bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced Sonophotocatalytic Degradation of Acid Red 14 Using Fe3O4@SiO2/PAEDTC@MIL-101 (Fe) Based on Metal-Organic Framework
Authors: Al-Hawary Sulieman Ibraheem Shelash , Rahimpoor Razzagh , Rahmani Abdolrasoul , Romero-Parra Rosario Mireya , Ramírez-Coronel Andrés Alexis , Alhachami Firas Rahi , Mengelizadeh Nezamaddin , Balarak Davoud
Published: February 2023

Here, the magnetic Fe3O4@SiO2/PAEDTC@MIL-101 (Fe) with a new core-shell structure was synthesized, and its sonophotocatalytic properties were evaluated for acid red 14 (AR14) degradation. Particle characterizations were determined by scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), and vibrating-sample magnetometer (VSM), and the analysis results offered an excellent synthesis of mesoporous particles. Fe3O4@SiO2/PAEDTC@MIL-101 (Fe)/UV/US showed high degradation kinetics rate (0.0327 min−1) compared to sonocatalytic processes (0.0181 min−1), photocatalytic (0218 min−1), sonolysis (0.008 min−1), and photolysis (0.005 min−1). Maximum removal efficiencies of AR14 (100%) and total organic carbon (69.96%) were obtained at pH of 5, catalyst mass of 0.5 g/L, initial AR14 concentration of 50 mg/L, and ultrasound power of 36 W. Evaluation of BOD5/COD ratio during dye treatment confirmed that the sonophotocatalysis process can be useful for converting major contaminant molecules into biodegradable compounds. After recycling eight times, the prepared composite still has sonophotocatalytic degradation stability above 90% for AR14. Scavenging tests confirmed that holes (h+) and hydroxyl (•OH) were the pivotal agents in the decomposition system. Based on the results, the synthesized sample can be suggested as an excellent and promising sonophotocatalyst for the degradation of AR14 dye and its conversion into biodegradable compounds.
Role of the G Protein-Coupled Receptors in Cancer and Stromal Cells: From Functions to Novel Therapeutic Perspectives
Authors: Lappano Rosamaria , Maggiolini Marcello
Published: February 2023

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are transmembrane signal transducers that regulate a plethora of physiological and pathological processes [...]
Glycine Dissolution Behavior under Forced Convection
Authors: Eder Cornelia , Schiele Simon A. , Luxenburger Frederik , Briesen Heiko
Published: February 2023

The integration of a flow-through cell into a Mach–Zehnder interferometer offers the possibility to study the dissolution of crystals in detail. The influence of flow on the displacement velocity of a specific crystal facet and the distribution of the solute concentration around the crystal are measured simultaneously in a time-resolved manner. The disintegration from the crystal surface and the mass transfer into the solvent can be separated. We aim to establish an in vitro experiment that improves the quality of prediction for the bioavailability of active pharmaceutical ingredients. In the presented feasibility study, glycine was used as a model substance. It was successfully demonstrated that the set-up is suitable for observing disintegration and mass transfer separately. The description of the dissolution rate in terms of the Sherwood number as a function of Reynolds, Schmidt and Grashof numbers clearly shows that with increasing flow rate there is a transition from natural to forced convection as the dominant mass transfer mechanism. Temporal and spatial resolved concentration fields visualize the convective mass transfer and also show the influence of convection on the diffusive boundary layer. No limitation of the dissolution by surface disintegration could be found in the examined range of flow rates.
Vacuum Electrodeposition of Cu(In, Ga)Se2 Thin Films and Controlling the Ga Incorporation Route
Authors: Hou Kanwen , Liu Guohao , Yang Jia , Wang Wei , Xia Lixin , Zhang Jun , Xu Baoqiang , Yang Bin
Published: February 2023

The traditional electrochemical deposition process used to prepare Cu(In, Ga)Se2 (CIGS) thin films has inherent flaws, such as the tendency to produce low-conductivity Ga2O3 phase and internal defects. In this article, CIGS thin films were prepared under vacuum (3 kPa), and the mechanism of vacuum electrodeposition CIGS was illustrated. The route of Ga incorporation into the thin films could be controlled in a vacuum environment via inhibiting pH changes at the cathode region. Through the incorporation of a low-conductivity secondary phase, Ga2O3 was inhibited at 3 kPa, as shown by Raman and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The preparation process used a higher current density and a lower diffusion impedance and charge transfer impedance. The films that were produced had larger particle sizes.
Synthesis and Crystal Structure of Chlorido-Bridged Binuclear Copper(I) Complexes with Carbodithioate-Type Ligands
Authors: Khan Sher Ali , Khan Ezzat , Qayyum Sadaf , Noor Awal
Published: February 2023

The CuCl binuclear complexes were synthesized with phenyl-1H-pyrazole-1-carbodithioate (L1) and phenyl-3-methyl-1H-pyrazole-1-carbodithioate (L2) ligands. The complexes were isolated as crystalline material in a reasonable quantity. The complexes were crystallized in acetonitrile (MeCN) and characterized for their single crystal, using X-ray diffraction. The two units with the general formula LCuCl are bridged together via chlorido ligands, affording (LCuCl)2-type complexes. The complexes, [Cu2(μ-Cl)2(L1)2] 1 and [Cu2(μ-Cl)2(L2)2] 2 are monoclinic and triclinic with space group P21/n and Pi, respectively. The crystal packing is stabilized by C1(p)⋯C(p) and S⋯C(p) interactions extended in 2D fashion in complex 1, while complex 2 is stabilized by C(p)⋯S interactions extended in a 1D fashion. Structural features and secondary interactions present in both complexes discussed in this article.
The Influence of Different Focusing Currents on the Microstructure Evolution and Wear Properties of a Scanning Electron Beam Modified Inconel 625 Nickel Base Alloy Surface
Authors: Li Juan , Yao Jiaye , Zhao Guanghui , Li Huaying , Li Yugui , Liu Jie
Published: February 2023

