bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
S-nitrosothiol homeostasis maintained by ADH5 facilitates STING-dependent host defense against pathogens
Authors: Jia Mutian , Chai Li , Wang Jie , Wang Mengge , Qin Danhui , Song Hui , Fu Yue , Zhao Chunyuan , Gao Chengjiang , Jia Jihui , Zhao Wei
Published: February 2024

Oxidative (or respiratory) burst confers host defense against pathogens by generating reactive species, including reactive nitrogen species (RNS). The microbial infection-induced excessive RNS damages many biological molecules via S-nitrosothiol (SNO) accumulation. However, the mechanism by which the host enables innate immunity activation during oxidative burst remains largely unknown. Here, we demonstrate that S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO), the main endogenous SNO, attenuates innate immune responses against herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1) and Listeria monocytogenes infections. Mechanistically, GSNO induces the S-nitrosylation of stimulator of interferon genes (STING) at Cys257, inhibiting its binding to the second messenger cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate (cGAMP). Alcohol dehydrogenase 5 (ADH5), the key enzyme that metabolizes GSNO to decrease cellular SNOs, facilitates STING activation by inhibiting S-nitrosylation. Concordantly, Adh5 deficiency show defective STING-dependent immune responses upon microbial challenge and facilitates viral replication. Thus, cellular oxidative burst-induced RNS attenuates the STING-mediated innate immune responses to microbial infection, while ADH5 licenses STING activation by maintaining cellular SNO homeostasis.
DNA and RNA base editors can correct the majority of pathogenic single nucleotide variants
Authors: Dadush Ariel , Merdler-Rabinowicz Rona , Gorelik David , Feiglin Ariel , Buchumenski Ilana , Pal Lipika R. , Ben-Aroya Shay , Ruppin Eytan , Levanon Erez Y.
Published: February 2024

The majority of human genetic diseases are caused by single nucleotide variants (SNVs) in the genome sequence. Excitingly, new genomic techniques known as base editing have opened efficient pathways to correct erroneous nucleotides. Due to reliance on deaminases, which have the capability to convert A to I(G) and C to U, the direct applicability of base editing might seem constrained in terms of the range of mutations that can be reverted. In this evaluation, we assess the potential of DNA and RNA base editing methods for treating human genetic diseases. Our findings indicate that 62% of pathogenic SNVs found within genes can be amended by base editing; 30% are G>A and T>C SNVs that can be corrected by DNA base editing, and most of them by RNA base editing as well, and 29% are C>T and A>G SNVs that can be corrected by DNA base editing directed to the complementary strand. For each, we also present several factors that affect applicability such as bystander and off-target occurrences. For cases where editing the mismatched nucleotide is not feasible, we introduce an approach that calculates the optimal substitution of the deleterious amino acid with a new amino acid, further expanding the scope of applicability. As personalized therapy is rapidly advancing, our demonstration that most SNVs can be treated by base editing is of high importance. The data provided will serve as a comprehensive resource for those seeking to design therapeutic base editors and study their potential in curing genetic diseases.
Frequency-specific and periodic masking of peripheral characters by delayed foveal input
Authors: Goktepe Nedim , Schütz Alexander C.
Published: February 2024

The foveal-feedback mechanism supports peripheral object recognition by processing information about peripheral objects in foveal retinotopic visual cortex. When a foveal object is asynchronously presented with a peripheral target, peripheral discrimination performance is affected differently depending on the relationship between the foveal and peripheral objects. However, it is not clear whether the delayed foveal input competes for foveal resources with the information processed by foveal-feedback or masks it. In the current study, we tested these hypotheses by measuring the effect of foveal noise at different spatial frequencies on peripheral discrimination of familiar and novel characters. Our results showed that the impairment of foveal-feedback was strongest for low-spatial frequency noise. A control experiment revealed that for spatially overlapping noise, low-spatial frequencies were more effective than medium-spatial frequencies in the periphery, but vice versa in the fovea. This suggests that the delayed foveal input selectively masks foveal-feedback when it is sufficiently similar to the peripheral information. Additionally, this foveal masking was periodic as evidenced by behavioral oscillations at around 5 Hz. Thus, we conclude that foveal-feedback supports peripheral discrimination of familiar and novel objects by periodically processing peripheral object information.
Objectively measured peri-vaccination sleep does not predict COVID-19 breakthrough infection
Authors: Jaiswal Stuti J. , Gadaleta Matteo , Quer Giorgio , Radin Jennifer M. , Waalen Jill , Ramos Edward , Pandit Jay , Owens Robert L.
Published: February 2024

