, and on-site detection capabilities. To summarize the current advancements in biosensor development for detecting Legionella in environmental samples, we used ‘Legionella’ AND ‘biosensors’ NEAR ‘environmental samples’ OR ‘water’ as keywords searching through the most relevant biomedical databases for research articles. After removing duplicates and inadequate articles from the n.1268 records identified using the PRISMA methodology exclusion criteria, we selected n.65 full-text articles which suited the inclusion criteria. Different results between the studies describing the current biosensing techniques, including optical, electrochemical, magnetic, and mass-sensitive sensors were observed. For each biosensing technique, sensitivity, specificity, and detection limits were evaluated. Furthermore, the integration of nanomaterials, microfluidics, and portable devices in biosensor systems’ design were discussed, highlighting their role in enhancing detection performance. The potential challenges and future directions in the field of Legionella biosensing were also addressed, providing insights into the feasibility of implementing these technologies in routine environmental monitoring. Undoubtedly, biosensors can play a crucial role in the early detection and management of Legionella infections and outbreaks, ultimately protecting public health and safety.
A Novel Ternary Catalyst PW4@MOF-808@SBA-15 for Deep Extraction Oxidation Desulfurization of Model Diesel
Authors: Gao Yan , Huang Shuai , Han Nina , Zhao Jianshe
Published: September 2024

In this work, a novel heterogeneous catalyst consisting of peroxophosphotungstate, microporous MOF-808, and mesoporous SBA-15 was synthesized, characterized, and used to remove sulfides from model fuel. The prepared material, PW4@MOF-808@SBA-15, exhibits excellent catalytic activity with a desulfurization efficiency of 99.8% in 60 min for multicomponent simulated fuel, and the desulfurization rate can reach more than 90% after ten consecutive cycles. The excellent catalytic activity and reusability are attributed to the hierarchically porous hybrid material MOF-808@SBA-15, which can effectively encapsulate PW4 and provide a site for the oxidation of sulfides.
Experimental Study for the Sorption and Diffusion of Supercritical Carbon Dioxide into Polyetherimide
Authors: Huang Wei-Heng , Chen Pei-Hua , Chen Chin-Wen , Su Chie-Shaan , Tang Muoi , Tsai Jung-Chin , Chen Yan-Ping , Lin Feng-Huei
Published: September 2024

Supercritical carbon dioxide (SCCO2) is a non-toxic and environmentally friendly fluid and has been used in polymerization reactions, processing, foaming, and plasticizing of polymers. Exploring the behavior and data of SCCO2 sorption and dissolution in polymers provides essential information for polymer applications. This study investigated the sorption and diffusion of SCCO2 into polyetherimide (PEI). The sorption and desorption processes of SCCO2 in PEI samples were measured in the temperature range from 40 to 60 °C, the pressure range from 20 to 40 MPa, and the sorption time from 0.25 to 52 h. This study used the ex situ gravimetric method under different operating conditions and applied the Fickian diffusion model to determine the mass diffusivity of SCCO2 during sorption and desorption processes into and out of PEI. The equilibrium mass gain fraction of SCCO2 into PEI was reported from 9.0 wt% (at 60 °C and 20 MPa) to 12.8 wt% (at 40 °C and 40 MPa). The sorption amount increased with the increasing SCCO2 pressure and decreased with the increasing SCCO2 temperature. This study showed the crossover phenomenon of equilibrium mass gain fraction isotherms with respect to SCCO2 density. Changes in the sorption mechanism in PEI were observed when the SCCO2 density was at approximately 840 kg/m3. This study qualitatively performed FTIR analysis during the SCCO2 desorption process. A CO2 antisymmetric stretching mode was observed near a wavenumber of 2340 cm−1. A comparison of loss modulus measurements of pure and SCCO2-treated PEI specimens showed the shifting of loss maxima. This result showed that the plasticization of PEI was achieved through the sorption process of SCCO2.
Metabolomic Analysis of Carotenoids Biosynthesis by Sphingopyxis sp. USTB-05
Authors: Liu Chao , Xu Qianqian , Liu Yang , Song Meijie , Cao Xiaoyu , Du Xinyue , Yan Hai
Published: September 2024

