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Proper joint function has a significant impact on people’s quality of life. Joints are the point of connection between two or more bones and consist of at least three elements: joint surfaces, the joint capsule, and the joint cavity. Joint diseases are a serious social problem. Risk factors for the development of these diseases include overweight and obesity, gender, and intestinal microbiome disorders. Another factor that is considered to influence joint diseases is trace elements. Under normal conditions, elements such as iron (Fe), copper (Cu), cobalt (Co), iodine (I), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), silver (Ag), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), lead (Pb), nickel (Ni) selenium (Se), boron (B), and silicon (Si) are part of enzymes involved in reactions that determine the proper functioning of cells, regulate redox metabolism, and determine the maturation of cells that build joint components. However, when the normal concentration of the above-mentioned elements is disturbed and toxic elements are present, dangerous joint diseases can develop. In this article, we focus on the role of trace elements in joint function. We describe the molecular mechanisms that explain their interaction with chondrocytes, osteocytes, osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and synoviocytes, as well as their proliferation, apoptosis, and extracellular matrix synthesis. We also focus on the role of these trace elements in the pathogenesis of joint diseases: rheumatoid arthritis (RA), osteoarthritis (OA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), ankylosing spondylitis (AS), and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). We describe the roles of increased or decreased concentrations of individual elements in the pathogenesis and development of joint diseases and their impact on inflammation and disease progression, referring to molecular mechanisms. We also discuss their potential application in the treatment of joint diseases. Full article

Rouaite (Cu₂(OH)₃NO₃) long hexagonal multilayered nanoplates with high purity and high crystallinity were prepared from acidic reaction solution (pH = 4.4–4.8) with the assistance of ZnO. The ZnO-assisted strategy is remarkably different from the conventional synthetic protocol that was regularly carried out in alkaline solution (pH > 11). The rouaite multilayer nanoplates displayed exceptionally high catalytic activity in the catalytic wet peroxide oxidation (CWPO) of Congo red (CR). The catalytic efficiency for CR decolorization achieved an impressive 96.3% in 50 min under near-neutral (pH = 6.76) and ambient conditions (T = 20 °C, p = 1 atm), without increasing the temperature and/or decreasing the pH value to acidic region (pH = 2–3) as is commonly employed in CWPO process for improved degradation efficiency. Full article

Parametric changes in the first coordination shell (FCS) of a vitreous metallic Pd_42.5Cu₃₀Ni_7.5P₂₀ alloy are analysed, aiming to confirm the identification of the glass transition temperature (T_g) via processing of XRD patterns utilising radial and pair distribution functions (RDFs and PDFs) and their evolution with temperature. The Wendt–Abraham empirical criterion of glass transition and its modifications are confirmed in line with previous works, which utilised the kink of the temperature dependences of the minima and maxima of both the PDF and the maxima of the structure factor S(q). Massive fluctuations are, however, identified near the T_g of the derivatives of the minima and maxima of the PDF and maxima of S(q), which adds value to understanding the glass transition in the system as a true second-order-like phase transformation in the non-equilibrium system of atoms. Full article

Due to the feeding system (high-concentrate diet) during the early lactation stage, ruminal pH in dairy cows follows a diurnal pattern and can remain below the critical level of 5.5 for extended periods of the day. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of low ruminal pH on blood concentrations of certain macrominerals, trace minerals, and fat-soluble vitamins and on the oxidative status of dairy cows during the first half of lactation. Fifty-three randomly selected lactating Holstein cows were used; blood and ruminal fluid samples were collected from all cows on days 30, 90 and 150 of lactation. Blood samples were obtained via coccygeal venipuncture, while the ruminal fluid was obtained by rumenocentesis and the pH was measured immediately after collection. Using a threshold pH of 5.5, samples were classified as normal (pH > 5.5) or low pH (pH ≤ 5.5). Serum concentrations of Ca, Mg, K, Cr, Mn, Zn, Se, and vitamins A, D3, E, and K were not significantly affected by ruminal pH, either by days in milk or by their interaction (p > 0.05). Plasma malondialdehyde and reduced glutathione followed the same trend (p > 0.05). Copper concentration was significantly higher (p < 0.05), and Fe concentration tended to be higher in cows with low pH compared to those with normal pH (p = 0.052). On day 150 of lactation, Cu, Fe, and Co concentrations were significantly higher in low-pH cows compared to normal-pH cows (p < 0.05). Low ruminal pH is associated with significant changes in serum concentrations of copper, iron, and cobalt but has no significant effect on the oxidative status of the animals or on the serum concentrations of the macro elements and fat-soluble vitamins studied. Full article

