bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultrawideband Polarization-Independent Nanoarchitectonics: A Perfect Metamaterial Absorber for Visible and Infrared Optical Window Applications
Authors: Hakim Mohammad Lutful , Hanif Abu , Alam Touhidul , Islam Mohammad Tariqul , Arshad Haslina , Soliman Mohamed S. , Albadran Saleh Mohammad , Islam Md. Shabiul
Published: August 2022

This article presents numerical analysis of an ultrathin concentric hexagonal ring resonator (CHRR) metamaterial absorber (MMA) for ultrawideband visible and infrared optical window applications. The proposed MMA exhibits an absorption of above 90% from 380 to 2500 nm and an average absorbance of 96.64% at entire operational bandwidth with a compact unit cell size of 66 × 66 nm2. The designed MMA shows maximum absorption of 99% at 618 nm. The absorption bandwidth of the MMA covers the entire visible and infrared optical windows. The nickel material has been used to design the top and bottom layer of MMA, where aluminium nitride (AlN) has been used as the substrate. The designed hexagonal MMA shows polarization-independent properties due to the symmetry of the design and a stable absorption label is also achieved for oblique incident angles up to 70 °C. The absorption property of hexagonal ring resonator MMA has been analyzed by design evaluation, parametric and various material investigations. The metamaterial property, surface current allocation, magnetic field and electric field have also been analyzed to explore the absorption properties. The proposed MMA has promising prospects in numerous applications like infrared detection, solar cells, gas detection sensors, imaging, etc.
Co3O4 Nanopetals Grown on the Porous CuO Network for the Photocatalytic Degradation
Authors: Sun Yuntao , Wang Can , Qin Shengyao , Pan Fengda , Li Yongyan , Wang Zhifeng , Qin Chunling
Published: August 2022

Designing a novel photocatalytic composite for the efficient degradation of organic dyes remains a serious challenge. Herein, the multi-layered Co3O4@NP-CuO photocatalyst with unique features, i.e., the self-supporting, hierarchical porous network as well as the construction of heterojunction between Co3O4 and CuO, are synthesized by dealloying-electrodeposition and subsequent thermal treatment techniques. It is found that the interwoven ultrathin Co3O4 nanopetals evenly grow on the nanoporous CuO network (Co3O4@NP-CuO). The three-dimensional (3D) hierarchical porous structure for the catalyst provides more surface area to act as active sites and facilitates the absorption of visible light in the photodegradation reaction. Compared with the commercial CuO and Co3O4 powders, the newly designed Co3O4@NP-CuO composite exhibits superior photodegradation performance for RhB. The enhanced performance is mainly due to the construction of heterojunction of Co3O4/CuO, greatly promoting the efficient carrier separation for photocatalysis. Furthermore, the possible photocatalytic mechanism is analyzed in detail. This work provides a promising strategy for the fabrication of a new controllable heterojunction to improve photocatalytic activity.
Photocatalytic Activity of TiO2/g-C3N4 Nanocomposites for Removal of Monochlorophenols from Water
Authors: Kobkeatthawin Thawanrat , Chaveanghong Suwilai , Trakulmututa Jirawat , Amornsakchai Taweechai , Kajitvichyanukul Puangrat , Smith Siwaporn Meejoo
Published: August 2022

This research employed g-C3N4 nanosheets in the hydrothermal synthesis of TiO2/g-C3N4 hybrid photocatalysts. The TiO2/g-C3N4 heterojunctions, well-dispersed TiO2 nanoparticles on the g-C3N4 nanosheets, are effective photocatalysts for the degradation of monochlorophenols (MCPs: 2-CP, 3-CP, and 4-CP) which are prominent water contaminants. The removal efficiency of 2-CP and 4-CP reached 87% and 64%, respectively, after treatment of 25 ppm CP solutions with the photocatalyst (40TiO2/g-C3N4, 1 g/L) and irradiation with UV–Vis light. Treatment of CP solutions with g-C3N4 nanosheets or TiO2 alone in conjunction with irradiation gave removal efficiencies lower than 50%, which suggests the two act synergically to enhance the photocatalytic activity of the 40TiO2/g-C3N4 nanocomposite. Superoxide and hydroxyl radicals are key active species produced during CP photodegradation. In addition, the observed nitrogen and Ti3+ defects and oxygen vacancies in the TiO2/g-C3N4 nanocomposites may improve the light-harvesting ability of the composite and assist preventing rapid electron-hole recombination on the surface, enhancing the photocatalytic performance. In addition, interfacial interactions between the MCPs (low polarity) and thermally exfoliated carbon nitride in the TiO2/g-C3N4 nanocomposites may also enhance MCP degradation.
Micro-/Nanofibrillated Cellulose-Based Coating Formulations: A Solution for Improving Paper Printing Quality
Authors: Sharma Mohit , Aguado Roberto , Murtinho Dina , Valente Artur J. M. , Ferreira Paulo J. T.
Published: August 2022

