bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Review of Transition Metal Sulfides as Counter Electrodes for Dye-Sensitized and Quantum Dot-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Kharboot Layla Haythoor , Fadil Nor Akmal , Bakar Tuty Asma Abu , Najib Abdillah Sani Mohd , Nordin Norhuda Hidayah , Ghazali Habibah
Published: April 2023

Third-generation solar cells, including dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) and quantum dot-sensitized solar cells (QDSSCs), have been associated with low-cost material requirements, simple fabrication processes, and mechanical robustness. Hence, counter electrodes (CEs) are a critical component for the functionality of these solar cells. Although platinum (Pt)-based CEs have been dominant in CE fabrication, they are costly and have limited market availability. Therefore, it is important to find alternative materials to overcome these issues. Transition metal chalcogenides (TMCs) and transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) have demonstrated capabilities as a more cost-effective alternative to Pt materials. This advantage has been attributed to their strong electrocatalytic activity, excellent thermal stability, tunability of bandgap energies, and variable crystalline morphologies. In this study, a comprehensive review of the major components and working principles of the DSSC and QDSSC are presented. In developing CEs for DSSCs and QDSSCs, various TMS materials synthesized through several techniques are thoroughly reviewed. The performance efficiencies of DSSCs and QDSSCs resulting from TMS-based CEs are subjected to in-depth comparative analysis with Pt-based CEs. Thus, the power conversion efficiency (PCE), fill factor (FF), short circuit current density (Jsc) and open circuit voltage (Voc) are investigated. Based on this review, the PCEs for DSSCs and QDSSCs are found to range from 5.37 to 9.80% (I−/I3− redox couple electrolyte) and 1.62 to 6.70% (S−2/Sx− electrolyte). This review seeks to navigate the future direction of TMS-based CEs towards the performance efficiency improvement of DSSCs and QDSSCs in the most cost-effective and environmentally friendly manner.
Highly Regular LIPSS on Thin Molybdenum Films: Optimization and Generic Criteria
Authors: Sládek Juraj , Hlinomaz Kryštof , Mirza Inam , Levy Yoann , Derrien Thibault J.-Y. , Cimrman Martin , Nagisetty Siva S. , Čermák Jan , Stuchlíková The Ha , Stuchlík Jiří , Bulgakova Nadezhda M.
Published: April 2023

A systematic experimental study was performed to determine laser irradiation conditions for the large-area fabrication of highly regular laser-induced periodic surface structures (HR-LIPSS) on a 220 nm thick Mo film deposited on fused silica. The LIPSS were fabricated by scanning a linearly polarized, spatially Gaussian laser beam at 1030 nm wavelength and 1.4 ps pulse duration over the sample surface at 1 kHz repetition rate. Scanning electron microscope images of the produced structures were analyzed using the criterion of the dispersion of the LIPSS orientation angle (DLOA). Favorable conditions, in terms of laser fluence and beam scanning overlaps, were identified for achieving DLOA values <10∘. To gain insight into the material behavior under these irradiation conditions, a theoretical analysis of the film heating was performed, and surface plasmon polariton excitation is discussed. A possible effect of the film dewetting from the dielectric substrate is deliberated.
A Bond-Based Peridynamic Model with Matrix Plasticity for Impact Damage Analysis of Composite Materials
Authors: Sun Mingwei , Liu Lisheng , Mei Hai , Lai Xin , Liu Xiang , Zhang Jing
Published: April 2023

The prediction of damage and failure to fiber-reinforced polymer composites in extreme environments, particularly when subjected to impact loading, is a crucial issue for the application and design of protective structures. In this paper, based on the prototype microelastic brittle (PMB) model and the LaRC05 composite materials failure model, we proposed a bond-based peridynamic (BB-PD) model with the introduction of plastic hardening of the resin matrix for fiber-reinforced polymer composites. The PD constitutive relationships of the matrix bond and interlayer bond under compressive loading are considered to include two stages of linear elasticity and plastic hardening, according to the stress–strain relationship of the resin matrix in the LaRC05 failure model. The proposed PD model is employed to simulate the damage behaviors of laminated composites subjected to impact loading. The corresponding ballistic impact tests of composite laminates were carried out to observe their damage behaviors. The PD prediction results are in good agreement with the ballistic experimental results, which can verify the correctness and accuracy of the PD model developed in this study in describing the impact damage behaviors of composite materials. In addition, the characteristics and degree of damage in composite laminates are analyzed and discussed based on this PD model. The difference in the impact resistance of composite laminates with different stacking sequences is also studied using the numerical simulation results.
Special Issue “Extreme Mechanics in Multiscale Analyses of Materials”
Authors: Wang Bin , Soleiman-Fallah Arash
Published: April 2023

The responses and behaviour of engineering structures and materials subjected to various types of loading, particularly those under extreme loading such as earthquakes, explosions, and impacts, as well as under exposure to environmental elements, are of critical significance for the safety and integrity of said structures to fulfil their intended functions [...]
Preparation of Butyl Acrylate Copolymer Emulsion and Its Regulation Effect on Cement Hydration
Authors: Li Sifan , Mao Zhongyang , Deng Min
Published: April 2023

