bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Ionic Liquid, 1-Ethyl-3-methylimidazolium Chloride ([EMIM]Cl), on the Material and Electrical Characteristics of Asphaltene Thin Films
Authors: Thulasiraman Sundarajoo , Yunus Noor Mona Md , Kumar Pradeep , Kesuma Zayyan Rafi , Norhakim Nadia , Wilfred Cecilia Devi , Roffi Teuku Muhammad , Hamdan Mohamad Faizal , Burhanudin Zainal Arif
Published: April 2022

Asphaltene is a component of crude oil that has remained relatively unexplored for organic electronic applications. In this study, we report on its extraction technique from crude oil tank bottom sludge (COTBS) and its thin-film characteristics when 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride ([EMIM]Cl) ionic liquid (IL) was introduced as dopants. The extraction technique yielded asphaltene with more than 80% carbon content. The IL resulted in asphaltene thin films with a typical root-mean-square surface roughness of 4 nm, suitable for organic electronic applications. The thin films each showed an optical band gap of 3.8 eV and a sheet resistance as low as 105 Ω/□. When the film was used as a conductive layer in organic field-effect transistors (OFET), it exhibited hole and electron conduction with hole (µh) and electron (µe) mobilities in the order of 10−8 and 10−6 cm2/Vs, respectively. These characteristics are just preliminary in nature. With the right IL, asphaltene thin films may become a good alternative for a transport layer in organic electronic applications.
Effective Anti-Oxidation Repair Coating for C/C Brake Materials Comprising Lead-Borosilicate and Bismuth-Borosilicate Glass
Authors: Deng Mengjia , Xia Xiaoyu , Deng Juanli , Hu Kaiyue , Luan Chenghua , Ma Xu , Fan Shangwu , Wang Peng
Published: April 2022

To achieve effective antioxidation of on-site repair coating for C/C brake materials in the full temperature range (500–900 °C), lead glass and bismuth glass were introduced into the borosilicate glass to acquire the protective coatings. Before preparing coating samples, the thermal gravity characteristics of the lead/bismuth–borosilicate glass powders were analyzed by TG/DSC. The results revealed that the temperature at which weight gain begins was 495 °C and 545 °C, respectively. The oxidation behaviors of the lead- and bismuth-modified borosilicate glass coatings were compared at 500 °C, and the antioxidation properties of the former were further examined from 500 to 900 °C. The oxidation results indicated that mixing lead glass with borosilicate glass realized effective oxidation resistance in the full temperature range. With a lead content of 20%, the lead–borosilicate glass coating was able to protect C/C substrates from oxidation. The corresponding weight loss of the lead-glass-coated samples was −1.89% when oxidized at 500 °C for 10 h, while the weight loss was −2.55% when further oxidized at 900 °C for 10 h. However, mixing bismuth glass with borosilicate glass was difficult to achieve the oxidation resistance of the coating at 500 °C due to the significant phase separation.
Mechanical Experiments on Concrete with Hybrid Fiber Reinforcement for Structural Rehabilitation
Authors: Shahid Muhammad Asharib , Rashid Muhammad Usman , Ali Nazam , Chaiyasarn Krisada , Joyklad Panuwat , Hussain Qudeer
Published: April 2022

Reinforced concrete is used in the construction of bridges, buildings, retaining walls, roads, and other engineered structures. Due to seismic activities, a lot of structures develop seismic cracks. The rehabilitation of such structures is necessary for public safety. The overall aim of this research study was to produce a high-performance hybrid fiber-reinforced concrete (HPHFRC) with enhanced properties as compared to plain high-performance concrete and high-performance fiber-reinforced concrete (HPFRC) for the rehabilitation of bridges and buildings. Kevlar fibers (KF) and glass fibers (GF) with lengths of 35 mm and 25 mm, respectively, were added and hybridized to 1.5% by mass of cement to create hybrid fiber-reinforced concrete mixes. Eight mixes were cast in total. The compressive strength (f′c), flexural strength (fr), splitting tensile strength (fs), and other mechanical properties, i.e., energy absorption and toughness index values, were enhanced in HPHFRC as compared to CM and HPFRC. It was found that the concrete hybridized with 0.75% KF and 0.75% GF (HF-G 0.75 K 0.75) had the most enhanced overall mechanical properties, illustrating its potential to be utilized in the rehabilitation of bridges and structures.
Mechanical Performance and Precipitation Behavior in Al-Si-Cu-Mg Cast Alloys: Effect of Prolonged Thermal Exposure
Authors: Abdelaziz Mohamed H. , Samuel Agnes M. , Doty Herbert W. , Songmene Victor , Samuel Fawzy H.
Published: April 2022

