bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimating Changing Marshland Habitat and Conservation Potential for Diamondback Terrapins (Malaclemys terrapin) in New Jersey under Climate Change
Authors: Ganter Jacqueline R. , Christman Zachary
Published: December 2023

The diamondback terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin), a brackish water turtle species native to the eastern United States, is under “special concern” in the state of New Jersey, due to decreasing habitat from development and changing climatic conditions. Diamondback terrapins reside in saline marshes and coastal wetlands and nest in sandy substrate, primarily beaches and dunes, in June and July. New Jersey is vulnerable to sea level rise, leaving diamondback terrapin habitats and nesting areas at risk of inundation under future climate scenarios, and, as the most densely populated state, subject to continual development pressures on potentially conservable land. Changing sea levels and climatic conditions will cause accretion and migration of marshes into open grassy land, yielding new potential terrapin habitats, though changing temperatures could affect the availability of male-producing nesting sites and impact potential nesting patterns. This study spatially modeled lost, gained, and changed habitat and nesting areas under sea level rise scenarios for 2050 and 2100 in New Jersey and quantified these by municipality to offer insights into potential conservable land that may mitigate these changes for the vulnerable species. The results indicate an overall decrease in potential habitat coupled with a decrease in both overall and male-producing nesting ranges.
Impact of Gas Foil Bearings, Labyrinth Seals, and Impellers on the Critical Speed of Centrifugal Compressors for Fuel Cell Vehicles: A Comprehensive Investigation
Authors: Ying Ming , Liu Xinghua , Zhang Yue , Zhang Chongbin
Published: December 2023

The critical speed is a crucial factor that impacts the stability of high-speed compressors. However, limited research has simultaneously considered the influence of gas foil bearings (GFBs), labyrinth seals, and impellers on critical speed. In this study, we develop a rotordynamic model that incorporates the aerodynamic forces of GFBs, labyrinth seals, and impellers to explore the effects of each component on the critical speed. To validate the developed model, experimental tests are conducted on a centrifugal compressor test bed, and the results exhibit a high level of agreement with the model calculations. By comparing the model calculations that include different components, we comprehensively analyze the influence of each component on the critical speed. The findings reveal that, for centrifugal compressors used in fuel cell vehicles, the rotordynamic coefficients resulting from GFBs are significantly larger than those resulting from impellers and labyrinth seals. Thus, it is reasonable to disregard the aerodynamic forces caused by impellers and labyrinth seals when calculating the critical speed. Furthermore, substituting rigid gas bearings for GFBs as a means to simplify the calculations has only a very slight impact on the results. This study aims to optimize the design process of centrifugal compressors for fuel cell vehicles and offers valuable insights for designing compressors of similar sizes.
An Efficient Laser Decontamination Process Based on Non-Radioactive Specimens of Nuclear Power Materials
Authors: Hu Yang , Liu Changsheng , Li Kangte , Cheng Jian , Zhang Zhiming , Han Enhou
Published: December 2023

Nuclear power components contain radioactivity on their surfaces after long-term service, which can be harmful to personnel and the environment during maintenance, dismantling, and decommissioning. In this experiment, laser decontamination technology is utilized to remove radioactivity from their surfaces. In order to meet the actual needs, a laser decontamination process without spot overlapping has been studied. Under the same equipment conditions, the decontamination efficiency of the non-spot overlapping process is 10 times higher than that of the spot overlapping process. Alloy 690 is used as the test substrate, and non-radioactive specimens are prepared by simulating primary-circuit hydrochemical conditions. The surface morphology, elemental composition, and phase composition of the specimens before and after laser decontamination are investigated with SEM and XRD using the single-pulse experiment and power single-factor experiment methods, and the laser decontamination effect was evaluated. The results show that the decontamination efficiency reached 10.8 m2/h under the conditions of a pulse width of 500 ns, a laser repetition frequency of 40 kHz, a scanning speed of 15,000 mm/s, and a line spacing of 0.2 mm, according to which the removal effect was achieved when the laser power was 160 W and the oxygen content on the surface was 6.29%; additionally, there were no oxide phases in the XRD spectra after decontamination. Therefore, the laser cleaning process without spot overlap can provide reference for future practical operations to achieve efficient removal of radioactivity from nuclear power components.
Research Progress on the Wear Resistance of Key Components in Agricultural Machinery
Authors: Wang Ying , Li Dong , Nie Cheng , Gong Pan , Yang Junsheng , Hu Zhigang , Li Bin , Ma Ming
Published: December 2023

