bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heterogenization of a Tungstosilicic Acid Catalyst for Esterification of Bio-Oil Model Compound
Authors: Prasertpong Prapaporn , Lipp Jeremiah , Dong Anhua , Tippayawong Nakorn , Regalbuto John R.
Published: December 2022

Based on a prior demonstration of the high activity of a homogeneous tungstosilicic acid catalyst for the esterification of acetic acid as bio-oil model compound, a further study has been undertaken in an attempt to heterogenize the catalyst. Tungsten oxide was supported on amorphous silica (W/A150) using incipient wetness impregnation and incorporated into the structure of structured silica (W-KIT-5) via a one-step hydrothermal synthesis. The catalysts were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), physisorption (BET), and temperature-programmed desorption of ammonia (NH3-TPD). Both series were evaluated for the esterification of acetic acid with ethanol and compared with the homogeneous 12-tungstosilicic acid catalyst. The result of XRD analysis suggests the average crystallite size of the W oxide nanoparticles on both supports to be less than 2 nm, while XPS analysis revealed that all W existed in the W 6+ oxidation state. From the BET and NH3-TPD analyses, it was shown that the KIT-5 series had higher surface area and acidity than the W/A150 catalyst. The 10% W-KIT-5 was shown to be the best heterogeneous catalyst with the highest activity and acid conversion of about 20% and 93% of the homogeneous catalyst. Significant leaching of tungsten from both the supports occurred and will have to be solved in the future.
Carbamoyl-Decorated Cyclodextrins for Carbon Dioxide Adsorption
Authors: Patamia Vincenzo , Tomarchio Rosario , Fiorenza Roberto , Zagni Chiara , Scirè Salvatore , Floresta Giuseppe , Rescifina Antonio
Published: December 2022

Advances in materials science and technology have prompted researchers to look to nature for new high-performance, low-cost materials. Among these, cyclodextrins have been widely used as a material in industrial applications. Inspired by previous work by our research group that led to the functionalization of cucurbit[6]uryl and its conversion into supramolecular nanospheres with good CO2 adsorption capacity, this work aims to improve the ability of cyclodextrins to capture CO2 by functionalizing them with amide groups. Carbon dioxide adsorption experiments on functionalized cyclodextrins showed an adsorption capacity similar to that of BEA zeolite, a material currently used in the industry for gas adsorption. Moreover, these adsorption properties could also be exploited to improve the adsorption capacity of drugs, a field in which cyclodextrins are widely used. The new cyclodextrin molecules were characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and mass spectrometry, thanks to which we could determine the degree of functionalization of the new macrocycles. In addition, using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, we demonstrated the presence and interaction of carbon dioxide adsorbed by the material, whereas an in silico study confirmed the chemisorption as the principal adsorption process, as experimentally inferred using the pseudo-second-order (PSO) kinetic model.
Enhanced Photocatalytic Kinetics Using HDTMA Coated TiO2-Smectite Composite for the Oxidation of Diclofenac under Solar Light
Authors: Fellah Imen , Djellabi Ridha , Ben Amor Hédi , Hamdi Noureddine , Ordonez Marcela Frias , Bianchi Claudia L.
Published: December 2022

Slow kinetics is one of the capital issues of photocatalytic technology because of its heterogeneous nature, which involves multi-step processes. Herein, we show that the simple modification of the sol-gel-based TiO2-smectite composite by hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide (HDTMA) significantly boosts adsorption and photocatalytic efficient sol-gel-based light towards the removal of diclofenac from water. Three photocatalysts were prepared, including TiO2, TiO2-smectite, and HDTMA-TiO2-smectite. The materials were characterized to understand the surface interaction and crystal characteristics. In terms of photoactivity, it was found that the addition of HDTMA to TiO2-smectite improved the removal rate by twice. HDTMA changes the functional groups to TiO2-smectite composite allowing enhanced adsorption and photoactivity through the so-called Adsorb and Shuttle process. The recycling tests show that HDTMA-TiO2-smectite can be used up to four times with good performance. This modification approach could intensify the removal of pollutants from water instead of using complicated and costly techniques.
Efficient Biosynthesis of (S)-1-chloro-2-heptanol Catalyzed by a Newly Isolated Fungi Curvularia hominis B-36
Authors: Xu Shenpeng , Lin Qinzhe , Chen Wentian , Lin Ruoyu , Shen Yikai , Tang Pinchuan , Yu Sisi , Du Wenting , Li Jun
Published: December 2022

(S)-1-chloro-2-heptanol is an enantiopure chemical of great value that can synthesize Treprostinil for treating primary pulmonary hypertension. In this work, a new strain B-36, capable of asymmetric reduction of 1-chloro-2-heptanone to (S)-1-chloro-2-heptanol, was screened and identified as Curvularia hominis B-36 (CCTCC M 2017654) based on the morphological and internally transcribed spacer (ITS) sequence. The reductive capacity of Curvularia hominis B-36 was investigated as a whole-cell biocatalyst in the bioreduction, and the excellent yield (97.2%) and enantiomeric excess (ee) value (99.9%) were achieved under the optimal conditions as follows: 75 mM 1-chloro-2-heptanone, K2HPO4-KH2PO4 (100 mM, pH 6.0), 50 g L−1 resting cells (dry cell weight; DCW), 15% (v/v) isopropanol as co-substrate, 200 rpm, 30 °C, 20 h. The scaled-up biocatalytic process was accomplished at a bioreactor in a 1.5 L working volume, showing superb yield (~97%) and selectivity (99.9%). The product (S)-1-chloro-2-heptanol was purified and characterized by NMR. Curvularia hominis B-36 is a novel catalyst and the asymmetric synthesis route is benign and eco-friendly.
Effect of SNHG11/miR-7-5p/PLCB1 Axis on Acute Pancreatitis through Inhibiting p38MAPK Pathway
Authors: Song Tian-Jiao , Ke Jun , Chen Feng , Zhang Jiu-Yun , Zhang Chun , Chen Hong-Yi
Published: December 2022

