bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Functional Neurology Therapy in a Lactose-Intolerant Patient
Authors: Rey-Mota Jorge , Escribano-Colmena Guillermo , Álvarez David Martín-Caro , Vasquez Perez Jhulliana , Navarro-Jimenez Eduardo , Clemente-Suárez Vicente Javier
Published: August 2024

This case report examines the impact of a single session of functional neurology on a 35-year-old female patient diagnosed with lactose intolerance. The patient presented with severe gastrointestinal symptoms, including frequent diarrhea, bloating, and vomiting upon dairy consumption. The intervention aimed to reset dysfunctional neurological programs believed to contribute to her condition. The study utilized a standardized lactose intolerance breath test to measure the hydrogen and methane levels at various intervals before and after treatment. Post-treatment results showed symptomatic relief with the patient reporting normalized bowel movements and the absence of previous symptoms. Despite these improvements, the biochemical markers at higher time points (150 and 175 min) post-treatment remained similar to the pre-treatment values, indicating persistent lactose malabsorption and highlighting the variability of hydrogen measurements. This case report suggests that a single session of functional neurology can significantly alleviate the symptoms of lactose intolerance. However, the preliminary nature of these results underscores the need for further research involving larger sample sizes and long-term follow-up to fully understand the treatment’s efficacy and underlying mechanisms.
Using Zeolite Materials to Remove Pharmaceuticals from Water
Authors: Bajda Tomasz , Grela Agnieszka , Pamuła Justyna , Kuc Joanna , Klimek Agnieszka , Matusik Jakub , Franus Wojciech , Alagarsamy Santhana Krishna Kumar , Danek Tomasz , Gara Paweł
Published: August 2024

Pharmaceutical drugs, including antibiotics and hormonal agents, pose a significant threat to environmental and public health due to their persistent presence in aquatic environments. Colistin (KOL), fluoxetine (FLUO), amoxicillin (AMO), and 17-alpha-ethinylestradiol (EST) are pharmaceuticals (PhCs) that frequently exceed regulatory limits in water and wastewater. Current removal methods are mainly ineffective, necessitating the development of more efficient techniques. This study investigates the use of synthetic zeolite (NaP1_FA) and zeolite-carbon composites (NaP1_C), both derived from fly ash (FA), for the removal of KOL, FLUO, AMO, and EST from aquatic environments. Batch adsorption experiments assessed the effects of contact time, adsorbent dosage, initial concentration, and pH on the removal efficiency of the pharmaceuticals. The results demonstrated that NaP1_FA and NaP1_C exhibited high removal efficiencies for all tested pharmaceuticals, achieving over 90% removal within 2 min of contact time. The Behnajady-Modirshahla-Ghanbary (BMG) kinetic model best described the adsorption processes. The most effective sorption was observed with a sorbent dose of 1–2 g L−1. Regarding removal efficiency, the substances ranked in this order: EST was the highest, followed by AMO, KOL, and FLUO. Sorption efficiency was influenced by the initial pH of the solutions, with optimal performance observed at pH 2–2.5 for KOL and FLUO. The zeolite-carbon composite NaP1_C, due to its hydrophobic nature, showed superior sorption efficiency for hydrophobic pharmaceuticals like FLUO and EST. The spectral analysis reveals that the primary mechanism for immobilizing the tested PhCs on zeolite sorbents is mainly due to physical sorption. This study underscores the potential of utilizing inexpensive, fly ash-derived zeolites and zeolite-carbon composites to remove pharmaceuticals from water effectively. These findings contribute to developing advanced materials for decentralized wastewater treatment systems, directly addressing pollution sources in various facilities.
Study of Prefabricated Crack Propagation on Monocrystalline Silicon Surfaces for Grinding Damage Analysis
Authors: Zhao Bingyao , Huang Ning , Dai Siyang , Zhou Ping
Published: August 2024

Crack generation and propagation are critical aspects of grinding processes for hard and brittle materials. Despite extensive research, the impact of residual cracks from coarse grinding on the cracks generated during fine grinding remains unexplored. This study aims to bridge this gap by examining the propagation law of existing cracks under indentation using the extended finite element method. The results reveal that prefabricated cracks with depths less than the crack depth produced on an undamaged surface tend to extend further without surpassing the latter. Conversely, deeper prefabricated cracks do not exhibit significant expansion. A novel method combining indentation and prefabricated cracks with fracture strength tests is proposed to determine crack propagation. Silicon wafers with varying damaged surfaces are analyzed, and changes in fracture strength, measured by the ball-on-ring method, are utilized to determine crack propagation. The experimental results confirm the proposed crack evolution law, validated by damage assessments across different grinding processes, which is suitable for crack damage. The findings demonstrate that residual cracks from coarse grinding are negligible in predicting the maximum crack depth during fine grinding. This research provides a crucial foundation for optimizing the wafer thinning process in 3D stacked chip manufacturing, establishing that changes in fracture strength are a reliable indicator of crack propagation feasibility.
Semiactive Car-Seat System for Rear-End Collisions
Authors: Kaya Ali Gunes , Himmetoglu Selcuk
Published: August 2024

