bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cu-Doped SrTiO3 Nanostructured Catalysts for CO2 Conversion into Solar Fuels Using Localised Surface Plasmon Resonance
Authors: Rizzato Lorenzo , Cavazzani Jonathan , Osti Andrea , Scavini Marco , Glisenti Antonella
Published: October 2023

Carbon dioxide valorisation is one of the most discussed topics amongst researchers; indeed, finding a way to significantly reduce CO2 concentration in the atmosphere is crucial in order to mitigate climate change effects in the next decades. In this study, SrTiO3-supported Cu nanoparticles are exploited as Localised Surface Plasmon Resonance (LSPR)-mediated catalysts for CO2 reduction. The materials were prepared via sol–gel citrate route methodology, inserting Cu as a dopant in the perovskite structure; reducing treatments at different temperatures were performed to promote copper atom exsolution, thus forming nanostructures upon the surface. The perovskitic structure was confirmed via ex situ and operando XRD analysis, while compositional analysis was carried out through XPS and EDS; SEM and TEM images revealed morphological changes with different reducing treatments, and bulk reducibility was analysed with H2-TPR, revealing different Cu species in the material. Band gap analysis via DRS showed the successful incorporation of copper in the perovskite, affecting the light absorption properties. Finally, catalytic tests showed that copper nanoparticles play a role in CO2 activation with sunlight, proving that LSPR could be exploited for catalytic means.
Fabrication of Superhydrophobic Coatings by Using Spraying and Analysis of Their Anti-Icing Properties
Authors: Fan Lei , Xia Mingyong , Liu Jian , Li Bo , Zhu Tao , Zhao Yingying , Song Linbo , Yuan Yuan
Published: October 2023

Ice accumulation on glass insulators is likely to cause faults such as flashover, tripping and power failure, which interfere with the normal operation of the power grid. Accordingly, superhydrophobic coatings with great anti-icing potential have received much attention. In this study, three superhydrophobic coatings (PTFE, Al2O3 and SiO2) were successfully prepared on glass surfaces by using one-step spraying. The microscopic morphology, wettability, anti-icing and anti-glaze icing properties of the superhydrophobic coatings were comparatively analyzed. The results indicated that the PTFE coating had a densely distributed rough structure, showing a contact angle of 165.5° and a sliding angle of 3.1°. The water droplets on the surface could rebound five times. Compared with the Al2O3 and SiO2 coatings, the anti-icing performance of the PTFE coating was significantly improved. The freezing time was far more than 16 times that of glass (4898.7 s), and the ice adhesion strength was 9 times lower than that of glass (27.5 kPa). The glaze icing test in the artificial climate chamber showed that the icing weight of the PTFE coating was 1.38 g, which was about 32% lower than that of the glass. In addition, the icing/melting and abrasion cycles destroyed the low-surface-energy substances and nanostructures on the surface, leading to the degradation of the anti-icing durability of the PTFE coatings. However, the PTFE coating still maintained excellent hydrophobicity and anti-icing properties after UV irradiation for up to 624 h. The superhydrophobic coatings prepared in this work have promising development prospects and offer experimental guidance for the application of anti-icing coatings on glass insulators.
Coercivity Enhancement of Sintered Nd-Pr-Fe-B Magnets by Cost-Effective Grain Boundary Diffusion of Dy/Tb Films
Authors: Zhu Xin-De , Wang Mei , Yu Yong-Jiang , Wang Qian , Wang Fei , Wang Peng-Fei , Jia Bin , Wang Cong , Zhou Bin
Published: October 2023

High-performance sintered Nd-Pr-Fe-B magnets were successfully prepared by depositing Dy/Tb films on the surface using magnetron sputtering, which resulted in superior grain boundary diffusion (GBD) under heat treatments. The course of the diffusion was assessed using an electron probe microanalyzer (EPMA) and inductively coupled plasma (ICP). The magnetic properties and thermal stability of the magnets before and after diffusion were investigated. The results show that, mainly due to the increased and optimized Nd-Pr-rich phases and the formation of the (Nd,Pr,Dy/Tb)2Fe14B shell structure surrounding the (Nd,Pr)2Fe14B grains, the coercivity of the Dy- and Tb-diffused magnets was enhanced from 16.7 kOe to 24.8 kOe and 28.4 kOe, respectively, while the corresponding maximum energy product (BHmax) was 48.1 MGOe and 48.5 MGOe, respectively. The consumption of Dy/Tb in this work (0.35 wt% Dy in the Dy-diffused magnet and 0.42 wt% Tb in the Tb-diffused magnet) is much lower than that of previously reported magnets with comparable coercivity. Furthermore, Dy- or Tb-diffused magnets exhibit better thermal stability than that of the original magnet, owing to the better resistance to thermal disturbances of the magnets with optimized microstructure. This work can provide useful guidance for preparing Nd-Fe-B magnets with low cost and high performance.
Deep-Learning-Based Automated Rotator Cuff Tear Screening in Three Planes of Shoulder MRI
Authors: Lee Kyu-Chong , Cho Yongwon , Ahn Kyung-Sik , Park Hyun-Joon , Kang Young-Shin , Lee Sungshin , Kim Dongmin , Kang Chang Ho
Published: October 2023