Due to its large volume and poor thermal conductivity, mass concrete is prone to temperature cracking caused by heat release during cement hydration after pouring. To address the issue of temperature cracking in mass concrete, this study utilized emulsion polymerization to prepare polybutyl acrylate (PBA) emulsions. At an optimal dosage of 1.5%, the addition of a PBA emulsion reduced the temperature rise of cement paste by 12.4%. The inhibitory mechanism of a PBA emulsion on cement hydration was analyzed by characterization techniques such as isothermal calorimetry, X-ray diffraction Rietveld full-profile fitting method (XRD), thermogravimetric–differential scanning calorimetry (TG-DSC), and mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP). The results showed that the C3S content in the cement specimens with 1%, 1.5%, and 2% PBA increased by 13.83%, 23.52%, and 34.65% compared to the blank group, respectively, while the C3A content increased by 92.59%, 79.63%, and 96.30%, respectively. The addition of a PBA emulsion can slow down the hydration rate of C3S and C3A, thereby reducing the temperature rise and fall rate of cement hydration, reducing the peak heat release of the hydration reaction, and ultimately achieving the inhibition of the cement hydration reaction. In addition, the mechanical properties of PBA-modified cement-based materials were also tested. The results show that the addition of PBA can affect the early strength development of cement samples, but has no effect on the strength after 60 days. Therefore, PBA can be used as a hydration temperature rise control material to reduce the risk of temperature cracking in mass concrete.
Vibration Serviceability of the Aberfeldy Footbridge under Various Human-Induced Loadings
Authors: Drygala Izabela Joanna , Dulińska Joanna Maria , Nisticò Nicola
Published: April 2023

Developing new structural materials, such as composite materials, has provided many opportunities in bridge engineering. Among these materials, glass-fiber-reinforced polymers (GFRPs), in particular, have found applications in footbridges. However, some of the commonly recognized advantages of GFRPs, such as the high values of the strength/weight ratio, can also be considered disadvantageous for certain realizations, particularly when the composite material used in a footbridge is, for example, subjected to dynamic actions such as those that are induced by wind and walking and/or running users. The induced accelerations can reach high values in comparison to recommended thresholds. Further, the natural frequency decays during the service life, reducing the capacity of the frequencies to move toward the frequency content of the pedestrian step. In this framework, the presented research is devoted to the dynamic comfort assessment of a pioneering cable-stayed GFRP pedestrian bridge, Aberfeldy, which was assembled in 1992 in the eponymous small town, which is located in Scotland (UK). The assessment was numerically performed through a finite element (FE) model, which was tuned based on the literature data concerning geometry, structural details, and in situ-acquired frequencies. The analyses carried out in this study include the evaluation of the accelerations’ time histories, which were induced when simulating a set of pedestrian path scenarios, and the dynamic actions that occur during pedestrian traveling. Specifically, different values of velocity and step frequency were considered as well as the inclusion of walking and running movements. Then, based on the acceleration values, the assessments of comfort criteria for the current standards were elaborated while also recognizing that the peak accelerations—usually attained for short periods—cannot be the only parameters considered in evaluating the pedestrian bridge capacity. This investigation allowed a dynamic comfort rating to be established for the Aberfeldy footbridge.
Zero-Field Splitting in Hexacoordinate Co(II) Complexes
Authors: Boča Roman , Rajnák Cyril , Titiš Ján
Published: April 2023

A collection of 24 hexacoordinate Co(II) complexes was investigated by ab initio CASSCF + NEVPT2 + SOC calculations. In addition to the energies of spin–orbit multiplets (Kramers doublets, KD) their composition of the spins is also analyzed, along with the projection norm to the effective Hamiltonian. The latter served as the evaluation of the axial and rhombic zero-field splitting parameters and the g-tensor components. The fulfilment of spin-Hamiltonian (SH) formalism was assessed by critical indicators: the projection norm for the first Kramers doublet N(KD1) > 0.7, the lowest g-tensor component g1 > 1.9, the composition of KDs from the spin states |±1/2> and |±3/2> with the dominating percentage p > 70%, and the first transition energy at the NEVPT2 level 4Δ1. Just the latter quantity causes a possible divergence of the second-order perturbation theory and a failure of the spin Hamiltonian. The data set was enriched by the structural axiality Dstr and rhombicity Estr, respectively, evaluated from the metal–ligand distances Co-O, Co-N and Co-Cl corrected to the mean values. The magnetic data (temperature dependence of the molar magnetic susceptibility, and the field dependence of the magnetization per formula unit) were fitted simultaneously, either to the Griffith–Figgis model working with 12 spin–orbit kets, or the SH-zero field splitting model that utilizes only four (fictitious) spin functions. The calculated data were analyzed using statistical methods such as Cluster Analysis and the Principal Component Analysis.
Two-Dimensional Exponential Sparse Discriminant Local Preserving Projections
Authors: Wan Minghua , Zhang Yuxi , Yang Guowei , Guo Hongjian
Published: April 2023

