bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Towards Carbon-Neutral Cities: Urban Classification Based on Physical Environment and Carbon Emission Characteristics
Authors: Lee Jiah , Jung Seunghyun
Published: April 2023

Cities are highly industrialized and populated areas and major sources of greenhouse gas emissions. For carbon neutrality, examining the correlation between urban characteristics and greenhouse gas emissions is necessary. This study aimed to analyze the characteristics of each city from a carbon neutrality perspective. As such, we conducted a carbon-neutral city analysis. First, the physical environmental variables of 250 municipal, county, and district local governments were collected and constructed and then reduced and purified through factor analysis. Second, the type was derived by performing cluster analysis on the reduced factor variables and carbon emissions by analysis unit. Finally, the characteristics of each type were analyzed, and the carbon-neutral city planning and applicable carbon-neutral technology fields were proposed according to the characteristics. After the categorization of carbon-neutral cities throughout Korea, six cluster types were derived; cities in each cluster had similar characteristics. This study suggests that solutions for carbon reduction should be applied by comprehensively considering the social, economic, and environmental characteristics of each city. It concludes that regional physical environmental indicators and energy consumption statistics can be used comprehensively to establish effective policies and apply technologies and techniques at the local government level.
DHX37 and NR5A1 Variants Identified in Patients with 46,XY Partial Gonadal Dysgenesis
Authors: de Oliveira Felipe Rodrigues , Mazzola Taís Nitsch , de Mello Maricilda Palandi , Francese-Santos Ana Paula , Lemos-Marini Sofia Helena V. de , Maciel-Guerra Andrea Trevas , Hiort Olaf , Werner Ralf , Guerra-Junior Gil , Fabbri-Scallet Helena
Published: April 2023

The group of disorders known as 46,XY gonadal dysgenesis (GD) is characterized by anomalies in testis determination, including complete and partial GD (PGD) and testicular regression syndrome (TRS). Several genes are known to be involved in sex development pathways, however approximately 50% of all cases remain elusive. Recent studies have identified variants in DHX37, a gene encoding a putative RNA helicase essential in ribosome biogenesis and previously associated with neurodevelopmental disorders, as a cause of PGD and TRS. To investigate the potential role of DHX37 in disorders of sexual development (DSD), 25 individuals with 46,XY DSD were analyzed and putative pathogenic variants were found in four of them. WES analyses were performed on these patients. In DHX37, the variant p.(Arg308Gln), recurrent associated with DSD, was identified in one patient; the p.(Leu467Val), predicted to be deleterious, was found together with an NR5A1 loss-of-function variant in patient 2; and, the p.(Val999Met) was identified in two unrelated patients, one of whom (patient 3) also carried a pathogenic NR5A1 variant. For both patients carrying DHX37 and NR5A1 pathogenic variants, a digenic inheritance is suggested. Our findings support the importance of DHX37 variants as a cause of disorders of sex development, implying a role in testis development.
Effect of Substrate Roughness and Contact Scale on the Tribological Performance of MoS2 Coatings
Authors: Wang Chen , Zhang Jianjun , Le Kai , Niu Yuqi , Gao Xiaoming , Che Qinglun , Xu Shusheng , Liu Yuzhen , Liu Weimin
Published: April 2023

This present study aimed to clarify the effect of contact scale and surface topography of substrates with different roughnesses on the actual contact area, tangential stiffness, and tangential deformation of the substrate at micro- and macro-scales via finite element method (FEM) simulations, as well as the final tribological performances of MoS2 coatings by experiments. The MoS2 coatings were deposited on stainless steel (SS) substrates with different roughnesses, and the settings in the simulation models were based on the roughness of the SS substrates. The predicted tribological behavior of the simulation results was confirmed by the morphological and compositional analysis of the wear track using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), 3D profilometer, and Raman spectroscopy. The results showed that the substrate with a surface roughness of Ra 600 nm (R600), coated by MoS2 nanosheets, exhibited excellent tribological properties at both micro- and macro-scales. At the micro-scale, the lubrication lifetime of R600 was as long as 930 cycles, while the substrates with surface roughnesses of Ra 60 nm (R60) and Ra 6 nm (R6) had a lubrication lifetime of 290 cycles and 47 cycles, respectively. At the macro-scale, the lifetime of the substrate R600 was 9509 cycles, which was nearly six times longer than the 1616 cycles of substrate R60. For the rough surface of substrate, the surface grooves could not only effectively preserve the lubricant but also continuously release them, ensuring that the lubricants with low shear strength were always present in the contact interface. It was further verified that the high surface roughness of the substrate reduced friction and wear by reducing the actual contact area and enhancing the tangential stiffness of asperities, thereby prolonging the lubrication lifetime. The wear mechanisms were discussed in terms of the morphology and chemical composition of the wear tracks.
A Review of Trends in Corrosion-Resistant Structural Steels Research—From Theoretical Simulation to Data-Driven Directions
Authors: Xu Di , Pei Zibo , Yang Xiaojia , Li Qing , Zhang Fan , Zhu Renzheng , Cheng Xuequn , Ma Lingwei
Published: April 2023