Al-Si-Cu-Mg cast (354) alloys are used in the automotive sector owing to their remarkable properties which are achievable after applying appropriate thermal treatments. Zirconium, Nickel, and Manganese were added to this category of Al-alloys to preserve good mechanical properties while being exposed to elevated temperatures for long times. The ultimate and yield strength values obtained at room temperature for the stabilized (thermally-exposed) T5-treated condition were comparable to those of the stabilized T6-treated condition, whereas the same properties for T5-treated alloys were higher than those of T6-treated ones for elevated-temperature tensile testing. Interestingly, the results showed that the addition of 0.75 wt.% Mn was competitive with the addition of 2 and 4 wt.% Ni with respect to the elevated-temperature and ambient temperature strength values, respectively. In addition, the Mn-containing alloy M3S exhibited improved ductility values at ambient temperature and at 250 °C, compared to the Ni-containing alloys. Examination of the fracture surface of tested samples revealed the advantageous role of sludge particles in enhancing the performance of Mn-containing alloys through their resistance to the propagation of cracks that developed in many intermetallic phases. This finding is considered to be economically significant in view of the lower price of manganese compared to that of nickel.
Effects of Harvest Maturity on the Chemical and Energetic Properties of Corn Stover Biomass Combustion
Authors: Wojcieszak Dawid , Przybył Jacek , Czajkowski Łukasz , Majka Jerzy , Pawłowski Artur
Published: April 2022

Over the last decade, there has been increased interest in applying biomass as a raw material for producing biofuels used for thermochemical conversions. Extensive use of biomass could lead to controversial competition for arable land, water, and food; therefore, only waste materials and agricultural by-products and residues should be used to produce biofuels. One suitable by-product of agricultural production is crop residue from the harvest of maize for grain (corn stover). The harvest residues of corn stover consist of four fractions, i.e., husks, leaves, cobs, and stalks, which are structurally and morphologically distinct. The aim of the study was to determine the effect of selected maize cultivars with distinct FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations) earliness classifications on the chemical and energetic properties of their corn cob cores. We determined the chemical properties based on elemental analysis, and the energy properties based on the heat of combustion and calorific values. The content of ash and volatile compounds in the corn cobs were also determined. The results indicated that the heat of combustion of fresh and seasoned corn cob cores ranged from 7.62–10.79 MJ/kg and 16.19–16.53 MJ/kg, respectively. The heat of combustion and calorific value of corn cob cores in the fresh state differed significantly and were strongly correlated with maize cultivars with distinct FAO earliness.
Dry Sliding Tribological Behaviors of Electrodeposited Ni-GO/SiC Composite Coating on the 2218 Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Yan Yutao , Lu Lifeng , Huo Yuqiu
Published: April 2022

Electrodeposition has attracted tremendous interest in functional coatings due to its advantages of high efficiency, inexpensiveness and ease of implementation. In this work, nickel graphene oxide (Ni-GO), nickel silicon carbide (Ni-SiC) and nickel graphene oxide/silicon carbide (Ni-GO/SiC) composite coatings were electrodeposited on the 2218 aluminum alloy (2218AlA) substrate. The microstructure, microhardness, bonding strength and tribological behaviors of the composite coatings were carried out. According to the results obtained, the composite coatings were dense and compact, with no visible defects and microcracks, and well bonded to 2218AlA substrate. The microhardness of composite coatings was significantly increased compared to that of the 2218AlA substrate. The microhardness of Ni-SiC composite coating was the highest, reaching 3.14 times that of the 2218AlA substrate. The friction response time, friction coefficient and wear rate of the composite coatings were obviously lower. For the Ni-GO composite coating, the average friction coefficient is the smallest at 45.35% of the 2218AlA substrate, while the wear rate is the smallest at 46.97% of the 2218AlA substrate. However, the comprehensive tribological performances of the Ni-GO/SiC composite coating were superior. The abrasive and adhesive wear were the main wear mechanisms of composite coatings, but the degree of damage was different.
The Impact of the Matricaria chamomilla L. Extract, Starch Solution and the Photoinitiator on Physiochemical Properties of Acrylic Hydrogels
Authors: Jamroży Mateusz , Głąb Magdalena , Kudłacik-Kramarczyk Sonia , Drabczyk Anna , Gajda Paweł , Tyliszczak Bożena
Published: April 2022

Matricaria chamomilla L. extract is well-known for its therapeutic properties; thus, it shows potential to be used to modify materials designed for biomedical purposes. In this paper, acrylic hydrogels modified with this extract were prepared. The other modifier was starch introduced into the hydrogel matrix in two forms: room-temperature solution and elevated-temperature solution. Such hydrogels were synthesized via UV radiation, while two types of photoinitiator were used: 2-hydroxy-2-methylpropiophenone or phenylbis(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl) phosphine oxide. The main task of performed research was to verify the impact of particular modifiers and photoinitiator on physicochemical properties of hydrogels. Studies involved determining their swelling ability, elasticity, chemical structure via FTIR spectroscopy and surface morphology via the SEM technique. Incubation of hydrogels in simulated physiological liquids, studies on the release of chamomile extract from their matrix and their biological analysis via MTT assay were also performed. It was demonstrated that all investigated variables affected the physicochemical properties of hydrogels. The modification of hydrogels with chamomile extract reduced their absorbency, decreased their thermal stability and increased the cell viability incubated with this material by 15%. Next, hydrogels obtained by using phenylbis(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl) phosphine oxide as a photoinitiator showed lower absorbency, more compact structure, better stability in SBF and a more effective release of chamomile extract compared to the materials prepared by using 2-hydroxy-2-methylpropiophenone. It was proved that, by applying adequate reagents, including both photoinitiator and modifiers, it is possible to obtain hydrogels with variable properties that will positively affect their application potential.
Size and Shape’s Effects on the High-Pressure Behavior of WS2 Nanomaterials
Authors: Yue Lei , Xu Dan , Wei Ziyu , Zhao Tingting , Lin Tao , Tenne Reshef , Zak Alla , Li Quanjun , Liu Bingbing
Published: April 2022

