Background: Dementia is a major cause of dependency, disability, and mortality, characterized by a progressive cognitive decline that makes daily tasks difficult. Alzheimer's disease, a major neurodegenerative dementia, primarily affects the elderly population. Early identification and the usage of natural plant-based phytoconstituents may lower the risk and delay the advancement of the condition, even though there are presently no disease-modifying medications available.

Aim(s): This research aimed to find out the antioxidant and neuroprotective potential of plant-derived phytoconstituents for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disorder.

Methods: The Soxhlet extraction method was used to isolate the primary phytoconstituent from the plant (Colebrookea oppositifolia Sm.) using its aerial and root parts. The particular extraction technique used complies with the requirements as stated. The antioxidant potential of the plant phytoconstituent was then assessed using an in vitro antioxidant assay.

Results: The percentage yield for the plant extract carried out by using the hot continuous percolation technique (Soxhlet Extraction Method). In comparison to the aerial parts (13.80% w/w), the root extract (14.10% w/w) was found to have a higher percentage yield. During the in vitro analysis, the root extract showed higher antioxidant potential compared to the aerial extract.

Conclusion: The plant extract (root) showed significant antioxidant potential based on preliminary results, and it was chosen for further thorough research including the in vivo studies (animal study). To fully investigate its potential medicinal uses, more research is necessary, which is in a continuous phase.

Antimony (Sb) is a semi-metallic element increasingly used in vehicle brake pads, flame-retardant plastics, batteries, and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles. Despite its recognised toxicity and classification as a priority pollutant in Europe, Sb remains insufficiently monitored in urban environments. This study assessed total Sb concentrations in 137 surface soil samples from Alcalá de Henares (Spain), collected from urban parks (n=97), industrial zones (n=22), and gardens (n=18). Sb was detected in 91.8% of the samples, with significantly higher concentrations in urban soils (median: 0.352 mg/kg) than in industrial and garden areas (0.292 and 0.124 mg/kg respectively; p-value<0.05). Although values remained below regional generic reference levels, pollution indices indicated localised anthropogenic inputs. Multivariate analysis grouped Sb with Rh and Mo, suggesting common emission sources—most likely traffic and industrial activities. Spatial analysis revealed elevated Sb concentrations in urban hotspots with dense road infrastructure. Inhalation risk was characterised using the US EPA methodology and was found to be below regulatory thresholds. Nevertheless, the high coefficient of variation and significant enrichment factors in some areas highlight the heterogeneity of Sb distribution and underscore its relevance as an urban soil contaminant. Given its bioaccumulative properties, persistence, and known toxicological effects—including developmental and respiratory toxicity—this study reinforces the need for Sb to be systematically included in soil monitoring and regulatory frameworks. Particular attention should be given to urban recreational spaces and garden soils, where incidental exposure through soil ingestion or dust inhalation may affect vulnerable populations such as children.

A salophene ligand was successfully synthesized from 4-bromobenzene-1,2-diamine and 5-bromo-2-hydroxybenzaldehyde, followed by the preparation of its manganese(II), iron(II), and zinc(II) metal complexes. These compounds were thoroughly characterized using a range of physical, spectroscopic, and analytical techniques, including Infrared (IR) and UV–Visible spectroscopy, molar conductance, and magnetic susceptibility measurements. These methods confirmed the successful formation and coordination behavior of the metal complexes. To evaluate their biological relevance, the interaction of the ligand and its metal complexes with calf thymus DNA (ct-DNA) was investigated through UV–Visible titration. The binding studies revealed that the free ligand exhibited a binding constant (Kb) of 1.65 × 10⁴ M⁻¹, while the metal complexes demonstrated significantly stronger binding, with Kb values ranging from 3.32 × 10⁵ to 9.29 × 10⁵ M⁻¹, indicating strong DNA affinity and suggesting potential anticancer activity. Furthermore, in silico pharmacokinetic assessments were performed using the SwissADME and pkCSM software tools. These studies revealed that the ligand and complexes exhibited favorable lipophilicity, low fraction unbound values (0.17 F and 0.55 F, respectively), good distribution profiles, and acceptable levels of oral bioavailability. The toxicity profiles were within safe limits. Importantly, the compounds adhered to drug-likeness criteria based on the Lipinski, Veber, and Egan rules, indicating their potential as therapeutic agents against diseases such as cancer, bacterial, and fungal infections.