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is an inflammatory disease of the pancreas. A growing number of studies have shown that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play an important role in AP progression. Here, we aimed to elucidate the role of Small Nucleolar RNA Host Gene 11(SNHG11) and its underlying molecular mechanisms behind AP progression. The in vivo and in vitro AP cell models were established by retrograde injection of sodium taurocholate and caerulein stimulation into AR42J cells and HPDE6-C7 cells, respectively. A bioinformatics website predicted the relationship between SNHG11, miR-7-5p, and Phospholipase C Beta 1(PLCB1) and validated it with a dual-luciferase reporter assay and an RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay. AR42J cells and HPDE6-C7 cells were transfected with an overexpression of plasmids or shRNA to investigate the effects of the SNHG11/miR-7-5p/PLCB1 axis on cell proliferation and apoptosis, inflammatory cytokine secretion, and acute pancreatitis. Low expression of SNHG11 and PLCB1 and high expression of miR-7-5p were observed in AP pancreatic tissue and AP cell models. SNHG11 overexpression inhibited apoptosis and inflammatory responses induced by caerulein. Simultaneously, we discovered that SNHG11 regulates PLCB1 expression by sponging miR-7-5p. PLCB1 overexpression abrogated inflammatory damage exacerbated by miR-7-5p enrichment. In addition, the SNHG11/miR-7-5p/PLCB1 axis could be involved in caerulein-induced inflammatory injury by participating in the p38MAPK signaling pathway. The overexpressed SNHG11/miR-7-5p/PLCB1 axis can inhibit AP progression by participating in the p38MAPK signaling pathway, thereby providing a potential therapeutic target and therapeutic direction for AP therapy.
Functional Role of AGAP2/PIKE-A in Fcγ Receptor-Mediated Phagocytosis
Authors: Chouinard François C. , Davis Lynn , Gilbert Caroline , Bourgoin Sylvain G.
Published: December 2022

In phagocytes, cytoskeletal and membrane remodeling is finely regulated at the phagocytic cup. Various smaFll G proteins, including those of the Arf family, control these dynamic processes. Human neutrophils express AGAP2, an Arf GTPase activating protein (ArfGAP) that regulates endosomal trafficking and focal adhesion remodeling. We first examined the impact of AGAP2 on phagocytosis in CHO cells stably expressing the FcγRIIA receptor (CHO-IIA). In unstimulated CHO-IIA cells, AGAP2 only partially co-localized with cytoskeletal elements and intracellular compartments. In CHO-IIA cells, AGAP2 transiently accumulated at actin-rich phagocytic cups and increased Fcγ receptor-mediated phagocytosis. Enhanced phagocytosis was not dependent on the N-terminal GTP-binding protein-like (GLD) domain of AGAP2. AGAP2 deleted of its GTPase-activating protein (GAP) domain was not recruited to phagocytic cups and did not enhance the engulfment of IgG-opsonized beads. However, the GAP-deficient [R618K]AGAP2 transiently localized at the phagocytic cups and enhanced phagocytosis. In PLB-985 cells differentiated towards a neutrophil-like phenotype, silencing of AGAP2 reduced phagocytosis of opsonized zymosan. In human neutrophils, opsonized zymosan or monosodium urate crystals induced AGAP2 phosphorylation. The data indicate that particulate agonists induce AGAP2 phosphorylation in neutrophils. This study highlights the role of AGAP2 and its GAP domain but not GAP activity in FcγR-dependent uptake of opsonized particles.
Advanced Maternal Age Differentially Affects Embryonic Tissues with the Most Severe Impact on the Developing Brain
Authors: Kokorudz Caroline , Radford Bethany N. , Dean Wendy , Hemberger Myriam
Published: December 2022

Advanced maternal age (AMA) poses the single greatest risk to a successful pregnancy. Apart from the impact of AMA on oocyte fitness, aged female mice often display defects in normal placentation. Placental defects in turn are tightly correlated with brain and cardiovascular abnormalities. It therefore follows that placenta, brain and heart development may be particularly susceptible to the impact of AMA. In the current study, we compared global transcriptomes of placentas, brains, hearts, and facial prominences from mid-gestation mouse conceptuses developed in young control (7–13 wks) and aging (43–50 wks) females. We find that AMA increases transcriptional heterogeneity in all tissues, but particularly in fetal brain. Importantly, even overtly normally developed embryos from older females display dramatic expression changes in neurodevelopmental genes. These transcriptomic alterations in the brain are likely induced by defects in placental development. Using trophoblast stem cells (TSCs) as a model, we show that exposure to aging uterine stromal cell-conditioned medium interferes with normal TSC proliferation and causes precocious differentiation, recapitulating many of the defects observed in placentas from aged females. These data highlight the increased risk of AMA on reproductive outcome, with neurodevelopment being the most sensitive to such early perturbations and with potential for lifelong impact.
Potent and Targeted Sindbis Virus Platform for Immunotherapy of Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Opp Silvana , Hurtado Alicia , Pampeno Christine , Lin Ziyan , Meruelo Daniel
Published: December 2022