The use of micro-/nanofibrillated celluloses (M/NFCs) is often considered for the enhancement of paper properties, while it is still challenging to use them in lower weight gain coatings. This work explores how they might be used on the paper surface to improve the printing quality. In this regard, M/NFCs were produced using different pre-treatment methods, including mechanical (m-MFC), enzymatic (e-MFC), TEMPO-mediated oxidation (t-NFC) and cationization (c-NFC), and uniform coating formulations were developed through the cooking of starch and M/NFCs simultaneously. The formulations, at 6–8% of total solid concentration, were applied to the paper surface by roll coating, resulting in a dry coating weight of 1.5 to 3 g/m2. Besides M/NFCs, other components such as starch betainate (a cationic starch ester; SB), Pluronics® (a triblock co-polymer), precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC) and betaine hydrochloride (BetHCl) were also used in the M/NFC-based coating formulations to observe their combined influence on the printing quality. The presence of M/NFCs improved the paper printing quality, which was further enhanced by the increase in cationic charge density due to the presence of BetHCl/SB, and also by Pluronics®. The cationic charge of c-NFC was also found to be effective for improving the gamut area and optical density of coated papers, whereas whiteness was often reduced due to the quenching of the brightening agent. BetHCl, on the other hand, improved the printing quality of the coated papers, even though it was more effective when combined with M/NFCs, PCC and Pluronics®, and also helped to retain paper whiteness.
Thermal Energy Transfer between Helium Gas and Graphene Surface According to Molecular Dynamics Simulations and the Monte Carlo Method
Authors: Zhang Lin , Ban Heng
Published: August 2022

The scattering of gases on solid surfaces plays a vital role in many advanced technologies. In this study, the scattering behavior of helium on graphene surfaces was investigated, including the thermal accommodation coefficient (TAC), outgoing zenith angle of helium, bounce number, and interaction time. First, we performed molecular dynamics simulations to describe the incident angle-resolved behaviors, and showed that the scattering is highly dependent on the zenith angle of incident helium but insensitive to the azimuthal angle. The contribution of the normal velocity component of the incident helium dominated the energy transfer. The nonlinear relationship of the parameters to the zenith angle of the incident helium could be suppressed by increasing the graphene temperature or decreasing the speed of the incident helium. Subsequently, the scattering performance considering all gas molecules in the hemispherical space was evaluated using the Monte Carlo method with angle-resolved results. The result showed that the TAC, its nominal components, and the zenith angle of the scattered helium increased with higher speeds of incident helium and lower temperatures of graphene. This study should provide a fundamental understanding of energy transfer between gas and two-dimensional materials and guidelines to tune the scattering behavior between them.
Sodium Pre-Intercalation-Based Na3-δ-MnO2@CC for High-Performance Aqueous Asymmetric Supercapacitor: Joint Experimental and DFT Study
Authors: Rahman Anis Ur , Zarshad Nighat , Jianghua Wu , Shah Muslim , Ullah Sana , Li Guigen , Tariq Muhammad , Ali Asad
Published: August 2022

Electrochemical energy storage devices are ubiquitous for personal electronics, electric vehicles, smart grids, and future clean energy demand. SCs are EES devices with excellent power density and superior cycling ability. Herein, we focused on the fabrication and DFT calculations of Na3-δ-MnO2 nanocomposite, which has layered MnO2 redox-active sites, supported on carbon cloth. MnO2 has two-dimensional diffusion channels and is not labile to structural changes during intercalation; therefore, it is considered the best substrate for intercalation. Cation pre-intercalation has proven to be an effective way of increasing inter-layered spacing, optimizing the crystal structure, and improving the relevant electrochemical behavior of asymmetric aqueous supercapacitors. We successfully established Na+ pre-intercalated δ-MnO2 nanosheets on carbon cloth via one-pot hydrothermal synthesis. As a cathode, our prepared material exhibited an extended potential window of 0–1.4 V with a remarkable specific capacitance of 546 F g−1(300 F g−1 at 50 A g−1). Moreover, when this cathode was accompanied by an N-AC anode in an asymmetric aqueous supercapacitor, it illustrated exceptional performance (64 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 1225 W kg−1) and incomparable potential window of 2.4 V and 83% capacitance retention over 10,000 cycles with a great Columbic efficiency.
Dietary Intake among Children Attending Childcare Centers: Impact of the New CACFP Meal Guidelines
Authors: Dave Jayna M. , Chen Tzuan A. , Almohamad Maha , Cotto-Moreno Sonia
Published: August 2022

Through the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010, USDA (US Department of Agriculture) made the first major changes in the CACFP (Child and Adult Care Food Program) meal and snack menu patterns. Childcare centers that serve low-income families qualify to participate and receive reimbursement for meals and snacks served. The purpose of this study was to assess what changes in children’s dietary behaviors occurred as a result of the new CACFP meal pattern requirements. This study evaluated these changes at childcare centers operating in Houston and San Antonio, Texas, USA, areas enrolled in the CACFP, pre- (Spring 2016) and post-implementation (Fall 2016–Spring 2017) of the new meal patterns. Dietary intake was assessed via observations of children, 3–5 years old, conducted at breakfast, lunch, and snack times. Results showed improvements in adjusted means of several nutrients and food groups consumption, post-implementation of new CACFP meal guidelines compared to baseline, specifically intake of whole grains, milk, and juice. Additional studies are needed to confirm the impact of the revised CACFP meal patterns along with strategies to assist providers in meeting the new standards to increase the access to and intake of items in accordance with the CACFP meal pattern requirements in childcare settings.
Localization of Epigenetic Markers in Leishmania Chromatin
Authors: McDonald Jacquelyn R. , Jensen Bryan C. , Sur Aakash , Wong Iris L. K. , Beverley Stephen M. , Myler Peter J.
Published: August 2022