This study proposes and simulates a smart system that can be used in production car seats to decrease whiplash risk in rear-end crashes. A sliding seat incorporating a semiactively controlled magnetorheological (MR) damper model positioned under the seat-pan is simulated with a validated biofidelic human body model. Since this is the first study that demonstrates a computer controlled anti-whiplash car seat system to the best of the authors’ knowledge, a benchmark analysis is carried out to compare the proposed semiactive seat with a state-of-the-art passive anti-whiplash car seat using 23 different crash pulses, including the moderate and high severity crash pulses within the European New Car Assessment Program (EuroNCAP) whiplash risk assessment framework. The proposed semiactive design outperforms the passive seat design by further reducing the values of the critical EuroNCAP whiplash criteria, such as NIC and Nkm, together with the loads acting on the upper neck. The semiactive seat lowers the upper-neck shear force by an amount of 4 kg and 7 kg while lessening the NIC by 10% and 21% and Nkm by 9% and 56% for the EuroNCAP crash pulses, having a delta-V of 16 km/h and 24 km/h, respectively. The findings presented in this paper can aid in the design of car seats to further mitigate whiplash risk in rear-end crashes.
A Copula Discretization of Time Series-Type Model for Examining Climate Data
Authors: Fernando Dimuthu , Atutey Olivia , Diawara Norou
Published: August 2024

The study presents a comparative analysis of climate data under two scenarios: a Gaussian copula marginal regression model for count time series data and a copula-based bivariate count time series model. These models, built after comprehensive simulations, offer adaptable autocorrelation structures considering the daily average temperature and humidity data observed at a regional airport in Mobile, AL.
A Computational Model of the Secondary Hemostasis Pathway in Reaction Systems
Authors: Bendjeddou Asma , Brodo Linda , Falaschi Moreno , Tiezzi Elisa B. P.
Published: August 2024

Reaction Systems (RSs) are a computational framework inspired by biochemical mechanisms. An RS defines a finite set of reactions over a finite set of entities (molecules, proteins, etc). Starting from an initial set of entities (the initial state), a computation is performed by applying all reactions to a state in order to produce the following state, giving rise to a sequence of sets of entities. RSs have shown to be a general computational framework whose application ranges from the modeling of biological phenomena to molecular chemistry and computer science. In this paper, we contribute to research on the application of RSs for modeling biological systems. We consider the problem of modeling hemostasis, for which several models have been defined, starting from the 1960s. Previous models are based on sets of ordinary differential equations, while we develop a discrete model in RSs for pathways of the secondary hemostasis. Then, we implement our model in BioReSolve, a computational framework for RSs that we have previously defined which provides tools for the specification and verification of properties. By using the tools in BioReSolve we derive important observations on the model behaviour for hemostasis, and in particular, we study the role of three important inhibitors, verifying that their presence or absence leads to phenomena such as thrombophilia, or thromboembolism, or excessive coagulation, etc. We can also study computationally the causality relations between the molecules involved in the reactions showing which entities play a fundamental role, thus contributing to the design of more effective and specialized drugs. Our work can hence help to show how to model complex biological systems in RSs and derive computationally and biologically relevant properties of the systems.
Research on Stability and Bifurcation for Two-Dimensional Two-Parameter Squared Discrete Dynamical Systems
Authors: Liu Limei , Zhong Xitong
Published: August 2024

This study investigates a class of two-dimensional, two-parameter squared discrete dynamical systems. It determines the conditions for local stability at the fixed points for these proposed systems. Theoretical and numerical analyses are conducted to examine the bifurcation behavior of the proposed systems. Conditions for the existence of Naimark–Sacker bifurcation, transcritical bifurcation, and flip bifurcation are derived using center manifold theorem and bifurcation theory. Results of the theoretical analyses are validated by numerical simulation studies. Numerical simulations also reveal the complex bifurcation behaviors exhibited by the proposed systems and their advantage in image encryption.
Interactive Mesh Sculpting with Arbitrary Topologies in Head-Mounted VR Environments
Authors: Zhu Xiaoqiang , Yang Yifei
Published: August 2024

Shape modeling is a dynamic area in computer graphics with significant applications in computer-aided design, animation, architecture, and entertainment. Virtual sculpting, a key paradigm in free-form modeling, has traditionally been performed on desktop computers where users manipulate meshes with controllers and view the models on two-dimensional displays. However, the advent of Extended Reality (XR) technology has ushered in immersive interactive experiences, expanding the possibilities for virtual sculpting across various environments. A real-time virtual sculpting system implemented in a Virtual Reality (VR) setting is introduced in this paper, utilizing quasi-uniform meshes as the foundational structure. In our innovative sculpting system, we design an integrated framework encompassing a surface selection algorithm, mesh optimization technique, mesh deformation strategy, and topology fusion methodology, which are all tailored to meet the needs of the sculpting process. The universal, user-friendly sculpting tools designed to support free-form topology are offered in this system, ensuring that the meshes remain watertight, manifold, and free from self-intersections throughout the sculpting process. The models produced are versatile and suitable for use in diverse fields such as gaming, art, and education. Experimental results confirm the system’s real-time performance and universality, highlighting its user-centric design.
Optimal Production Strategies with Credit Sharing for Automakers under the Dual-Credit Policy
Authors: Cheng Yongwei
Published: August 2024

