bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tension between Journalistic and Entertainment Values in Live Soccer TV Commentary: The Commentator’s Perspective
Authors: Kunert Jessica , Kuni Peer
Published: May 2023

This article examines the tension between journalistic and entertainment values in live soccer TV commentary from the perspective of German commentators. We situate journalistic and entertainment values within the commentators’ wider understanding of their roles as sports journalists and commentators, looking at a specific type of sports journalist who has different responsibilities from the general sports reporter. We asked how soccer commentators assess the role of journalistic and entertainment values in their work, and what constraints they face, such as how the perceived expectations of their employer affect this assessment. We interviewed 28 TV commentators, one radio commentator, and one expert working for relevant German TV channels and streaming platforms, such as ZDF, Sky, and DAZN. While all interviewees see themselves as companions telling the story of the match, most commentators in the sample value journalistic values over entertainment values, a surprising finding in the hyper-commercialized world of sports television. Well-founded journalistic expertise and soccer knowledge are considered most important. However, this assessment depends on factors such as the broadcaster’s guidelines and the nature of the match. In summary, the role of the commentator is either an ‘objective mediator’ or an ‘emotional entertainer’, but this is a balancing act.
Surviving Black Swans III: Timing US Sector Funds
Authors: Topiwala Pankaj
Published: May 2023

The typical small investor makes on average about 5% a year in investment gains, just half of what the market does. Moreover, most investment funds also underperform compared to the broader market. In two previous papers, we explored how a specific and simple approach to algorithmic trading can help both types of investors achieve strong results. For concreteness, we focused attention on investing in a single variable, in our case, a major US-based index such as SPX and IXIC, individually. For illustrative purposes, we also considered some highly traded tech stock examples. In this paper, we extend our work to study the US sector funds, and for the first time in our series, we also consider trading multiple variables at a time to see how that may differ from our single-variable investment strategy. To simplify matters, we consider an initial equal weighted portfolio of several sector funds, selected randomly without any analysis, and assume that each is traded independently. To simplify further, we do no rebalancing in our study, though that is an essential part of money management according to modern portfolio theory. We nevertheless obtain interesting and informative results. We can typically improve on the performance of most sector funds compared to buy-and-hold (hereafter referred to as BnH). Moreover, as an example of portfolio growth, a portfolio of five equal weighted sector funds in BnH achieves 6.5× growth over 20 years (ending in March 2023), whereas our approach achieves 12.4× growth—nearly 2× better, at roughly half the maximum drawdown. That is a strong win for both professional and home investors.
Application of RMMF-Based GIS Model for Soil Erosion Assessment in Andaman Ecosystem
Authors: Adamala Sirisha , Velmurugan Ayyam , Kumari Nikul , Subramani T. , Swarnam T. P. , Damodaran V. , Srivastava Ankur
Published: May 2023

Water erosion is one of the major land degradation problems all over the globe, and its accurate quantification in different land use contexts is required in order to propose suitable conservation measures and curtail related hazards. In the Andaman and Nicobar (A&N) Islands, the land use changes due to faster urbanization and deforestation practices have led to accelerated erosion at many points around the inhabited Islands. Moreover, agricultural land uses in the A&N Islands are vulnerable to severe soil erosion, mainly due to cultivation practices along the steep slopes and mono-cropping culture. A study was conducted by establishing runoff plots in areas with different land uses to measure soil and nutrient losses and to estimate soil erosion using a semi-process-based soil erosion model, i.e., Revised Morgan Morgan and Finney (RMMF). The RMMF model was calibrated using primary data from runoff plots for the years 2019–21, validated for the year 2022, and applied in a Geographical Information System (GIS) to estimate soil erosion spatially over the Andaman ecosystem. The RMMF model simulated soil erosion during validation with a coefficient determination (R2) greater than 0.87 as compared to measured soil erosion from the runoff plots. The study revealed that annual N, P, and K losses of 41–81%, 42–95%, and 7–23%, respectively, due to runoff from various land uses. The land use land classification analysis of the Andaman Islands revealed that about 88% of the total geographical area is under the forest and mangrove land uses, which exhibited very slight soil erosion of <5 t/ha. This 88% of forest and mangrove areas requires suitable conservation measures such as afforestation and rehabilitation/restoration of mangroves. Moreover, 6% of cultivated areas need terracing, bunding, intercropping, etc., at the highest priority in order to conserve a sustainable Andaman ecosystem. On average, the annual soil loss from the Andaman Islands is 3.13 t/ha. About 6% of the study area exceeds the soil tolerance limit of 2.5–12.5 t/ha/year, which needs suitable soil and water conservation measures at the lowest priority due to economic implications.
Object- Versus Pixel-Based Unsupervised Fire Burn Scar Mapping under Different Biogeographical Conditions in Europe
Authors: Milczarek Marta , Aleksandrowicz Sebastian , Kita Afroditi , Chadoulis Rizos-Theodoros , Manakos Ioannis , Woźniak Edyta
Published: May 2023