Exploring the behavior of nanocrystals with varying shapes and sizes under high pressure is crucial to understanding the relationship between the morphology and properties of nanomaterials. In this study, we investigated the compression behaviors of WS2 nanotubes (NT-WS2) and fullerene-like nanoparticles (IF-WS2) by in situ high-pressure X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy. It was found that the bulk modulus of NT-WS2 is 81.7 GPa, which is approximately twice as large as that of IF-WS2 (46.3 GPa). This might be attributed to the fact that IF-WS2 with larger d-spacing along the c-axis and higher defect density are more compressible under isotropic pressure than NT-WS2. Thus, the slender NT-WS2 possess a more stable crystal structure than the IF-WS2. Our findings reveal that the effects of morphology and size play crucial roles in determining the high-pressure properties of WS2 nanoparticles, and provide significant insight into the relationship between structure and properties.
Integration of Design, Manufacturing, and Service Based on Digital Twin to Realize Intelligent Manufacturing
Authors: Zhang Luyao , Feng Lijie , Wang Jinfeng , Lin Kuo-Yi
Published: April 2022

Complex product design, manufacturing, and service are the key elements of a product’s life cycle. However, the traditional manufacturing processes of design, manufacturing, and service are independent of each other, so lack deep integration. The emergence of digital twins offers an opportunity to accelerate the integration of complex product design, manufacturing, and services. For intelligent manufacturing, physical entity and virtual entity transformation can be realized through digital information. A collaborative framework for complex product design, manufacturing, and service integration based on digital twin technology was proposed. The solutions of process integration, data flow, modeling and simulation, and information fusion were analyzed. The core characteristics and key technologies of service-oriented manufacturing, design for service and manufacturing, and manufacturing monitoring based on the deep integration of the digital twin were discussed. Finally, the feasibility of the framework was verified by a self-balancing multistage pump manufacturing case. The performance of the upgraded pump under the framework was tested, and the test results proved the effectiveness of the integrated framework.
A Cox Proportional-Hazards Model Based on an Improved Aquila Optimizer with Whale Optimization Algorithm Operators
Authors: Ewees Ahmed A. , Algamal Zakariya Yahya , Abualigah Laith , Al-qaness Mohammed A. A. , Yousri Dalia , Ghoniem Rania M. , Abd Elaziz Mohamed
Published: April 2022

Recently, a new optimizer, called the Aquila Optimizer (AO), was developed to solve different optimization problems. Although the AO has a significant performance in various problems, like other optimization algorithms, the AO suffers from certain limitations in its search mechanism, such as local optima stagnation and convergence speed. This is a general problem that faces almost all optimization problems, which can be solved by enhancing the search process of an optimizer using an assistant search tool, such as using hybridizing with another optimizer or applying other search techniques to boost the search capability of an optimizer. Following this concept to address this critical problem, in this paper, we present an alternative version of the AO to alleviate the shortcomings of the traditional one. The main idea of the improved AO (IAO) is to use the search strategy of the Whale Optimization Algorithm (WOA) to boost the search process of the AO. Thus, the IAO benefits from the advantages of the AO and WOA, and it avoids the limitations of the local search as well as losing solutions diversity through the search process. Moreover, we apply the developed IAO optimization algorithm as a feature selection technique using different benchmark functions. More so, it is tested with extensive experimental comparisons to the traditional AO and WOA algorithms, as well as several well-known optimizers used as feature selection techniques, like the particle swarm optimization (PSO), differential evaluation (DE), mouth flame optimizer (MFO), firefly algorithm, and genetic algorithm (GA). The outcomes confirmed that the using of the WOA operators has a significant impact on the AO performance. Thus the combined IAO obtained better results compared to other optimizers.
CAC: A Learning Context Recognition Model Based on AI for Handwritten Mathematical Symbols in e-Learning Systems
Authors: Baek Sung-Bum , Shon Jin-Gon , Park Ji-Su
Published: April 2022

The e-learning environment should support the handwriting of mathematical expressions and accurately recognize inputted handwritten mathematical expressions. To this end, expression-related information should be fully utilized in e-learning environments. However, pre-existing handwritten mathematical expression recognition models mainly utilize the shape of handwritten mathematical symbols, thus limiting the models from improving the recognition accuracy of a vaguely represented symbol. Therefore, in this paper, a context-aided correction (CAC) model is proposed that adjusts an output of handwritten mathematical symbol (HMS) recognition by additionally utilizing information related to the HMS in an e-learning system. The CAC model collects learning contextual data associated with the HMS and converts them into learning contextual information. Next, contextual information is recognized through artificial intelligence to adjust the recognition output of the HMS. Finally, the CAC model is trained and tested using a dataset similar to that of a real learning situation. The experiment results show that the recognition accuracy of handwritten mathematical symbols is improved when using the CAC model.
On Optimal Settings for a Family of Runge–Kutta-Based Power-Flow Solvers Suitable for Large-Scale Ill-Conditioned Cases
Authors: Tostado-Véliz Marcos , Alharbi Talal , Alharbi Hisham , Kamel Salah , Jurado Francisco
Published: April 2022