Agricultural mechanization is crucial in enhancing production efficiency, alleviating labor demands, reducing costs, improving agricultural product quality, and promoting sustainable development. However, wear and tear are inevitable when using agricultural machinery. The failure of critical wear-resistant parts is responsible for over 50% of rural machinery breakdowns. For instance, a domestic combine harvester typically only operates trouble-free for 20 to 30 h, and the service life of a rotary plow knife is approximately 80 h. Investigating the wear performance of key farm machinery components reinforces machinery design and maintenance strategies, extends machinery lifespans, enhances agricultural production efficiency, and advances agrarian sustainability. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the latest research on the wear resistance of crucial agricultural machinery components. It delves into the factors influencing the wear resistance of these components and explores current effective measures to address wear-related issues. Additionally, it also summarizes the challenges and opportunities in researching the wear performance of key components in agricultural machinery and future development directions.
The Advances, Challenges, and Perspectives on Electrocatalytic Reduction of Nitrogenous Substances to Ammonia: A Review
Authors: Yang Liu , Han Huichun , Sun Lan , Wu Jinxiong , Wang Meng
Published: December 2023

Ammonia (NH3) is considered to be a critical chemical feedstock in agriculture, industry, and other fields. However, conventional Haber–Bosch (HB) ammonia (NH3) production suffers from high energy consumption, harsh reaction conditions, and large carbon dioxide emissions. Despite the emergence of electrocatalytic reduction of nitrogenous substances to NH3 under ambient conditions as a new frontier, there are several bottleneck problems that impede the commercialization process. These include low catalytic efficiency, competition with the hydrogen evolution reaction, and difficulties in breaking the N≡N triple bond. In this review, we explore the recent advances in electrocatalytic NH3 synthesis, using nitrogen and nitrate as reactants. We focus on the contribution of the catalyst design, specifically based on molecular–catalyst interaction mechanisms, as well as chemical bond breaking and directional coupling mechanisms, to address the aforementioned problems during electrocatalytic NH3 synthesis. Finally, we discuss the relevant opportunities and challenges in this field.
Application of Industrial Waste Materials by Alkaline Activation for Use as Geopolymer Binders
Authors: Setlak Kinga , Mikuła Janusz , Łach Michał
Published: December 2023

The purpose of this study is to synthesize geopolymer binders as an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional cement using available local raw materials. Waste materials such as chalcedonite (Ch), amphibolite (A), fly ash from lignite combustion (PB), and diatomite dust (D) calcined at 900 °C were used to produce geopolymer binders. Metakaolin (M) was used as an additional modifier for binders based on waste materials. The base materials were subjected to fluorescence X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis and X-ray diffractometry (XRD) to determine chemical and phase composition. A laser particle size analysis was also performed. The various mixtures of raw materials were activated with a 10 M solution of NaOH and sodium water glass and then annealed for 24 h at 60 °C. The produced geopolymer binders were conditioned for 28 days under laboratory conditions and then subjected to microstructural analysis (SEM) and flexural and compressive strength tests. The best compressive strength results were obtained by the Ch + PB samples—more than 57 MPa, while the lowest results were obtained by the Ch + D+A + M samples—more than 20 MPa. On the other hand, as a result of the flexural strength tests, the highest flexural results were obtained by D + A + M + PB binders—more than 12 MPa, and the lowest values were obtained by binders based on Ch + D+A + M—about 4.8 MPa.
Near-Infrared Reflective Polymer Films Based on UV-327-Doped Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Zhao Xiaohui , Liu Yutong , Cao Yue , Cao Hui , Wang Huihui , Yang Zhou , Wang Dong , He Wanli
Published: December 2023

We prepared cholesteric liquid crystal (CLC) films with broadband reflective properties by admixing organic dye UV-327 into inorganic zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs), utilizing the principle of pitch distribution from a large to a small gradient along the film thickness direction, leading to broadband reflection. ZnO NPs are poorly dispersed and easy to gather, but they do not decompose easily. The addition of UV-327 makes up for the above shortcomings. UV-327 is an organic compound with good compatibility and dispersion with liquid crystal systems. Therefore, we used the method of mixing two UV-absorbing dyes (UV-327 and ZnO NPs) to obtain CLC films. UV-absorbing dyes (UV-327 and ZnO NPs) made the liquid crystal films form a UV intensity gradient in the direction of thickness, prompting the polymerizable monomers to polymerize faster on the stronger side of the light, leading to the relative diffusion of chiral molecules and polymerizable monomers, forming the concentration gradient of chiral molecules in the direction of thickness. The pitch has a gradient distribution as the chiral concentration varies. Then, anchored by the polymer network, the pitch gradient distribution no longer changes. Broadened reflective bandwidth can reach up to 881 nm. Furthermore, the film covers the near-infrared wavelength band well, which can be applied to future smart windows or laser shielding for medical and military applications. It is also believed that this achievement will optimize the preparation technology of broadband reflective CLC films in the future.
Thermodynamic Properties and DFT Study on Highly Frustrated Cr3BO6: Coexistence of Spin-Singlets with Long-Range Magnetic Order
Authors: Kozlyakova Ekaterina S. , Korolev Vladimir V. , Berdonosov Peter S. , Latushka Sergey I. , Lyubochko Nadezhda A. , Vasiliev Alexander N.
Published: December 2023