This study aimed to develop a screening model for rotator cuff tear detection in all three planes of routine shoulder MRI using a deep neural network. A total of 794 shoulder MRI scans (374 men and 420 women; aged 59 ± 11 years) were utilized. Three musculoskeletal radiologists labeled the rotator cuff tear. The YOLO v8 rotator cuff tear detection model was then trained; training was performed with all imaging planes simultaneously and with axial, coronal, and sagittal images separately. The performances of the models were evaluated and compared using receiver operating curves and the area under the curve (AUC). The AUC was the highest when using all imaging planes (0.94; p < 0.05). Among a single imaging plane, the axial plane showed the best performance (AUC: 0.71), followed by the sagittal (AUC: 0.70) and coronal (AUC: 0.68) imaging planes. The sensitivity and accuracy were also the highest in the model with all-plane training (0.98 and 0.96, respectively). Thus, deep-learning-based automatic rotator cuff tear detection can be useful for detecting torn areas in various regions of the rotator cuff in all three imaging planes.
The Contribution of Educational Psychology to South African Preservice Teacher Training and Learner Support
Authors: Mampane Motlalepule Ruth
Published: October 2023

Teacher education programmes are developed around the theoretical and practical understanding of child development, learning, assessment, behaviour management and motivation, which are areas of expertise in educational psychology. This paper aims to (a) critically investigate the contribution of educational psychology in the training of preservice teachers at South African universities and (b) understand the distribution of educational psychologists in public schools to support teaching and learning. A narrative literature review and email requests for unpublished documents from four educational psychologists were used as methods to collect literature in order to answer the following questions: What contribution does educational psychology make to training preservice teachers at public universities in South Africa? What contributions do educational psychologists make to support learners in South African public schools? Analysis was carried out by identifying recurring patterns in the literature reviewed. This study found that of the 26 public universities in South Africa, there are only 6 universities that offer educational psychology programmes. Educational psychology programmes in higher education institutions are in decline, leading to a decrease in the number of qualified educational psychologists. This decline negatively affects the involvement of educational psychologists in training preservice teachers in educational psychology modules or courses. Therefore, the inclusion of educational psychology as a core or fundamental module in the curriculum of preservice teachers to avoid dependence on the decreasing number of educational psychologists in higher education institutions is key. An increase in teacher training programmes in higher education should be merged with an equal increase in educational psychology core or fundamental courses in the curriculum of preservice teachers.
The Influence of Student Diversity on Applying Cooperative Learning in Ethiopian Polytechnic Colleges
Authors: Gebremariam Getachew Robo , Kidane Befekadu Zeleke , Gillies Robyn M.
Published: October 2023

Cooperative learning is more effective in a well-managed classroom with diverse ethnic, linguistic, and religious backgrounds. To that end, this study examined the state of applications of cooperative learning and student diversity in polytechnic colleges in southwest Ethiopia. A qualitative research methodology, specifically grounded theory design was employed to achieve the research purpose. The empirical data was gathered from 20 educational officials through in-depth interviews at sample polytechnic colleges. Student diversity found to have a significant influence on how cooperative learning is implemented. It has also been found that the perception of department heads towards diversity has a significant influence on the application of cooperative learning. The study’s findings also showed that managing diversity among students and interacting with peers within groups and from other groups has a positive influence on cooperative learning. In conclusion, the application of cooperative learning is affected by perceptional and structural factors of student diversity. Thus, this research recommends further study to be conducted on the relationship between diversity management and cooperative learning.
Research on an Intelligent Piezoelectric Needle Selector System with Closed-Loop Fault Detection Capability
Authors: Dai Ning , Xu Kaixin , Hu Xudong , Yuan Yanhong , Tu Jiajia
Published: October 2023

The piezoelectric needle selector is a crucial component of computerized dobby weft knitting machines. With the continuous development of weft knitting machine technology, enhancing the accuracy of piezoelectric needle selector control is essential. Accurate determination of whether the blades are in the correct position would significantly improve the precision of piezoelectric needle selector control. In this study, piezoelectric ceramic sensors were used to collect impact vibration signals when the blades struck the damper baffle. Key hardware circuits were designed for this purpose. A self-learning algorithm was employed to capture the highest point and the time it takes to reach the highest point in the impact vibration signal. A fault detection algorithm was used to implement closed-loop fault detection for piezoelectric needle selectors. Experimental results and practical applications have demonstrated that this research effectively addresses the accurate determination of whether the piezoelectric needle selector blades are in the correct position. It has reduced the defect rate of fabric production in weft knitting, thereby improving the overall efficiency and profitability of businesses.
Optimal Scheduling of Emergency Materials Based on Gray Prediction Model under Uncertain Demand
Authors: Li Bing , Liu Qi
Published: October 2023