Our laboratory has been developing a Sindbis viral (SV) vector platform for treatments of ovarian and other types of cancers. In this study we show that SV.IL-12 combined with an agonistic OX40 antibody can eliminate ovarian cancer in a Mouse Ovarian Surface Epithelial Cell Line (MOSEC) model and further prevent tumors in mice rechallenged with tumor cells after approximately 5 months. Treatment efficacy is shown to be dependent upon T-cells that are transcriptionally and metabolically reprogramed. An influx of immune cells to the tumor microenvironment occurs. Combination of sequences encoding both IL-12 and anti-OX40 into a single SV vector, SV.IgGOX40.IL-12, facilitates the local delivery of immunoregulatory agents to tumors enhancing the anti-tumor response. We promote SV.IgGOX40.IL-12 as a safe and effective therapy for multiple types of cancer.
Glutamine Produces Ammonium to Tune Lysosomal pH and Regulate Lysosomal Function
Authors: Xiong Jian , Luu Thi Thu Trang , Venkatachalam Kartik , Du Guangwei , Zhu Michael X.
Published: December 2022

Glutamine is one of the most abundant amino acids in the cell. In mitochondria, glutaminases 1 and 2 (GLS1/2) hydrolyze glutamine to glutamate, which serves as the precursor of multiple metabolites. Here, we show that ammonium generated during GLS1/2-mediated glutaminolysis regulates lysosomal pH and in turn lysosomal degradation. In primary human skin fibroblasts BJ cells and mouse embryonic fibroblasts, deprivation of total amino acids for 1 h increased lysosomal degradation capacity as shown by the increased turnover of lipidated microtubule-associated proteins 1A/1B light chain 3B (LC3-II), several autophagic receptors, and endocytosed DQ-BSA. Removal of glutamine but not any other amino acids from the culture medium enhanced lysosomal degradation similarly as total amino acid starvation. The presence of glutamine in regular culture media increased lysosomal pH by >0.5 pH unit and the removal of glutamine caused lysosomal acidification. GLS1/2 knockdown, GLS1 antagonist, or ammonium scavengers reduced lysosomal pH in the presence of glutamine. The addition of glutamine or NH4Cl prevented the increase in lysosomal degradation and curtailed the extension of mTORC1 function during the early time period of amino acid starvation. Our findings suggest that glutamine tunes lysosomal pH by producing ammonium, which regulates lysosomal degradation to meet the demands of cellular activities. During the early stage of amino acid starvation, the glutamine-dependent mechanism allows more efficient use of internal reserves and endocytosed proteins to extend mTORC1 activation such that the normal anabolism is not easily interrupted by a brief disruption of the amino acid supply.
12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate Reduces Activation of Hepatic Stellate Cells by Inhibiting the Hippo Pathway Transcriptional Coactivator YAP
Authors: Kim Chang Wan , Yoon Yongdae , Kim Moon Young , Baik Soon Koo , Ryu Hoon , Park Il Hwan , Eom Young Woo
Published: December 2022

Although protein kinase C (PKC) regulates various biological activities, including cell proliferation, differentiation, migration, tissue remodeling, gene expression, and cell death, the antifibrotic effect of PKC in myofibroblasts is not fully understood. We investigated whether 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA), a PKC activator, reduced the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and explored the involvement of the Hippo pathway transcriptional coactivator YAP. We analyzed the effect of TPA on the proliferation and expression of α-smooth muscle actin (SMA) in the LX-2 HSC line. We also analyzed the phosphorylation of the Hippo pathway molecules YAP and LATS1 and investigated YAP nuclear translocation. We examined whether Gö 6983, a pan-PKC inhibitor, restored the TPA-inhibited activities of HSCs. Administration of TPA decreased the growth rate of LX-2 cells and inhibited the expression of α-SMA and collagen type I alpha 1 (COL1A1). In addition, TPA induced phosphorylation of PKCδ, LATS1, and YAP and inhibited the nuclear translocation of YAP compared with the control. These TPA-induced phenomena were mostly ameliorated by Gö 6983. Our results indicate that PKCδ exerts an antifibrotic effect by inhibiting the Hippo pathway in HSCs. Therefore, PKCδ and YAP can be used as therapeutic targets for the treatment of fibrotic diseases.
New Technologies Based on Stem Cell-Therapies in Regenerative Medicine and Reproductive Biology
Authors: Kurpisz Maciej
Published: December 2022

Stem cells seem to hold major promise for contemporary medicine, one which could almost be more significant than a discovery of DNA and ultimate its relevance for organismal integration in the past century [...]
Essential Role of Multi-Omics Approaches in the Study of Retinal Vascular Diseases
Authors: Lei Yi , Guo Ju , He Shikun , Yan Hua
Published: December 2022