Eukaryotes use histone variants and post-translation modifications (PTMs), as well as DNA base modifications, to regulate DNA replication/repair, chromosome condensation, and gene expression. Despite the unusual organization of their protein-coding genes into large polycistronic transcription units (PTUs), trypanosomatid parasites also employ a “histone code” to control these processes, but the details of this epigenetic code are poorly understood. Here, we present the results of experiments designed to elucidate the distribution of histone variants and PTMs over the chromatin landscape of Leishmania tarentolae. These experiments show that two histone variants (H2A.Z and H2B.V) and three histone H3 PTMs (H3K4me3, H3K16ac, and H3K76me3) are enriched at transcription start sites (TSSs); while a histone variant (H3.V) and the trypanosomatid-specific hyper-modified DNA base J are located at transcription termination sites (TTSs). Reduced nucleosome density was observed at all TTSs and TSSs for RNA genes transcribed by RNA polymerases I (RNAPI) or RNAPIII; as well as (to a lesser extent) at TSSs for the PTUs transcribed by RNAPII. Several PTMs (H3K4me3, H3K16ac H3K20me2 and H3K36me3) and base J were enriched at centromeres, while H3K50ac was specifically associated with the periphery of these centromeric sequences. These findings significantly expand our knowledge of the epigenetic markers associated with transcription, DNA replication and/or chromosome segregation in these early diverging eukaryotes and will hopefully lay the groundwork for future studies to elucidate how they control these fundamental processes.
Memory Impairment, Pro-Inflammatory Host Response and Brain Histopathologic Severity in Rats Infected with K. pneumoniae or P. aeruginosa Meningitis
Authors: Elwakil Bassma H. , Bakr Basant A. , Aljeldah Mohammed M. , Shehata Nourhan S. , Shahin Yahya H. , Olama Zakia A. , Augustyniak Maria , Aboul-Soud Mourad A. M. , El Wakil Abeer
Published: August 2022

Meningitis caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa has lately become a prevalent cause of the central nervous system (CNS) infection. Bacterial invasion into the subarachnoid space prompts the releasing mechanism of chemokines and pro-inflammatory cytokines. The present study aimed to compare K. pneumoniae and P. aeruginosa meningitis concerning the memory, pro-inflammatory mediators and brain histopathological changes at different time intervals in adult Albino rats. The animals were sacrificed at three time intervals comprising 5, 10 and 15 days after meningitis induction. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) culture, relative brain weights, complete blood analysis, biochemical markers, levels of cytokine, chemokine and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), neurotransmitter acetylcholine esterase (AChE) activity, and the brain histopathology of the infected rats in comparison to those in the control group were assessed. There was a significant increase in the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines including TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and AChE after 5 days of bacterial meningitis infection with both K. pneumoniae and P. aeruginosa. The histopathological analysis of the cerebral cortex in the P. aeruginosa meningitis model at different time intervals revealed abundant numbers of dilated and congested blood vessels with severe hemorrhage, cerebral infarct, intracellular and extracellular vacuoles, and gliosis. Fifteen days post infection, a significant reduction in the brain tissue weight was observed. The meningitis model employing P. aeruginosa exhibited more evident time-dependent severity compared to K. pneumoniae, which may advocate its validity as a simple and effective research model to study meningitis of the CNS. This model may be utilized for further investigation to ascertain the molecular and biological association between bacterial meningitis and the development of the pathophysiological hallmarks underlying Alzheimer’s disease in preclinical and clinical setups. Clinical extrapolation based on studies employing animal disease models should be carefully interpreted.
The New Role of SGLT2 Inhibitors in the Management of Heart Failure: Current Evidence and Future Perspective
Authors: Muscoli Saverio , Barillà Francesco , Tajmir Rojin , Meloni Marco , Della Morte David , Bellia Alfonso , Di Daniele Nicola , Lauro Davide , Andreadi Aikaterini
Published: August 2022

The sodium-glucose transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) are a relatively new class of medication used in the management of type 2 diabetes. Recent clinical trials and research have demonstrated this class’s effectiveness in treating heart failure, since they reduce the risk of cardiovascular events, hospitalization, and mortality. The mechanism by which they do so is unclear; however, SGLT2i inhibit the tubular reabsorption of glucose, lowering the interstitial volume. This mechanism leads to a reduction in blood pressure and an improvement of endothelial function. As a result, improvements in hospitalization and mortality rate have been shown. In this review, we focus on the primary outcome of the clinical trials designed to investigate the effect of SGLT2i in heart failure, regardless of patients’ diabetic status. Furthermore, we compare the various SGLT2i regarding their risk reduction to investigate their potential as a treatment option for patients with reduced ejection fraction and preserved ejection fraction.
Binary Computer-Generated Holograms by Simulated-Annealing Binary Search
Authors: Liu Jung-Ping , Tsai Chen-Ming
Published: August 2022

The binary computer-generated hologram (BCGH) has attracted much attention recently because it can address the high-speed binary spatial light modulator (SLM), such as a digital micromirror device (DMD) SLM. In this paper, our concern is the development of an algorithm to produce high-quality BCGHs. In particular, simulated annealing (SA) is an efficient algorithm used to produce a phase-only computer-generated hologram. In the study of SA for the production of a BCGH, we found some inherent shortcomings of SA, and the quality of the produced BCGHs is limited. Accordingly, we have modified SA and propose the simulated-annealing binary search (SABS) algorithm. We have also proposed a method to quickly determine the parameters for SABS. In the comparison with SA, the mean square error of the SABS BCGHs decreases by 32% on average. Therefore, the SABS is a promising technique for a high-quality holographic display by DMD.
Tyrosinase Inhibitors Derived from Chemical Constituents of Dianella ensifolia
Authors: Chen Yu-Chang , Su Sheng-Han , Huang Jheng-Cian , Chao Che-Yi , Sung Ping-Jyun , Chen Yih-Fung , Ko Horng-Huey , Kuo Yueh-Hsiung
Published: August 2022

