bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Review on Molecular Dynamics Simulations of Effects of Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs) on Electrical and Thermal Conductivities of CNT-Modified Polymeric Composites
Authors: Najmi Lida , Hu Zhong
Published: April 2023

Due to the unique properties of carbon nanotubes (CNTs), the electrical and thermal conductivity of CNT-modified polymeric composites (CNTMPCs) can be manipulated and depend on several factors. There are many factors that affect the thermal and electrical conductivity of CNTs and CNTMPCs, such as chirality, length, type of CNTs, fabrication, surface treatment, matrix and interfacial interaction between the matrix and reinforcement (CNTs). This paper reviews the research on molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of the effects of some factors affecting the thermal and electrical conductivity of CNTs and CNTMPCs. First, the chirality dependence of the thermal and electrical conductivity of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) was analyzed. The effect of chirality on the conductivity of short-length CNTs is greater than that of long-length CNTs, and the larger the chiral angle, the greater the conductivity of the CNTs. Furthermore, the thermal and electrical conductivity of the zigzag CNTs is smaller than that of the armchair one. Therefore, as the tube aspect ratio becomes longer and conductivity increases, while the effect of chirality on the conductivity decreases. In addition, hydrogen bonding affects the electrical and thermal conductivity of the CNTMPCs. The modeling of SWNTs shows that the thermal and electrical conductivity increases significantly with increasing overlap length. MD simulations can be effectively used to design highly conductive CNTMPCs with appropriated thermal and electrical properties. Since there are too many factors affecting the thermal and electrical conductivity of CNTMPCs, this paper only reviews the effects of limited factors on the thermal and electrical conductivity of CNTs and CNTMPCs based on MD simulations, and further detailed studies are required.
Structure and Productivity of the Phytoplankton Community in the Southwestern Kara Sea in Early Summer
Authors: Mosharov Sergey A. , Druzhkova Elena I. , Sazhin Andrey F. , Khlebopashev Pavel V. , Drozdova Anastasia N. , Belyaev Nikolay A. , Azovsky Andrey I.
Published: April 2023

Knowledge of the features of the structure and productivity of the Arctic communities of marine planktonic algae is necessary to identify possible changes in the pelagic ecosystem functioning under the changing climate condition of the Kara Sea. This study shows that the species diversity, abundance of phytoplankton, and production activity of algae are at a maximum at the beginning of summer during a seasonal ice melting period. The studies were carried out in the southwestern Kara Sea and in the estuarine zone of the Ob and Yenisei rivers from 29 June to 15 July 2018. The concentrations of nutrients and dissolved organic carbon were determined. The optical properties of chromophoric dissolved organic matter, species composition, abundance and biomass of all size groups of phototrophic and heterotrophic phytoplankton, and parameters of primary production and potential photosynthetic capacity were considered. Statistical data analysis showed that the leading factors influencing changes in the abundance of phytoplankton and its productivity are the content of silicates and salinity. At the same time, the production potential of algae is realized as short-lived and small phytoplankton assemblages differed in number taxa and diversity, with an equally rapid decrease in photosynthetic activity. Such changes affect the Marine Zone to a greater extent and the Estuarine Zone to a lesser extent.
A Case Study-Based Analysis of Uncertainties on the Assessment of Impulsive Underwater Noise for the Marine Strategy Framework Directive
Authors: Juretzek Carina , Müller Andreas , Eigenmann Ramona , Borsani Junio Fabrizio , Sigray Peter
Published: April 2023

The Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) has been an important driver for progress in monitoring and assessment of impulsive underwater noise in the marine environment of the European Union. An important achievement of the MSFD implementation was the development of regional noise registries, providing the data basis for assessments. Recently, the EU has made tremendous efforts to propose harmonized assessment approaches and first-of-their-kind regional quantitative thresholds for impulsive underwater noise. In light of these newly developed thresholds values, we analyze the suitability of the available data in the noise registries for assessment purposes under the MSFD and review sources of uncertainties regarding quantitative results. We present three regional case studies located in the North Sea, the Baltic Sea and the Mediterranean Sea. For each of these regions, a sound-intensive activity was selected that aligned with a realistic impulsive noise event reported for the region. We made use of available data in the noise registries and applied the EU Guidance recommended for the description of impulsive noise sources, but also used alternative approaches and observations as comparison. The case study analysis includes the evaluation of data availability, data quality and data accuracy in the noise registries, and identifies corresponding consequences of the data for the uncertainty and interpretability of assessment results, especially for the quantitative evaluation of habitat areas impacted by noise. Finally, we make suggestions for the improvement of the data basis in the noise registries and the optimization of the assessment accuracy.
Performance of Rice Genotypes under Temporally Variable Wetland Salinity Conditions of a Semiarid Sub-Saharan Climatic Environment
Authors: Awala Simon Kamwele , Hove Kudakwashe , Simasiku Evans Kamwi , Izumi Yasuhiro , Mwandemele Osmund Damian , Iijima Morio
Published: April 2023