Carotenoids belonging to the class of tetraterpenoids have extensive applications in medicine, food, nutrition, cosmetics, and feed. Among them, lutein and zeaxanthin can prevent macular degeneration in the elderly, which is very important for protecting vision. Here, we introduce the first metabolomic analysis of Sphingopyxis sp. USTB-05, aiming to shed light on the biosynthesis of carotenoids. Sphingopyxis sp. USTB-05 has the complete methylerythritol 4-phosphate (MEP) pathway and carotenoid biosynthesis pathway, especially involved in the bioconversion of zeaxanthin, violaxanthin, and astaxanthin. Metabolomic profiling identified seven carotenes and six xanthophylls synthesized by Sphingopyxis sp. USTB-05. Zeaxanthin, in particular, was found to be the most abundant, with a content of 37.1 µg/g dry cells. Collectively, the results presented herein greatly enhance our understanding of Sphingopyxis sp. USTB-05 in carotenoids biosynthesis, and thus further accelerate its fundamental molecular investigations and biotechnological applications.
Computational and Experimental Comparison of Molecularly Imprinted Polymers Prepared by Different Functional Monomers—Quantitative Parameters Defined Based on Molecular Dynamics Simulation
Authors: Yuan Jing , Gao Ying , Tian Xinzhuo , Su Wenhao , Su Yuxin , Niu Shengli , Meng Xiangying , Jia Tong , Yin Ronghuan , Hu Jianmin
Published: September 2024

Background: In recent years, the advancement of computational chemistry has offered new insights into the rational design of molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs). From this aspect, our study tried to give quantitative parameters for evaluating imprinting efficiency and exploring the formation mechanism of MIPs by combining simulation and experiments. Methods: The pre-polymerization system of sulfadimethoxine (SDM) was investigated using a combination of quantum chemical (QC) calculations and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. MIPs were prepared on the surface of silica gel by a surface-initiated supplemental activator and reducing agent atom transfer radical polymerization (SI-SARA ATRP). Results: The results of the QC calculations showed that carboxylic monomers exhibited higher bonding energies with template molecules than carboxylic ester monomers. MD simulations confirmed the hydrogen bonding sites predicted by QC calculations. Furthermore, it was observed that only two molecules of monomers could bind up to one molecule of SDM, even when the functional monomer ratio was up to 10. Two quantitative parameters, namely, the effective binding number (EBN) and the maximum hydrogen bond number (HBNMax), were defined. Higher values of EBN and HBNMax indicated a higher effective binding efficiency. Hydrogen bond occupancies and RDF analysis were performed to analyze the hydrogen bond formation between the template and the monomer from different perspectives. Furthermore, under the influence of the EBN and collision probability of the template and the monomers, the experimental results show that the optimal molar ratio of template to monomer is 1:3. Conclusions: The method of monomer screening presented in this study can be extended to future investigations of pre-polymerization systems involving different templates and monomers.
Recent Advances in Synthesis and Applications of Calixarene Derivatives Endowed with Anticancer Activity
Authors: Wojaczyńska Elżbieta , Ostrowska Marta , Lower Małgorzata , Czyżyk Natalia , Jakieła Anna , Marra Alberto
Published: September 2024

Calix[n]arenes, macrocycles constituted of 4–8 phenol moieties linked through methylene bridges, are stable molecules that can be selectively functionalised at the upper or lower rim. It has already been demonstrated that calixarene derivatives can be biologically or pharmacologically active compounds. More recently, suitably functionalised calixarenes and calixarene analogues (dihomooxacalixarenes, thiacalixarenes, calix[4]resorcinols, azacalixarenes, calixpyrroles, and pillarenes) were found to act as anticancer agents, at least in in vitro assays. We are reporting on the latest progress in this research field.
Naturally Occurring Xanthones and Their Biological Implications
Authors: Oriola Ayodeji O. , Kar Pallab
Published: September 2024

Xanthones are chemical substances in higher plants, marine organisms, and lower microorganisms. The most prevalent naturally occurring sources of xanthones are those belonging to the families Caryophyllaceae, Guttiferae, and Gentianaceae. Structurally, xanthones (9H xanthan-9-one) are heterocyclic compounds with oxygen and a γ-pyrone component. They are densely packed with a two-benzene ring structure. The carbons in xanthones are numbered from their nucleus and biosynthetic construct. They have mixed shikimate-acetate (higher plants) and acetate-malonate (lower organisms) biosynthetic origins, which influence their classification. Based on the level of oxidation of the C-ring, they are classified into monomers, dimers, and heterodimers. While based on the level of oxygenation or the type of ring residue, they can be categorized into mono-, di-, tri-, tetra-, penta- and hexa-oxygenated xanthones, bis-xanthones, prenylated and related xanthones, xanthonolignoids, and other miscellaneous xanthones. This structural diversity has made xanthones exhibit considerable biological properties as promising antioxidant, antifungal, antimicrobial, and anticancer agents. Structure-activity relationship studies suggest C-1, C-3, C-6, and C-8 as the key positions that influence the biological activity of xanthones. Furthermore, the presence of functional groups, such as prenyl, hydroxyl, glycosyl, furan, and pyran, at the key positions of xanthones, may contribute to their spectrum of biological activity. The unique chemical scaffolds of xanthones, their notable biological activities, and the structure–activity relationships of some lead molecules were discussed to identify lead molecules as possible drug candidates.
Effect of Oriented External Electric Fields on the Electronic Properties of Linear Acenes: A Thermally Assisted Occupation DFT Study
Authors: Chen Chi-Yu , Chai Jeng-Da
Published: September 2024