Prior studies have shown that sleep duration peri-vaccination influences an individual’s antibody response. However, whether peri-vaccination sleep affects real-world vaccine effectiveness is unknown. Here, we tested whether objectively measured sleep around COVID-19 vaccination affected breakthrough infection rates. DETECT is a study of digitally recruited participants who report COVID-19-related information, including vaccination and illness data. Objective sleep data are also recorded through activity trackers. We compared the impact of sleep duration, sleep efficiency, and frequency of awakenings on reported breakthrough infection after the 2nd vaccination and 1st COVID-19 booster. Logistic regression models were created to examine if sleep metrics predicted COVID-19 breakthrough infection independent of age and gender. Self-reported breakthrough COVID-19 infection following 2nd COVID-19 vaccination and 1st booster. 256 out of 5265 individuals reported a breakthrough infection after the 2nd vaccine, and 581 out of 2583 individuals reported a breakthrough after the 1st booster. There was no difference in sleep duration between those with and without breakthrough infection. Increased awakening frequency was associated with breakthrough infection after the 1st booster with 3.01 ± 0.65 awakenings/hour in the breakthrough group compared to 2.82 ± 0.65 awakenings/hour in those without breakthrough (P < 0.001). Cox proportional hazards modeling showed that age < 60 years (hazard ratio 2.15, P < 0.001) and frequency of awakenings (hazard ratio 1.17, P = 0.019) were associated with breakthrough infection after the 1st booster. Sleep duration was not associated with breakthrough infection after COVID vaccination. While increased awakening frequency during sleep was associated with breakthrough infection beyond traditional risk factors, the clinical implications of this finding are unclear.
Sleep disorders and associated factors among medical students in the Middle East and North Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chaabane Sonia , Chaabna Karima , Khawaja Salina , Aboughanem Jasmine , Mittal Dhruv , Mamtani Ravinder , Cheema Sohaila
Published: February 2024

Sleep disturbances like poor and insufficient sleep are common among medical students in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) countries; however, the extent of medically defined sleep disorders (SDs) remains unclear. This meta-analysis determines SD prevalence and identifies associated factors among medical students in the MENA. PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and reference lists of included studies were searched (latest search: June 2022). Meta-analyses included 22 studies and were performed using random-effect models. Included studies used self-reported screening tools for assessing SDs and then estimated the proportion of participants at high risk of developing a SD. Central disorders of hypersomnolence were the most prevalent SD [prevalencepooledrange: 30.9% (Jordan) to 62.5% (Saudi Arabia)], followed by insomnia disorders [prevalencepooledrange: 30.4% (Jordan) to 59.1% (Morocco)], circadian rhythm sleep–wake disorders [prevalencepooledrange: 13.5% (Jordan) to 22.4% (Saudi Arabia)], sleep-related breathing disorders [prevalencepooledrange: 12.2% (Jordan) to 22.5% (Pakistan)], sleep-related movement disorders [prevalencepooledrange: 5.9% (Egypt) to 30.6% (Saudi Arabia)], and parasomnias [prevalencepooledrange: 5.6% (Jordan) to 17.4% (Saudi Arabia)]. Female sex, studying in the latter academic years, having anxiety, excessive internet use, and poor academic performance were significantly associated with SDs. SDs are prevalent among MENA medical students. Implementing student-centered interventions targeting high risk groups in medical schools should be considered to improve students’ health and wellbeing.
Co-sonicated coacervation for high-efficiency green nanoencapsulation of phytosterols by colloidal non-biotoxic solid lipid nanoparticles
Authors: Mahdlou Zolfaghar , Dehkharghani Rahebeh Amiri , Niazi Ali , Tamaddon Atefeh , Ebrahimi Maryam Tajabadi
Published: February 2024

Plant sterols are used as a supplement or an additive to reduce LDL cholesterol. The poor dispersibility and instability of phytosterols are the main limitations of their application. So, we tried to overcome these problems through nanoencapsulation of them with colloidal natural RSs (SLNs) using an effective approach to achieve higher efficiency and less intrinsic coagulation. Phytosterols extracted from flax seeds oil with caffeine by a new method were encapsulated with a stable colloid of sheep fat and ostrich oil (1:2), soy lecithin, and glucose through co-sonicated coacervation. Characterization of the obtained SLNs was conducted using FTIR, UV–Vis, SEM, DLS, and GC analysis. The three–factor three–level Behnken design (BBD) was used to prioritize the factors affecting the coacervation process to optimize particle size and loading capacity of SLNs. Operational conditions were examined, revealing that the size of SLNs was below 100 nm, with a phytosterols content (EE %) of 85.46% with high positive zeta potential. The nanocapsules' anti-microbial activity and drug-release behavior were then evaluated using the CFU count method and Beer-Lambert's law, respectively. The controlled release of nanocapsules (below 20%) at ambient temperature has been tested. The stability of nano-encapsulated phytosterols was investigated for six months. All results show that this green optimal coacervation is a better way than conventional methods to produce stable SLNs for the nanoencapsulation of phytosterols.
Leader–follower UAVs formation control based on a deep Q-network collaborative framework
Authors: Liu Zhijun , Li Jie , Shen Jian , Wang Xiaoguang , Chen Pengyun
Published: February 2024

This study examines a collaborative framework that utilizes an intelligent deep Q-network to regulate the formation of leader–follower Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). The aim is to tackle the challenges posed by the highly dynamic and uncertain flight environment of UAVs. In the context of UAVs, we have developed a dynamic model that captures the collective state of the system. This model encompasses variables like as the relative positions, heading angle, rolling angle, and velocity of different nodes in the formation. In the subsequent section, we elucidate the operational procedure of UAVs in a collaborative manner, employing the conceptual framework of Markov Decision Process (MDP). Furthermore, we employ the Reinforcement Learning (RL) to facilitate this process. In light of this premise, a fundamental framework is presented for addressing the control problem of UAVs utilizing the DQN scheme. This framework encompasses a technique for action selection known as $$\varepsilon$$
ε
-imitation, as well as algorithmic specifics. Finally, the efficacy and portability of the DQN-based approach are substantiated by numerical simulation validation. The average reward curve demonstrates a satisfactory level of convergence, and kinematic link between the nodes inside the formation satisfies the essential requirements for the creation of a controller.
Integration of B-to-B trade network models of structural evolution and monetary flows reproducing all major empirical laws
Authors: Ozaki Jun’ichi , Viegas Eduardo , Takayasu Hideki , Takayasu Misako
Published: February 2024

