bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ternary Hybrid Materials for Highly Sensitive Acetone Sensing at Room Temperature
Authors: Abu Hussein Nurul Athirah , Wong Yew Hoong , Burhanudin Zainal Arif , Hawari Huzein Fahmi
Published: May 2023

The performance of a conventional metal oxide sensor (MOX) is highly dependent on its high operating temperature. Many researchers have tried to solve the problem by exploring hybrid materials. On the other hand, ternary hybrid materials have emerged as a promising class of materials with unique properties and potential applications in various fields, be it environmental or medical, such as in breath analyzers for prediabetes analysis. This article focuses on the synthesis method, characterization, and application of ternary hybrid materials for room-temperature sensors, as well as recent advances and future developments in the field. The materials consist of three different components, metal oxide (Fe3O4), polymer (polyaniline) and carbon-based materials (reduced graphene oxide), which were synthesized using in-situ methods. Five samples were prepared in different ratios. The properties of these materials were characterized using techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman, scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The XRD and Raman analyses showed the existence of all the individual constituents in the hybrid sample. SEM and TEM also showed a strong interaction between the constituent materials as a hybrid nanocomposite. The response and recovery time were studied against 1, 10 and 100 ppm acetone. The results show that the sample with 10 wt%Fe3O4-PANI-RGO (S2_10) has a reaction and recovery time < 32 s against the above ppm and has the highest sensing response at room temperature.
Effect of Cu2Te Back Surface Interfacial Layer on Cadmium Telluride Thin Film Solar Cell Performance from Numerical Analysis
Authors: Harif Muhammad Najib , Doroody Camellia , Nadzri Allina , Nisham Rosly Hasrul , Ahmad Nur Irwany , Isah Mustapha , Amin Nowshad
Published: May 2023

Even though substantial advances made in the device configuration of the frontal layers of the superstrate cadmium telluride (CdTe) solar cell device have contributed to conversion efficiency, unresolved challenges remain in regard to controlling the self-compensation and minority carrier recombination at the back contact that limits the efficiency. In this study, a SCAPS-1D simulator was used to analyze the loss mechanism and performance limitations due to the band-bending effect upon copper chloride treatment and subsequent Cu2Te layer formation as the back contact buffer layer. The optimal energy bandgap range for the proposed back surface layer of Cu2Te is derived to be in the range of 1.1 eV to 1.3 eV for the maximum conversion efficiency, i.e., around 21.3%. Moreover, the impacts of absorber layer’s carrier concentration with respect to CdTe film thickness, bandgap, and operational temperature are analyzed. The optimized design reveals that the acceptor concentration contributes significantly to the performance of the CdTe devices, including spectral response. Consequently, the optimized thickness of the CdTe absorber layer with a Cu-based back contact is found to be 2.5 µm. Moreover, the effect of temperature ranging from 30 °C to 100 °C as the operating condition of the CdTe thin-film solar cells is addressed, which demonstrates an increasing recombination tread once the device temperature exceeds 60 °C, thus affecting the stability of the solar cells.
Clinical Applications of TSPO PET for Glioma Imaging: Current Evidence and Future Perspective—A Systematic Review
Authors: Filippi Luca , Frantellizzi Viviana , Vincentis Giuseppe De , Schillaci Orazio , Evangelista Laura
Published: May 2023

Our aim was to provide a comprehensive overview of the existing literature concerning the clinical applications of positron emission computed tomography (PET) with radiopharmaceuticals targeting the translocator protein (TSPO) in gliomas. A literature search for studies about TSPO PET in the last 10 years (from 2013 to February 2023) was carried out on PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science using the following keywords: “PET” AND “Gliomas” AND “TSPO”. The Critical Appraisal Skills Program checklist for diagnostic test studies was used for testing the quality of selected papers. Ten articles were selected, encompassing 314 glioma patients submitted to PET/CT (9/10) or PET/MRI (1/10) with TSPO ligands. Among the various available TSPO tracers, the most frequently used was the third-generation ligand, [18F]-GE-180. TSPO PET results were useful to identify anaplastic transformation in gliomas and for the prognostic stratification of patients bearing homogeneous genetic alterations. When compared to amino-acid PET, TSPO PET with [18F]-GE-180 presented superior image quality and provided larger and only partially overlapping PET-based volumes. Although biased by some issues (i.e., small sample size, most of the studies coming from the same country), preliminary applications of TSPO PET were encouraging. Further studies are needed to define implications in clinical practice and shape the role of TSPO PET for patients’ selection for potential TSPO-targeted molecular therapies.
Association between Cerebrospinal Fluid and Serum Biomarker Levels and Diagnosis, Injury Severity, and Short-Term Outcomes in Patients with Acute Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Yang Zhihui , Apiliogullari Seza , Fu Yueqiang , Istanbouli Ayah , Kaur Sehajpreet , Jabbal Iktej Singh , Moghieb Ahmed , Irfan Zoha , Patterson Robert Logan , Kurup Milin , Morrow Lindsey , Cohn Michael , Zhang Zhiqun , Zhu Jiepei , Hayes Ronald L. , Bramlett Helen M. , Bullock M. Ross , Dietrich W. Dalton , Wang Michael Y. , Kobeissy Firas , Wang Kevin W.
Published: May 2023