In semiarid regions, soil salinity, like drought, restricts crop productivity, causing food shortages among most inhabitants—the smallholder subsistence farmers. Seasonal wetlands formed in these regions during the rainy seasons could be utilised for rice (Oryza spp.) cultivation to increase food security, but rice is sensitive to salinity. Field and greenhouse-pot experiments were performed at the University of Namibia-Ogongo Campus, North-Central Namibia, to evaluate rice genotypes’ responses to seasonal wetland salinity. The field experiments assessed 16 rice genotypes for growth during the dry season and grain production during the rainy season, in saline and non-saline (control) seasonal wetlands. The saline-wetland salinity was predominantly NaCl; electrical conductivity levels increased from 2.8 dS m−1 (rainy season) to 34.3 dS m−1 (dry season), resulting in a 0–14% dry-season plant survival rate. The rainy-season wetland salinity decreased paddy yields in all rice genotypes; however, Pokkali produced the highest paddy and relative yields. The pot experiment assessed CG14 (salt-sensitive) and Pokkali (salt-tolerant) genotypes for growth using soils collected bi-monthly from the saline wetland. The rainy-season soil salinity reduced shoot growth in CG14 but did not affect growth in Pokkali, while the dry-season salinity killed both genotypes. The results of this study suggest the possibility of cultivating the salt-tolerant rice genotype, Pokkali, in the saline wetland during the rainy season due to salt dilution; however, the dry-season salinity levels would be detrimental to rice. More salinity-tolerance screening studies are warranted, in order to increase rice production and food security in Namibia and other flood-prone semiarid regions worldwide.
Exploring Gender Differences through the Lens of Spatiotemporal Behavior Patterns in a Cultural Market: A Case Study of Panjiayuan Market in Beijing, China
Authors: Han Bing , Yang Jianming , Liu Guanliang , Sun Ziwen
Published: April 2023

Markets are more than commercial places with high mobility, greatly contributing to urban vitality, social inclusion, and even local identity, which have all been studied extensively. However, as one of the market types, the cultural market contains a highly gendered feature in our contemporary cities that has rarely been explored. Therefore, this article presents a survey that uses spatiotemporal behavior mapping (STBM) to collect gender-related behavior patterns across four sites, five activity layers, four age groups, and three time dimensions in Beijing Panjiayuan cultural market, China. Our results show that all sites are generally dominated by males. Although mobility is higher on weekends than weekdays, the number of women decreases and the number of men increases at the weekend, resulting in a higher gender ratio. The gender ratio in the 19–36 and 54+ year groups synchronized decline with mobility, whereas other age groups did not appear to be significantly affected. More specifically, in the buying and common activities layers, the ratio of men to women at the two sites with higher mobility increased, and vice versa. It is the first study to present the effect of spatial mobility on gender differences in a cultural market by using objective spatiotemporal data. Our findings provide a scientific basis for the optimization and design practice of culture-related spaces to create a more equal and inclusive urban environment.
Engagement with Urban Soils Part II: Starting Points for Sustainable Urban Planning Guidelines Derived from Maya Soil Connectivity
Authors: Vis Benjamin N. , Evans Daniel L. , Graham Elizabeth
Published: April 2023

Using the Precolumbian lowland Maya model of urban soil connectivity discussed in Part I, we review how soil connectivity can transition into urban planning policy and, by extension, could ultimately become codified as vantages and guidelines for urban design. In Maya agro-urban landscapes, the interspersion of open and green space with construction and paving provides edges (or interfaces) between sealed and unsealed soils at which the potential for soil connectivity manifests. These edges create an undeniable opportunity for urban planning to determine methods, guidelines, and conditions that can enhance soil connectivity. We argue that adequate attention to soils in urban sustainability goals would counteract misconceptions about the compact city paradigm and compensation for soil sealing in urban practice. Through preserving and increasing urban soil availability, proximity, and accessibility, advisory policies can stimulate shared values and everyday behaviours that reinforce the responsible and productive use of urban soils. Such urban planning can enable and encourage widespread participation in urban soil management. To promote policymaking on urban soils, we assess the importance and challenges of using urban green space as a proxy for the presence of urban soils. Our review suggests that urban green space offers high potential for use in urban planning to develop habit architectures that nurture soil-oriented pro-environmental behaviour. However, we also acknowledge the need for consistent and systematic data on urban soils that match sustainable urban development concepts to assist the effective transition of soil connectivity into urban planning codifications. Formulating adequate soil-oriented planning guidelines will require translating empirical insights into policy applications. To this end, we propose methods for enhancing our understanding and ability to monitor urban soil connectivity, including onsite surveys of land-use and bottom-up experience of soils, the mapping of the edges between sealed and unsealed soils, and using landscape ecological scales of analysis. In conclusion, we position soil care and connectivity as a primary task for urban planning and design and digest our findings and empirical vantages into concrete starting points devised as instruments to support urban planning in achieving soil codification.
Engagement with Urban Soils Part I: Applying Maya Soil Connectivity Practices to Intergenerational Planning for Urban Sustainability
Authors: Vis Benjamin N. , Evans Daniel L. , Graham Elizabeth
Published: April 2023