The deployment of swarms consisting of unmanned aerial vehicles and spacecraft has recently attracted significant attention across multiple fields, ranging from spacecraft coordination to emergency response operations. The techniques associated with swarming introduce novel challenges, especially in formulating strategies for effective swarm organization and preserving their intended formations. Developing an advanced simulation to control a swarm of 15 nanosatellites using a Linear Quadratic Regulator (LQR) involves several important steps that go beyond the initial scheme. A comprehensive approach requires a deep understanding of orbital mechanics and in particular the challenges presented by the nanosatellite platform. Our work focuses on simulating the attitude control of PARASOL nanosatellite in a swarm using the Matlab/Simulink environment. Firstly, was provided a mathematical model for the relative coordinates of a nanosatellite swarm. Secondly, a mathematical model of the LQR implementation in the relative navigation was developed. Thirdly, the attitude control of the 15 nanosatellites using the Matlab/Simulink environment was simulated. Finally, by providing the swarm scenario and attitude control system data it can be affirmed that simulation of an attitude control system for 15 nanosatellites using an LQR controller in Swarm successfully demonstrated the stabilization capabilities essential for swarm operations in space environments. As results a table each nanosatellite configured for MIMO communication was shown and the link video of the simulation was given.

This study introduces a unified thermodynamic methodology for modeling chemical reactions in heterogeneous equilibria. The approach addresses complex multicomponent systems where both soluble and insoluble species coexist, enabling accurate prediction of mineral phase formation, particularly struvite and vivianite, under variable environmental conditions. A central innovation of the method lies in its ability to account for the simultaneous precipitation of multiple insoluble metal-containing species, often governed by competitive equilibria. Additionally, the methodology introduces a generalized chemical equation that captures the overall process, including metal ion hydrolysis, complex formation, ligand protonation, and associated reactions. By integrating derived thermodynamic functions with originally developed mass balance equations for solid phases, the model reflects the coupled and dynamic nature of chemical interactions in heterogeneous systems. Special emphasis is placed on the influence of pH and the presence of competing metal ions such as calcium, sodium, and potassium, which strongly affect mineral solubility and system buffering. The methodology enables the prediction of mineral formation as a function of initial wastewater composition and environmental parameters, offering valuable insight into the conditions favorable for contaminant removal through controlled precipitation. Application of the model to real wastewater systems confirms its effectiveness in identifying optimal pH values and ionic conditions for maximizing mineral recovery. This thermodynamic framework provides a robust predictive tool for optimizing wastewater treatment processes. It reduces the need for extensive laboratory experimentation and supports the development of sustainable treatment strategies that promote resource recovery and ensure chemical stability in treated effluents.

The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) drive is accompanied by substantial advancements in the use of technological materials, resulting in massive increases in the quest for a waste-free environment. Watermelon seeds, often discarded as agricultural waste, are a readily available byproduct that can be valorized through biodiesel production, reducing waste while contributing to renewable energy goals and circularity principles. Modification of catalysts for improved biodiesel yield and quality has also been attempted through scientific experimentation. In converting watermelon seed oil to biodiesel, zeolites enhance the transesterification process by improving reactant diffusion, increasing conversion efficiency, and producing higher-purity fuel. This work aims to produce biodiesel from watermelon seed oil using a kaolin-based zeolite as a heterogeneous catalyst. This catalyst is promising for the transesterification reactions of oils due to its economic benefits. Moreso, it is environmentally benign and can be unlike homogeneous catalysts. The transesterification was optimized by varying the reaction time (45 to 105 min), methanol-to-fatty acid molar ratio (1.5:1 to 7.5:1), reaction temperature (55 to 75 °C), and catalyst concentration (0.25 to 1.25 wt%) using the Response Surface Methodology (RSM). It was found that the highest yields (92% and 90%) were achieved for both predicted and actual values, with R² values of 0.9510, respectively. Comparison of the obtained biodiesel quality with relevant ASTM standards yielded positive results, with kinematic viscosity, cetane number, flash point, and free fatty acid of 4.4 mm²/s, 62.4, 156 °C, and 0.37, respectively.

Modular construction has emerged as one of the most dynamic innovations in the building industry, offering a response to growing demands for speed, cost efficiency, and sustainability. This paper examines the global development of modular systems, with a particular focus on container-based solutions, and evaluates their impact on contemporary architecture and construction practices. Drawing on examples from the United States, Japan, Germany, and the United Kingdom, the study demonstrates how prefabricated modules have enabled the rapid delivery of residential, commercial, and public facilities, while simultaneously supporting energy efficiency and ecological goals.

The Polish perspective is highlighted through recent projects such as the Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences Faculty in Poznań and a modular hotel on the Hel Peninsula, both of which showcase the adaptability and cost-effectiveness of modular solutions. Different systems—container, panel, hybrid, and three-dimensional modules—are compared in terms of their advantages and limitations. Particular attention is paid to container-based construction, which combines high mobility and quick assembly with challenges such as insufficient thermal insulation and an unclear legal status in building regulations.

The analysis underscores that modular construction is not only a practical alternative to traditional methods but also a forward-looking strategy for sustainable urban development. Its continued progress will depend on technological innovation, mass production, and regulatory adaptation, paving the way for greater integration with renewable energy and smart building technologies.