We develop a single two-layered model framework that captures and replicates both the statistical properties of the network as well as those of the intrinsic quantities of the agents. Our model framework consists of two distinct yet connected elements that were previously only studied in isolation, namely methods related to temporal network structures and those associated with money transport flows. Within this context, the network structure emerges from the first layer and its topological structure is transferred to the second layer associated with the money transactions. In this manner, we can explain how the micro-level dynamics of the agents within the network lead to the exogenous manifestation of the aggregated system statistical data en-wrapping the very same agents within the system. This is done by capturing the essential dynamics of collective motion in complex networks that enable the simultaneous emergence of tent-shaped distributions in growth rates within the agents, together with the emergence of scaling properties within the network in the study. We can validate the model framework and dynamics by applying these to the context of the real-world inter-firm trading network of firms in Japan and comparing the results of the statistical distributions at both network and agent levels in a temporal manner. In particular, we compare our results to the fundamental quantities supporting the seven empirical laws observed in data: the degree distribution, the mean degree growth rate over time, the age distribution of the firms, the preferential attachment, the sales distribution in steady states, their growth rates, their scaling relations generated by the model. We find these results to be nearly identical to the real-world data. The framework has the potential to be transformed into a forecasting tool to support decision-makers on financial and prudential policies.
Fabrication of CP-Ti structure with controllable wettability using powder bed fusion and eco-friendly post-process
Authors: Oh Won-Jung , Kim Donghyun , Kim Dong-Hyun , Chun Doo-Man , Ha Jeonghong , Kim Chung-Soo
Published: February 2024

Hydrophobic surfaces have a wide range of applications, such as water harvesting, self-cleaning, and anti-biofouling. However, traditional methods of achieving hydrophobicity often involve the use of toxic materials such as fluoropolymers. This study aims to create controllable wettability surfaces with a three-dimensional geometry using a laser base powder bed fusion (PBF) process with commercially pure titanium (CP-Ti) and silicone oil as non-toxic materials. The optimal PBF process parameters for fabricating micropillar structures, which are critical for obtaining the surface roughness necessary for achieving hydrophobic properties, were investigated experimentally. After fabricating the micropillar structures using PBF, their surface energy was reduced by treatment with silicone oil. Silicone oil provides a low-surface-energy coating that contributes to the water-repellent nature of hydrophobic surfaces. The wettability of the treated CP-Ti surfaces was evaluated based on the diameter of the pillars and the space between them. The structure with the optimal diameter and spacing of micropillars exhibited a high contact angle (156.15°). A pronounced petal effect (sliding angle of 25.9°) was achieved because of the morphology of the pillars, indicating the controllability of wetting. The micropillar diameter, spacing, and silicone oil played crucial roles in determining the water contact and sliding angle, which are key metrics for surface wettability.
Nutritional status in patients with chronic pancreatitis and liver cirrhosis is related to disease conditions and not dietary habits
Authors: Bruns Niklas , Meyer Fatuma , Rischmüller Karen , Frost Fabian , Tran Quang Trung , Ittermann Till , Bahls Martin , Valentini Luzia , Lamprecht Georg , Lerch Markus M. , Aghdassi Ali A. , Wiese Mats L.
Published: February 2024

Malnutrition is a common complication of chronic pancreatitis (CP) and liver cirrhosis (LC). Inadequate food intake is considered a relevant driver of malnutrition in both entities. However, the contribution of habitual diet to impaired nutritional status is unclear. In a prospective, multicenter cross-sectional study, we recruited patients with confirmed CP or LC and healthy volunteers as a control group. Malnutrition was diagnosed according to the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition criteria. We comprehensively investigated habitual dietary intake on nutrient, food group, and dietary pattern level applying two validated food frequency questionnaires. We included 144 patients (CP: n = 66; LC: n = 78) and 94 control subjects. Malnutrition was prevalent in 64% and 62% of patients with CP or LC, respectively. In both CP and LC, despite slightly altered food group consumption in malnourished and non-malnourished patients there were no differences in energy or nutrient intake as well as dietary quality. Compared to controls patients showed distinct dietary food group habits. Patients consumed less alcohol but also lower quantities of fruits and vegetables as well as whole grain products (p < 0.001, respectively). Nevertheless, overall dietary quality was comparable between patients and healthy controls. Nutritional status in CP and LC patients is rather related to disease than habitual dietary intake supporting the relevance of other etiologic factors for malnutrition such as malassimilation or chronic inflammation. Despite distinct disease-related differences, overall dietary quality in patients with CP or LC was comparable to healthy subjects, which suggests susceptibility to dietary counselling and the benefits of nutrition therapy in these entities.
Assessment of low-carbon tourism development from multi-aspect analysis: a case study of the Yellow River Basin, China
Authors: Si Xiaopeng , Tang Zi
Published: February 2024

