Considerations for massic activity determination by Decay Energy Spectrometry (DES) using cryogenic Transition Edge Sensors (TES).

Ti-MXene (Ti3C2Tz) is the most common member of a larger family of 2D materials widely explored due to a variety of possible applications. MXenes are mostly synthesized using strong acids like HF and HCl or using procedures that require elevated temperatures. Here, we present a new method for Ti3C2Tz preparation with a weak acid solution, which is more beneficial for mass production with reduced environmental impact. It is demonstrated that aluminum can be etched from titanium aluminum carbide (Ti3AlC2) using ammonium fluoride (NH4F) dissolved in an aqueous solution of acetic acid (CH3COOH). Optimization of the balance between amounts of water and acetic acid in the etching solution allows for complete etching of Al atoms yielding partially nitrogen terminated MXene in addition to common -O/-OH and -F termination. The mechanism of MXene formation was investigated by the in situ synchrotron radiation X-ray diffraction (XRD), allowing characterization of "pristine" MXene structure forming directly in the process of Ti3AlC2 reaction with NH4F/CH3COOH. In situ XRD analysis also enables identification of the reaction byproducts, thus providing information about the mechanism of MXene formation.

ABSTRACT Recently, bile acids (BAs) have garnered significant attention due to their crucial roles in various metabolic diseases. However, the simultaneous quantification of BAs in biological samples is challenging due to the structural similarities, complex biological matrix, and tissue‐specific distribution. We developed a sensitive UHPLC–MS/MS method for quantitation of 19 BAs in mouse liver (mainly conjugated BAs) and feces (mainly unconjugated BAs). We compared protein precipitation, liquid–liquid extraction, and solid‐phase extraction (SPE) methods for sample preparation, and SPE was chosen due to the low background noise and high extraction efficiency for both conjugated and unconjugated BAs. The method was extensively validated by evaluating the linearity ( R 2 ≥ 0.991), extraction recovery (82%–112%), limits of detection (1–2 ng/mL) and low limits of quantification (2–5 ng/mL). Then, the method was applied to the detection of BAs in liver and feces of metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease mice, and the correlations between BA levels and the mRNA expression levels of BA metabolic enzymes, transporters, and receptors were analyzed. This study provides a direct and reliable determination method for the in‐depth investigation of the enterohepatic circulation of BAs.

Recent studies have shown that essential oils (EOs) from spices are effective in reducing high blood glucose levels, with β-caryophyllene (BCP) emerging as one of the most promising bioactive compounds. Despite the increasing interest in this field, few studies in the literature have elucidated the link between sample components and their resulting biological activities. In this paper, a detailed investigation was carried out, using a black pepper EO as a case study, and α-glucosidase as biological target. Initial biological assays showed very similar activities between the entire EO and the corresponding amount of BCP in the EO on α-glucosidase. These outcomes confirmed the manifest role of BCP, and further suggested that EO's fractionation could help to unravel the complex interactions among terpene families, BCP, and the biological target. As a first step, a suitable preparative GC method was developed to enable the effective and rapid isolation of the separated monoterpene and sesquiterpene families for subsequent biological assays. The biological outcomes bio-guided consequent fractionation procedures, which were aimed at understanding the role of BCP in the overall sesquiterpene family. Consequently, the use of multidimensional preparative GC guaranteed the effective isolation of the sesquiterpene family without BCP, underscoring its relevant role in this fraction. In a complementary approach, the sesquiterpene family was further fractionated to understand potential enhancing/inhibitory effects with BCP. To the best of authors' knowledge, this paper represents the first instance in the literature where preparative gas chromatography has been employed as an analytical approach to carry out a bio-guided fractionation of EOs.

Colorimetric and fluorometric Seleno-BODIPY sensor for selective palladium detection in solution and on a cotton swab platform

A preparation method of high purity porous indigo based on the influence of proteins and saponins on its sedimentation

Research progress on functional carbon dots for detecting heavy metal ions in the fields of environmental protection and food safety.

Shape-stabilized phase change materials prepared via mercerization of self-entangled cellulose nanofibrils.