This paper investigates strategic production selections in scenarios of credit sharing between cooperative fuel vehicle (FV) automakers and new energy vehicle (NEV) automakers under the dual-credit policy. Three coopetition production strategies are formulated: the simultaneous production strategy, the FV priority production strategy, and the NEV priority production strategy. On the basis of these three production strategies, this study examines the optimal strategy for both parties in scenarios of no credit sharing, credit sharing dominated by the FV automaker, and credit sharing dominated by the NEV automaker. The simultaneous production strategy is the most conducive to both parties’ coexistence in the vehicle market, and the FV or NEV priority production strategy can be adopted to realize the Pareto optimization of their total profit in certain applicable intervals. Credit sharing will greatly change both parties’ applicable intervals and optimal strategy selections, and credit sharing dominated by FV automakers has been proven to effectively improve their social welfare with a low credit price. Interestingly, a high credit price is sometimes more important for the development of NEVs than the NEV cruising range and substitutability under the dual-credit policy. This study also demonstrates the impact of the credit coefficient, credit equilibrium, and NEV substitutability on both parties’ production decisions and credit sharing. Our study has important managerial implications and can be utilized as strategic guidance for FV/NEV automakers to pursue coopetition under the dual-credit policy.
A Dynamic Behavior Verification Method for Composite Smart Contracts Based on Model Checking
Authors: Jin Jun , Zhan Wenhao , Li Haisheng , Ding Yi , Li Jie
Published: August 2024

A composite smart contract can execute smart contracts that may belong to other owners or companies through external calls, bringing more security challenges to blockchain applications. Traditional static verification methods are inadequate for analyzing the dynamic execution of these contracts, resulting in misjudgment and omission issues. Therefore, this paper proposes a model checking approach based on dynamic behavior that verifies the security and business logic of composite smart contracts. Utilizing automata, the method models contracts, users, attackers, and extracts properties, focusing on six types of common security vulnerabilities. A thorough case study and experimental evaluation demonstrate the method’s efficiency in identifying vulnerabilities and ensuring alignment with business requirements. The UPPAAL tool is employed for comprehensive verification, proving its effectiveness in enhancing smart contract security.
The Impact of Physical Activity on Depression, Anxiety, and Stress during Pregnancy in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Alfaqih Abdulaziz M. , Alqassim Ahmad Y. , Hakami Mohammed H. , Sumayli Ahmed M. , Bakri Nawaf E. , Alhazmi Shorog A. , Ageeli Amal M. , Kobaice Remas A. , Hakami Nasser A. , Hamadah Abdullah Fouad , Masmali Alanoud M. , Hobani Alhassan H.
Published: August 2024

Background and Objective: This study aimed to explore the impact of physical activity on depression, anxiety, and stress among pregnant women in the Jazan region of Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among pregnant women attending randomly selected prenatal clinics in primary healthcare hospitals in Jazan, Saudi Arabia. The calculated sample size was 350. Data were collected conveniently through a semi-structured questionnaire covering demographic details, pregnancy-related characteristics, physical activity assessed using the Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire (PPAQ), and mental health parameters evaluated by the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21). The statistical analyses included descriptive statistics and Wilcoxon and Kruskal–Wallis rank sum tests, with significance levels set at p < 0.05. Results: The study involved 406 pregnant females. Nearly a third (31%) had a family history of depression, anxiety, or distress. The prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress was 62.6%, 68.7%, and 38.4%, respectively. The mean sedentary, light, moderate, vigorous, and total energy expenditures were 1.512, 24.35, 22.32, 4.84, and 53.02 metabolic equivalent tasks/day. Anxious females exhibited higher light activity (median 24, p = 0.033), while stressed ones showed higher light (median 25, p = 0.039), moderate (median 20, p < 0.001), and vigorous activity (median 3, p < 0.001). A significant association was observed between total energy expenditure and stress levels (p < 0.001). Conclusions: This study underscores the importance of physical activity in managing depression, anxiety, and stress among pregnant women in Jazan, Saudi Arabia. The findings suggest a need for tailored interventions to promote physical activity to improve mental well-being during pregnancy.
Effect of Al or Cu Content on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Zn Alloys Fabricated Using Continuous Casting and Extrusion
Authors: Sun Shineng , Yu Jie , Wang Chao
Published: August 2024

The effect of Al or Cu content on the microstructure and mechanical properties of continuous casting and extrusion Zn alloys has been studied by a room temperature tensile test, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscope. With the increase in Al content, the microstructure of continuous casting and extrusion Zn alloys slightly coarsens, and the lamellar eutectic structure increases. The changes in the above structural factors result in a slight decrease in strength and a significant increase in the elongation of Zn-Al alloys. The strength of Zn alloys increases as the Cu content increases due to the increased content and size of the second phase in the Zn alloys. This means that the mechanical properties of Zn alloys can be adjusted by a continuous casting and extrusion process, and the improvement of equipment capacity can improve the structure and morphology of the alloys.
Trimodal Grain Structured Aluminum Matrix Composites Regulated by Transitional Hetero-Domains
Authors: Guo Zhiqi , Fu Xiaowen , Wang Sijie , Tan Zhanqiu , Fan Genlian , Yue Zhenming , Li Zhiqiang
Published: August 2024