Acute traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) is recognized as a global problem that can lead to a range of acute and secondary complications impacting morbidity and mortality. There is still a lack of reliable diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in patients with SCI that could help guide clinical care and identify novel therapeutic targets for future drug discovery. The aim of this prospective controlled study was to determine the cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) and serum profiles of 10 biomarkers as indicators of SCI diagnosis, severity, and prognosis to aid in assessing appropriate treatment modalities. CSF and serum samples of 15 SCI and ten healthy participants were included in the study. The neurological assessments were scored on admission and at discharge from the hospital using the American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Score (AIS) grades. The CSF and serum concentrations of SBDP150, S100B, GFAP, NF-L, UCHL-1, Tau, and IL-6 were significantly higher in SCI patients when compared with the control group. The CSF GBDP 38/44K, UCHL-L1, S100B, GFAP, and Tau levels were significantly higher in the AIS A patients. This study demonstrated a strong correlation between biomarker levels in the diagnosis and injury severity of SCI but no association with short-term outcomes. Future prospective controlled studies need to be done to support the results of this study.
Systolic Blood Pressure and Pulse Pressure Are Predictors of Future Cardiovascular Events in Patients with True Resistant Hypertension
Authors: Mesquita Bastos J. , Ferraz Lisa , Pereira Flávio G. , Lopes Susana
Published: May 2023

Given the increased risk of cardiovascular events associated with resistant hypertension, predictive cardiovascular prognosis is extremely important. Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) is mandatory for resistant hypertension diagnosis, but its use for prognosis is scarce. This observational longitudinal study included 258 patients (mean age of 60.4 ± 11.2 years; 61.2% male), who underwent 24 h ABPM in a hypertension unit from 1999 to 2019. The outcomes were global cardiovascular events (cerebrovascular, coronary, and other cardiovascular events). The mean follow-up period was 6.0 ± 5.0 years. Sixty-eight cardiovascular events (61 nonfatal) were recorded. Patients who experienced cardiovascular events were generally older, with higher rates of chronic kidney disease and prior cardiovascular events. The 24 h systolic blood pressure (hazard ratio 1.44; 95% CI 1.10–1.88), night systolic blood pressure (1.35; 95% CI 1.01–1.80), and 24 h pulse pressure (2.07; 95% CI 1.17–3.67) were independent predictors of global cardiovascular events. Multivariate Cox analysis revealed a higher risk of future cardiovascular events, particularly in patients with a 24 h daytime and nighttime pulse pressure > 60 mm Hg with respective hazard ratios of 1.95; 95% CI 1.01–3.45; 2.15; 95% CI 1.21–3.83 and 2.07; 95% CI 1.17–3.67. In conclusion, APBM is a fundamental tool not only for the diagnosis of resistant hypertension, but also for predicting future cardiovascular events.
Coaching-Based Pedagogy and Its Impact on Students’ Self-Regulation among Marginalized and Segregated Communities: Palestinian Arab Middle School Students as a Case Study
Authors: Shatroubi Talat , Ramirez-Garcia Antonia
Published: May 2023

(1) Background: This study aimed to examine the effect of assimilating coaching tools among educational staff on the cultivation of (emotional, behavioral, and cognitive) self-regulation skills among Palestinian Arab middle school students in Israel. Little attention has been paid to the relationship between coaching-based teaching and students’ self-regulation among middle school students, let alone students from segregated and disadvantaged communities worldwide. (2) Methods: A quasi-experimental study was designed to test the hypothesis that there are differences in self-regulation between students who participate in coaching-based teaching and those who do not. Six hundred Palestinian Arab middle school students participated in this study and were randomly assigned to two groups: an experimental group (n = 300) and a control group (n = 300). All participants completed a pre- and post-test instrument that included the Adolescent Self-Regulatory Inventory (ASRI), and repeated-measures ANOVAs were used to analyze the data. Repeated-measures analysis of variance was employed to examine the effect of coaching on the students’ level of self-regulation. To examine the sources of the differences, Tukey’s post hoc tests were used. (3) Results: A statistically significant correlation between coaching-based education and students’ ability to take responsibility and ownership for their own learning was revealed. The results showed that the mean of the self-regulation variable before the intervention in the experimental group was significantly lower than that after the intervention (t = −13.70, p < 0.001) and that the mean of the experimental group after the intervention was significantly higher than that of the control group after the intervention (t = 29.62, p < 0.001). Furthermore, there were significant effects on self-regulation at the time of measurement (before and after the intervention) (F (1, 299) = 49.87, p < 0.001) and for the participant group (F (1, 299) = 497.13, p < 0.001). In addition, no significant difference was found in the self-regulation mean score for the control group before and after the intervention (t = 0.55, p > 0.05). These results demonstrate that coaching had a positive effect on the participants’ level of self-regulation. Recommendations: We recommend that coaching-based pedagogy be incorporated into the education system, in general, and in education systems that serve the needs of marginalized and disadvantaged communities, in particular.
An Implantable Bio-Signal Sensor SoC with Low-Standby-Power 8K-Bit SRAM for Continuous Long-Term Monitoring
Authors: Lee Kyongsu , Sim Jae-Yoon
Published: May 2023