Retinal vascular disease is a highly prevalent vision-threatening ocular disease in the global population; however, its exact mechanism remains unclear. The expansion of omics technologies has revolutionized a new medical research methodology that combines multiple omics data derived from the same patients to generate multi-dimensional and multi-evidence-supported holistic inferences, providing unprecedented opportunities to elucidate the information flow of complex multi-factorial diseases. In this review, we summarize the applications of multi-omics technology to further elucidate the pathogenesis and complex molecular mechanisms underlying retinal vascular diseases. Moreover, we proposed multi-omics-based biomarker and therapeutic strategy discovery methodologies to optimize clinical and basic medicinal research approaches to retinal vascular diseases. Finally, the opportunities, current challenges, and future prospects of multi-omics analyses in retinal vascular disease studies are discussed in detail.
Impact of Molecular Biology in Diagnosis, Prognosis, and Therapeutic Management of BCR::ABL1-Negative Myeloproliferative Neoplasm
Authors: Abbou Norman , Piazzola Pauline , Gabert Jean , Ernest Vincent , Arcani Robin , Couderc Anne-Laure , Tichadou Antoine , Roche Pauline , Farnault Laure , Colle Julien , Ouafik L’houcine , Morange Pierre , Costello Régis , Venton Geoffroy
Published: December 2022

BCR::ABL1-negative myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) include three major subgroups—polycythemia vera (PV), essential thrombocythemia (ET), and primary myelofibrosis (PMF)—which are characterized by aberrant hematopoietic proliferation with an increased risk of leukemic transformation. Besides the driver mutations, which are JAK2, CALR, and MPL, more than twenty additional mutations have been identified through the use of next-generation sequencing (NGS), which can be involved with pathways that regulate epigenetic modifications, RNA splicing, or DNA repair. The aim of this short review is to highlight the impact of molecular biology on the diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic management of patients with PV, ET, and PMF.
“Coffee Ring” Fabrication and Its Application in Aflatoxin Detection Based on SERS
Authors: Yan Xuesong , Zhu Wenfeng , Wang Yibing , Wang Yiran , Kong Dexuan , Li Min
Published: December 2022

The fabrication of a coffee ring was studied in this work to improve its sensitivity in detecting trace analytes based on surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). Gold nanoparticles were synthesized with diameters of ~40 nm through the sodium citrate reduction method, and rhodamine 6G (R6G) was employed as a probe to evaluate the performance of the fabricated coffee rings. The results showed that the coffee ring formed from the water-washed gold nanoparticles presented more orderly and regular morphology as well as better SERS properties than the unwashed ones. Furthermore, both the concentration and the amount of gold nanoparticles were found to affect its SERS performance. Using the optimized coffee ring as a SERS substrate, trace R6G with a concentration of 5 × 10−8 M was detected. This sensing platform could realize aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) detection down to 5 × 10−7 M and was demonstrated to function well in real-sample testing.
Hydrogen Sensors Based on In2O3 Thin Films with Bimetallic Pt/Pd Catalysts on the Surface and Tin and Dysprosium Impurities in the Bulk
Authors: Maksimova Nadezhda , Malinovskaya Tatyana , Zhek Valentina , Sergeychenko Nadezhda , Chernikov Evgenii , Lapin Ivan , Svetlichnyi Valery
Published: December 2022

This paper presents the results of studying the characteristics of hydrogen sensors based on thin In2O3 films modified with tin and dysprosium with dispersed double Pt/Pd catalysts deposited on the surface. To control the content of Sn and Dy in the films, an original technology was developed, and ceramic targets were fabricated from powders of the In–Dy–O, Dy–Sn–O, and In–Dy–Sn–O systems synthesized by the sol–gel method. Films of complex composition were obtained by RF magnetron sputtering of the corresponding targets. Structural features of the obtained thin films were studied by Raman spectroscopy. It is shown that various combinations of tin and dysprosium concentrations, as well as the presence of Pt/Pd catalysts on the surface, have a significant effect on the defectiveness of the films and the density of oxygen adsorption centers. As a result, the resistance of sensors in pure air (R0), the activation energies of the temperature dependences of R0, the bending of the energy bands at the grain boundaries of the semiconductor, and the responses to the action of hydrogen in the concentration range of 20–25,000 ppm change. A unique feature of Pt/Pd/ In2O3: Sn (0.5 at%), Dy (4.95 at%) films is their high sensitivity at 20–100 ppm and the absence of signal saturation in the region of high hydrogen concentrations of 5000–25,000 ppm, allowing them to be used to detect H2 in a wide range of concentrations.
Psychosocial Support within the Context of Perinatal Palliative Care: The “SORROWFUL” Model
Authors: von der Hude Kerstin , Garten Lars
Published: December 2022

Against the background of a society that tends to underrate the grief experienced by parents whose infants have died prematurely, the model “SORROWFUL” is presented here with the intent to highlight the significance of the death of a newborn for the affected family. It is a supportive tool in counseling for parents grieving the (impending) loss of an infant(s) during peri- or neonatal life and may be implemented within the parental psychosocial support setting beginning with the initial diagnosis until well after the death of the child. The model intentionally allows flexibility for cultural and individual adaptation, for the accommodation to the varying needs of the affected parents, as well as to available local resources.
Perceptions of Parents on Management of Food Allergy in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alhuzimi Talal E. , Alharbi Mudi H.
Published: December 2022