The surface of Inconel 625, a nickel-base alloy, was strengthened by vacuum electron beam scanning technology. The evolution of its microstructure was analyzed by electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) and the friction and wear tester (RETC). The results show that the FCC phase in the microstructure of Inconel 625 nickel-base alloy is stripped and islanded after electron beam scanning treatment. The austenite texture type changes and finally forms a typical cubic texture with a certain strength of S texture. With the increase in temperature of the focusing current, the wear resistance of nickel-base alloy plates first increases and then decreases. Under a 720 mA focusing current, the wear volume and wear rate are the lowest, which are 0.141525 mm3 and 1.41525 × 10−5 mm3/N∙m, respectively. The wear rate decreases by 26.64%, which may be related to the columnar crystals produced in the melting area. After electron beam surface modification, the oxidation wear and adhesive wear are relatively smaller than the original materials.
Analytical Validation of NavDx, a cfDNA-Based Fragmentomic Profiling Assay for HPV-Driven Cancers
Authors: Gunning Alicia , Kumar Sunil , Williams Cassin Kimmel , Berger Barry M. , Naber Stephen P. , Gupta Piyush B. , Del Vecchio Fitz Catherine , Kuperwasser Charlotte
Published: February 2023

The NavDx® blood test analyzes tumor tissue modified viral (TTMV)-HPV DNA to provide a reliable means of detecting and monitoring HPV-driven cancers. The test has been clinically validated in a large number of independent studies and has been integrated into clinical practice by over 1000 healthcare providers at over 400 medical sites in the US. This Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA), high complexity laboratory developed test, has also been accredited by the College of American Pathologists (CAP) and the New York State Department of Health. Here, we report a detailed analytical validation of the NavDx assay, including sample stability, specificity as measured by limits of blank (LOBs), and sensitivity illustrated via limits of detection and quantitation (LODs and LOQs). LOBs were 0–0.32 copies/μL, LODs were 0–1.10 copies/μL, and LOQs were <1.20–4.11 copies/μL, demonstrating the high sensitivity and specificity of data provided by NavDx. In-depth evaluations including accuracy and intra- and inter-assay precision studies were shown to be well within acceptable ranges. Regression analysis revealed a high degree of correlation between expected and effective concentrations, demonstrating excellent linearity (R2 = 1) across a broad range of analyte concentrations. These results demonstrate that NavDx accurately and reproducibly detects circulating TTMV-HPV DNA, which has been shown to aid in the diagnosis and surveillance of HPV-driven cancers.
Experimental Investigation of Impacts of Initial Pressure Levels on Compression Efficiency and Dissolution in Liquid Piston Gas Compression
Authors: Ahn Barah , Ro Paul I.
Published: February 2023

Understanding how the pressure level affects the efficiency of liquid piston gas compression is essential for a greater applicability of the technology in compressed air energy storage. To explore the impacts, compression starting at three different initial pressure levels (1, 2, 3 bar) with a pressure ratio of 2 is performed, and how isothermal compression efficiencies are affected depending on the initial pressures is analyzed. Under the experimental conditions, higher initial pressure leads to lower isothermal efficiency. Air dissolution during the compression is also investigated because the chamber is a pressure-varying and a liquid-containing environment, where the gas solubility changes during the process. Evaluating the dissolution is critical as it affects the energy output when the compressed air is expanded to regenerate the energy. The changes in the air mass and the retrievable volume of the air after expansion are quantified based on Henry’s law. For a compression at higher pressure, because the air solubility is proportional to pressure, a greater reduction in the air mass and volume percentages is expected. This trend of the mass decreasing with the pressure level leads to less energy output than the originally intended output when the stored energy is retrieved in a discharging process.
De Novo SNP Discovery and Genotyping of Masson Pine (Pinus massoniana Lamb.) via Genotyping-by-Sequencing
Authors: Li Peng-Le , Yang Mo-Hua , Jiang Xiao-Long , Xiong Huan , Duan Hui-Liang , Zou Feng-Lan , Xu Qian-Yu , Wang Wei , Hong Yong-Hui , Lin Neng-Qing
Published: February 2023