This paper provides a review of models commonly used over the years in the study of microscopic models of material corrosion mechanisms, data mining methods and the corrosion-resistant performance control of structural steels. The virtual process of material corrosion is combined with experimental data to reflect the microscopic mechanism of material corrosion from a nano-scale to macro-scale, respectively. Data mining methods focus on predicting and modeling the corrosion rate and corrosion life of materials. Data-driven control of the corrosion resistance of structural steels is achieved through micro-alloying and organization structure control technology. Corrosion modeling has been used to assess the effects of alloying elements, grain size and organization purity on corrosion resistance, and to determine the contents of alloying elements.
Material’s Strength Analysis of the Coupling Node of Axle of the Truck Trailer
Authors: Decker Živilė , Tretjakovas Jurijus , Drozd Kazimierz , Rudzinskas Vitalijus , Walczak Mariusz , Kilikevičius Artūras , Matijosius Jonas , Boretska Iryna
Published: April 2023

Road transport plays an important role in the transport of goods and people and is important for the national economy. Damage usually excludes the means of transport from operation, which causes disruption of supply chains. One such damage is the failure of the suspension system of the vehicle or trailer, which usually occurs when the vehicle is heavily loaded. Such a defective system has been analyzed in this publication. Mathematical apparatus and finite element method (FEM) numerical simulations were used. A dangerous axle cross-section in terms of load was indicated and the maximum stresses in this area were calculated for two types of roads. On highways, the stress at the critical point was 199 MPa, and on uneven roads it increased to 304 MPa, which is comparable to the yield point. It was found that the second form of vibration may cause stresses in the damage area, but the excitation frequency would have to be quite high. The probability of such a load and failure event occurring is low under operating conditions.
The Impact of Differentiated Carbon Taxes on New Enterprises’ Strategies When Entering Original Markets with Different Degrees of Market Competition
Authors: Zheng Jialin , Zhou Ya , Li Keqiang , Zeng Yang , Wang Ruining , Zhang Canmin
Published: April 2023

We view the development of industries with various market competition levels as a dynamic process and investigate the game between a new entrant and the original market with variable market competition degrees under the premise of considering the entry and exit of companies in the industry. Based on this, we explore the prerequisites for the new firm to enter the initial market and construct a recursive formula for the optimal output of individual firms entering the market one at a time, as well as the conditions for the new firm to enter the market in the three scenarios of the original market being mixed strategy, low-carbon type, and traditional type, respectively, and the optimal decision-making behavior once entering the market. We create diversified carbon tax rates for various cost bands of low-carbon production patterns in order to modify the original traditional market and allow the new enterprise to enter the market using a low-carbon production strategy. We anticipate that our study will serve as a theoretical guide for accomplishing a low-carbon shift in production patterns.
Learned-Index-Based Semantic Keyword Query on Blockchain
Authors: Yao Zhongming , Xin Junchang , Hao Kun , Wang Zhiqiong , Zhu Wancheng
Published: April 2023

Blockchain has become increasingly popular for data management in recent years. However, the existing blockchain systems lack efficient semantic queries, particularly keyword queries. To address this issue, we propose a learned-index-based semantic keyword query architecture on blockchain. First, our architecture records data semantics information to support semantic keyword queries. Second, we establish the lookup table index for semantic information among blocks and the block-level recursive model index for blocks to improve the query efficiency. We store the lookup table in the extended block headers to maintain the result’s completeness, and we store recursive model indexes off chain to optimize the maintenance efficiency. Third, we propose a verifiable query algorithm based on our proposed architecture to maintain the result’s correctness. Finally, the experimental results show that combining the lookup table and the learned index effectively improves the query efficiency on blockchain.
Synthesis of Nonlinear Nonstationary Stochastic Systems by Wavelet Canonical Expansions
Authors: Sinitsyn Igor , Sinitsyn Vladimir , Korepanov Eduard , Konashenkova Tatyana
Published: April 2023

The article is devoted to Bayes optimization problems of nonlinear observable stochastic systems (NLOStSs) based on wavelet canonical expansions (WLCEs). Input stochastic processes (StPs) and output StPs of considered nonlinearly StSs depend on random parameters and additive independent Gaussian noises. For stochastic synthesis we use a Bayes approach with the given loss function and minimum risk condition. WLCEs are formed by covariance function expansion coefficients of two-dimensional orthonormal basis of wavelet with a compact carrier. New results: (i) a common Bayes’ criteria synthesis algorithm for NLOStSs by WLCE is presented; (ii) partial synthesis algorithms for three of Bayes’ criteria (minimum mean square error, damage accumulation and probability of error exit outside the limits) are given; (iii) an approximate algorithm based on statistical linearization; (iv) three test examples. Applications: wavelet optimization and parameter calibration in complex measurement and control systems. Some generalizations are formulated.
Text Simplification to Specific Readability Levels
Authors: Alkaldi Wejdan , Inkpen Diana
Published: April 2023

The ability to read a document depends on the reader’s skills and the text’s readability level. In this paper, we propose a system that uses deep learning techniques to simplify texts in order to match a reader’s level. We use a novel approach with a reinforcement learning loop that contains a readability classifier. The classifier’s output is used to decide if more simplification is needed, until the desired readability level is reached. The simplification models are trained on data annotated with readability levels from the Newsela corpus. Our simplification models perform at sentence level, to simplify each sentence to meet the specified readability level. We use a version of the Newsela corpus aligned at the sentence level. We also produce an augmented dataset by automatically annotating more pairs of sentences using a readability-level classifier. Our text simplification models achieve better performance than state-of-the-art techniques for this task.
Labeling of Baropodometric Analysis Data Using Computer Vision Techniques in Classification of Foot Deformities
Authors: Babović Siniša S. , Vujović Mia , Stilinović Nebojša P. , Jeftić Ostoja , Novaković Aleksa D.
Published: April 2023