Aluminum matrix composites (AMCs) with hetero-grains exhibit high strength with good ductility. A trimodal grain structure composed of ultrafine grains (UFGs), fine grains (FGs) and coarse grains (CGs) prevents the pre-mature cracking of hetero-zone boundaries in conventional bimodal grain structures; thus, it is favored by AMCs. However, the design of the size and distribution of hetero-domains in trimodal AMCs is tough, with complicated multi-scale deformation mechanisms. This study tunes the distribution of FG domains elaborately via altering the volume fraction of FG from 10 vol.% to 60 vol.% and investigates the distribution effect of FG domains on strength–ductility synergy. The optimized 2024 Al matrix composites with 30 vol.% FG exhibited a tensile strength of over 700 MPa and an elongation of 7.5%, respectively, realizing a good combination of high strength and ductility. This work enlightens the heterostructure design with a balance between heterogeneous deformation induced (HDI) strain hardening and high-content soft phase induced strain homogenization.
Temperature Characteristics Modeling for GaN PA Based on PSO-ELM
Authors: Lin Qian , Wang Meiqian
Published: August 2024

In order to solve the performance prediction and design optimization of power amplifiers (PAs), the performance parameters of Gallium Nitride high-electron-mobility transistor (GaN HEMT) PAs at different temperatures are modeled based on the particle swarm optimization–extreme learning machine (PSO-ELM) and extreme learning machine (ELM) in this paper. Then, it can be seen that the prediction accuracy of the PSO-ELM model is superior to that of ELM with a minimum mean square error (MSE) of 0.0006, which indicates the PSO-ELM model has a stronger generalization ability when dealing with the nonlinear relationship between temperature and PA performance. Therefore, this investigation can provide vital theoretical support for the performance optimization of PA design.
Aquibium pacificus sp. nov., a Novel Mixotrophic Bacterium from Bathypelagic Seawater in the Western Pacific Ocean
Authors: Jiang Fan , Hao Xun , Li Ding , Zhu Xuying , Huang Jiamei , Lai Qiliang , Wang Jianning , Wang Liping , Shao Zongze
Published: August 2024

A novel Gram-stain-negative, facultatively anaerobic, and mixotrophic bacterium, designated as strain LZ166T, was isolated from the bathypelagic seawater in the western Pacific Ocean. The cells were short rod-shaped, oxidase- and catalase-positive, and motile by means of lateral flagella. The growth of strain LZ166T was observed at 10–45 °C (optimum 34–37 °C), at pH 5–10 (optimum 6–8), and in the presence of 0–5% NaCl (optimum 1–3%). A phylogenetic analysis based on the 16S rRNA gene showed that strain LZ166T shared the highest similarity (98.58%) with Aquibium oceanicum B7T and formed a distinct branch within the Aquibium genus. The genomic characterization, including average nucleotide identity (ANI, 90.73–76.79%), average amino identity (AAI, 88.50–79.03%), and digital DNA–DNA hybridization (dDDH, 36.1–22.2%) values between LZ166T and other species within the Aquibium genus, further substantiated its novelty. The genome of strain LZ166T was 6,119,659 bp in size with a 64.7 mol% DNA G+C content. The predominant fatty acid was summed feature 8 (C18:1ω7c and/or C18:1ω6c). The major polar lipids identified were diphosphatidylglycerol (DPG), phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), glycolipid (GL), and phosphatidylglycerol (PG), with ubiquinone-10 (Q-10) as the predominant respiratory quinone. The genomic annotation indicated the presence of genes for a diverse metabolic profile, including pathways for carbon fixation via the Calvin–Benson–Bassham cycle and inorganic sulfur oxidation. Based on the polyphasic taxonomic results, strain LZ166T represented a novel species of the genus Aquibium, for which the name Aquibium pacificus sp. nov. is proposed, with the type strain LZ166T (=MCCC M28807T = KACC 23148T = KCTC 82889T).
The Potential of Fish Oil Components and Manuka Honey in Tackling Chronic Wound Treatment
Authors: Clare Jenna , Lindley Martin R. , Ratcliffe Elizabeth
Published: August 2024

Chronic wounds are becoming an increasing burden on healthcare services, as they have extended healing times and are susceptible to infection, with many failing to heal, which can lead ultimately to amputation. Due to the additional rise in antimicrobial resistance and emergence of difficult-to-treat Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter spp. (ESKAPE pathogens), novel treatments will soon be required asides from traditional antibiotics. Many natural substances have been identified as having the potential to aid in both preventing infection and increasing the speed of wound closure processes. Manuka honey is already in some cases used as a topical treatment in the form of ointments, which in conjunction with dressings and fish skin grafts are an existing US Food and Drug Administration-approved treatment option. These existing treatment options indicate that fatty acids from fish oil and manuka honey are well tolerated by the body, and if the active components of the treatments were better understood, they could make valuable additions to topical treatment options. This review considers two prominent natural substances with established manufacturing and global distribution—marine based fatty acids (including their metabolites) and manuka honey—their function as antimicrobials and how they can aid in wound repair, two important aspects leading to resolution of chronic wounds.
Recent Progress in Synthesis of Alkyl Fluorinated Compounds with Multiple Contiguous Stereogenic Centers
Authors: Yin Xuemei , Wang Xihong , Song Lei , Zhang Junxiong , Wang Xiaoling
Published: August 2024