Wildfire detection and mapping is crucial for managing natural resources and preventing further environmental damage. In this study, we compared two methods of mapping burn scars using Sentinel-2 satellite imagery, a pixel-based approach and an object-based approach, at test sites located in various climatic zones with diverse land cover synthesis. The study aimed to determine the advantages and limitations of each method in terms of accuracy and precision in detecting burn scars. The results showed that both methods could detect burn scars with high accuracy, but with some limitations. The F1 score was in the range of 0.64–0.89 for the object-based approach, and 0.58–0.90 for the pixel-based approach. The pixel-based method produced a more precise delineation of the burnt area, but it was only suitable for detecting burn scars in a limited area of interest. The object-based method, on the other hand, was able to detect burn scars over a larger area accurately but with some commission errors. The results of both methods were also compared to the Copernicus Emergency Management Service (CEMS) rapid mapping product.
Influences of Cold Rolling and Aging on Microstructure and Property of CuCrSn Alloy
Authors: Chen Tao , Zhang Qingke , Liu Feng , Feng Xiaolong , Xu Cheng , Song Zhenlun
Published: May 2023

The CuCrSn alloy is promising as a high-strength and high-conductivity Cu alloy due to its relatively low smelting requirement. However, thus far investigations into the CuCrSn alloy are still quite lacking. In this study, the microstructure and properties of Cu-0.20Cr-0.25Sn (wt%) alloy specimens prepared under different rolling and aging combinations were comprehensively characterized, in order to reveal the effects of cold rolling and aging on properties of the CuCrSn. The results show that increasing the aging temperature from 400 °C to 450 °C can noticeably accelerate precipitation, and cold rolling before aging significantly increases its microhardness and promotes precipitation However, the deformation hardening is eliminated during the aging process, making the microhardness decrease monotonically when the aging temperature and the cold rolling ratio before aging are high. Performing cold rolling after aging can maximize precipitation strengthening and deformation strengthening, and the adverse impact on its conductivity is not serious. A tensile strength of 506.5 MPa and a conductivity of 70.33% IACS were obtained by such a treatment, whereas only the elongation decreases a little. Different strength-conductivity combinations of the CuCrSn alloy can be achieved through appropriate design of the aging and post-aging cold rolling conditions.
Investigation on Flexural Fracture Behaviour of Bolted Spherical Joints with Crack Propagation in Screw Threads
Authors: Shi Qinghong , Zhou Wenfeng , You Xiang , Liu Yinggai , Wang Zhiyu , Huang Qunyi
Published: May 2023

Bolted spherical joints, due to their prominent merits in installation, have been widely used in modern spatial structures. Despite significant research, there is a lack of understanding of their flexural fracture behaviour, which is important for the catastrophe prevention of the whole structure. Given the recent development to fill this knowledge gap, it is the objective of this paper to experimentally investigate the flexural bending capacity of the overall fracture section featured by a heightened neutral axis and fracture behaviour related to variable crack depth in screw threads. Accordingly, two full-scale bolted spherical joints with different bolt diameters were evaluated under three-point bending. The fracture behaviour of bolted spherical joints is first revealed with respect to typical stress distribution and fracture mode. A new theoretical flexural bending capacity expression for the fracture section with a heightened neutral axis is proposed and validated. A numerical model is then developed to estimate the stress amplification and stress intensity factors related to the crack opening (mode-I) fracture for the screw threads of these joints. The model is validated against the theoretical solutions of the thread-tooth-root model. The maximum stress of the screw thread is shown to take place at the same location as the test bolted sphere, while its magnitude can be greatly reduced with an increased thread root radius and flank angle. Finally, different design variants related to threads that have influences on the SIFs are compared, and the moderate steepness of the flank thread has been found to be efficient in reducing the joint fracture. The research findings could thus be beneficial for further improving the fracture resistance of bolted spherical joints.
Multi-Hazard-Resistant Behavior of CFRP- and Polyurea-Retrofitted Reinforced Concrete Two-Column Piers under Combined Collision–Blast Loading
Authors: Fang Chen , Yosef Tewodros Y. , Linzell Daniel G.
Published: May 2023

This study investigated the multi-hazard resistance of highway bridge piers retrofitted with carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) and polyurea coating against the combined collision–blast loads and evaluated their effectiveness. Detailed finite element models of CFRP- and polyurea-retrofitted dual-column piers that considered the blast-wave–structure interactions and the soil pile dynamics were developed using LS-DYNA to simulate the combined effects of a medium-size truck collision and close-in blast. Numerical simulations were conducted to examine the dynamic response of bare and retrofitted piers under different levels of demands. The numerical results indicated that using CFRP wrapping or polyurea coating effectively mitigated the combined collision and blast effects and increased the pier’s resistance. Parametric studies were performed to identify an in situ retrofit scheme to control the parameters and determine the optimal schemes for the dual-column piers. For the parameters that were studied, the results showed that retrofitting at half the height of both columns at the base was identified as an optimal scheme to improve the multi-hazard resistance of the bridge pier.
Mixed-Cation Halide Perovskite Doped with Rb+ for Highly Efficient Photodetector
Authors: Wu Wei , Liu Yang , Yao Jianxi , Ouyang Xiaoping
Published: May 2023