Growing demand, interconnection of multiple systems, and difficulty in upgrading existing infrastructures are limiting the capabilities of conventional computational tools employed in power system analysis. Recent studies manifest the importance of efficiently solving well- and ill-conditioned Power-Flow cases in a modern power-system paradigm. While the well-conditioned cases are easily solvable using standard methods, the ill-conditioned ones suppose a challenge for such solvers. In this regard, methods based on the Continuous Newton’s principle have demonstrated their ability to address ill-conditioned cases with acceptable efficiency. This paper demonstrates that the approaches proposed so far do not extract the best numerical properties of such solvers. To fill this gap, an optimization framework is proposed by which the parameters involved in the two-stage Runge–Kutta-based solvers are appropriately set, so that the stability and convergence order of the numerical mapping are maximized. By using the developed optimization technique, three solvers with quadratic, cubic, and 4th order of convergence are developed. The new proposals are tested on a variety of large-scale ill-conditioned cases. Results obtained were promising, outperforming other conventional and robust approaches.
Mitigating the Multicollinearity Problem and Its Machine Learning Approach: A Review
Authors: Chan Jireh Yi-Le , Leow Steven Mun Hong , Bea Khean Thye , Cheng Wai Khuen , Phoong Seuk Wai , Hong Zeng-Wei , Chen Yen-Lin
Published: April 2022

Technologies have driven big data collection across many fields, such as genomics and business intelligence. This results in a significant increase in variables and data points (observations) collected and stored. Although this presents opportunities to better model the relationship between predictors and the response variables, this also causes serious problems during data analysis, one of which is the multicollinearity problem. The two main approaches used to mitigate multicollinearity are variable selection methods and modified estimator methods. However, variable selection methods may negate efforts to collect more data as new data may eventually be dropped from modeling, while recent studies suggest that optimization approaches via machine learning handle data with multicollinearity better than statistical estimators. Therefore, this study details the chronological developments to mitigate the effects of multicollinearity and up-to-date recommendations to better mitigate multicollinearity.
A Novel Intelligent ANFIS for the Dynamic Model of Photovoltaic Systems
Authors: Ramadan Abdelhady , Kamel Salah , Hamdan I. , Agwa Ahmed M.
Published: April 2022

Developing accurate models for photovoltaic (PV) systems has a significant impact on the evaluation of the accuracy and testing of PV systems. Artificial intelligence (AI) is the science of developing machine jobs to be more intelligent, similar to the human brain. Involving AI techniques in modeling has a significant modification in the accuracy of the developed models. In this paper, a novel dynamic PV model based on AI is proposed. The proposed dynamic PV model was designed based on an adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS). ANFIS is a combination of a neural network and a fuzzy system; thus, it has the advantages of both techniques. The design process is well discussed. Several types of membership functions, different numbers of training, and different numbers of membership functions are tested via MATLAB simulations until the AI requirements of the ANFIS model are satisfied. The obtained model is evaluated by comparing the model accuracy with the classical dynamic models proposed in the literature. The root mean square error (RMSE) of the real PV system output current is compared with the output current of the proposed PV model. The ANFIS model is trained based on input–output data captured from a real PV system under specified irradiance and temperature conditions. The proposed model is compared with classical dynamic PV models such as the integral-order model (IOM) and fractional-order model (FOM), which have been proposed in the literature. The use of ANFIS to model dynamic PV systems achieves an accurate dynamic PV model in comparison with the classical dynamic IOM and FOM.
Option Contracts in Fresh Produce Supply Chain with Freshness-Keeping Effort
Authors: Jia Deng , Wang Chong
Published: April 2022

This study investigates a supply chain of fresh produce with consideration of option contracts and where stochastic market demand depends on freshness-keeping effort. Firstly, we investigate a benchmark scenario of an integrated supply chain with freshness effort and consideration of decreases in both the quality and quantity of produce while in the supply chain. Secondly, we introduce call, put, and bidirectional option contracts to mitigate risks of the retailer. A call option contract can reduce the underage risk, while a put option contract can reduce the overage risk, and a bidirectional option contract can reduce bilateral risks. We derive the optimal ordering decisions and freshness-keeping effort for a retailer in a supply chain of fresh produce with option contracts, and the conditions for achieving coordination of the supply chain. We find that the bidirectional option results in the highest option price and lowest option order quantity, while the call option results in the lowest initial order quantity and the put option results in the highest initial order quantity. Finally, numerical examples are given to demonstrate the impacts of various parameters on optimal decision-making. This paper provides managerial insights for reducing risk in fresh produce supply chains.
Protective Effects of Marine Alkaloid Neolamellarin A Derivatives against Glutamate Induced PC12 Cell Apoptosis
Authors: Zhang Kai , Guan Xian , Zhang Xiao , Liu Lu , Yin Ruijuan , Jiang Tao
Published: April 2022