In the context of long-term infectious disease epidemics, guaranteeing the dispatch of materials is important to emergency management. The epidemic situation is constantly changing; it is necessary to build a reasonable mechanism to dispatch emergency resources and materials to meet demand. First, to evaluate the unpredictability of demand during an epidemic, gray prediction is inserted into the proposed model, named the Multi-catalog Schedule Considering Costs and Requirements Under Uncertainty, to meet the material scheduling target. The model uses the gray prediction method based on pre-epidemic data to forecast the possible material demand when the disease appears. With the help of the forecast results, the model is able to achieve cross-regional material scheduling. The key objective of material scheduling is, of course, to reach a balance between the cost and the material support rate. In order to fulfil this important requirement, a multi-objective function, which aims to minimize costs and maximize the material support rate, is constructed. Then, an ant colony algorithm, suitable for time and region problems, is employed to provide a solution to the constructed function. Finally, the validity of the model is verified via a case study. The results show that the model can coordinate and deploy a variety of materials from multiple sources according to changes in an epidemic situation and provide reliable support in decisions regarding the dynamic dispatch of emergency materials during an epidemic period.
The Relationship between Resistant Hypertension and Advanced Glycation End-Product Levels Measured Using the Skin Autofluorescence Method: A Case–Control Study
Authors: Peker Tezcan , Boyraz Bedrettin
Published: October 2023

Resistant hypertension is hypertension that cannot be controlled despite the use of three antihypertensive drugs, one of which is a diuretic. Resistant hypertension often coexists with advanced age, obesity, smoking, and diabetes. Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are substances that are generated as a result of the glycation of proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids due to conditions such as hyperlipidemia, oxidative stress, and hyperglycemia. There are studies showing the relationships between AGE levels and aortic stiffness, hypertension, and microvascular and macrovascular complications in diabetes. In our study, we examined the relationship between resistant hypertension and AGE levels. Our study was planned as a case–control study, and 88 patients with resistant hypertension were included in the focus group, while 88 patients with controlled hypertension were included in the control group. The AGE levels of the patients were measured using the skin autofluorescence method. AGE levels were found to be significantly higher in patients with resistant hypertension than those recorded in the control group. A significant increase in AGE levels was also observed in patients with resistant hypertension and without diabetes compared with the control group. The levels of AGEs, which can be measured cheaply, noninvasively, and quickly with the skin autofluorescence method, may provide benefits in identifying these patients with resistant hypertension.
Etiology and Diagnosis for Idiopathic Condylar Resorption in Growing Adolescents
Authors: Tanaka Eiji
Published: October 2023

This article has been written in honor of the late professor emeritus Kazuo Tanne, who passed away on 4 March 2023 [...]
Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumor (Pan-NET) Presented by Abdominal Pain: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Regolo Matteo , Cardaci Nicolas , Salmeri Clara , Laudani Alfredo , Colaci Michele , Ippolito Massimo , Motta Fabio , Magrì Salvatore , Parisi Stefanie , Torcitto Alfredo Gaetano , Malatino Lorenzo
Published: October 2023

A pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (Pan-NET) is a rare neoplasm originating in the neuroendocrine system. Carcinoid syndrome occurs in approximately 19% of patients with functional Pan-NETs, typically when liver metastases occur. In this paper, we describe the case of a patient with a low-grade non-functional Pan-NET, but with a typical clinical presentation of carcinoid syndrome. An 81-year-old male was admitted to our Department of Internal Medicine at Cannizzaro Hospital (Catania, Italy) because of the onset of abdominal pain with nausea, loose stools, and episodic flushing. Firstly, an abdominal contrast-enhanced CT scan showed a small pancreatic hyper-vascular mass; then, a gallium-68 DOTATOC integrated PET/CT revealed an elevated expression of SSTR receptors. Serum chromogranin A and urinary 5-HIAA measurements were negative. We performed an endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) by a fine-needle biopsy (EUS-FNB), allowing the immunostaining of a small mass (0.8 cm) and the diagnosis of a low-grade (G1) non-functional Pan-NET (NF-Pan-NET). Surgery was waived, while a follow-up strategy was chosen. The early recognition of Pan-NETs, although rare, is necessary to improve the patient’s survival. Although helpful to allow for immunostaining, EUS-FNB needs to be warranted in future studies comparing EUS-FNB to EUS-FNA (fine-needle aspiration), which is, to date, reported as the tool of choice to diagnose Pan-NETs.
RAndomized Clinical Trial Of NAfamostat Mesylate, A Potent Transmembrane Protease Serine 2 (TMPRSS2) Inhibitor, in Patients with COVID-19 Pneumonia
Authors: Seccia Teresa Maria , Shagjaa Tungalagtamir , Morpurgo Margherita , Caroccia Brasilina , Sanga Viola , Faoro Sonia , Venturini Francesca , Iadicicco Girolama , Lococo Sara , Mazzitelli Maria , Farnia Filippo , Fioretto Paola , Kobayashi Yusuke , Gregori Dario , Rossi Gian Paolo
Published: October 2023

