bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Properties, Microstructure Development and Life Cycle Assessment of Alkali-Activated Materials Containing Steel Slag under Different Alkali Equivalents
Authors: Ji Xin , Wang Xiaofeng , Zhao Xin , Wang Zhenjun , Zhang Haibao , Liu Jianfei
Published: December 2023

To improve solid waste resource utilization and environmental sustainability, an alkali-activated material (AAM) was prepared using steel slag (SS), fly ash, blast furnace slag and alkali activators in this work. The evolutions of SS content (10–50%) and alkali equivalent (4.0–8.0%) on workability, mechanical strength and environmental indicators of the AAM were investigated. Furthermore, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and nuclear magnetic resonance techniques were adopted to characterize micromorphology, reaction products and pore structure, and the reaction mechanism was summarized. Results showed that the paste fluidity and setting time gradually increased with the increase in SS content. The highest compressive strength was obtained for the paste at 8.0% alkali equivalent due to the improved reaction rate and process, but it also increased the risk of cracking. However, SS was able to exert a microaggregate filling effect, where SS particles filling the pores increased the structural compactness and hindered crack development. Based on the optimal compressive strength, global warming, abiotic resource depletion, acidification and eutrophication potential of the paste are reduced by 76.7%, 53.0%, 51.6%, and 48.9%, respectively, compared with cement. This work is beneficial to further improve the utilization of solid waste resources and expand the application of environmentally friendly AAMs in the field of construction engineering.
Research on the Electrosensitivity and Electrothermal Properties of Intelligent High-Performance Concrete Materials
Authors: Zhang Yunlong , Sun Huichao , Qian Xuesong , Wang Jing , Tan Guojin
Published: December 2023

In order to enhance traditional building materials, High-performance concrete (HPC) is being modified by adding carbon and basalt fibers with volume contents of 0.75–1.25% and 0.15–0.35%, respectively. The original mechanical properties are maintained while developing the material’s intelligent self-sensing and self-heating functions, which are tested for pressure sensitivity and bending sensitivity, and with electrothermal tests. The results demonstrate that carbon fiber can significantly reduce the matrix resistivity of high-performance concrete, reaching the percolation threshold at a content of 1%. The inclusion of basalt fibers in the material results in a decrease in resistivity. However, the addition of mixed fibers leads to improved mechanical–electrical sensitivity under compression and bending, with a positive hybrid effect. The optimal contents for carbon fiber and basalt are 0.75% and 0.3%, respectively. In electrothermal tests, the specimen can reach a temperature of 104.5 °C with a heating rate of 25.86 °C/h, indicating the potential for self-monitoring and the electric melting of ice and snow. These findings provide support for the intelligent improvement of building structures in the new era.
Tribocorrosion and Surface Protection Technology of Titanium Alloys: A Review
Authors: Li Yang , Zhou Zelong , He Yongyong
Published: December 2023

Titanium alloy has the advantages of high specific strength, good corrosion resistance, and biocompatibility and is widely used in marine equipment, biomedicine, aerospace, and other fields. However, the application of titanium alloy in special working conditions shows some shortcomings, such as low hardness and poor wear resistance, which seriously affect the long life and safe and reliable service of the structural parts. Tribocorrosion has been one of the research hotspots in the field of tribology in recent years, and it is one of the essential factors affecting the application of passivated metal in corrosive environments. In this work, the characteristics of the marine and human environments and their critical tribological problems are analyzed, and the research connotation of tribocorrosion of titanium alloy is expounded. The research status of surface protection technology for titanium alloy in marine and biological environments is reviewed, and the development direction and trends in surface engineering of titanium alloy are prospected.
A Novel Deterministic Probabilistic Forecasting Framework for Gold Price with a New Pandemic Index Based on Quantile Regression Deep Learning and Multi-Objective Optimization
Authors: Wang Yan , Lin Tong
Published: December 2023

The significance of precise gold price forecasting is accentuated by its financial attributes, mirroring global economic conditions, market uncertainties, and investor risk aversion. However, predicting the gold price is challenging due to its inherent volatility, influenced by multiple factors, such as COVID-19, financial crises, geopolitical issues, and fluctuations in other metals and energy prices. These complexities often lead to non-stationary time series, rendering traditional time series modeling methods inadequate. Our paper presents a multi-objective optimization algorithm that refines the interval prediction framework with quantile regression deep learning in response to this issue. This framework comprehensively responds to gold’s financial market dynamics and uncertainties with a screening process of various factors, including pandemic-related indices, geopolitical indices, the US dollar index, and prices of various commodities. The quantile regression deep-learning models optimized by multi-objective optimization algorithms deliver robust, interpretable, and highly accurate predictions for handling non-linear relationships and complex data structures and enhance the overall predictive performance. The results demonstrate that the QRBiLSTM model, optimized using the MOALO algorithm, delivers excellent forecasting performance. The composite indicator AIS reaches −15.6240 and −11.5581 at 90% and 95% confidence levels, respectively. This underscores the model’s high forecasting accuracy and its potential to provide valuable insights for assessing future trends in gold prices. The deterministic and probabilistic forecasting framework for gold prices captures the market dynamics with the new pandemic index and comprehensively sets a new benchmark for predictive modeling in volatile market commodities like gold.
Bohr’s Phenomenon for the Solution of Second-Order Differential Equations
Authors: Mondal Saiful R.
Published: December 2023