Photodetectors are widely employed as fundamental devices in optical communication, automatic control, image sensors, night vision, missile guidance, and many other industrial or military fields. Mixed-cation perovskites have emerged as promising optoelectronic materials for application in photodetectors due to their superior compositional flexibility and photovoltaic performance. However, their application involves obstacles such as phase segregation and poor-quality crystallization, which introduce defects in perovskite films and adversely affect devices’ optoelectronic performance. The application prospects of mixed-cation perovskite technology are significantly constrained by these challenges. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate strategies that combine crystallinity control and defect passivation to obtain high-quality thin films. In this study, we incorporated different Rb+ ratios in triple-cation (CsMAFA) perovskite precursor solutions and studied their effects on crystal growth. Our results show that a small amount of Rb+ was enough to induce the crystallization of the α-FAPbI3 phase and suppress the formation of the yellow non-photoactive phase; the grain size increased, and the product of the carrier mobility and the lifetime (μτ) improved. As a result, the fabricated photodetector exhibited a broad photo-response region, from ultraviolet to near-infrared, with maximum responsivity (R) up to 11.8 mA W−1 and excellent detectivity (D*) values up to 5.33 × 1011 Jones. This work provides a feasible strategy to improve photodetectors’ performance via additive engineering.
Tungsten and Copper (II) Oxide Mixtures as Gasless Time Delay Compositions for Mining Detonators
Authors: Gerlich Marcin , Hara Marcin , Trzciński Waldemar A.
Published: May 2023

The widespread use of pyrotechnic compositions in time delay detonators is the reason for research aimed at expanding knowledge of the combustion properties of new pyrotechnic mixtures, whose components react with each other in the solid or liquid state. Such a method of combustion would make the rate of combustion independent of the pressure inside the detonator. This paper presents the effect of the parameters of W/CuO mixtures on their properties of combustion. As this composition has not been the subject of previous research and is not described in the literature, the basic parameters, such as the burning rate and the heat of combustion, were determined. In order to determine the reaction mechanism, a thermal analysis was performed, and the combustion products were determined using the XRD technique. Depending on the quantitative composition and density of the mixture, the burning rates were between 4.1–6.0 mm/s and the heat of combustion in the range of 475–835 J/g was measured. The gas-free combustion mode of the chosen mixture was proved using DTA and XRD. Determination of the qualitative composition of the combustion products and the heat of combustion allowed estimation of the adiabatic combustion temperature.
Microstructure, Mechanical Properties and Oxidation Resistance of Nb-Si Based Ultrahigh-Temperature Alloys Prepared by Hot Press Sintering
Authors: Zhang Lijing , Guan Ping , Guo Xiping
Published: May 2023

Nb-Si based ultrahigh-temperature alloys with the composition of Nb-22Ti-15Si-5Cr-3Al (atomic percentage, at. %) were prepared by hot press sintering (HPS) at 1250, 1350, 1400, 1450 and 1500 °C. The effects of HPS temperatures on the microstructure, room temperature fracture toughness, hardness and isothermal oxidation behavior of the alloys were investigated. The results showed that the microstructures of the alloys prepared by HPS at different temperatures were composed of Nbss, βTiss and γ(Nb,X)5Si3 phases. When the HPS temperature was 1450 °C, the microstructure was fine and nearly equiaxed. When the HPS temperature was lower than 1450 °C, the supersaturated Nbss with insufficient diffusion reaction still existed. When the HPS temperature exceeded 1450 °C, the microstructure coarsened obviously. Both the room temperature fracture toughness and Vickers hardness of the alloys prepared by HPS at 1450 °C were the highest. The alloy prepared by HPS at 1450 °C exhibited the lowest mass gain upon oxidation at 1250 °C for 20 h. The oxide film was mainly composed of Nb2O5, TiNb2O7, TiO2 and a small amount of amorphous silicate. The formation mechanism of oxide film is concluded as follows: TiO2 forms by the preferential reaction of βTiss and O in the alloy; after that, a stable oxide film composed of TiO2 and Nb2O5 forms; then, TiNb2O7 is formed by the reaction of TiO2 and Nb2O5.
Insights into the Modification of Carbonous Felt as an Electrode for Vanadium Redox Flow Batteries
Authors: Ding Cong , Shen Zhefei , Zhu Ying , Cheng Yuanhui
Published: May 2023

The vanadium redox flow battery (VRFB) has been regarded as one of the best potential stationary electrochemical storage systems for its design flexibility, long cycle life, high efficiency, and high safety; it is usually utilized to resolve the fluctuations and intermittent nature of renewable energy sources. As one of the critical components of VRFBs to provide the reaction sites for redox couples, an ideal electrode should possess excellent chemical and electrochemical stability, conductivity, and a low price, as well as good reaction kinetics, hydrophilicity, and electrochemical activity, in order to satisfy the requirements for high-performance VRFBs. However, the most commonly used electrode material, a carbonous felt electrode, such as graphite felt (GF) or carbon felt (CF), suffers from relatively inferior kinetic reversibility and poor catalytic activity toward the V2+/V3+ and VO2+/VO2+ redox couples, limiting the operation of VRFBs at low current density. Therefore, modified carbon substrates have been extensively investigated to improve vanadium redox reactions. Here, we give a brief review of recent progress in the modification methods of carbonous felt electrodes, such as surface treatment, the deposition of low-cost metal oxides, the doping of nonmetal elements, and complexation with nanostructured carbon materials. Thus, we give new insights into the relationships between the structure and the electrochemical performance, and provide some perspectives for the future development of VRFBs. Through a comprehensive analysis, it is found that the increase in the surface area and active sites are two decisive factors that enhance the performance of carbonous felt electrodes. Based on the varied structural and electrochemical characterizations, the relationship between the surface nature and electrochemical activity, as well as the mechanism of the modified carbon felt electrodes, is also discussed.
Three-Dimensional Printing of Large Ceramic Products and Process Simulation
Authors: Lin Tao , Zhao Zhihao , Wang Tao , Pan Ye-Tang
Published: May 2023