Individualized treatment of chronic diseases opens up great opportunities for implantable biosensor systems capable of tracking vital signals over long periods of time. To this end, low-power techniques in standby mode and the efficient utilization of storage space will be important issues for the implementation of such rechargeable implants with a built-in memory. This paper presents key circuit techniques, including a leakage-current-based clock generator that eliminates the need for an internal reference clock source, a low-standby-power 8Kbit SRAM with negative wordline and dynamic supply voltage scaling, and an adaptive sensing scheme to improve storage space utilization. When implemented with commercial 180 nm CMOS technology for the circuit simulation, approximately 70% (100 nW) of power dissipation was reduced from internal clock source, about 70% of power consumed by 8Kbit SRAM was saved, and the storage space utilization was improved by about 42.8%. In the end, the proposed implantable biosensor SoC consumes about 82.5 nW of standby power, saving about 42% from the previous approach and can last for 2.5 days using a 5 uAh thin-film battery (CYMBET® 1.7 × 2.2 mm2).
The Influence of Virtual Character Design on Emotional Engagement in Immersive Virtual Reality: The Case of Feelings of Being
Authors: Dirin Amir , Laine Teemu H.
Published: May 2023

Immersive virtual reality applications based on head-mounted displays are gaining momentum among students and educational institutes, but there is a lack of information about the preferences of virtual characters and emotional engagement in these applications. The objectives of this study were to: (i) evaluate participants’ preferences on virtual characters in virtual reality; (ii) measure emotional engagement among the users in terms of Feelings of Being; and (iii) identify relationships between virtual characters and emotional engagement. We conducted a mixed-method user experience evaluation on the HHVR virtual reality application that introduces the premises of a Finnish university and has three virtual characters: a human virtual character based on a real person, a fictional human virtual character, and a cat virtual character. We set up an eSports event where presenters (N = 12, mean age: 31.09) experienced HHVR using a head-mounted display and spectators (N = 38, mean age: 25.95) observed the experiment through large screens. We administered a questionnaire and conducted semi-structured interviews to gain insights into the participants’ preferences on virtual characters and emotional engagement. The results indicated that the virtual character preferences varied between the presenters and spectators; the cat was a highly liked virtual character in both groups, and the realistic human virtual character garnered mixed reactions from the spectators, although she was generally liked by the presenters. Both groups experienced several Feelings of Being, such as engagement, effectiveness, security, trust, enjoyment, and excitement, during the HHVR experience. Moderate and significant correlations were identified between the virtual characters and some of the Feelings of Being, thus indicating that the type of virtual character could impact emotional engagement; however, this requires further exploration.
Analysis of the Security Challenges Facing the DS-Lite IPv6 Transition Technology
Authors: Al-Azzawi Ameen , Lencse Gábor
Published: May 2023

This paper focuses on one of the most prominent IPv6 transition technologies named DS-Lite (Dual-Stack Lite). The aim was to analyze the security threats to which this technology might be vulnerable. The analysis is based on the STRIDE method, which stands for Spoofing, Tampering, Repudiation, Information Disclosure, and Elevation of Privilege. A testbed was built for the DS-Lite topology using several virtual machines, which were created using CentOS Linux images. The testbed was used to perform several types of attacks against the infrastructure of DS-Lite, especially against the B4 (Basic Bridging Broadband) and the AFTR (Address Family Transition Router) elements, where it was shown that the pool of source ports can be exhausted in 14 s. Eventually, the most common attacks that DS-Lite is susceptible to were summarized, and methods for mitigating such attacks were proposed.
Diagnosis Value of Patient Evaluation Components Applicable in Primary Care Settings for the Diagnosis of Low Back Pain: A Scoping Review of Systematic Reviews
Authors: Mathieu Janny , Pasquier Mégane , Descarreaux Martin , Marchand Andrée-Anne
Published: May 2023

Low back pain ranks as the leading cause of years lived with disability worldwide. Although best practice guidelines share a consistent diagnostic approach for the evaluation of patients with low back pain, confusion remains as to what extent patient history and physical examination findings can inform management strategies. The aim of this study was to summarize evidence investigating the diagnostic value of patient evaluation components applicable in primary care settings for the diagnosis of low back pain. To this end, peer-reviewed systematic reviews were searched in MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO and Cochrane databases from 1 January 2000 to 10 April 2023. Paired reviewers independently reviewed all citations and articles using a two-phase screening process and independently extracted the data. Of the 2077 articles identified, 27 met the inclusion criteria, focusing on the diagnosis of lumbar spinal stenosis, radicular syndrome, non- specific low back pain and specific low back pain. Most patient evaluation components lack diagnostic accuracy for the diagnosis of low back pain when considered in isolation. Further research is needed to develop evidence-based and standardized evaluation procedures, especially for primary care settings where evidence is still scarce.
Impact of Hyperkalemia in Heart Failure and Reduced Ejection Fraction: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Lopez-López Andrea , Franco-Gutiérrez Raúl , Pérez-Pérez Alberto José , Regueiro-Abel Margarita , Elices-Teja Juliana , Abou-Jokh-Casas Charigan , González-Juanatey Carlos
Published: May 2023