The aim of this work is to establish a connection between Bohr’s radius and the analytic and normalized solutions of two differential second-order differential equations, namely y″(z)+a(z)y′(z)+b(z)y(z)=0 and z2y″(z)+a(z)y′(z)+b(z)y(z)=d(z). Using differential subordination, we find the upper bound of the Bohr and Rogosinski radii of the normalized solution F(z) of the above differential equations. We construct several examples by judicious choice of a(z), b(z) and d(z). The examples include several special functions like Airy functions, classical and generalized Bessel functions, error functions, confluent hypergeometric functions and associate Laguerre polynomials.
Effects of Fe, Si, Cu, and TiB2 Grain Refiner Amounts on the Hot Tearing Susceptibility of 5083, 6061, and 7075 Aluminum Ingots
Authors: Liang Kai-Yu , Huang Hao-Chuan , Tseng Ching-Yao , Chen Mien-Chung , Lee Sheng-Long , Lin Chi-Cheng , Su Te-Cheng
Published: December 2023

Aluminum alloys 5083, 6061, and 7075 are prone to hot tearing under direct-chill casting conditions; the defects that form during solidification of those alloys are highly sensitive to variation in the alloying elements, with these elements commonly being Si, Fe, Cu, and Ti. This study investigates the influence of the morphology, content, and size of intermetallic compounds on the hot tearing behavior of the 5083, 6061, and 7075 aluminum alloys by combining a constrained rod casting technique, phase diagram calculation, and multiscale microstructural characterizations. The fishbone-shaped α-Al15(Fe,Mn)3Si2 in 5083 can serve as a path for crack nucleation and growth, and an increase in Si content results in Mg2Si assuming fishbone morphology, thereby increasing hot tearing susceptibility. The amount of plate-like β-Al5FeSi is the primary factor controlling the hot tearing susceptibility of 6061. For 7075, increasing the Cu content can greatly enhance the remaining liquid fraction, feeding, and hot tearing susceptibility. For all three alloys, TiB2 grain refiner minimizes hot tearing. This study elucidates the influences of the amounts of Fe, Si, Cu, and TiB2 grain refiner on hot tearing susceptibility. The findings can help establish compositional control standards for the 5083, 6061, and 7075 aluminum alloy series, particularly when the recycling rate must be increased.
Characterization of Various Stainless Steels Containing Gadolinium as Thermal Neutron Absorbing and Shielding Materials
Authors: Oh SeKwon , Ahn Ji-Ho , Jung Rockhoon , Kim Hyun-Jong , Chu Younghwan , Choi Dae Hyun , Lee Hyun , Jung Hyun-Do
Published: December 2023

Developing next-generation thermal-neutron-shielding and -absorbing materials for the safe storage and transportation of spent nuclear fuel is a topic of active research in academia. Gadolinium (Gd) boasts superior neutron absorption capacity compared with other nuclei. Consequently, it has garnered significant attention as a potential replacement for boron in spent nuclear fuel (SNF) applications. In this study, the austenitic stainless steels 304 and 316 and the duplex stainless steel 5A were reinforced with 2 wt.% of gadolinium to explore their thermal-neutron-absorbing efficiency. Their properties were then compared with commercial-grade borated stainless steel, as per ASTM standard A887. After the inclusion of Gd, both the yield strength and ultimate tensile strength of the alloys slightly increased, which was attributed to the evenly distributed Gd intermetallics within the matrix. However, the elongation rate was reduced. The Charpy impact absorption energy also decreased. The influence of the Gd intermetallic was further explored by examining the fractography. While the corrosion resistance of the alloy slightly diminished after the addition of Gd, its neutron absorption capacity demonstrated superior performance, especially when the Gd content was equivalent to that of boron. Although most properties of the experimental alloy deteriorated after the Gd addition, they still outperformed commercial borated stainless steel, suggesting that this alloy might be a promising candidate for SNF applications.
Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Kuwait: A Molecular and Genetic Analysis
Authors: Alfouzan Wadha A. , Boswihi Samar S. , Udo Edet E.
Published: December 2023

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a major pathogen that causes serious infections in healthcare facilities and in communities. The purpose of this study was to investigate MRSA isolates obtained in a tertiary hospital in Kuwait to assess their antibiotic susceptibility profile and clonal composition. Sixty MRSA isolates collected in 2020 were tested through antibiotic susceptibility testing, spa typing, and DNA microarray analysis. All isolates were found to be susceptible to vancomycin (MIC: ≤3 µg/mL), teicoplanin (MIC: ≤3 µg/mL), rifampicin, and mupirocin, but were resistant to fusidic acid (n = 43, 72%), trimethoprim (n = 27, 45%), ciprofloxacin (n = 31, 51.7%), gentamicin (n = 14; 23.3%), kanamycin (n = 20; 33.3%), chloramphenicol (n = 7; 11.7%), tetracycline (n = 17; 28.3%), erythromycin (n = 19; 31.6%), inducible clindamycin (n = 13; 21.7%), and constitutive clindamycin (n = 2; 3.3%). The isolates belonged to 30 spa types and 13 clonal complexes (CCs). The dominant spa types were t304, t442, t311, t688, and t1234, collectively constituting 28.3% of the isolates. The dominant CCs were CC5 and CC6, which together constituted 46.7% of the isolates. This study provides updated research on antibiotic resistance and changes in the clonal composition of MRSA in a Kuwait hospital, including the disappearance of the ST239-MRSA-III clone that was previously the dominant clone in this hospital.
Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei Infection in Shrimp: Diagnosis, Interventions, and Food Safety Guidelines
Authors: Govindasamy Thenmoli , Bhassu Subha , Raju Chandramathi Samudi
Published: December 2023