The triangle-based magnetic subsystem of borates with the mineral norbergite structure M3BO6 (M = Fe, Cr, V) makes these compounds unique to investigate rare quantum ground states influenced by strong magnetic frustration. In this work, we investigated the thermal and magnetic properties of Cr3BO6 to find that despite very large negative Weiss temperature Θ = −160.7 K, it orders only at TN = 4.5 K and experiences a spin-flop transition at µ0H = 5 T. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations of exchange interaction parameters allow for suggesting the model of magnetic subsystem in chromium borate Cr3BO6. The results prove the decisive role of magnetic frustration on the formation of long-range order, providing therefore a basis for future study. Both experimental data and first-principles calculations point to the coexistence of chromium spin-singlets with long-range antiferromagnetic order.
Effect of Various Acid Solutions on the CO2 Dissolution Rate, Morphology, and Particle Size of Precipitated Calcium Carbonate Synthesized Using Seashells
Authors: Yun Yu Jeong , Lee Siwoo , Kim Yangdo , Ryu Young Bok
Published: December 2023

In this study, the influence of acid solutions on the production of precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC) using seashells was investigated. In terms of the Ca dissolution efficiency and atmosphere for dissolving CO32−, the results indicate that HCl, HNO3, CH3COOH, and HCOOH at 1.0 M were the most ideal among the acid solutions. The use of weak acids resulted in the low degree of dissolution of Al and Fe. These impurities could be mostly removed through the pH adjustment process, leading to PCC with a purity of 99% or more. Further, CH3COOH and HCOOH exhibited low CaCO3 carbonation efficiency owing to the hydrogen bonding of the carboxyl group and its hindering effect on the growth of CaCO3 particles. In addition, in the presence of the carboxyl group, the morphology tended to be oval, and the particle size was small. Particularly, when CH3COOH was used, the combined effect of the low initial Ca ion concentration and slow CO2 dissolution rate resulted in minimal changes during the carbonation time and the smallest particle size. However, variations in the degree of Ca concentration with a change in the acid solution concentration influenced the dominance of nucleation and particle growth, leading to variations in the particle size. The results of this study revealed that when manufacturing PCC using seashells, the appropriate acid solution must be selected to obtain the required PCC properties.
DyMnO3: Synthesis, Characterization and Evaluation of Its Photocatalytic Activity in the Visible Spectrum
Authors: López-Álvarez Miguel Ángel , Ortega-Gudiño Pedro , Silva-Jara Jorge Manuel , Silva-Galindo Jazmín Guadalupe , Barrera-Rodríguez Arturo , Casillas-García José Eduardo , Ceja-Andrade Israel , Guerrero-de León Jesús Alonso , López-de Alba Carlos Alberto
Published: December 2023

DyMnO3 is a p-type semiconductor oxide with two crystal systems, orthorhombic and hexagonal. This material highlights its ferroelectric and ferromagnetic properties, which have been the subject of numerous studies. Nevertheless, its photocatalytic activity has been less explored. In this work, the photocatalytic activity of DyMnO3 is evaluated through the photodegradation of MG dye. For the synthesis of this oxide, a novel and effective method was used: polymer-decomposition. The synthesized powders contain an orthorhombic phase, with a range of absorbances from 300 to 500 nm and a band gap energy of 2.4 eV. It is also highlighted that, when using this synthesis method, some of the main diffraction lines related to the orthorhombic phase appear at 100 °C. Regarding its photocatalytic activity, it was evaluated under visible light (λ = 405 nm), reaching a photodegradation of approximately 88% in a period of 30 min. Photocurrent tests reveal a charge carrier separation (e−,h+) at a 405 nm wavelength. The main reactive oxygen species (ROS) involved in the photodegradation process were radicals, OH•, and photo-holes (h+). These results stand out because it is the first time that the photodegradation capability of this oxide in the visible spectrum has been evaluated.
Hopf Bifurcation and Control for the Bioeconomic Predator–Prey Model with Square Root Functional Response and Nonlinear Prey Harvesting
Authors: Guo Huangyu , Han Jing , Zhang Guodong
Published: December 2023

In this essay, we introduce a bioeconomic predator–prey model which incorporates the square root functional response and nonlinear prey harvesting. Due to the introduction of nonlinear prey harvesting, the model demonstrates intricate dynamic behaviors in the predator–prey plane. Economic profit serves as a bifurcation parameter for the system. The stability and Hopf bifurcation of the model are discussed through normal forms and bifurcation theory. These results reveal richer dynamic features of the bioeconomic predator–prey model which incorporates the square root functional response and nonlinear prey harvesting, and provides guidance for realistic harvesting. A feedback controller is introduced in this paper to move the system from instability to stability. Moreover, we discuss the biological implications and interpretations of the findings. Finally, the results are validated by numerical simulations.
Adaptive Variable-Damping Impedance Control for Unknown Interaction Environment
Authors: Gong Dawei , Song Yaru , Zhu Minglei , Teng Yunlong , Jiang Jinmao , Zhang Shiliang
Published: December 2023