Organic fluorides are widely used in pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, material sciences, and other fields due to the special physical and chemical properties of fluorine atoms. The synthesis of alkyl fluorinated compounds bearing multiple contiguous stereogenic centers is the most challenging research area in synthetic chemistry and has received extensive attention from chemists. This review summarized the important research progress in the field over the past decade, including asymmetric electrophilic fluorination and the asymmetric elaboration of fluorinated substrates (such as allylic alkylation reactions, hydrofunctionalization reactions, Mannich addition reactions, Michael addition reactions, aldol addition reactions, and miscellaneous reactions), with an emphasis on synthetic methodologies, substrate scopes, and reaction mechanisms.
Functionalizing Thiosemicarbazones for Covalent Conjugation
Authors: Hohnsen Johannes , Rryci Lukas , Obretenova Diana , Friedel Joshua , Jouchaghani Shahab , Klein Axel
Published: August 2024

Thiosemicarbazones (TSCs) with their modular character (thiosemicarbazides + carbonyl compound) allow broad variation of up to four substituents on the main R1R2C=N(1)–NH–C(S)–N(4)R3R4 core and are thus interesting tools for the formation of conjugates or the functionalization of nanoparticles (NPs). In this work, di-2-pyridyl ketone was introduced for the coordination of metals and 9-anthraldehyde for luminescence as R1 and R2 to TSCs. R3 and R4 substituents were varied for the formation of conjugates. Amino acids were introduced at the N4 position to produce [R1R2TSC–spacer–amino acid] conjugates. Further, functions such as phosphonic acid (R–P(O)(OH)2), D-glucose, o-hydroquinone, OH, and thiol (SH) were introduced at the N4 position producing [R1R2TSC–spacer–anchor group] conjugates for direct NP anchoring. Phenyl, cyclohexyl, benzyl, ethyl and methyl were used as spacer units. Both phenyl phosphonic acid TSC derivatives were bound on TiO2 NPs as a first example of direct NP anchoring. [R1R2TSC–spacer–end group] conjugates including OH, S–Bn (Bn = benzyl), NH–Boc (Boc = tert-butyloxycarbonyl), COOtBu, C≡CH, or N3 end groups were synthesized for potential covalent binding to functional molecules or functionalized NPs through amide, ester, or triazole functions. The synthesis of the thiosemicarbazides H2NNH–C(S)–NR3R4 starting from amines, including amino acids, SCCl2 or CS2, and hydrazine and their condensation with dipyridyl ketone and anthraldehyde led to 34 new TSC derivatives. They were synthesized in up to six steps with overall yields ranging from 10 to 85% and were characterized by a combination of nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. UV-vis absorption and photoluminescence spectroscopy allowed us to easily trace the dipyridyl imine and anthracene chromophores.
Au Nanoshell-Based Lateral Flow Immunoassay for Colorimetric and Photothermal Dual-Mode Detection of Interleukin-6
Authors: Wen Congying , Dou Yue , Liu Yao , Jiang Xuan , Tu Xiaomei , Zhang Ruiqiao
Published: August 2024

Interleukin-6 (IL-6) detection and monitoring are of great significance for evaluating the progression of many diseases and their therapeutic efficacy. Lateral flow immunoassay (LFIA) is one of the most promising point-of-care testing (POCT) methods, yet suffers from low sensitivity and poor quantitative ability, which greatly limits its application in IL-6 detection. Hence, in this work, we integrated Aushell nanoparticles (NPs) as new LFIA reporters and achieved the colorimetric and photothermal dual-mode detection of IL-6. Aushell NPs were conveniently prepared using a galvanic exchange process. By controlling the shell thickness, their localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) peak was easily tuned to near-infrared (NIR) range, which matched well with the NIR irradiation light. Thus, the Aushell NPs were endowed with good photothermal effect. Aushell NPs were then modified with IL-6 detection antibody to construct Aushell probes. In the LFIA detection, the Aushell probes were combined with IL-6, which were further captured by the capture IL-6 antibody on the test line of the strip, forming a colored band. By observation with naked eyes, the colorimetric qualitative detection of IL-6 was achieved with limit of 5 ng/mL. By measuring the temperature rise of the test line with a portable infrared thermal camera, the photothermal quantitative detection of IL-6 was performed from 1~1000 ng/mL. The photothermal detection limit reached 0.3 ng/mL, which was reduced by nearly 20 times compared with naked-eye detection. Therefore, this Aushell-based LFIA efficiently improved the sensitivity and quantitative ability of commercial colloidal gold LFIA. Furthermore, this method showed good specificity, and kept the advantages of convenience, speed, cost-effectiveness, and portability. Therefore, this Aushell-based LFIA exhibits practical application potential in IL-6 POCT detection.
Competitive Adsorptive Mechanism of H2/N2 in LTA/FAU Zeolites by Molecular Simulations and Experiments
Authors: Dong Zixu , Wang Zhilu , Zhang Lina , Fu Qiang , Wang Ming
Published: August 2024

For industrial tail gas to be converted into high-purity hydrogen, the H2-N2 mixture needs to be separated efficiently. This work examined the adsorption characteristics and competitive mechanisms of H2 and N2 on LTA- and FAU-type zeolites, at 77 K, 298 K, and 0.1–10 bar by thoroughly analyzing results of adsorption capacity experiments and molecular simulations. In the Grand Canonical Monte Carlo (GCMC) simulations, the force field causing a molecular dipole of H2 and the polarization force field of N2 are first applied. The accuracy of the force field was experimentally verified. The findings indicate that N2 and H2 loading on Ca-FAU (Ca-LTA) are higher than Na-FAU (Na-LTA). On NaX at 77 K, the highest adsorption selectivity (N2/H2) is observed; on NaA at 298 K, it is the opposite. The GCMC data findings demonstrate that H2 and N2 have remarkably similar adsorption sites, with framework oxygen atoms and non-framework cations serving as the main adsorption sites for adsorbate molecules. Furthermore, the rate at which H2 diffuses is higher than that of N2. The study of redistribution charge before and after adsorption demonstrated that N2 has a greater affinity for the framework oxygen atoms than H2. This study provides a molecular theoretical foundation for the adsorption behavior of H2-N2 mixture in zeolites.
Dynamic and Static Regulation of Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate: Strategies, Challenges, and Future Directions in Metabolic Engineering
Authors: Ding Nana , Yuan Zenan , Sun Lei , Yin Lianghong
Published: August 2024

Reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) is a crucial cofactor in metabolic networks. The efficient regeneration of NADPH is one of the limiting factors for productivity in biotransformation processes. To date, many metabolic engineering tools and static regulation strategies have been developed to regulate NADPH regeneration. However, traditional static regulation methods often lead to the NADPH/NADP+ imbalance, causing disruptions in cell growth and production. These methods also fail to provide real-time monitoring of intracellular NADP(H) or NADPH/NADP+ levels. In recent years, various biosensors have been developed for the detection, monitoring, and dynamic regulate of the intracellular NADP(H) levels or the NADPH/NADP+ balance. These NADPH-related biosensors are mainly used in the cofactor engineering of bacteria, yeast, and mammalian cells. This review analyzes and summarizes the NADPH metabolic regulation strategies from both static and dynamic perspectives, highlighting current challenges and potential solutions, and discusses future directions for the advanced regulation of the NADPH/NADP+ balance.
Thermodynamic Studies of Complexes in Cu(II)/Uridine-5′-Diphosphoglucuronic Acid System
Authors: Stachowiak Klaudia , Zabiszak Michal , Grajewski Jakub , Teubert Anna , Bajek Anna , Jastrzab Renata
Published: August 2024

A binary system of uridine-5′-diphosphoglucuronic acid with copper (II) ions was studied. Potentiometric studies in aqueous solutions using computer data analysis were carried out. The pH of dominance, the overall stability constants (logβ), and the equilibrium constants of the formation reaction (logKe) were determined for each complex compound formed in the studied system. Spectroscopic studies were carried out to determine the mode of coordination in the compounds studied. Cytotoxicity and metabolic activity tests of the compounds obtained showed an increase in the biological activity of the complexes tested against the free ligand. The current research may contribute to the knowledge of complex compounds of biomolecules found in the human body and may also contribute to the characterization of a group of complex compounds with potential anticancer properties.
The Impact of Cyclodextrins on the Physiology of Candida boidinii: Exploring New Opportunities in the Cyclodextrin Application
Authors: Márton Rita , Margl Márk , Tóth Lilla Kinga , Fenyvesi Éva , Szente Lajos , Molnár Mónika
Published: August 2024

Cyclodextrins, commonly used as excipients in antifungal formulations to improve the physicochemical properties and availability of the host molecules, have not been systematically studied for their effects and bioactivity without a complex active substance. This paper evaluates the effects of various cyclodextrins on the physiology of the test organism Candida boidinii. The research examines their impact on yeast growth, viability, biofilm formation and morphological changes. Native ACD, BCD, randomly methylated α- and β-CD and quaternary ammonium α-CD and β-CD were investigated in the 0.5–12.5 mM concentration range in both static and dynamic systems. The study revealed that certain cyclodextrins exhibited notable antifungal effects (up to ~69%) in dynamic systems; however, the biofilm formation was enhanced in static systems. The magnitude of these effects was influenced by several variables, including the size of the internal cavity, the concentration and structure of the cyclodextrins, and the contact time. Furthermore, the study found that CDs exhibited distinct effects in both static and dynamic systems, potentially related to their tendency to form aggregates. The findings suggest that cyclodextrins may have the potential to act as antifungal agents or growth promoters, depending on their structure and surrounding environments.
Quantitative Analysis of Pb in Soil Using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy Based on Signal Enhancement of Conductive Materials
Authors: Li Shefeng , Zheng Qi , Liu Xiaodan , Liu Peng , Yu Long
Published: August 2024