The emergence of disease in shrimp has governed much concern in food safety and security among consumers with the recent reports on hepatopancreatic microsporidiosis (HPM) caused by Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei (EHP). The microsporidians present in shrimp remain a silent pathogen that prevents optimal shrimp growth. However, the biggest threat is in its food safety concerns, which is the primary focus in ensuring food biosecurity and biosafety. Hence, the objective of this review is to summarise the current knowledge of EHP and its infection in shrimp with food safety concerns. This paper provides an analysis of the diagnostic methods for detecting EHP infections in shrimp aquaculture. Interventions with current molecular biology and biotechnology would be the second approach to addressing EHP diseases. Finally, a systematic guideline for shrimp food safety using diagnostic and intervention is proposed. Thus, this review was aimed to shed light on effective methods for the diagnosis and prevention of EHP infection in shrimp. We also include information on molecular and genomics tools as well as innate immune biomolecules as future targets in the intervention strategies on the microsporidsosis life cycle in shrimp and its environment. Overall, this will result in reduced disease outbreaks in shrimp aquaculture, ensuring the shrimp food safety in the future.
A Triplet/Singlet Ground-State Switch via the Steric Inhibition of Conjugation in 4,6-Bis(trifluoromethyl)-1,3-phenylene Bisnitroxide
Authors: Haga Nagito , Ishida Takayuki
Published: December 2023

Ground triplet 4,6-bis(trifluoromethyl)-1,3-phenylene bis(tert-butyl nitroxide) (TF2PBN) reacted with [Y(hfac)3(H2O)2] (hfac = 1,1,1,5,5,5-hexafluoropentane-2,4-dionate), affording a doubly hydrogen-bonded adduct [Y(hfac)3(H2O)2(TF2PBN)]. The biradical was recovered from the adduct through recrystallization. Crystallographic analysis indicates that the torsion angles (|θ| ≤ 90°) between the benzene ring and nitroxide groups were 74.9 and 84.8° in the adduct, which are larger than those of the starting material TF2PBN. Steric congestion due to o-trifluoromethyl groups gives rise to the reduction of π-conjugation. Two hydrogen bonds enhance this deformation. Susceptometry of the adduct indicates a ground singlet with 2J/kB = −128(2) K, where 2J corresponds to the singlet–triplet gap. The observed magneto-structure relation is qualitatively consistent with Rajca’s pioneering work. A density functional theory calculation at the UB3LYP/6-311+G(2d,p) level using the atomic coordinates determined provided a result of 2J/kB = −162.3 K for the adduct, whilst the corresponding calculation on intact TF2PBN provided +87.2 K. After a comparison among a few known compounds, the 2J vs. |θ| plot shows a negative slope with a critical torsion of 65(3)°. The ferro- and antiferromagnetic coupling contributions are balanced in TF2PBN, being responsible for ground-state interconversion by means of small structural perturbation like hydrogen bonds.
Rivastigmine–Bambuterol Hybrids as Selective Butyrylcholinesterase Inhibitors
Authors: Wu Jie , Tan Zekai , Pistolozzi Marco , Tan Wen
Published: December 2023

Selective butyrylcholinesterase inhibitors are considered promising drug candidates for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. In this work, one rivastigmine–bambuterol hybrid (MTR-1) and fourteen of its analogues were synthesized, purified, and characterized. In vitro cholinesterase assays showed that all the compounds were more potent inhibitors of BChE when compared to AChE. Further investigations indicated that MTR-3 (IC50(AChE) > 100,000 nM, IC50(BChE) = 78 nM) was the best compound in the series, showing high butyrylcholinesterase selectivity and inhibition potency, the potential to permeate the blood–brain barrier, and longer-lasting BChE inhibition than bambuterol. These compounds could be used to discover novel specific BChE inhibitors for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.
Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal Imprinted by Microlens Array for Enhanced Outcoupling Efficiency of Organic Light Emitting Diode
Authors: Lim Seongmin , Ahn Hyeon-Sik , Jang Eun-Jeong , Boo So-Young , Gasonoo Akpeko , Gwag Jin-Seog , Lee Jae-Hyun , Choi Yoonseuk
Published: December 2023

In this paper, we demonstrate the use of polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) imprinted with a microlens array (MLA) via solution process to improve the outcoupling efficiency of organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs). The PDLC, well known for its scattering effect, is an excellent technology for improving the outcoupling efficiency of OLEDs. Additionally, we introduce a simple spin-coating process to fabricate PDLC which is adaptable for future solution-processed OLEDs. The MLA-imprinted PDLC applied OLED shows an enhancement factor of 1.22 in outcoupling efficiency which is a 37.5% increase compared to the existing PDLC techniques without changing the electrical properties of the OLED. Through this approach, we can expect the roll-to-roll based extremely flexible OLED, and with further research on pattering PDLC by various templates, higher outcoupling efficiency is achievable through a simple UV irradiation process.
Assessment of the Effects of Roasting, Contact Grilling, Microwave Processing, and Steaming on the Functional Characteristics of Bell Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.)
Authors: Olędzki Remigiusz , Harasym Joanna
Published: December 2023