Ceramic 3D printing is a promising technology that overcomes the limitations of traditional ceramic molding. It offers advantages such as refined models, reduced mold manufacturing costs, simplified processes, and automatic operation, which have attracted a growing number of researchers. However, current research tends to focus more on the molding process and print molding quality rather than exploring printing parameters in detail. In this study, we successfully prepared a large-size ceramic blank using screw extrusion stacking printing technology. Subsequent glazing and sintering processes were used to create complex ceramic handicrafts. Additionally, we used modeling and simulation technology to explore the fluid model printed by the printing nozzle at different flow rates. We adjusted two core parameters that affect the printing speed separately: three feed rates were set to be 0.001 m/s, 0.005 m/s, and 0.010 m/s, and three screw speeds were set to be 0.5 r/s, 1.5 r/s, and 2.5 r/s. Through a comparative analysis, we were able to simulate the printing exit speed, which ranged from 0.0751 m/s to 0.6828 m/s. It is evident that these two parameters have a significant impact on the printing exit speed. Our findings show that the extrusion velocity of clay is approximately 700 times faster than the inlet velocity at an inlet velocity of 0.001–0.010 m/s. Furthermore, the screw speed is influenced by the inlet velocity. Overall, our study sheds light on the importance of exploring printing parameters in ceramic 3D printing. By gaining a deeper understanding of the printing process, we can optimize printing parameters and further improve the quality of ceramic 3D printing.
Impact of Doping on Cross-Sectional Stress Assessment of 3C-SiC/Si Heteroepitaxy
Authors: Scuderi Viviana , Zielinski Marcin , La Via Francesco
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we used micro-Raman spectroscopy in cross-section to investigate the effect of different doping on the distribution of stress in the silicon substrate and the grown 3C-SiC film. The 3C-SiC films with a thickness up to 10 μm were grown on Si (100) substrates in a horizontal hot-wall chemical vapor deposition (CVD) reactor. To quantify the influence of doping on the stress distribution, samples were non-intentionally doped (NID, dopant incorporation below 1016 cm−3), strongly n-type doped ([N] > 1019 cm−3), or strongly p-type doped ([Al] > 1019 cm−3). Sample NID was also grown on Si (111). In silicon (100), we observed that the stress at the interface is always compressive. In 3C-SiC, instead, we observed that the stress at the interface is always tensile and remains so in the first 4 µm. In the remaining 6 µm, the type of stress varies according to the doping. In particular, for 10 μm thick samples, the presence of an n-doped layer at the interface maximizes the stress in the silicon (~700 MPa) and in the 3C-SiC film (~250 MPa). In the presence of films grown on Si(111), 3C-SiC shows a compressive stress at the interface and then immediately becomes tensile following an oscillating trend with an average value of 412 MPa.
The Conundrum of Dedifferentiation in a Liposarcoma at a Peculiar Location: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Ciongariu Ana-Maria , Dumitru Adrian-Vasile , Cîrstoiu Cătălin , Crețu Bogdan , Sajin Maria , Țăpoi Dana-Antonia , Ciobănoiu Aminia-Diana , Bejenariu Adrian , Marin Andrei , Costache Mariana
Published: May 2023

Dedifferentiated liposarcoma of the deep soft tissue of the lower extremities is an infrequent finding. Myxoid liposarcoma is considered the most common soft tissue neoplasia arising in this anatomic region. Divergent differentiation usually occurs within well-differentiated liposarcoma and is exceedingly rare in a myxoid liposarcoma. We report a 32-year-old man who developed a dedifferentiated liposarcoma of the thigh on the background of a pre-existing myxoid liposarcoma. The gross examination of the surgical specimen showed a 11/7/2 cm tumour mass with solid tan-grey areas and focal myxoid degeneration. The microscopic examination revealed a malignant lipogenic proliferation, containing round cells with hyperchromatic nuclei and atypical lipoblasts, confined to the basophilic stroma with a myxoid aspect. Abrupt transition towards a hypercellular, non-lipogenic area consisting of highly pleomorphic spindle cells with atypical mitotic figures was also noted. Immunohistochemical staining was performed. Tumour cells in the lipogenic area were intensely positive for S100 and p16, and CD34 staining highlighted an arborizing capillary network. The dedifferentiated tumour areas showed positive MDM2 and CDK4 staining within neoplastic cells, with the Ki 67 proliferation marker expressed in approximately 10% of the cells. Wild-type TP53 protein expression pattern was documented. Thus, the diagnosis of a dedifferentiated liposarcoma was established. This paper aims to provide further knowledge about liposarcomas with divergent differentiation at peculiar locations, emphasizing the importance of histopathologic examination and immunohistochemical analysis for establishing the diagnosis and assessing the therapeutic response and prognosis of this condition.
How Cultural Behaviors and Superstitions Associate the Willingness to Undergo Cataract Surgery in Taiwan: A Nationwide Survey
Authors: Tung Hsiao-Fan , Chen Yi-Ling , Chen Chiu-Liang , Gee Mei-Jih , Muo Chih-Hsin , Chiu Shin-Lin
Published: May 2023