Background: Food allergy is one of the most serious health concerns spread across the globe. Its awareness and management are undervalued, especially in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The aim of this study is to explore the perception of parents of autistic children from Saudi Arabia on the prevalence, knowledge, awareness and management of food allergens. Methods: A cross-sectional exploratory self-administrated online survey was conducted in Saudi Arabia, where 125 parents of autistic children voluntarily took part in the survey from April to August 2022. Results: This study indicates that less than one-fourth of autistic children suffering from food allergies, while most of them are allergic to proteins mainly. Examination of the knowledge level of these parents regarding food allergies, depending upon the score of correct answers given by them, showed that a majority of parents had a moderate level of knowledge on food allergy. Even though there was awareness about food allergens, the use of medical interventions was not employed much. However, the parents were mindful of food labeling and found it to be useful in avoiding known food allergies. Mediating effects of food allergy were observed in the relationship between food allergy knowledge and its management. Moreover, the source of information about food allergies was also found to be significantly associated with the knowledge score and the level of awareness regarding food allergies. This study provides evidence that there is a significant influence of food allergy knowledge of parents of autistic children on its management among autistic children from Saudi Arabia, with awareness of food allergies as the mediator. Conclusions: This is the first study where the prevalence, knowledge and management, along with awareness of food allergy, has been empirically explored through the perception of parents of autistic children.
Attitudes of Caregivers of Children under Five Years Regarding Growth Monitoring and Promotion in Polokwane, Limpopo Province
Authors: Mphasha Mabitsela Hezekiel , Rapetsoa Matjie , Mathebula Nhaviso , Makua Kamogelo , Mazibuko Sanele
Published: December 2022

Growth monitoring and promotion (GMP) is critical in tracking child growth to address widespread malnutrition and health status. Attitudes influence behaviour change, including attendance of GMP, and negative attitudes are linked to non-attendance. Moreover, negative attitudes correlate with low socioeconomic position. South Africa is characterized by inequality, which may lead to negative attitudes towards GMP among caregivers with a poor socioeconomic status. Hence, this study seeks to explore the attitudes of caregivers of children under five towards GMP. A qualitative exploratory study design was used. Caregivers of children under five were purposively sampled. Twenty-three participants were interviewed one-on-one, and the data were recorded using voice recorders and field notes. Tesch’s eight steps and inductive, descriptive, and open coding techniques were used to analyse the data. Participants understood the significance of GMP and were confident their children would benefit from it; hence, they attended sessions out of love for their children. The inconsistent availability of GMP services and the behaviour of health workers affected participants’ attitude. Despite these challenges, participants felt good about GMP. Caregivers’ love for their children/grandchildren helped them overcome challenges experienced at the health facilities. Good feelings about GMP boosted caregivers’ attitudes and aided in adherence. An intervention to address element impacting attitudes of caregivers is recommended.
Spatio-Temporal Analysis of Heatwaves Characteristics in Greece from 1950 to 2020
Authors: Galanaki Elissavet , Giannaros Chris , Kotroni Vassiliki , Lagouvardos Kostas , Papavasileiou Georgios
Published: December 2022

Heatwave events are of major concern in the global context, since they can significantly impact ecosystems, economies and societies. For this reason, more detailed analyses of the characteristics and trends of heatwaves represent a priority that cannot be neglected. In this study, the interannual and decadal variability of seven indices of heatwaves were investigated during the warmest period of the year (June–August) by using an enhanced resolution reanalysis model (ERA5-Land) over a 71-year period (1950–2020) for the area of Greece. Heatwaves were defined as periods where two thresholds, based on a modified version of the Excess Heat Factor index (EHF) and the 95th percentile of the maximum daily temperature, were exceeded for at least three consecutive days. Greece experiences almost yearly 0.7 heatwaves on average during the whole period of study, while this value has increased by ~80% since 1990. Trend analysis revealed that heatwaves have become more frequent, longer, and more intense since 1950. The percentage of the land area that experiences at least one heatwave per year was almost doubled in the examined period. An increasing trend in the number of heatwaves that occurred in June was identified.
Depression in Male Inmates
Authors: Kastos Dimitrios , Dousis Evangelos , Zartaloudi Afroditi , Pavlatou Niki , Kalogianni Antonia , Toulia Georgia , Tsoulou Vasiliki , Polikandrioti Maria
Published: December 2022

Introduction: The prevalence of psychiatric morbidity is high among incarcerated individuals. Severe mental disorder is five to ten times higher among prisoners compared to the general population. Several factors are held to be responsible for the high prevalence of depression in prison: mainly poor living conditions (narrow room, loss of privacy), limited interpersonal relationships, and lack of mental health access. Inmates are at increased risk of all-cause mortality, suicide, self-harm, violence, and victimization while those with mental disorders are involved in conflicts and are more likely to be charged with prison rules. Purpose: To explore depression among male inmates. Methods and material: In the study, 101 male inmates were enrolled. Data were collected by the completion of a “self-rating depression scale (SDS)-Zung” which included participants’ characteristics. The statistical significance level was p < 0.05. Results: Of the 101 participants, 51.4% of inmates were under 40 years old, 54.5% were married, 45.6% had been convicted of homicide and 38.6% had a life sentence. Normal depression levels were experienced by 62.4% of the participants, while 21.8% were mildly depressed, 14.9% were moderately depressed and 1.0% severely depressed. Foreign prisoners had statistically significant higher scores of depression compared to Greeks (median 48 vs. 45, p = 0.012); those suffering from a chronic disease compared to those who did not (median 48 vs. 45, p = 0.038); those who had spent time in solitary confinement compared to those who had not (median 46 vs. 43.5, p = 0.038) as well as those who had not considered harming themselves compared to those who had thought of it (median 46 vs. 44, p = 0.017). Conclusion: Given that prison populations are marginalized and deprived of the rights that people in the community benefit from, establishing the prevalence of depression in male inmates and its associated characteristics may help to formulate recommendations for future prison health care services. Clinical, research, and policy efforts are needed to improve prison mental health.
THz Surface Plasmons in Wide and Freestanding Graphene Nanoribbon Arrays
Authors: Tene Talia , Guevara Marco , Cevallos Yesenia , Sáez Paguay Miguel Ángel , Bellucci Stefano , Vacacela Gomez Cristian
Published: December 2022