Even though SARS-CoV-2 was declared by WHO as constituting no longer a public health emergency, the development of effective treatments against SARS-CoV-2 infection remains a critical issue to prevent complications, particularly in fragile patients. The protease inhibitor nafamostat, currently used in Japan and Korea for pancreatitis, owing to its anticoagulant properties for disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), is appealing for the treatment of COVID-19 infection, because it potently inhibits the transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS2) that, after virus binding to ACE-2, allows virus entry into the cells and replication. Moreover, it could prevent the DIC and pulmonary embolism frequently associated with COVID-19 infection. The goal of the RAndomized Clinical Trial Of NAfamostat (RACONA) study, designed as a prospective randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial, was to investigate the efficacy and safety of nafamostat mesylate (0.10 mg/kg/h iv for 7 days), on top of the optimal treatment, in COVID-19 hospitalized patients. We could screen 131 patients, but due to the predefined strict inclusion and exclusion criteria, only 15 could be randomized to group 1 (n = 7) or group 2 (n = 8). The results of an ad interim safety analysis showed similar overall trends for variables evaluating renal function, coagulation, and inflammation. No adverse events, including hyperkalemia, were found to be associated with nafamostat. Thus, the RACONA study showed a good safety profile of nafamostat, suggesting that it could be usefully used in COVID-19 hospitalized patients.
Correlation Analysis of Nasal Septum Deviation and Results of AI-Driven Automated 3D Cephalometric Analysis
Authors: Kazimierczak Natalia , Kazimierczak Wojciech , Serafin Zbigniew , Nowicki Paweł , Lemanowicz Adam , Nadolska Katarzyna , Janiszewska-Olszowska Joanna
Published: October 2023

The nasal septum is believed to play a crucial role in the development of the craniofacial skeleton. Nasal septum deviation (NSD) is a common condition, affecting 18–65% of individuals. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of NSD and its potential association with abnormalities detected through cephalometric analysis using artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms. The study included CT scans of 120 consecutive, post-traumatic patients aged 18–30. Cephalometric analysis was performed using an AI web-based software, CephX. The automatic analysis comprised all the available cephalometric analyses. NSD was assessed using two methods: maximum deviation from an ideal non-deviated septum and septal deviation angle (SDA). The concordance of repeated manual measurements and automatic analyses was assessed. Of the 120 cases, 90 met the inclusion criteria. The AI-based cephalometric analysis provided comprehensive reports with over 100 measurements. Only the hinge axis angle (HAA) and SDA showed significant (p = 0.039) negative correlations. The rest of the cephalometric analyses showed no correlation with the NSD indicators. The analysis of the agreement between repeated manual measurements and automatic analyses showed good-to-excellent concordance, except in the case of two angular measurements: LI-N-B and Pr-N-A. The CephX AI platform showed high repeatability in automatic cephalometric analyses, demonstrating the reliability of the AI model for most cephalometric analyses.
Therapeutic Exercise Parameters, Considerations and Recommendations for the Treatment of Non-Specific Low Back Pain: International DELPHI Study
Authors: Sánchez Milá Zacarías , Muñoz Teresa Villa , Ferreira Sánchez María del Rosario , Frutos Llanes Raúl , Barragán Casas José Manuel , Rodríguez Sanz David , Velázquez Saornil Jorge
Published: October 2023

Background: Therapeutic exercise (TE) recommendations for non-specific low back pain (LBP) are meant to support therapy choices for people who suffer from this condition. The aim of this study was to reach an agreement on the definition and use of TE in the care of people with LBP. Methods: A Delphi study was carried out with a formal consensus procedure and sufficient scientific evidence, using an established methodology. Four rounds of anonymous questionnaires were administered to create useful suggestions and instructions in terms of the therapeutic activity for patients with LBP, and a group consensus conference. Results: A consensus was reached on most of the questions after 35 physiotherapists completed the questionnaires. Participants agreed that proper TE requires correct posture, body awareness, breathing, movement control, and instruction. Patients with LBP were advised to participate in supervised sessions twice a week for 30 to 60 min for a period of 3 to 6 months. Participants added that tailored evaluation and exercise prescription, monitoring, and functional integration of exercise, as well as using specific equipment, would benefit patients with LBP. Conclusions: TE recommendations for patients with LBP should be dosed and customized based on their personal psychological needs, level of fitness, and kinesiophobia.
Translating Biospectroscopy Techniques to Clinical Settings: A New Paradigm in Point-of-Care Screening and/or Diagnostics
Authors: Martin Francis L.
Published: October 2023

As healthcare tools increasingly move towards a more digital and computational format, there is an increasing need for sensor-based technologies that allow for rapid screening and/or diagnostics [...]
Embedding Sustainability Justice in Greek Secondary Curricula through the DeCoRe Plus Methodology
Authors: Vouzaxakis Georgios , Makrakis Vassilios , Kostoulas-Makrakis Nelly
Published: October 2023

This paper describes the processes of embedding Sustainability Justice in secondary education curricula for economic courses in Greece applying the DeCoRe plus methodology and participatory action research. These processes resulted in a reconstructed curriculum that was implemented by nine teachers teaching courses in economics. Sustainability justice emphasizes the ethics and praxis of education for sustainability and requires an understanding of the curriculum as a process and praxis and teaching as an ethical and political praxis. The implementation of the diagnostic evaluation of DeCoRe plus showed that economics teachers in Greece select more behavioral than constructive-emancipatory teaching approaches. On the other hand, the implementation of the reconstructed curriculum units in their courses using the DeCoRe plus methodology revealed a shift from instructive to constructivist and emancipatory teaching and learning approaches. Teachers by the great majority declared the political and ethical perspective of teaching and seeing curriculum as a living text that can always be under the process of deconstruction, construction, and reconstruction.
Enhancing Coccinella Beetle Biological Pest Control via a Floral Approach in Cucumber Greenhouse
Authors: Hyder Moazam , Li Yuyan , Raza Muhammad Fahad , Zhang Maosen , Chen Junjie , Mao Jianjun , Bukero Aslam , Zhang Lisheng
Published: October 2023

