bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Physically Motivated Heat Source Model for Laser Beam Welding
Authors: Hartwig Philipp , Bakir Nasim , Scheunemann Lisa , Gumenyuk Andrey , Schröder Jörg , Rethmeier Michael
Published: April 2024

In this contribution, we present a physically motivated heat source model for the numerical modeling of laser beam welding processes. Since the calibration of existing heat source models, such as the conic or Goldak model, is difficult, the representation of the heat source using so-called Lamé curves has been established, relying on prior Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations. Lamé curves, which describe the melting isotherm, are used in a subsequent finite-element (FE) simulation to define a moving Dirichlet boundary condition, which prescribes a constant temperature in the melt pool. As an alternative to this approach, we developed a physically motivated heat source model, which prescribes the heat input as a body load directly. The new model also relies on prior CFD simulations to identify the melting isotherm. We demonstrate numerical results of the new heat source model on boundary-value problems from the field of laser beam welding and compare it with the prior CFD simulation and the results of the Lamé curve model and experimental data.
Effect of Bile on Hemodynamics and Blood Micro-Rheological Parameters in Experimental Models of Bilhemia
Authors: Matrai Adam Attila , Varga Adam , Fazekas Laszlo Adam , Bedocs-Barath Barbara , Nellamkuzhi Noel Johny , Nghi Tran Bao , Nemeth Norbert , Deak Adam
Published: April 2024

As a rare complication of liver injury and certain interventions, bile can enter the bloodstream depending on the pressure gradient, resulting in bilhemia. Its micro-rheological and hemodynamic effects are still unclear. We aimed to study these parameters in experimental bilhemia models. Under general anesthesia, via laparotomy, bile was obtained by gallbladder puncture from pigs and by choledochal duct cannulation from rats. In vitro, 1 µL and 5 µL of bile were mixed with 500 µL of anticoagulated autologous blood. The systemic effect was also assessed (i.v. bile, 200 µL/bwkg). Hemodynamic and hematological parameters were monitored, and red blood cell (RBC) deformability and aggregation were determined. RBC deformability significantly decreased with the increasing bile concentration in vitro (1 µL: p = 0.033; 5 µL: p < 0.001) in both species. The RBC aggregation index values were concomitantly worsened (1 µL: p < 0.001; 5 µL: p < 0.001). The mean arterial pressure and heart rate decreased by 15.2 ± 6.9% and 4.6 ± 2.1% in rats (in 10.6 ± 2.6 s) and by 32.1 ± 14% and 25.2 ± 11.63% in pigs (in 48.3 ± 18.9 s). Restoration of the values was observed in 45 ± 9.5 s (rats) and 130 ± 20 s (pigs). Bilhemia directly affected the hemodynamic parameters and caused micro-rheological deterioration. The magnitude and dynamics of the changes were different for the two species.
Characterization and Assessment of Native Lactic Acid Bacteria from Broiler Intestines for Potential Probiotic Properties
Authors: Li Xiaoxia , Li Wang , Zhao Longmei , Li Yuanxiao , He Wanling , Ding Ke , Cao Pinghua
Published: April 2024

Probiotics are the most promising alternative to antibiotics for improving animal production and controlling pathogenic infections, while strains derived from natural hosts are considered highly desirable due to their good adaptation to the gastrointestinal tract. The aim of this study was to screen Lactobacillus with broad-spectrum antibacterial activity from broilers fed an antibiotic-free diet and evaluate their potential as poultry probiotics. A total of 44 lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains were isolated from the intestines of healthy broilers, among which 3 strains exhibited outstanding antimicrobial activity and were subsequently identified through 16S rRNA sequencing as Enterococcus faecium L8, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum L10, and Limosilactobacillus reuteri H11. These three isolates demonstrated potent bacteriostatic activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria monocytogenes, Escherichia coli, and Salmonella cholerae, with inhibition zones ranging from 15.67 ± 1.53 to 21.33 ± 0.58 mm. The selected LAB strains exhibited high tolerance to acid and bile salts, with L. reuteri H11 displaying the highest survival rate (ranging from 34.68% to 110.28%) after exposure to 0.3% (w/v) bile salts for 6 h or a low pH environment (pH 2, 2.5, and 3) for 3 h. Notably, L. reuteri H11 outperformed other strains in terms of hydrophobicity (84.31%), auto-aggregation (53.12%), and co−aggregation with E. coli ATCC 25922 (36.81%) and S. aureus ATCC 6538 (40.20%). In addition, the three LAB isolates were either fully or moderately susceptible to the tested antibiotics, except for strain L8, which resisted gentamycin and vancomycin. Consequently, these three LAB strains, especially L. reuteri H11, isolated from the intestines of broiler chickens, represent promising probiotic candidates that can be employed as feed additives to enhance production performance and control poultry pathogens.
Prevalence and Preferred Niche of Small Eukaryotes with Mixotrophic Potentials in the Global Ocean
Authors: Dong Kaiyi , Wang Ying , Zhang Wenjing , Li Qian
Published: April 2024