Studying efficient and accurate soil heavy-metal detection technology is of great significance to establishing a modern system for monitoring soil pollution, early warning and risk assessment, which contributes to the continuous improvement of soil quality and the assurance of food safety. Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) is considered to be an emerging and effective tool for heavy-metal detection, compared with traditional detection technologies. Limited by the soil matrix effect, the LIBS signal of target elements for soil heavy-metal detection is prone to interference, thereby compromising the accuracy of quantitative detection. Thus, a series of signal-enhancement methods are investigated. This study aims to explore the effect of conductive materials of NaCl and graphite on the quantitative detection of lead (Pb) in soil using LIBS, seeking to find a reliable signal-enhancement method of LIBS for the determination of soil heavy-metal elements. The impact of the addition amount of NaCl and graphite on spectral intensity and parameters, including the signal-to-background ratio (SBR), signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and relative standard deviation (RSD), were investigated, and the mechanism of signal enhancement by NaCl and graphite based on the analysis of the three-dimensional profile data of ablation craters and plasma parameters (plasmatemperature and electron density) were explored. Univariate and multivariate quantitative analysis models including partial least-squares regression (PLSR), least-squares support vector machine (LS-SVM), and extreme learning machine (ELM) were developed for the quantitative detection of Pb in soil with the optimal amount of NaCl and graphite, and the performance of the models was further compared. The PLSR model with the optimal amount of graphite obtained the best prediction performance, with an Rp that reached 0.994. In addition, among the three spectral lines of Pb, the univariate model of Pb I 405.78 nm showed the best prediction performance, with an Rp of 0.984 and the lowest LOD of 26.142 mg/kg. The overall results indicated that the LIBS signal-enhancement method based on conductive materials combined with appropriate chemometric methods could be a potential tool for the accurate quantitative detection of Pb in soil and could provide a reference for environmental monitoring.
Synthesis and Evaluation of Chloride-Substituted Ramalin Derivatives for Alzheimer’s Disease Treatment
Authors: Kim Tai Kyoung , Cho Yongeun , Kim Jaewon , Lee Jeongmi , Hong Ju-Mi , Cho Heewon , Kim Jun-Sik , Lee Yeongyeong , Kim Kyung Hee , Kim Il-Chan , Han Se Jong , Oh Hyuncheol , Jo Dong-Gyu , Yim Joung Han
Published: August 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder marked by the accumulation of amyloid-beta plaques and hyperphosphorylated tau proteins, leading to cognitive decline and neuronal death. However, despite extensive research, there are still no effective treatments for this condition. In this study, a series of chloride-substituted Ramalin derivatives is synthesized to optimize their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and their potential to target key pathological features of Alzheimer’s disease. The effect of the chloride position on these properties is investigated, specifically examining the potential of these derivatives to inhibit tau aggregation and beta-site amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE-1) activity. Our findings demonstrate that several derivatives, particularly RA-3Cl, RA-4Cl, RA-26Cl, RA-34Cl, and RA-35Cl, significantly inhibit tau aggregation with inhibition rates of approximately 50%. For BACE-1 inhibition, Ramalin and RA-4Cl also significantly decrease BACE-1 expression in N2a cells by 40% and 38%, respectively, while RA-23Cl and RA-24Cl showed inhibition rates of 30% and 35% in SH-SY5Y cells. These results suggest that chloride-substituted Ramalin derivatives possess promising multifunctional properties for AD treatment, warranting further investigation and optimization for clinical applications.
Synthesis of N-(3-Acyloxyacyl)glycines, Small Molecules with Potential Role in Gut Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Communication
Authors: Villano Rosaria , Di Marzo Vincenzo
Published: August 2024

The synthesis of some N-(3-acyloxyacyl)glycines, an interesting class of bioactive gut microbiota metabolites, is described. This procedure involves seven reaction steps using the commercially available Meldrum’s acid to obtain highly pure products, in normal or deuterated form. The key point of the synthetic strategy was the use of commendamide t-butyl ester as a synthetic intermediate, a choice that allowed the removal of the protecting group at the end of the synthetic procedure without degrading of the other ester bond present in the molecule. The developed synthetic sequence is particularly simple, uses readily available reagents and involves a limited number of purifications by chromatographic column, with a reduction in the volume of solvent and energy used.
Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Xanthones from Hypericum beanii on Macrophage RAW 264.7 Cells through Reduced NO Production and TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and COX-2 Expression
Authors: Ma Wei , Ren Fu-Cai , Wang Xue-Ru , Li Ning
Published: August 2024

Hypericum beanii N. Robson, a perennial upright herb, predominantly inhabits temperate regions. This species has been utilized for the treatment of various inflammation-related diseases. One new xanthone 3,7-dihydroxy-1,6-dimethoxyxanthone (1) and twenty-three known xanthones (2–24) were isolated from the aerial parts of H. beanii. The structure of the new compound was determined based on high-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectroscopy (HR-ESIMS), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), Infrared Spectroscopy (IR), ultraviolet spectrophotometry (UV) spectroscopic data. The anti-inflammatory effects of all the isolates were assessed by measuring the inhibitory effect on nitric oxide (NO) production in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. Compounds 3,4-dihydroxy-2-methoxyxanthone (15), 1,3,5,6-tetrahydroxyxanthone (19), and 1,3,6,7-tetrahydroxyxanthone (22) exhibited significant anti-inflammatory effects at a concentration of 10 μM with higher potency compared to the positive control quercetin. Furthermore, compounds 15, 19, and 22 reduced inducible NO synthase (iNOS), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) mRNA expression in the LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages, suggesting that these compounds may mitigate the synthesis of the aforementioned molecules at the transcriptional level, provisionally confirming their anti-inflammatory efficacy.
Establishing the Thermodynamic Cards of Dipine Models’ Oxidative Metabolism on 21 Potential Elementary Steps
Authors: Shen Guang-Bin , Gao Shun-Hang , Jia Yan-Wei , Zhu Xiao-Qing , Qian Bao-Chen
Published: August 2024