Background and Objectives: Foot deformities are the basis of numerous disorders of the locomotor system. An optimized method of classification of foot deformities would enable an objective identification of the type of deformity since the current assessment methods do not show an optimal level of objectivity and reliability. The acquired results would enable an individual approach to the treatment of patients with foot deformities. Thus, the goal of this research study was the development of a new, objective model for recognizing and classifying foot deformities with the application of machine learning, by labeling baropodometric analysis data using computer vision methods. Materials and Methods: In this work, data from 91 students of the Faculty of Medicine and the Faculty of Sports and Physical Education, University of Novi Sad were used. Measurements were determined by using a baropodometric platform, and the labelling process was carried out in the Python programming language, using functions from the OpenCV library. Segmentation techniques, geometric transformations, contour detection and morphological image processing were performed on the images, in order to calculate the arch index, a parameter that gives information about the type of the foot deformity. Discussion: The foot over which the entire labeling method was applied had an arch index value of 0.27, which indicates the accuracy of the method and is in accordance with the literature. On the other hand, the method presented in our study needs further improvement and optimization, since the results of the segmentation techniques can vary when the images are not consistent. Conclusions: The labeling method presented in this work provides the basis for further optimization and development of a foot deformity classification system.
Assessment of Prescribing Practices and Factors Related to Antibiotic Prescribing in Community Pharmacies
Authors: Rabbani Syed Arman , Sridhar Sathvik B. , Safdar Maryam , Rao Padma G. M. , Jaber Ammar Ali Saleh , AlAhmad Mohammad M. , Shaar Khaled , Emad Israa , Azim Muhammad Abdul
Published: April 2023

Background and Objectives: Overprescribing of antibiotics is one of the important contributors of antimicrobial resistance globally. A high proportion of antibiotics prescribed in community settings are unnecessary or inappropriate. This study assesses the prescribing practices and factors related to antibiotic prescribing in community pharmacies in United Arab Emirates (UAE). Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study utilizing a quantitative approach was carried out in the community pharmacies of Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), UAE. Six hundred and thirty prescription encounters from 21 randomly selected community pharmacies were investigated using World Health Organization (WHO) core prescribing indicators. Factors related to antibiotic prescribing were identified using logistic regression analyses. Results: In 630 prescription encounters, a total of 1814 drugs were prescribed. Out of these, the most commonly prescribed drug class was antibiotics (43.8% prescriptions) and the antibiotic was amoxicillin/clavulanic-acid (22.4%). The average number of drugs per prescription was 2.88, which was higher than the WHO recommended value of 1.6–1.8. In addition, more than half of the prescriptions (58.6%) had drugs by generic names and the majority of the drugs prescribed (83.8%) were from the essential drug list, which were lower than the optimal values of 100%. The majority of the antibiotics prescribed in the study were from the WHO’s Access group antibiotics. Multivariable logistic regression analysis identified patient age (children—OR: 7.40, 95% CI: 2.32–23.62, p = 0.001 and adolescent—OR: 5.86, 95% CI: 1.57–21.86, p = 0.008), prescriber qualification as general practitioner (OR: 1.84, 95% CI:1.30–2.60, p = 0.001), and number of drugs per prescription (OR: 3.51, 95% CI: 1.98–6.21, p < 0.001) as independent factors associated with antibiotic prescribing. Conclusions: This study reveals considerable variations from the WHO recommendations for the different prescribing indicators in the community pharmacies of RAK, UAE. In addition, the study reports overprescribing of antibiotics in the community setting, indicating the need for interventions to promote rational use of antibiotics in a community setting.
The States and Properties of Germanium in Sulfuric Acid Solution
Authors: Song Leiting , Di Haokai , Liang Ming , Hong Yan , Zeng Yiner , Yang Kun , Zhang Libo
Published: April 2023

In recent years, with the development of science and technology, the strategic position of germanium is becoming more and more important, and the global demand for germanium is also increasing. At present, there is no unified description of the existence form of germanium in solutions. Based on the current mainstream acid leaching process of germanium, this paper studies the existing form and properties of germanium in sulfuric acid solutions. Through the characterization and analysis of Raman, FTIR, and XPS of three concentrations of pure germanium solution, it is clear that germanium mainly exists in the form of H2GeO3 and some Ge4+ in sulfuric acid solution. Through the Tyndall effect and zeta potential, it is determined that H2GeO3 exists in the form of colloid in sulfuric acid solution. With the increase of germanium concentration, H2GeO3 will polymerize in a sulfuric acid solution to form polygermanic acid, and the H2GeO3 colloidal dispersion system becomes more stable. This study clarifies the existing form and properties of germanium in sulfuric acid solution, which is of great significance to the leaching extraction of germanium-containing materials and the development of the germanium industry.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Metabolic Dysfunction, and Periodontitis—Machine Learning and Statistical Analyses of the Dental, Oral, Medical Epidemiological (DOME) Big Data Study
Authors: Ytzhaik Noya , Zur Dorit , Goldstein Chen , Almoznino Galit
Published: April 2023