Marine alkaloids obtained from sponges possess a variety of biological activities and potential medicinal value. The pyrrole-derived lamellarin-like alkaloids, especially their permethyl derivatives, show low cytotoxicity and potent MDR reversing activity. Neolamellarin A is a novel lamellarin-like alkaloid which was extracted from marine animal sponges. We reported the synthetic method of permethylated Neolamellarin A and its derivatives by a convergent strategy in 2015. In 2018, we reported the synthesis and the neuroprotective activity in PC12 cells of 3,4-bisaryl-N-alkylated permethylated Neolamellarin A derivatives. In this report, another series of 15 different 3,4-bisaryl-N-acylated permethylated Neolamellarin A derivatives were synthesized, and the outstanding protective effects of these compounds against glutamate induced PC12 cell apoptosis were presented and discussed. These Neolamellarin A derivatives which possessed low cytotoxicity and superior neuroprotective activity may have the potential to be developed into antagonists against glutamate induced nerve cell apoptosis.
Metabolites and Biomarker Compounds of Neurodegenerative Diseases in Cerebrospinal Fluid
Authors: Wakamatsu Keiji , Chiba Yoichi , Murakami Ryuta , Miyai Yumi , Matsumoto Koichi , Kamada Masaki , Nonaka Wakako , Uemura Naoya , Yanase Ken , Ueno Masaki
Published: April 2022

Despite recent advances in diagnostic procedures for neurological disorders, it is still difficult to definitively diagnose some neurodegenerative diseases without neuropathological examination of autopsied brain tissue. As pathological processes in the brain are frequently reflected in the components of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), CSF samples are sometimes useful for diagnosis. After CSF is secreted from the choroid plexus epithelial cells in the ventricles, some flows in the brain, some is mixed with intracerebral interstitial fluid, and some is excreted through two major drainage pathways, i.e., the intravascular periarterial drainage pathway and the glymphatic system. Accordingly, substances produced by metabolic and pathological processes in the brain may be detectable in CSF. Many papers have reported changes in the concentration of substances in the CSF of patients with metabolic and neurological disorders, some of which can be useful biomarkers of the disorders. In this paper, we show the significance of glucose- and neurotransmitter-related CSF metabolites, considering their transporters in the choroid plexus; summarize the reported candidates of CSF biomarkers for neurodegenerative diseases, including amyloid-β, tau, α-synuclein, microRNAs, and mitochondrial DNA; and evaluate their potential as efficient diagnostic tools.
Road Salt versus Urban Snow Effects on Lake Microbial Communities
Authors: Fournier Isabelle , Lovejoy Connie , Vincent Warwick
Published: April 2022

Freshwater salinization is an ongoing concern for north temperate lakes; however, little is known about its impacts on microbial communities, particularly for bacteria. We tested the hypotheses that road de-icing salt induces changes in the microbial community structure of lake plankton, and that changes due to chloride would differ from those due to urban snowmelt because of additional chemicals in the snowmelt. In a laboratory incubator experiment, an overwintering plankton community in lake water was exposed for two weeks to either NaCl or municipal road snow with the same level of chloride. Microbial community structure as determined by 16S (prokaryotes) and 18S (eukaryotes) rRNA transcript analysis showed changes in response to the chloride-only enrichment, with some rare taxa becoming more prominent. Consistent with our hypothesis, the salt and the snow treatments induced different community changes. These results indicate that ecotoxicology assays based on a single salt addition may not reflect the in situ effects of salt-contaminated urban snow, and that the combined chemical effects of urban snowmelt require direct testing.
Model Predictive Control: Demand-Orientated, Load-Flexible, Full-Scale Biogas Production
Authors: Dittmer Celina , Ohnmacht Benjamin , Krümpel Johannes , Lemmer Andreas
Published: April 2022

Biogas plants have the great advantage that they produce electricity according to demand and can thus compensate for fluctuating production from weather-dependent sources such as wind power and photovoltaics. A prerequisite for flexible biogas plant operation is a suitable feeding strategy for an adjusted conversion of biomass into biogas. This research work is the first to demonstrate a practical, integrated model predictive control (MPC) for load-flexible, demand-orientated biogas production and the results show promising options for practical application on almost all full-scale biogas plants with no or only minor adjustments to the standardly existing measurement technology. Over an experimental period of 36 days, the biogas production of a full-scale plant was adjusted to the predicted electricity demand of a “real-world laboratory”. Results with a mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) of less than 20% when comparing biogas demand and production were consistently obtained.
Spread of West Nile Virus and Usutu Virus in the German Bird Population, 2019–2020
Authors: Ziegler Ute , Bergmann Felicitas , Fischer Dominik , Müller Kerstin , Holicki Cora M. , Sadeghi Balal , Sieg Michael , Keller Markus , Schwehn Rebekka , Reuschel Maximilian , Fischer Luisa , Krone Oliver , Rinder Monika , Schütte Karolin , Schmidt Volker , Eiden Martin , Fast Christine , Günther Anne , Globig Anja , Conraths Franz J. , Staubach Christoph , Brandes Florian , Lierz Michael , Korbel Rüdiger , Vahlenkamp Thomas W. , Groschup Martin H.
Published: April 2022