Bell peppers (Capsicum annuum L.) in various stages of maturity are widely used in the diets of individuals and in the food industry; they are consumed both fresh and after thermal processing. However, every type of processing impacts the overall textural and bioactive characteristics of this plant-based food. In order to quantify the changes in the bioactive substances and color-structural characteristics that occur during selected heat treatments (contact grilling, roasting, roasting combined with microwaving, and steam cooking) of bell peppers at three maturity stages (green, yellow, and red), analyses of antioxidant activity, reducing sugar content, polyphenolic compound content, textural properties, and color coordinates in the L*a*b* system were carried out. Some of the processes used, such as contact grilling (15.43 mg GAE/g d.b.) and roasting combined with microwaving (15.24 mg GAE/g d.b.), proved to be beneficial as the total polyphenol content of green peppers (2.75 mg GAE/g d.b.) increased. The roasting (3.49 mg TE/g d.b.) and steaming (6.45 mg TE/g d.b.) methods decreased the antioxidant activity of yellow bell peppers (14.29 mg TE/g d.b.). Meanwhile, the roasting (0.88 mg Glc/g d.b.), contact-grilling (2.19 mg Glc/g d.b.), simultaneous microwaving and roasting (0.66 mg Glc/g d.b.), and steaming (1.30 mg Glc/g d.b.) methods significantly reduced the content of reducing sugars and reducing substances in red bell peppers (4.41 mg Glc/g d.b.). The studies proved that in order to preserve the antioxidant and bioactive properties of bell peppers, it is necessary to consider the use of appropriately selected heat treatments, depending on the different stages of maturity. The proper selection of adequate thermal treatment can not only increase digestibility, but also improve the bioavailability of bioactive substances from this raw material.
Internal Vibrations of Pyridinium Cation in One-Dimensional Halide Perovskites and the Corresponding Halide Salts
Authors: Samsonova Anna Yu. , Mikheleva Alena Yu. , Bulanin Kirill M. , Selivanov Nikita I. , Mazur Anton S. , Tolstoy Peter M. , Stoumpos Constantinos C. , Kapitonov Yury V.
Published: December 2023

We investigate vibrations of the pyridinium cation PyH+ = C5H5NH+ in one-dimensional lead halide perovskites PyPbX3 and pyridinium halide salts PyHX (X− = I−, Br−), combining infrared absorption and Raman scattering methods at room temperature. Internal vibrations of the cation were assigned based on density functional theory modeling. Some of the vibrational bands are sensitive to perovskite or the salt environment in the solid state, while halide substitution has only a minor effect on them. These findings have been confirmed by 1H, 13C and 207Pb solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) experiments. Narrower vibrational bands in perovskites indicate less disorder in these materials. The splitting of NH-group vibrational bands in perovskites can be rationalized the presence of nonequivalent crystal sites for cations or by more exotic phenomena such as quantum tunneling transition between two molecular orientations. We have shown how organic cations in hybrid organic–inorganic crystals could be used as spectators of the crystalline environment that affects their internal vibrations.
Detection and Removal of Aristolochic Acid in Natural Plants, Pharmaceuticals, and Environmental and Biological Samples: A Review
Authors: Wang Changhong , Liu Yunchao , Han Jintai , Li Wenying , Sun Jing , Wang Yinan
Published: December 2023

Aristolochic acids (AAs) are a toxic substance present in certain natural plants. Direct human exposure to these plants containing AAs leads to a severe and irreversible condition known as aristolochic acid nephropathy (AAN). Additionally, AAs accumulation in the food chain through environmental mediators can trigger Balkan endemic nephropathy (BEN), an environmental variant of AAN. This paper presents a concise overview of the oncogenic pathways associated with AAs and explores the various routes of environmental exposure to AAs. The detection and removal of AAs in natural plants, drugs, and environmental and biological samples were classified and summarized, and the advantages and disadvantages of the various methods were analyzed. It is hoped that this review can provide effective insights into the detection and removal of AAs in the future.
pH-Dependent HEWL-AuNPs Interactions: Optical Study
Authors: Molkova Elena A. , Pustovoy Vladimir I. , Stepanova Evgenia V. , Gorudko Irina V. , Astashev Maxim E. , Simakin Alexander V. , Sarimov Ruslan M. , Gudkov Sergey V.
Published: December 2023

Optical methods (spectroscopy, spectrofluorometry, dynamic light scattering, and refractometry) were used to study the change in the state of hen egg-white lysozyme (HEWL), protein molecules, and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) in aqueous colloids with changes in pH, and the interaction of protein molecules with nanoparticles was also studied. It was shown that changing pH may be the easiest way to control the protein corona on gold nanoparticles. In a colloid of nanoparticles, both in the presence and absence of protein, aggregation–deaggregation, and in a protein colloid, monomerization–dimerization–aggregation are the main processes when pH is changed. A specific point at pH 7.5, where a transition of the colloidal system from one state to another is observed, has been found using all the optical methods mentioned. It has been shown that gold nanoparticles can stabilize HEWL protein molecules at alkaline pH while maintaining enzymatic activity, which can be used in practice. The data obtained in this manuscript allow for the state of HEWL colloids and gold nanoparticles to be monitored using one or two simple and accessible optical methods.
Main Colonic Metabolites from Coffee Chlorogenic Acid May Counteract Tumor Necrosis Factor-α-Induced Inflammation and Oxidative Stress in 3T3-L1 Cells
Authors: Goya Luis , Sánchez-Medina Andrea , Redondo-Puente Mónica , Dupak Rudolf , Bravo Laura , Sarriá Beatriz
Published: December 2023