Urban soil security depends on the means and social practices that enable multiple generations to maintain and improve soil resources. Soils are pivotal to urban sustainability yet seem absent from international planning advisories for sustainable urban development. Subsuming soils under broad and unspecific categories (ecosystem, environment, land, etc.) leaves soil interests indeterminate and largely ignored in urban planning. The absence of soils in sustainable urban planning advice permits planning guidelines that cause increasing land-use conversions which seal soils. Urban patterns of sealed and distanced soils, preventing access to and direct enjoyment of soil benefits, generate disengagement from soils. Despite fierce land-use competition, urban areas offer the greatest potential for soil connectivity exactly because people concentrate there. Based on previous work we accept that everyday opportunities to encounter and directly engage with soils in Pre-Columbian lowland Maya urban life rendered soil connectivity commonplace. Here, we review how the two original routes towards soil connectivity, knowledge exchange and producer–consumer relationships, reinforced and supported regular soil engagement in Maya urban practice. We frame our interpretation of Maya cultural values and urban practices in terms of leading insights from environmental psychology on pro-environmental behaviour and stakeholder attitudes and the principles of building resilience. This allows us to recognise that Maya urban soil connectivity functions thanks to the structural involvement of the largest societal stakeholder group, while imparting soil knowledge is entangled in shared socio-cultural activities rather than a task for a minority of soil specialists. The emerging Maya model for a socially engaged soil-aware urban society combines bottom-up practices and top-down social–ecological cultural values to increase resilience, to diminish reliance on long-distance supply chains, and to maintain productive human–environment relationships over the long term. As such it becomes a primary task for urban planning advice and guidelines to enable and support a widely shared and enduring culture of soil care. Urban sustainable development may only be successful if underpinned by a broadly carried increase in soil knowledge and awareness of intergenerational soil dependency.
Developing an LADM Valuation Information Model for Mongolia
Authors: Buuveibaatar Munkhbaatar , Lee Kangjae , Lee Wonhee
Published: April 2023

Modern land/property valuation practice requires three-dimensional (3D) valuation, which is crucial to better valuate and assess values of property units. However, conventional land/property valuation systems primarily exist in 2D form, which hinders the accurate valuation of buildings, condominiums and land. The present study introduces the first step toward establishing an advanced land/property valuation system in Mongolia, where it is urgent to meet such requirements. We examined relevant Mongolian geospatial standards and documents, those related to land valuation (i.e., cadastral parcels and buildings), and a valuation information model, which is based on the ISO 19152:2012 Land Administration Domain Model (LADM), with the aim of developing an LADM Valuation Information Model country profile for Mongolia. After the in-depth analysis of the data model of both the LADM Valuation Information Model and the national geospatial relevant standards, we proposed the LADM Valuation Information Model country profile as a conceptual model. Our study results demonstrate how the LADM Valuation Information Model can be adapted to the Mongolian land administration system. Our findings can be used to serve a reference data model to construct 3D land/property valuation systems for efficient valuation of land (e.g., mass appraisal) and taxation purposes.
Medium-Term Effect of Organic Amendments on the Chemical Properties of a Soil Used for Vegetable Cultivation with Cereal and Legume Rotation in a Semiarid Climate
Authors: Sánchez-Navarro Antonio , Salas-Sanjuan Maria del Carmen , Blanco-Bernardeau María Arantzazu , Sánchez-Romero Juan Antonio , Delgado-Iniesta María José
Published: April 2023

The response of a Petrocalcic Palexeroll dedicated to the cultivation of vegetables (Apium graveolens L.) with a rotation of a mixture of cereals and legumes when organic amendments are added has been studied; specifically, three fertilization treatments were experimented with: two organic (LSM and COA) and one with chemical fertilizers (I). The LSM and COA plots were managed according to the regulations governing organic production, while in I, conventional agricultural production practices were used. Over a three-year period, monthly samples were taken from the topsoil and analyzed for organic carbon (OC), total nitrogen (TN), C/N ratio, total P (P), electrical conductivity of the saturation extract (ECext) and extract ions, pH in water (pHw) and 1 M KCl (pHKCl), cation exchange capacity (CEC), exchangeable bases (Mg2+, K+, Na+), and assimilable elements (Fe, Cu, Mn, Zn). The results obtained indicated significant differences between the treatments for the OC, TN, C/N, and P; specifically, in the case of OC the mean concentrations were 22.2 > 20.1 > 17.5 g kg−1 for the LSM, COA, and I, respectively. The addition of organic amendments also improved the soil function for food production, evidenced by the higher concentrations of K, Mg, and micronutrients. The ECext and extracted ions were also sensitive to the treatments such that the sequence of ECext in the third year was COA = LSM > I, with values of 5.0, 4.8, and 3.3 dSm−1, which forced a rethink of the doses of the amendments applied. These results suggest that the LSM-based agronomic model had a beneficial effect on the soil properties and contributed to its function as a C sink.
Acai Berry (Euterpe sp.) Extracts Are Neuroprotective against L-Glutamate-Induced Toxicity by Limiting Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Cellular Redox Stress
Authors: ALNasser Maryam N. , AlSaadi Ayman M. , Whitby Alison , Kim Dong-Hyun , Mellor Ian R. , Carter Wayne G.
Published: April 2023