Recently, oriented external electric fields (OEEFs) have earned much attention due to the possibility of tuning the properties of electronic systems. From a theoretical perspective, one can resort to electronic structure calculations to understand how the direction and strength of OEEFs affect the properties of electronic systems. However, for multi-reference (MR) systems, calculations employing the popular Kohn–Sham density functional theory with the traditional semilocal and hybrid exchange–correlation energy functionals can yield erroneous results. Owing to its decent compromise between accuracy and efficiency for MR systems at the nanoscale (i.e., MR nanosystems), in this study, thermally assisted occupation density functional theory (TAO-DFT) is adopted to explore the electronic properties of n-acenes (n = 2–10), containing n linearly fused benzene rings, in OEEFs, where the OEEFs of various electric field strengths are applied along the long axes of n-acenes. According to our TAO-DFT calculations, the ground states of n-acenes in OEEFs are singlets for all the cases examined. The effect of OEEFs is shown to be significant on the vertical ionization potentials and vertical electron affinities of ground-state n-acenes with odd-number fused benzene rings. Moreover, the MR character of ground-state n-acenes in OEEFs increases with the increase in the acene length and/or the electric field strength.
Efficient Collaborative Edge Computing for Vehicular Network Using Clustering Service
Authors: Al-Allawee Ali , Lorenz Pascal , Munther Alhamza
Published: September 2024

Internet of Vehicles applications are known to be critical and time-sensitive. The value proposition of edge computing comprises its lower latency, advantageous bandwidth consumption, privacy, management, efficiency of treatments, and mobility, which aim to improve vehicular and traffic services. Successful stories have been observed between IoV and edge computing to support smooth mobility and the use of local resources. However, vehicle travel, especially due to high-speed movement and intersections, can result in IoV devices losing connection and/or processing with high latency. This paper proposes a Cluster Collaboration Vehicular Edge Computing (CCVEC) framework that aims to guarantee and enhance the connectivity between vehicle sensors and the cloud by utilizing the edge computing paradigm in the middle. The objectives are achieved by utilizing the cluster management strategies deployed between cloud and edge computing servers. The framework is implemented in OpenStack cloud servers and evaluated by measuring the throughput, latency, and memory parameters in two different scenarios. The results obtained show promising indications in terms of latency (approximately 390 ms of the ideal status) and throughput (30 kB/s) values, and thus appears acceptable in terms of performance as well as memory.
Effects of Soil Sucrose Application on Biological Nitrogen Fixation and Aboveground Biomass Production in Leguminous Cover Crops
Authors: Berriel Verónica
Published: September 2024

The use of cover crops (CCs) based on tropical legumes, including Crotalaria ochroleuca, Crotalaria juncea, Crotalaria spectabilis, and Cajanus cajan, represents a pivotal aspect of agricultural rotations. These crops facilitate the incorporation of nitrogen through biological nitrogen fixation (BNF), thereby reducing the necessity for synthetic nitrogen fertilizers. Nevertheless, the capacity for the BNF of these species in Uruguay is relatively modest. To address this limitation, an approach is proposed that involves the immobilization of nitrogen in the soil using a highly energetic material, such as sucrose. The objective of this study was to examine the impact of incorporating sucrose into typical Uruguayan soil on aboveground dry matter production, nitrogen accumulation, and nitrogen fixation by legumes utilized as CCs. The experiments involved the planting of C. ochroleuca, C. juncea, C. spectabilis, and C. cajan in pots containing either soil alone or soil mixed with sucrose and the subsequent maintenance of these in a plant growth chamber for a period of 90 days. The addition of sucrose had a positive impact, with nearly double the aboveground dry matter production and nitrogen content observed. The percentage of nitrogen derived from the atmosphere (%Ndfa) increased significantly in all species, rising from an average of 83% to 96% in the sucrose-amended soil compared to the control. In the case of C. juncea, there was a notable threefold increase in aboveground dry matter and nitrogen accumulation across different treatments, accompanied by a 26% rise in %Ndfa and a fourfold increase in nitrogen fixation amounts. These findings indicate that C. juncea has the potential to significantly enhance performance and ecosystem services in typical Uruguayan soil.