Dipines are a type of important antihypertensive drug as L-calcium channel blockers, whose core skeleton is the 1,4-dihydropyridine structure. Since the dihydropyridine ring is a key structural factor for biological activity, the thermodynamics of the aromatization dihydropyridine ring is a significant feature parameter for understanding the mechanism and pathways of dipine metabolism in vivo. Herein, 4-substituted-phenyl-2,6-dimethyl-3,5-diethyl-formate-1,4-dihydropyridines are refined as the structurally closest dipine models to investigate the thermodynamic potential of dipine oxidative metabolism. In this work, the thermodynamic cards of dipine models’ aromatization on 21 potential elementary steps in acetonitrile have been established. Based on the thermodynamic cards, the thermodynamic properties of dipine models and related intermediates acting as electrons, hydrides, hydrogen atoms, protons, and two hydrogen ions (atoms) donors are discussed. Moreover, the thermodynamic cards are applied to evaluate the redox properties, and judge or reveal the possible oxidative mechanism of dipine models.
A Formal Synthesis of (+)-Hannokinol Using a Chiral Horner–Wittig Reagent
Authors: Tapera Michael , Borghi Federica , Mayer-Figge Jan Lukas , Mittendorf Fabia , Celik Ibrahim-Ethem , Gómez-Suárez Adrián , Kirsch Stefan F.
Published: August 2024

Herein, we report a concise and efficient formal synthesis of (+)-hannokinol. Key to this new strategy is the use of a chiral Horner–Wittig reagent, readily available from 2-deoxy-D-ribose, to introduce the chiral 1,3-diol motif.
Enhanced Removal of Cd(II) Ions from Aqueous Media via Adsorption on Facilely Synthesized Copper Ferrite Nanoparticles
Authors: Al-Kadhi Nada S. , Basha Maram T.
Published: August 2024

In this study, magnetic copper ferrite (CuFe2O4) nanoparticles were synthesized via the Pechini sol-gel method and evaluated for the removal of Cd(II) ions from aqueous solutions. PF600 and PF800 refer to the samples that were synthesized at 600 °C and 800 °C, respectively. Comprehensive characterization using FTIR, XRD, FE-SEM, HR-TEM, and EDX confirmed the successful formation of CuFe2O4 spinel structures, with crystallite sizes of 22.64 nm (PF600) and 30.13 nm (PF800). FE-SEM analysis revealed particle diameters of 154.98 nm (PF600) and 230.05 nm (PF800), exhibiting spherical and irregular shapes. HR-TEM analysis further confirmed the presence of aggregated nanoparticles with average diameters of 52.26 nm (PF600) and 98.32 nm (PF800). The PF600 and PF800 nanoparticles exhibited exceptional adsorption capacities of 377.36 mg/g and 322.58 mg/g, respectively, significantly outperforming many materials reported in the literature. Adsorption followed the Langmuir isotherm model and pseudo-second-order kinetics, indicating monolayer adsorption and strong physisorption. The process was spontaneous, exothermic, and predominantly physical. Reusability tests demonstrated high adsorption efficiency across multiple cycles when desorbed with a 0.5 M ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) solution, emphasizing the practical applicability of these nanoparticles. The inherent magnetic properties of CuFe2O4 facilitated easy separation from the aqueous medium using a magnet, enabling efficient and cost-effective recovery of the adsorbent. These findings highlight the potential of CuFe2O4 nanoparticles, particularly PF600, for the effective and sustainable removal of Cd(II) ions from water.
Investigation of the Sensing Properties of Lanthanoid Metal–Organic Frameworks (Ln-MOFs) with Terephthalic Acid
Authors: Elenkova Denitsa , Dimitrova Yana , Tsvetkov Martin , Morgenstern Bernd , Milanova Maria , Todorovsky Dimitar , Zaharieva Joana
Published: August 2024

The solvothermal synthesis of LnCl3.nH2O with terephthalic acid (benzene-1,4-dicarboxylic acid, H2BDC) produced metal–organic frameworks (LnBDC), [Ln2(BDC)3(H2O)4]∞, where Ln = Sm, Eu, Tb, and Dy. The materials obtained were characterized by a number of physico-chemical techniques. The influence of the ionic radius of the lanthanides on the microstructural characteristics of the Ln-MOFs was evaluated by performing Rietveld refinement. The MOFs obtained were tested as fluorescent sensors for numerous cations and anions in water. The highly luminescent EuBDC and TbBDC demonstrated multi-responsive luminescence sensing functions to detect Ag(I), Fe(III), Cr(III), and Cr(VI), which are essential for their environmental applications. By applying the non-linear Stern–Volmer equation, the fluorescent quenching mechanism was determined. The stability of the obtained materials in water in a wide pH range (acidity pH = 4 and alkalinity pH = 9 solutions) was confirmed.
Nano-Biochar Prepared from High-Pressure Homogenization Improves Thermal Conductivity of Ethylene Glycol-Based Coolant
Authors: Wang Youheng , Hou Xianjun , Yu Hong , Guan Weiwei , Ma Yuxin , Ali Mohamed Kamal Ahmed
Published: August 2024

As an environmentally friendly material, biochar is increasingly being utilized in the field of heat transfer and thermal conduction. In this study, nano-biochar was prepared from high-pressure homogenization (HPH) using sesame stalks as the raw material. It was incorporated into ethylene glycol (EG) and its dispersion stability, viscosity, and thermal conductivity were investigated. The nano-biochar was stably dispersed in EG for 28 days. When the concentration of the nano-biochar added to EG was less than 1%, the impact on viscosity was negligible. The addition of 5 wt.% nano-biochar to EG improved the thermal conductivity by 6.72%, which could be attributed to the graphitized structure and Brownian motion of the nano-biochar. Overall, nano-biochar has the potential to be applied in automotive thermal management.