This study aimed to analyze the associations of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) with dental parameters while controlling for socio-demographics, health-related habits, and each of the diseases comprising metabolic syndrome (MetS), its consequences, and related conditions. We analyzed data from the dental, oral, and medical epidemiological (DOME) cross-sectional records-based study that combines comprehensive socio-demographic, medical, and dental databases of a nationally representative sample of military personnel for one year. Analysis included statistical and machine learning models. The study included 132,529 subjects; of these, 318 (0.2%) were diagnosed with OSA. The following parameters maintained a statistically significant positive association with OSA in the multivariate binary logistic regression analysis (descending order from highest to lowest OR): obesity (OR = 3.104 (2.178–4.422)), male sex (OR = 2.41 (1.25–4.63)), periodontal disease (OR = 2.01 (1.38–2.91)), smoking (OR = 1.45 (1.05–1.99)), and age (OR = 1.143 (1.119–1.168)). Features importance generated by the XGBoost machine learning algorithm were age, obesity, and male sex (located on places 1–3), which are well-known risk factors of OSA, as well as periodontal disease (fourth place) and delivered dental fillings (fifth place). The Area Under Curve (AUC) of the model was 0.868 and the accuracy was 0.92. Altogether, the findings supported the main hypothesis of the study, which was that OSA is linked to dental morbidity, in particular to periodontitis. The findings highlight the need for dental evaluation as part of the workup of OSA patients and emphasizes the need for dental and general medical authorities to collaborate by exchanging knowledge about dental and systemic morbidities and their associations. The study also highlights the necessity for a comprehensive holistic risk management strategy that takes systemic and dental diseases into account.
Role of Elevated Ozone on Development and Metabolite Contents of Lemongrass [Cymbopogon flexuosus (Steud.) (Wats.)]
Authors: Madheshiya Parvati , Gupta Gereraj Sen , Sahoo Ansuman , Tiwari Supriya
Published: April 2023

The present study was conducted to assess the effect of elevated ozone stress on the development and metabolite contents of lemongrass, a medicinal plant. The experimental plant was exposed to two elevated ozone concentrations (ambient + 15 ppb, and ambient + 30 ppb) using open-top chambers. Samplings were carried out at 45 and 90 days after transplantation (DAT), for the analysis of different characteristics, while the metabolite contents of leaves and essential oils were analyzed at 110 DAT. Both the doses of elevated ozone had notable negative effects on the carbon fixation efficiency of plants, resulting in a significant reduction in plant biomass. Enzymatic antioxidant activity increased during the second sampling, which suggests that the scavenging of reactive oxygen species was more prominent in lemongrass during the later developmental stage. The results of the present study showed a stimulated diversion of resources towards the phenylpropanoid pathway, which is made evident by the increase in the number and contents of metabolites in foliar extract and essential oils of plants grown at elevated ozone doses, as compared to ambient ozone. Elevated ozone not only upregulated the contents of medicinally important components of lemongrass, it also induced the formation of some pharmaceutically active bio compounds. On the basis of this study, it is expected that increasing ozone concentrations in near future will enhance the medicinal value of lemongrass. However, more experiments are required to validate these findings.
Application of Lipidomics in Psychiatry: Plasma-Based Potential Biomarkers in Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder
Authors: Costa Alana , Riça Larissa , van de Bilt Martinus , Zandonadi Flávia , Gattaz Wagner , Talib Leda , Sussulini Alessandra
Published: April 2023

In this study, we obtained a lipidomic profile of plasma samples from drug-naïve patients with schizophrenia (SZ) and bipolar disorder (BD) in comparison to healthy controls. The sample cohort consisted of 30 BD and 30 SZ patients and 30 control individuals. An untargeted lipidomics strategy using liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry was employed to obtain the lipid profiles. Data were preprocessed, then univariate (t-test) and multivariate (principal component analysis and orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis) statistical tools were applied to select differential lipids, which were putatively identified. Afterward, multivariate receiver operating characteristic tests were performed, and metabolic pathway networks were constructed, considering the differential lipids. Our results demonstrate alterations in distinct lipid pathways, especially in glycerophospholipids, sphingolipids and glycerolipids, between SZ and BD patients. The results obtained in this study may serve as a basis for differential diagnosis, which is crucial for effective treatment and improving the quality of life of patients with psychotic disorders.
Polymer Ring–Flexure–Membrane Suspended Gate FET Gas Sensor: Design, Modelling and Simulation
Authors: Zacharias Joel , Martha Pramod , Seena V.
Published: April 2023