Unicellular eukaryotes that are capable of phago-mixotrophy in the ocean compete for inorganic nutrients and light with autotrophs, and for bacterial prey with heterotrophs. In this study, we ask what the overall prevalence of eukaryotic mixotrophs in the vast open ocean is, and how the availability of inorganic nutrients, light, and prey affects their relative success. We utilized the Tara Oceans eukaryotic 18S rRNA gene and environmental context variables dataset to conduct a large-scale field analysis. We also performed isolate-based culture experiments to verify growth and nutritional resource relationships for representative mixotrophic taxa. The field analysis suggested that the overall prevalence of mixotrophs were negatively correlated with nutrient concentrations and positively associated with light availability. Concentrations of heterotrophic bacteria as a single variable also presented a positive correlation with mixotrophic prevalence, but to a lesser extent. On the other hand, the culture experiments demonstrated a taxa-specific relationship between mixotrophic growth and nutrition resources, i.e., the growth of one group was significantly dependent on light availability, while the other group was less affected by light when they received sufficient prey. Both groups were capable of growing efficiently with low inorganic nutrients when receiving sufficient prey and light. Therefore, our field analysis and culture experiments both suggest that phago-mixotrophy for ocean eukaryotes is seemingly an efficient strategy to compensate for nutrient deficiency but unnecessary to compensate for light scarcity. This study collectively revealed a close relationship between abiotic and biotic nutritional resources and the prevalence of trophic strategies, shedding light on the importance of light and nutrients for determining the competitive success of mixotrophs versus autotrophic and heterotrophic eukaryotes in the ocean.
Practical Methodology for Evaluating Mining Front Stability Based on the Diametrical Core Deformation Technique
Authors: Li Yizhuo , Mitri Hani S.
Published: April 2024

The state of stress in a mining front constantly changes with mining activities. In a recent study, the authors developed and verified with laboratory measurements an analytical model for the calculation of mining-induced stresses based on measuring the deformations of a diamond drill rock core extracted perpendicular to the mining front or face. The method is called diametrical core deformation technique (DCDT). In this study, the DCDT is used in combination with 3D numerical modelling to develop a practical methodology for the assessment of mining face stability. To demonstrate the methodology, a diamond drill rock core was retrieved from an access drift face 530 m below the surface of an underground mine in northern Quebec. The state of stress in the mining front is estimated from the DCDT and used to adjust the orientation and principal stress magnitudes in the local area around the access drift in a 3D linear-elastic numerical model using an iterative approach. As the rock core is partially fractured due to previous face advance blasting, the numerical model is further adjusted to model the observed damage zone. The 3D model after adjustments is used to examine the mining front stability with the Hoek–Brown failure criterion. It is postulated that the proposed methodology is suitable for the stability assessment of any mining front with or without an observed damage zone.
The Average Symmetry Index of Minerals Co-Varies with Their Hydrogen Content, Rarity, and Paragenetic Mode
Authors: Bermanec Marko , Vidović Noa , Ma Xiaogang , Hazen Robert M.
Published: April 2024

Variations in the Dolivo-Dobrovol’sky symmetry index for minerals through time reveal several factors that influence the emergence of crystalline symmetry in natural processes. Of special interest in this regard are the numerous paragenetic modes—different processes of mineral genesis that reflect changes in physical, chemical, and ultimately biological environments that foster the emergence of new mineral species. Here, we consider the roles of hydrogen content, rarity, formation temperature and pressure, and age on the average symmetry of minerals from 57 different modes of formation (i.e., paragenetic modes). We find four significant trends in the average mineral symmetry index for all minerals in each paragenetic mode: specifically, this average index is (1) lower for minerals with greater hydrogen content; (2) greater for minerals formed at higher pressure; (3) lower for minerals of greater rarity; and (4) greater for older paragenetic modes. These findings elucidate some of the intricate relationships among paragenetic modes, average mineral attributes, and the Dolivo-Dobrovol’sky symmetry index, providing insights into the geological processes governing mineral formation.
Triterpenoids from the Leaves of Diospyros digyna and Their PTP1B Inhibitory Activity
Authors: Huang Lan , Wang Ziqi , Wang Fangxin , Wang Song , Wang Dezhi , Gao Meihua , Li Hua , Song Min , Zhang Xiaoqi
Published: April 2024

Six new 2α-hydroxy ursane triterpenoids, 3α-cis-p-coumaroyloxy-2α,19α-dihydroxy-12-ursen-28-oic acid (1), 3α-trans-p-coumaroyloxy-2α,19α-dihydroxy-12-ursen-28-oic acid (2), 3α-trans-p-coumaroyloxy-2α-hydroxy-12-ursen-28-oic acid (3), 3β-trans-p-coumaroyloxy-2α-hydroxy-12,20(30)-ursadien-28-oic acid (4), 3β-trans-feruloyloxy-2α-hydroxy-12,20(30)-ursadien-28-oic acid (5), and 3α-trans-feruloyloxy-2α-hydroxy-12,20(30)-ursadien-28-oic acid (6), along with eleven known triterpenoids (7–17), were isolated from the leaves of Diospyros digyna. Their chemical structures were elucidated by comprehensive analysis of UV, IR, HRESIMS, and NMR spectra. All the isolated compounds were evaluated for their PTP1B inhibitory activity. 3β-O-trans-feruloyl-2α-hydroxy-urs-12-en-28-oic acid (13) showed the best inhibition activity with an IC50 value of 10.32 ± 1.21 μM. The molecular docking study found that the binding affinity of compound 13 for PTP1B was comparable to that of oleanolic acid (positive control).
The Identification and Quantification of 21 Antibacterial Substances by LC-MS/MS in Natural and Organic Liquid Fertilizer Samples
Authors: Patyra Ewelina , Osiński Zbigniew , Kwiatek Krzysztof
Published: April 2024