Aberrant accumulation of the neurotransmitter L-glutamate (L-Glu) has been implicated as a mechanism of neurodegeneration, and the release of L-Glu after stroke onset leads to a toxicity cascade that results in neuronal death. The acai berry (Euterpe oleracea) is a potential dietary nutraceutical. The aim of this research was to investigate the neuroprotective effects of acai berry aqueous and ethanolic extracts to reduce the neurotoxicity to neuronal cells triggered by L-Glu application. L-Glu and acai berry effects on cell viability were quantified using 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assays, and effects on cellular bioenergetics were assessed via quantitation of the levels of cellular ATP, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in neuroblastoma cells. Cell viability was also evaluated in human cortical neuronal progenitor cell culture after L-Glu or/and acai berry application. In isolated cells, activated currents using patch-clamping were employed to determine whether L-Glu neurotoxicity was mediated by ionotropic L-Glu-receptors (iGluRs). L-Glu caused a significant reduction in cell viability, ATP, and MMP levels and increased ROS production. The co-application of both acai berry extracts with L-Glu provided neuroprotection against L-Glu with sustained cell viability, decreased LDH production, restored ATP and MMP levels, and reduced ROS levels. Whole-cell patch-clamp recordings showed that L-Glu toxicity is not mediated by the activation of iGluRs in neuroblastoma cells. Fractionation and analysis of acai berry extracts with liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry identified several phytochemical antioxidants that may have provided neuroprotective effects. In summary, the acai berry contains nutraceuticals with antioxidant activity that may be a beneficial dietary component to limit pathological deficits triggered by excessive L-Glu accumulations.
Comparison of 116 Radiosurgery Treatment Plans for Multi-Leaf and Cone Collimator on a Varian Edge Linac: Are Cones Superior in the Daily Routine?
Authors: Čehobašić Adlan , Paladino Josip , Kaučić Hrvoje , Mišir-Krpan Ana , Leipold Vanda , Mlinarić Mihaela , Kosmina Domagoj , Mack Andreas , Schwarz Dragan , Divošević Sunčana , Alerić Ivana
Published: April 2023

Delivering focused radiation doses via linear accelerators is a crucial component of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for brain metastases. The Varian Edge linear accelerator provides highly conformal radiation therapy through a high-definition multi-leaf collimator (HD120 MLC) and conical collimator (CC). HD120 MLC adapts to the shape of the target volume using movable tungsten leaves, while CC has a block of conical shape (cones). CC in SRS treatments of small brain metastases is preferred due to its mechanical stability and steeper dose fall-off, potentially sparing organs at risk (OARs) and the brain better than HD120 MLC. This study aims to determine if CC offers significant advantages over HD120 MLC for SRS treatments. For 116 metastatic lesions, CC and HD120 MLC treatment plans were created in Varian Eclipse TPS and compared based on various dose parameters, robustness tests, and QA measurements. The results indicate that CC provides no significant advantages over HD120 MLC, except for slight, clinically insignificant benefits in brain sparing and dose fall-off for the smallest lesions. HD120 MLC outperforms CC in almost every aspect, making it a better choice for irradiating brain metastases with 0.1 cm3 or higher volumes.
Pediatric Angioedema without Wheals: How to Guide the Diagnosis
Authors: Liotti Lucia , Pecoraro Luca , Mastrorilli Carla , Castagnoli Riccardo , Saretta Francesca , Mori Francesca , Arasi Stefania , Barni Simona , Giovannini Mattia , Caminiti Lucia , Miraglia Del Giudice Michele , Novembre Elio
Published: April 2023

Angioedema (AE) is a vascular reaction of subcutaneous and submucosal tissues that identifies various clinical pictures and often is associated with wheals. AE without wheals (AEwW) is infrequent. The ability to distinguish between AEwW mediated by mast cells and bradykinin-mediated or leukotriene-mediated pathways is often crucial for a correct diagnostic–therapeutic and follow-up approach. AEwW can be hereditary or acquired. Factors typically correlated with hereditary angioedema (HAE) are a recurrence of episodes, familiarity, association with abdominal pain, onset after trauma or invasive procedures, refractoriness to antiallergic therapy, and lack of pruritus. The acquired forms of AE can present a definite cause based on the anamnesis and diagnostic tests. Still, they can also have an undetermined cause (idiopathic AE), distinguished according to the response to antihistamine in histamine-mediated and non-histamine-mediated forms. Usually, in childhood, AE responds to antihistamines. If AEwW is not responsive to commonly used treatments, it is necessary to consider alternative diagnoses, even for pediatric patients. In general, a correct diagnostic classification allows, in most cases, optimal management of the patient with the prescription of appropriate therapy and the planning of an adequate follow-up.
Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia in the Adolescent Population: An Overview of Available Literature
Authors: Palmer Victoria , Valdebran Manuel
Published: April 2023