Flower-rich habitats are crucial for promoting biodiversity and ecosystem services within agricultural ecosystems, such as pollination and pest control. The present study investigates the efficacy of employing floral structures as a criterion for the selection of plant species in order to enhance the attraction of natural enemies within cucumber greenhouses, consequently augmenting floral resources. The results of our study provide evidence that flower strips have a beneficial effect on the fitness of critical natural predators, while not facilitating the proliferation of detrimental insect species. These findings exhibit potential for enhancing pest-management services in the agricultural sector. The findings of our study demonstrate that pest levels within greenhouse environments closely resemble those observed in real-world commercial cropping systems. As a result, the introduction of Coccinella septempunctata and Menochilus sexmaculatus biocontrol agents is confirmed to be a reliable and efficient method for pest management. The phenomenon of predator–prey density dependency is recognized as a crucial element in the implementation of biological control strategies. Furthermore, we investigate the impact of floral resources on the reproductive capacity of indigenous predators. The impact of Coriandrum sativum on fertility is substantial, indicating that the presence of a varied plant assortment with overlapping flowering periods can prolong the availability of floral resources. This study highlights the significance of flower-rich habitats and deliberate plant selection in augmenting biodiversity, ecosystem services, and pest management within agricultural settings. The implementation of conservation biological control technologies presents supplementary ecological advantages, thus offering practical implications for the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices.
Bowiea volubilis: From “Climbing Onion” to Therapeutic Treasure—Exploring Human Health Applications
Authors: Gwanya Hlalanathi , Cawe Sizwe , Egbichi Ifeanyi , Gxaba Nomagugu , Mbuyiswa Afika-Amazizi , Zonyane Samkele , Mbolekwa Babalwa , Manganyi Madira C.
Published: October 2023

Bowiea volubilis subsp. volubilis is primarily used to address human respiratory infections, coughs, and colds due to its diverse pharmaceutical properties. Notably, the plant contains alkaloids that exhibit notable antifungal, antibacterial, and cytotoxic properties. Additionally, the presence of saponins, with recognized antioxidant and anticancer attributes, further contributes to its medicinal potential. Steroid compounds inherent to the plant have been associated with anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities. Moreover, the bulb of B. volubilis has been associated as a source of various cardiac glycosides. Despite these therapeutic prospects, B. volubilis remains inedible due to the presence of naturally occurring toxic substances that pose risks to both animals and humans. The review focuses on a comprehensive exploration concerning B. volubilis ethnobotanical applications, phytochemical properties, and diverse biological activities in relation to in vitro and in vivo applications for promoting human health and disease prevention. The aim of the study is to comprehensively investigate the phytochemical composition, bioactive compounds, and potential medicinal properties of Bowiea volubilis, with the ultimate goal of uncovering its therapeutic applications for human health. This review also highlights an evident gap in research, i.e., insufficient evidence-based research on toxicity data. This void in knowledge presents a promising avenue for future investigations, opening doors to expanded inquiries into the properties and potential applications of B. volubilis in the context of human diseases.
Septicemic Outbreak in A Rainbow Trout Intensive Aquaculture System: Clinical Finds, Etiological Agents, and Predisposing Factors
Authors: Bălbărău Adrian , Ivanescu Larisa Maria , Martinescu Gabriela , Rîmbu Cristina Mihaela , Acatrinei Dumitru , Lazar Mircea , Cocean Iuliana , Gurlui Silviu , Cocean Alexandru , Miron Liviu
Published: October 2023

On the 23rd of September 2022, a small intensive aquaculture unit populated with rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) reported increased mortality in adults and juvenile fish. The unit comprised 12 enclosed concrete basins with a capacity of ten cubic meters of water, populated with 150 kg of fish each. Fish were subjected to a clinical examination on the site, after which whole fish were harvested for a bacteriological and histopathological examination. Water quality parameters were examined using classic biochemical methods and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy in order to find out whether the environment in which the fish live is also a predisposing factor that could facilitate different pathogens and induce a state of disease in the fish. Real-time PCR was performed on strains of Aeromonas spp. sampled from the fish to accurately identify the pathogen species. The goal was to accurately identify the problems and predisposing factors that lead to disease outbreaks.
Tensile and Fracture Characteristics of 304L Stainless Steel at Cryogenic Temperatures for Liquid Hydrogen Service
Authors: Kim Myung-Sung , Lee Taehyun , Park Jong-Won , Kim Yongjin
Published: October 2023