Background: A detailed understanding of cardiac anatomy and physiology is crucial in cardiovascular medicine. However, traditional learning methods often fall short in addressing this complexity. Augmented reality (AR) offers a promising tool to enhance comprehension. To assess its potential integration into the Heidelberger Curriculum Medicinale (HeiCuMed), we conducted a needs assessment among medical students and lecturers at Heidelberg University Medical School. Methods: Our survey aimed to evaluate the perceived benefits of AR-based learning compared to conventional methods and to gather expectations regarding an AR course in cardiovascular medicine. Using LimeSurvey, we developed a questionnaire to assess participants’ prior AR experience, preferred learning methods, and interest in a proposed AR-based, 2 × 90-min in-person course. Results: A total of 101 students and 27 lecturers participated. Support for AR in small-group teaching was strong: 96.3% of students and 90.9% of lecturers saw value in a dedicated AR course. Both groups favored its application in anatomy, cardiac surgery, and internal medicine. Students prioritized congenital heart defects, coronary anomalies, and arrhythmias, while lecturers also emphasized invasive valve interventions. Conclusions: There is significant interest in AR-based teaching in cardiovascular education, suggesting its potential to complement and improve traditional methods in medical curricula. Further studies are needed to assess the potential benefits regarding learning outcomes. Full article

Zinc (Zn)-based batteries have attracted significant interest for applications ranging from electric bikes to grid storage because of its advantageous properties like high abundance, non-toxicity and low-cost. Zn offers a high theoretical capacity of two electrons per atom, resulting in 820 mAh/g, making it a promising anode material for the development of highly energy dense batteries. However, the advancement of Zn-based battery systems is hindered by the limited availability of cathode materials that simultaneously offer high theoretical capacity, long-term cycling stability, and affordability. In this work, we present a new mixed material cathode system, comprising of a mixture of manganese dioxide (MnO₂) and copper oxide (Cu₂O) as active materials, that delivers a high theoretical capacity of ~280 mAh/g (MnO₂ + Cu₂O active material) (based on the combined mass of MnO₂ and Cu₂O) and supports stable cycling for >200 cycles at 1C. We further demonstrate the scalability of this novel cathode system by increasing the electrode size and capacity, highlighting its potential for practical and commercial applications. Full article

The strategic construction of heterojunctions through a simple and efficient strategy is one of the most effective means to boost the photocatalytic activity of semiconductor materials. Herein, a thiazole-linked covalent organic framework (TZ-COF) with large surface area, well-ordered pore structure, and high stability was developed. To further boost photocatalytic activity, the TZ-COF was synthesized in situ on the surface of Cu₂O through a simple multicomponent reaction, yielding an encapsulated composite material (Cu₂O@TZ-COF-18). In this composite, the outermost COF endows the material with abundant redox active sites and mass transfer channels, while the innermost Cu₂O exhibits unique photoelectric properties. Notably, the synthesized Cu₂O@TZ-COF-18 was proven to have the heterojunction structure, which can efficiently restrain the recombination of photogenerated electron–hole pairs, thereby enhancing the photocatalytic performance. The photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline demonstrated that 3-Cu₂O@TZ-COF-18 had the highest photocatalytic efficiency, with the removal rate of 96.3% within 70 min under visible light, which is better than that of pristine TZ-COF-18, Cu₂O, the physical mixture of Cu₂O and TZ-COF-18, and numerous reported COF-based composite materials. 3-Cu₂O@TZ-COF-18 retained its original crystallinity and removal efficiency after five cycles in photodegradation reaction, displaying high stability and excellent cycle performance. Full article