Central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA) is a lymphocytic scarring alopecia that predominantly affects women of African descent. Recent studies have demonstrated prevalence in children and adolescents, as well as Asian populations. A thorough search of Pubmed, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, OVID Medline and Google Scholar was conducted using keywords such as “central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia”, “scarring hair loss”, “scarring alopecia”, “hot comb alopecia”, “pediatric” and “adolescent”. The results yielded few articles in the literature that directly addressed CCCA in the adolescent population, with three articles providing details of the presentation in the form of case series and retrospective reviews. The presentation in the adolescent population was found to be varied, ranging from asymptomatic to symptomatic and involving diffuse to patchy hair loss in only the vertex and/or frontal and parietal scalp. Genetic and environmental etiologies were found to be statistically significant, and markers of metabolic dysregulation predisposing patients to diabetes mellitus and breast cancer were also uncovered. The differential diagnosis of patients who present with hair loss in the adolescent population should therefore be broad, and a low threshold for biopsies should be adopted to confirm CCCA in suspected patients. This will have future implications for reduced morbidity and public health.
What Is “Cold” and What Is “Hot” in Mucosal Ablation for Barrett’s Oesophagus-Related Dysplasia: A Practical Guide
Authors: Spadaccini Marco , Alfarone Ludovico , Chandrasekar Viveksandeep Thoguluva , Maselli Roberta , Capogreco Antonio , Franchellucci Gianluca , Massimi Davide , Fugazza Alessandro , Colombo Matteo , Carrara Silvia , Facciorusso Antonio , Bhandari Pradeep , Sharma Prateek , Hassan Cesare , Repici Alessandro
Published: April 2023

Over the last two decades, endoscopic eradication therapy has been established as the therapeutic strategy of choice for patients with Barrett’s oesophagus-related dysplasia and early oesophageal adenocarcinoma. With a multimodal approach, ablative therapies have been highly effective in achieving remarkable eradication rates of metaplastic epithelium with an acceptable adverse event rate. Among ablative techniques, radiofrequency ablation is currently considered as the first-line option as its efficacy and safety are strongly supported by relevant data. Nevertheless, radiofrequency ablation is costly, and not universally available, or applicable to every situation. Moreover, primary failure and recurrence rates are not negligible. In the last few years, cryotherapy techniques and hybrid argon plasma coagulation have been increasingly assessed as potential novel ablative therapies. Preliminary data have been promising and suggest that they may even have a role as first-line options, alternatively to radiofrequency ablation. The aim of this review is to provide a practical guide for the ablation of Barrett’s oesophagus, with emphasis on the different ablative options.
Anti-Diabetic Therapy and Heart Failure: Recent Advances in Clinical Evidence and Molecular Mechanism
Authors: Hsu Chih-Neng , Hsuan Chin-Feng , Liao Daniel , Chang Jack Keng-Jui , Chang Allen Jiun-Wei , Hee Siow-Wey , Lee Hsiao-Lin , Teng Sean I. F.
Published: April 2023

Diabetic patients have a two- to four-fold increase in the risk of heart failure (HF), and the co-existence of diabetes and HF is associated with poor prognosis. In randomized clinical trials (RCTs), compelling evidence has demonstrated the beneficial effects of sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors on HF. The mechanism includes increased glucosuria, restored tubular glomerular feedback with attenuated renin–angiotensin II–aldosterone activation, improved energy utilization, decreased sympathetic tone, improved mitochondria calcium homeostasis, enhanced autophagy, and reduced cardiac inflammation, oxidative stress, and fibrosis. The RCTs demonstrated a neutral effect of the glucagon-like peptide receptor agonist on HF despite its weight-reducing effect, probably due to it possibly increasing the heart rate via increasing cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). Observational studies supported the markedly beneficial effects of bariatric and metabolic surgery on HF despite no current supporting evidence from RCTs. Bromocriptine can be used to treat peripartum cardiomyopathy by reducing the harmful cleaved prolactin fragments during late pregnancy. Preclinical studies suggest the possible beneficial effect of imeglimin on HF through improving mitochondrial function, but further clinical evidence is needed. Although abundant preclinical and observational studies support the beneficial effects of metformin on HF, there is limited evidence from RCTs. Thiazolidinediones increase the risk of hospitalized HF through increasing renal tubular sodium reabsorption mediated via both the genomic and non-genomic action of PPARγ. RCTs suggest that dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors, including saxagliptin and possibly alogliptin, may increase the risk of hospitalized HF, probably owing to increased circulating vasoactive peptides, which impair endothelial function, activate sympathetic tones, and cause cardiac remodeling. Observational studies and RCTs have demonstrated the neutral effects of insulin, sulfonylureas, an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor, and lifestyle interventions on HF in diabetic patients.
The Role of Seaweed Polysaccharides in Gastrointestinal Health: Protective Effect against Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Liyanage N. M. , Nagahawatta D. P. , Jayawardena Thilina U. , Jeon You-Jin
Published: April 2023

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a prominent global public health issue. Anti-inflammatory medications, immunosuppressants, and biological therapies are currently used as treatments. However, they are often unsuccessful and have negative consequences on human health. Thus, there is a tremendous demand for using natural substances, such as seaweed polysaccharides, to treat IBD’s main pathologic treatment targets. The cell walls of marine algae are rich in sulfated polysaccharides, including carrageenan in red algae, ulvan in green algae, and fucoidan in brown algae. These are effective candidates for drug development and functional nutrition products. Algal polysaccharides treat IBD through therapeutic targets, including inflammatory cytokines, adhesion molecules, intestinal epithelial cells, and intestinal microflora. This study aimed to systematically review the potential therapeutic effects of algal polysaccharides on IBD while providing the theoretical basis for a nutritional preventive mechanism for IBD and the restoration of intestinal health. The results suggest that algal polysaccharides have significant potential in complementary IBD therapy and further research is needed for fully understanding their mechanisms of action and potential clinical applications.
Targeting Mitochondrial Metabolism to Save the Failing Heart
Authors: Schenkl Christina , Heyne Estelle , Doenst Torsten , Schulze Paul Christian , Nguyen Tien Dung
Published: April 2023