Dianella ensifolia is a perennial herb with thickened rhizome and is widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Australia, and the Pacific islands. This plant has the potential to be used as a source of herbal medicine. This study investigated further phytochemistry and tyrosinase inhibitory effect of some constituents isolated from D. ensifolia. Four new flavans, (2S)-4’-hydroxy-6,7-dimethoxyflavan (1), (2S)-3’,4’-dihydroxy-7-methoxy-8-methylflavan (2), (2S)-2’-hydroxy-7-methoxyflavan (3), and (2S,1′S)-4-hydroxy-4-(7-methoxy-8-methylchroman-2-yl)-cyclohex-2-enone (4), together with 67 known compounds, including 10 flavans (5–14), 5 flavanones (15–19), 3 flavone (20–22), 5 chalcones (23–27), 3 chromones (28–30), 15 aromatics (31–45), 7 phenylpropanoids (46–52), one lignan (53), 7 steroids (54–60), one monoterpene (61), one diterpene (62), 4 triterpenes (63–66), a carotenoid (67), 2 alkaloids (68 and 69), and 2 fatty acids (70 and 71) were isolated from D. ensifolia. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of physical and spectroscopic data analyses. Moreover, compounds 1–4, 8, 10–15, 20, 21, and 41 were evaluated for their mushroom tyrosinase inhibitory effect. Compounds 11 and 14 strongly inhibited mushroom tyrosinase activity with IC50 values of 8.6 and 14.5 μM, respectively.
Direct and Indirect Effects of Essential Oils for Sustainable Crop Protection
Authors: Kesraoui Sabrina , Andrés Maria Fe , Berrocal-Lobo Marta , Soudani Serine , Gonzalez-Coloma Azucena
Published: August 2022

Plant essential oils (EOs) are gaining interest as biopesticides for crop protection. EOs have been recognized as important ingredients of plant protection products including insecticidal, acaricidal, fungicidal, and nematicidal agents. Considering the growing importance of EOs as active ingredients, the domestication and cultivation of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (MAPs) to produce chemically stable EOs contributes to species conservation, provides the sustainability of production, and decreases the variations in the active ingredients. In addition to these direct effects on plant pests and diseases, EOs can induce plant defenses (priming effects) resulting in better protection. This aspect is of relevance considering that the EU framework aims to achieve the sustainable use of new plant protection products (PPPs), and since 2020, the use of contaminant PPPs has been prohibited. In this paper, we review the most updated information on the direct plant protection effects of EOs, focusing on their modes of action against insects, fungi, and nematodes, as well as the information available on EOs with plant defense priming effects.
Transcriptome Analyses in a Selected Gene Set Indicate Alternative Oxidase (AOX) and Early Enhanced Fermentation as Critical for Salinity Tolerance in Rice
Authors: Aziz Shahid , Germano Thais Andrade , Thiers Karine Leitão Lima , Batista Mathias Coelho , de Souza Miranda Rafael , Arnholdt-Schmitt Birgit , Costa Jose Helio
Published: August 2022

Plants subjected to stress need to respond rapidly and efficiently to acclimatize and survive. In this paper, we investigated a selected gene set potentially involved in early cell reprogramming in two rice genotypes with contrasting salinity tolerance (Pokkali tolerant and IR29 susceptible) in order to advance knowledge of early molecular mechanisms of rice in dealing with salt stress. Selected genes were evaluated in available transcriptomic data over a short period of 24 h and involved enzymes that avoid ROS formation (AOX, UCP and PTOX), impact ATP production (PFK, ADH and COX) or relate to the antioxidant system. Higher transcript accumulation of AOX (ROS balancing), PFK and ADH (alcohol fermentation) was detected in the tolerant genotype, while the sensitive genotype revealed higher UCP and PTOX transcript levels, indicating a predominant role for early transcription of AOX and fermentation in conferring salt stress tolerance to rice. Antioxidant gene analyses supported higher oxidative stress in IR29, with transcript increases of cytosolic CAT and SOD from all cell compartments (cytoplasm, peroxisome, chloroplast and mitochondria). In contrast, Pokkali increased mRNA levels from the AsA-GSH cycle as cytosolic/mitochondrial DHAR was involved in ascorbate recovery. In addition, these responses occurred from 2 h in IR29 and 10 h in Pokkali, indicating early but ineffective antioxidant activity in the susceptible genotype. Overall, our data suggest that AOX and ADH can play a critical role during early cell reprogramming for improving salt stress tolerance by efficiently controlling ROS formation in mitochondria. We discuss our results in relation to gene engineering and editing approaches to develop salinity-tolerant crops.
Identification and Spatial Distribution of Bioactive Compounds in Seeds Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. by Laser Microscopy and Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Razgonova Mayya P. , Burlyaeva Marina O. , Zinchenko Yulia N. , Krylova Ekaterina A. , Chunikhina Olga A. , Ivanova Natalia M. , Zakharenko Alexander M. , Golokhvast Kirill S.
Published: August 2022