(1) Background: Hyperkalemia is a common finding in patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), though its prognostic significance is controversial. There is no consensus on optimal potassium levels in these patients. The primary endpoint of this study was to determine the 5-year incidence of hyperkalemia in a cohort of patients with HFrEF. Secondary endpoints were to determine predictors of hyperkalemia and its impact on overall 5-year mortality; (2) Methods: retrospective, longitudinal, single-center observational study of patients with HFrEF followed-up in a specialized unit between 2011 and 2019. Hyperkalemia was considered as potassium concentration > 5.5 mEq/L; (3) Results: Hyperkalemia was observed in 170 (16.8%) of the 1013 patients. The 5-year hyperkalemia-free survival rate was 82.1%. Hyperkalemia was more frequent at the beginning of follow-up. Factors associated with hyperkalemia in the multivariate analysis were baseline potassium (HR 3.13, 95%CI 2.15–4.60; p < 0.001), creatinine clearance (HR 0.99, 95%CI 0.98–0.99; p = 0.013), right ventricular function (HR 0.95, 95%CI 0.91–0.99; p = 0.016) and diabetes mellitus (HR 1.40, 95%CI 1.01–1.96; p = 0.047). The overall survival rate at 5 years was 76.4%. Normal–high potassium levels (5–5.5 mEq/L) were inversely associated with mortality (HR 0.60, 95%CI 0.38–0.94; p = 0.025); (4) Conclusions: Hyperkalemia is a common finding in patients with HFrEF with an impact on the optimization of neurohormonal treatment. In our retrospective study, potassium levels in the normal–high range seem to be safe and are not associated with increased mortality.
Optimal Modeling of Sustainable Land Use Planning under Uncertain at a Watershed Level: Interval Stochastic Fuzzy Linear Programming with Chance Constraints
Authors: Qiu Bingkui , Tu Yan , Ou Guoliang , Zhou Min , Zhu Yifan , Liu Shuhan , Ma Haoyang
Published: May 2023

In this paper, an uncertain interval stochastic fuzzy chance constraint land use optimal allocation method is proposed and applied to solve the problem of land use planning in river basins. The UISFCL-LUP method is an aggregation of interval parametric programming, fuzzy linear programming and chance constraint programming which can cope with uncertain problems such as interval value, fuzzy set and probability. In this paper, the uncertain mathematical method is explored and studied in the optimal allocation of land use in the next two planning periods of Nansihu Lake Basin in China. Moreover, it was proved that ISFCL-LUP can deal with the uncertainty of interval, membership function and probability representation and can also be used to solve the land use planning and land use strategy analysis under uncertain conditions. On the basis of model calculations, we obtained the optimal allocation results for six types of land use in four regions over two planning periods based on different environmental constraints. The results show that the optimized λ value (that is, the degree of satisfaction with all the model conditions) is in the range of [0.54, 0.79] and the corresponding system benefits are between [18.4, 20.4] × 1012 RMB and [96.7, 109.3] × 1012 RMB. The results indicate that land managers can make judgments based on the different socio-economic development needs of different regions and determine strategic land use allocation plans under uncertain conditions. At the same time, the model obtained interval solutions under different system satisfaction and constraint violation probabilities, which helps land managers to analyze the importance of land system optimization and sustainable development more deeply.
Influences of Maternal Weight and Geographic Factors on Offspring Traits of the Edible Dormouse in the NE of the Iberian Peninsula
Authors: Míguez Silvia , Torre Ignasi , Arrizabalaga Antoni , Freixas Lídia
Published: May 2023

The main goal of this study was to analyze the reproductive patterns of edible dormouse (Glis glis) populations in the northeast of the Iberian Peninsula using an 18-year period of data obtained from nest boxes collected between 2004 and 2021. The average litter size in Catalonia (Spain) was 5.5 ± 1.60 (range: 2–9, n = 131), with litter sizes between 5 and 7 pups as the more frequent. The overall mean weight in pink, grey and open eyes pups was 4.8 g/pup, 11.7 g/pup and 23.6 g/pup, respectively. No differences in offspring weights between sexes were found in any of the three age groups. Maternal body weight was positively associated with mean pup weight, whereas no correlation between the weight of the mothers and litter size was found. The trade-off between offspring number and size was not detected at birth. Regarding litter size variation across the geographic gradient (and their climatic gradient associated) from the southernmost populations of the Iberian Peninsula located in Catalonia to the Pyrenees region in Andorra, no evidence to suggest that geographic variables affect litter size was found, discarding (1) an investment in larger litters to compensate shorter seasons related to higher altitudes or northern latitudes, and (2) variation in litter size related to weather changes (e.g., temperature and precipitation) along latitudinal and/or altitudinal gradients.
Effects of HIP Process Parameters on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Ti-6Al-4V Fabricated by SLM
Authors: Lv Zhoujin , Li Haofeng , Che Lida , Chen Shuo , Zhang Pengjie , He Jing , Wu Zhanfang , Niu Shanting , Li Xiangyang
Published: May 2023

Ti-6Al-4V titanium alloy products formed by selective laser melting (SLM) are characterized by high strength and low plasticity. In addition, there may be pores inside the material, which may become a fracture sprouting point and accelerate the failure of the parts. Using an optical microscope (OM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and electronic universal testing machine, the effects of hot isostatic pressing (HIP) parameters on the microstructure and tensile property of SLM-formed Ti-6Al-4V titanium alloy were investigated. The results show that HIP performed below the β-phase transition temperature, and the structure of the Ti-6Al-4V titanium alloy is composed of an α phase and β phase. With the increase in the HIP temperature, the α lath coarsens into a short rod, the content of the β phase increases and coarsens, and the tensile strength and yield strength of Ti-6Al-4V show a decreasing trend. With an HIP process performed at a temperature of 910 °C and pressure of 130 MPa for 2 h, the Ti-6Al-4V titanium alloy obtains the best matching of strength and plasticity.
Influence of the Anodizing Time on the Microstructure and Immersion Stability of Tartaric-Sulfuric Acid Anodized Aluminum Alloys
Authors: Raffin Florian , Echouard Jacques , Volovitch Polina
Published: May 2023