As the urgency for carbon-neutral fuels grows in response to global warming and environmental pollution, liquid hydrogen, with its high energy density, emerges as a promising candidate. Stored at temperatures below 20 K, liquid hydrogen’s containment system requires materials resilient to such cryogenic temperatures. Austenitic stainless steel, including 304L grade, has been widely used due to its favorable properties. However, designing pressure vessels for these systems necessitates a deep understanding of fracture mechanics and accurate assessments of the material’s fracture toughness at cryogenic temperatures. The mechanical behavior at these temperatures differs significantly from that at room temperature, making testing at 20 K a complex procedure that requires stringent facilities. This study examines the tensile behavior and fracture toughness of 304L stainless steel at cryogenic temperatures, comparing and analyzing the characteristics observed at 20 K with those at room temperature. The phenomenon of discontinuous yield, with abrupt stress drops and stepwise deformation at low temperatures, has been identified, resulting in more complex stress–strain curves. Limitations were found in the calculation of the crack length during the assessment of fracture toughness in stainless steel under extremely low-temperature environments through the J-integral compliance method. To address these constraints, a comparative analysis was carried out to determine potential corrective measures.
Linking Clinical Blood Metabogram and Gut Microbiota
Authors: Lokhov Petr G. , Balashova Elena E. , Maslov Dmitry L. , Trifonova Oxana P. , Lisitsa Andrey V. , Markova Yulia M. , Stetsenko Valentina V. , Polyanina Anna S. , Sheveleva Svetlana A. , Sharafetdinov Khaider K. , Nikityuk Dmitry B. , Tutelyan Victor A. , Archakov Alexander I.
Published: October 2023

Recently, a clinical blood metabogram was developed as a fast, low-cost and reproducible test that allows the implementation of metabolomics in clinical practice. The components of the metabogram are functionally related groups of blood metabolites associated with humoral regulation, the metabolism of lipids, carbohydrates and amines, lipid intake into the organism, and liver function, thereby providing clinically relevant information. It is known that the gut microbiota affects the blood metabolome, and the components of the blood metabolome may affect the composition of the gut microbiota. Therefore, before using the metabogram in the clinic, the link between the metabogram components and the level of gut microorganisms should be established. For this purpose, the metabogram and microbiota data were obtained in this work for the same individuals. Metabograms of blood plasma were obtained by direct mass spectrometry of blood plasma, and the gut microbiome was determined by a culture-based method and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). This study involved healthy volunteers and individuals with varying degrees of deviation in body weight (n = 44). A correlation analysis determined which metabogram components are linked to which gut microorganisms and the strength of this link. Moreover, diagnostic parameters (sensitivity, specificity and accuracy) confirmed the capacity of metabogram components to be used for diagnosing gut microbiota alterations. Therefore, the obtained results allow the use of the metabogram in a clinical setting, taking into account its relationship with gut microbiota.
Synthesis of Metabolites and Metabolite-like Compounds Using Biocatalytic Systems
Authors: Wohlgemuth Roland
Published: October 2023

Methodologies for the synthesis and purification of metabolites, which have been developed following their discovery, analysis, and structural identification, have been involved in numerous life science milestones. The renewed focus on the small molecule domain of biological cells has also created an increasing awareness of the rising gap between the metabolites identified and the metabolites which have been prepared as pure compounds. The design and engineering of resource-efficient and straightforward synthetic methodologies for the production of the diverse and numerous metabolites and metabolite-like compounds have attracted much interest. The variety of metabolic pathways in biological cells provides a wonderful blueprint for designing simplified and resource-efficient synthetic routes to desired metabolites. Therefore, biocatalytic systems have become key enabling tools for the synthesis of an increasing number of metabolites, which can then be utilized as standards, enzyme substrates, inhibitors, or other products, or for the discovery of novel biological functions.
Deep Eutectic Solvent Coated Cerium Oxide Nanoparticles Based Polysulfone Membrane to Mitigate Environmental Toxicology
Authors: Saif-ur-Rehman  , Shozab Mehdi Muhammad , Fakhar-e-Alam Muhammad , Asif Muhammad , Rehman Javed , A. Alshgari Razan , Jamal Muddasar , Uz Zaman Shafiq , Umar Muhammad , Rafiq Sikander , Muhammad Nawshad , bin Fawad Junaid , Shafiee Saiful Arifin
Published: October 2023

In this study, ceria nanoparticles (NPs) and deep eutectic solvent (DES) were synthesized, and the ceria-NP’s surfaces were modified by DES to form DES-ceria NP filler to develop mixed matrix membranes (MMMs). For the sake of interface engineering, MMMs of 2%, 4%, 6% and 8% filler loadings were fabricated using solution casting technique. The characterizations of SEM, FTIR and TGA of synthesized membranes were performed. SEM represented the surface and cross-sectional morphology of membranes, which indicated that the filler is uniformly dispersed in the polysulfone. FTIR was used to analyze the interaction between the filler and support, which showed there was no reaction between the polymer and DES-ceria NPs as all the peaks were consistent, and TGA provided the variation in the membrane materials with respect to temperature, which categorized all of the membranes as very stable and showed that the trend of stability increases with respect to DES-ceria NPs filler loading. For the evaluation of efficiency of the MMMs, the gas permeation was tested. The permeability of CO2 was improved in comparison with the pristine Polysulfone (PSF) membrane and enhanced selectivities of 35.43 (αCO2/CH4) and 39.3 (αCO2/N2) were found. Hence, the DES-ceria NP-based MMMs proved useful in mitigating CO2 from a gaseous mixture.
Ring-Opening Reaction of 1-Phospha-2-Azanorbornenes via P-N Bond Cleavage and Reversibility Studies
Authors: Ramazanova Kyzgaldak , Müller Anna Karina , Lönnecke Peter , Hollóczki Oldamur , Kirchner Barbara , Hey-Hawkins Evamarie
Published: October 2023