This work reports the design, modelling, and simulation of a novel polymer MEMS gas sensor platform called a ring–flexure–membrane (RFM) suspended gate field effect transistor (SGFET). The sensor consists of a suspended polymer (SU-8) MEMS based RFM structure holding the gate of the SGFET with the gas sensing layer on top of the outer ring. During gas adsorption, the polymer ring–flexure–membrane architecture ensures a constant gate capacitance change throughout the gate area of the SGFET. This leads to efficient transduction of the gas adsorption-induced nanomechanical motion input to the change in the output current of the SGFET, thus improving the sensitivity. The sensor performance has been evaluated for sensing hydrogen gas using the finite element method (FEM) and TCAD simulation tools. The MEMS design and simulation of the RFM structure is carried out using CoventorWare 10.3, and the design, modelling, and simulation of the SGFET array is carried out using the Synopsis Sentaurus TCAD. A differential amplifier circuit using RFM-SGFET is designed and simulated in Cadence Virtuoso using the lookup table (LUT) of the RFM-SGFET. The differential amplifier exhibits a sensitivity of 2.8 mV/MPa for a gate bias of 3 V and a maximum detection range of up to 1% hydrogen gas concentration. This work also presents a detailed fabrication process integration plan to realize the RFM-SGFET sensor using a tailored self-aligned CMOS process adopting the surface micromachining process.
Microfluidics: Insights into Intestinal Microorganisms
Authors: Qi Ping , Lv Jin , Yan Xiangdong , Bai Liuhui , Zhang Lei
Published: April 2023

Microfluidics is a system involving the treatment or manipulation of microscale (10−9 to 10−18 L) fluids using microchannels (10 to 100 μm) contained on a microfluidic chip. Among the different methodologies used to study intestinal microorganisms, new methods based on microfluidic technology have been receiving increasing attention in recent years. The intestinal tracts of animals are populated by a vast array of microorganisms that have been established to play diverse functional roles beneficial to host physiology. This review is the first comprehensive coverage of the application of microfluidics technology in intestinal microbial research. In this review, we present a brief history of microfluidics technology and describe its applications in gut microbiome research, with a specific emphasis on the microfluidic technology-based intestine-on-a-chip, and also discuss the advantages and application prospects of microfluidic drug delivery systems in intestinal microbial research.
Focus and Insights into the Synthetic Biology-Mediated Chassis of Economically Important Fungi for the Production of High-Value Metabolites
Authors: Tiwari Pragya , Dufossé Laurent
Published: April 2023

Substantial progress has been achieved and knowledge gaps addressed in synthetic biology-mediated engineering of biological organisms to produce high-value metabolites. Bio-based products from fungi are extensively explored in the present era, attributed to their emerging importance in the industrial sector, healthcare, and food applications. The edible group of fungi and multiple fungal strains defines attractive biological resources for high-value metabolites comprising food additives, pigments, dyes, industrial chemicals, and antibiotics, including other compounds. In this direction, synthetic biology-mediated genetic chassis of fungal strains to enhance/add value to novel chemical entities of biological origin is opening new avenues in fungal biotechnology. While substantial success has been achieved in the genetic manipulation of economically viable fungi (including Saccharomyces cerevisiae) in the production of metabolites of socio-economic relevance, knowledge gaps/obstacles in fungal biology and engineering need to be remedied for complete exploitation of valuable fungal strains. Herein, the thematic article discusses the novel attributes of bio-based products from fungi and the creation of high-value engineered fungal strains to promote yield, bio-functionality, and value-addition of the metabolites of socio-economic value. Efforts have been made to discuss the existing limitations in fungal chassis and how the advances in synthetic biology provide a plausible solution.
New Concept Ocean-Bottom Multiphysics (OBMP) Nodes for Reservoir Monitoring
Authors: Menezes Paulo , Zerilli Andrea , Correa Jorlivan , Menor Everton , Ferreira Sergio , Labruzzo Tiziano
Published: April 2023

Marine-controlled source electromagnetics (CSEM) have been extensively applied to various exploration scenarios worldwide. However, its perceived value and cost relative to seismic and the scarcity of realistic case studies have limited the industry’s interest in time-lapse reservoir-monitoring (4D) applications. A feasible way to make demand for CSEM for 4D-monitoring programs would be to increase the value of information and reduce survey costs by performing joint operations where seismic and CSEM data are acquired during the same survey and at equivalent spatial densities. To this end, we propose a new multiphysics ocean-bottom nodes (OBN) concept and show the industry that CSEM can be a cost efficient and effective integrators to 4D seismic projects. To this end, we conducted a feasibility study demonstrating that horizontal magnetic field components have the required sensitivities and can be used instead of horizontal electric field components in mapping the 3D resistivity distribution and 4D fluid change responses in a given reservoir. This makes engineering a new OBN class simpler and cheaper, as various miniaturized magnetic field sensors are available off-the-shelf or readily working along with packaging and coupling solutions.
Multiresidue Determination of 26 Quinolones in Poultry Feathers Using UPLC-MS/MS and Their Application in Residue Monitoring
Authors: Song Zhanteng , Xiao Zhiming , Fan Xia , Zhuang Hongting , Li Yang , Zhu Jingrong , Zhao Duoyong , Paerhati Maerhaba , Suo Decheng
Published: April 2023