Enhancing the nutritional content of crops is crucial for safeguarding human health and mitigating global hunger. A viable method for attaining this goal is the planned implementation of various agronomic practices, including tillage and nutrient provision. A field experiment was executed at the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences in Gödöllő in the 2023 and 2024 growing seasons. The study aimed to assess the effects of foliar nutrient supply and soil tillage methods on the grain nutritional composition and mineral content of winter barley. Employing a split-plot design with three replications, the experiment included four nutrient treatments (control, bio-cereal, bio-algae, and MgSMnZn blend) and two soil tillage types (i.e., plowing and cultivator). The results indicated that while protein content was not influenced by the main effects of nutrients and tillage, the levels of β-glucan, starch, crude ash, and moisture content were significantly (p < 0.05) affected by the nutrient treatments and by growing year, treated as a random factor. Notably, bio-algae and bio-cereal nutrients, combined with cultivator tillage, enhanced β-glucan content. All applied nutrient treatments increased the level of starch compared to the control. With regard to grain mineral content, the iron and zinc content responded to the nutrient supply, tillage, and growing year. However, applying a multiple-nutrient composition-based treatment did not increase iron and zinc levels, suggesting that individual applications may be more effective for increasing the content of these minerals in grains. Cultivator tillage improved iron and zinc levels. Moreover, manganese (Mn) and copper (Cu) were predominantly affected by nutrient availability and by growing seasons as a random factor. Therefore, to improve grain quality, this study emphasizes the significance of proper nutrient and tillage methods by focusing on the intricate relationships between agronomic techniques and environmental factors that shape barley’s nutritional profile. Full article

This study presents the development of Cu-doped NiMo/TiO₂ photoelectrocatalysts for simultaneous green hydrogen production and pharmaceutical pollutant removal under simulated solar irradiation. The catalysts were synthesized via wet impregnation (15 wt.% total metal loading with 0.6 wt.% Cu) and thermally treated at 400 °C and 900 °C to investigate structural transformations and catalytic performance. Comprehensive characterization (XRD, BET, SEM, XPS) revealed phase transitions, enhanced crystallinity, and redistribution of redox states upon Cu incorporation, particularly the formation of NiTiO₃ and an increase in oxygen vacancies. Crystallite sizes for anatase, rutile, and brookite ranged from 21 to 47 nm at NiMoCu400, while NiMoCu900 exhibited only the rutile phase with 55 nm crystallites. BET analysis showed a surface area of 44.4 m²·g⁻¹ for NiMoCu400, and electrochemical measurements confirmed its higher electrochemically active surface area (ECSA, 2.4 cm²), indicating enhanced surface accessibility. In contrast, NiMoCu900 exhibited a much lower BET surface area (1.4 m²·g⁻¹) and ECSA (1.4 cm²), consistent with its inferior photoelectrocatalytic performance. Compared to previously reported binary NiMo/TiO₂ systems, the ternary NiMoCu/TiO₂ catalysts demonstrated significantly improved hydrogen production activity and more efficient photoelectrochemical degradation of paracetamol. Specifically, NiMoCu400 showed an anodic peak current of 0.24 mA·cm⁻² for paracetamol oxidation, representing a 60% increase over NiMo400 and a cathodic current of –0.46 mA·cm⁻² at –0.1 V vs. RHE under illumination, nearly six times higher than the undoped counterpart (–0.08 mA·cm⁻²). Mott–Schottky analysis further revealed that NiMoCu400 retained n-type behavior, while NiMoCu900 exhibited an unusual inversion to p-type, likely due to Cu migration and rutile-phase-induced realignment of donor states. Despite its higher photosensitivity, NiMoCu900 showed negligible photocurrent, confirming that structural preservation and surface redox activity are critical for photoelectrochemical performance. This work provides mechanistic insight into Cu-mediated photoelectrocatalysis and identifies NiMoCu/TiO₂ as a promising bifunctional platform for integrated solar-driven water treatment and sustainable hydrogen production. Full article