Background and Objectives: Cultural beliefs influence the conceptualization, adaptation, and coping strategies for diseases. This study aimed to investigate the impact of cultural beliefs and customs on the willingness to undergo cataract surgery in Taiwan. Materials and Methods: The data were retrospectively retrieved from the national Longitudinal Health Insurance Database 2000 (LHID2000). From the national database, we enrolled patients that were diagnosed with cataracts and underwent cataract surgery from 2001 to 2010. All the patients were stratified according to their gender and living area. Gender was categorized as male or female, and the living area was classified as urban or rural. We compared the difference in the number of surgeries between stratified patient groups in each Chinese lunar month. Results: The number of cataract surgeries decreased significantly in the seventh and twelfth lunar months for both genders. There was a significant reduction in cataract surgeries in both the urban and rural groups during the seventh lunar month. Interestingly, only the seventh lunar month had an association with sex in different living areas, which meant that in the seventh month, there was a gender-specific difference in the surgical numbers. Conclusions: The Taiwanese population holds a belief that surgical procedures, including cataract surgery, during the lunar ghost month is inauspicious. Citizens tend to avoid elective surgery due to cultural practice, resulting in a decrease in surgical numbers during the period of the Chinese New Year. The authorities should consider these cultural behaviors when developing medical policies and allocating resources. Healthcare providers should be aware of these superstitions and take them into account when providing medical care and advice to patients.
Probing Italy: A Scanning Probe Microscopy Storyline
Authors: Dinelli Franco , Brucale Marco , Valle Francesco , Ascoli Cesare , Samorì Bruno , Sartore Marco , Adami Manuela , Galletti Riccardo , Prato Stefano , Troian Barbara , Albonetti Cristiano
Published: May 2023

Starting from the late 1980’s, scanning probe microscopy has progressively diffused in Italy until today. In this paper, we provide a brief account of the main historical events and a current picture of the distribution of the active groups. A survey was prepared by LimeSurvey, made of six sections asking for personal and institutional data, human resources, equipment available, fields of interest, research projects, educational/dissemination activities, and two relevant publications in the last six years. It turns out that the Italian community includes more than seventy groups and two companies. It is widely diffused, although mostly concentrated near large academic and research institutions, often in locations where prominent Italian researchers have operated. This community is active in many scientific fields and can produce research of high international quality. It shows a wide competence, as proven by the list of research works published in journals ranked within the top 20% class. The diffusion of SPM microscopes in industry is still sporadic, possibly due to extensive collaborations between the research institutions and industries themselves. The authors hope that this work might be useful to the community and beyond, and that it might stimulate the formation of a more structured network.
Novel Route to Cationic Palladium(II)–Cyclopentadienyl Complexes Containing Phosphine Ligands and Their Catalytic Activities
Authors: Suslov Dmitry S. , Bykov Mikhail V. , Pakhomova Marina V. , Orlov Timur S. , Abramov Zorikto D. , Suchkova Anastasia V. , Ushakov Igor A. , Abramov Pavel A. , Novikov Alexander S.
Published: May 2023

The Pd(II) complexes [Pd(Cp)(L)n]m[BF4]m were synthesized via the reaction of cationic acetylacetonate complexes with cyclopentadiene in the presence of BF3∙OEt2 (n = 2, m = 1: L = PPh3 (1), P(p-Tol)3, tris(ortho-methoxyphenyl)phosphine (TOMPP), tri-2-furylphosphine, tri-2-thienylphosphine; n = 1, m = 1: L = dppf, dppp (2), dppb (3), 1,5-bis(diphenylphosphino)pentane; n = 1, m = 2 or 3: 1,6-bis(diphenylphosphino)hexane). Complexes 1–3 were characterized using X-ray diffractometry. The inspection of the crystal structures of the complexes enabled the recognition of (Cp–)⋯(Ph-group) and (Cp–)⋯(CH2-group) interactions, which are of C–H…π nature. The presence of these interactions was confirmed theoretically via DFT calculations using QTAIM analysis. The intermolecular interactions in the X-ray structures are non-covalent in origin with an estimated energy of 0.3–1.6 kcal/mol. The cationic palladium catalyst precursors with monophosphines were found to be active catalysts for the telomerization of 1,3-butadiene with methanol (TON up to 2.4∙104 mol 1,3-butadiene per mol Pd with chemoselectivity of 82%). Complex [Pd(Cp)(TOMPP)2]BF4 was found to be an efficient catalyst for the polymerization of phenylacetylene (PA) (catalyst activities up to 8.9 × 103 gPA·(molPd·h)−1 were observed)
Synthesis of Chitosan Oligosaccharide-Loaded Glycyrrhetinic Acid Functionalized Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles and In Vitro Verification of the Treatment of APAP-Induced Liver Injury
Authors: Guo Xinghua , Zhang Chengcheng , Bai Yan , Che Qishi , Cao Hua , Guo Jiao , Su Zhengquan
Published: May 2023