Aiming at the force-tracking error phenomenon of impedance control in an unknown surface environment, an adaptive variable-damping impedance control algorithm is proposed, and the stability and convergence of the algorithm are deduced. An adaptive-law selection rule is proposed to aim at the phenomenon that the adaptive parameters are too large to cause the system oscillation and overshoot and too small to cause the adaptive line variation in the curved surface environment. Finally, experiments conclude that the impedance control based on the adaptive variable-damping algorithm has a better force-tracking effect than the ordinary impedance control in the curved surface environment where the contact surface between the end-effector of the manipulator and the atmosphere is unknown.
Bankruptcy Prediction for Sustainability of Businesses: The Application of Graph Theoretical Modeling
Authors: Horváthová Jarmila , Mokrišová  Martina , Bača Martin
Published: December 2023

Various methods are used when building bankruptcy prediction models. New sophisticated methods that are already used in other scientific fields can also be applied in this area. Graph theory provides a powerful framework for analyzing and visualizing complex systems, making it a valuable tool for assessing the sustainability and financial health of businesses. The motivation for the research was the interest in the application of this method rarely applied in predicting the bankruptcy of companies. The paper aims to propose an improved dynamic bankruptcy prediction model based on graph theoretical modelling. The dynamic model considering the causality relation between financial features was built for the period 2015–2021. Financial features entering the model were selected with the use of Domain knowledge approach. When building the model, the weights of partial permanents were proposed to determine their impact on the final permanent and the algorithm for the optimalisation of these weights was established to obtain the best performing model. The outcome of the paper is the improved dynamic graph theoretical model with a good classification accuracy. The developed model is applicable in the field of bankruptcy prediction and is an equivalent sophisticated alternative to already established models.
A Continuous-Time Urn Model for a System of Activated Particles
Authors: Aguech Rafik , Mohamed Hanene
Published: December 2023

We study a system of M particles with jump dynamics on a network of N sites. The particles can exist in two states, active or inactive. Only the former can jump. The state of each particle depends on its position. A given particle is inactive when it is at a given site, and active when it moves to a change site. Indeed, each sleeping particle activates at a rate λ>0, leaves its initial site, and moves for an exponential random time of parameter μ>0 before uniformly landing at a site and immediately returning to sleep. The behavior of each particle is independent of that of the others. These dynamics conserve the total number of particles; there is no limit on the number of particles at a given site. This system can be represented by a continuous-time Pólya urn with M balls where the colors are the sites, with an additional color to account for particles on the move at a given time t. First, using this Pólya interpretation for fixed M and N, we obtain the average number of particles at each site over time and, therefore, those on the move due to mass conservation. Secondly, we consider a large system in which the number of particles M and the number of sites N grow at the same rate, so that the M/N ratio tends to a scaling constant α>0. Using the moment-generating function technique added to some probabilistic arguments, we obtain the long-term distribution of the number of particles at each site.
Fokker–Planck Analysis of Superresolution Microscopy Images
Authors: Annunziato Mario , Borzì Alfio
Published: December 2023

A method for the analysis of super-resolution microscopy images is presented. This method is based on the analysis of stochastic trajectories of particles moving on the membrane of a cell with the assumption that this motion is determined by the properties of this membrane. Thus, the purpose of this method is to recover the structural properties of the membrane by solving an inverse problem governed by the Fokker–Planck equation related to the stochastic trajectories. Results of numerical experiments demonstrate the ability of the proposed method to reconstruct the potential of a cell membrane by using synthetic data similar those captured by super-resolution microscopy of luminescent activated proteins.
Novel BRICHOS-Related Antimicrobial Peptides from the Marine Worm Heteromastus filiformis: Transcriptome Mining, Synthesis, Biological Activities, and Therapeutic Potential
Authors: Panteleev Pavel V. , Safronova Victoria N. , Duan Shuting , Komlev Alexey S. , Bolosov Ilia A. , Kruglikov Roman N. , Kombarova Tatiana I. , Korobova Olga V. , Pereskokova Eugenia S. , Borzilov Alexander I. , Dyachenko Igor A. , Shamova Olga V. , Huang Yu , Shi Qiong , Ovchinnikova Tatiana V.
Published: December 2023

Marine polychaetes represent an extremely rich and underexplored source of novel families of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). The rapid development of next generation sequencing technologies and modern bioinformatics approaches allows us to apply them for characterization of AMP-derived genes and the identification of encoded immune-related peptides with the aid of genome and transcriptome mining. Here, we describe a universal bioinformatic approach based on the conserved BRICHOS domain as a search query for the identification of novel structurally unique AMP families in annelids. In this paper, we report the discovery of 13 novel BRICHOS-related peptides, ranging from 18 to 91 amino acid residues in length, in the cosmopolitan marine worm Heteromastus filiformis with the assistance of transcriptome mining. Two characteristic peptides with a low homology in relation to known AMPs—the α-helical amphiphilic linear peptide, consisting of 28 amino acid residues and designated as HfBRI-28, and the 25-mer β-hairpin peptide, specified as HfBRI-25 and having a unique structure stabilized by two disulfide bonds—were obtained and analyzed as potential antimicrobials. Interestingly, both peptides showed the ability to kill bacteria via membrane damage, but mechanisms of their action and spectra of their activity differed significantly. Being non-cytotoxic towards mammalian cells and stable to proteolysis in the blood serum, HfBRI-25 was selected for further in vivo studies in a lethal murine model of the Escherichia coli infection, where the peptide contributed to the 100% survival rate in animals. A high activity against uropathogenic strains of E. coli (UPEC) as well as a strong ability to kill bacteria within biofilms allow us to consider the novel peptide HfBRI-25 as a promising candidate for the clinical therapy of urinary tract infections (UTI) associated with UPEC.
Specifics of Pharmacokinetics and Biodistribution of 5-Fluorouracil Polymeric Complex
Authors: Zhukova Olga V. , Dubovskaya Natalya A. , Zykova Daria A. , Arkhipova Evgenia V. , Vorobeva Olga A. , Zaborskaya Olga G. , Zaitsev Sergey D. , Grigoreva Alexandra O. , Chicharov Aleksandr A. , Ryabov Sergey A.
Published: December 2023