Despite considerable progress in treating cardiac disorders, the prevalence of heart failure (HF) keeps growing, making it a global medical and economic burden. HF is characterized by profound metabolic remodeling, which mostly occurs in the mitochondria. Although it is well established that the failing heart is energy-deficient, the role of mitochondria in the pathophysiology of HF extends beyond the energetic aspects. Changes in substrate oxidation, tricarboxylic acid cycle and the respiratory chain have emerged as key players in regulating myocardial energy homeostasis, Ca2+ handling, oxidative stress and inflammation. This work aims to highlight metabolic alterations in the mitochondria and their far-reaching effects on the pathophysiology of HF. Based on this knowledge, we will also discuss potential metabolic approaches to improve cardiac function.
Mass Spectrometry-Based Investigation of Sugarcane Exposed to Five Different Pesticides
Authors: de Souza Thalisson A. , Rodrigues Gabriela C. S. , de Souza Pedro H. N. , Abreu Lucas S. , Pereira Laiane C. O. , da Silva Marcelo S. , Tavares Josean F. , Scotti Luciana , Scotti Marcus Tullius
Published: April 2023

The use of agrochemicals has become a standard practice worldwide to ensure the productivity and quality of sugarcane crops. This study aimed to analyze the metabolic changes in sugarcane culms treated with five different nematicides. The experimental design was randomized in blocks, and agro-industrial and biometric variables were evaluated. The samples were extracted and then analyzed using LC–MS, LC–MS/MS, and LC–HRMS. The data obtained were submitted to statistical methods (PCA and PLS). Fragmentation patterns, retention time, and UV absorptions of the main features were analyzed. The plantations treated with carbosulfan (T4) obtained higher agricultural productivity and total recoverable sugar (TRS), while the use of benfuracarb (T3) was associated with lower growth and lower TRS. Statistical analysis revealed the contribution of the features at m/z 353 and m/z 515, assigned as chlorogenic acids, which discriminated the groups. The MS profile also supported the occurrence of flavonoids (C-glycosides and O-glycosides) in the samples.
2,2’-[(1E,1’E)-{[Hexa-2,4-diyne-1,6-diylbis(oxy)]bis(2,1-phenylene)}bis(ethene-2,1-diyl)]bis(4H-chromen-4-one)
Authors: Malafaia Daniela , Sousa Joana L. C. , Silva Artur M. S. , Albuquerque Hélio M. T.
Published: April 2023

2-Styrylchromones (2-SCs) are interesting compounds for their biological properties as well as versatility as starting materials for further transformations. Herein, we disclose a new 2-SC derivative—2,2’-[(1E,1’E)-{[hexa-2,4-diyne-1,6-diylbis(oxy)]bis(2,1-phenylene)}bis(ethene-2,1-diyl)]bis(4H-chromen-4-one)—which is a dimeric compound formed by two units of 2-SC linked through a 1,3-diyne moiety. It was obtained in excellent yield (96%) through the copper-catalyzed homocoupling of two molecules of O-propargyl-2-SC. Its structure was unveiled by 1D (1H and 13C) and 2D (HSQC and HMBC) NMR techniques together with HRMS.
Engineered Highly Porous Polyvinyl Alcohol Hydrogels with Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) and Graphene Nanosheets for Musculoskeletal Tissue Engineering: Morphology, Water Sorption, Thermal, Mechanical, Electrical Properties, and Biocompatibility
Authors: Aparicio-Collado José Luis , Zheng Qiqi , Molina-Mateo José , Torregrosa Cabanilles Constantino , Vidaurre Ana , Serrano-Aroca Ángel , Sabater i Serra Roser
Published: April 2023

Electroactive composite materials are very promising for musculoskeletal tissue engineering because they can be applied in combination with electrostimulation. In this context, novel graphene-based poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate)/polyvinyl alcohol (PHBV/PVA) semi-interpenetrated networks (semi-IPN) hydrogels were engineered with low amounts of graphene (G) nanosheets dispersed within the polymer matrix to endow them with electroactive properties. The nanohybrid hydrogels, obtained by applying a hybrid solvent casting–freeze-drying method, show an interconnected porous structure and a high water-absorption capacity (swelling degree > 1200%). The thermal characterization indicates that the structure presents microphase separation, with PHBV microdomains located between the PVA network. The PHBV chains located in the microdomains are able to crystallize; even more after the addition of G nanosheets, which act as a nucleating agent. Thermogravimetric analysis indicates that the degradation profile of the semi-IPN is located between those of the neat components, with an improved thermal stability at high temperatures (>450 °C) after the addition of G nanosheets. The mechanical (complex modulus) and electrical properties (surface conductivity) significantly increase in the nanohybrid hydrogels with 0.2% of G nanosheets. Nevertheless, when the amount of G nanoparticles increases fourfold (0.8%), the mechanical properties diminish and the electrical conductivity does not increase proportionally, suggesting the presence of G aggregates. The biological assessment (C2C12 murine myoblasts) indicates a good biocompatibility and proliferative behavior. These results reveal a new conductive and biocompatible semi-IPN with remarkable values of electrical conductivity and ability to induce myoblast proliferation, indicating its great potential for musculoskeletal tissue engineering.
Investigation of Different Pre-Treatment Techniques and 3D Printed Turbulence Promoter to Mitigate Membrane Fouling in Dairy Wastewater Module
Authors: Kertész Szabolcs , Al-Tayawi Aws N. , Gergely Gréta , Ott Bence , Gulyás Nikolett Sz. , Jákói Zoltán , Beszédes Sándor , Hodúr Cecilia , Szabó Tamás , László Zsuzsanna
Published: April 2023