To prevent marine biofouling in seawater lift pumps, electrolyzed seawater containing Cu²⁺ needs to be injected into the pumps. This study employs Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to simulate the variation in Cu²⁺ injection concentration required to achieve a Cu²⁺ concentration of 3 ppb within a 10 cm range around the pump under different operating conditions, including the installation of baffles and varying seawater flow rates. The simulation results demonstrate that CFD can accurately predict the distribution of Cu2+ concentration in electrolyzed seawater, with the distribution significantly influenced by seawater flow direction, necessitating reference to upstream data. When the lift pumps are idle, the required Cu²⁺ injection concentration increases with rising seawater flow rates, reaching 41.9 μg/L at the maximum flow rate of 1.9 m/s. During alternating pump operation, the required Cu²⁺ injection concentration also increases with the flow rate, significantly affected by the pump’s operational position: lower concentrations are required when the upstream pump is active compared to the downstream pump. Additionally, installing baffles around the pumps effectively mitigates the impact of seawater flow on Cu²⁺ distribution, significantly reducing the required injection concentration. This study provides theoretical and data-driven insights for optimising marine biofouling prevention in seawater lift pumps. Full article

As a new type of alloy system composed of five or more principal components, high-entropy alloys demonstrate outstanding comprehensive performance in the field of friction and wear through the synergistic effects of the high-entropy effect, lattice distortion effect, hysteresis diffusion effect and cocktail effect. This paper systematically reviews the research progress on the friction and wear properties of high-entropy alloys. The mechanisms of metal elements such as Al, Ti, Cu and Nb through solid solution strengthening, second-phase precipitation and oxide film formation were analyzed emphatically. And non-metallic elements such as C, Si, and B form and strengthen the regulation laws of their tribological properties. The influence of working conditions, such as high temperature, ocean, and hydrogen peroxide on the friction and wear behavior of high-entropy alloys by altering the wear mechanism, was discussed. The influence of test conditions such as load, sliding velocity and friction pair matching on its friction coefficient and wear rate was expounded. It is pointed out that high-entropy alloys have significant application potential in key friction components, providing reference and guidance for the further development and application of high-entropy alloys. Full article

A facile way to prepare Cu(OH)₂ inorganic nanofiltration membranes with neatly arranged multilayers has been developed based on the reaction of a sodium hydroxide solution and a copper ammonia solution at the liquid–liquid interfaces. The effects of the concentration, temperature, and time of the liquid–liquid reaction on membrane structure and pore sizes were studied by SEM, TEM, and X-ray diffraction. The growth mechanism of the membrane was discussed and the formation process model was proposed. It was found that the reaction temperature was a key factor in obtaining a Cu(OH)₂ monolayer, and this could be used to adjust the thickness and pore size of the monolayer. The as-prepared Cu(OH)₂ membranes exhibited excellent filtration performance with the pure water fluxes of 156.2 L·m⁻² h⁻¹ bar⁻¹ and retention rates of 100% for methylene blue (50 ppm) at a pressure of 0.1 MPa. This successfully opens up a new method of synthesizing multilayer nanoarrays’ Cu(OH)₂ structure for nanofiltration. Full article