Organophosphorus nerve agents, such as VX, pose an extreme risk due to their high dermal toxicity, environmental persistence, and rapid systemic absorption. Timely and effective decontamination is crucial for reducing exposure and minimizing health effects. This study outlines a two-phase approach to develop and validate a new surfactant-based decontamination solution, beginning with simulant testing using phorate and progressing to efficacy trials with real VX. In phase one, phorate was used as a simulant for VX in dermal exposure studies. Two prototype detergents (F1 and F2) were tested on full-thickness porcine skin using static Franz-type diffusion cells. A ¹⁴C-labelled phorate droplet was applied, followed by no treatment, water-only rinse, or detergent application using the ORCHIDS microfibre protocol. Absorption was measured via liquid scintillation counting. Phase two involved testing an optimized formulation (Formula 3), informed by the results of Phase one, against ¹⁴C-labelled VX on full-thickness human abdominal skin. Decontamination occurred 60 minutes post-application, comparing water-only and detergent treatment. Autoradiography and scintillation counting were used to quantify residual agent. In the simulant phase, both detergents significantly reduced phorate absorption compared to water or no treatment, with Formula 2 performing best by limiting wash-in effects. Subsequent VX testing showed Formula 3 significantly reduced residual agent on the skin surface compared to water alone, indicating effective decontamination under realistic exposure conditions. This two-stage research strategy demonstrates that simulant screening is a valuable tool for optimizing decontamination solutions. The final detergent formulation provides an effective countermeasure for dermal exposure to VX, with potential applications in defense and civilian emergency response.

Fragility Curves are crucial for understanding the vulnerability of buildings and constructions to earthquake-induced damage. They graphically represent the probability of a structure reaching or exceeding various damage states as a function of seismic intensity, aiding in developing effective retrofitting and modification strategies for risk reduction, insurance planning, and/or policy decisions. Fragility curves enable expedited assessment, which can serve as a rapid pre-selection criterion for massive datasets of civil structures and infrastructures. In this sense, they can be used as a ‘pre-screening’ tool for asset selection; the ones deemed more at risk can then be passed to more focused, structure-specific, and detailed analyses, or even selected for continuous monitoring and/or seismic amelioration. This approach is especially valuable in large-scale urban and regional studies, where assessing the seismic vulnerability of numerous structures individually would be extremely time-consuming and resource-intensive.

This study presents an innovative approach to assessing seismic risk by utilizing the Generalized Extreme Value (GEV) distribution to empirically model these curves, rather than the more conventional lognormal approach. Building on the sets of fragility curves developed by Rosti et al. in previous independent studies, this research work compares the newly developed curves, obtained using Python-based tools and real data from the Da.D.O. (Database of Observed Damage) platform, to these benchmarks and evaluates similarities and differences from them. This study aims to provide a more accurate and practical framework for rapid seismic risk assessment and informed decision-making by combining empirical modeling with real observed damage data.

Background: The rapid rise of multidrug-resistant bacteria is undermining conventional antibiotics, driving the search for novel scaffolds. Pongamia pinnata, a leguminous medicinal plant rich in flavonoids, karanjin, and pongamol, represents an untapped source of antibacterial leads with strong translational potential.

Methods: Bioactive fractions from P. pinnata seeds and leaves were extracted using methanol and ethyl acetate, followed by LC-MS and NMR characterization. Antibacterial activity was assessed against MDR Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli via CLSI-standard broth microdilution. Biofilm formation and eradication assays were quantified by crystal violet staining and confocal microscopy. Synergy with ceftriaxone and azithromycin was tested using checkerboard and time–kill kinetics. BALB/c mice infected with MDR S. aureus were used for in vivo efficacy and toxicity evaluation.

Results: P. pinnata fractions showed strong antibacterial effects, with MICs of 16 µg/mL (S. aureus), 32 µg/mL (P. aeruginosa), and 24 µg/mL (E. coli). Biofilm inhibition exceeded 72% at sub-MIC levels, while eradication of mature biofilms reached 61% at 32 µg/mL. Synergistic assays revealed marked potentiation with ceftriaxone (FICI 0.34) and azithromycin (FICI 0.39), reducing effective antibiotic concentrations by fourfold. In vivo, alkaloid-rich fractions (50 mg/kg, i.p.) improved survival to 78% versus 18% in controls and reduced bacterial loads in spleen and liver by >2.5 log CFU. Histological analysis confirmed no acute toxicity in major organs.

Conclusion: Pongamia pinnata phytochemicals exhibit robust antibacterial, anti-biofilm, and synergistic activity with conventional antibiotics, validated by in vivo efficacy. These results position P. pinnata as a powerful natural reservoir for developing next-generation antibacterial leads against MDR pathogens.