One of the promising and relevant directions in the treatment of oncological diseases is currently the development of a system for the delivery of antitumor drugs based on polyanions. Therefore, the aim of this work was to study the specifics of pharmacokinetics and biodistribution of a 5-Fluorouracil polymeric complex compared with commercial 5-Fluorouracil. Materials and methods: Monomeric methacrylic acid was used to synthesize polymers; 2-phenylpropane-2-ilbenzodithioate was used for the synthesis of poly(methacrylic acid). To study the molecular-weight characteristics of poly(methacrylic acid) by gel permeation chromatography, an experimental neoplasm model was obtained by grafting PC-1 cancer cells. Blood samples were drawn from the tail vein at different points in time. The rats were sacrificed via decapitation after drawing the last pharmacokinetic blood sample. To study the biodistribution, internal organs were isolated and analyzed. The measurements were carried out by high-performance liquid chromatography. Results: Our results demonstrate that incorporation in a polymeric complex changes the pharmacokinetics and biodistribution profile of 5-FU. The polymeric complex was shown to accumulate to a higher level in the lung and spleen. Conclusion: The results obtained are the basis for further studies to verify the efficacy of the 5-Fluorouracil polymeric complex.
Synthesis and Application of a Novel Multi-Branched Block Polyether Low-Temperature Demulsifier
Authors: Jiang Shaohui , Li Qingsong , Xu Botao , Zou Tao , Zhang Yan , Ping Wei , Ma Qiang
Published: December 2023

In this paper, a low-temperature thick oil demulsifier with high polarity was prepared by introducing ethylene oxide, propylene oxide block, and butylene oxide using m-diphenol as a starting agent. The main reasons for the difficulty involved in the low-temperature emulsification of extractive fluids were explained by analyzing the synthetic influencing factors and infrared spectra of the star comb polymer (PR-D2) and by analyzing the four fractions, interfacial energies, and zeta potentials of crude oils from the Chun and Gao fields. The effects of PR-D2 surfactant on the emulsification performance of crude oil recovery fluids were investigated via indoor and field experiments. The experimental results indicate that the optimal synthesis conditions for this emulsion breaker are as follows: a quality ratio of ionic reaction intermediates and meso-diphenol of R = 10:1; 1 g of the initiator; a polymerization temperature of 80 °C; and a reaction time of 8 h. Colloidal asphaltenes in the crude oil were the main factor hindering the low-temperature demulsification of the Gao oilfield’s extractive fluids, and the reason for the demulsification difficulty of the extractive fluids in the Chun oilfield is that the temperature of demulsification is lower than the wax precipitation point. The demulsification rate of the Chun oilfield’s extractive fluids reached more than 98% when the PR-D2 concentration reached 150 mg/L at 43 °C. The demulsification rate of the Gao oilfield’s extractive fluids reached more than 98% at a PR-D2 concentration of 150 mg/L at 65 °C. The field experiments show that the Chun oilfield’s extractive fluids can still demulsify after the temperature is reduced to 43 °C in winter. The emulsification temperature of the Gao oilfield’s extractive fluids was reduced from 73 °C to 68 °C, with an excellent demulsification effect.
Chenopodium quinoa Willd. and Amaranthus hybridus L.: Ancestral Andean Food Security and Modern Anticancer and Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Romero-Benavides Juan Carlos , Guaraca-Pino Evelyn , Duarte-Casar Rodrigo , Rojas-Le-Fort Marlene , Bailon-Moscoso Natalia
Published: December 2023