The research presents a comparative metabolomic study of extracts of Vigna unguiculata seed samples from the collection of the N.I. Vavilov All-Russian Institute of Plant Genetic Resources. Analyzed samples related to different areas of use in agricultural production, belonging to different cultivar groups sesquipedalis (vegetable accessions) and unguiculata (grain accessions). Metabolome analysis was performed by liquid chromatography combined with ion trap mass spectrometry. Substances were localized in seeds using confocal and laser microscopy. As a result, 49 bioactive compounds were identified: flavonols, flavones, flavan-3-ols, anthocyanidin, phenolic acids, amino acids, monocarboxylic acids, aminobenzoic acids, fatty acids, lignans, carotenoid, sapogenins, steroids, etc. Steroidal alkaloids were identified in V. unguiculata seeds for the first time. The seed coat (palisade epidermis and parenchyma) is the richest in phenolic compounds. Comparison of seeds of varieties of different directions of use in terms of the number of bioactive substances identified revealed a significant superiority of vegetable accessions over grain ones in this indicator, 36 compounds were found in samples from cultivar group sesquipedalis, and 24 in unguiculata. The greatest variety of bioactive compounds was found in the vegetable accession k-640 from China.
Description of the Soil Diatom Sellaphora terrestris sp. nov. (Bacillariophyceae, Sellaphoraceae) from Vietnam, with Remarks on the Phylogeny and Taxonomy of Sellaphora and Systematic Position of Microcostatus
Authors: Glushchenko Anton , Kezlya Elena , Maltsev Yevhen , Genkal Sergei , Kociolek John Patrick , Kulikovskiy Maxim
Published: August 2022

In material isolated from soils of Cát Tiên National Park, we isolated four strains that were assigned to the genus Sellaphora. Identification was carried out on the basis of morphological and molecular studies. We proposed a new species named Sellaphora terrestris sp. nov. An evolutionary distance matrix, based on the 18S rDNA gene including the V4 domain, showed the new species shared 94.1–97.2% similarities with other Sellaphora sequences. The new species is morphologically similar to species previously identified as representatives of the genus Microcostatus.
New Insights into Phase Separation Processes and Membraneless Condensates of EIN2
Authors: Lu Jian , Wen Chi-Kuang , Groth Georg
Published: August 2022

Recent technological advances allow us to resolve molecular processes in living cells with high spatial and temporal resolution. Based on these technological advances, membraneless intracellular condensates formed by reversible functional aggregation and phase separation have been identified as important regulatory modules in diverse biological processes. Here, we present bioinformatic and cellular studies highlighting the possibility of the involvement of the central activator of ethylene responses EIN2 in such cellular condensates and phase separation processes. Our work provides insight into the molecular type (identity) of the observed EIN2 condensates and on potential intrinsic elements and sequence motifs in EIN2-C that may regulate condensate formation and dynamics.
Aphids and Mycorrhizal Fungi Shape Maternal Effects in Senecio vulgaris
Authors: Chitty Ruth P. , Gange Alan C.
Published: August 2022

Plant performance in any one generation is affected not only by the prevailing environmental conditions, but also by the conditions experienced by the parental generation of those plants. These maternal effects have been recorded in a many plant species, but the influence of external biotic (as opposed to abiotic) factors on shaping maternal effects have been rarely examined. Furthermore, almost all previous studies have taken place over one plant generation, rather than across multiple generations. Here, we studied the influence of insect herbivory and arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungal colonisation on the shaping of maternal effects in the annual forb Senecio vulgaris. We grew plants with and without aphids (Myzus persicae) and AM fungi (hereafter termed ‘induction events’) over four successive generations, wherein seeds from plants in any one treatment were used to grow plants of the same treatment in the next generation, all in identical environmental conditions. We found strong evidence of maternal effects in the second plant generation, i.e., after one induction event. These plants took longer to germinate, flowered in a shorter time, produced lighter seeds and were shorter and of lower biomass than their parents. Aphid attack tended to enhance these effects, whereas AM fungi had little influence. However, thereafter there was a gradual recovery in these parameters, so that plants experiencing three inductions showed similar life history parameters to those in the original generation. We conclude that experiments investigating maternal effects need to be performed over multiple plant generations and that biotic factors such as insects and mycorrhizas must also be taken into account, along with abiotic factors, such as nutrient and water availability.
Interaction of Ginseng with Ilyonectria Root Rot Pathogens
Authors: Bischoff Nunes Isadora , Goodwin Paul H.
Published: August 2022

The Ilyonectria radicicola species complex (A.A. Hildebr.) A. Cabral and Crous 2011 contains species of soilborne necrotrophic plant pathogens. The most aggressive to ginseng roots is I. mors-panacis, whereas I. robusta, I. crassa, I. panacis and I. radicicola are less aggressive. Infected ginseng roots show orange-red to black-brown lesions that can expand into a severe root rot, known as disappearing root rot, where only epidermal root tissue remains. Leaves become red-brown with wilting, and stems can have vascular discoloration with black-brown lesions at the base. Less aggressive Ilyonectria species trigger jasmonic acid (JA)-related defenses inducing host ginsenosides, pathogenesis-related (PR) proteins, wound periderm, and cell wall thickening. In contrast, I. mors-panacis triggers reactive oxygen species (ROS) and salicylic acid (SA) production but suppresses JA-related defenses and ginsenoside accumulation. It is also able to suppress SA-related PR protein production. Virulence factors include potential effectors that may suppress PAMP (Pathogen Associated Molecular Patterns) triggered immunity (PTI), polyphenoloxidases, Hsp90 inhibitors, siderophores and cell-wall-degrading enzymes, such as pectinases. Overall, I. mors-panacis appears to be more aggressive because it can suppress JA and SA-related PTI allowing for more extensive colonization of ginseng roots. While many possible mechanisms of host resistance and pathogen virulence mechanisms have been examined, there is a need for using genetic approaches, such as RNAi silencing of genes of Panax or Ilyonectria, to determine their importance in the interaction.
New Method for a SEM-Based Characterization of Helical-Fiber Nonwovens
Authors: Li Ying , Cui Guixin , Zeng Yongchun
Published: August 2022