Masson pine (Pinus massoniana Lamb.) is an important tree species in China, but its genomic research has been hindered due to a large genome size. Genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) has been a powerful approach to revolutionize the field of genomic research by facilitating the discovery of thousands of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and genotyping in non-model organisms, at relatively low cost. Here, we performed de novo SNP discovery and genotyping in 299 trees via the genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) approach. The effort produced 9.33 × 109 sequence reads, 265,525 SNP-associated contigs, and 6,739,240 raw SNPs. Further filtering and validation of the SNP-associated contigs for reliable SNPs were performed using blasting against the Pinus tabuliformis reference genome, functional annotation, technical replicates, and custom parameter settings for the optimization. The 159,372 SNP-associated contigs were aligned and validated for SNP prediction, in which 60,038 contigs were searched with hits in the NCBI nr database. We further improved the SNP discovery and genotyping with multiple technical replicates and custom parameter settings filtering. It was found that the use of blasting, annotation, technical replicates, and specific parameter settings removed many unreliable SNPs and identified 20,055 more precise and reliable SNPs from the 10,712 filtered contigs. We further demonstrated the informativeness of the identified SNPs in the inference of some genetic diversity and structure. These findings should be useful to stimulate genomic research and genomics-assisted breeding of Masson pine.
Maps of Constitutive-Heterochromatin Distribution for Four Martes Species (Mustelidae, Carnivora, Mammalia) Show the Formative Role of Macrosatellite Repeats in Interspecific Variation of Chromosome Structure
Authors: Beklemisheva Violetta R. , Lemskaya Natalya A. , Prokopov Dmitry Yu. , Perelman Polina L. , Romanenko Svetlana A. , Proskuryakova Anastasia A. , Serdyukova Natalya A. , Utkin Yaroslav A. , Nie Wenhui , Ferguson-Smith Malcolm A. , Yang Fentang , Graphodatsky Alexander S.
Published: February 2023

Constitutive-heterochromatin placement in the genome affects chromosome structure by occupying centromeric areas and forming large blocks. To investigate the basis for heterochromatin variation in the genome, we chose a group of species with a conserved euchromatin part: the genus Martes [stone marten (M. foina, 2n = 38), sable (M. zibellina, 2n = 38), pine marten (M. martes, 2n = 38), and yellow-throated marten (M. flavigula, 2n = 40)]. We mined the stone marten genome for the most abundant tandem repeats and selected the top 11 macrosatellite repetitive sequences. Fluorescent in situ hybridization revealed distributions of the tandemly repeated sequences (macrosatellites, telomeric repeats, and ribosomal DNA). We next characterized the AT/GC content of constitutive heterochromatin by CDAG (Chromomycin A3-DAPI-after G-banding). The euchromatin conservatism was shown by comparative chromosome painting with stone marten probes in newly built maps of the sable and pine marten. Thus, for the four Martes species, we mapped three different types of tandemly repeated sequences critical for chromosome structure. Most macrosatellites are shared by the four species with individual patterns of amplification. Some macrosatellites are specific to a species, autosomes, or the X chromosome. The variation of core macrosatellites and their prevalence in a genome are responsible for the species-specific variation of the heterochromatic blocks.
Intelligent Process Automation and Business Continuity: Areas for Future Research
Authors: Brás José , Pereira Ruben , Moro Sérgio
Published: February 2023

Robotic process automation and intelligent process automation have gained a foothold in the automation of business processes, using blocks of software (bots). These agents interact with systems through interfaces, replacing human intervention with the aim of improving efficiency, reducing costs and mitigating risks by ensuring and enforcing compliance measures. However, there are aspects of the incorporation of this new reality within the business continuity lifecycle that are still unclear, and which need to be evaluated. This study provides a multivocal literature review of robotic process automation and intelligent process automation correlated with business continuity, to identify the level of awareness of these two emerging forms of automation within the business continuity management lifecycle. Based on the reviewed literature, the study develops a discussion of the main research areas for investigation, identifying what is attracting the attention of practitioners and researchers and which areas they highlight as promising for future research. Numerous sources from relevant backgrounds reveal an interest in these interrelated topics but there as yet is little or no information available on the direct connection between them.
Data Augmentation Method for Pedestrian Dress Recognition in Road Monitoring and Pedestrian Multiple Information Recognition Model
Authors: Wang Huiyong , Guo Liang , Yang Ding , Zhang Xiaoming
Published: February 2023

Road intelligence monitoring is an inevitable trend of urban intelligence, and clothing information is the main factor to identify pedestrians. Therefore, this paper establishes a multi-information clothing recognition model and proposes a data augmentation method based on road monitoring. First, we use Mask R-CNN to detect the clothing category information in the monitoring; then, we transfer the mask to the k-means cluster to obtain the color and finally obtain the clothing color and category. However, the monitoring scene and dataset are quite different, so a data augmentation method suitable for road monitoring is designed to improve the recognition ability of small targets and occluded targets. The small target mAP (mean average precision) recognition ability is improved by 12.37% (from 30.37%). The method of this study can help find relevant passers-by in the actual monitoring scene, which is conducive to the intelligent development of the city.
Characterization and Functional Analysis of OcomOBP7 in Ophraella communa Lesage
Authors: Yue Yang , Ma Chao , Zhang Yan , Chen Hong-Song , Guo Jian-Ying , Liu Ting-Hui , Zhou Zhong-Shi
Published: February 2023

The olfactory system plays a key role in various insect behaviors, and odorant-binding proteins participate in the first step of the olfactory process. Ophraella communa Lesage is an oligophagous phytophagous insect that is a specific biological control agent for Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. The leaf beetle must identify and locate A. artemisiifolia through olfaction; however, its odorant-binding protein (OBP) function has not yet been reported. In this study, OcomOBP7 was cloned, and its tissue expression profile and binding ability were analyzed using RT-qPCR and fluorescence binding assays, respectively. Sequence analysis demonstrated that OcomOBP7 belongs to the classical OBP family. The RT-qPCR results showed that OcomOBP7 was specifically expressed in the antennae, indicating that OcomOBP7 may be involved in chemical communication. The fluorescence binding assay showed that OcomOBP7 has an extensive binding ability to alkenes. The electroantennography experiments showed that O. communa antennal response to α-pinene and ocimene decreased significantly after interference because the two odors specifically bound to OcomOBP7. In summary, α-pinene and ocimene are odorant ligands corresponding to OcomOBP7, indicating that OcomOBP7 is involved in the chemical recognition of A. artemisiifolia. Our study lays a theoretical foundation for research into O. communa attractants, which is helpful for the better biological control of A. artemisiifolia by O. communa.
Patterns and Drivers of Aboveground Insect Diversity along Ecological Transect in Temperate Grazed Steppes of Eastern Eurasian
Authors: Song Xiaoxiao , Ji Lei , Liu Guangming , Zhang Xiao , Hou Xiangyang , Gao Shujing , Wang Ning
Published: February 2023