The species Chenopodium quinoa Willd. and Amaranthus hybridus L. are Andean staples, part of the traditional diet and gastronomy of the people of the highlands of Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, northern Argentina and Chile, with several ethnopharmacological uses, among them anticancer applications. This review aims to present updated information on the nutritional composition, phytochemistry, and antimicrobial and anticancer activity of Quinoa and Amaranth. Both species contribute to food security due to their essential amino acid contents, which are higher than those of most staples. It is highlighted that the biological activity, especially the antimicrobial activity in C. quinoa, and the anticancer activity in both species is related to the presence of phytochemicals present mostly in leaves and seeds. The biological activity of both species is consistent with their phytochemical composition, with phenolic acids, flavonoids, carotenoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, saponins and peptides being the main compound families of interest. Extracts of different plant organs of both species and peptide fractions have shown in vitro and, to a lesser degree, in vivo activity against a variety of bacteria and cancer cell lines. These findings confirm the antimicrobial and anticancer activity of both species, C. quinoa having more reported activity than A. hybridus through different compounds and mechanisms.
Umbelliferone and Its Synthetic Derivatives as Suitable Molecules for the Development of Agents with Biological Activities: A Review of Their Pharmacological and Therapeutic Potential
Authors: Kornicka Anita , Balewski Łukasz , Lahutta Monika , Kokoszka Jakub
Published: December 2023

Umbelliferone (UMB), known as 7-hydroxycoumarin, hydrangine, or skimmetine, is a naturally occurring coumarin in the plant kingdom, mainly from the Umbelliferae family that possesses a wide variety of pharmacological properties. In addition, the use of nanoparticles containing umbelliferone may improve anti-inflammatory or anticancer therapy. Also, its derivatives are endowed with great potential for therapeutic applications due to their broad spectrum of biological activities such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, neuroprotective, antipsychotic, antiepileptic, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, antiviral, and antiproliferative effects. Moreover, 7-hydroxycoumarin ligands have been implemented to develop 7-hydroxycoumarin-based metal complexes with improved pharmacological activity. Besides therapeutic applications, umbelliferone analogues have been designed as fluorescent probes for the detection of biologically important species, such as enzymes, lysosomes, and endosomes, or for monitoring cell processes and protein functions as well various diseases caused by an excess of hydrogen peroxide. Furthermore, 7-hydroxy-based chemosensors may serve as a highly selective tool for Al3+ and Hg2+ detection in biological systems. This review is devoted to a summary of the research on umbelliferone and its synthetic derivatives in terms of biological and pharmaceutical properties, especially those reported in the literature during the period of 2017–2023. Future potential applications of umbelliferone and its synthetic derivatives are presented.
Pre-Clinical Investigations of the Pharmacodynamics of Immunogenic Smart Radiotherapy Biomaterials (iSRB)
Authors: Moreau Michele , Acter Shahinur , Ngema Lindokuhle M. , Bih Noella , Sy Gnagna , Keno Lensa S. , Chow Kwok Fan , Sajo Erno , Nebangwa Oscar , Walker Jacques , Oh Philmo , Broyles Eric , Ngwa Wilfred , Yasmin-Karim Sayeda
Published: December 2023

The use of an immunogenic smart radiotherapy biomaterial (iSRB) for the delivery of anti-CD40 is effective in treating different cancers in animal models. This study further characterizes the use of iSRBs to evaluate any associated toxicity in healthy C57BL6 mice. iSRBs were fabricated using a poly-lactic-co-glycolic-acid (PLGA) polymer mixed with titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles incorporated into its matrix. Animal studies included investigations of freely injected anti-CD40, anti-CD40-loaded iSRBs, unloaded iSRBs and control (healthy) animal cohorts. Mice were euthanized at pre-determined time points post-treatment to evaluate the serum chemistry pertaining to kidney and liver toxicity and cell blood count parameters, as well as pathology reports on organs of interest. Results showed comparable liver and kidney function in all cohorts. The results indicate that using iSRBs with or without anti-CD40 does not result in any significant toxicity compared to healthy untreated animals. The findings provide a useful reference for further studies aimed at optimizing the therapeutic efficacy and safety of iSRBs and further clinical translation work.
Surface Modification of Titanate Nanotubes with a Carboxylic Arm for Further Functionalization Intended to Pharmaceutical Applications
Authors: Saker Ranim , Jójárt-Laczkovich Orsolya , Regdon Géza , Takács Tamás , Szenti Imre , Bózsity-Faragó Noémi , Zupkó István , Sovány Tamás
Published: December 2023

Nanotechnology is playing a significant role in modern life with tremendous potential and promising results in almost every domain, especially the pharmaceutical one. The impressive performance of nanomaterials is shaping the future of science and revolutionizing the traditional concepts of industry and research. Titanate nanotubes (TNTs) are one of these novel entities that became an appropriate choice to apply in several platforms due to their remarkable properties such as preparation simplicity, high stability, good biocompatibility, affordability and low toxicity. Surface modification of these nanotubes is also promoting their superior characters and contributing more to the enhancement of their performance. In this research work, an attempt was made to functionalize the surface of titanate nanotubes with carboxylic groups to increase their surface reactivity and widen the possibility of bonding different molecules that could not be bonded directly. Three carboxylic acids were investigated (trichloroacetic acid, citric acid and acrylic acid), and the prepared composites were examined using FT-IR and Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS). The toxicity of these functionalized TNTs was also investigated using adherent cancer cell lines and fibroblasts to determine their safety profile and to draw the basic lines for their intended future application. Based on the experimental results, acrylic acid could be the suitable choice for permanent surface modification with multiple carboxylic groups due to its possibility to be polymerized, thus presenting the opportunity to link additional molecules of interest such as polyethylene glycol (PEG) and/or other molecules at the same time.
Connecting Structural Characteristics and Material Properties in Phase-Separating Polymer Solutions: Phase-Field Modeling and Physics-Informed Neural Networks
Authors: Lin Le-Chi , Chen Sheng-Jer , Yu Hsiu-Yu
Published: December 2023