Obesity is coupled with an altered redox state and low-level inflammation. Oxidative stress may increase pre-adipocyte proliferation, adipocyte differentiation and mature adipocyte size. Regarding inflammation, the dysregulation of cytokine production by adipose tissue takes place in obesity, which is promoted by oxidative stress. Polyphenols may exert a positive effect on obesity, not only by modulating the redox state, but also due to their anti-inflammatory activity. Coffee, which is one of the most consumed beverages, is very rich in phenolic compounds. Bioavailability studies on coffee phenols have shown that the most abundant group of metabolites in plasma and urine are dihydrocaffeic (DHCA), dihydroferulic (DHFA), and hydroxyhippuric (HHA) acids, the three acids of colonic origin. To better understand the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of DHCA, DHFA, and HHA, an inflammation/oxidation model was set up in the pre-adipocyte 3T3-L1 cell line using tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). After the exposure of 3T3-L1 cells to 0.5, 1, 5, and 10 µM of TNF-α at different times, the cell viability, interleukin (IL)-6 secretion, and the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and glutathione (GSH) were determined. Using the TNF-α prooxidant and proinflammatory conditions established (10 µM, 24 h), it was observed that the physiological concentrations (0.5, 1, 5, and 10 µM) of DHCA, DHFA, and HHA induced dose-dependent antioxidant effects according to the ROS, GSH, and antioxidant enzyme (glutathione peroxidase) results. In addition, reductions in the IL-1β, IL-6, and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) concentrations were observed to different extents depending on the metabolite (DHFA, HHA, or DHCA) and the concentration used. In conclusion, the main colonic metabolites from coffee chlorogenic acids may counteract TNF-α-induced inflammation and oxidative stress in the 3T3-L1 cell line, and thus, they present antiobesity potential.
“NO” Time in Fear Response: Possible Implication of Nitric-Oxide-Related Mechanisms in PTSD
Authors: Fronza Mariana G. , Ferreira Bruna F. , Pavan-Silva Isabela , Guimarães Francisco S. , Lisboa Sabrina F.
Published: December 2023

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric condition characterized by persistent fear responses and altered neurotransmitter functioning due to traumatic experiences. Stress predominantly affects glutamate, a neurotransmitter crucial for synaptic plasticity and memory formation. Activation of the N-Methyl-D-Aspartate glutamate receptors (NMDAR) can trigger the formation of a complex comprising postsynaptic density protein-95 (PSD95), the neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), and its adaptor protein (NOS1AP). This complex is pivotal in activating nNOS and nitric oxide (NO) production, which, in turn, activates downstream pathways that modulate neuronal signaling, including synaptic plasticity/transmission, inflammation, and cell death. The involvement of nNOS and NOS1AP in the susceptibility of PTSD and its comorbidities has been widely shown. Therefore, understanding the interplay between stress, fear, and NO is essential for comprehending the maintenance and progression of PTSD, since NO is involved in fear acquisition and extinction processes. Moreover, NO induces post-translational modifications (PTMs), including S-nitrosylation and nitration, which alter protein function and structure for intracellular signaling. Although evidence suggests that NO influences synaptic plasticity and memory processing, the specific role of PTMs in the pathophysiology of PTSD remains unclear. This review highlights pathways modulated by NO that could be relevant to stress and PTSD.
Analysis of the Free Amino Acid Profile of Barley Grain from Organic Fertilisation with Ash from Biomass Combustion
Authors: Czernicka Maria , Puchalski Czesław , Pawlak Renata , Szostek Małgorzata , Szpunar-Krok Ewa
Published: December 2023

Fertilisation with ash from biomass combustion has a positive effect on the quality of nutrients in agrifood raw materials, improving their chemical composition and bioavailability. In the experiments carried out, the protein content and the profile of free amino acids in barley flour were examined from cultivation fertilised with biomass ash at various doses. Barley flour from Haplic Luvisol soil was characterised by a significantly higher (by 13.8% on average) total protein content compared to flour obtained from grains from Gleyic Chernozem soil. The highest protein content but a low content of free amino acids were found in the grains of plants fertilised with the mineral NPK (D1). An increase in the total pool of free amino acids in flour was observed, especially in the case of Haplic Luvisol soil. On average, after fertilising, significantly more ASP, ASN, GLU, GLY, ALA, and CYS were obtained in variant D4 (1.5 t·ha−1), and there were also significantly more TAU and GABA than in the control, up by 30.2% and 23%, respectively. A beneficial effect of fertilisation on the essential amino acid content in barley flour was found, but only up to the dose of D4, when it was significantly higher than in the control and under mineral fertilising (D1), up by 23.7% and 9.2%, respectively. High ash doses reduced the content of free amino acids in the tested barley flour. This study confirmed that using an alternative method of fertilising with plant biomass ash has a beneficial effect on protein quality and nutritional value.
Lignin Extraction by Using Two-Step Fractionation: A Review
Authors: Tanis Medya Hatun , Wallberg Ola , Galbe Mats , Al-Rudainy Basel
Published: December 2023