The lack of tools particularly designed for the quantification of the fiber morphology in nonwovens, especially the multi-level structured fibers, is the main reason for the limited research studies on the establishment of realistic nonwoven structure. In this study, two polymers, cellulose acetate (CA) and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), which have different molecular flexibility, were chosen to produce nonwovens with helical nanofibers. Focusing on the nonwovens with helical fibers, a soft package was developed to characterize fiber morphologies, including fiber orientation, helix diameter, and curvature of helix. The novelty of this study is the proposal of a method for the characterization of nanofibrous nonwovens with special fiber shape (helical fibers) which can be used for curve fibers. The characterization results for the helical-fiber nonwoven sample and the nonwoven sample with straight fibers were compared and analyzed.
Nondestructive Evaluation of Composite Bonding Structure Used in Electrical Insulation Based on Active Infrared Thermography
Authors: Guo Chenjun , Liu Lishuai , Mei Hongwei , Tu Yanxin , Wang Liming
Published: August 2022

Nondestructive testing and evaluation of composite insulating components of electrical equipment is extremely necessary for assuring the safety of a power system. However, most existing nondestructive testing methods are not applicable for fast and effective live detection due to their time-consuming operation, high cost, and contact or near-field measurement. In this work, the effectiveness of active infrared thermography was investigated for detecting defects in silicone rubber (SIR)–fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) bonding structures, which have been commonly used in insulating components of power equipment. The effectiveness of differential thermal image for enhancing the contrast of defective and sound areas and eliminating additive noise was demonstrated. Particularly, frame difference thermal image obtained by subtracting two differential thermal images extracting from respectively before and after the contrast inversion was proposed to enhance defect identification. The results revealed that defects of various sizes and depths such as voids, cracks, and interface disbonding of the SIR–FRP bonding structure were accurately detected by thermographic data. With the advantages of a quick and simple process, safety, universal applicability, visual results, far-field measurement, and quantitative defect estimation capabilities, active infrared thermography would be quite promising for live detection of electrical equipment.
Cytotoxicity and Apoptotic Mechanism of 2-Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate via Genotoxicity and the Mitochondrial-Dependent Intrinsic Caspase Pathway and Intracellular Reactive Oxygen Species Accumulation in Macrophages
Authors: Lee Chien-Ying , Ho Yung-Chuan , Lee Shiuan-Shinn , Li Yi-Ching , Lai Mei-Yu , Kuan Yu-Hsiang
Published: August 2022

Macrophages are mainly active cells of the immune system and play a role in the defense of pathogens. However, the overactivation of macrophages by fatal pathogens can result in toxic responses. 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), which is a hydrophilic monomer, is used in dental adhesive reagents and composite resins as well as biocompatible hydrogels. The mechanisms underlying the genotoxicity engendered by HEMA-induced apoptosis that leads to cytotoxicity remain unclear. Accordingly, this study was conducted to clarify such mechanisms. The results showed that HEMA induced cell toxicity in RAW264.7 macrophages depending on the concentration. A higher HEMA concentration was associated with a higher level of apoptosis and genotoxicity. Moreover, HEMA induced a concentration-dependent increase in mitochondrial dysfunction and the intrinsic caspase pathway, including the activation of caspase-3 and caspase-9. HEMA was also found to upregulate intracellular reactive oxygen species generation and to decrease the activity of antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase and catalase. Taken together, the mitochondrial-dependent intrinsic caspase pathway and intracellular reactive oxygen species accumulation were found to mediate HEMA-induced genotoxicity and apoptosis, leading to cytotoxicity in RAW264.7 macrophages.
Advanced Dual−Function Hollow Copper−Sulfide−Based Polyimide Composite Window Film Combining Near−Infrared Thermal Shielding and Organic Pollutants’ Photodegradation
Authors: Liu Xiangfu , Ma Jinming , Shen Jiulin , Zhao Jianqiao , Lu Chengxu , Tu Guoli
Published: August 2022

Window−film−integrated, near−infrared (NIR) absorption−based nanomaterials are of great interest in terms of numerous demands to reduce energy consumption, especially in buildings and vehicles. However, the question of how to effectively manage thermal energy generated from NIR harvesting in light−absorbing materials, rather than being wasted or causing negative effects, remains challenging. Herein, hollow copper sulfide (Cu2−xS) on colorless polyimide (PI) films, enabling them to be well−dispersed and robustly adhered, underwent in situ growth fabrication and were utilized as NIR−thermal−shielding and organic−pollutant−removal dual−function window films. Due to strong NIR absorbance, arising from the heavy hole−doping (copper cation deficiency), the Cu2−xS/PI composite film exhibited great promise for use in the filtration of the NIR spectrum. By monitoring Cu2−xS densities, its NIR−shielding efficiency reached 69.4%, with hundred−percent UV blocking and consistent performance within the reliability (85 °C/85%RH) tests over one week as well as 5000 bending cycles. The integration of the films into model cars and building windows exhibited excellent thermal−shielding performance upon exposure to direct sunlight. Moreover, benefiting from the distinctive distribution of Cu2−xS, the additional thermal energy (holes) generated in NIR absorption was successfully utilized. The densely surface−confined hollow structure of Cu2−xS on PI significantly endowed good formaldehyde catalytic capacity, with removal efficiency reaching approximately 72% within 60 min and a negligible decline after quartic reuse. These integration methodologies enable the promising fabrication of a high−performance, bifunctional window film combining thermal shielding and indoor organic pollutant removal.
Insights into the Influence of Different Pre-Treatments on Physicochemical Properties of Nafion XL Membrane and Fuel Cell Performance
Authors: Selim Asmaa , Szijjártó Gábor Pál , Tompos András
Published: August 2022