As a non-traditional sample matrix, feather samples can be used to effectively monitor antibiotic addition and organismal residue levels in poultry feeding. Therefore, an ultra-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) method was developed to simultaneously determine the residue levels of 26 quinolones in poultry feathers. The feather samples were extracted by sonication with a 1% formic acid and acetonitrile mixture in a water bath at 50 °C for 30 min, purified by the adsorption of multiple matrix impurities, dried with nitrogen, redissolved, and analyzed by UPLC-MS/MS. The linearity, limit of detection (LOD), limit of quantification (LOQ), recovery and precision were calculated. The 26 antibiotics demonstrated good linearity in the linear range. The recoveries and coefficients of variation were 78.9–110% and <13.7% at standard spiked levels of 10, 100 and 200 μg/kg, respectively. The LOD and LOQ were 0.12–1.31 and 0.96–2.60 μg/kg, respectively. The method also successfully identified quinolone residues in 50 poultry feather samples. The results showed that quinolones can accumulate and stabilize for a certain period of time after transferring from the body to the feathers of poultry.
Targeting Chondroitin Sulphate Synthase 1 (Chsy1) Promotes Axon Growth Following Neurorrhaphy by Suppressing Versican Accumulation
Authors: Liu Chiung-Hui , Ho Ying-Jui , Wang Che-Yu , Hsu Chao-Chun , Chu Yin-Hung , Hsu Min-Yen , Chen Shiu-Jau , Hsiao Wen-Chuan , Liao Wen-Chieh
Published: April 2023

Versican is a chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan (CSPG), which deposits in perineurium as a physical barrier and prevents the growth of axons out of the fascial boundary. Several studies have indicated that the chondroitin sulfate (CS) chains on versican have several possible functions beyond the physical barrier, including the ability to stabilize versican core protein in the extracellular matrix. As chondroitin sulfate synthase 1 (Chsy1) is a crucial enzyme for CS elongation, we hypothesized that in vivo knockdown of Chsy1 at peripheral nerve lesion site may decrease CS and versican accumulation, and result in accelerating neurite regeneration. In the present study, end-to-side neurorrhaphy (ESN) in Wistar rats was used as an in vivo model of peripheral nerve injury to evaluate nerve regeneration after surgical intervention. The distribution and expression of versican and Chsy1 in regenerating axons after ESN was studied using confocal microscopy and western blotting. Chsy1 was silenced at the nerve lesion (surgical) site using in vivo siRNA transfection. The results indicated that Chsy1 was successfully silenced in nerve tissue, and its downregulation was associated with functional recovery of compound muscle action potential. Silencing of Chsy1 also decreased the accumulation of versican core protein, suggesting that transient treating of Chsy1-siRNA may be an alternative and an effective strategy to promote injured peripheral nerve regeneration.
Combination Chemotherapy with Selected Polyphenols in Preclinical and Clinical Studies—An Update Overview
Authors: Jakobušić Brala Cvijeta , Karković Marković Ana , Kugić Azra , Torić Jelena , Barbarić Monika
Published: April 2023

This review article describes studies published over the past five years on the combination of polyphenols, which are the most studied in the field of anticancer effects (curcumin, quercetin, resveratrol, epigallocatechin gallate, and apigenin) and chemotherapeutics such as cisplatin, 5-fluorouracil, oxaliplatin, paclitaxel, etc. According to WHO data, research has been limited to five cancers with the highest morbidity rate (lung, colorectal, liver, gastric, and breast cancer). A systematic review of articles published in the past five years (from January 2018 to January 2023) was carried out with the help of all Web of Science databases and the available base of clinical studies. Based on the preclinical studies presented in this review, polyphenols can enhance drug efficacy and reduce chemoresistance through different molecular mechanisms. Considering the large number of studies, curcumin could be a molecule in future chemotherapy cocktails. One of the main problems in clinical research is related to the limited bioavailability of most polyphenols. The design of a new co-delivery system for drugs and polyphenols is essential for future clinical research. Some polyphenols work in synergy with chemotherapeutic drugs, but some polyphenols can act antagonistically, so caution is always required.
17-β-Estradiol—β-Cyclodextrin Complex as Solid: Synthesis, Structural and Physicochemical Characterization
Authors: Mazurek Anna Helena , Szeleszczuk Łukasz , Bethanis Kostas , Christoforides Elias , Dudek Marta Katarzyna , Zielińska-Pisklak Monika , Pisklak Dariusz Maciej
Published: April 2023

17-β-estradiol (EST) is the most potent form of naturally occurring estrogens; therefore, it has found a wide pharmaceutical application. The major problem associated with the use of EST is its very low water solubility, resulting in poor oral bioavailability. To overcome this drawback, a complexation with cyclodextrins (CD) has been suggested as a solution. In this work, the host–guest inclusion complex between the ß-CD and EST has been prepared using four different methods. The obtained samples have been deeply characterized using 13C CP MAS solid state NMR, PXRD, FT-IR, TGA, DSC, and SEM. Using SCXRD, the crystal structure of the complex has been determined, being to the best of our knowledge the first solved crystal structure of an estrogen/CD complex. The periodic DFT calculations of NMR properties using GIPAW were found to be particularly helpful in the analysis of disorder in the solid state and interpretation of experimental NMR results. This work highlights the importance of a combined ssNMR/SCXRD approach to studying the structure of the inclusion complexes formed by cyclodextrins.
The Effect of Y Content on Structural and Sorption Properties of A2B7-Type Phase in the La–Y–Ni–Al–Mn System
Authors: Jensen Emil H. , Lombardo Loris , Girella Alessandro , Guzik Matylda N. , Züttel Andreas , Milanese Chiara , Whitfield Pamela , Noréus Dag , Sartori Sabrina
Published: April 2023