The formed morphology during phase separation is crucial for determining the properties of the resulting product, e.g., a functional membrane. However, an accurate morphology prediction is challenging due to the inherent complexity of molecular interactions. In this study, the phase separation of a two-dimensional model polymer solution is investigated. The spinodal decomposition during the formation of polymer-rich domains is described by the Cahn–Hilliard equation incorporating the Flory–Huggins free energy description between the polymer and solvent. We circumvent the heavy burden of precise morphology prediction through two aspects. First, we systematically analyze the degree of impact of the parameters (initial polymer volume fraction, polymer mobility, degree of polymerization, surface tension parameter, and Flory–Huggins interaction parameter) in a phase-separating system on morphological evolution characterized by geometrical fingerprints to determine the most influential factor. The sensitivity analysis provides an estimate for the error tolerance of each parameter in determining the transition time, the spinodal decomposition length, and the domain growth rate. Secondly, we devise a set of physics-informed neural networks (PINN) comprising two coupled feedforward neural networks to represent the phase-field equations and inversely discover the value of the embedded parameter for a given morphological evolution. Among the five parameters considered, the polymer–solvent affinity is key in determining the phase transition time and the growth law of the polymer-rich domains. We demonstrate that the unknown parameter can be accurately determined by renormalizing the PINN-predicted parameter by the change of characteristic domain size in time. Our results suggest that certain degrees of error are tolerable and do not significantly affect the morphology properties during the domain growth. Moreover, reliable inverse prediction of the unknown parameter can be pursued by merely two separate snapshots during morphological evolution. The latter largely reduces the computational load in the standard data-driven predictive methods, and the approach may prove beneficial to the inverse design for specific needs.
Generation of PVP Membranes Using Extracts/Phenolic Fraction of Dysphania ambrosioides, Opuntia ficus-indica, and Tradescantia pallida
Authors: Zaca Moran Orlando , García Suastegui Wendy Argelia , Cruz San Juan Jonathan Hillel , López Méndez Lawrence Christopher , López Gayou Valentin
Published: December 2023

In the present work, electrospun membranes of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) nanofibers were manufactured using extracts and phenolic fractions of Dysphania ambrosioides (epazote), Opuntia ficus-indica (nopal), and Tradescantia pallida (chicken grass). The characterization of the membranes was carried out by scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The membranes synthesized through the use of the extracts generally showed a slight decrease in the diameter of the fibers but an increase in the size of the pores due to the presence of nanoparticles (rosaries) on the surface of the fibers, while the membranes synthesized using the phenolic fraction demonstrated an inversely proportional relationship between the compounds of this family with the diameter of the fibers and the size of the pore, allowing to elucidate part of the polymerization mechanisms of PVP nanofibers, in addition to proposing a reaction mechanism in the interaction between PVP and phenolic compounds for surface functionalization. Likewise, we demonstrate that the generation of reaction seeds through functionalization allows the addition of other compounds to the fibers in the membranes synthesized using the complete extract.
Constructing a Sacred Site Overseas: The Japanese Reinvention of the Rujing Stūpa in Hangzhou
Authors: Zeng Xinrui
Published: December 2023

A sacred site that draws pilgrims from distant regions is a distinctive resource for studying religion. Research into a site’s relevance to pilgrims and how it came to be founded contributes to a better understanding of religious activity. To address these issues, a thorough historical analysis of a sacred site’s records is essential. Such an analysis endeavors to distinguish the historical facts of a sacred site from its narratives and further discusses the significance of each. With such intent, this study focuses on the Rujing Stupa, a sacred site of significant importance to transnational pilgrimages that has yet to receive sufficient scholarly attention. The stupa, which is located at the Jingci Monastery in Hangzhou, China, is believed to hold the relics of Tiantong Rujing 天童如浄 (1163–1228), a Song Dynasty monk. Although the modern stele inscription at this location indicates that the stupa was founded in the 13th century, shortly after the monk’s death, this paper examines the historical reinventions within the inscription and traces the influence of Japanese narratives on such a reinvention. This study demonstrates that the Rujing Stupa was established by, and for, the Japanese Sōtō Buddhists. The Chinese monk’s connection to the Sōtō pilgrims lies in Rujing’s role as the master who instructed Dōgen 道元 (1200–1253), the founder of the Sōtō tradition, making his stupa a sacred site for the Sōtō community. Concerns of commemoration and reifying doctrinal authenticity motivated two generations of Japanese pilgrims to construct the Rujing stupa in the late 19th and 20th centuries, respectively. On the other hand, Rujing’s significance and the presence of the Sōtō tradition were scarcely acknowledged in China until the early modern period. Only in the late 20th century did Chinese Buddhists begin to appreciate this stupa. Examining the site’s historical reinventions and identifying the factors that shape its narrative, this case study offers insights into the investigation of sacred sites and suggests a concern for narrative in the examination of a site’s history and significance.
The Common Good According to Great Men of Prayer and Economists: Comparisons, Connections, and Inspirations for Economics
Authors: Horodecka Anna , Żuk Andrzej J.
Published: December 2023