The reactive P-N bond in 1-phospha-2-azanorbornenes is readily cleaved by simple alcohols to afford P-chiral 2,3-dihydrophosphole derivatives as a racemic mixture. The isolation of the products was not possible due to the reversibility of the reaction, which could, however, be stopped by sulfurization of the phosphorus atom, thus efficiently blocking the lone pair of electrons, as exemplified for 6b yielding structurally characterized 8b. Additionally, the influence of the substituent in the α position to the phosphorus atom (H, Ph, 2-py, CN) on the reversibility of the reaction was studied. Extensive theoretical calculations for understanding the ring-closing mechanism suggested that a multi-step reaction with one or more intermediates was most probable.
Exploring the World of Membrane Proteins: Techniques and Methods for Understanding Structure, Function, and Dynamics
Authors: Boulos Imad , Jabbour Joy , Khoury Serena , Mikhael Nehme , Tishkova Victoria , Candoni Nadine , Ghadieh Hilda E. , Veesler Stéphane , Bassim Youssef , Azar Sami , Harb Frédéric
Published: October 2023

In eukaryotic cells, membrane proteins play a crucial role. They fall into three categories: intrinsic proteins, extrinsic proteins, and proteins that are essential to the human genome (30% of which is devoted to encoding them). Hydrophobic interactions inside the membrane serve to stabilize integral proteins, which span the lipid bilayer. This review investigates a number of computational and experimental methods used to study membrane proteins. It encompasses a variety of technologies, including electrophoresis, X-ray crystallography, cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM), nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR), biophysical methods, computational methods, and artificial intelligence. The link between structure and function of membrane proteins has been better understood thanks to these approaches, which also hold great promise for future study in the field. The significance of fusing artificial intelligence with experimental data to improve our comprehension of membrane protein biology is also covered in this paper. This effort aims to shed light on the complexity of membrane protein biology by investigating a variety of experimental and computational methods. Overall, the goal of this review is to emphasize how crucial it is to understand the functions of membrane proteins in eukaryotic cells. It gives a general review of the numerous methods used to look into these crucial elements and highlights the demand for multidisciplinary approaches to advance our understanding.
Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Efficacy of the Lipophilic Extract of Cirsium vulgare
Authors: Aydın Kurç Mine , Orak Hakime Hülya , Gülen Dumrul , Caliskan Hilmican , Argon Merve , Sabudak Temine
Published: October 2023

The aim of this study was to investigate the compounds in the hexane extract of Cirsium vulgare (Savi.) Ten. and to determine the antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant activities of different extracts. The Cirsium vulgare (NGBB 7229) plant was collected from Turkey’s Trakya region. Crude extracts were obtained using different solvents. The chemical composition of Cirsium vulgare was determined in hexane extract using gas chromatography mass spectrometry. The antioxidant activities of the extracts were evaluated by Trolox equivalent antioxidant activity (TEAC), ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), cupric-reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC), the β-carotene bleaching method, and the determination of superoxide anion scavenging activities. The antibacterial activity was tested against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus mirabilis, and Salmonella typhimurium, whereas the antifungal activity was tested against Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, Candida parapsilosis, Candida krusei, Penicillium chrysogenum, and Aspergillus fumigatus by applying microdilution methods. A total of 41 bioactive compounds were identified using the GC–MS library. Terpenoids were found to be dominant (52.89%), and lup-20(29)-en-3-yl-acetate and lupeol were the most abundant terpenoids. The highest total flavonoid content (25.73 mg catechin/g) and antioxidant capacity were found in the methanolic extract. The highest antibacterial activity was detected against Bacillus subtilis in the ethyl acetate extract, and the highest antifungal activity was found against Candida krusei and Aspergillus fumigatus in the hexane extract. The observed antioxidant characteristics of the C. vulgare extracts could be attributed to the presence of flavonoids. The high antifungal activity of the hexane extract against all fungal strains can be attributed to its constituents, i.e., terpenoids. This study discloses the potential antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, including some bioactive components, of Cirsium vulgare and implies that Cirsium vulgare holds possible applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries as an antioxidant, antibacterial, and antifungal agent.
Crystal Structure and Intermolecular Energy for Some Nandrolone Esters
Authors: Mare Liviu , Muresan-Pop Marieta , Purcea Lopes Pompilia Mioara , Turza Alexandru , Borodi Gheorghe , Popescu Violeta
Published: October 2023