Antibiotics in animal production are widely used around the world for therapeutic and preventive purposes, and in some countries, they still serve as antibiotic growth stimulants. Regardless of the purpose of using antibiotics in livestock, they may be present in animal tissues and organs as well as in body fluids and excretions (feces and urine). Farm animal excrement in unprocessed form (natural fertilizers) or processed form (organic fertilizers) is applied to agricultural fields because it improves soil fertility. Antibiotics present in fertilizers may therefore contaminate the soil, surface, groundwater, and plants, which may pose a threat to the environment, animals, and humans. Therefore, it is important to develop analytical methods that will allow for the control of the presence of antibacterial substances in natural and organic fertilizers. Therefore, in this study, an LC-MS/MS method was developed and validated for the determination of 21 antibacterial substances in natural and organic liquid fertilizers. The developed method was used to analyze 62 samples of natural and organic liquid fertilizers, showing that over 24% of the tested samples were contaminated with antibiotics, mainly from the group of tetracyclines and fluoroquinolones. Studies of post-fermentation sludge from biogas plants have shown that the processes of anaerobic methane fermentation, pH, and temperature changes taking place in bioreactors do not lead to the complete degradation of antibiotics present in the material used for biogas production. For this reason, monitoring studies of natural and organic fertilizers should be undertaken to limit the introduction of antibiotics into the natural environment.
Response Surface Optimization for Water-Assisted Extraction of Two Saponins from Paris polyphylla var. yunnanensis Leaves
Authors: Jin Yutian , Qiao Qing , Dong Linmei , Cao Mokun , Li Ping , Liu Aizhong , Sun Rui
Published: April 2024

The process of extracting polyphyllin II and polyphyllin VII by water-assisted extraction was established and optimized in this study. Response surface methodology was used to establish a prediction model to optimize the extraction conditions. Based on the one-way test, the Box–Behnken design with three factors and three levels was used for the experimental program, and the composition analysis was carried out by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The optimal extraction conditions for polyphyllin II and polyphyllin VII were as follows: extraction time of 57 and 21 min, extraction temperature of 36 and 32 °C, solid-to-liquid ratio of 1:10 and 1:5 g/mL, respectively, and the yields of polyphyllin II and polyphyllin VII were 1.895 and 5.010%, which was similar to the predicted value of 1.835 and 4.979%. The results of the ANOVA showed that the model fit was good, and the Box–Behnken response surface method could optimize the water-assisted extraction of saponins from the leaves of Paris polyphylla var. yunnanensis. This study provides a theoretical basis for the application of polyphyllin II and polyphyllin VII in pharmaceutical production.
Recent Advances in the Total Synthesis of Spirotryprostatin Alkaloids
Authors: Hu Jing , Niu Zhen-Xi , Wang Jun-Feng
Published: April 2024

Spirotryprostatin alkaloids, a class of alkaloids with a unique spirocyclic indoledionepiperazine structure, were first extracted from the fermentation broth of Aspergillus fumigatus and have garnered significant attention in the fields of biology and pharmacology. The investigation into the pharmacological potential of this class of alkaloids has unveiled promising applications in drug discovery and development. Notably, certain spirotryprostatin alkaloids have demonstrated remarkable anti-cancer activity, positioning them as potential candidates for anti-tumor drug development. In recent years, organic synthetic chemists have dedicated efforts to devise efficient and viable strategies for the total synthesis of spirotryprostatin alkaloids, aiming to meet the demands within the pharmaceutical domain. The construction of the spiro-C atom within the spirotryprostatin scaffold and the chirality control at the spiro atomic center emerge as pivotal aspects in the synthesis of these compounds. This review categorically delineates the synthesis of spirotryprostatin alkaloids based on the formation mechanism of the spiro-C atom.
Advancing Gastrointestinal Health: Curcumin’s Efficacy and Nanopreparations
Authors: Ji Jialin , Ma Zhaojie , Wang Yingshuai
Published: April 2024

Curcumin (CCM) is a polyphenol compound extracted from the turmeric rhizome. It has various biological activities, including antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and antioxidant. Due to its diverse activities, it is often used by researchers to study the therapeutic effects on various diseases. However, its poor solubility leads to poor bioavailability, and it is necessary to increase the water solubility with the help of carriers to improve the therapeutic effect. Gastrointestinal disease is a major global health problem that continues to affect human health. In this review, we have summarized the possible mechanism and therapeutic effect of CCM in various gastrointestinal diseases, and the improvement in the curative effect of CCM with nanopreparation. Finally, we concluded that there have been many clinical trials of CCM in combination with other drugs for the treatment of gastrointestinal disease, but so far, few have used CCM nanomaterials for treatment. Although in vitro and preclinical experiments have shown that nanopreparations can improve the efficacy of CCM, there are still insufficient studies on the safety of carriers.
PVP Passivated δ-CsPbI3: Vacancy Induced Visible-Light Absorption and Efficient Photocatalysis
Authors: Wen Jianfeng , Du Xin , Hua Feng , Gu Yiting , Li Ming , Tang Tao
Published: April 2024