Lignocellulosic biomass represents the most abundant renewable carbon source on earth and is already used for energy and biofuel production. The pivotal step in the conversion process involving lignocellulosic biomass is pretreatment, which aims to disrupt the lignocellulose matrix. For effective pretreatment, a comprehensive understanding of the intricate structure of lignocellulose and its compositional properties during component disintegration and subsequent conversion is essential. The presence of lignin-carbohydrate complexes and covalent interactions between them within the lignocellulosic matrix confers a distinctively labile nature to hemicellulose. Meanwhile, the recalcitrant characteristics of lignin pose challenges in the fractionation process, particularly during delignification. Delignification is a critical step that directly impacts the purity of lignin and facilitates the breakdown of bonds involving lignin and lignin-carbohydrate complexes surrounding cellulose. This article discusses a two-step fractionation approach for efficient lignin extraction, providing viable paths for lignin-based valorization described in the literature. This approach allows for the creation of individual process streams for each component, tailored to extract their corresponding compounds.
Synthesis, Structure, Biological Activity, and Luminescence Properties of a “Butterfly”-Type Silver Cluster with 3-Benzyl-4-phenyl-1,2,4-triazol-5-thiol
Authors: Yambulatov Dmitriy S. , Lutsenko Irina A. , Baravikov Dmitry E. , Dolgushin Fedor M. , Astaf’eva Tatiana V. , Bekker Olga B. , Nersisyan Lusik G. , Samvelyan Melanya A. , Ghochikyan Tariel V. , Kiskin Mikhail A. , Eremenko Igor L. , Ivanov Vladimir K.
Published: December 2023

A new silver(I) cluster [Ag8L4(Py)(Pype)]·4Py·11H2O (I) with 3-benzyl-4-phenyl-1,2,4-triazol-5-thiol (L) was synthesized via the direct reaction of AgNO3 and L in MeOH, followed by recrystallization from a pyridine–piperidine mixture. The compound I was isolated in a monocrystal form and its crystal structure was determined via single crystal X-ray diffraction. The complex forms a “butterfly” cluster with triazol-5-thioles. The purity of the silver complex and its stability in the solution was confirmed via NMR analysis. Excitation and emission of the free ligand and its silver complex were studied at room temperature for solid samples. The in vitro biological activity of the free ligand and its complex was studied in relation to the non-pathogenic Mycolicibacterium smegmatis strain. Complexation of the free ligand with silver increases the biological activity of the former by almost twenty times. For the newly obtained silver cluster, a bactericidal effect was established.
Asymmetric Monomethine Cyanine Dyes with Hydrophobic Functionalities for Fluorescent Intercalator Displacement Assay
Authors: Ilieva Sonia , Bozova Nadezhda , Rangelov Miroslav , Todorova Nadezhda , Vasilev Aleksey , Cheshmedzhieva Diana
Published: December 2023

A new green procedure has been applied for the synthesis and purification of asymmetric monomethine cyanine dyes. The photophysical properties of the newly synthesized compounds have been examined by combined application of spectroscopic and theoretical methods. The structural characteristics of the molecules and dimer formation were characterized by quantum chemical computation and juxtaposed to the aggregachromism in UV/Vis spectra. The applicability of the dyes as fluorogenic nucleic acid probes has been proven by fluorescence titration, and their binding constants have been calculated. The mode of ligand–dsDNA/RNA interaction was rationalized by means of CD spectroscopy, molecular docking analysis, and fluorescent intercalator displacement experiments.
Inter-Varietal Variation in Phenolic Profile, Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory and Analgesic Activities of Two Brassica rapa Varieties: Influence on Pro-Inflammatory Mediators
Authors: Nazar Nida , Hussain Abdullah Ijaz , Rathore Hassaan Anwer
Published: December 2023

The present research study aims to appraise the potential of polyphenol-rich extracts from two Brassica rapa varieties on antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities using carrageenan-induced paw edema model in rats. Methanol extracts of peels and pulps of Brassica rapa yellow root (BRYR) and Brassica rapa white root (BRWR) were prepared using the soxhlet extraction technique. All four extracts were analyzed by reversed-phase high-pressure liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) for the polyphenols, and results showed that 10 phenolic acids and 4 flavonoids were detected. Gallic acid was the major phenolic acid (174.6–642.3 mg/100 g of dry plant material) while catechin was the major (34.45–358.5 mg/100 g of dry plant material) flavonoid detected in the extracts. The total phenolic contents (TPC) of BRYR peel, BRWR peel, BRYR pulp and BRWR pulp extracts were in the range of 1.21–5.01 mg/g of dry plant material, measured as GAE, whereas the total flavonoid contents (TFC) were found in the range of 0.90–3.95 mg/g of dry plant material, measured as QE. BRYR peel extract exhibited the best DPPH radical scavenging activity (IC50, 3.85 µg/mL) and reducing potential as compared with other extracts. The in vivo anti-inflammatory potential was assessed by carrageenan-induced rat paw edema, and the analgesic potential was investigated by a hot plate test. Suppression of biochemical inflammatory biomarkers including C-reactive protein (CRP), rheumatoid factor (RF) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) concentration were also determined. Results showed that BRYR peel extracts reduced paw edema and suppressed the production of TNF-α, IL-6, CRP and RF most significantly, followed by BRWR peel, BRYR pulp and BRWR pulp extracts. In addition, histopathology observation also supports the anti-inflammatory effect of peel extracts as being greater than that of root pulp extracts. Moreover, it was observed that the analgesic effect of the root-peel extracts was also more pronounced as compared with root-pulp extracts. It can be concluded that BRYR peel extract has higher phenolic contents and showed higher suppression of TNF-α, IL-6, CRP and RF, with strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.
Carnosic Acid Shows Higher Neuroprotective Efficiency than Edaravone or Ebselen in In Vitro Models of Neuronal Cell Damage
Authors: Jantas Danuta , Warszyński Piotr , Lasoń Władysław
Published: December 2023