Graphene is a thin-film carbon material that has immense potential as a key ingredient in new nanoelectronic and nanophotonic devices due to its unique characteristics. In particular, plasmons in graphene appear as a practical tool for the manipulation of light with potential applications from cancer treatment to solar cells. A motivating tunability of graphene properties has been observed in graphene nanoribbons (GNRs) due to their geometrically controllable bandgaps that, in turn, influence the plasmonic properties. The formidable effort made over recent years in developing GNR-based technologies is, however, weakened by a lack of predictive approaches that draw upon available semi-analytical electromagnetic models. An example of such a framework is used here, focusing on experimentally realized GNRs from 155 to 480 nm wide and organized as two-dimensional (2D) GNR arrays. The results show that the plasmon frequency behavior is highly affected by the experimental setup or geometrical factors. In particular, the bandgap of the analyzed systems is of the order of a few meV with a density of states opening around zero energy (Fermi level) in contrast to what is observed in graphene. From the plasmonic part, it is observed in all 2D GNR arrays that the frequency–momentum trend follows a q-like plasmon dispersion whose plasmon frequency can be increased substantially by increasing the ribbon width or charge density concentration. Forbidden plasmon regions are observed for high values of plasmon excitation angle or electron relaxation rate. From a sensing point of view, the important finding is the fact that 2D GNR arrays of 155 nm wide with high values of electron relaxation rate have plasmon responses similar to those observed for α−thrombin in water. Our predictions are projected to be of fast support for detecting plasmons in more complex designs of ribbon nanodevices with potential applications in molecular sensing of aqueous molecules.
Microwave-Assisted Synthesis of Luminescent Carbonaceous Nanoparticles as Silkworm Feed for Fabricating Fluorescent Silkworm Silk
Authors: Chen Wenkai , Zhong Yangsheng , Fu Gangrong , Lai Wenxuan , Pan Ziwen , Yang Yulian , Chen Fangyan , Yan Huichao
Published: December 2022

In biomedical engineering, optics, and photonics, fluorescent silkworm silk has many potential applications, but its complex preparation process and the environmental pollution of corresponding chemical dyeing methods hinder its development. Herein, we provide a green and effective method for fabricating fluorescent silkworm silk with enhanced mechanical properties. Citric acid and urea were selected as raw materials for synthesizing carbon dots (CDs), which were applied as additives of silkworm feed to produce fluorescent silkworm silks by microwave-assisted methods. The results showed that a diet of mulberry leaf with 0.5 wt% CDs was safe for silkworms and did not affect silk yield. CDs rapidly entered silkworms and accumulated in their blood and silk glands. After feeding for 90 min, the silk gland fluorescence appeared prominent. Compared with ordinary silk, the highest elongation at break of the CD-modified silk was 22.24%, and the breaking strength was 28.07 MPa, which were increases of 5.05 and 22.84%, respectively. The CD-modified silk displayed intrinsic blue fluorescence when exposed to a 405 nm laser, exhibited no cytotoxic effect on L929 cells and had excellent cell adhesion. The strategy proposed in this work is not only environmentally friendly but can also produce high-quality fluorescent silk on a large scale.
Double Substituted with Manganese and Strontium Tricalcium Phosphate Coatings on Zinc-Lithium Biodegradable Alloys for Biomedical Implant Applications
Authors: Rau Julietta V. , De Bonis Angela , Teghil Roberto , Curcio Mariangela , Fadeeva Inna V. , Barbaro Katia , Di Menno Di Bucchianico Massimo , Fosca Marco , Zheng Yufeng
Published: December 2022

To address the clinical needs for biodegradable implant materials, in this work, zinc-lithium (Zn-Li) biodegradable alloy was coated with double-doped manganese and strontium resorbable tricalcium phosphate (Mn,Sr-TCP). The Pulsed Laser Deposition method was applied for coating preparation. For coating characterization, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, X-ray Diffraction, Scanning Electron Microscopy coupled with Energy Dispersive X-ray, and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy were used. The microbiology experiments were performed, testing the inhibition of growth of Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis) and Gram-negative (Salmonella typhimurium, Escherichia coli) bacteria strains and Candida albicans fungus. The obtained results evidenced about 10% of inhibition of all four bacteria strains by the Mn,Sr-TCP-coated Zn-Li samples, exerting the most pronounced effect on C. albicans fungus (about 50% of inhibition of growth). The prepared coatings can be useful for improving the degradation behavior and biological characteristics of Zn-Li alloys.
Verification of the Influence of the 2-Hydroxy-2-methylpropiophenone (Photoinitiator) Content in Hydrogel Materials on Their Physicochemical Properties and Surface Morphology
Authors: Kędzierska Magdalena , Kudłacik-Kramarczyk Sonia , Jamroży Mateusz , Bańkosz Magdalena , Walter Janusz , Potemski Piotr , Drabczyk Anna
Published: December 2022