Metal hydrides are an interesting group of chemical compounds, able to store hydrogen in a reversible, compact and safe manner. Among them, A2B7-type intermetallic alloys based on La-Mg-Ni have attracted particular attention due to their high electrochemical hydrogen storage capacity (∼400 mAh/g) and extended cycle life. However, the presence of Mg makes their synthesis via conventional metallurgical routes challenging. Replacing Mg with Y is a viable approach. Herein, we present a systematic study for a series of compounds with a nominal composition of La2-xYxNi6.50Mn0.33Al0.17, x = 0.33, 0.67, 1.00, 1.33, 1.67, focusing on the relationship between the material structural properties and hydrogen sorption performances. The results show that while the hydrogen-induced phase amorphization occurs in the Y-poor samples (x < 1.00) already during the first hydrogen absorption, a higher Y content helps to maintain the material crystallinity during the hydrogenation cycles and increases its H-storage capacity (1.37 wt.% for x = 1.00 vs. 1.60 wt.% for x = 1.67 at 50 °C). Thermal conductivity experiments on the studied compositions indicate the importance of thermal transfer between powder individual particles and/or a measuring instrument.
Semi-Rational Design of L-Isoleucine Dioxygenase Generated Its Activity for Aromatic Amino Acid Hydroxylation
Authors: An Jianhong , Guan Jiaojiao , Nie Yao
Published: April 2023

Fe (II)-and 2-ketoglutarate-dependent dioxygenases (Fe (II)/α-KG DOs) have been applied to catalyze hydroxylation of amino acids. However, the Fe (II)/α-KG DOs that have been developed and characterized are not sufficient. L-isoleucine dioxygenase (IDO) is an Fe (II)/α-KG DO that specifically catalyzes the formation of 4-hydroxyisoleucine (4-HIL) from L-isoleucine (L-Ile) and exhibits a substrate specificity toward L-aliphatic amino acids. To expand the substrate spectrum of IDO toward aromatic amino acids, in this study, we analyzed the regularity of the substrate spectrum of IDO using molecular dynamics (MD) simulation and found that the distance between Fe2+, C2 of α-KG and amino acid chain’s C4 may be critical for regulating the substrate specificity of the enzyme. The mutation sites (Y143, S153 and R227) were also subjected to single point saturation mutations based on polarity pockets and residue free energy contributions. It was found that Y143D, Y143I and S153A mutants exhibited catalytic L-phenylalanine activity, while Y143I, S153A, S153Q and S153Y exhibited catalytic L-homophenylalanine activity. Consequently, this study extended the substrate spectrum of IDO with aromatic amino acids and enhanced its application property.
The Good News, the Bad News, and the Ugly Truth: A Review on the 3D Interaction of Light Field Displays
Authors: Kara Peter A. , Simon Aniko
Published: April 2023

Light field displays offer glasses-free 3D visualization, which means that multiple individuals may observe the same content simultaneously from a virtually infinite number of perspectives without the need of viewing devices. The practical utilization of such visualization systems include various passive and active use cases. In the case of the latter, users often engage with the utilized system via human–computer interaction. Beyond conventional controls and interfaces, it is also possible to use advanced solutions such as motion tracking, which may seem seamless and highly convenient when paired with glasses-free 3D visualization. However, such solutions may not necessarily outperform conventional controls, and their true potentials may fundamentally depend on the use case in which they are deployed. In this paper, we provide a review on the 3D interaction of light field displays. Our work takes into consideration the different requirements posed by passive and active use cases, discusses the numerous challenges, limitations and potentials, and proposes research initiatives that could progress the investigated field of science.
Unbiased and Signal-Weakening Photoelectrochemical Hexavalent Chromium Sensing via a CuO Film Photocathode
Authors: Lu Wenxiang , Ma Lu , Ke Shengchen , Zhang Rouxi , Zhu Weijian , Qin Linling , Wu Shaolong
Published: April 2023

Photoelectrochemical (PEC) sensors show great potential for the detection of heavy metal ions because of their low background noise, high sensitivity, and ease of integration. However, the detection limit is relatively high for hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) monitoring in addition to the requirement of an external bias. Herein, a CuO film is readily synthesized as the photoactive material via reactive sputtering and thermal annealing in the construction of a PEC sensing photocathode for Cr(VI) monitoring. A different mechanism (i.e., Signal-Weakening PEC sensing) is confirmed by examining the electrochemical impedance and photocurrent response of different CuO film photoelectrodes prepared with the same conditions in contact with various solutions containing concentration-varying Cr(VI) for different durations. The detection of Cr(VI) is successfully achieved with the Signal-Weakening PEC response; a drop of photocathode signal with an increasing Cr(VI) concentration from the steric hindrance effect of the in situ formed Cr(OH)3 precipitates. The photocurrent of the optimized CuO film photocathode linearly declines as the concentration of Cr(VI) increases from 0.08 to 20 µM, with a detection limit down to 2.8 nM (Signal/Noise = 3) and a fitted sensitivity of 4.22 µA·μM−1. Moreover, this proposed sensing route shows operation simplicity, satisfactory selectivity, and reproducibility.
Radial Nano-Heterojunctions Consisting of CdS Nanorods Wrapped by 2D CN:PDI Polymer with Deep HOMO for Photo-Oxidative Water Splitting, Dye Degradation and Alcohol Oxidation
Authors: Kumar Pawan , Vahidzadeh Ehsan , Alam Kazi M. , Laishram Devika , Cui Kai , Shankar Karthik
Published: April 2023