This study compared the neuroprotective efficacy of three antioxidants—the plant-derived carnosic acid (CA), and two synthetic free radical scavengers: edaravone (ED) and ebselen (EB)—in in vitro models of neuronal cell damage. Results showed that CA protected mouse primary neuronal cell cultures against hydrogen peroxide-induced damage more efficiently than ED or EB. The neuroprotective effects of CA were associated with attenuation of reactive oxygen species level and increased mitochondrial membrane potential but not with a reduction in caspase-3 activity. None of the tested substances was protective against glutamate or oxygen-glucose deprivation-evoked neuronal cell damage, and EB even increased the detrimental effects of these insults. Further experiments using the human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells showed that CA but not ED or EB attenuated the cell damage induced by hydrogen peroxide and that the composition of culture medium is the critical factor in evaluating neuroprotective effects in this model. Our data indicate that the neuroprotective potential of CA, ED, and EB may be revealed in vitro only under specific conditions, with their rather narrow micromolar concentrations, relevant cellular model, type of toxic agent, and exposure time. Nevertheless, of the three compounds tested, CA displayed the most consistent neuroprotective effects.
Clinical and Microbiological Risk Factors for 30-Day Mortality of Bloodstream Infections Caused by OXA-48-Producing Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Lumbreras-Iglesias Pilar , Rodrigo-Arrazola Edurne , López-Amor Lucía , Fernández-Suárez Jonathan , Rodicio María Rosario , Fernández Javier
Published: December 2023

Bloodstream infections (BSI) caused by carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae are associated with high morbidity and mortality, and the therapy options available for their treatment are frequently scarce. The aim of this study was to analyze risk factors for 30-day mortality in patients with BSI caused by OXA-48-producing K. pneumoniae. The clinical and treatment features of the patients, who attended a single hospital over a five-year period, were retrospectively reviewed. The microbiological features, including the sequence types (ST) and the somatic (O) and capsular (K) antigens, as well as their resistance properties, comprising phenotypes and genetic background, were also considered. To identify the risk factors for 30-day mortality, uni- and multivariate statistical analyses were performed. The univariate analysis revealed statistically significant correlations for age, male gender, lower respiratory system infection, infection by ST147 isolates, and infection by isolates expressing the K64 antigen. The multivariate analysis, applied to variables yielding p-values close to or lower than 0.05 in the univariate analysis, confirmed gender, lower respiratory system infection, and infection with ST147 isolates, but not age or infection with K64 isolates, as risk factors for 30-day mortality. Moreover, the multivariate analysis showed that patients suffering from hematological malignancies or having been treated with inappropriate therapy, both having p-values slightly higher than 0.05 in the univariate analysis, exhibited significantly poorer outcomes in the multivariant analysis. The association of the ST147 clone with an increased risk of mortality is a novel finding that deserves further attention. Studies like the one presented here can certainly benefit the management of patients with nosocomial BSI caused by carbapenemase-producing K. pneumoniae.
Management Challenges of Extrapulmonary Nontuberculous Mycobacterial Infection: A Single-Center Case Series and Literature Review
Authors: Kiselinova Maja , Naesens Leslie , Huis In ’t Veld Diana , Boelens Jerina , Van Braeckel Eva , Vande Weygaerde Yannick , Callens Steven
Published: December 2023

Extrapulmonary nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) disease remains largely enigmatic, yet these mycobacteria are increasingly acknowledged as important opportunistic pathogens in humans. Traditionally, NTM infections have been identified across various anatomical locations, with the respiratory system being the most affected and best understood. Historically, extrapulmonary NTM infection was predominantly associated with HIV/AIDS, with Mycobacterium avium lymphadenopathy being the most commonly reported. Today, however, because of the expanding utilization of immunosuppressive therapies and the demographic shift towards an aging population, an increasing number of NTM infections are expected and seen. Hence, a heightened index of suspicion is essential, necessitating a multifaceted approach to identification and drug sensitivity testing to improve treatment outcomes. In extrapulmonary NTM management, expert consultation is strongly recommended to determine the most efficacious treatment regimen, as individualized, patient-tailored therapies are often required. Furthermore, the economic burden of NTM disease is considerable, accompanied by high rates of hospitalization. To optimize the management of these intricate infections, there is an urgent need for comprehensive data on incidence, prevalence, and outcomes. This case-based series delves into the intricate nature of extrapulmonary NTM infections, focusing on both rapid and slow-growing NTM species, and explores therapeutic options, resistance mechanisms, and host-related immunological factors.
Rapid Determination of Ochratoxin A in Black Tea Using Terahertz Ultrasensitive Biosensor
Authors: Chen Gan , Liu Bingwei , Lu Ping , Peng Yan
Published: December 2023