West Nile virus (WNV) and Usutu virus (USUV) are important flaviviruses circulating in Germany. While USUV was first reported more than 10 years ago, WNV has only reached the country in 2018. Wild birds are important amplifying hosts for both viruses. Therefore, we have been monitoring the bird population in different regions of Germany by a previously established network for many years. This report summarizes the results of molecular and/or serological methods of 2345 blood samples from birds of 22 different orders and over 2900 bird carcasses from 2019 and 2020. USUV RNA circulation was found in different regions of Germany, with emphasis on USUV lineages Europe 3 and Africa 3. Increased evidence of USUV lineage Europe 2 was detected in eastern Germany. WNV RNA was found only in birds from the eastern part of the country. The seroprevalence for USUV was between 3.11% and 7.20% in all three regions investigated, whereas the WNV seroprevalence spanned from 14.77% to 16.15% in eastern Germany, with a noticeable tendency for a westward and southward expansion in both years. Thus, wild bird monitoring for WNV and USUV can serve as an early warning system for a human exposure risk.
High Genetic Diversity and Antimicrobial Resistance in Escherichia coli Highlight Arapaima gigas (Pisces: Arapaimidae) as a Reservoir of Quinolone-Resistant Strains in Brazilian Amazon Rivers
Authors: Lima Luciana Sampaio , Proietti-Junior Aldo Aparecido , Rodrigues Yan Corrêa , da Silva Vieira Marcelo Cleyton , Lima Luana Nepomuceno Gondim Costa , de Oliveira Souza Cintya , Dias Gonçalves Verônica , de Oliveira Lima Marcelo , dos Prazeres Rodrigues Dália , Lima Karla Valéria Batista
Published: April 2022

The increasing prevalence of multi-drug resistant (MDR) Escherichia coli in distinct ecological niches, comprising water sources and food-producing animals, such as fish species, has been widely reported. In the present study, quinolone-resistant E. coli isolates from Arapirama gigas, a major fish species in the Brazilian Amazon rivers and fish farms, were characterized regarding their antimicrobial susceptibility, virulence, and genetic diversity. A total of forty (40) specimens of A. gigas, including 20 farmed and 20 wild fish, were included. Thirty-four quinolone-resistant E. coli isolates were phenotypically tested by broth microdilution, while resistance and virulence genes were detected by PCR. Molecular epidemiology and genetic relatedness were analyzed by MLST and PFGE typing. The majority of isolates were classified as MDR and detected harboring blaCTX-M, qnrA and qnrB genes. Enterotoxigenic E. coli pathotype (ETEC) isolates were presented in low prevalence among farmed animals. MLST and PFGE genotyping revealed a wide genetic background, including the detection of internationally spread clones. The obtained data point out A. gigas as a reservoir in Brazilian Amazon aquatic ecosystems and warns of the interference of AMR strains in wildlife and environmental matrices.
Linagliptin, a Selective Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 Inhibitor, Reduces Physical and Behavioral Effects of Morphine Withdrawal
Authors: Listos Joanna , Listos Piotr , Baranowska-Bosiacka Irena , Karpiuk Agata , Filarowska Joanna , Łupina Małgorzata , Słowik Tymoteusz , Zawiślak Sylwia , Kotlińska Jolanta
Published: April 2022

(1) Background: Recent data indicate that receptors for GLP-1 peptide are involved in the activity of the mesolimbic system. Thus, the purpose of the present study was to examine the effect of the selective dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor, linagliptin, on morphine dependence in mice. (2) Methods: Morphine dependence in mice was obtained by administration of increasing doses of morphine for eight consecutive days, twice a day. On the 9th day of the experiment, the naloxone-induced (2 mg/kg, ip) morphine withdrawal signs (jumping) were assessed. Moreover, behavioral effects of short-term (60 h after morphine discontinuation) and long-term (14 days after morphine discontinuation) morphine withdrawal were observed. In terms of behavioral effects, the depressive effect in the forced swim test and anxiety in the elevated plus maze test were investigated. Locomotor activity of mice was also studied. (3) Results: The administration of linagliptin (10 and 20 mg/kg, ip) for 8 consecutive days before morphine injections significantly diminished the number of naloxone-induced morphine withdrawal signs (jumping) in mice. In addition, the cessation of morphine administration induced depressive behavior in mice which were observed during short- and long-term morphine withdrawal. Linagliptin administered during morphine withdrawal significantly reduced the depressive behavior in studied mice. Furthermore, the short-term morphine withdrawal evoked anxiety which also was reduced by linagliptin in mice. (4) Conclusions: The present study reveals that GLP-1 receptors are involved in morphine dependence. What is more, linagliptin might be a valuable drug in attenuating the physical symptoms of morphine dependence. It might be also a useful drug in reducing emotional disturbances which may develop during the morphine withdrawal period.
Electrochemical Synthesis of Plasmonic Nanostructures
Authors: Piaskowski Joshua , Bourret Gilles R.
Published: April 2022

Thanks to their tunable and strong interaction with light, plasmonic nanostructures have been investigated for a wide range of applications. In most cases, controlling the electric field enhancement at the metal surface is crucial. This can be achieved by controlling the metal nanostructure size, shape, and location in three dimensions, which is synthetically challenging. Electrochemical methods can provide a reliable, simple, and cost-effective approach to nanostructure metals with a high degree of geometrical freedom. Herein, we review the use of electrochemistry to synthesize metal nanostructures in the context of plasmonics. Both template-free and templated electrochemical syntheses are presented, along with their strengths and limitations. While template-free techniques can be used for the mass production of low-cost but efficient plasmonic substrates, templated approaches offer an unprecedented synthetic control. Thus, a special emphasis is given to templated electrochemical lithographies, which can be used to synthesize complex metal architectures with defined dimensions and compositions in one, two and three dimensions. These techniques provide a spatial resolution down to the sub-10 nanometer range and are particularly successful at synthesizing well-defined metal nanoscale gaps that provide very large electric field enhancements, which are relevant for both fundamental and applied research in plasmonics.
Dicationic Bis-Pyridinium Hydrazone-Based Amphiphiles Encompassing Fluorinated Counteranions: Synthesis, Characterization, TGA-DSC, and DFT Investigations
Authors: Aljuhani Ateyatallah , Rezki Nadjet , Al-Sodies Salsabeel , Messali Mouslim , ElShafei Gamal M. S. , Hagar Mohamed , Aouad Mohamed R.
Published: April 2022