Insects are important components of biodiversity and play significant roles in the steppe ecosystem. They are abundant, easy to sample, and sensitive to changing conditions, making them useful indicators of environmental changes. This study aims to describe patterns (α and β) of insect diversity across two steppe types (a typical steppe and a desert steppe) along the Eastern Eurasian Steppe Transect (EEST), as well as evaluate the effects of environmental variables in determining these patterns and the influence of plant diversity alterations on these effects. To this end, we collected 5244 individual insects and found an n-shaped diversity distribution along the latitudinal gradient and a significant difference in insect communities across the two steppe types. Further, the Mantel test and path analysis indicate that climate and grazing activities combine to influence insect diversity, and these effects are mediated through plant diversity, strongly supporting the role of bottom-up effects in situations of climatic and grazing pattern changes. Moreover, the contribution of plant diversity varied with steppe types and insect functional groups, with greater effects seen in the typical steppe and herbivorous insects. This indicated the importance of protecting species diversity in steppes through managing plant diversity and assessments of local environmental factors such as grazing intensity and temperature.
Pneumatic Retinopexy Involving the Use of Intravitreal Air Injection and Laser Photocoagulation for Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment in Phakic Eyes
Authors: Zhu Tiepei , Xiang Zhenyang , Huang Qinzhu , Li Gaochun , Guo Shenchao , Li Enhui
Published: February 2023

The clinical efficacy of pneumatic retinopexy (PR) using intravitreal pure air injection and laser photocoagulation for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) remains unknown. Thirty-nine consecutive patients with RRD (39 eyes) were included in this prospective case series. All patients underwent two-step PR surgery containing pure air intravitreal injection and laser photocoagulation retinopexy during hospitalization. The main outcomes were best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and primary anatomic success rates after PR treatment. The mean follow-up was 18.3 ± 9.7 months, ranging from 6 to 37 months. The primary anatomic success rate was 89.7% (35/39) after PR treatment. Final reattachment of the retina was achieved in 100% of cases. Macular epiretinal membrane was developed in two patients (5.7%) among successful PR cases during the follow-up. The mean logMAR BCVA value was significantly improved from 0.94 ± 0.69 before surgery to 0.39 ± 0.41 after surgery. The average central retinal thickness was significantly thinner in the RRD eyes of macula-off patients (206.8 ± 56.13 μm) when compared with the fellow eyes (234.6 ± 48.4 μm) at the last follow-up (p = 0.005). This study concluded that an inpatient PR procedure with pure air injection and laser photocoagulation is a safe and effective approach to treating patients with RRD, who may achieve a high single-operation success rate and good visual acuity recovery.
Long COVID: Clinical Framing, Biomarkers, and Therapeutic Approaches
Authors: Conti Valeria , Corbi Graziamaria , Sabbatino Francesco , De Pascale Domenico , Sellitto Carmine , Stefanelli Berenice , Bertini Nicola , De Simone Matteo , Liguori Luigi , Di Paola Ilenia , De Bernardo Maddalena , Tesse Angela , Rosa Nicola , Pagliano Pasquale , Filippelli Amelia
Published: February 2023

More than two years after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare providers are facing an emergency within an emergency, the so-called long COVID or post-COVID-19 syndrome (PCS). Patients diagnosed with PCS develop an extended range of persistent symptoms and/or complications from COVID-19. The risk factors and clinical manifestations are many and various. Advanced age, sex/gender, and pre-existing conditions certainly influence the pathogenesis and course of this syndrome. However, the absence of precise diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers may further complicate the clinical management of patients. This review aimed to summarize recent evidence on the factors influencing PCS, possible biomarkers, and therapeutic approaches. Older patients recovered approximately one month earlier than younger patients, with higher rates of symptoms. Fatigue during the acute phase of COVID-19 appears to be an important risk factor for symptom persistence. Female sex, older age, and active smoking are associated with a higher risk of developing PCS. The incidence of cognitive decline and the risk of death are higher in PCS patients than in controls. Complementary and alternative medicine appears to be associated with improvement in symptoms, particularly fatigue. The heterogeneous nature of post-COVID symptoms and the complexity of patients with PCS, who are often polytreated due to concomitant clinical conditions, suggest a holistic and integrated approach to provide useful guidance for the treatment and overall management of long COVID.
Positive Clinical Outcomes for Severe Reported Pain Using Robust Non-Addictive Home Electrotherapy—A Case-Series
Authors: Bajaj Anish , Han David , Elman Igor , Thanos Panayotis K. , Dennen Catherine A. , Badgaiyan Rajendra D. , Bowirrat Abdalla , Barh Debmalya , Blum Kenneth
Published: February 2023