The two-dimensional discriminant locally preserved projections (2DDLPP) algorithm adds a between-class weighted matrix and a within-class weighted matrix into the objective function of the two-dimensional locally preserved projections (2DLPP) algorithm, which overcomes the disadvantage of 2DLPP, i.e., that it cannot use the discrimination information. However, the small sample size (SSS) problem still exists, and 2DDLPP processes the whole original image, which may contain a large amount of redundant information in the retained features. Therefore, we propose a new algorithm, two-dimensional exponential sparse discriminant local preserving projections (2DESDLPP), to address these problems. This integrates 2DDLPP, matrix exponential function and elastic net regression. Firstly, 2DESDLPP introduces the matrix exponential into the objective function of 2DDLPP, making it positive definite. This is an effective method to solve the SSS problem. Moreover, it uses distance diffusion mapping to convert the original image into a new subspace to further expand the margin between labels. Thus more feature information will be retained for classification. In addition, the elastic net regression method is used to find the optimal sparse projection matrix to reduce redundant information. Finally, through high performance experiments with the ORL, Yale and AR databases, it is proven that the 2DESDLPP algorithm is superior to the other seven mainstream feature extraction algorithms. In particular, its accuracy rate is 3.15%, 2.97% and 4.82% higher than that of 2DDLPP in the three databases, respectively.
Multi-Kernel General Fractional Calculus of Arbitrary Order
Authors: Tarasov Vasily E.
Published: April 2023

An extension of the general fractional calculus (GFC) of an arbitrary order, proposed by Luchko, is formulated. This extension is also based on a multi-kernel approach, in which the Laplace convolutions of different Sonin kernels are used. The proposed multi-kernel GFC of an arbitrary order is also considered for the case of intervals (a,b) where −∞<a<b≤∞. Examples of multi-kernel general fractional operators of arbitrary orders are proposed.
Managing Disruptions in a Flow-Shop Manufacturing System
Authors: Bhongade Ajay Surendrarao , Khodke Prakash Manohar , Rehman Ateekh Ur , Nikam Manoj Dattatray , Patil Prathamesh Dattatray , Suryavanshi Pramod
Published: April 2023

There is a manufacturing system where several parts are processed through machining workstations and later assembled to form final products. In the event of disruptions such as machine failure, the original flow-shop schedule needs to be revised and/or rescheduled. In such a scenario, rescheduling methods based on right-shift rescheduling and affected operations rescheduling work very well. Here in this study, the deviation of the make-span of the revised schedule from the original schedule is used as a performance measure. We have proposed three rescheduling methods. There are multiple factors that influence the performance of the rescheduling methodology. One of them is the make-span deviation of the schedule, and the factors influencing it are optimality of the initial solution, failure duration, deviation of make-span, rescheduling method, size, and instant of failure. The initial schedule and problem size depend on the flow-shop manufacturing system for which scheduling is performed, but the method of rescheduling depends on the decision as to which rescheduling methodology is to be selected. Computations are performed using full factorial experimentation. We also observed that right-shift rescheduling is the preferred rescheduling method in the majority of situations. In contrast, the affected operation rescheduling method is also equally suitable when the initial solution is created using modified bottleneck minimum idleness.
A Study of Assessment of Casinos’ Risk of Ruin in Casino Games with Poisson Distribution
Authors: Siu Ka-Meng , Chan Ka-Hou , Im Sio-Kei
Published: April 2023

Gambling, as an uncertain business involving risks confronting casinos, is commonly analysed using the risk of ruin (ROR) formula. However, due to its brevity, the ROR does not provide any implication of nuances in terms of the distribution of wins/losses, thus causing the potential failure of unravelling exceptional and extreme cases. This paper discusses the mathematical model of ROR using Poisson distribution theory with the consideration of house advantage (a) and the law of large numbers in order to compensate for the insufficiency mentioned above. In this discussion, we explore the relationship between cash flow and max bet limits in the model and examine how these factors interact in influencing the risk of casino bankruptcy. In their business nature, casinos operate gambling businesses and capitalize on the house advantage favouring them. The house advantage of the games signifies casinos’ profitability, and in addition, the uncertainty inevitably poses a certain risk of bankruptcy to them even though the house advantage favours them. In this paper, the house advantage is incorporated into our model for a few popular casino games. Furthermore, a set of full-range scales is defined to facilitate effective judgment on the levels of risk confronted by casinos in certain settings. Some wagers of popular casino games are also exemplified with our proposed model.
Current Methods for Identifying Plasma Membrane Proteins as Cancer Biomarkers
Authors: de Jong Edwin , Kocer Armagan
Published: April 2023

Plasma membrane proteins are a special class of biomolecules present on the cellular membrane. They provide the transport of ions, small molecules, and water in response to internal and external signals, define a cell’s immunological identity, and facilitate intra- and intercellular communication. Since they are vital to almost all cellular functions, their mutants, or aberrant expression is linked to many diseases, including cancer, where they are a part of cancer cell-specific molecular signatures and phenotypes. In addition, their surface-exposed domains make them exciting biomarkers for targeting by imaging agents and drugs. This review looks at the challenges in identifying cancer-related cell membrane proteins and the current methodologies that solve most of the challenges. We classified the methodologies as biased, i.e., search cells for the presence of already known membrane proteins. Second, we discuss the unbiased methods that can identify proteins without prior knowledge of what they are. Finally, we discuss the potential impact of membrane proteins on the early detection and treatment of cancer.
Life Cycle Assessment of Innovative Carbon Dioxide Selective Membranes from Low Carbon Emission Sources: A Comparative Study
Authors: Nilkar Amit , Orme Christopher , Klaehn John , Zhao Haiyan , Adhikari Birendra
Published: April 2023