Tartaric-sulfuric acid anodizing (TSA) has been selected by the aerospace industry to replace Cr(VI)-based anodizing treatments of aluminum alloys. Modification of the bath composition can result in the necessity to revise the process conditions, including the time necessary to obtain the desired properties of the anodized layer. This study focuses on the microstructure and immersion stability of the pilot scale anodized AA2024 aluminum alloy, with anodizing times of 25 min and 45 min. The layer structure was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and glow discharge optical emission spectrometry (GD-OES). The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) was used to evaluate the corrosion resistance and immersion stability of the samples in 0.01 M NaCl solution. The density of pores formed in the 45 min anodized samples was higher which correlated with higher impedance modulus at equivalent immersion time and higher thickness of the oxide layer. Contact angle measurements demonstrated better wettability of the 45 min anodized sample. The results suggest that 45 min anodizing offers higher corrosion resistance and better initial adhesion with subsequent post-treatment such as sealing or painting.
Molecular Mechanisms of Western Diet-Induced Obesity and Obesity-Related Carcinogenesis—A Narrative Review
Authors: Lathigara Dhruvi , Kaushal Devesh , Wilson Robert
Published: May 2023

The present study aims to provide a narrative review of the molecular mechanisms of Western diet-induced obesity and obesity-related carcinogenesis. A literature search of the Cochrane Library, Embase and Pubmed databases, Google Scholar and the grey literature was conducted. Most of the molecular mechanisms that induce obesity are also involved in the twelve Hallmarks of Cancer, with the fundamental process being the consumption of a highly processed, energy-dense diet and the deposition of fat in white adipose tissue and the liver. The generation of crown-like structures, with macrophages surrounding senescent or necrotic adipocytes or hepatocytes, leads to a perpetual state of chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, hyperinsulinaemia, aromatase activity, activation of oncogenic pathways and loss of normal homeostasis. Metabolic reprogramming, epithelial mesenchymal transition, HIF-1α signalling, angiogenesis and loss of normal host immune-surveillance are particularly important. Obesity-associated carcinogenesis is closely related to metabolic syndrome, hypoxia, visceral adipose tissue dysfunction, oestrogen synthesis and detrimental cytokine, adipokine and exosomal miRNA release. This is particularly important in the pathogenesis of oestrogen-sensitive cancers, including breast, endometrial, ovarian and thyroid cancer, but also ‘non-hormonal’ obesity-associated cancers such as cardio-oesophageal, colorectal, renal, pancreatic, gallbladder and hepatocellular adenocarcinoma. Effective weight loss interventions may improve the future incidence of overall and obesity-associated cancer.
Impact of Degradation of Polyethylene Particles on Their Cytotoxicity
Authors: Ikuno Yudai , Tsujino Hirofumi , Haga Yuya , Asahara Haruyasu , Higashisaka Kazuma , Tsutsumi Yasuo
Published: May 2023

Microplastics are ubiquitous in the environment, including in the ocean, soil, and air. Therefore, there are concerns regarding human exposure. Since it is known that the surface of microplastics in various environments is chemically deteriorated by external factors such as ultraviolet rays and waves, it is essential to evaluate the biological effects of degraded microplastics. In this study, we experimented by accelerating the degradation of polyethylene (PE) using vacuum ultraviolet light and prepared PE samples with different degrees of degradation. Then, we evaluated the effects of undegraded and variously degraded PE on cells using cytotoxicity tests. Based on the cytotoxicity test results, we saw a tendency for increased cytotoxicity with increasing degradation. Therefore, this study substantially links the deterioration of microplastics with their biological effects.
In Situ High-Pressure Raman Spectroscopic, Single-Crystal X-ray Diffraction, and FTIR Investigations of Rutile and TiO2II
Authors: Lu Xiaofeng , Gao Shuchang , Wu Peiyan , Zhang Ziyu , Zhang Li , Li Xiaoguang , Qin Xueqing
Published: May 2023

In ultrahigh-pressure (UHP) metamorphic rocks, rutile is an important accessory mineral. Its high-pressure polymorph TiO2II can be a significant indicator of pressure in the diamond stability field. In the present study, in situ high-pressure Raman spectroscopic measurements of natural rutile in UHP eclogite from the main hole of the Chinese Continental Scientific Drilling Project (CCSD) have been conducted up to ~16 GPa. Rutile and recovered TiO2II have also been analyzed via single-crystal X-ray diffraction and FTIR spectroscopy. The results indicate that (1) the phase transition from rutile to baddeleyite-type TiO2 terminates at about 16 GPa under compression at ambient temperature; (2) the metastable TiO2II in the exhumated UHP rocks formed during deep continental subduction can be characterized by a highly distorted octahedral site in the crystal structure. X-ray powder diffraction analyses (with Cu Kα radiation) at ambient conditions are sufficient for identifying the lamellae of TiO2II within natural rutile based on the angles (2θ) of two strong peaks at 25.5° and 31.5°; (3) rutile and recovered TiO2II in the continental slabs can contain certain amounts of water during deep subduction and exhumation. The estimated water contents of rutile in the present study range from 1590 to 1780 ppm of H2O by weight. In the crystal structure of TiO2II, hydrogen can be incorporated close to the long O-O edges (>2.5143 Å) of the TiO6 octahedra. Further studies on the pressure–temperature stability of hydroxyls in rutile and TiO2II may help to understand the transportation and release of water in subducted continental slabs.
Two-Birds-with-One-Stone Synthesis of Hydrophilic and Hydrophobic Fluorescent Carbon Nanodots from Dunaliella salina Biomass as 4-Nitrophenol Nanoprobes Based on Inner Filter Effect and First Derivative Redshift of Emission Band
Authors: Skolariki Thomais A. , Chatzimitakos Theodoros G. , Sygellou Lamprini , Stalikas Constantine D.
Published: May 2023