Perfluorosulfonic acid (PFSA) polymers such as Nafion are the most frequently used Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) in PEM fuel cells. Nafion XL is one of the most recently developed membranes designed to enhance performance by employing a mechanically reinforced layer in the architecture and a chemical stabilizer. The influence of the water and acid pre-treatment process on the physicochemical properties of Nafion XL membrane and Membrane Electrode Assembly (MEA) was investigated. The obtained results indicate that the pre-treated membranes have higher water uptake and dimensional swelling ratios, i.e., higher hydrophilicity, while the untreated membrane demonstrated a higher ionic exchange capacity. Furthermore, the conductivity of the acid pre-treated Nafion XL membrane was ~ 9.7% higher compared to the untreated membrane. Additionally, the maximum power densities obtained at 80 °C using acid pre-treatment were ~ 0.8 and 0.93 W/cm2 for re-cast Nafion and Nafion XL, respectively. However, the maximum generated powers for untreated membranes at the same condition were 0.36 and 0.66 W/cm2 for re-cast Nafion and Nafion XL, respectively. The overall results indicated that the PEM’s pre-treatment process is essential to enhance performance.
An Updated Review of Salivary pH Effects on Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA)-Based Removable Dental Prostheses
Authors: Alshahrani Faris A. , AlToraibily Fatemah , Alzaid Maryam , Mahrous Amr A. , Al Ghamdi Maram A. , Gad Mohammed M.
Published: August 2022

Salivary pH is a neglected factor that may affect the performance of removable dental prostheses (RDP). This study aimed to review literature in reference to the role of salivary pH on the performance of RDP and materials used for their fabrication. From January 1990 until December 2021, a search was done on PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases using removable dental prostheses, salivary pH, PMMA, Denture base, and physical properties as keywords. Articles that met the inclusion criteria (full-length articles have investigated the effect of salivary pH on RDP materials in vitro and in vivo) were included. Out of 433 articles, 8 articles that met the inclusion criteria were included. All studies used artificial saliva with different salivary pH ranging between 3 and 14. Two articles investigated the role of salivary pH on the cytotoxicity of denture base resins and soft liner. One article studied the durability and retention of attachments, one article analyzed the performance of PEEK materials, one article researched the fatigue resistance of a denture base, one article investigated the corrosion of RPD framework cast and milled Co–Cr, one article studied the strength and clasp retention and deformation of acetal and PEEK materials, and one evaluated changes in mass and surface morphology of CAD–CAM fiber-reinforced composites for the prosthetic framework. Different salivary pH affected all included materials in this review except PEEK materials. The most adverse effect was reported with alkaline and acidic; however, the acidic showed the most deterioration effect. Salivary pH has a role in the selection of material used for RDP fabrication.
Separation and Enrichment of Selected Polar and Non-Polar Organic Micro-Pollutants—The Dual Nature of Quaternary Ammonium Ionic Liquid
Authors: Ziemblińska-Bernart Justyna , Rykowska Iwona , Nowak Iwona
Published: August 2022

In this study, the dual nature of quaternary ammonium ionic liquid–didecyldimethylammonium perchlorate, [DDA][ClO4], was evaluated. A novel and sensitive in situ ionic liquid dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction method (in situ IL-DLLME) combined with magnetic retrieval (MR) was applied to enrich and separate selected organic micro-pollutants, both polar and non-polar. The magnetic support relied on using unmodified magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) prepared by the co-precipitation of Fe2+/Fe3+ (Fe3O4). The separation technique was on-lined with high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC–DAD) verified by inverse gas chromatography. An anion exchanger, NaClO4, was added to form an in situ hydrophobic IL. The fine droplets of [DDA][ClO4], molded in aqueous samples, functioned as an extractant for isolating the studied compounds. Then the carrier MNPs were added to separate the IL from the water matrix. The supernatant-free sample was desorbed in acetonitrile (MeCN) and injected into the HPLC system. The applicability of [DDA][ClO4] as an extraction solvent in the MR in situ IL-DLLME method was checked by the selectivity parameters (Sij∞) at infinite dilution. The detection limit (LOD) ranged from 0.011 to 0.079 µg L−1 for PAHs and from 0.012 to 0.020 µg L−1 for benzophenones. The method showed good linearity with correlation coefficients (r2) ranging from 0.9995 to 0.9999.
Free Phenolic Compounds, Antioxidant Capacity and FT-NIR Survey of Debittered Lupinus mutabilis Seeds
Authors: Estivi Lorenzo , Grassi Silvia , Briceño-Berrú Luis , Glorio-Paulet Patricia , Camarena Felix , Hidalgo Alyssa , Brandolini Andrea
Published: August 2022