The North American opioid epidemic has resulted in over 800,000 related premature overdose fatalities since 2000, with the United States leading the world in highest opioid deaths per capita. Despite increased federal funding in recent years, intended to address this crisis, opioid overdose mortality has continued to increase. Legally prescribed opioids also chronically induce a problematic reduction in affect. While an ideal analgesic has yet to be developed, some effective multimodal non-opioid pharmacological regimens for acute pain management are being more widely utilized. Some investigators have suggested that a safer and more scientifically sound approach might be to induce “dopamine homeostasis” through non-pharmacological approaches, since opioid use even for acute pain of short duration is now being strongly questioned. There is also increasing evidence suggesting that some more robust forms of electrotherapy could be applied as an effective adjunct to avoid the problems associated with opioids. This 4-patient case-series presents such an approach to treatment of severe pain. All 4 of these chiropractic treatment cases involved a component of knee osteoarthritis, in addition to other reported areas of pain. Each patient engaged in a home recovery strategy using H-Wave® device stimulation (HWDS) to address residual extremity issues following treatment of spinal subluxation and other standard treatments. A simple statistical analysis was conducted to determine the change in pain scores (Visual Analogue Scale) of pre and post electrotherapy treatments, resulting in significant reductions in self-reported pain (p-value = 0.0002). Three of the four patients continued using the home therapy device long-term as determined by a post-analysis questionnaire. This small case-series demonstrated notably positive outcomes, suggesting consideration of home use of HWDS for safe, non-pharmacological and non-addictive treatment of severe pain.
Liver Injury and Metabolic Dysregulation in Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmoides) after Ammonia Exposure
Authors: Zou Jiahong , Hu Peng , Wang Mengya , Chen Zhenwei , Wang Huan , Guo Xiaolong , Gao Jian , Wang Qingchao
Published: February 2023

Elevated environmental ammonia leads to respiratory disorders and metabolic dysfunction in most fish species, and the majority of research has concentrated on fish behavior and gill function. Prior studies have rarely shown the molecular mechanism of the largemouth bass hepatic response to ammonia loading. In this experiment, 120 largemouth bass were exposed to total ammonia nitrogen of 0 mg/L or 13 mg/L for 3 and 7 days, respectively. Histological study indicated that ammonia exposure severely damaged fish liver structure, accompanied by increased serum alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase activity. RT-qPCR results showed that ammonia exposure down-regulated the expression of genes involved in glycogen metabolism, tricarboxylic acid cycle, lipid metabolism, and urea cycle pathways, whereas it up-regulated the expression of genes involved in gluconeogenesis and glutamine synthesis pathways. Thus, ammonia was mainly converted to glutamine in the largemouth bass liver during ammonia stress, which was rarely further used for urea synthesis. Additionally, transcriptome results showed that ammonia exposure also led to the up-regulation of the oxidative phosphorylation pathway and down-regulation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway in the liver of largemouth bass. It is possible that the energy supply of oxidative phosphorylation in the largemouth bass liver was increased during ammonia exposure, which was mediated by the MAPK signaling pathway.
Studies of Performance of Cs2TiI6−XBrX (Where x = 0 to 6)-Based Mixed Halide Perovskite Solar Cell with CdS Electron Transport Layer
Authors: Chakraborty Kunal , Medikondu Nageswara Rao , Duraisamy Kumutha , Soliman Naglaa F. , El-Shafai Walid , Lavadiya Sunil , Paul Samrat , Das Sudipta
Published: February 2023

The present research work represents the numerical study of the device performance of a lead-free Cs2TiI6−XBrX-based mixed halide perovskite solar cell (PSC), where x = 1 to 5. The open circuit voltage (VOC) and short circuit current (JSC) in a generic TCO/electron transport layer (ETL)/absorbing layer/hole transfer layer (HTL) structure are the key parameters for analyzing the device performance. The entire simulation was conducted by a SCAPS-1D (solar cell capacitance simulator- one dimensional) simulator. An alternative FTO/CdS/Cs2TiI6−XBrX/CuSCN/Ag solar cell architecture has been used and resulted in an optimized absorbing layer thickness at 0.5 µm thickness for the Cs2TiBr6, Cs2TiI1Br5, Cs2TiI2Br4, Cs2TiI3Br3 and Cs2TiI4Br2 absorbing materials and at 1.0 µm and 0.4 µm thickness for the Cs2TiI5Br1 and Cs2TiI6 absorbing materials. The device temperature was optimized at 40 °C for the Cs2TiBr6, Cs2TiI1Br5 and Cs2TiI2Br4 absorbing layers and at 20 °C for the Cs2TiI3Br3, Cs2TiI4Br2, Cs2TiI5Br1 and Cs2TiI6 absorbing layers. The defect density was optimized at 1010 (cm−3) for all the active layers.
Isotope Geochemistry of the Heihaibei Gold Deposit within the Kunlun River Area in the Eastern Kunlun Orogen in Northwest China and Its Metallogenic Implications
Authors: Lu Hai-Feng , Pan Tong , Jiao He , Ding Qing-Feng , Zhou Xuan , Wu Rui-Zhe
Published: February 2023