4-Nitrophenol (4-NP) has been listed as a priority pollutant and has also been reported as a human urinary metabolite used as a marker to evaluate exposure to certain pesticides. In the work herein, a solvothermal approach is applied to the one-pot synthesis of both hydrophilic and hydrophobic fluorescent carbon nanodots (CNDs), utilizing the halophilic microalgae Dunaliella salina as a biomass precursor. Both kinds of the produced CNDs showed appreciable optical properties and quantum yields, good photostability and they were capable of probing 4-NP by quenching their fluorescence through the inner filter effect. Interestingly, a prominent 4-NP concentration-dependent redshift of the corresponding emission band of the hydrophilic CNDs was noticed, which was further exploited, for the first time, as an analytical platform. Capitalizing on these properties, analytical methods were developed and applied to a variety of matrixes, such as tap water, treated municipal wastewater and human urine. The method based on the hydrophilic CNDs (λex/λem: 330/420 nm) was linear in the range of 0.80–45.0 μM and showed acceptable recoveries (from 102.2 to 113.7%) with relative standard deviations of 2.1% (intra-day) and 2.8% (inter-day) for the quenching-based detection mode and 2.9% (intra-day) and 3.5% (inter-day) for the redshift one. The method based on the hydrophobic CNDs (λex/λem: 380/465 nm) was linear in the range of 1.4–23.0 μM, with recoveries laying within the range of 98.2–104.5% and relative standard deviations of 3.3% and 4.0% for intra-day and inter-day assays, respectively.
Photoelectrochemical Selective Oxidation of Glycerol to Glyceraldehyde with Bi-Based Metal–Organic-Framework-Decorated WO3 Photoanode
Authors: Jung Yoonsung , Kim Seungkyu , Choi Hojoong , Kim Yunseul , Hwang Jun Beom , Lee Donghyeon , Kim Yejoon , Park Jun-Cheol , Kim Dong-Yu , Lee Sanghan
Published: May 2023

The conversion of glycerol to high-value-added products via photoelectrochemical (PEC) oxidation has emerged as a promising approach for utilizing a sustainable and clean energy source with environmental and economic benefits. Moreover, the energy requirement for glycerol to produce hydrogen is lower than that for pure water splitting. In this study, we propose the use of WO3 nanostructures decorated with Bi-based metal–organic frameworks (Bi-MOFs) as the photoanode for glycerol oxidation with simultaneous hydrogen production. The WO3-based electrodes selectively converted glycerol to glyceraldehyde, a high-value-added product, with remarkable selectivity. The Bi-MOF-decorated WO3 nanorods enhanced the surface charge transfer and adsorption properties, thereby improving the photocurrent density and production rate (1.53 mA/cm2 and 257 mmol/m2·h at 0.8 VRHE). The photocurrent was maintained for 10 h, ensuring stable glycerol conversion. Furthermore, at 1.2 VRHE, the average production rate of glyceraldehyde reached 420 mmol/m2·h, with a selectivity of 93.6% between beneficial oxidized products over the photoelectrode. This study provides a practical approach for the conversion of glycerol to glyceraldehyde via the selective oxidation of WO3 nanostructures and demonstrates the potential of Bi-MOFs as a promising cocatalyst for PEC biomass valorization.
Mapping the Dynamics of Contemporary PRRSV-2 Evolution and Its Emergence and Spreading Hotspots in the U.S. Using Phylogeography
Authors: Pamornchainavakul Nakarin , Paploski Igor A. D. , Makau Dennis N. , Kikuti Mariana , Rovira Albert , Lycett Samantha , Corzo Cesar A. , VanderWaal Kimberly
Published: May 2023

The repeated emergence of new genetic variants of PRRSV-2, the virus that causes porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS), reflects its rapid evolution and the failure of previous control efforts. Understanding spatiotemporal heterogeneity in variant emergence and spread is critical for future outbreak prevention. Here, we investigate how the pace of evolution varies across time and space, identify the origins of sub-lineage emergence, and map the patterns of the inter-regional spread of PRRSV-2 Lineage 1 (L1)—the current dominant lineage in the U.S. We performed comparative phylogeographic analyses on subsets of 19,395 viral ORF5 sequences collected across the U.S. and Canada between 1991 and 2021. The discrete trait analysis of multiple spatiotemporally stratified sampled sets (n = 500 each) was used to infer the ancestral geographic region and dispersion of each sub-lineage. The robustness of the results was compared to that of other modeling methods and subsampling strategies. Generally, the spatial spread and population dynamics varied across sub-lineages, time, and space. The Upper Midwest was a main spreading hotspot for multiple sub-lineages, e.g., L1C and L1F, though one of the most recent emergence events (L1A(2)) spread outwards from the east. An understanding of historical patterns of emergence and spread can be used to strategize disease control and the containment of emerging variants.
Hatchability of Fascioloides magna Eggs in Cervids
Authors: Halász Tibor , Tari Tamás , Nagy Eszter , Nagy Gábor , Csivincsik Ágnes
Published: May 2023