Solar energy harvesting using semiconductor photocatalysis offers an enticing solution to two of the biggest societal challenges, energy scarcity and environmental pollution. After decades of effort, no photocatalyst exists which can simultaneously meet the demand for excellent absorption, high quantum efficiency and photochemical resilience/durability. While CdS is an excellent photocatalyst for hydrogen evolution, pollutant degradation and organic synthesis, photocorrosion of CdS leads to the deactivation of the catalyst. Surface passivation of CdS with 2D graphitic carbon nitrides (CN) such as g-C3N4 and C3N5 has been shown to mitigate the photocorrosion problem but the poor oxidizing power of photogenerated holes in CN limits the utility of this approach for photooxidation reactions. We report the synthesis of exfoliated 2D nanosheets of a modified carbon nitride constituted of tris-s-triazine (C6N7) linked pyromellitic dianhydride polydiimide (CN:PDI) with a deep oxidative highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) position, which ensures sufficient oxidizing power for photogenerated holes in CN. The heterojunction formed by the wrapping of mono-/few layered CN:PDI on CdS nanorods (CdS/CN:PDI) was determined to be an excellent photocatalyst for oxidation reactions including photoelectrochemical water splitting, dye decolorization and the photocatalytic conversion of benzyl alcohol to benzaldehyde. Extensive structural characterization using HR-TEM, Raman, XPS, etc., confirmed wrapping of few-layered CN:PDI on CdS nanorods. The increased photoactivity in CdS/CN:PDI catalyst was ascribed to facile electron transfer from CdS to CN:PDI in comparison to CdS/g-C3N4, leading to an increased electron density on the surface of the photocatalyst to drive chemical reactions.
Life Cycle Analysis of a Green Solvothermal Synthesis of LFP Nanoplates for Enhanced LIBs in Chile
Authors: Cofré Patricio , Viton María de Lucia , Ushak Svetlana , Grágeda Mario
Published: April 2023

Despite the structural and electrochemical advantages of LiFePO4 (LFP) as a cathode material, the solid-state reaction commonly used as a method to produce it at the industrial level has known disadvantages associated with high energy and fossil fuel consumption. On the other hand, solution-based synthesis methods present a more efficient way to produce LFP and have advantages such as controlled crystal growth, homogeneous morphology, and better control of pollutant emissions because the reaction occurs within a closed system. From an environmental point of view, different impacts associated with each synthesis method have not been studied extensively. The use of less polluting precursors during synthesis, as well as efficient use of energy and water, can provide new insights into the advantages of each cathode material for more environmentally friendly batteries. In this work, a solvothermal method is compared to a solid-state synthesis method commonly used to elaborate LFPs at the commercial level in order to evaluate differences in the environmental impacts of both processes. The solvothermal method used was developed considering the reutilization of solvent, water reflux, and a low thermal treatment to reduce pollutant emissions. As a result, a single high crystallinity olivine phase LFP was successfully synthesized. The use of ethylene glycol (EG) as a reaction medium enabled the formation of crystalline LFP at a low temperature (600 °C) with a nano-plate-like shape. The developed synthesis method was evaluated using life cycle analysis (LCA) to compare its environmental impact against the conventional production method. LCA demonstrated that the alternative green synthesis process represents 60% and 45% of the Resource Depletion impact category (water and fossil fuels, respectively) of the conventional method. At the same time, in the Climate change and Particular matter impact categories, the values correspond to 49 and 38% of the conventional method, respectively.
Fast-Response Micro-Phototransistor Based on MoS2/Organic Molecule Heterojunction
Authors: Andleeb Shaista , Wang Xiaoyu , Dong Haiyun , Valligatla Sreeramulu , Saggau Christian Niclaas , Ma Libo , Schmidt Oliver G. , Zhu Feng
Published: April 2023

Over the past years, molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) has been the most extensively studied two-dimensional (2D) semiconductormaterial. With unique electrical and optical properties, 2DMoS2 is considered to be a promising candidate for future nanoscale electronic and optoelectronic devices. However, charge trapping leads to a persistent photoconductance (PPC), hindering its use for optoelectronic applications. To overcome these drawbacks and improve the optoelectronic performance, organic semiconductors (OSCs) are selected to passivate surface defects, tune the optical characteristics, and modify the doping polarity of 2D MoS2. Here, we demonstrate a fast photoresponse in multilayer (ML) MoS2 by addressing a heterojunction interface with vanadylphthalocyanine (VOPc) molecules. The MoS2/VOPc van der Waals interaction that has been established encourages the PPC effect in MoS2 by rapidly segregating photo-generated holes, which move away from the traps of MoS2 toward the VOPc molecules. The MoS2/VOPc phototransistor exhibits a fast photo response of less than 15 ms for decay and rise, which is enhanced by 3ordersof magnitude in comparison to that of a pristine MoS2-based phototransistor (seconds to tens of seconds). This work offers a means to realize high-performance transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD)-based photodetection with a fast response speed.