The aqueous instability of halide perovskite seriously hinders its direct application in water as a potential photocatalyst. Here, we prepared a new type of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) passivated δ-CsPbI3 (δ-CsPbI3@PVP) microcrystal by a facile method. This material can be uniformly dispersed in water and stably maintain its crystal structure for a long time, breaking through the bottleneck of halide perovskite photocatalysis in water. Under visible light, δ-CsPbI3@PVP can almost completely photodegrade organic dyes (including Rhodamine B, methylene blue, and crystal violet) in only 20 min. The efficient photocatalytic activity is attributed to the enhanced visible light absorption arising from PbI2 defects in δ-CsPbI3@PVP and the intrinsic low photoluminescence quantum yield of δ-CsPbI3, which induces efficient light absorption and photocatalytic activity. We highlight δ-CsPbI3@PVP as an effective aqueous photocatalyst, and this study provides new insights into how to exploit the potential of halide perovskite in photocatalytic applications.
Citrus limon Wastes from Part of the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa: Medicinal, Sustainable Agricultural, and Bio-Resource Potential
Authors: Nodola Phumelele , Miya Gugulethu M. , Mazwi Vuyokazi , Oriola Ayodeji O. , Oyedeji Opeoluwa O. , Hosu Yiseyon S. , Kuria Simon K. , Oyedeji Adebola O.
Published: April 2024

The fruits of Citrus limon are often purchased for their vitamin C-rich juice, while the fruit peel and the tree leaves are discarded as wastes. This study obtained the chemical profiles of the essential oils (EOs) of C. limon wastes (the peel and leaves), evaluated their medicinal value as antioxidants, their potential for sustainable use in agriculture as an insecticide for post-harvest preservation of grains, and their potential as a bioresource in livestock feed formulations. The EOs were isolated from C. limon leaves and peel using a hydro-distillation method on a Clevenger apparatus. The oil constituents were identified using the gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) hyphenated technique. The oils were evaluated for their in vitro antioxidant activity using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric-reducing antioxidant power methods. An insecticidal study was conducted using contact toxicity, fumigation, and repellence bioassay methods against Sitophilus zeamais (maize weevils). Finally, the predicted income from using lemon peel as an alternative or substitute ingredient for maize in livestock feed formulations was obtained through a conventional simulation method. Chemically, limonene was found to be present in all the EOs analyzed (12–52%), while α-pinene was only found in the fresh leaf and peel oils (13.3% and 10.6%). Caryophyllene oxide was identified as the major component of the dried leaf oil (17.7%). At 20 µg m, the dry peel oil exhibited the highest inhibitory activity (52.41 ± 0.26%) against the DPPH radical, which was comparable to L-ascorbic acid (a standard antioxidant) at 54.25 ± 3.55%. The insecticidal study revealed that the dry peel oil is a better insect repellent (73.33 ± 6.95% at 10 µL) and fumigant (LC50 = 0.17 µL g−1 after 48 h) natural agent compared to the peel oil. Conversely, the dry peel oil showed a better contact activity (LC50 = 1.69 µL g−1) against the maize weevils compared to the dry leaf oil. The simulation study showed the cost of using dry lemon peel as an alternative to maize in livestock feed formulation to be ZAR 2.8 billion, compared against the higher cost of feed formulation with maize, which currently stands at ZAR 24.9 billion. This study has shown that C. limon wastes (the peel and leaves) contain EOs with unique chemical profiles, valuable medicinal properties as free radical scavengers, and considerable insecticidal properties for agricultural use in post-harvest grain preservation, presenting a cost-effective and promising bioresource for livestock feed production.
An Update in Computational Methods for Environmental Monitoring: Theoretical Evaluation of the Molecular and Electronic Structures of Natural Pigment–Metal Complexes
Authors: Maranata Gabriella Josephine , Megantara Sandra , Hasanah Aliya Nur
Published: April 2024

Metals are beneficial to life, but the presence of these elements in excessive amounts can harm both organisms and the environment; therefore, detecting the presence of metals is essential. Currently, metal detection methods employ powerful instrumental techniques that require a lot of time and money. Hence, the development of efficient and effective metal indicators is essential. Several synthetic metal detectors have been made, but due to their risk of harm, the use of natural pigments is considered a potential alternative. Experiments are needed for their development, but they are expensive and time-consuming. This review explores various computational methods and approaches that can be used to investigate metal–pigment interactions because choosing the right methods and approaches will affect the reliability of the results. The results show that quantum mechanical methods (ab initio, density functional theory, and semiempirical approaches) and molecular dynamics simulations have been used. Among the available methods, the density functional theory approach with the B3LYP functional and the LANL2DZ ECP and basis set is the most promising combination due to its good accuracy and cost-effectiveness. Various experimental studies were also in good agreement with the results of computational methods. However, deeper analysis still needs to be carried out to find the best combination of functions and basis sets.
Effects of the In Situ Growth of CNTs on Ti-Coated Diamond Surfaces on the Mechanical Properties of Diamond/Aluminum Composites
Authors: Wu Hao , Zhu Ping , Xia Yixiao , Ma Yifu , Ding Junyao , Gou Huasong , Zhang Qiang , Yang Sen , Wu Gaohui
Published: April 2024