The Heihaibei gold deposit is located in the Eastern Kunlun Orogen in Northwest China. The gold mineralization here occurs predominantly in quartz veins within faulted granite zones. The sulfide mineral assemblage is dominated by pyrite and arsenopyrite, with minor chalcopyrite, galena, sphalerite, tetrahedrite, and micro-native gold. Weak alterations in Heihaibei granites include silicification and sericitization, with minor chloritization and carbonatization. The measured δDH2O and δ18Oquartz values of quartz in auriferous quartz veins range from −104.2‰ to −81.1‰ and +9.2‰ to +13.9‰, respectively. The δ34S values of sulfides in auriferous quartz veins range from +7.60‰ to +8.65‰, and the lead isotope compositions of sulfides in ores range from 18.7219 to 19.0007 for 206Pb/204Pb, 15.6959 to 15.7062 for 207Pb/204Pb, and 37.7359 to 38.8055 for 208Pb/204Pb. The Pb isotope compositions of potassic feldspars from Heihaibei granites vary from 18.3532 to 19.4864 for 206Pb/204Pb, 15.6475 to 15.6812 for 207Pb/204Pb, and 37.1750 to 38.4598 for 208Pb/204Pb. Collectively, the isotope (H, O, S, and Pb) geochemistry suggests that the ore-forming fluid was a special metamorphic water evolved from the deep slab-derived fluids, and the sulfur and lead were predominantly sourced from such metamorphic fluids, and from the deep parts of the Heihaibei granites. Therefore, the Heihaibei gold deposit can be classified as an orogenic gold deposit, which is closely associated with the subduction of the Paleo-Tethys oceanic plate, and even the final closure of this ocean by the Later Triassic.
Fracture Fractal and Energy Transfer Characteristics of Deep-Mine Marble under an Impact Load
Authors: Wang Jianguo , Lei Lugang , Liu Yang , Yang Yang , Huang Yonghui
Published: February 2023

With changes in mining depth, the dynamic mechanical characteristics of the same type of rock also change, so that the blasting excavation process must be constantly adjusted and optimized to meet the requirements of safe and efficient mining. To study the energy evolution law and fractal characteristics of deep marble during the destruction process, dynamic impact tests under different strain rates were carried out on a deep marble sample using the three-axis dynamic combination Hopkinson pressure bar system. The experimental results show that the larger the incident energy is, the more energy is transmitted. The proportion of absorbed energy does not increase with the increase in the incident energy. Only 30%–38% of the incident energy is absorbed by the impacted rock. With an increase in the strain rate, the energy consumption density gradually increases, the fragmentation degree is intensified, the fractal dimension gradually increases, and the failure mode changes from compression–shear failure to crushing failure.
Optimization of Ciprofloxacin Adsorption on Clinoptilolite-Based Adsorbents Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Kalebić Barbara , Bafti Arijeta , Cajner Hrvoje , Marciuš Marijan , Matijašić Gordana , Ćurković Lidija
Published: February 2023

The adsorption of the antibiotic ciprofloxacin (CIP) from water solution by natural zeolite–clinoptilolite (CLI), magnetic clinoptilolite (MAG-CLI), and graphene oxide coated magnetic clinoptilolite (GO-MAG-CLI) was investigated. The novel approach of an environmentally friendly and cost-effective microwave-assisted method was applied for the magnetic composite synthesis. Detailed characterization of the prepared composites was achieved. In order to investigate the effect of the initial CIP concentration, pH, temperature, contact time, and type of adsorbent on the adsorption efficiency of CIP, and to obtain the optimal conditions for CIP removal, the response surface methodology central composite factorial design (RSM-CCF) was applied. The results obtained by the RSM-CCF showed that among the studied adsorbents, GO-MAG-CLI had the highest adsorption capacity for CIP, achieved for the initial concentration of 48.47 mg dm−3 at a pH of 5 and 24.78 °C after 19.20 min of contact time. The adsorption kinetics studied for the initial CIP concentration range of 15–50 mg dm−3 followed Lagergren’s pseudo-second-order model, and the Langmuir isotherm was the most suitable one to describe the CIP adsorption onto GO-MAG-CLI.
Is a Genetic Diathesis for Poor Nutrition Becoming More Crucial Due to the Uniformity of COVID Social Stress?
Authors: DeSoto M. Catherine
Published: February 2023

The important role of nutrition in proper neural functioning and mental health has seen wider acceptance, but is still sadly under recognized given the existent body of research. This Special Issue was designed to unite authoritative information on this topic in one volume. This editorial provides an overview of the issue, and suggests that the combination of social isolation, lack of exercise, and remaining indoors that overtook industrialized societies during 2020 are specific factors expected to change the Gene × Environment interactions for anxiety and depression. Importantly, the recent environmental changes may make biological diatheses for nutritional deficiencies even more problematic. The concept of G × E interaction is dissected to clarify a non-intuitive scenario: heritability may increase, even when a sharp increase in prevalence is entirely the result of an environmental change (e.g., COVID anxiety and isolation). Key research is highlighted, specific genetic examples are noted, and theoretical implications regarding natural selection are discussed.
Nitrogen Containing Heterocycles as Anticancer Agents: A Medicinal Chemistry Perspective
Authors: Kumar Adarsh , Singh Ankit Kumar , Singh Harshwardhan , Vijayan Veena , Kumar Deepak , Naik Jashwanth , Thareja Suresh , Yadav Jagat Pal , Pathak Prateek , Grishina Maria , Verma Amita , Khalilullah Habibullah , Jaremko Mariusz , Emwas Abdul-Hamid , Kumar Pradeep
Published: February 2023