Carbon capture has been an important topic of the twenty-first century because of the elevating carbon dioxide (CO2) levels in the atmosphere. CO2 in the atmosphere is above 420 parts per million (ppm) as of 2022, 70 ppm higher than 50 years ago. Carbon capture research and development has mostly been centered around higher concentration flue gas streams. For example, flue gas streams from steel and cement industries have been largely ignored due to lower associated CO2 concentrations and higher capture and processing costs. Capture technologies such as solvent-based, adsorption-based, cryogenic distillation, and pressure-swing adsorption are under research, but many suffer from higher costs and life cycle impacts. Membrane-based capture processes are considered cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternatives. Over the past three decades, our research group at Idaho National Laboratory has led the development of several polyphosphazene polymer chemistries and has demonstrated their selectivity for CO2 over nitrogen (N2). Poly[bis((2-methoxyethoxy)ethoxy)phosphazene] (MEEP) has shown the highest selectivity. A comprehensive life cycle assessment (LCA) was performed to determine the life cycle feasibility of the MEEP polymer material compared to other CO2-selective membranes and separation processes. The MEEP-based membrane processes emit at least 42% less equivalent CO2 than Pebax-based membrane processes. Similarly, MEEP-based membrane processes produce 34–72% less CO2 than conventional separation processes. In all studied categories, MEEP-based membranes report lower emissions than Pebax-based membranes and conventional separation processes.
Flow Behavior of Liquid Steel in Fewer Strands Casting of Six-Strand Bloom Tundish
Authors: Wang Xianyang , Wang Sijie , Hu Hao , Xie Xin , Wu Chenhui , Chen Dengfu , Long Mujun
Published: April 2023

In continuous casting, it is common to close single or multiple submerged nozzles of multi-strands tundish to adapt to production rhythm due to insufficient liquid steel or equipment failure. However, the closure of the nozzle will change the flow field in the tundish and further affect the removal efficiency of inclusions in the tundish. For this reason, based on numerical simulation, the flow behavior of liquid steel and the removal of inclusion in tundish with different nozzle closed were studied, and the optimal nozzle closing scheme was obtained, which provided a basis for the selection of nozzle closing in tundish. At the same time, the gas curtain is set in the tundish to alleviate the negative effects such as the increase of dead zone caused by closing nozzle. The results show that the removal rate of inclusions with sizes 10, 30, 50, 70, and 90 μm change from 12.4%, 39.1%, 74.2%, 93.3%, and 95.6% to 14.7%, 36.4%, 76.4%, 85.3%, and 93.8%, respectively. The volume of the tundish dead zone is increased after closure of nozzle, the dead zone of the tundish is improved when the gas is installed, and the dead zone volume was reduced from 14.8% and 16.4% to 13.9 and 14.1%.
Deep Learning Based Multiresponse Optimization Methodology for Dual-Axis MEMS Accelerometer
Authors: Mattoo Fahad A. , Nawaz Tahir , Saleem Muhammad Mubasher , Khan Umar Shahbaz , Hamza Amir
Published: April 2023

This paper presents a deep neural network (DNN) based design optimization methodology for dual-axis microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) capacitive accelerometer. The proposed methodology considers the geometric design parameters and operating conditions of the MEMS accelerometer as input parameters and allows to analyze the effect of the individual design parameters on the output responses of the sensor using a single model. Moreover, a DNN-based model allows to simultaneously optimize the multiple output responses of the MEMS accelerometers in an efficient manner. The efficiency of the proposed DNN-based optimization model is compared with the design of the computer experiments (DACE) based multiresponse optimization methodology presented in the Literature, which showed a better performance in terms of two output performance metrics, i.e., mean absolute error (MAE) and root mean squared error (RMSE).
Passive Type Reconfigurable Intelligent Surface: Measurement of Radiation Patterns
Authors: Rana Biswarup , Cho Sung-Sil , Hong Ic-Pyo
Published: April 2023

The demand for unprecedented data and ubiquitous wireless connections have led to the adoption of new types of transmitters and receivers. Additionally, different new types of devices and technologies need to be proposed for such demand. Reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS) is going to play a very significant role in the upcoming beyond-5G/6G communications. It is envisioned that not only the RIS will be deployed to assist and create a smart wireless environment for the upcoming communications, but also the receiver and transmitter can be fabricated using RIS to make a smart and intelligent transmitter and receiver. Thus, the latency of upcoming communications can be reduced very significantly using RIS, which is a very important factor. Artificial intelligence assists communications and shall be adopted widely for the next generation networks. In this paper, radiation pattern measurement results of our previously published RIS have been provided. This work is the extension work of our previously proposed RIS. The polarization-independent passive type of RIS working in the sub-6 GHz frequency band using low-cost FR4-substrate was designed. Each unit cell with dimensions of 42 mm × 42 mm had a single-layer substrate backed by a copper plate. A 10 × 10-unit cell array was fabricated to check the performance of the RIS. Such types of unit cells and RIS were designed to set up initial measurement facilities in our laboratory for any kinds of RIS measurements.
Sporulation, Structure Assembly, and Germination in the Soil Bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis: Survival and Success in the Environment and the Insect Host
Authors: Guerrero M. Gloria G.
Published: April 2023

Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is a rod-shaped, Gram-positive soil bacterium that belongs to the phylum Firmicutes and the genus Bacillus. It is a spore-forming bacterium. During sporulation, it produces a wide range of crystalline proteins that are toxic to different orders of insects. Sporulation, structure assembly, and germination are essential stages in the cell cycle of B. thuringiensis. The majority of studies on these issues have focused on the model organism Bacillus subtilis, followed by Bacillus cereus and Bacillus anthracis. The machinery for sporulation and germination extrapolated to B. thuringiensis. However, in the light of recent findings concerning the role of the sporulation proteins (SPoVS), the germination receptors (Gr), and the cortical enzymes in Bt, the theory strengthened that conservation in sporulation, structure assembly, and germination programs drive the survival and success of B. thuringiensis in the environment and the insect host. In the present minireview, the latter pinpointed and reviewed.
Unique Interstitial Textures within Coarse-Grained Jadeitite from Kazakhstan and Their Significance in Locality Identification
Authors: Wen Jiabao , Shi Guanghai , Xing Biqian , Long Taafee , Zhang Jinhong
Published: April 2023

Unique finer-grained interstitial textures, occurring as small blocks or irregular shapes of 0.15–10 mm, were found merging in the coarse-grained textures of Kazakhstan jadeitite. According to the mineral content, the interstitial texture could be classified into two types: Type I, consisting of almost all jadeite crystals, minor omphacite, and little analcime, and Type II, comprising mainly omphacite and analcime, with minor jadeite crystals. They both showed no obvious preferred orientation and have distinct boundaries with the coarse-grained textures but appear more transparent, with finer grain sizes and higher degrees of idiomorphism. The coarse-grained textures include granitoid textures and radial clusters. The granitoid textures formed by euhedral to subhedral prismatic grains usually show rhythmic zoning patterns and parallel intergrowths. Furthermore, fluid inclusions contain H2O and CH4, and it was supposed that the coarse-grained textures were formed by the precipitation of jadeitic fluids. However, perhaps due to the insufficient supply of the fluids or sufficient space, some interspaces were left among the coarser-grained jadeitite. Afterward, these interspaces were filled with precipitation of the successor H2O-richer fluids under a different P–T condition from that of the former coarser-grained jadeitite, and consequently, two kinds of interstitial textures formed. Such interstitial textures seem to appear only in Kazakhstan and therefore could serve as a typical visual identification feature of Kazakhstan jadeitite.
High Calorific Values Boron Powder: Ignition and Combustion Mechanism, Surface Modification Strategies and Properties
Authors: Liu Yang , Wang Yinglei , Liu Yuezhou , Zhao Baodong , Liu Weixiao , Yan Qilong , Fu Xiaolong
Published: April 2023

Boron powder is a kind of metal fuel with high gravimetric and volumetric calorific values, which has been widely used in military fields such as solid propellants, high-energy explosives, and pyrotechnics. However, the easily formed liquid oxide layer can adhere to the surface of boron powder and react with the hydroxyl (-OH) group of hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene (HTPB) binder to form a gel layer that is detrimental to propellant processing and restricts the complete oxidation of boron powder. Therefore, to improve the combustion efficiency of boron powder, the ignition and combustion mechanisms of boron powder have been studied, and surface coating modification strategies have been developed by researchers worldwide, aiming to optimize the surface properties, improve the reaction activity, and promote the energy release of boron powder. In this review, recent studies on the ignition and combustion mechanisms of boron powder are discussed. Moreover, the reported boron powder coating materials are classified according to the chemical structure and reaction mechanism. Additionally, the mechanisms and characteristics of different coating materials are summarized, and the mechanism diagrams of fluoride and metal oxide are provided. Furthermore, promising directions for modification methods and the potential application prospects of boron powder are also proposed.
Compound 275# Induces Mitochondria-Mediated Apoptosis and Autophagy Initiation in Colorectal Cancer Cells through an Accumulation of Intracellular ROS
Authors: Yang Dong-Lin , Li Yong , Ma Shui-Qing , Zhang Ya-Jun , Huang Jiu-Hong , He Liu-Jun
Published: April 2023

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the most common intestinal malignancy, and nearly 70% of patients with this cancer develop metastatic disease. In the present study, we synthesized a novel compound, termed N-(3-(5,7-dimethylbenzo [d]oxazol-2-yl)phenyl)-5-nitrofuran-2-carboxamide (compound 275#), and found that it exhibits antiproliferative capability in suppressing the proliferation and growth of CRC cell lines. Furthermore, compound 275# triggered caspase 3-mediated intrinsic apoptosis of mitochondria and autophagy initiation. An investigation of the molecular mechanisms demonstrated that compound 275# induced intrinsic apoptosis, and autophagy initiation was largely mediated by increasing the levels of the intracellular accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in CRC cells. Taken together, these data suggest that ROS accumulation after treatment with compound 275# leads to mitochondria-mediated apoptosis and autophagy activation, highlighting the potential of compound 275# as a novel therapeutic agent for the treatment of CRC.
The Role of Probiotics and Their Metabolites in the Treatment of Depression
Authors: Jach Monika Elżbieta , Serefko Anna , Szopa Aleksandra , Sajnaga Ewa , Golczyk Hieronim , Santos Leandro Soares , Borowicz-Reutt Kinga , Sieniawska Elwira
Published: April 2023