Diamond/aluminum composites have attracted significant attention as novel thermal management materials, with their interfacial bonding state and configuration playing a crucial role in determining their thermal conductivity and mechanical properties. The present work aims to evaluate the bending strength and thermal conductivity of CNT-modified Ti-coated diamond/aluminum composites with multi-scale structures. The Fe catalyst was encapsulated on the surface of Ti-coated diamond particles using the solution impregnation method, and CNTs were grown in situ on the surface of Ti-coated diamond particles using the plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) method. We investigated the influence of interface structure on the thermal conductivity and mechanical properties of diamond/aluminum composites. The results show that the CNT-modified Ti-coated diamond/aluminum composite exhibits excellent bending strength, reaching up to 281 MPa, compared to uncoated diamond/aluminum composites and Ti-coated diamond/aluminum composites. The selective bonding between diamond and aluminum was improved by the interfacial reaction between Ti and diamond particles, as well as between CNT and Al. This led to the enhanced mechanical properties of Ti-coated diamond/aluminum composites while maintaining acceptable thermal conductivity. This work provides insights into the interface’s configuration design and the performance optimization of diamond/metal composites for thermal management.
Nitrogen-Rich Triazine-Based Covalent Organic Frameworks as Efficient Visible Light Photocatalysts for Hydrogen Peroxide Production
Authors: Yang Shu , Zhi Keke , Zhang Zhimin , Kerem Rukiya , Hong Qiong , Zhao Lei , Wu Wenbo , Wang Lulu , Wang Duozhi
Published: April 2024

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have been widely used in photocatalytic hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production due to their favorable band structure and excellent light absorption. Due to the rapid recombination rate of charge carriers, however, their applications are mainly restricted. This study presents the design and development of two highly conjugated triazine-based COFs (TBP-COF and TTP-COF) and evaluates their photocatalytic H2O2 production performance. The nitrogen-rich structures and high degrees of conjugation of TBP-COF and TTP-COF facilitate improved light absorption, promote O2 adsorption, enhance their redox power, and enable the efficient separation and transfer of photogenerated charge carriers. There is thus an increase in the photocatalytic activity for the production of H2O2. When exposed to 10 W LED visible light irradiation at a wavelength of 420 nm, the pyridine-based TTP-COF produced 4244 μmol h−1 g−1 of H2O2 from pure water in the absence of a sacrificial agent. Compared to TBP-COF (1882 μmol h−1 g−1), which has a similar structure but lacks pyridine sites, TTP-COF demonstrated nearly 2.5 times greater efficiency. Furthermore, it exhibited superior performance compared to most previously published nonmetal COF-based photocatalysts.
Supramolecular Hydrogel Dexamethasone–Diclofenac for the Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Song Yanqin , Yang Pufan , Guo Wen , Lu Panpan , Huang Congying , Cai Zhiruo , Jiang Xin , Yang Gangqiang , Du Yuan , Zhao Feng
Published: April 2024

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) severely affects patients’ quality of life and is commonly treated with glucocorticosteroids injections, like dexamethasone, which may have side effects. This study aimed to create a novel low dose of twin-drug hydrogel containing dexamethasone and diclofenac and explore its potential as a drug delivery system for an enhanced anti-inflammatory effect. Its characterization involved rheology, transmission electron microscope (TEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Furthermore, the hydrogel demonstrated thixotropic properties. The hydrogel exhibited no cytotoxicity against RAW 264.7 macrophages. Furthermore, the hydrogel demonstrated a significant anti-inflammatory efficacy by effectively downregulating the levels of NO, TNF-α, and IL-6 in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated RAW 264.7 macrophages. The co-delivery approach, when intra-articularly injected in adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA) rats, significantly alleviated chronic inflammation leading to reduced synovitis, delayed bone erosion onset, and the downregulation of inflammatory cytokines. The biocompatibility and adverse effect evaluation indicated good biological safety. Furthermore, the hydrogel demonstrated efficacy in reducing NF-κB nuclear translocation in LPS-induced RAW 264.7 macrophages and inhibited p-NF-kB, COX-2, and iNOS expression both in RAW 264.7 macrophages and the joints of AIA rats. In conclusion, the findings indicate that the hydrogel possesses potent anti-inflammatory activity, which effectively addresses the limitations associated with free forms. It presents a promising therapeutic strategy for the management of RA.
Flexible Sandwich-Shaped Cellulose Nanocrystals/Silver Nanowires/MXene Films Exhibit Efficient Electromagnetic-Shielding Interference Performance
Authors: Yan Shasha , Li Ling , Zhang Hong , Fu Qiubo , Ge Xingbo
Published: April 2024