Cancer is one of the major healthcare challenges across the globe. Several anticancer drugs are available on the market but they either lack specificity or have poor safety, severe side effects, and suffer from resistance. So, there is a dire need to develop safer and target-specific anticancer drugs. More than 85% of all physiologically active pharmaceuticals are heterocycles or contain at least one heteroatom. Nitrogen heterocycles constituting the most common heterocyclic framework. In this study, we have compiled the FDA approved heterocyclic drugs with nitrogen atoms and their pharmacological properties. Moreover, we have reported nitrogen containing heterocycles, including pyrimidine, quinolone, carbazole, pyridine, imidazole, benzimidazole, triazole, β-lactam, indole, pyrazole, quinazoline, quinoxaline, isatin, pyrrolo-benzodiazepines, and pyrido[2,3-d]pyrimidines, which are used in the treatment of different types of cancer, concurrently covering the biochemical mechanisms of action and cellular targets.
Recent Advances in Using Natural Antibacterial Additives in Bioactive Wound Dressings
Authors: Firoozbahr Meysam , Kingshott Peter , Palombo Enzo A. , Zaferanloo Bita
Published: February 2023

Wound care is a global health issue with a financial burden of up to US $96.8 billion annually in the USA alone. Chronic non-healing wounds which show delayed and incomplete healing are especially problematic. Although there are more than 3000 dressing types in the wound management market, new developments in more efficient wound dressings will require innovative approaches such as embedding antibacterial additives into wound-dressing materials. The lack of novel antibacterial agents and the misuse of current antibiotics have caused an increase in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) which is estimated to cause 10 million deaths by 2050 worldwide. These ongoing challenges clearly indicate an urgent need for developing new antibacterial additives in wound dressings targeting microbial pathogens. Natural products and their derivatives have long been a significant source of pharmaceuticals against AMR. Scrutinising the data of newly approved drugs has identified plants as one of the biggest and most important sources in the development of novel antibacterial drugs. Some of the plant-based antibacterial additives, such as essential oils and plant extracts, have been previously used in wound dressings; however, there is another source of plant-derived antibacterial additives, i.e., those produced by symbiotic endophytic fungi, that show great potential in wound dressing applications. Endophytes represent a novel, natural, and sustainable source of bioactive compounds for therapeutic applications, including as efficient antibacterial additives for chronic wound dressings. This review examines and appraises recent developments in bioactive wound dressings that incorporate natural products as antibacterial agents as well as advances in endophyte research that show great potential in treating chronic wounds.
Effects of Tocilizumab on Inflammation and Iron Metabolism in Critically Ill Patients with COVID-19
Authors: Szabo Robert , Petrișor Cristina , Bodolea Constantin , Dobre Vlad , Tranca Sebastian , Clichici Simona , Szabo Iulia , Melinte Razvan Marian , Mocan Teodora
Published: February 2023

COVID-19 produces cytokine-mediated persistent inflammation and is associated with elevated iron stores and low circulating iron. It is believed that central to the pathophysiological mechanism is interleukin 6 and hepcidin. A state of iron overload, termed hyperferritinemia, and inflammatory anemia take place. Both conditions are linked to a worse result in critically ill patients. Blocking the interleukin 6—hepcidin pathway with Tocilizumab could present favorable outcomes. The aim of this study was to evaluate if Tocilizumab influences survival, the occurrence of sepsis, anemia and transfusions in critically ill patients suffering from COVID-19. This prospective observational study focused on levels of interleukin 6, hepcidin and blood iron parameters in patients treated with Tocilizumab. Data were compared before and after therapy as well as between treated and control groups. Results indicate that there is no difference in terms of survival nor in the rate of anemia or sepsis occurrence. Hepcidin was elevated and anemia ensued after treatment, which could indicate alternative pathways. In conclusion, when the classic interleukin 6—hepcidin pathway is blocked, inflammation seems to use alternative routes. Further understanding of these pathways is required and new pharmacological therapies need to be developed to treat persistent inflammation.
Naxitamab Activity in Neuroblastoma Cells Is Enhanced by Nanofenretinide and Nanospermidine
Authors: Galassi Lucrezia , Rossi Martina , Lodeserto Pietro , Lenzi Monia , Borsetti Francesca , Voltattorni Manuela , Farruggia Giovanna , Blasi Paolo , Orienti Isabella
Published: February 2023

Neuroblastoma cells highly express the disialoganglioside GD2, a tumor-associated carbohydrate antigen, which is also expressed in neurons, skin melanocytes, and peripheral nerve fibers. Immunotherapy with monoclonal anti-GD2 antibodies has a proven efficacy in clinical trials and is included in the standard treatment for children with high-risk neuroblastoma. However, the strong neuro-toxicity associated with anti-GD2 antibodies administration has hindered, until now, the possibility for dose-escalation and protracted use, thus restraining their therapeutic potential. Strategies to increase the efficacy of anti-GD2 antibodies are actively sought, with the aim to enable chronic treatments that could eradicate minimal residual disease and subsequent relapses, often occurring after treatment. Here, we report that Nanofenretinide and Nanospermidine improved the expression of GD2 in neuroblastoma cells (CHP-134) and provided different effects in combination with the anti-GD2 antibody naxitamab. In particular, Nanofenretinide significantly increased the cytotoxic effect of naxitamab while Nanospermidine inhibited cell motility at extents proportional to naxitamab concentration. In neuroblastoma cells characterized by a low and heterogeneous basal expression of GD2, such as SH-SY5Y, which may represent the cell heterogeneity in tumors after chemotherapy, both Nanofenretinide and Nanospermidine increased GD2 expression in approximately 50% of cells, thus shifting the tumor population towards improved sensitivity to anti-GD2 antibodies.
Size-Controlled Preparation of Docetaxel- and Curcumin-Loaded Nanoemulsions for Potential Pulmonary Delivery
Authors: Asmawi Azren Aida , Salim Norazlinaliza , Abdulmalek Emilia , Abdul Rahman Mohd Basyaruddin
Published: February 2023