Objective: the study was to find a suitable treatment for acute drug-induced liver injury. The use of nanocarriers can improve the therapeutic effect of natural drugs by targeting hepatocytes and higher loads. Methods: firstly, uniformly dispersed three-dimensional dendritic mesoporous silica nanospheres (MSNs) were synthesized. Glycyrrhetinic acid (GA) was covalently modified on MSN surfaces through amide bond and then loaded with COSM to form drug-loaded nanoparticles (COSM@MSN-NH2-GA). The constructed drug-loaded nano-delivery system was determined by characterization analysis. Finally, the effect of nano-drug particles on cell viability was evaluated and the cell uptake in vitro was observed. Results: GA was successfully modified to obtain the spherical nano-carrier MSN-NH2-GA (≤200 nm). The neutral surface charge improves its biocompatibility. MSN-NH2-GA has high drug loading (28.36% ± 1.00) because of its suitable specific surface area and pore volume. In vitro cell experiments showed that COSM@MSN-NH2-GA significantly enhanced the uptake of liver cells (LO2) and decreased the AST and ALT indexes. Conclusion: this study demonstrated for the first time that formulation and delivery schemes using natural drug COSM and nanocarrier MSN have a protective effect on APAP-induced hepatocyte injury. This result provides a potential nano-delivery scheme for the targeted therapy of acute drug-induced liver injury.
Ligand−Structure Effects on N−Heterocyclic Carbene Rhenium Photo− and Electrocatalysts of CO2 Reduction
Authors: Kearney Lauren , Brandon Michael P. , Coleman Andrew , Chippindale Ann M. , Hartl František , Lalrempuia Ralte , Pižl Martin , Pryce Mary T.
Published: May 2023

Three novel rhenium N−heterocyclic carbene complexes, [Re]−NHC−1−3 ([Re] = fac−Re(CO)3Br), were synthesized and characterized using a range of spectroscopic techniques. Photophysical, electrochemical and spectroelectrochemical studies were carried out to probe the properties of these organometallic compounds. Re−NHC−1 and Re−NHC−2 bear a phenanthrene backbone on an imidazole (NHC) ring, coordinating to Re by both the carbene C and a pyridyl group attached to one of the imidazole nitrogen atoms. Re−NHC−2 differs from Re−NHC−1 by replacing N−H with an N−benzyl group as the second substituent on imidazole. The replacement of the phenanthrene backbone in Re−NHC−2 with the larger pyrene gives Re−NHC−3. The two−electron electrochemical reductions of Re−NHC−2 and Re−NHC−3 result in the formation of the five−coordinate anions that are capable of electrocatalytic CO2 reduction. These catalysts are formed first at the initial cathodic wave R1, and then, ultimately, via the reduction of Re−Re bound dimer intermediates at the second cathodic wave R2. All three Re−NHC−1−3 complexes are active photocatalysts for the transformation of CO2 to CO, with the most photostable complex, Re−NHC−3, being the most effective for this conversion. Re−NHC−1 and Re−NHC−2 afforded modest CO turnover numbers (TONs), following irradiation at 355 nm, but were inactive at the longer irradiation wavelength of 470 nm. In contrast, Re−NHC−3, when photoexcited at 470 nm, yielded the highest TON in this study, but remained inactive at 355 nm. The luminescence spectrum of Re−NHC−3 is red−shifted compared to those of Re−NHC−1 and Re−NHC−2, and previously reported similar [Re]−NHC complexes. This observation, together with TD−DFT calculations, suggests that the nature of the lowest−energy optical excitation for Re−NHC−3 has π→π*(NHC−pyrene) and dπ(Re)→π*(pyridine) (IL/MLCT) character. The stability and superior photocatalytic performance of Re−NHC−3 are attributed to the extended conjugation of the π−electron system, leading to the beneficial modulation of the strongly electron−donating tendency of the NHC group.
Characteristics, Isolation Methods, and Biological Properties of Aucubin
Authors: Kartini Kartini , Irawan Michelle Abigail , Setiawan Finna , Jayani Nikmatul Ikhrom Eka
Published: May 2023

Aucubin is an iridoid glycoside widely spread in the families Cornaceae, Garryaceae, Orobanchaceae, Globulariaceae, Eucommiaceae, Scrophulariaceae, Plantaginaceae, and Rubiaceae. This review is intended to provide data on the physicochemical characteristics, isolation methods, and biological activities of aucubin and its producing plants. Aucubin is unstable and can be deglycosylated into its aglycone, aucubigenin. Various chromatographic methods (column chromatography, vacuum liquid chromatography, medium pressure liquid chromatography, and high-performance liquid chromatography) have been used together to isolate aucubin, mainly with the stationary phase C-18 and the mobile phase water–methanol solution made in gradients. In vitro and in vivo studies reveal that aucubin has a wide range of activities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anxiolytic and antidepressant, antidiabetic, antifibrotic, antimicrobial, anticancer, antihyperlipidemic, gastroprotective, cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, retinoprotective, neuroprotective, osteoprotective, and renoprotective. Even though aucubin has been extensively investigated, further research in humans is urgently needed primarily to substantiate the clinical evidence. Moreover, extensive studies on its drug delivery systems will help maximize efficacy and minimize side effects.
Antitumor Effect of Bleomycin Nanoaerosol in Murine Carcinoma Model
Authors: Karshieva Saida S. , Babayeva Gulalek , Pokrovsky Vadim S. , Shlyapnikov Yuri M. , Shlyapnikova Elena A. , Bugrova Anna E. , Kononikhin Alexey S. , Nikolaev Evgeny N. , Kanev Igor L.
Published: May 2023