There is increasing interest in measuring the effect of microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) in the environment, but it is difficult to compare the results obtained in these studies due to variations in the extraction and characterization techniques, as well as the variability of the matrices analyzed. Here we provide a workflow consisting of three separate procedures for (1) preprocessing of different environmental samples, (2) methods for MNP extraction (four-step extraction method) and (3) techniques for qualitative and quantitative characterization of MNPs. The four-step extraction method (FSEM) involves predigestion, predensity separation, postdigestion and postdensity separation. This process has been optimized to maximize recovery (between 83.7% and 100% for polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, polystyrene and polymethyl methacrylate) and purity while minimizing artefactual changes to the particles. It is crucial to characterize the MNPs extracted using the FSEM to understand their chemical composition and other physicochemical properties such as quantity, particle size and morphology. We provide guidance on the use of different fit-for-purpose analytical technologies, including attenuated total reflection-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), laser direct infrared spectroscopy (LDIR) and optical photothermal infrared microspectroscopy (O-PTIR). These techniques can be combined to characterize MNPs with particle sizes of 0.5-5,000 µm. We provide advice on how to optimize the sample preparation methods by adding or removing extraction steps based on the complexity of the matrix and purpose of the analysis. The suggested validation workflow also uses additional analytical techniques (for example, atomic force microscopy and flow cytometry) to evaluate efficiency, feasibility and reliability. We provide experimental detail for analysis using micro-FTIR, which can be used instead of LDIR and O-PTIR to characterize microplastics with particle sizes larger than 10 µm. Execution of this workflow takes 7-30 d and can be performed by researchers, technicians and students in the environmental field if they have access to the required equipment.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) employs various processing methods to enhance the bioactivity of herbs. Rheum palmatum (R. palmatum) is commonly processed to optimize its medicinal properties, yet its antibacterial activity under different processing techniques remains unclear. Standardizing preparation methods is essential for ensuring consistent therapeutic efficacy. This study examines how different processing methods influence the antibacterial activity of R. palmatum, contributing to the standardization of TCM preparation. R. palmatum roots underwent 10 different water-based processing methods. Antibacterial activity against S. aureus was assessed using disc diffusion and broth microdilution assays. The most effective extracts were further analyzed via molecular docking to evaluate their binding interactions with bacterial virulence proteins (α-hemolysin and Catalase). Disc diffusion and MIC results showed that RP-4 (high-pressure steamed with wine) exhibited the largest inhibition zone (11.67 mm) and the lowest MIC (1250 μg/mL). Compared to other tested microorganisms, selective inhibition was also observed against S. aureus. Molecular docking revealed that Rhein, a major active compound identified in the RP-4 extract, exhibited strong binding affinity to α-hemolysin and Catalase, comparable to standard antibiotics. RP-4, processed through high-pressure steaming with wine, showed the strongest antibacterial activity based on ZOI and MIC results. Wine processing enhances the dissolution of active compounds, while high-pressure steaming reduces anthraquinone derivatives that cause digestive problems. Molecular docking also confirmed interactions between Rhein and the virulent proteins α-hemolysin and Catalase, suggesting a potential mechanism for inhibiting S. aureus. Processing methods significantly influence the antibacterial properties of R. palmatum. RP-4 demonstrated the strongest activity against S. aureus, making it a promising candidate for future TCM formulation and antibacterial drug development.

Structural characterization of a glycosaminoglycan sulfate from Sepia esculenta ink, and its apoptosis induction in MDA-MB-231 cells via miR-18a-5p/ORAI3 pathway mediated intracellular calcium overload.

Aroma and flavor profiling of walnut oils from five major Xinjiang cultivars: sensory evaluation and comparative analysis.

The influence of the preparation method on the thermal, optical, magnetic, and structural properties of Bi3+ doped calcium aluminosilicate glasses

Fabrication of a bio-based benzoxazine-modified hydrophobic cellulose aerogel for efficient oil-water separation.

Objective: To establish two path-planning strategies and execution modes for posterior tooth preparation and to evaluate their feasibility preparation accuracy, and efficiency using an autonomous oral surgical robot, so as to provide a reference for the clinical application of autonomous oral surgical robots in tooth preparation. Methods: Twenty three-dimensinal (3D)-printed resin standard mandibular partial dentition models (teeth 35-37) were allocated to an experimental group (n=10) and a control group (n=10). A full-crown preparation path-planning strategy for tooth 36 was established in the software. The experimental group adopted a feature-guided stepwise removal preparation strategy, whereas the control group adopted an equal-section layered milling preparation strategy. The robot performed tooth preparation on the 3D-printed resin standard mandibular partial dentition models fixed on the experimental bench, and the preparation time was recorded. After preparation, the models were three-dimensionally scanned and registered to the ideal prepared tooth model planned in the software. A 3D comparison between the actual prepared tooth and the planned preparation was performed to assess 3D deviation and the percentage of the actual removed volume (the designed value was 37.3%). Results: Robotic tooth preparation was successfully completed for all models in both groups. The 3D deviation in the experimental group was (0.13±0.02) mm, significantly smaller than that in the control group (0.80±0.04) mm (t=47.37, P<0.05). With an identical designed removal amount of 37.3%, the actual removed volume percentage in the experimental group [(39.32±1.18)%] was closer to the designed value and significantly higher than that in the control group [(23.86±1.92)%] (t=21.70, P<0.05). The preparation time was (350.6±7.5) s in the experimental group, which was significantly shorter than that in the control group [(1 390.6±47.5) s] (t=68.34, P<0.05). Conclusions: Using an autonomous oral surgical robot, posterior tooth preparation could be completed with both path-planning strategies and execution modes. However, the feature-guided stepwise removal preparation strategy was superior to the equal-section layered milling preparation strategy in both preparation accuracy and efficiency.

Pesticide residues in imported black tea in Egypt: Occurrence, processing-induced reduction, and health risk assessment.