Currently, hydrogel materials are being widely developed and investigated. Factors affecting their properties may be mentioned, such as the types and the amounts of the reagents used for the synthesis of the hydrogel matrix and modifiers; thus, the main aim of the investigations was to check the impact of the amount of photoinitiator applied during the UV-induced polymerization of polyvinylpyrrolidone-based hydrogels incorporated with vitamin C and Aloe vera juice. The experiments that were performed were focused on determining the hydrogels’ swelling capability, behavior in simulated body fluids, hydrophilicity, chemical structure (using FT-IR spectroscopy), as well as their surface morphology and roughness. It was proven that developed materials had relatively rough surfaces, they did not degrade in simulated physiological liquids, and their swelling ratios in these media were 2.0–3.0 g/g. The only change in the pH of the incubation media—a slight decrease—was caused by the release of the modifiers into the tested liquids. Subsequently, it was demonstrated that as the amount of the photoinitiator (2-hydroxy-2-methylpropiophenone) increased, the percentage elongation decreased, and the tensile strength increased. The content of the photoinitiator in the hydrogels also influenced their wettability. All samples showed hydrophilicity; the more photoinitiator in the hydrogel structure, the lower wetting angle for water. Moreover, the greater the amount of 2-hydroxy-2-methylpropiophenone, the smoother and more homogeneous the hydrogel surface; thus, considering the demonstrated physicochemical properties of developed materials, they seem to show application potential for more advanced research regarding the development of innovative dressing materials.
Study on Current-Carrying Tribological Characteristics of C-Cu Sliding Electric Contacts under Different Water Content
Authors: Wang Hong , Gao Guoqiang , Deng Lei , Li Xiaonan , Wang Xiao , Wang Qingsong , Wu Guangning
Published: December 2022

Previous studies have often observed that moisture can promote the lubricity and wear resistance of carbon-metal contact pairs in purely mechanical conditions. However, the damage to pantograph carbon strips was found to be aggravated in rainfall conditions, leading to a much lower service life than anticipated. This suggests a novel influence mechanism of water on carbon-copper (C-Cu) contacts during current-carrying friction. In this paper, the influence mechanism of water on the current-carrying friction characteristics of carbon-copper contacts, including friction coefficient, wear loss, electrical contact resistance, and arc discharge characteristics, was studied under different current levels by controlling the water content of carbon sliders. The results show that the variation trend of current-carrying tribological parameters of C-Cu contacts with water content at 60–100 A is significantly different from that at 20–40 A, which is mainly the result of the competition of lubrication, cooling, and obstruction of current transmission by moisture. The abnormal wear of carbon sliders in the water environment occurs when the current is greater than 60 A, and the main reason for the abnormal wear is the intensification of discharge erosion. In addition, micro-crack propagation under high water content is an important factor in the deterioration of carbon strip properties.
Sustainable and Bio-Based Coatings as Actual or Potential Treatments to Protect and Preserve Concrete
Authors: Sarcinella Antonella , Frigione Mariaenrica
Published: December 2022

The durability of reinforced concrete strongly depends on the environment in which it is located; in any case, the concrete and the reinforcing bars it contains are constantly subject to slow deterioration processes. The protection of concrete structures is, therefore, essential to increase their service life, reducing the costs for their repair and maintenance. The commercial widely used coatings are mainly based on petroleum derivatives (i.e., resins, solvents): increased sensitivity and attention to human health and the protection of the environment pressed research to find alternatives to synthetic products, identifying safer materials with a low environmental impact to employ as protective coatings. In this review, new sustainable products already used or potentially suitable to act as protective treatments for concrete were analyzed and presented. These are natural (bio-based) or waste materials, in which the use of synthetic resins and hazardous solvents, for humans and the environment, are minimized, exploiting waste materials or by-products of other processes, if possible. The main properties and characteristics of these new products are illustrated, highlighting the potential advantages over commercial products also in terms of performance.
The Readiness of Lasem Batik Small and Medium Enterprises to Join the Metaverse
Authors: Hastuti Theresia Dwi , Sanjaya Ridwan , Koeswoyo Freddy
Published: December 2022