Bleomycin, which is widely used as an antitumor agent, possesses serious adverse effects such as pulmonary toxicity. Local nanoaerosol deposition for lung cancer treatment is a promising alternative to drug delivery to lung lesions. The aim of this work is to test the hypothesis that bleomycin nanoaerosol can be effectively used to treat multiple lung metastases. To obtain bleomycin nanoaerosol, an aerosol generator based on electrospray of a solution of a nonvolatile substance with gas-phase neutralization of charged aerosol particles was used. Lung metastases in murine Lewis lung carcinoma and B16 melanoma animal models were counted. The effect of inhaled bleomycin nanoparticles on the number and volume of metastases, as well as pulmonary side effects, was investigated. Using a mouse exposure chamber, the dose-dependent effect of inhaled bleomycin on tumor volume was evaluated in comparison with intraperitoneal administration. Bleomycin nanoaerosol reduced the volume of metastases and produced a higher antitumor effect at much lower doses. It has been established that long-term exposure to nanoaerosol with a low dose of bleomycin is capable of suppressing cancer cell growth. The treatment was well tolerated. In the lungs, minor changes were found in the form of focal-diffuse infiltration of the lung parenchyma.
Determination of Multiple Neurotransmitters through LC-MS/MS to Confirm the Therapeutic Effects of Althaea rosea Flower on TTX-Intoxicated Rats
Authors: Wang Yichen , Zheng Renjin , Wu Pingping , Wu Youjia , Huang Lingyi , Huang Liying
Published: May 2023

Tetrodotoxin (TTX) inhibits neurotransmission in animals, and there is no specific antidote. In clinical practice in China, Althaea rosea (A. rosea flower) extract has been used to treat TTX poisoning. In this work, the efficacy of the ethyl acetate fraction extract of A. rosea flower in treating TTX poisoning in rats was investigated. A high-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method was developed to determine nine neurotransmitters in rat brain tissue, including γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), dopamine (DA), 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), noradrenaline (NE), 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC), homovanillic acid (HVA), 5-hydroxyindole-3-acetic acid (5-HIAA), epinephrine (E), and tyramine (Tyn). The detoxifying effect of A. rosea flower was verified by comparing the changes in neurotransmitters’ content in brain tissue before and after poisoning in rats. The assay was performed in multiple reaction monitoring mode. The quantification method was performed by plotting an internal-standard working curve with good linearity (R2 > 0.9941) and sensitivity. Analyte recoveries were 94.04–107.53% (RSD < 4.21%). Results indicated that the levels of 5-HT, DA, E, and NE in the brains of TTX-intoxicated rats decreased, whereas the levels of GABA, Tyn, and 5-HIAA showed an opposite trend, and HVA and DOPAC were not detected. The levels of all seven neurotransmitters returned to normal after the gavage administration of ethyl acetate extract of A. rosea flower to prove that the ethyl acetate extract of A. rosea flower had a therapeutic effect on TTX poisoning. The work provided new ideas for studies on TTX detoxification.
Molecular Design of Porous Organic Polymer-Derived Carbonaceous Electrocatalysts for Pinpointing Active Sites in Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Mou Xiaofeng , Xin Xiaoyu , Dong Yanli , Zhao Bin , Gao Runze , Liu Tianao , Li Na , Liu Huimin , Xiao Zhichang
Published: May 2023

The widespread application of fuel cells is hampered by the sluggish kinetics of the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), which traditionally necessitates the use of high-cost platinum group metal catalysts. The indispensability of these metal catalysts stems from their ability to overcome kinetic barriers, but their high cost and scarcity necessitate alternative strategies. In this context, porous organic polymers (POPs), which are built up from the molecular level, are emerging as promising precursors to produce carbonaceous catalysts owning to their cost-effectiveness, high electrical conductivity, abundant active sites and extensive surface area accessibility. To enhance the intrinsic ORR activity and optimize the performance of these electrocatalysts, recognizing, designing, and increasing the density of active sites are identified as three crucial steps. These steps, which form the core of our review, serve to elucidate the link between the material structure design and ORR performance evaluation, thereby providing valuable insights for ongoing research in the field. Leveraging the precision of polymer skeletons based on molecular units, POP-derived carbonaceous catalysts provide an excellent platform for in-depth exploration of the role and working mechanism for the specific active site during the ORR process. In this review, the recent advances pertaining to the synthesis techniques and electrochemical functions of various types of active sites, pinpointed from POPs, are systematically summarized, including heteroatoms, surficial substituents and edge/defects. Notably, the structure–property relationship, between these active sites and ORR performance, are discussed and emphasized, which creates guidelines to shed light on the design of high-performance ORR electrocatalysts.
Poly(styrene sulfonic acid)-Grafted Carbon Black Synthesized by Surface-Initiated Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization
Authors: Kirakosyan Artavazd , Lee Donghyun , Choi Yoonseong , Jung Namgee , Choi Jihoon
Published: May 2023

Owing to their excellent electrical conductivity and robust mechanical properties, carbon-based nanocomposites are being used in a wide range of applications and devices, such as electromagnetic wave interference shielding, electronic devices, and fuel cells. While several approaches have been developed for synthesizing carbon nanotubes and carbon-black-based polymer nanocomposites, most studies have focused on the simple blending of the carbon material with a polymer matrix. However, this results in uncontrolled interactions between the carbon filler and the polymer chains, leading to the agglomeration of the carbon filler. Herein, we report a new strategy for synthesizing sulfonated polystyrene (PSS)-grafted carbon black nanoparticles (NPs) via surface-initiated atom-transfer radical polymerization. Treatments with O2 plasma and H2O2 result in the effective attachment of the appropriate initiator to the carbon black NPs, thus allowing for the controlled formation of the PSS brushes. The high polymeric processability and desirable mechanical properties of the PSS-grafted carbon black NPs enable them suitable for use in nonfluorinated-hydrocarbon-based polymer electrolyte membranes for fuel cells, which must exhibit high proton conductivity without interrupting the network of channels consisting of ionic clusters (i.e., sulfonic acid moieties).
Anticancer Effect of Cold Atmospheric Plasma in Syngeneic Mouse Models of Melanoma and Colon Cancer
Authors: Jung Joon-Min , Yoon Hae-Kyeong , Kim Su-Yeon , Yun Mi-Ra , Kim Gyeong-Hoon , Lee Woo-Jin , Lee Mi-Woo , Chang Sung-Eun , Won Chong-Hyun
Published: May 2023

Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) may have applications in treating various types of malignant tumors. This study assessed the anticancer effects of CAP using melanoma and colon cancer cell lines. CAP treatment significantly reduced the in vitro viability of melanoma and colon cancer cell lines and had a negligible effect on the viability of normal human melanocytes. Additionally, CAP and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitor had an additive anticancer effect in a CAP-resistant melanoma cell line. Reactive oxygen and nitrogen species known to be generated by CAP enhanced the anticancer effects of CAP and EGFR inhibitors. The in vivo anticancer activities of CAP were evaluated by testing its effects against syngeneic tumors induced in mice by melanoma and colon cancer cells. CAP treatment reduced tumor volume and weight in both cancer models, with the extent of tumor reduction dependent on the duration and number of CAP treatments. Histologic examination also revealed the tumoricidal effects of CAP in both tumor models. In conclusion, CAP inhibits the growth of mouse melanoma and colon cancer cell lines in vitro and shows tumoricidal effects against mouse models of melanoma and colon cancer in vivo.
Exploring the Utility of Autonomic Nervous System Evaluation for Stroke Prognosis
Authors: Orgianelis Ilias , Merkouris Ermis , Kitmeridou Sofia , Tsiptsios Dimitrios , Karatzetzou Stella , Sousanidou Anastasia , Gkantzios Aimilios , Christidi Foteini , Polatidou Efthymia , Beliani Anastasia , Tsiakiri Anna , Kokkotis Christos , Iliopoulos Stylianos , Anagnostopoulos Konstantinos , Aggelousis Nikolaos , Vadikolias Konstantinos
Published: May 2023

Stroke is a major cause of functional disability and is increasing in frequency. Therefore, stroke prognosis must be both accurate and timely. Among other biomarkers, heart rate variability (HRV) is investigated in terms of prognostic accuracy within stroke patients. The literature research of two databases (MEDLINE and Scopus) is performed to trace all relevant studies published within the last decade addressing the potential utility of HRV for stroke prognosis. Only the full-text articles published in English are included. In total, forty-five articles have been traced and are included in the present review. The prognostic value of biomarkers of autonomic dysfunction (AD) in terms of mortality, neurological deterioration, and functional outcome appears to be within the range of known clinical variables, highlighting their utility as prognostic tools. Moreover, they may provide additional information regarding poststroke infections, depression, and cardiac adverse events. AD biomarkers have demonstrated their utility not only in the setting of acute ischemic stroke but also in transient ischemic attack, intracerebral hemorrhage, and traumatic brain injury, thus representing a promising prognostic tool whose clinical application may greatly facilitate individualized stroke care.
A Retrospective Chart Review Evaluating Changes in 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Levels among Patients Attending the University Healthcare Centre during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Benameur Tarek , Kaliyadan Feroze , Saidi Neji , Porro Chiara
Published: May 2023

COVID-19-pandemic-related home confinement aids in limiting the spread of the virus but restricts exposure to sunlight, thereby possibly affecting 25(OH)D concentrations. This study aimed to investigate the effect of lockdown measures on 25(OH)D levels in outpatients visiting the healthcare centre over a period of two years. In this retrospective chart review, outpatients who visited a university healthcare centre for a health check-up over a period of two years were included. The patients’ 25(OH)D serum levels and status were compared before, during, and after the lockdown periods. A total of 7234 patients were included in this study, with a mean age of 34.66 ± 16.78. The overall prevalence of 25(OH)D insufficiency, deficiency and sufficiency was 33.8%, 30.7% and 35.4%, respectively. The proportion of individuals with 25-(OH) D deficiency prior to lockdown was 29% and this proportion increased in the lockdown and post-lockdown periods to 31.1% and 32%, respectively. Although gender was less likely to have an impact on the 25 (OH) D level during the lockdown period (p = 0.630), we found an association between gender and 25 (OH) D status in the pre-lockdown and post-lockdown periods (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). Another association between nationality and 25 (OH)D levels was found before, during and after the lockdown periods (p < 0.001). In addition, the youngest population, aged between 1 and 14, was strongly affected by the home confinement. Age had a positive and significant (p < 0.05) effect on 25 (OH) D status regardless of the different periods. Moreover, in the pre-lockdown period, male outpatients had 1.56 chance of having a sufficient level of 25 (OH)D. However, during the lockdown period, this chance decreased to 0.85 and then increased to 0.99 after the lockdown period. We found no statistically significant difference in the mean serum concentrations or in the prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency when we compared values from before, during and immediately after the COVID-19 lockdown period. However, there was a generally increased prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency in our study population. Another association between gender, nationality and age groups with 25(OH) D was found. Regular exposure to UVR is recommended for maintaining adequate vitamin D levels and to prevent vitamin D deficiency. Further research is needed to determine the best indications for vitamin D supplementation if confinement periods are extended and to consider the potential health consequences of prolonged confinement periods not only on vitamin D status but also on overall public health. The findings of this study may be considered by stakeholders for a targeted supplementation approach for risk groups.