The electromagnetic pollution problem is becoming increasingly serious due to the speedy advance of electronic communication devices. There are broad application prospects for the development of flexible, wearable composite films with high electromagnetic interference (EMI)-shielding performance. The MX@AC composite films were prepared from MXene, silver nanowires (AgNWs) and cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) with a sandwich structure. Benefiting from the upper and lower frame structure formed by winding 1D AgNWs and CNC, the tensile strength of the MX@AC was improved to 35 MPa (12.5 wt% CNC content) from 4 MPa (0 wt% CNC content). The high conductivity of MXene and AgNWs resulted in the MX@AC composite film conductivity up to 90,670 S/m, EMI SE for 90 dB, as well as SSE/t up to 7797 dB cm2 g−1. And the MX@AC composite film was tested for practical application, showing that it can effectively isolate electromagnetic waves in practical application.
Presence of Mycoplasma bovis in Bulk Tank Milk and Associated Risk Factor Analysis in Serbian Dairy Farms
Authors: Ninković Milan , Milićević Vesna , Radojičić Sonja , Bugarski Dejan , Stević Nataša
Published: April 2024

Mycoplasma bovis (M. bovis) is a significant pathogen responsible for highly transmissible mastitis in cattle globally. It primarily spreads through colostrum, milk, and semen. Cows with persistent infections act as carriers, intermittently releasing the pathogen, making their milk a pivotal factor in infection transmission. Given the limited seroprevalence surveys in Serbia, this study aimed to detect M. bovis presence in bulk tank milk (BTM), determine route shedding, and evaluate infection risks. BTM samples were collected from 115 dairy farms across Serbia, with M. bovis DNA detected in 11 out of the 115 samples by real-time PCR. Additionally, M. bovis was detected in 1.30% of nasal swabs sampled from apparently healthy animals. A univariate analysis of the risk factors associated with M. bovis presence in the BTM samples revealed correlations with factors such as the breed, farm seropositivity, pre-milking and post-milking disinfection practices, farm type, cow population, milk yield, number of cows in the BTM samples, and parity. Seropositive farms exhibited the highest likelihood of M. bovis presence in milk. Moreover, pre- and post-milking disinfection practices and highly productive cows yielding over 8000 L of milk were identified as risk factors for PCR-positive BTM. In a multivariable mixed regression analysis, a risk factor for the presence of M. bovis infection in the BTM sample was the Holstein breed. These findings underscore a relatively high prevalence of M. bovis in BTM within Serbian dairy farms, suggesting a potential risk for M. bovis spreading through milk and oral route of calves’ infection.
Structural Investigations on 2-Amidobenzimidazole Derivatives as New Inhibitors of Protein Kinase CK1 Delta
Authors: Calenda Sara , Catarzi Daniela , Varano Flavia , Vigiani Erica , Volpini Rosaria , Lambertucci Catia , Spinaci Andrea , Trevisan Letizia , Grieco Ilenia , Federico Stephanie , Spalluto Giampiero , Novello Gianluca , Salmaso Veronica , Moro Stefano , Colotta Vittoria
Published: April 2024

Protein kinase CK1δ (CK1δ) is a serine-threonine/kinase that modulates different physiological processes, including the cell cycle, DNA repair, and apoptosis. CK1δ overexpression, and the consequent hyperphosphorylation of specific proteins, can lead to sleep disorders, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases. CK1δ inhibitors showed anticancer properties as well as neuroprotective effects in cellular and animal models of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. To obtain new ATP-competitive CK1δ inhibitors, three sets of benzimidazole-2-amino derivatives were synthesized (1–32), bearing different substituents on the fused benzo ring (R) and diverse pyrazole-containing acyl moieties on the 2-amino group. The best-performing derivatives were those featuring the (1H-pyrazol-3-yl)-acetyl moiety on the benzimidazol-2-amino scaffold (13–32), which showed CK1δ inhibitor activity in the low micromolar range. Among the R substituents, 5-cyano was the most advantageous, leading to a compound endowed with nanomolar potency (23, IC50 = 98.6 nM). Molecular docking and dynamics studies were performed to point out the inhibitor–kinase interactions.
Human Healthcare and Its Pharmacy Component from a Safety Point of View
Authors: Tkachenko Natalia , Pankevych Ostap , Mahanova Tamara , Hromovyk Bohdan , Lesyk Roman , Lesyk Lilia
Published: April 2024

Healthcare plays a crucial role in public and national safety as a significant part of state activity and a component of national safety, whose mission is to organize and ensure affordable medical care for the population. The four stages of the genesis of healthcare safety development with the corresponding safety models of formation were defined: technical, human factor or security management, systemic security management, and cognitive complexity. It was established that at all stages, little attention is paid to the issues of the formation of the pharmaceutical sector’s safety. Taking into account the development of safety models that arise during the four stages of the genesis of safety science, we have proposed a model of the evolution of pharmaceutical safety formation. At the same time, future research is proposed to focus on new holistic concepts of safety, such as “Safety II”, evaluation and validation methods, especially in the pharmaceutical sector, where the development of this topic remained in the second stage of the evolution of science, the search for pharmaceutical errors related to drugs.
Registration of a Quadrupole Transition in High-Energy 88Sr+ Ions Obtained by Laser Ablation Method
Authors: Telnov Evgeny , Borisyuk Petr , Tregubov Dmitry , Provorchenko Daniil , Trichev Konstantin , Cherepanov Pavel
Published: April 2024