Climate change has become an unavoidable problem in achieving sustainable development. As one of the major industries worldwide, tourism can make a significant contribution to mitigating climate change. The main objective of the paper is to assess the development level of low-carbon tourism from multi-aspect, using the Yellow River Basin as an example. Firstly, this study quantified tourism carbon dioxide emissions and tourism economy, and analyzed their evolution characteristics. The interaction and coordination degree between tourism carbon dioxide emissions and tourism economy were then analyzed using the improved coupling coordination degree model. Finally, this study analyzed the change in total factor productivity of low-carbon tourism by calculating the Malmquist–Luenberger productivity index. The results showed that: (1) the tourism industry in the Yellow River Basin has the characteristics of the initial environmental Kuznets curve. (2) There was a strong interaction between tourism carbon dioxide emissions and tourism economy, which was manifested as mutual promotion. (3) The total factor productivity of low-carbon tourism was increasing. Based on the above results, it could be concluded that the development level of low-carbon tourism in the Yellow River Basin has been continuously improved from 2000 to 2019, but it is still in the early development stage with the continuous growth of carbon dioxide emissions.
Sodium butyrate exerts a neuroprotective effect in rats with acute carbon monoxide poisoning by activating autophagy through the mTOR signaling pathway
Authors: Wen Jing , Xu Qiong , Li Jing , Shen Xuanyang , Zhou Xiaolong , Huang Jing , Liu Shiping
Published: February 2024

Acute carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is a prevalent type of poisoning that causes significant harm globally. Delayed encephalopathy after acute carbon monoxide poisoning (DEACMP) is a severe complication that occurs after acute CO poisoning; however, the exact underlying pathological cause of DEACMP remains unclear. Accumulating evidence indicates that abnormal inflammation and immune-mediated brain damage, cellular apoptosis and autophagy, and direct neuronal toxicity are involved in the development of delayed neurologic sequelae. Sodium butyrate, a histone deacetylase inhibitor, has gained increasing attention for its numerous beneficial effects on various diseases, such as obesity, diabetes, inflammatory diseases, and cerebral damage. In this study, an acute carbon monoxide poisoning (ACOP) model is established in rats to investigate the mechanism of CO poisoning and the therapeutic potential of sodium butyrate. The results suggested that the ACOP rats had impaired spatial memory, and cell apoptosis was observed in the hippocampi with activated autophagy. Sodium butyrate treatment further increased the activation of autophagy in the hippocampi of CO-exposed rats, inhibited apoptosis, and consolidated spatial memory. These findings indicated that sodium butyrate may improve memory and cognitive function in ACMP rats by promoting autophagy and inhibiting apoptosis.
Association between remnant cholesterol and insulin resistance levels in patients with metabolic-associated fatty liver disease
Authors: Wang Shuang , Zhang Qiang , Qin Bo
Published: February 2024

The relationship between remnant cholesterol (RC) and homeostasis model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) in the context of metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) remains an area of ambiguity. This investigation was designed to elucidate the potential association between RC and HOMA-IR in a cohort of American adults diagnosed with MAFLD. Data from 5533 participants were procured from the 2017–2018 US National Health and Nutrition Examination (NHANES) databases. A weighted linear regression model was employed to analyze the association between RC and HOMA-IR in the context of MAFLD. Preliminary analysis revealed that 44.67% of the participants were diagnosed with MAFLD, with a higher prevalence observed in individuals aged 50–64 years (31.84%, p < 0.0001) and in males compared to females (53.48% vs. 46.52%, p < 0.0001). A positive correlation was identified between RC and HOMA-IR in MAFLD patients. The threshold effect analysis model indicated a breakpoint at RC = 30 mg/dl, with a more pronounced positive correlation when RC < 30 mg/dl (β = 0.17, p < 0.001). Receiver operating characteristic analysis further demonstrated that among all lipid parameters, RC exhibited the largest area under the curve. The study findings suggest a positive correlation between RC and HOMA-IR in MAFLD patients, indicating that elevated RC may serve as an independent risk factor for MAFLD.
Powdered activated carbon (PAC)-assisted peroxymonosulfate activation for efficient urea elimination in ultrapure water production from reclaimed water
Authors: Kim Chaelin , Yoo Heeji , Lee Gyubin , Hong Hye-Jin
Published: February 2024

Urea is a problematic pollutant in reclaimed water for ultrapure water (UPW) production. The sulfate radical-based advanced oxidation process (SR-AOP) has been recognized as an effective method for urea degradation. However, conventional metal-based catalysts for peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation are unsuitable for UPW production due to issues related to metal ion leaching. In this study, the use of powdered activated carbon (PAC) was investigated for the removal of urea from reclaimed water. The PAC exhibited a high degree of defects (ID/IG = 1.709) and various surface oxygen functional groups (C–OH, C=O, and C–O), which greatly enhanced its catalytic capability. The PAC significantly facilitated PMS activation in the PMS + PAC system, leading to the complete urea decomposition. The PMS + PAC system demonstrated excellent urea removal efficiency within a wide pH range, except for pH < 3. Among the various anions present, the CO32− and PO43− inhibited urea degradation, while the coexistence of Cl− promoted urea removal. Furthermore, the feasibility test was evaluated using actual reclaimed water. The quenching test revealed that SO4−·, ·OH, and O2−· played crucial roles in the degradation of urea in the PAC-assisted SR-AOP. The oxygen functional groups (C–OH and O–C=O) and defect sites of PAC clearly contributed to PMS activation.
Intensified gradient La Niña and extra-tropical thermal patterns drive the 2022 East and South Asian “Seesaw” extremes
Authors: Zhang Peng , Wang Bin , Wu Zhiwei , Jin Rui , Cao Can
Published: February 2024