Depression is a common and complex mental and emotional disorder that causes disability, morbidity, and quite often mortality around the world. Depression is closely related to several physical and metabolic conditions causing metabolic depression. Studies have indicated that there is a relationship between the intestinal microbiota and the brain, known as the gut–brain axis. While this microbiota–gut–brain connection is disturbed, dysfunctions of the brain, immune system, endocrine system, and gastrointestinal tract occur. Numerous studies show that intestinal dysbiosis characterized by abnormal microbiota and dysfunction of the microbiota–gut–brain axis could be a direct cause of mental and emotional disorders. Traditional treatment of depression includes psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy, and it mainly targets the brain. However, restoration of the intestinal microbiota and functions of the gut–brain axis via using probiotics, their metabolites, prebiotics, and healthy diet may alleviate depressive symptoms. Administration of probiotics labeled as psychobiotics and their metabolites as metabiotics, especially as an adjuvant to antidepressants, improves mental disorders. It is a new approach to the prevention, management, and treatment of mental and emotional illnesses, particularly major depressive disorder and metabolic depression. For the effectiveness of antidepressant therapy, psychobiotics should be administered at a dose higher than 1 billion CFU/day for at least 8 weeks.
Design and Synthesis of Bisulfone-Linked Two-Dimensional Conjugated Microporous Polymers for CO2 Adsorption and Energy Storage
Authors: Mohamed Mohamed Gamal , Chang Siang-Yi , Ejaz Moshin , Samy Maha Mohamed , Mousa Aya Osama , Kuo Shiao-Wei
Published: April 2023

We have successfully synthesized two types of two-dimensional conjugated microporous polymers (CMPs), Py-BSU and TBN-BSU CMPs, by using the Sonogashira cross-coupling reaction of BSU-Br2 (2,8-Dibromothianthrene-5,5′,10,10′-Tetraoxide) with Py-T (1,3,6,8-Tetraethynylpyrene) and TBN-T (2,7,10,15-Tetraethynyldibenzo[g,p]chrysene), respectively. We characterized the chemical structure, morphology, physical properties, and potential applications of these materials using various analytical instruments. Both Py-BSU and TBN-BSU CMPs showed high thermal stability with thermal decomposition temperatures (Td10) up to 371 °C and char yields close to 48 wt%, as determined by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). TBN-BSU CMPs exhibited a higher specific surface area and porosity of 391 m2 g−1 and 0.30 cm3 g−1, respectively, due to their large micropore and mesopore structure. These CMPs with extended π-conjugated frameworks and high surface areas are promising organic electroactive materials that can be used as electrode materials for supercapacitors (SCs) and gas adsorption. Our experimental results demonstrated that the TBN-BSU CMP electrode had better electrochemical characteristics with a longer discharge time course and a specific capacitance of 70 F g−1. Additionally, the electrode exhibited an excellent capacitance retention rate of 99.9% in the 2000-cycle stability test. The CO2 uptake capacity of TBN-BSU CMP and Py-BSU CMP were 1.60 and 1.45 mmol g−1, respectively, at 298 K and 1 bar. These results indicate that the BSU-based CMPs synthesized in this study have potential applications in electrical testing and CO2 capture.
Bioactive Compounds Produced by Endophytic Microorganisms Associated with Bryophytes—The “Bryendophytes”
Authors: Stelmasiewicz Mateusz , Świątek Łukasz , Gibbons Simon , Ludwiczuk Agnieszka
Published: April 2023

The mutualistic coexistence between the host and endophyte is diverse and complex, including host growth regulation, the exchange of substances like nutrients or biostimulants, and protection from microbial or herbivore attack. The latter is commonly associated with the production by endophytes of bioactive natural products, which also possess multiple activities, including antibacterial, insecticidal, antioxidant, antitumor, and antidiabetic properties, making them interesting and valuable model substances for future development into drugs. The endophytes of higher plants have been extensively studied, but there is a dearth of information on the biodiversity of endophytic microorganisms associated with bryophytes and, more importantly, their bioactive metabolites. For the first time, we name bryophyte endophytes “bryendophytes” to elaborate on this important and productive source of biota. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the diversity of compounds produced by endophytes, emphasizing bioactive molecules from bryendophytes. Moreover, the isolation methods and biodiversity of bryendophytes from mosses, liverworts, and hornworts are described.
Structural and Optical Properties of Tungsten Disulfide Nanoscale Films Grown by Sulfurization from W and WO3
Authors: Gultom Pangihutan , Chiang Jiang-Yan , Huang Tzu-Tai , Lee Jung-Chuan , Su Shu-Hsuan , Huang Jung-Chung Andrew
Published: April 2023