This paper aims to present and compare contemporary concepts of the common good formulated by economists with reference to the understanding of the common good by the great men of prayer: Augustine of Hippo; Thomas Aquinas; Jacques Maritain; and Popes John XXIII, John Paul II, and Francis. It seeks to determine in what direction the economic theory of the common good can develop, taking into account inspiration drawn from Catholic social teaching (CST). Given the interdisciplinary nature of the common good, a historical and interdisciplinary approach, along with the descriptive method, was adopted. The paper highlights the tendency of economic theory toward one-dimensional and relativistic concepts of the common good and suggests a search for economic ideas of the common good that are simultaneously multidimensional and universalistic. It recognizes the achievements of CST, created by the great men of prayer, in enhancing the understanding of the category of the common good and posits that these teachings can serve as research inspiration for economists.
Psychometric Characteristics of the Brazil Mood Scale among Youth and Elite Athletes Using Two Response Time Frames
Authors: Rohlfs Izabel Cristina Provenza de Miranda , Noce Franco , Gabbett Tim J. , Wilke Carolina , Vido Marcelo , Terry Victoria R. , Terry Peter C.
Published: December 2023

Regular assessment of the mood construct as an indicator of psychological wellbeing is used in Brazil to screen athletes for risk of mental health issues. The present study tested the psychometric characteristics of the Brazil Mood Scale (BRAMS) using both “right now” and “past week” response time frames and investigated between-group differences in mood based on athletes’ sex, age, and social vulnerability. Participants were 898 athletes (511 male, 387 female, age range: 12–44 years) from eight sports. The factorial validity of the BRAMS was supported using both response time frames independently and in a multi-sample analysis. Subscale reliability was supported for both time frames. Fatigue, depression, and tension scores were higher using the “past week” time frame than the “right now” time frame. Males reported higher vigor scores than females, and younger participants (<18 years) reported lower scores for anger and depression than older participants (18+ years). No significant differences in mood (p > 0.05) were found between participants identified as socially vulnerable and those who were not socially vulnerable. Findings supported the psychometric integrity of the BRAMS and its use as a screening measure for psychological wellbeing among youth and elite athletes in Brazil.
How Does Blue Infrastructure Affect the Attractiveness Rating of Residential Areas? Case Study of Olsztyn City, Poland
Authors: Dudzińska Małgorzata , Dawidowicz Agnieszka , Gross Marta
Published: December 2023

Blue Infrastructure (BI) is a system of water-based ecological and engineering interactions that provides multiple social and ecosystem benefits in an urbanized environment. The study answers the questions: (1) Can the assessment of the attractiveness of residential areas be influenced by the availability of water reservoirs with a specific functionality? (2) What are the indicators that determine this impact? The research aimed to develop a methodology for the evaluation of residential neighborhood spaces, considering the indicator of the functional value of water bodies and their accessibility. The following research hypothesis, that the recreational and esthetic functions of water bodies along with the accompanying infrastructure are the most attractive features that hold the greatest significance in evaluating residential areas close to them, was verified. Cartographic and field inventory studies were conducted to prove this. An inventory form was applied along with social research using a geo-survey to determine the ranking of individual water bodies. As part of the test of the developed method, all water bodies in the city of Olsztyn (northern Poland) were evaluated. The test revealed that the indicators related to the functional value of water bodies and their accessibility influence the assessment of the residential neighborhoods’ attractiveness. Therefore, they should be considered in the assessment of cities containing both natural and anthropogenic water bodies.
ESG Reporting and Metrics: From Double Materiality to Key Performance Indicators
Authors: Nielsen Christian
Published: December 2023

This article conceptualises the link between firms’ value chains and distribution networks and the requirements for double-materiality assessments in contemporary reporting regulations worldwide. The new European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) and the standards for sustainability reporting issued by the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB), called IFRS S1 and IFRS S2, require companies to report their own direct (scope 1) and indirect (scope 2) greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions as well as GHG emissions in their value chains and distribution networks (both scope 3). However, GHG emissions comprise just one dimension of information that is relevant to understand when assessing, managing and reporting the footprints and impacts of a firm and are, therefore, only a fraction of the key performance indicators (KPIs) related to ESG that should be disclosed. Through a case study, this article demonstrates the connection between a due diligence analysis of a firm’s value chains and distribution networks; an analysis of the competitive parameters of its business model; the identified impacts, risks and opportunities; and the double-materiality perspective. The double-materiality perspective prioritises actions based on probability and significance, creating a natural space to identify KPIs. The implication of this study is that firms can be assisted in identifying relevant KPIs based on double-materiality assessments aided by applying the REGS model because it guides firms in choosing the most relevant KPIs.