This study investigates the enhancement of dairy wastewater treatment using chemical and physical pre-treatments coupled with membrane separation techniques to reduce membrane fouling. Two mathematical models, namely the Hermia and resistance-in-series module, were utilized to comprehend the mechanisms of ultrafiltration (UF) membrane fouling. The predominant fouling mechanism was identified by fitting experimental data into four models. The study calculated and compared permeate flux, membrane rejection, and membrane reversible and irreversible resistance values. The gas formation was also evaluated as a post-treatment. The results showed that the pre-treatments improved UF efficiency for flux, retention, and resistance values compared to the control. Chemical pre-treatment was identified as the most effective approach to improve filtration efficiency. Physical treatments after microfiltration (MF) and UF showed better fluxes, retention, and resistance results than ultrasonic pre-treatment followed by UF. The efficacy of a three-dimensionally printed (3DP) turbulence promoter was also examined to mitigate membrane fouling. The integration of the 3DP turbulence promoter enhanced hydrodynamic conditions and increased the shear rate on the membrane surface, shortening filtration time and increasing permeate flux values. This study provides valuable insights into optimizing dairy wastewater treatment and membrane separation techniques, which can have significant implications for sustainable water resource management. The present outcomes clearly recommend the application of hybrid pre-, main- and post-treatments coupled with module-integrated turbulence promoters in dairy wastewater ultrafiltration membrane modules to increase membrane separation efficiencies.
The Obstacles to a Broader Application of Alkali-Activated Binders as a Sustainable Alternative—A Review
Authors: Dacić Amina , Kopecskó Katalin , Fenyvesi Olivér , Merta Ildiko
Published: April 2023

This paper aims to raise awareness regarding the obstacles limiting alkali-activated binders’ (AABs) application as a sustainable solution in the construction industry. Such an evaluation is essential in this industry, which has been introducing a wide range of alternatives to cement binders yet achieved limited utilisation. It has been recognised that technical, environmental, and economic performance should be investigated for the broader adoption of alternative construction materials. Based on this approach, a state-of-the-art review was conducted to identify the key factors to consider when developing AABs. It was identified that AABs’ adverse performance compared to conventional cement-based materials mainly depends on the choice of which precursors and alkali activators to employ and the regionalised practices adopted (i.e., transportation, energy sources, and data on raw materials). In light of the available literature, increasing attention to incorporating alternative alkali activators and precursors by utilising agricultural and industrial by-products and/or waste seems to be a viable option for optimising the balance between AABs’ technical, environmental, and economic performance. With regard to improving the circularity practices in this sector, employing construction and demolition waste as raw materials has been acknowledged as a feasible strategy.
Cellular and Systemic Effects of Micro- and Nanoplastics in Mammals—What We Know So Far
Authors: Grote Karsten , Brüstle Fabian , Vlacil Ann-Kathrin
Published: April 2023

Microplastics (MP) and nanoplastics (NP) are accumulating more and more in our environment and have been frequently detected in water and soil, but also in a variety of mainly marine organisms. Polymers such as polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene are those most commonly found. Once in the environment, MP/NP are carriers for many other substances, which often convey toxic effects. Even though intuitively it is thought that ingesting MP/NP cannot be healthy, little is known about their effects on mammalian cells and organisms so far. To better understand the potential hazards of MP/NP on humans and to offer an overview of the already associated pathological effects, we conducted a comprehensive literature review on cellular effects, as well as experimental animal studies on MP/NP in mammals.
Adsorption Characteristics between Ti Atoms of TiO2(100) and Corrosive Species of CO2-H2S-Cl− System in Oil and Gas Fields
Authors: Zhu Shidong , Wang Ke , Ma Haixia , Dong Pan
Published: April 2023