The giant liver fluke (Fascioloides magna) is an invasive parasite found permanently in three foci in Europe. The fluke has an indirect life cycle involving a final and an intermediate host. The currently accepted terminology determines three types of final hosts: definitive, dead-end, and aberrant hosts. Recently, roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) has been classified as an aberrant host, which cannot contribute to the reproduction of F. magna. This study investigated the hatchability of F. magna eggs of red deer (Cervus elaphus) and roe deer origin to compare the suitability of the two host species for the maintenance of the parasite. The study was carried out on a newly invaded area, two years after the first reported observation of F. magna. The prevalence of the parasite proved to be 68.4% (CI95% 44.6–85.3%) in red deer and 36.7% (CI95% 24.8–50.0%) in roe deer. The difference between the two species was confirmed to be significant (p = 0.02). The mean intensity proved to be 10.0 (CI95% 4.9–22.6) and 7.59 (CI95% 2.7–24.2) in the red deer and the roe deer, respectively. The difference of the mean intensities did not prove to be significant (p = 0.72). Of the 70 observed pseudocysts, 67 originated from red deer and 3 from roe deer. Most of the pseudocysts contained two flukes, while a few pseudocysts contained one or three parasites. Egg production was observed in all three types of pseudocysts. We did not find more than three flukes in any pseudocyst. The apparent proportion of self-fertilisation in flukes without mating partners was 23.5% and 100% in red deer and roe deer, respectively. The survival of single-parent eggs was not confirmed to be worse than that of gregarious parents. The viability of offspring originating from roe and red deer differed significantly. Our findings suggest that F. magna adapted to the new populations of susceptible hosts rather than vice versa.
Peptidases Are Potential Targets of Copper(II)-1,10-Phenanthroline-5,6-dione Complex, a Promising and Potent New Drug against Trichomonas vaginalis
Authors: Rigo Graziela Vargas , Cardoso Fernanda Gomes , Pereira Matheus Mendonça , Devereux Michael , McCann Malachy , Santos André L. S. , Tasca Tiana
Published: May 2023

Trichomonas vaginalis is responsible for 156 million new cases per year worldwide. When present asymptomatically, the parasite can lead to serious complications, such as development of cervical and prostate cancer. As infection increases the acquisition and transmission of HIV, the control of trichomoniasis represents an important niche for the discovery and development of new antiparasitic molecules. This urogenital parasite synthesizes several molecules that allow the establishment and pathogenesis of infection. Among them, peptidases occupy key roles as virulence factors, and the inhibition of these enzymes has become an important mechanism for modulating pathogenesis. Based on these premises, our group recently reported the potent anti-T. vaginalis action of the metal-based complex [Cu(phendione)3](ClO4)2.4H2O (Cu-phendione). In the present study, we evaluated the influence of Cu-phendione on the modulation of proteolytic activities produced by T. vaginalis by biochemical and molecular approaches. Cu-phendione showed strong inhibitory potential against T. vaginalis peptidases, especially cysteine- and metallo-type peptidases. The latter revealed a more prominent effect at both the post-transcriptional and post-translational levels. Molecular Docking analysis confirmed the interaction of Cu-phendione, with high binding energy (−9.7 and −10.7 kcal·mol−1, respectively) at the active site of both TvMP50 and TvGP63 metallopeptidases. In addition, Cu-phendione significantly reduced trophozoite-mediated cytolysis in human vaginal (HMVII) and monkey kidney (VERO) epithelial cell lineages. These results highlight the antiparasitic potential of Cu-phendione by interaction with important T. vaginalis virulence factors.
The Influence of Chestnut Extract and Its Components on Antibacterial Activity against Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Štumpf Sara , Hostnik Gregor , Langerholc Tomaž , Pintarič Maša , Kolenc Zala , Bren Urban
Published: May 2023

Increasing antimicrobial resistance has caused a great interest in natural products as alternatives or potentiators of antibiotics. The objective of this study was to isolate individual tannins from crude chestnut extract as well as to determine the influence of both crude extracts (tannic acid extract, chestnut extract) and individual pure tannins (gallic acid, vescalin, vescalagin, castalin, castalagin) on the growth of Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. Their antibacterial activity was monitored by measuring the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) as well as the duration of the lag phase, growth rate and generation time. The effect of growth medium strength on the MIC of different tannins was also investigated. Bacterial growth was followed spectrophotometrically, and MIC values were determined by the microdilution method. The MIC values of various isolated compounds allowed us to determine the bioactive compounds and their contribution to antimicrobial activity. It was found that MIC values increase with increasing growth medium strength and that the lag phase lengthens with increasing tannin concentrations, while the growth rates decrease. Comparing the results of the two studies, the antimicrobial activity of tannins against S. aureus was not as pronounced as in the case of E. coli, which may indicate that a different mechanism of action is responsible for the antimicrobial effects of tannins on Gram-positive than on Gram-negative bacteria, or that a different mechanism is more pronounced.
12-Oxophytodienoate Reductase Overexpression Compromises Tolerance to Botrytis cinerea in Hexaploid and Tetraploid Wheat
Authors: Degtyaryov Evgeny , Pigolev Alexey , Miroshnichenko Dmitry , Frolov Andrej , Basnet Adi Ti , Gorbach Daria , Leonova Tatiana , Pushin Alexander S. , Alekseeva Valeriya , Dolgov Sergey , Savchenko Tatyana
Published: May 2023