In this paper, we demonstrate the interaction of 674 nm laser radiation with a clock quadrupole transition in high-energy 88Sr+ ions obtained by laser ablation. The results of the spectrometry of the clock and the pump transitions are presented. We describe the parameters of the experimental setup and the protocol of the clock transition spectroscopy and analyze various line broadening mechanisms.
Fundamental Limits on Earth-like Exoplanet Imaging with Large Telescopes Employing Laser Tomographic Adaptive Optics Systems: A Comparative Analysis of LGS AO and LTAO Systems
Authors: Deng Keran , Huang Jian , Wang Ke
Published: April 2024

Exoplanet imaging with high-contrast imaging adaptive optics systems, though challenging, is a promising path toward the characterization of terrestrial planets. We analyzed the fundamental limitations associated with the direct imaging of terrestrial exoplanets around low-mass stars with Extremely Large Telescopes using laser tomographic adaptive optics (LTAO) and derived the post-coronagraph image shape in the focal plane from LTAO systems. Additionally, the fundamental limitation of direct imaging was found to come from unseen spatial frequencies during tomographic reconstruction. Through the provision of optimization strategies for laser guide star (LGS) asterisms, based on the post-coronagraph image contrast, we aimed to assist in the design of LTAO systems for Extremely Large Telescopes, resulting in a six-fold improvement in the LTAO post-coronagraph image plane at 0.1 arcseconds.
Enhanced Clustering MAC Protocol Based on Learning Automata for UV Networks
Authors: Li Cheng , Xu Zhiyong , Wang Jingyuan , Zhao Jiyong , He Binbin , Wang Leitao , Li Jianhua
Published: April 2024

Ultraviolet (UV) networks are widely applied in complex electromagnetic environments. Designing an efficient multi-node medium access control (MAC) protocol for these networks is important. In this study, we proposed an enhanced clustering time division multiple access (TDMA) MAC protocol based on clustering and learning automata (LA). Subsequently, the effects of the network topology, class of service, and number of cluster nodes on the network performance under the proposed protocol were analyzed. Then, the protocol was compared with the TDMA protocol and clustering system. Results revealed that it obtained a better network performance, proving its suitability for multi-node UV networking.
Chitosan from Mushroom Improves Drought Stress Tolerance in Tomatoes
Authors: Demehin Olusoji , Attjioui Maha , Goñi Oscar , O’Connell Shane
Published: April 2024

Chitosan is a derivative of chitin that is one of the most abundant biopolymers in nature, found in crustacean shells as well as in fungi cell walls. Most of the commercially available chitosans are produced from the exoskeletons of crustaceans. The extraction process involves harsh chemicals, has limited potential due to the seasonal and limited supply and could cause allergic reactions. However, chitosan has been shown to alleviate the negative effect of environmental stressors in plants, but there is sparse evidence of how chitosan source affects this bioactivity. The aim of this study was to investigate the ability of chitosan from mushroom in comparison to crustacean chitosan in enhancing drought stress tolerance in tomato plants (cv. MicroTom). Chitosan treatment was applied through foliar application and plants were exposed to two 14-day drought stress periods at vegetative and fruit set growth stages. Phenotypic (e.g., fruit number and weight), physiological (RWC) and biochemical-stress-related markers (osmolytes, photosynthetic pigments and malondialdehyde) were analyzed at different time points during the crop growth cycle. Our hypothesis was that this drought stress model will negatively impact tomato plants while the foliar application of chitosan extracted from either crustacean or mushroom will alleviate this effect. Our findings indicate that drought stress markedly decreased the leaf relative water content (RWC) and chlorophyll content, increased lipid peroxidation, and significantly reduced the average fruit number. Chitosan application, regardless of the source, improved these parameters and enhanced plant tolerance to drought stress. It provides a comparative study of the biostimulant activity of chitosan from diverse sources and suggests that chitosan sourced from fungi could serve as a more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to the current chitosan from crustaceans.
Cultural vs. State Borders: Plant Foraging by Hawraman and Mukriyan Kurds in Western Iran
Authors: Sulaiman Naji , Salehi Farzad , Prakofjewa Julia , Cavalleri Sofia Anna Enrica , Ahmed Hiwa M. , Mattalia Giulia , Rastegar Azad , Maghsudi Manijeh , Amin Hawraz M. , Rasti Ahmad , Hosseini Seyed Hamzeh , Ghorbani Abdolbaset , Pieroni Andrea , Sõukand Renata
Published: April 2024

Plant foraging is a millennia-old activity still practiced by many people in the Middle East, particularly in the Fertile Crescent region, where several socioeconomic, ecological, and cultural factors shape this practice. This study seeks to understand the drivers of plant foraging in this complex region characterized by highly diverse linguistic, religious, and cultural groups. Our study aims to document the wild plants used by Kurds in Western Iran, identify similarities and differences among Hawraman and Mukriyan Kurdish groups in Iran, and compare our findings with a previous study on the Hawramani in Iraq. Forty-three semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted in Kurdish villages of Western Iran. The results revealed the use of 44 wild food plant taxa, their preparation, and culinary uses. Among the reported taxa, 28 plant taxa were used by Mukriyani, and 33 by Hawramani. The study revealed a significant difference between the Hawraman and Mukriyan regions in Iran, whereas there is a high similarity between Hawramani Kurds in Iran and Iraq. We found that the invisible cultural border carries more weight than political divisions, and this calls for a paradigm shift in how we perceive and map the distribution of ethnobotanical knowledge.
In Pursuit of Optimal Quality: Cultivar-Specific Drying Approaches for Medicinal Cannabis
Authors: Birenboim Matan , Brikenstein Nimrod , Duanis-Assaf Danielle , Maurer Dalia , Chalupowicz Daniel , Kenigsbuch David , Shimshoni Jakob A.
Published: April 2024