In July and August 2022, a notable “seesaw” extreme pattern emerged, characterized by the “Yangtze River Valley (YRV) drought” juxtaposed with the “Indus Basin (IB) flood”, leading to enormous economic and human losses. We observed that the “seesaw” extreme pattern concurs with the second-strongest sea surface temperature (SST) gradient between the equatorial central and western Pacific caused by the triple-dip La Niña and western Pacific warming. The convergent statistical and numerical evidence suggested that the enhanced SST gradients tend to amplify the western Pacific convection and the descending Rossby responses to the La Niña cooling, promoting the “seesaw” extreme pattern through the westward expansion of the western Pacific subtropical high (WPSH). Further investigation demonstrated that the magnitude of the YRV surface temperature and IB rainfall exhibited a reversed change from July to August. The persistent cooling of the southern Indian Ocean induced by the triple-dip La Niña increases the cross-equatorial moisture transport, which played a significant role in the record-breaking IB rainfall during July. By contrast, the historic YRV surface temperature occurred in August with a decrease in IB rainfall. The Barents-Kara Sea warming extended the downstream impact of the North Atlantic Oscillation via local air-sea interaction that enhanced the WPSH and the YRV extreme surface temperature by emanating an equatorward teleconnection wave train. The overlay of the tropical thermal conditions and extra-tropical forcings largely aggravated the severity of the “YRV drought and IB flood”.
Foam with direction: unraveling the anisotropic radiation shielding properties of 2D boron nitride nanoplatelet foams
Authors: Orikasa Kazue , Park Cheol , Chu Sang-Hyon , Lum Calista , Thomas Tony , Dolmetsch Tyler , Benedetti Luiza , Agarwal Arvind
Published: February 2024

Neutron radiation exposure is one of the main challenges faced during space missions. There is a critical need for advanced lightweight radiation shielding materials. Two-dimensional (2D) boron nitride nanoplatelets (BNNP) are excellent candidates for polymer matrix nanofillers due to their superior neutron shielding and thermal and mechanical properties. Furthermore, the 2D material anisotropic behavior unlocks the potential for composite property tailoring. This study fabricated ultra-lightweight lamellar BNNP foams (density 0.05 g cm–3 and 97.5% porous) via freeze-drying processing. The neutron shielding effectiveness or mass absorption coefficient of the BNNP foams with walls perpendicular to the direction of the radiation source was 14.47 cm2 g–1, while that of the foam with parallel configuration was only 8.51 cm2 g–1. The orientation-dependent neutron radiation shielding properties were modeled using the Beer-Lambert law for porous composite materials. The BNNP foam in this study has the potential to benefit advanced tailorable radiation shielding technologies for future aerospace missions.
Development of a dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction method for the determination of plastic additives in seawater
Authors: González-Castro María José , Uribe-Ares Jaime , Muniategui-Lorenzo Soledad , Beceiro-González Elisa
Published: February 2024

A method using DLLME prior to HPLC-DAD was developed to determine seven additives from the plastics industry (butylated hydroxytoluene, diisodecyl phthalate, irgafos 168, lawsone, quercetin, triclosan and vitamin E) in seawater samples.
Performance of Vehicle Add-on Mobile Monitoring System PM2.5 measurements during wildland fire episodes
Authors: Bittner Ashley S. , Holder Amara L. , Grieshop Andrew P. , Hagler Gayle S. W. , Mitchell William
Published: February 2024

A universally attachable, lightweight PM2.5 mobile monitor provides reliable and actionable supplemental information on air quality conditions in communities impacted by wildland fire smoke via a nationwide loan program.
Effects of germination time on the structure, functionality, flavour attributes, and in vitro digestibility of green Altamura lentils (Lens culinaris Medik.) flour
Authors: Romano Annalisa , De Luca Lucia , Romano Raffaele
Published: February 2024

The potential use of germinated green Altamura lentils as a food ingredient is closely related to the resulting properties.
Unravelling the polarity preference and effects of the electrode layer on wurtzite aluminum nitride for piezoelectric applications
Authors: Wong Zicong Marvin , Wu Gang , Hariharaputran Ramanarayan
Published: February 2024

Through careful consideration of the electronegativity of the electrodes, we can design stable electrodes tailored for aluminum nitride (AlN) slabs of desired polarity.
A new neodymium complex on renewable magnetic biochar nanoparticles as an environmentally friendly, recyclable and efficient nanocatalyst in the homoselective synthesis of tetrazoles
Authors: Tahmasbi Bahman , Moradi Parisa , Darabi Mitra
Published: February 2024

A new heterogeneous catalyst of neodymium Schiff-base complex was immobilized on biochar magnetic nanoparticles, and then, it was used as a practical and reusable nanocatalyst for the homoselective synthesis of tetrazoles.
Enhanced sunlight-driven catalysis for hydrogen generation and dye remediation using synergistic p-Co3O4/n-TiO2 nanocomposites
Authors: Gadge Sandhya S. , Chauhan Ratna , Late Dattatray J. , Chaudhary Indra Jeet , Ashokkumar Muthupandian , Gosavi Suresh
Published: February 2024

p-Co3O4/n-TiO2 nanocomposites exhibit improved photocatalysis under sunlight. Enhanced properties include narrowed band gap, surface plasmon resonance, and efficient electron–hole separation, boosting hydrogen production and dye degradation rates.
Metal–BODIPY complexes: versatile photosensitizers for oxidizing amyloid-β peptides and modulating their aggregation profiles
Authors: Kim Mingeun , Gupta Gajendra , Lee Junseong , Na Chanju , Kwak Jimin , Lin Yuxi , Lee Young-Ho , Lim Mi Hee , Lee Chang Yeon
Published: February 2024