Lung cancer is one of the deadliest pulmonary diseases in the world. Although docetaxel (DTX) has exhibited superior efficacy in lung cancer treatment, it has demonstrated numerous adverse effects and poor bioavailability. The natural product extract, curcumin (CCM), has reportedly reduced toxicity and synergistically improved DTX bioavailability. Nonetheless, the hydrophobic nature of DTX and CCM limits their clinical use. Nanoemulsion pulmonary delivery of DTX and CCM has demonstrated potential as a drug carrier to alleviate these drawbacks. The controlled preparation of inhalable DTX- and CCM-loaded nanoemulsions within the 100 to 200 nm range was explored in this study. A response surface methodology (RSM) based on a central composite design (CCD) was utilized to fabricate the desired size of the nanoemulsion under optimized conditions. Different process parameters were employed to control the size of the nanoemulsions procured through a high-energy emulsification technique. The size of the resultant nanoemulsions decreased with increasing energy input. The actual response according to the targeted sizes for DTX- and CCM-loaded nanoemulsion models exhibited excellent agreement with the predicted value at below 5% residual standard error under optimized conditions. The nanoemulsion of 100 nm particle size demonstrated better membrane permeability than their larger counterparts. Moreover, the formulations documented favorable physicochemical and aerodynamic pulmonary delivery properties and reduced toxicity in human lung fibroblast (MRC-5) cells. Hence, this tunable size of nanoemulsions could be a suitable alternative drug delivery for pulmonary diseases with increased local lung concentration.
Process-Structure Coupled Simulation of Additive Manufactured Components
Authors: Ferrano Fabian , Wachter Tizian , Fateri Miranda , Schmiedt Michael
Published: February 2023

In this work, the influence of extrusion infill angles on the mechanical properties of 3D printed (Fused Filament Fabrication, FFF) test specimens are investigated, considering the real geometry of the components. Therefore, various polylactide (PLA) specimens with different infill angles are manufactured, scanned by Computed Tomography (CT) and further investigated by mechanical testing using an optical measuring system. This allows the directional dependence and the elastoplastic behavior of the material to be demonstrated. It was found that the real geometry behavior differs significantly from the model. In addition to the tests Finite Element Method (FEM) simulations of the scanned components are carried out in order to provide a prediction of the mechanical properties of FFF-printed parts for component manufacturers. The conducted simulations have shown that the geometric deviation leads to an increase in stiffness, a higher ultimate tensile strength and strain at failure. The main objective of this work is to evaluate the stiffness and strength of FFF-printed components using FEM with an economically justifiable testing effort. This includes not only the evaluation of the directional dependence, considering the real geometry of the components, but also the evaluation of a suitable strength criterion. The criterion of maximum principal strain has proved to be suitable.
Research Progress on the Improvement of Flame Retardancy, Hydrophobicity, and Antibacterial Properties of Wood Surfaces
Authors: Jian Hao , Liang Yuqing , Deng Chao , Xu Junxian , Liu Yang , Shi Junyou , Wen Mingyu , Park Hee-Jun
Published: February 2023

Wood-based materials are multifunctional green and environmentally friendly natural construction materials, and are widely used in decorative building materials. For this reason, a lot of research has been carried out to develop new and innovative wood surface improvements and make wood more appealing through features such as fire-retardancy, hydrophobicity, and antibacterial properties. To improve the performance of wood, more and more attention is being paid to the functioning of the surface. Understanding and mastering technology to improve the surface functionality of wood opens up new possibilities for developing multifunctional and high-performance materials. Examples of these techniques are ion crosslinking modification and coating modification. Researchers have been trying to make wooden surfaces more practical for the past century. This study has gradually gained popularity in the field of wood material science over the last 10 years. This paper provides an experimental reference for research on wood surface functionalization and summarizes the most current advancements in hydrophobic, antibacterial, and flame-retardant research on wood surfaces.
Effect of Styrene-Maleic Anhydride Copolymer on Properties of PBST/PLA Blends
Authors: Zhang Qing , Gao Yongguang , Luo Baojing , Cui Yan , Shu Shili , Chen Wei , Wang Lei
Published: February 2023

Poly(butylene succinate-butylene terephthalate) (PBST) and polylactic acid (PLA) are both biodegradable polymeric materials. PBST has good ductility but low strength, while PLA exhibits high strength but poor toughness. Based on the complementary mechanical properties of the two polymers, PBST/PLA blends were prepared by melt blending in the mixing chamber of a torque rheometer using styrene-maleic anhydride copolymer (PSMA) as a compatibilizer. The effects of different contents of PSMA on the crystalline properties, thermal properties, mechanical properties, rheological behavior, and morphology of PBST/PLA blends were investigated. The results showed that the addition of PSMA improved the compatibility between PBST and PLA. When the amount of PSMA is 3–4 wt%, the comprehensive mechanical properties of the blends are optimal, and the tensile strength was increased by 61.7% compared with the binary blend without PSMA. Additionally, rheological tests illustrated that the blends exhibited a typical shear-thinning behavior and belonged to pseudoplastic non-Newtonian fluids.