Ethnopharmacological studies are growing in number in Europe; however, research on medicinal plants in Lithuania focusing on dermatological and cosmetic applications is still scarce. This study aimed to evaluate ethnobotanical heritage related to the treatment of skin diseases and cosmetic use in Northern Lithuania and to assess the compliance of traditional medicinal plant use indications with European Union herbal monographs. This study involved 36 participants aged 40 to 89. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews. This study documented 76 plant species belonging to 41 botanical families for the treatment of skin diseases and cosmetic purposes. This knowledge was primarily transmitted through family traditions, with 59.2% of respondents reporting that they acquired this knowledge from parents or grandparents. The medicinal plants most frequently mentioned for the treatment of skin diseases and cosmetic purposes were Aloe vera (L.) Burm. f. and Plantago major L. The most popular preparation method was topical application (32.4%) for treating skin diseases and decoction (38.5%) for cosmetic purposes. Plant-based raw materials were most often used to treat skin wounds (24.5%), as well as skin inflammation (16.3%) and burns (12.1%). For cosmetic purposes, the most frequently mentioned indication was dry skin (23.6% of plants). Of the 76 recorded plant species, 41 (53.9%) were not included in herbal monographs, and only 15 species (42.86%) were used in accordance with approved medical indications for skin diseases. Many plant species are used without European Medicines Agency-approved medical indications, relying solely on traditional and folk knowledge.

The AI-Based Interview Coach is an innovative and intelligent web-based platform designed to assist job seekers and students in enhancing their interview performance through real-time, personalized, and adaptive feedback. In today's highly competitive job market, candidates often lack access to effective and affordable interview preparation tools. Traditional methods such as peer mock interviews, coaching institutes, and static question banks fail to provide objective, data-driven, and immediate feedback. This project bridges that gap by leveraging state-of-the-art Artificial Intelligence technologies. The system is powered by Natural Language Processing (NLP), Sentiment Analysis, Speech Recognition, and Machine Learning algorithms. These technologies work in concert to evaluate a candidate's response across multiple dimensions including clarity, relevance, grammar, fluency, confidence, and professional tone. Users have the flexibility to either type or speak their responses, making the platform accessible to a wider audience. The AI Interview Coach generates role-specific and adaptive interview questions tailored to various job profiles such as Software Engineers, Marketing Professionals, HR Executives, Data Scientists, and more. This ensures that each practice session is highly relevant to the user's target role. Upon completing a session, users receive a comprehensive performance report with a numerical score, detailed feedback, and specific suggestions for improvement. An optional Computer Vision module, leveraging webcam input, further enhances the coaching experience by analyzing non-verbal cues such as facial expressions, eye contact, and body posture. These non-verbal aspects of communication are often critical in real-world interviews and are typically overlooked in conventional preparation methods The system consists of two primary modules: the Student Module, which handles user registration, job role selection, interview simulation, and result tracking, and the Admin Module, which manages students, job roles, interview histories, and system feedback. The application is built using the Python Flask framework for backend operations and MySQL as the database management system. The front-end is developed using HTML, CSS, Bootstrap, and JavaScript, ensuring a responsive and user-friendly interface

The selective separation and precise analysis of rare earth elements (REEs) in impurity-laden matrices constitute persistent challenges. Among available separation techniques, ion-exchange chromatography has gained prominence as an effective approach for REE purification. However, the quest for a high-performance stationary phase preparation method continues to be a focal point. Herein, a propylsulfonic acid-functionalized stationary phase (Sil-SH-SCX) was developed through γ-mercaptopropyl trimethoxysilane (MPTS) grafting followed by oxidation. The Sil-SH-SCX demonstrated excellent chromatographic performance, achieving efficient separation of REEs with resolution ranging from 4.2 to 12.6 for adjacent lanthanides. Besides, the Sil-SH-SCX column displayed high repeatability (RSD < 0.99%, n = 10) and stability (RSD < 1.5%, n = 30). Taking advantage of its excellent separation performance, Sil-SH-SCX was successfully applied for the sensitive determination of REEs with excellent linearity (R2 = 0.996-0.999, 1-500mgL-1). This work provided an insight into the design of achromatography stationary phase and expanded its potential application in REE analysis and purification.

Abstract This study aims to explore simple preparation methods for high-quality SiO 2 aerogel film and their potential applications in infrared thermal radiation detectors. By utilizing a layer of nanoscale gold particles (Au NPs) to release the film stress during the spin-coating and drying process, we obtained SiO 2 aerogel film with uniform porosity, high adhesion strength, smooth surface, and excellent thermal insulation effect, with a measured thermal conductivity of 0.018W/mK. Further, we applied the SiO 2 aerogel film as a thermal barrier layer in microbolometer, experimentally obtaining a temperature coefficient (TCR) of 2.38%/K, a maximum voltage responsivity of 2.2×10 4 V/W, a thermal response time of 0.17 ms, and a detectivity of 3.6×10 7 cmHz 1/2 /W. Notably, the device was manufactured using a CMOScompatible process technology, which not only ensured low thermal conductivity but also enhanced device stability, simplified the fabrication process, reduced manufacturing costs, and improved yield, making it particularly suitable for large-scale batch array preparation.