The service environment of OCTG (Oil Country Tubular Goods) in oil and gas fields is becoming more and more severe due to the strong affinity between ions or atoms of corrosive species coming from solutions and metal ions or atoms on metals. While it is difficult for traditional technologies to accurately analyze the corrosion characteristics of OCTG in CO2-H2S-Cl− systems, it is necessary to study the corrosion-resistant behavior of TC4 (Ti-6Al-4V) alloys based on an atomic or molecular scale. In this paper, the thermodynamic characteristics of the TiO2(100) surface of TC4 alloys in the CO2-H2S-Cl− system were simulated and analyzed by first principles, and the corrosion electrochemical technologies were used to verify the simulation results. The results indicated that all of the best adsorption positions of corrosive ions (Cl−, HS−, S2−, HCO3−, and CO32−) on TiO2(100) surfaces were bridge sites. A forceful charge interaction existed between Cl, S, and O atoms in Cl−, HS−, S2−, HCO3−, CO32−, and Ti atoms in TiO2(100) surfaces after adsorption in a stable state. The charge was transferred from near Ti atoms in TiO2 to near Cl, S, and O atoms in Cl−, HS−, S2−, HCO3−, and CO32−. Electronic orbital hybridization occurred between 3p5 of Cl, 3p4 of S, 2p4 of O, and 3d2 of Ti, which was chemical adsorption. The effect strength of five corrosive ions on the stability of TiO2 passivation film was S2− > CO32− > Cl− > HS− > HCO3−. In addition, the corrosion current density of TC4 alloy in different solutions containing saturated CO2 was as follows: NaCl + Na2S + Na2CO3 > NaCl + Na2S > NaCl + Na2CO3 > NaCl. At the same time, the trends of Rs (solution transfer resistance), Rct (charge transfer resistance), and Rc (ion adsorption double layer resistance) were opposite to the corrosion current density. The corrosion resistance of TiO2 passivation film to corrosive species was weakened owing to the synergistic effect of corrosive species. Severe corrosion resulted, especially pitting corrosion, which further proved the simulation results mentioned above. Thus, this outcome provides the theoretical support to reveal the corrosion resistance mechanism of OCTG and to develop novel corrosion inhibitors in CO2-H2S-Cl− environments.
Microstructure Optimization and Coercivity Enhancement of Sintered NdFeB Magnet by Grain Boundary Diffusion of Multicomponent Tb60Pr10Cu10Al10Zn10 Films
Authors: Huang Jingbin , Huang Min , Wang Fang , Wang Zhanyong , Zhang Jian
Published: April 2023

The use of magnetron sputtering film as a diffusion source was recently achieved in the industrial production of important grain-boundary-diffusion magnets. In this paper, the multicomponent diffusion source film is explored to optimize the microstructure of NdFeB magnets and improve their magnetic properties. Multicomponent Tb60Pr10Cu10Al10Zn10 films of 10 μm in thickness and single Tb films of 10 μm in thickness were deposited on commercial NdFeB magnets’ surfaces by magnetron sputtering as diffusion sources for grain boundary diffusion. The effects of diffusion on the microstructure and magnetic properties of the magnets were investigated. The coercivity of multicomponent diffusion magnets and single Tb diffusion magnets increased from 11.54 kOe to 18.89 kOe and 17.80 kOe, respectively. The microstructure and element distribution of diffusion magnets were characterized by scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscopy. The multicomponent diffusion facilitates the infiltration of Tb along grain boundaries, rather than entering the main phase, thereby improving the Tb diffusion utilization. Furthermore, compared to the Tb diffusion magnet, the thicker thin-grain boundary was observed in multicomponent diffusion magnets. This thicker thin-grain boundary can effectively serve as the impetus for the magnetic exchange/coupling between grains. Therefore, the multicomponent diffusion magnets have higher coercivity and remanence. The multicomponent diffusion source has an increased mixing entropy and decreased Gibbs free energy, and it therefore does not easily enter the main phase but is retained in the grain boundary, thus optimizing the microstructure of the diffusion magnet. Our results show that the multicomponent diffusion source is an effective route for fabricating diffusion magnets with high performance.
Feature Selection in Machine Learning for Perovskite Materials Design and Discovery
Authors: Wang Junya , Xu Pengcheng , Ji Xiaobo , Li Minjie , Lu Wencong
Published: April 2023

Perovskite materials have been one of the most important research objects in materials science due to their excellent photoelectric properties as well as correspondingly complex structures. Machine learning (ML) methods have been playing an important role in the design and discovery of perovskite materials, while feature selection as a dimensionality reduction method has occupied a crucial position in the ML workflow. In this review, we introduced the recent advances in the applications of feature selection in perovskite materials. First, the development tendency of publications about ML in perovskite materials was analyzed, and the ML workflow for materials was summarized. Then the commonly used feature selection methods were briefly introduced, and the applications of feature selection in inorganic perovskites, hybrid organic-inorganic perovskites (HOIPs), and double perovskites (DPs) were reviewed. Finally, we put forward some directions for the future development of feature selection in machine learning for perovskite material design.
Compressive Strength Prediction of Rice Husk Ash Concrete Using a Hybrid Artificial Neural Network Model
Authors: Li Chuanqi , Mei Xiancheng , Dias Daniel , Cui Zhen , Zhou Jian
Published: April 2023

The combination of rice husk ash and common concrete both reduces carbon dioxide emission and solves the problem of agricultural waste disposal. However, the measurement of the compressive strength of rice husk ash concrete has become a new challenge. This paper proposes a novel hybrid artificial neural network model, optimized using a reptile search algorithm with circle mapping, to predict the compressive strength of RHA concrete. A total of 192 concrete data with 6 input parameters (age, cement, rice husk ash, super plasticizer, aggregate, and water) were utilized to train proposed model and compare its predictive performance with that of five other models. Four statistical indices were adopted to evaluate the predictive performance of all the developed models. The performance evaluation indicates that the proposed hybrid artificial neural network model achieved the most satisfactory prediction accuracy regarding R2 (0.9709), VAF (97.0911%), RMSE (3.4489), and MAE (2.6451). The proposed model also had better predictive accuracy than that of previously developed models on the same data. The sensitivity results show that age is the most important parameter for predicting the compressive strength of RHA concrete.