Metal–BODIPY complexes, rationally designed as photosensitizers, can effectively oxidize amyloidogenic peptides upon photoactivation at a relatively longer wavelength, resulting in altering their aggregation profiles.
A dearomatization–rearomatization strategy for construction of 4H-quinolizin-4-ones via C–H bond functionalization of pyridines
Authors: Qiu Dong , Su Yijin
Published: February 2024

Herein, the synthesis of 4H-quinolizin-4-ones from N-(2-methoxy-2-oxoethyl) pyridinium salts and alkenes through dearomative cycloaddition and rearomative ring expansion has been developed.
Synthesis of CuSe/PVP/GO and CuSe/MWCNTs for their applications as nonenzymatic electrochemical glucose biosensors
Authors: Yaseen Junaid , Saira Farhat , Imran Muhammad , Fatima Mehwish , Ahmed Hafiz Ejaz , Manzoor Muhammad Zeewaqar , Rasheed Momna , Nisa Iqbal , Mehmood Khalid , Batool Zahida
Published: February 2024

Copper selenide (CuSe) is an inorganic binary compound which exhibits metallic behavior with zero band gap.
Bioorthogonal chemistry of polyoxometalates – challenges and prospects
Authors: Petrovskii Stanislav K. , Grachova Elena V. , Monakhov Kirill Yu.
Published: February 2024

Advances in bioorthogonal polyoxometalate (POM) chemistry will open exciting opportunities for the controlled use of stimuli-responsive POM-based organic–inorganic nanoassemblies in biomedical applications as well as catalysis and electronics.
On-chip organic optoelectronic system for fluorescence detection
Authors: Benvenuti Emilia , Lanfranchi Andrea , Moschetto Salvatore , Natali Marco , Angelini Marco , Lova Paola , Prescimone Federico , Ragona Vincenzo , Comoretto Davide , Prosa Mario , Bolognesi Margherita , Toffanin Stefano
Published: February 2024

A single and miniaturized fluorescence sensor is obtained by the vertical integration of organic optoelectronic devices and organic photonic components.
Multifaceted insight into the cation-disordered self-activated luminescence of Zn3V2O8 compositions for lighting and pigment applications
Authors: Shisina S. , Thejus P. K. , Nishanth K. G. , Das Subrata
Published: February 2024

Remarkable structural diversity-dependent photoluminescence and UV-vis absorption have been induced in Zn3V2O8 through several cationic substitutions (In3+, Y3+, Bi3+, and K+), which ensured potential lighting and pigment applications.
Effect of Sn valence state in the in situ growth of FeOOH precursor on the performance of the α-Fe2O3 photoanode
Authors: Xia Weiwei , Chai Zichun , Zhang Rui , He Junhui , Zeng Xianghua
Published: February 2024

Sn-doped Fe2O3 photoanodes are fabricated by employing a tin salt precursor with different Sn valence states, and Sn4+ ions are incorporated in the Fe2O3 photoanode.
Life cycle assessment of low-dimensional materials for perovskite photovoltaic cells
Authors: Ravilla Achyuth , Perini Carlo A. R. , Correa-Baena Juan-Pablo , Ho-Baillie Anita W. Y. , Celik Ilke
Published: February 2024

Perovskite solar cells integrated with lower dimensional materials can outperform the environmental performance of conventional solar photovoltaic technologies such as crystalline silicon, CIGS, and CdTe with shorter lifetimes.
Augmentation of inductive effects through short range intramolecular hydrogen bonds for the improvement of cooperativity of trimeric rosettes
Authors: Petelski Andre Nicolai , Bundrea Tamara , Peruchena Nélida María
Published: February 2024

Three key design elements improve the binding strength of trimeric rosettes: the direction of hydrogen bonds, the addition of groups with inductive effects, and the presence of ambifunctional intramolecular hydrogen bonds between the substituents.
Corrosion inhibitor screening for AA6014 aluminum alloy under different ambient conditions using a novel multielectrode methodology
Authors: Samarawickrama Chathumini , Pöhlker Sebastian , White Paul , Cole Ivan , Keil Patrick
Published: February 2024

A novel electrochemical cell to assess the effectiveness of organic corrosion inhibitors in preventing droplet corrosion for alloy AA6014. The study focuses on analysing the impact of pH and inhibitor chemical structure on their performance.
Electrochemical remote C(sp3)–H thiocyanation
Authors: Pang Xinyu , He Hui , Meng Xiangrui , Zhang Linbao , Ni Shaofei , Li Ming , Guo Weisi
Published: February 2024

An electrochemical thiocyanation of distal C(sp3)–H bonds based on amidyl radical-mediated 1,5-HAT has been developed. The transformation is highly site-selective and compatible with primary, secondary, and tertiary sulfonamides, and bioactive derivatives.
Frustrated Lewis pair chemistry of alkynes
Authors: Guo Jing , Yan Maying , Stephan Douglas W.
Published: February 2024

This review is focused on the chemistry of frustrated Lewis pairs (FLPs) with alkynes and surveys the range of stoichiometric and catalytic reactions enabled by this concept.
Simultaneously enhancing organic phosphorescence quantum yields and lifetimes for triphenylphosphine salt doped polymer films
Authors: Li Jiangang , Wei Kuanjian , Wu Jilong , Wang Yuchang , Liu Shujuan , Ma Yun , Zhao Qiang
Published: February 2024