A limited number of studies have examined how drying conditions affect the cannabinoid and terpene content in cannabis inflorescences. In the present study, we evaluated the potential of controlled atmosphere drying chambers for drying medicinal cannabis inflorescence. Controlled atmosphere drying chambers were found to reduce the drying and curing time by at least 60% compared to traditional drying methods, while preserving the volatile terpene content. On the other hand, inflorescences subjected to traditional drying were highly infested by Alternaria alternata and also revealed low infestation of Botrytis cinerea. In the high-THC chemovar (“240”), controlled N2 and atm drying conditions preserved THCA concentration as compared to the initial time point (t0). On the other hand, in the hybrid chemovar (“Gen12”) all of the employed drying conditions preserved THCA and CBDA content. The optimal drying conditions for preserving monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes in both chemovars were C5O5 (5% CO2, 5% O2, and 90% N2) and pure N2, respectively. The results of this study suggest that each chemovar may require tailored drying conditions in order to preserve specific terpenes and cannabinoids. Controlled atmosphere drying chambers could offer a cost-effective, fast, and efficient drying method for preserving cannabinoids and terpenes during the drying process while reducing the risk of mold growth.
Numerical Study of the Thermal and Hydraulic Characteristics of Plate-Fin Heat Sinks
Authors: Soloveva Olga V. , Solovev Sergei A. , Shakurova Rozalina Z.
Published: April 2024

One of the main trends in the development of the modern electronics industry is the miniaturization of electronic devices and components. Miniature electronic devices require compact cooling systems that can dissipate large amounts of heat in a small space. Researchers are exploring ways to improve the design of the heat sink of the cooling system in such a way that it increases the heat flow while at the same time reducing the size of the heat sink. Researchers have previously proposed different designs for heat sinks with altered fin shapes, perforations, and configurations. However, this approach to optimizing the design of the heat sink results in an increase in the labor intensity of its production. Our goal is to optimize the heat sink design to reduce its size, reduce metal consumption, and increase heat flow. This goal is achieved by changing the number of fins and the distance between them. In this case, there is no significant difference in the geometry of a conventional plate-fin heat sink, and a low labor intensity of production is ensured. A numerical investigation of heat flow and pressure drop in models of plate-fin heat sinks of various sizes and metal volumes was conducted using the ANSYS Fluent software package (v. 19.2) and computational fluid dynamics employing the control volume method. We used the SST k-ω turbulence model for the calculations. The research results showed that by changing the number of fins and the distance between them, it is possible to increase the heat flow from the heat sink to 24.44%, reduce its metal consumption to 6.95%, and reduce its size to 30%. The results of this study may be useful to manufacturers of cooling systems who seek to achieve a balance between the compactness of the heat sink and its ability to remove large amounts of heat.
Pyrene-Modified Cyclic Peptides Detect Cu2+ Ions by Fluorescence in Water
Authors: Maekawa Yuhi , Sakura Sora , Furutani Yuji , Fujihara Rento , Sugime Hisashi , Ohtsuki Takashi , Kitamatsu Mizuki
Published: April 2024

The detection of metal ions is an option for maintaining water quality and diagnosing metal ion-related diseases. In this study, we successfully detected metal ions using fluorescent peptides in water. First, we prepared seven linear (L1–L7) and seven cyclic (C1–C7) peptides containing two pyrenyl (Pyr) units and assessed the response to various metal ions by fluorescence. The results indicated that C1, which contains a hexameric cyclic peptide moiety consisting of Pyr and Gly units, did not show a fluorescent response to metal ions, while the linear L1 corresponding to C1 showed a response to Cu2+, but its selectivity was found to be poor through a competition assay for each metal ion. We then assessed C2–C7 and L2–L7, in which Gly was replaced by His units at various positions in the same manner. The results showed that C2–C7 responded to Cu2+ in a manner dependent on the His position. Additionally, superior selectivity was observed in C7 through a competition assay. These results demonstrate that the structural restriction of peptides and the sequence affect the selective detection of Cu2+ and reveal that peptides with an appropriate structure can accomplish the fluorescent detection of Cu2+ specifically.
Long-Term Ampacity Prediction Method for Cable Intermediate Joints Based on the Prophet Model
Authors: Zhang Zhiqiang , Liu Wenping , Zeng Lingcheng , He Song , Zhou Heng , Ruan Jiangjun
Published: April 2024

The development of power grids is hindered by the limited transmission capacity of cable equipment, necessitating the accurate prediction of dynamic ampacity for cable expansion. This study focuses on the 110 kV cable intermediate joint, employing radial and axial inversion techniques for real-time conductor temperature inversion. Utilizing the Prophet time series model, we predict environmental changes and propose a dynamic ampacity evaluation method for cable intermediate joints. Experimental validation confirms the model’s accuracy, with prediction errors under 10 K, demonstrating its potential for enhancing cable system reliability and power grid development.