Tungsten disulfide (WS2) was prepared from W metal and WO3 by ion beam sputtering and sulfurization in a different number of layers, including monolayer, bilayer, six-layer, and nine-layer. To obtain better crystallinity, the nine-layer of WS2 was also prepared from W metal and sulfurized in a furnace at different temperatures (800, 850, 900, and 950 °C). X-ray diffraction revealed that WS2 has a 2-H crystal structure and the crystallinity improved with increasing sulfurization temperature, while the crystallinity of WS2 sulfurized from WO3 (WS2-WO3) is better than that sulfurized from W-metal (WS2-W). Raman spectra show that the full-width at half maximum (FWHM) of WS2-WO3 is narrower than that of WS2-W. We demonstrate that high-quality monocrystalline WS2 thin films can be prepared at wafer scale by sulfurization of WO3. The photoluminescence of the WS2 monolayer is strongly enhanced and centered at 1.98 eV. The transmittance of the WS2 monolayer exceeds 80%, and the measured band gap is 1.9 eV, as shown by ultraviolet-visible-infrared spectroscopy.
High-Speed Centrifugal Spinning Polymer Slip Mechanism and PEO/PVA Composite Fiber Preparation
Authors: Ye Peiyan , Guo Qinghua , Zhang Zhiming , Xu Qiao
Published: April 2023

Composite nanofibers with excellent physical and chemical properties are widely used in new energy, biomedical, environmental, electronic, and other fields. Their preparation methods have been investigated extensively by many experts. High-speed centrifugal spinning is a novel method used to fabricate composite nanofibers. The slip mechanism of polymer solution flows is an important factor affecting the morphology and quality of composite nanofibers prepared by high-speed centrifugal spinning. As the polymer solution flows, the liquid wall slip occurs inside the nozzle, followed by liquid–liquid interface slip and gas–liquid interface slip. The factors affecting polymer slip were investigated by developing a mathematical model in the nozzle. This suggests that the magnitude of the velocity is an important factor that affects polymer slip and determines fiber quality and morphology. Under the same rotational speed, the smaller the nozzle diameter, the greater the concentration of velocity distribution and the smaller the diameter of the produced composite nanofibers. Finally, PEO/PVA composite nanofibers were prepared using high-speed centrifugal spinning equipment at 900–5000 rpm and nozzle diameters of 0.2 mm, 0.4 mm, 0.6 mm, and 0.8 mm. The morphology and quality of the collected PEO/PVA composite nanofibers were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and TG experiments. Then, the optimal parameters for the preparation of PEO/PVA composite nanofibers by high-speed centrifugal spinning were obtained by combining the external environmental factors in the preparation process. Theoretical evaluation and experimental data were provided for the centrifugal composite spinning slip mechanism and for the preparation of composite nanofibers.
Non-Noble FeCrOx Bimetallic Nanoparticles for Efficient NH3 Decomposition
Authors: Du Meng , Guo Lingling , Ren Hongju , Tao Xin , Li Yunan , Nan Bing , Si Rui , Chen Chongqi , Li Lina
Published: April 2023

Ammonia has the advantages of being easy to liquefy, easy to store, and having a high hydrogen content of 17.3 wt%, which can be produced without COx through an ammonia decomposition using an appropriate catalyst. In this paper, a series of FeCr bimetallic oxide nanocatalysts with a uniform morphology and regulated composition were synthesized by the urea two-step hydrolysis method, which exhibited the high-performance decomposition of ammonia. The effects of different FeCr metal ratios on the catalyst particle size, morphology, and crystal phase were investigated. The Fe0.75Cr0.25 sample exhibited the highest catalytic activity, with an ammonia conversion of nearly 100% at 650 °C. The dual metal catalysts clearly outperformed the single metal samples in terms of their catalytic performance. Besides XRD, XPS, and SEM being used as the means of the conventional characterization, the local structural changes of the FeCr metal oxide catalysts in the catalytic ammonia decomposition were investigated by XAFS. It was determined that the Fe metal and FeNx of the bcc structure were the active species of the ammonia-decomposing catalyst. The addition of Cr successfully prevented the Fe from sintering at high temperatures, which is more favorable for the formation of stable metal nitrides, promoting the continuous decomposition of ammonia and improving the decomposition activity of the ammonia. This work reveals the internal relationship between the phase and structural changes and their catalytic activity, identifies the active catalytic phase, thus guiding the design and synthesis of catalysts for ammonia decomposition, and excavates the application value of transition-metal-based nanocomposites in industrial catalysis.
The Discrepancy and Agreement between Patient-Reported Percentage Pain Reduction and Calculated Percentage Pain Reduction in Chronic Pain Patients
Authors: Fink Adam B. , Ong Charmaine , Sumar Moez K. , Patel Neil C. , Knezevic Nebojsa Nick
Published: April 2023