The population of triplet excitons of triphenylphosphine salts was increased through intermediate through-space charge transfer and triplet–triplet energy transfer, thereby significantly enhancing their RTP quantum efficiency and lifetime.
Knowledge of doubly strange hypernuclei and experimental prospect
Authors: Nakazawa Kazuma
Published: February 2024

Experiments for doubly strange hypernuclei with nuclear emulsion have been performed at KEK and J-PARC for the past 30 years. From detected 47 events, the characteristics were understood for Λ-Λ interaction to be weakly attractive, linear mass number dependence for two Λs binding energy, presence of Ξ hypernucleus, and it can be seen for something like the level structure of 15ΞC. Developing scanning method, so-called overall-scanning method, probably presents more rich information on not only doubly strange hypernuclei but also single-Λ hypernuclei.
Rapid ascent trajectory optimization of rocket-based combined cycle hypersonic vehicle
Authors: YAN Xunliang , WANG Shumei , WANG Peichen , LIU Haili
Published: February 2024

The ascent trajectory design of a rocket-based combined cycle (RBCC) hypersonic vehicle has many typical characteristics, including the complex working mode of the RBCC power system, strong coupling between thrust and flight state, strong nonlinear model and many complex constraints etc. This paper proposes a rapid trajectory optimization method based on sequential convex optimization to optimize the complex ascent trajectory with the RBCC power system. Firstly, a mathematical model for optimizing the ascent trajectory of the RBCC hypersonic vehicle is established to describe the angle of attack control system with and without the second-order lag. Then, the optimization model is made convex and discretized based on the convex optimization theory, and a trajectory optimization strategy is improved. Finally, taking the maximum terminal mechanical energy as optimization objective, the ascent trajectory optimization is simulated in cases with and without the second-order lag in the angle of attack control system. The simulation results show that the proposed mathematical model and the ascent trajectory optimization method are rapid and reliable and that the optimization results meet the characteristics of the RBCC power system and provide reference for the application of a RBCC power system and the design of an angle of attack control system.
Forward polishing process planning of aero-engine blisk blade
Authors: CHEN Zhen , ZHAO Pan , SHI Yaoyao , LI Feng , DING Ying , LU Danni
Published: February 2024

The surface roughness can be reduced by increasing the forward-tilt angle of polishing process. It is of great significance to explore the influence law of the forward-tilt angle on the quality of the polished surface to improve the polishing efficiency of the blisk blade. In this paper, the surface roughness of the polished TC4 blisk blades polished by the belt flapwheel with a grain size of P400-P1200 under different polishing times and different forward-tilt angles was obtained through the forward-tilting polishing experiment. The experimental results show that the roughness of the polished surface decreases with the increase of the forward-tilt angle. Then the mechanism of the influence of the change of the forward-tilt angle on the quality of the polished surface was analyzed from multiple aspects. By quantifying the polishing efficiency, the variation law of the polishing efficiency of the belt flapwheel with various grain sizes with the forward-tilt angle was studied, and the optimal forward-tilt angle was obtained. On this basis, the polishing process planning with the optimal polishing efficiency was carried out, and verified by polishing experiments. The experimental results show that the optimized polishing process planning can obtain qualified surface roughness in fewer processes, which verifies the reliability of the polishing process planning results. This study provides a theoretical basis and practical guidance for the optimization of the belt flapwheel polishing process for TC4 blisk blades.
Study on back-pressure propagation and suppression of single pulse detonation
Authors: LI Qing'an , WANG Ke , FAN Wei , YANG Hai , HAN Junde , HUANG Ke , KANG Jian , GAO Yaqing , JIANG Yumin
Published: February 2024

The backflow and back-pressure propagation induced in a pulse detonation combustor (PDC) are the main factor in causing the thrust losses of a pulse detonation engine. In order to suppression the backflow propagation of a PDC, the aero-dynamic suppression strategy was implemented in this work. A total of ten isolators composed of different geometries were designed. A single-pulse detonation experiment was conducted by using the stoichiometric ethylene/enriched-oxygen mixture. It is shown that when the back-pressure has propagated about 0.86 the length of PDC, the propagation speeds and the pecks of the back-pressure in the isolator, which composed of the Venturi tube (V) and a long tube with 1.5 times diameter of the PDC, can be reduced by 10% and 20%, respectively, comparing with the base isolator. Comparing with the isolators that without the Tesla valve (T), the propagation speed of the back-pressure in the cases with the Tesla valve can be additionally reduced above 27.3%. Comparing with the isolators that without the slit (S), the peaks of the back-pressure in the cases with the slit can be decreased about 25%. The average decay rate of the back-pressure peaks can be highly increased if the cone (C) is introduced. It is found that the CVST-type isolator is the optimal. Comparing with the base isolator, the backpressure propagated in the CVST-type isolator can decrease about 50% and 40.5% of propagation speed and pressure peaks, respectively, and can increase the average decay rate of the back-pressure peaks by a factor of two.
3D point cloud object detection algorithm based on Transformer
Authors: LIU Mingyang , YANG Qiming , HU Guanhua , GUO Yan , ZHANG Jiandong
Published: February 2024