The most prevalent growth of Candida cells is based on biofilm development, which causes the intensification of antifungal resistance against a large range of chemicals. Nanoparticles can be synthesized using green methods via various biological extracts and reducing agents to control Candida biofilms. This study aims to compare copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs) synthesized through chemical methods and those synthesized using Cinnamomum verum-based green methods against Candida infections and their biofilms isolated from Iraqi patients, with the potential to improve treatment outcomes. The physical and chemical properties of these nanoparticles were characterized using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR,) scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Four strains of Candida were isolated and characterized from Iraqi patients in Tikrit Hospital and selected based on their ability to form biofilm on polystyrene microplates. The activity of green-synthesized CuONPs using cinnamon extract was compared with both undoped and doped (Fe, Sn) chemically synthesized CuONPs. Four pathogenic Candida strains (Candida glabrata, Candida lusitaniae, Candida albicans, and Candida tropicalis) were isolated from Iraqi patients, demonstrating high biofilm formation capabilities. Chemically and green-synthesized CuONPs from Cinnamomum verum showed comparable significant antiplanktonic and antibiofilm activities against all strains. Doped CuONPs with iron or tin demonstrated lower minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values, indicating stronger antibacterial activity, but exhibited weaker anti-adhesive properties compared to other nanoparticles. The antiadhesive activity revealed that C. albicans strain seems to produce the most resistant biofilms while C. glabrata strain seems to be more resistant towards the doped CuONPs. Moreover, C. tropicalis was the most sensitive to all the CuONPs. Remarkably, at a concentration of 100 µg/mL, all CuONPs were effective in eradicating preformed biofilms by 47–66%. The findings suggest that CuONPs could be effective in controlling biofilm formation by Candida species resistant to treatment in healthcare settings. Full article

Seafood contamination by heavy metals is a growing public health concern, particularly in regions like Tunisia where seafood is a major dietary component. This study assessed concentrations of cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), lead (Pb), and zinc (Zn) in the muscle tissue of the red shrimp Parapenaeus longirostris, collected in 2023 from four coastal regions: Bizerte, Monastir, Kerkennah, and Gabes. Metal analysis was conducted using flame atomic absorption spectroscopy. This species was chosen due to its ecological and economic importance. The study sites were chosen based on their differing levels of industrial, urban, and agricultural influence, providing a representative overview of regional contamination patterns. Mean concentrations were 1.04 µg/g for Zn, 0.59 µg/g for Cu, 1.56 µg/g for Pb, and 0.21 µg/g for Cd (dry weight). Pb was the most prevalent metal across sites. Statistically significant variation was observed only for Cu (p = 0.0334). All metal concentrations were below international safety limits set by FAO/WHO and the European Union. Compared to similar studies, the levels reported were similar or slightly lower. Human health risk was evaluated using target hazard quotient (THQ), hazard index (HI), and cancer risk (CR) values. For adults, THQ ranged from 5.44 × 10⁻⁶ to 8.43 × 10⁻⁴, while for children it ranged from 2.40 × 10⁻⁵ to 3.72 × 10⁻³. HI values were also well below 1, indicating negligible non-carcinogenic risk. CR values for Cd and Pb in both adults and children fell within the acceptable risk range (10⁻⁶ to <10⁻⁴), suggesting no significant carcinogenic concern. This study provides the first field-based dataset on metal contamination in P. longirostris from Tunisia, contributing valuable insights for seafood safety monitoring and public health protection. Full article

Pseudo-persistent organic pollutants, such as pharmaceuticals, personal care products (PPCPs), and organic dyes, are a major issue in current environmental engineering. Considering the limitations of traditional wastewater treatment plant methods and degradation technologies for organic pollutants, the search for new technologies more suitable for treating these new types of pollutants has become a research hotspot in recent years. Membrane filtration, adsorption, advanced oxidation, and electrochemical advanced oxidation technologies can effectively treat new organic pollutants. The electro-advanced oxidation process based on sulfate radicals is renowned for its non-selectivity, high efficiency, and environmental friendliness, and it can improve the dewatering performance of sludge after wastewater treatment. Therefore, in this study, octyl methoxycinnamate (OMC) was selected as the target pollutant. A new type of electrochemical filtration device based on the advanced oxidation process of sulfate radicals was designed, and a new type of modified carbon nanotube material electrode was synthesized to enhance its degradation effect. In a mixed system of water and acetonitrile, the efficiency of the electrochemical filtration device loaded with the modified electrode for degrading OMC is 1.54 times that at room temperature. The experimental results confirmed the superiority and application prospects of the self-designed treatment scheme for organic pollutants, providing experience and a reference for the future treatment of PPCP pollution. Full article