12-Oxophytodienoate reductase is the enzyme involved in the biosynthesis of phytohormone jasmonates, which are considered to be the major regulators of plant tolerance to biotic challenges, especially necrotrophic pathogens. However, we observe compromised tolerance to the necrotrophic fungal pathogen Botrytis cinerea in transgenic hexaploid bread wheat and tetraploid emmer wheat plants overexpressing 12-OXOPHYTODIENOATE REDUCTASE-3 gene from Arabidopsis thaliana, while in Arabidopsis plants themselves, endogenously produced and exogenously applied jasmonates exert a strong protective effect against B. cinerea. Exogenous application of methyl jasmonate on hexaploid and tetraploid wheat leaves suppresses tolerance to B. cinerea and induces the formation of chlorotic damages. Exogenous treatment with methyl jasmonate in concentrations of 100 µM and higher causes leaf yellowing even in the absence of the pathogen, in agreement with findings on the role of jasmonates in the regulation of leaf senescence. Thereby, the present study demonstrates the negative role of the jasmonate system in hexaploid and tetraploid wheat tolerance to B. cinerea and reveals previously unknown jasmonate-mediated responses.
Analisis Batimetri Guna Perencanaan Pengerukan Kolam Pelabuhan Kalibaru Tanjung Priok Menggunakan Single Beam Echosounder
Authors: Tribhuwana Awliya , Abdurrahman Farid
Published: May 2023

The Kalibaru Port of Tanjung Priok, North Jakarta, is one of the ports that is used for shipping and loading and unloading activities. Bathymetry information is needed to support one of the activities in the port, namely in terms of shipping. The purpose of this research is to map the bathymetry in the harbor pool area and to find out the areas that need to be dredged in the Kalibaru Tanjong Priok harbor pond. This research was conducted on May 24, 2022 in the pond area of ​​Tanjung Priok Harbor, North Jakarta. This research was conducted using a single beam echosounder using a Garmin GPSmap 420s tool to determine the depth of the harbor pool. Data processing using Ms. excel, Auto CAD land desktop, surfer to generate depth contours and calculate dredge volume. The volume calculation uses the average end area method. The calculation result of dredging volume is the sum of the cross-sectional area multiplied by the section distance. The results showed that the depth of the Tangjung Priok harbor waters ranged from 3 to 17 meters and the dredged volume reached 165,319 m3.
Pyrrhon chez Cicéron
Authors: Prost Francis
Published: May 2023

Cicero’s testimony on Pyrrho shows that this philosopher played the key role within the group of the defenders of absolute indifference built up by the various moral doxographies of the hellenistic age. Cicero also makes it clear that, for dialectic purposes, Pyrrho’s original thought was altered through assimilation to Stoic positions alien to his own vision of the world, which itself proved unbearable to a Roman mind.
Gallus évanescent dans l’Énéide : Irrévérence virgilienne ou transgression furtive d’un oubli imposé ?
Authors: Raymond-Dufouleur Emmanuelle
Published: May 2023

This paper deals with the connected notions of memory and forgetting in the Aeneid.

It aims at showing how Vergil often displays a poetic oblivion that embraces augustan political practices about the art of forgetting : the poetic design of the Aeneid is shaped by political considerations over some famous figures as Marc Antony, Sextus Pompey or Julius Caesar whose memory were more or less embarrassing for the princeps. But despite the fact that Vergil is quite obedient to Augustus’ views in his handling of oblivion in his epic, one canwonder about the formula Gallumque rebellumwhich could be a discrete but nonetheless daring allusion to the bannished elegiac poet Cornelius Gallus.
Bons et mauvais élèves du professeur d’amour dans le livre XIV des Métamorphoses D’Ovide
Authors: Laigneau-Fontaine Sylvie
Published: May 2023

The story of Circe, Scylla and Glaucus is presented as an elegiac episode of Metamorphoses. However, the characters, who are, themselves, ignorant of the elegiac code, behave in accordance with that of the epic poem, and accordingly commit a series of erotic blunders, which they pay for dearly. Beside J. Fabre-Serris’ political analysis, a literary reading of the story is also possible. In fact, the clumsy trio contrasts with the couple Vertumnus and Pomona, also portrayed in book XIV, in which the lover is a perfect elegiac hero who succeeds brilliantly. By implicitly contrasting the two modes of conduct and by portraying a triumphant elegiac hero, Ovid casts judgement on the relative worth of the two literary genres.
Pouvoir de la métamorphose et métamorphose du pouvoir dans le Livre XIV des Métamorphoses d’Ovide
Authors: Delbey Évrard
Published: May 2023

We think that it is not sufficient to say that the XIV Book of Ovid’s Metamorphoses

belongs to a whole (book XI to book XV) which is different from the anterior books because there are references to the war of Troy and to the history of Rome, culmination of metamorphoses. So we interpret the XIV Book as a different representation of the power : passage of the malevolent power of Circe to the power of the king Romulus whose apotheosis shows the positive aspects.
L’art de la parole : pratique et pouvoir du discours. Pouvoir et éloquence à la fin de l’Antiquité : le discours contre Héracleios Le Cynique de l’empereur Julien
Authors: Lagacherie Odile
Published: May 2023

Emperor Julian’s orations and letters allow to study in a vivid way the link which exists between rhetoric as a powerful practice and the political power embodied by the orator, an emperor here and a pepaideumenos, in the Late Antiquity. As a matter of fact, at the beginning of his reign, Julian used tolerance and persuasion in the political as well as ideological and religious debate. So the importance of rhetorical technique can be understood better when analysing for instance the beginning of oration vii against Heracleios the Cynic. Here the emperor shows that he can fight against his opponent and make the «true » philosophy win through rhetoric, even if he argues that he is not a professional orator.