In response to the difficulty in deploying anchor box based methods in 3D object detection due to the increase in spatial dimensions, this paper studies a point cloud object detection algorithm based on set prediction. This article proposes a Transformer based 3D point cloud object detection algorithm, and combines the characteristics of point clouds in autonomous driving scenarios to propose an improved spatial modulation attention and heat map initialization strategy for training acceleration and query initialization, achieving good detection performance in shallow networks. This article compares it with other algorithms on the KITTI dataset, and the results show that our algorithm has reached an advanced level in performance. We also conducted ablation experiments on the main components of the algorithm to verify the contribution of each module to the detection effect.
Research on decision method based on probability hesitation fuzzy comprehensive distance measure
Authors: LIU Ying , GUAN Xin , WU Bin
Published: February 2024

Aiming at the defects of the existing probabilistic hesitation fuzzy distance measures, which require the number of membership degree to be consistent and the order to be rearranged, a probabilistic hesitation fuzzy multi-attribute decision making method based on the comprehensive characteristic distance measure is proposed. First, a new law of probability hesitant fuzzy number comparison is defined. Then four characteristics of aggregation, discreteness, fuzziness and consistency are defined, and a new comprehensive distance measure is defined based on definitions above. Finally, on the basis of traditional TODIM method and prospect theory, the validity and rationality of the distance measure and new probability hesitant fuzzy recognition method in this paper are verified by examples and comparative analysis.
Design of a wide bandwidth achromatic metalens based on phase change material GST with aperture sharing
Authors: LYU Shuyuan , MENG Fei , LUO Wenfeng , BAI Yuchi , WANG Rong
Published: February 2024

This paper proposes the use of aperture sharing synergistic operation in the structure of the metalens, together with the rational selection of the scattering unit size according to the linear relationship between the output phase and frequency of the scattering unit, and the selection of the slope of the phase variation with frequency, combined with the modulation of the phase change material Ge2Sb2Te5 crystallization rate m value, in the set wavelength band, for different wavelengths of incident light through the metasurface can produce a uniform phase distribution. The method is used to achieve a polarization-insensitive achromatic metalens in the 9.5-13 μm continuous wavelength band by adjusting the m value of the phase transition material Ge2Sb2Te5 crystallization rate and producing a phase distribution with a uniform focal length for different wavelengths of incident light passing through the metasurface. The simulation results show that the focal length of the achromatic metasurface varies by 3.57 μm in the working band, with an error of about 4.3% from the set focal length, and the full width of the half-peak of the focal point at all wavelengths of incidence reaches the diffraction limit, and the focusing efficiency exceeds 60%. The achromatic metalens proposed in this paper provides a new idea for the design of achromatic metasurfaces and promotes the research of phase change materials in broadband achromatic metasurfaces.
Der Große Wiesenknopf Sanguisorba officinalis L.
Authors: Melzig Matthias F.
Published: February 2024

Sanguisorba officinalis L. ist eine traditionell genutzte Arzneipflanze
aus der Familie der Rosaceae. Das Kraut und die Wurzeln enthalten ein breites
Spektrum phenolischer und terpenoider Inhaltsstoffe mit vor allem
entzündungshemmenden und antiinfektiven Wirkungen. Die Wurzeldroge
spielt in der Traditionellen Chinesischen Medizin zur Immunmodulation,
Wundbehandlung und Therapie von Infektionen eine wichtige Rolle, wobei sich
diese Indikationen mit denen der Traditionellen Europäischen Medizin
teilweise überschneiden. Trotz der langen therapeutischen Verwendung ist
die klinische Studienlage gegenwärtig unbefriedigend.
Fichtenbalsam (Picea abies) zur Wundheilung: Eine
Bestandsaufnahme
Authors: Göls-Manninger Thomas , Glasl-Tazreiter Sabine
Published: February 2024

Die Exsudate der Koniferen Picea abies, Larix decidua und Pinus
nigra sind bekannte traditionelle pflanzliche Arzneimittel, die zur
Heilung von Wunden verwendet werden. Klinische Studien mit Fichtenbalsam
bestätigten in der Vergangenheit dessen empirische Verwendung. Die
aktiven Bestandteile, ihre Wirkungsweise und die genaue Zusammensetzung dieses
Naturprodukts waren bis dato jedoch unbekannt. Der Balsam der Fichte wurde einer
fraktionierten Extraktion und weiteren Reinigungsschritten unterzogen. Die
Substanzen wurden isoliert, identifiziert und auf ihre Fähigkeit
getestet, die Reepithelisierung in einem in vitro
HaCaT-Keratinozyten-basierten Scratch-Assay zu verbessern. Lignane und
Diterpenharzsäuren, Hauptbestandteile des Fichtenbalsams, konnten die
Migration bzw. Proliferation der Zellen steigern. Parallel dazu kamen Balsame,
Harze und Fraktionen von drei Koniferen im Scratch-Assay zur Testung. Balsame
und Harze von Picea abies und Pinus nigra zeigten in vitro
eine Konzentrationsabhängigkeit, für Larix decidua wurde
eine signifikante Aktivität gemessen. Diterpenharzsäuren sind
die Hauptbestandteile von Fichtenbalsam und eignen sich als Markerverbindungen
für die Qualitätskontrolle. Erstmals wurde eine auf
überkritischer Flüssigkeit basierende analytische Methode
entwickelt für die Trennung und Quantifizierung von
Diterpenharzsäuren.

Die vorgestellten Ergebnisse untermauern die traditionelle Anwendung von
Nadelbaumexsudaten, insbesondere von Fichtenbalsam, und präsentieren
eine analytische Methode basierend auf einer nachhaltigen Technologie
für die Qualitätskontrolle.