Lupinus mutabilis protein-rich seeds must be debittered before consumption. The aim of this research was to assess free phenolic compounds, antioxidant capacity and FT-NIR spectra of flours from debittered seeds of 33 Andean ecotypes of L. mutabilis, and five varieties belonging to L. luteus, L. angustifolius and L. albus, as controls. The free phenolics were quantified by RP-HPLC, while the antioxidant capacity was evaluated spectrophotometrically through the Reducing Power, ABTS, FRAP and DPPH methods. The free phenolics of L. mutabilis were mostly (85.5–99.6%) flavonoids (genistein and genistein derivatives, apigenin, catechin and naringenin). Other compounds, detected in low quantities, were phenylethanoids (tyrosol and tyrosol derivative) and phenolic acids (cinnamic acid derivatives). The highest total free phenolic concentration was observed in H6 INIA BP (1393.32 mg/kg DM), followed by Chacas, Moteado beige, Huánuco and Lircay. The antioxidant capacity of the L. mutabilis ecotypes exceeded that of the controls and was correlated to flavonoids content. Additionally, a relationship between free phenolic compounds and spectral bands was established by FT-NIR, paving the way for a fast, reliable and non-destructive approach to lupin seeds characterisation. Even after debittering, lupin flours maintained high free phenolic concentrations and antioxidant capacity.
A Sustainable Integration Approach of Chlor-Alkali Industries for the Production of PVC and Clean Fuel Hydrogen: Prospects and Bangladesh Perspectives
Authors: Roy Hridoy , Barua Sujoy , Ahmed Tasnim , Mehnaz Fareen , Islam Md. Shahinoor , Mujtaba Iqbal M.
Published: August 2022

The chlor-alkali industries produce caustic soda (NaOH), chlorine (Cl2), and hydrogen (H2) as primary products. In 2021, the global chlor-alkali market was valued at $63.2 billion. The article evaluates the global aspects of chlor-alkali industries and prospects for Bangladesh. The current production capacity of NaOH from the chlor-alkali industries in Bangladesh is around 282,150 metric tons/year (MT/y). The by-products, chlorine (Cl2) of 250,470 MT/y and hydrogen (H2) of 7055 MT/y, are produced domestically. The local demand of Cl2 is 68,779 MT/y. However, there are no systematic utilizations of the residual Cl2 and vented H2, which threatens the sustainability of the chlor-alkali industries. The article prefigures that a 150,000 MT/y PVC plant can utilize 45.2 % of residual Cl2 of chlor-alkali plants, which would be an economical and environmental milestone for Bangladesh. The residual Cl2 can earn revenue of 908 million USD/y, which can be utilized to import ethylene. For the sustainable utilization of vented H2, production of H2O2, fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) and H2 fuel-cell-based power plant are the feasible solutions. Thus, for the long-term growth of the chlor-alkali industry in Bangladesh and other developing countries, systematic utilization of Cl2 and H2 is the only feasible solution.
Heat Transfer Performance of Plate Fin and Pin Fin Heat Sinks Using Al2O3/H2O Nanofluid in Electronic Cooling
Authors: Ozbalci Oguzhan , Dogan Ayla , Asilturk Meltem
Published: August 2022

The thermal management of electronic devices has become a major problem in recent years. Therefore, there is a growing need for research on many new materials and innovative fluids due to the developing technology and increasing cooling need in electronic systems. In this paper, heat transfer from a plate fin and pin fin type heat sinks that were placed in a water block that are used in electronic systems was investigated. A base fluid (pure water) and 0.1% mass concentration Al2O3-H2O nanofluid were used as cooling fluids. The experiments were carried out for volumetric flow rates varying between 100 and 800 mL/min and heat flux values of 454.54 W/m2 and 1818.18 W/m2. The results demonstrated that the Al2O3-H2O nanofluid on the empty surface provided a maximum improvement of 10.5% in heat transfer compared to the base fluid. In the use of plate finned heat sink, the maximum amount of improvement in heat transfer compared to the empty surface was obtained approximately 64.25% for the base fluid and 82.8% for the nanofluid. A similar comparison was made for the pin-fin heat sink, a maximum thermal improvement of 56.4% in the base fluid and 70.27% in the use of nanofluid was determined.
Experimental Analysis of Wind Pressure Characteristics in a Reduced-Scale Model of a Slab-Shaped High-Rise Building at Different Inflow Conditions with Various Wind Flow Directions
Authors: Chen Qiuhua , Zhang Xiaoxi
Published: August 2022

Wind resistance is one of the most important safety targets for high-rise buildings, especially slab-shaped ones with relatively large length–width ratios. In this study, the characteristics of wind pressure on a reduced-scale model of a slab-shaped high-rise building were analyzed experimentally. The experiment was conducted using the DTC Initium electronic scanning pressure measurement system in the wind tunnel at the Xiamen University of Technology, China. The spatial distribution and time-frequency characteristics of the wind pressure signals were analyzed with various wind flow directions under uniform and boundary-layer inflow conditions. The results show that both of the inflow conditions and the wind directions have significant influences on the magnitude and distribution characteristics of the wind pressure on the building surfaces. The wavelet transform-based analysis shows that the wind pressure on the building surfaces presents obvious intermittent characteristics, with the instantaneous energies pulsating intensively in the time-frequency domain, illustrating the unsteady nature of the wind pressure loads on the building. The influence and risk of the unsteady pulsating pressure loads should be considered when evaluating the wind-resistant performances of this type of building.