Two derivatives of the numeric rating scale (NRS) and visual analog scale (VAS), namely patient-reported percentage pain reduction (PRPPR) and calculated percentage pain reduction (CPPR), are commonly used when evaluating pain reduction. A small number of studies have attempted to assess the agreement between PRPPR and CPPR. However, they have been limited in their scope by a focus on specific types of pain, or by their focus on specific treatment modalities. As far as the authors of this article are aware, this is the first study to assess the agreement between PRPPR and CPPR in chronic pain patients, as well as the first to assess how the duration of treatment affects the correlations between PRPPR and CPPR. The aim of this retrospective analysis was to determine whether the duration of treatment affects CPPR and PRPPR, and the discrepancy and agreement between the two. Additionally, the study assessed whether individual treatment modalities, or the lack there of, impacted the discrepancy and correlation between PRPPR and CPPR. The mean PRPPR and CPPR for the entire patient population were 59.98 and 40.71, respectively. The mean discrepancy between the two parameters was 19.27. The agreement between PRPPR and CPPR, as measured by the concordance correlation coefficient, was 0.984 (95% C.I., 0.982–0.986).
Vitamin D in Depression: A Potential Bioactive Agent to Reduce Suicide and Suicide Attempt Risk
Authors: Somoza-Moncada María Montserrat , Turrubiates-Hernández Francisco Javier , Muñoz-Valle José Francisco , Gutiérrez-Brito Jesús Alberto , Díaz-Pérez Saúl Alberto , Aguayo-Arelis Adriana , Hernández-Bello Jorge
Published: April 2023

Suicide is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), every year, more than 700 thousand people die from this cause. Therefore, suicide is a public health issue. The complex interaction between different factors causes suicide; however, depression is one of the most frequent factors in people who have attempted suicide. Several studies have reported that vitamin D deficiency may be a relevant risk factor for depression, and vitamin D supplementation has shown promising effects in the adjunctive treatment of this mood disorder. Among the beneficial mechanisms of vitamin D, it has been proposed that it may enhance serotonin synthesis and modulate proinflammatory cytokines since low serotonin levels and systemic inflammation have been associated with depression and suicide. The present narrative review shows the potential pathogenic role of vitamin D deficiency in depression and suicide and the potential benefits of vitamin D supplementation to reduce their risk.
School Feeding to Improve Cognitive Performance in Disadvantaged Children: A 3-Arm Parallel Controlled Trial in Northwest Pakistan
Authors: Lowe Nicola M. , Qualter Pamela , Sinclair Jonathan K. , Gupta Swarnim , Zaman Mukhtiar
Published: April 2023

Malnutrition is associated with reduced learning aptitude and growth during childhood. We examined the impact of providing two school lunch variants, a standard school meal (school feeding, n = 70), or the standard meal with additional micronutrients (school feeding + micronutrient powder (MNP), n = 70), in children attending two schools in northwest Pakistan. A third local government school, where no lunch was provided (no school feeding, n = 70), served as the control. The primary outcome, cognitive function, was assessed using the Raven’s Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM) test, alongside haemoglobin, at three-time points: T1 (baseline, before the initiation of the school lunch programme), T2 and T3 (5 and 12 months, respectively, after the introduction of the school lunch). Data were analysed using linear mixed-effects models to contrast between trial groups, the changes from T1 to T2 and T3. Adjusted for T1 and other co-variates, improvements in the RCPM scores were significantly greater in the school feeding group at T2 (b = 1.61, (95% CI = 0.71–2.52), t = 3.52, p = 0.001) and T3 (b = 1.28, (95% CI = 0.22–2.35), t = 2.38, p = 0.019) compared with no school feeding. In addition, at T2 (b = 1.63, (95% CI = −0.10–3.37), t = 1.86, p = 0.065), there were no significant differences between school feeding + MNP and no school feeding groups. However, improvements in the RCPM scores were significantly greater in the school feeding + MNP group at T3 (b = 2.35, (95% CI = 0.51–4.20), t = 2.53, p = 0.013) compared with no school feeding. The findings indicate an improvement in cognitive performance in children who received a school meal with and without MNP, over a 12-month period. Currently there is no operational school feeding programme at the national or provincial level in Pakistan. Our findings, therefore, highlight the need for school feeding programmes to improve learning opportunities for children from underprivileged communities.
Carnosine and Beta-Alanine Supplementation in Human Medicine: Narrative Review and Critical Assessment
Authors: Cesak Ondrej , Vostalova Jitka , Vidlar Ales , Bastlova Petra , Student Vladimir
Published: April 2023

The dipeptide carnosine is a physiologically important molecule in the human body, commonly found in skeletal muscle and brain tissue. Beta-alanine is a limiting precursor of carnosine and is among the most used sports supplements for improving athletic performance. However, carnosine, its metabolite N-acetylcarnosine, and the synthetic derivative zinc-L-carnosine have recently been gaining popularity as supplements in human medicine. These molecules have a wide range of effects—principally with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiglycation, anticarbonylation, calcium-regulatory, immunomodulatory and chelating properties. This review discusses results from recent studies focusing on the impact of this supplementation in several areas of human medicine. We queried PubMed, Web of Science, the National Library of Medicine and the Cochrane Library, employing a search strategy using database-specific keywords. Evidence showed that the supplementation had a beneficial impact in the prevention of sarcopenia, the preservation of cognitive abilities and the improvement of neurodegenerative disorders. Furthermore, the improvement of diabetes mellitus parameters and symptoms of oral mucositis was seen, as well as the regression of esophagitis and taste disorders after chemotherapy, the protection of the gastrointestinal mucosa and the support of Helicobacter pylori eradication treatment. However, in the areas of senile cataracts, cardiovascular disease, schizophrenia and autistic disorders, the results are inconclusive.