Quaternization and metathesis approaches were used to successfully design and synthesize the targeted dicationic bis-dipyridinium hydrazones carrying long alkyl side chain extending from C8 to C18 as countercation, and attracted to halide (I-) or fluorinated ion (PF6-, BF4-, CF3COO-) as counteranion. Spectroscopic characterization using NMR and mass spectroscopy was used to establish the structures of the formed compounds. In addition, their thermal properties were investigated utilizing thermogravimetric analyses (TGA), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The thermal study illustrated that regardless of the alkyl group length (Cn) or the attracted anions, the thermograms of the tested derivatives are composed of three stages. The mode of thermal decomposition demonstrates the important roles of both anion and alkyl chain length. Longer chain length results in greater van der Waals forces; meanwhile, with anions of low nucleophilicity, it could also decrease the intramolecular electrostatic interaction, which leads to an overall interaction decrease and lower thermal stability. The DFT theoretical calculations have been carried out to investigate the thermal stability in terms of the Tonset. The results revealed that the type of the counteranion and chain length had a substantial impact on thermal stability, which was presumably related to the degree of intermolecular interactions. However, the DFT results illustrated that there is no dominant parameter affecting the thermal stability, but rather a cumulative effect of many factors of different extents.
Self-Assembled Monolayer of Monomercaptoundecahydro-closo-dodecaborate on a Polycrystalline Gold Surface
Authors: Jiménez-González Martha L. , Rebolledo-Chávez Juan Pablo F. , Cruz-Ramírez Marisela , Antaño René , Mendoza Angel , Hosmane Narayan S. , Ruiz-Azuara Lena , Hernández-López José Luis , Ortiz-Frade Luis
Published: April 2022

In this work, we present an electrochemical study of the boron cage monomercaptoundecahydro-closo-dodecaborate [B12H11SH]2− in solution and in a self-assembled monolayer over a polycrystalline gold electrode. Cyclic voltammetry of the anion [B12H11SH]2− in solution showed a shift in the peak potentials related to the redox processes of gold hydroxides, which evidences the interaction between the boron cage and the gold surface. For an Au electrode modified with the anion [B12H11SH]2−, cyclic voltammetry response of the probe Fe(CN)63−/Fe(CN)64− showed a ΔEp value typical for a surface modification. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy presented Rtc and Cdl values related to the formation of a self-assembled monolayer (SAM). A comparison of electrochemical responses of a modified electrode with thioglycolic acid (TGA) reveals that the boron cage [B12H11SH]2− diminishes the actives sites over the Au surface due to the steric effects. Differential capacitance measurements for bare gold electrode and those modified with [B12H11SH]2− and (TGA), indicate that bulky thiols enhance charge accumulation at the electrode–solution interface. In addition to electrochemical experiments, DFT calculations and surface plasmon resonance measurements (SPR) were carried out to obtain quantum chemical descriptors and to evaluate the molecular length and the dielectric constant of the Boron cage. From SPR experiments, the adsorption kinetics of [B12H11SH]2− were studied. The data fit for a Langmuir kinetic equation, typical for the formation of a monolayer.
Dietary Approaches to Iron Deficiency Prevention in Childhood—A Critical Public Health Issue
Authors: Chouraqui Jean-Pierre
Published: April 2022

Iron is an essential nutrient, and individual iron status is determined by the regulation of iron absorption, which is driven by iron requirements. Iron deficiency (ID) disproportionately affects infants, children, and adolescents, particularly those who live in areas with unfavorable socioeconomic conditions. The main reason for this is that diet provides insufficient bioavailable iron to meet their needs. The consequences of ID include poor immune function and response to vaccination, and moderate ID anemia is associated with depressed neurodevelopment and impaired cognitive and academic performances. The persistently high prevalence of ID worldwide leads to the need for effective measures of ID prevention. The main strategies include the dietary diversification of foods with more bioavailable iron and/or the use of iron-fortified staple foods such as formula or cereals. However, this strategy may be limited due to its cost, especially in low-income countries where biofortification is a promising approach. Another option is iron supplementation. In terms of health policy, the choice between mass and targeted ID prevention depends on local conditions. In any case, this remains a critical public health issue in many countries that must be taken into consideration, especially in children under 5 years of age.
A Meta-Analysis of the Impact of Nutritional Supplementation on Osteoarthritis Symptoms
Authors: Mathieu Sylvain , Soubrier Martin , Peirs Cedric , Monfoulet Laurent-Emmanuel , Boirie Yves , Tournadre Anne
Published: April 2022