Nandrolone (Estr-4-en-17β-ol-3-one) is a derivative of testosterone and a naturally occurring anabolic–androgenic agent which belongs to the steroid group. Crystal structures of four short, medium and long esterified forms of nandrolone, including propionate, phenylpropionate, cypionate and undecanoate were determined using single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Crystal packing, supramolecular features and intermolecular interactions were described based on a quantitative and qualitative Hirshfeld surfaces analysis accompanied by evaluation of crystal energies and intermolecular interactions computation. Also, the solubility of the esters was investigated from a pharmaceutical perspective.
New 5,5-(1,4-Phenylenebis(methyleneoxy)diisophthalic Acid Appended Zn(II) and Cd(II) MOFs as Potent Photocatalysts for Nitrophenols
Authors: Bin Hui-Shi , Hu Hai , Wang Jun , Lu Lu , Muddassir Mohd , Srivastava Devyani , Chauhan Ratna , Wu Yu , Wang Xiaoxiong , Kumar Abhinav
Published: October 2023

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are peculiar multimodal materials that find photocatalytic applications for the decomposition of lethal molecules present in the wastewater. In this investigation, two new d10-configuration-based MOFs, [Zn2(L)(H2O)(bbi)] (1) and [Cd2(L)(bbi)] (2) (5,5-(1,4-phenylenebis(methyleneoxy)diisophthalic acid (H2L) and 1,1′-(1,4-butanediyl)bis(imidazole) (bbi)), have been synthesized and characterized. The MOF 1 displayed a (4,6)-connected (3.43.52)(32.44.52.66.7) network topology, while 2 had a (3,10)-connected network with a Schläfli symbol of (410.511.622.72)(43)2. These MOFs have been employed as photocatalysts to photodegrade nitrophenolic compounds, especially p-nitrophenol (PNP). The photocatalysis studies reveal that 1 displayed relatively better photocatalytic performance than 2. Further, the photocatalytic efficacy of 1 has been assessed by altering the initial PNP concentration and photocatalyst dosage, which suggest that at 80 ppm PNP concentration and at its 50 mg concentration the MOF 1 can photo-decompose around 90.01% of PNP in 50 min. Further, radical scavenging experiments reveal that holes present over 1 and ·OH radicals collectively catalyze the photodecomposition of PNP. In addition, utilizing density of states (DOS) calculations and Hirshfeld surface analyses, a plausible photocatalysis mechanism for nitrophenol degradation has been postulated.
Fast Solution-Phase and Liquid-Phase Peptide Syntheses (SolPSS and LPPS) Mediated by Biomimetic Cyclic Propylphosphonic Anhydride (T3P®)
Authors: Mattellone Alexia , Corbisiero Dario , Cantelmi Paolo , Martelli Giulia , Palladino Chiara , Tolomelli Alessandra , Cabri Walter , Ferrazzano Lucia
Published: October 2023

The growing applications of peptide-based therapeutics require the development of efficient protocols from the perspective of an industrial scale-up. T3P® (cyclic propylphosphonic anhydride) promotes amidation in the solution-phase through a biomimetic approach, similar to the activation of carboxylic moiety catalyzed by ATP-grasp enzymes in metabolic pathways. The T3P® induced coupling reaction was applied in this study to the solution-phase peptide synthesis (SolPPS). Peptide bond formation occurred in a few minutes with high efficiency and no epimerization, generating water-soluble by-products, both using N-Boc or N-Fmoc amino acids. The optimized protocol, which was successfully applied to the iterative synthesis of a pentapeptide, also allowed for a decrease in the solvent volume, thus improving process sustainability. The protocol was finally extended to the liquid-phase peptide synthesis (LPPS), where the isolation of the peptide was performed using precipitation, thus also showing the suitability of this coupling reagent to this emerging technique.
Correction: Wang et al. Tribological Properties and Lubrication Mechanism of Nickel Nanoparticles as an Additive in Lithium Grease. Nanomaterials 2022, 12, 2287
Authors: Wang Jiabei , Zhang Hong , Hu Wenjing , Li Jiusheng
Published: October 2023

In the original publication [...]
Carbonized Leather Waste with Deposited Polypyrrole Nanotubes: Conductivity and Dye Adsorption
Authors: Stejskal Jaroslav , Ngwabebhoh Fahanwi Asabuwa , Trchová Miroslava , Prokeš Jan
Published: October 2023

This paper reports the conversion of a waste to a conducting material, exploiting the ability to adsorb pollutant organic dyes. Leather waste was carbonized at 800 °C in an inert nitrogen atmosphere. The resulting biochar was used for in-situ deposition of polypyrrole nanotubes produced by the oxidative polymerization of pyrrole in the presence of methyl orange. The composites of carbonized leather with deposited polypyrrole nanotubes of various composition were compared with similar composites based on globular polypyrrole. Their molecular structure was characterized by infrared and Raman spectra. Both conducting components formed a bicontinuous structure. The resistivity was newly determined by a four-point van der Pauw method and monitored as a function of pressure applied up to 10 MPa. The typical conductivity of composites was of the order of 0.1 to 1 S cm−1 and it was always higher for polypyrrole nanotubes than for globular polypyrrole. The method also allows for the assessment of mechanical features, such as powder fluffiness. The conductivity decreased by 1–2 orders of magnitude after treatment with ammonia but still maintained a level acceptable for applications operating under non-acidic conditions. The composites were tested for dye adsorption, specifically cationic methylene blue and anionic methyl orange, using UV-vis spectroscopy. The composites were designed for future use as functional adsorbents controlled by the electrical potential or organic electrode materials.