Ochratoxin A (OTA), which is highly toxic and carcinogenic, is easily produced in cereal crops, dry herbs, and other foods under improper storage. Traditional detection methods, including high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), can detect OTA accurately, but there are many problems such as long period, high cost, and poor reproducibility. Therefore, developing a rapid, non-destructive, and highly sensitive method for OTA detection is essential. In this paper, we used a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) biosensor combined with terahertz (THz) spectroscopy to quantify OTA. As a result, the concentration range of OTA in acetonitrile solution was up to 0–20 pg/μL, with a detection limit of 1 pg/μL, which can meet the requirements for OTA detection in most foods. Further, we applied this method to black tea, and the detection limit was up to 1 pg/mg, which is 500 times higher than UV spectrophotometry, and completely meets the EU regulations. This study shows that the combination of terahertz spectroscopy and an SPR biosensor is a promising approach to achieve a simple, rapid, and low-cost method for trace substance quantification in foods and drugs.
A Multi-Output Regression Model for Energy Consumption Prediction Based on Optimized Multi-Kernel Learning: A Case Study of Tin Smelting Process
Authors: Wang Zhenglang , Feng Zao , Ma Zhaojun , Peng Jubo
Published: December 2023

Energy consumption forecasting plays an important role in energy management, conservation, and optimization in manufacturing companies. Aiming at the tin smelting process with multiple types of energy consumption and a strong coupling with energy consumption, the traditional prediction model cannot be applied to the multi-output problem. Moreover, the data collection frequency of different processes is inconsistent, resulting in few effective data samples and strong nonlinearity. In this paper, we propose a multi-kernel multi-output support vector regression model optimized based on a differential evolutionary algorithm for the prediction of multiple types of energy consumption in tin smelting. Redundant feature variables are eliminated using the distance correlation coefficient method, multi-kernel learning is introduced to improve the multi-output support vector regression model, and a differential evolutionary algorithm is used to optimize the model hyperparameters. The validity and superiority of the model was verified using the energy consumption data of a non-ferrous metal producer in Southwest China. The experimental results show that the proposed model outperformed multi-output Gaussian process regression (MGPR) and a multi-layer perceptron neural network (MLPNN) in terms of measurement capability. Finally, this paper uses a grey correlation analysis model to discuss the influencing factors on the integrated energy consumption of the tin smelting process and gives corresponding energy-saving suggestions.
Cryptanalysis and Improvement of Several Identity-Based Authenticated and Pairing-Free Key Agreement Protocols for IoT Applications
Authors: Sun Haiyan , Li Chaoyang , Zhang Jianwei , Liang Shujun , Huang Wanwei
Published: December 2023

Internet of Things (IoT) applications have been increasingly developed. Authenticated key agreement (AKA) plays an essential role in secure communication in IoT applications. Without the PKI certificate and high time-complexity bilinear pairing operations, identity-based AKA (ID-AKA) protocols without pairings are more suitable for protecting the keys in IoT applications. In recent years, many pairing-free ID-AKA protocols have been proposed. Moreover, these protocols have some security flaws or relatively extensive computation and communication efficiency. Focusing on these problems, the security analyses of some recently proposed protocols have been provided first. We then proposed a family of eCK secure ID-AKA protocols without pairings to solve these security problems, which can be applied in IoT applications to guarantee communication security. Meanwhile, the security proofs of these proposed ID-AKA protocols are provided, which show they can hold provable eCK security. Some more efficient instantiations have been provided, which show the efficient performance of these proposed ID-AKA protocols. Moreover, comparisons with similar schemes have shown that these protocols have the least computation and communication efficiency at the same time.
Software Defined Radio for GNSS Radio Frequency Interference Localization
Authors: Taylor Fred , Gattis Evan , Trapani Lucca , Akos Dennis , Lo Sherman , Walter Todd , Chen Yu-Hsuan
Published: December 2023

The use of radio direction finding techniques in order to identify and reject harmful interference has been a topic of discussion both past and present for signals in the GNSS bands. Advances in commercial off-the-shelf radio hardware have led to the development of new low-cost, compact, phase coherent receiver platforms such as the KrakenSDR from KrakenRF whose testing and characterization will be the primary focus of this paper. Although not specifically designed for GNSSs, the capabilities of this platform are well aligned with the needs of GNSSs. Testing results from both benchtop and in the field will be displayed which verify the KrakenSDR’s phase coherence and angle of arrival estimates to array dependent resolution bounds. Additionally, other outputs from the KrakenSDR such as received signal strength indicators and the angle of arrival confidence values show strong connections to angle of arrival estimate quality. Within this work the testing that will be primarily presented is at 900 MHz, with results presented from a government-sponsored event where the Kraken was tested at 1575.42 MHz. Finally, a discussion of calibration of active antenna arrays for angle of arrival is included as the introduction of active antenna elements used in GNSS signal collection can influence angle of arrival estimation.