Conflicting evidence exists concerning the effects of nutrient intake in osteoarthritis (OA). A systematic literature review and meta-analysis were performed using PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library up to November 2021 to assess the effects of nutrients on pain, stiffness, function, quality of life, and inflammation markers. We obtained 52 references including 50 on knee OA. Twelve studies compared 724 curcumin patients and 714 controls. Using the standardized mean difference, improvement was significant with regard to pain and function in the curcumin group compared to placebo, but not with active treatment (i.e., nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, chondroitin, or paracetamol). Three studies assessed the effects of ginger on OA symptoms in 166 patients compared to 164 placebo controls. Pain was the only clinical parameter that significantly decreased. Vitamin D supplementation caused a significant decrease in pain and function. Omega-3 and vitamin E caused no changes in OA parameters. Herbal formulations effects were significant only for stiffness compared to placebo, but not with active treatment. A significant decrease in inflammatory markers was found, especially with ginger. Thus, curcumin and ginger supplementation can have a favorable impact on knee OA symptoms. Other studies are needed to better assess the effects of omega-3 and vitamin D.
Do B Vitamins Enhance the Effect of Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids on Cardiovascular Diseases? A Systematic Review of Clinical Trials
Authors: Zhu Jie , Xun Peng-Cheng , Kolencik Marissa , Yang Ke-Feng , Fly Alyce D. , Kahe Ka
Published: April 2022

Studies have suggested that B vitamins or omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) may deter the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD). This systematic review aims to examine whether the combined supplementation of both B vitamins and omega-3 PUFAs could provide additional beneficial effects to prevent CVD beyond the effect of each supplement based on clinical trials published up to December 2021. The overall findings are inconsistent and inconclusive, yet the combined supplementation of these two nutrients may be more effective at reducing plasma homocysteine, triglyceride, and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol than the individual components. The underlying mechanisms mainly include alleviating endothelial dysfunction, inhibiting atherosclerosis and lesion initiation, reducing oxidative stress, suppressing activation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, regulating endothelial nitric oxide synthase, and interfering with methylation of genes that promote atherogenesis. Although biologically plausible, the existing literature is insufficient to draw any firm conclusion regarding whether B vitamins can further enhance the potential beneficial effects of omega-3 PUFA intake on either primary or secondary prevention of CVD. The inconsistent findings may be largely explained by the methodological challenges. Therefore, well-designed high-quality trials that will use the combined supplementation of B vitamins and omega-3 PUFAs or dietary patterns rich in these two types of nutrients are warranted.
Epidemiology and Comparative Analyses of the S Gene on Feline Coronavirus in Central China
Authors: Ouyang Hehao , Liu Jiahao , Yin Yiya , Cao Shengbo , Yan Rui , Ren Yi , Zhou Dengyuan , Li Qiuyan , Li Junyi , Liao Xueyu , Ji Wanfeng , Du Bingjie , Si Youhui , Hu Changmin
Published: April 2022

Feline coronavirus (FCoV) infections present as one of two forms: a mild or symptom-less enteric infection (FEC) and a fatal systemic disease termed feline infectious peritonitis (FIP). The lack of epidemiology of FCoV in central China and the reason why different symptoms are caused by viruses of the same serotype have motivated this investigation. Clinical data of 81 suspected FIP cases, 116 diarrhea cases and 174 healthy cases were collected from veterinary hospitals using body cavity effusion or fecal samples. Risk factors, sequence comparison and phylogenetic studies were performed. The results indicated that FIPV was distinguished from FECV in the average hydrophobicity of amino acids among the cleavage sites of furin, as well as the mutation sites 23,531 and 23,537. FIPV included a higher minimal R-X-X-R recognition motif of furin (41.94%) than did FECV (9.1%). The serotype of FCoV was insignificantly correlated with FIP, and the clade 1 and clade 2 strains that appeared were unique to central China. Thus, it is hypothesized that this, along with the latent variables of an antigenic epitope at positions 1058 and 1060, as well as mutations at the S1/S2 sites, are important factors affecting FCoV transmission and pathogenicity.
Microbiological, Clinical, and PK/PD Features of the New Anti-Gram-Negative Antibiotics: β-Lactam/β-Lactamase Inhibitors in Combination and Cefiderocol—An All-Inclusive Guide for Clinicians
Authors: Principe Luigi , Lupia Tommaso , Andriani Lilia , Campanile Floriana , Carcione Davide , Corcione Silvia , De Rosa Francesco , Luzzati Roberto , Stroffolini Giacomo , Steyde Marina , Decorti Giuliana , Di Bella Stefano
Published: April 2022

Bacterial resistance mechanisms are continuously and rapidly evolving. This is particularly true for Gram-negative bacteria. Over the last decade, the strategy to develop new β-lactam/β-lactamase inhibitors (BLs/BLIs) combinations has paid off and results from phase 3 and real-world studies are becoming available for several compounds. Cefiderocol warrants a separate discussion for its peculiar mechanism of action. Considering the complexity of summarizing and integrating the emerging literature data of clinical outcomes, microbiological mechanisms, and pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic properties of the new BL/BLI and cefiderocol, we aimed to provide an overview of data on the following compounds: aztreonam/avibactam, cefepime/enmetazobactam, cefepime/taniborbactam, cefepime/zidebactam, cefiderocol, ceftaroline/avibactam, ceftolozane/tazobactam, ceftazidime/avibactam, imipenem/relebactam, meropenem/nacubactam and meropenem/vaborbactam. Each compound is described in a dedicated section by experts in infectious diseases, microbiology, and pharmacology, with tables providing at-a-glance information.