Today’s business competitiveness necessitates the capacity of all company players, particularly small and medium enterprises (SMEs), to enter a broader market through information technology. However, the Lasem Batik SMEs have endured a great deal of turmoil during the COVID-19 pandemic. Marketing has been conducted through physical and internet channels, but the results have not been maximized. The purpose of this research was to consider the possibilities of Lasem Batik SMEs adopting metaverse technology as a marketing medium to enhance sales. The investigation was conducted on 40 Lasem Batik SMEs who met the requirements of using online media to sell their products, having a medium-sized firm, and displaying marketing that has reached the provincial level. The findings of this study are as follows: (1) The majority of participants stated that the metaverse is a virtual 3D space. This understanding is deepened by discussions about virtual 3D spaces that combine VR and AR, which today is often referred to as the metaverse. (2) Batik business owners hope that by using the metaverse, they will be able to obtain many benefits, especially related to market expansion. (3) Lasem Batik SMEs show great interest in expanding their marketing channels to a wider area; Lasem Batik entrepreneurs also accept the challenge of studying the metaverse with new knowledge and techniques they have never considered. (4) Overall, 75% of participants were ready to use the metaverse, and 25% still required guidance. (5) Local communities, universities, and large corporations provide great support for the use of the metaverse. (6) The commercial success of Lasem Batik SMEs is defined by product quality; ongoing online and offline advertising; originality and innovation; and the capacity to capitalize on possibilities, retain local wisdom, and preserve strong customer connections. The main conclusion is that the readiness of batik entrepreneurs to use the metaverse is highly dependent on the support of various parties. A strong desire to progress and develop one’s business is the main factor determining one’s intention to use the metaverse. As a result of the research, a prototype of a metaverse platform for Lasem Batik exhibitions has been developed. SMEs can use the room template provided by the platform and join other SMEs to hold a metaverse exhibition to attract global customers. These results can be connected to create a metaverse exhibition to attract global customers.
Blockchain-Based Internet of Things: Review, Current Trends, Applications, and Future Challenges
Authors: Alam Tanweer
Published: December 2022

Advances in technology always had an impact on our lives. Several emerging technologies, most notably the Internet of Things (IoT) and blockchain, present transformative opportunities. The blockchain is a decentralized, transparent ledger for storing transaction data. By effectively establishing trust between nodes, it has the remarkable potential to design unique architectures for most enterprise applications. When it first appeared as a platform for anonymous cryptocurrency trading, such as Bitcoin, on a public network platform, blockchain piqued the interest of researchers. The chain is completed when each block connects to the previous block. The Internet of Things (IoT) is a network of networked devices that can exchange data and be managed and controlled via unique identifiers. Automation, wireless sensor networks, embedded systems, and control systems are just a few of the well-known technologies that power the IoT. Converging advancements in real-time analytics, machine learning, commodity sensors, and embedded systems demonstrate the rapid expansion of the IoT paradigm. The Internet of Things refers to the global networking of millions of networked smart gadgets that gather and exchange data. Integrating the IoT and blockchain technology would be a significant step toward developing a reliable, secure, and comprehensive method of storing data collected by smart devices. Internet-enabled devices in the IoT can send data to private blockchain networks, creating immutable records of all transaction history. As a result, these networks produce unchangeable logs of all transactions. This research looks at how blockchain technology and the Internet of Things interact to understand better how devices can communicate with one another. The blockchain-enabled Internet of Things architecture proposed in this article is a useful framework for integrating blockchain technology and the Internet of Things using the most cutting-edge tools and methods currently available. This article discusses the principles of blockchain-based IoT, consensus methods, reviews, difficulties, prospects, applications, trends, and communication between IoT nodes in an integrated framework.
Effects of Compositional Inhomogeneity on the Microstructures and Mechanical Properties of a Low Carbon Steel Processed by Quenching-Partitioning-Tempering Treatment
Authors: Zhong Ning , Yang Songpu , Liu Tao , Zhao Yuantao , Li Wenge , Li Wei , Wang Xiaodong
Published: December 2022

Quenching-partitioning-tempering (Q-P-T) heat treatment is a relatively novel approach to attain excellent ductility in high-strength steels. In the present work, the microstructural evolution and the mechanical properties of a low carbon microalloyed advanced steel were systematically investigated after the Q-P-T process. The microstructural evolution was explored by employing X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The results indicate that the multiphase microstructures strongly depend on both the initial microstructure and the processing parameters of the quenching and partitioning process, especially the quenching temperature. Compositional inhomogeneity during the Q-P-T process results in multiphase microstructures, in which the mechanical properties of the quenching and partitioning steels may be strongly impacted by the distribution of heterogeneous austenite phase in the steel matrix.
Synthesis, Cytotoxic Activity, Crystal Structure, DFT, Molecular Docking Study of β-Enaminonitrile Incorporating 1H-Benzo[f]Chromene Moiety
Authors: Alsehli Mosa H. , Al-Harbi Lali M. , Okasha Rawda M. , Fouda Ahmed M. , Ghabbour Hazem A. , Amr Abd El-Galil E. , Elhenawy Ahmed A. , El-Agrody Ahmed M.
Published: December 2022

In this work, we used microwave irradiation conditions to synthesize β-enaminonitrile (4), which was affirmed using single crystal X-ray diffraction and the different spectral data. Two tumor cell lines, MCF-7 and MCF-7/ADR, as well as two normal cell lines, HFL-1 and WI-38, were used to assess the anticancer activity of compound 4. The studied molecule exhibited potent efficacy against the MCF-7 and MCF-7/ADR cell lines compared with the reference drugs. Furthermore, target compound 4 had feeble activity against HFL-1 and WI-38. The chemical reactivity was discussed using DFT and QTAIM analysis to study the intrinsic electronic properties of compound 4. A molecular docking study was also conducted to examine their binding affinity to the EGFR. Compound 4 revealed a stable binding mode at the enzyme active pocket more than the reference inhibitor. The docking analysis was performed for molecule (4).