bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Review on the Sources, Structures, and Pharmacological Activities of Lucidenic Acids
Authors: Zheng Chengwen , Rangsinth Panthakarn , Shiu Polly H. T. , Wang Wen , Li Renkai , Li Jingjing , Kwan Yiu-Wa , Leung George P. H.
Published: February 2023

Ganoderma lucidum has long been used as a multi-purpose plant and functional food. The pharmacological properties of G. lucidum are primarily attributed to its polysaccharides and triterpenoids. Ganoderic and lucidenic acids are the two major triterpenoids groups in G. lucidum. Despite the discovery of 22 types of lucidenic acids, research on lucidenic acids is significantly less extensive compared to that on ganoderic acid. To the best of our knowledge, for the first time, in this review, we aimed to summarize the sources, contents, chemical structures, and pharmacological effects, including anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-viral, neuroprotective, anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-hypercholesterolemic, and anti-diabetic properties, of lucidenic acids. Studies on lucidenic acids are still preliminary and have several limitations. Therefore, more in-depth studies with optimal designs are essential for the development of lucidenic acids as medicines, functional foods, and nutraceuticals.
NO2 Sensing Capability of Pt–Au–SnO2 Composite Nanoceramics at Room Temperature
Authors: Song Jiannan , Xu Zhongtang , Wu Menghan , Lu Xilai , Yan Zhiqiao , Chen Feng , Chen Wanping
Published: February 2023

Composite ceramics of metal oxides and noble metals have received much attention for sensing reducing gases at room temperature. Presently, composite ceramics of SnO2 and noble metals have been prepared and investigated for sensing oxidizing NO2 at room temperature. While dramatic increases in resistance were observed for both 1 wt% Pt–SnO2 and 5 wt% Au–SnO2 composite nanoceramics after being exposed to NO2 at room temperature, the largest increase in resistance was observed for 1 wt% Pt–5 wt% –Au–SnO2 composite nanoceramics among the three composites. The response to 0.5 ppm NO2-–20% O2–N2 was as high as 875 at room temperature, with a response time of 2566 s and a recovery time of 450 s in the air of 50% relative humidity (RH). Further investigation revealed that water molecules in the air are essential for recovering the resistance of Pt–Au–SnO2 composite nanoceramics. A room temperature NO2-sensing mechanism has been established, in which NO2 molecules are catalyzed by Pt–Au to be chemisorbed on SnO2 at room temperature, and desorbed from SnO2 by the attraction of water molecules in the air. These results suggest that composite ceramics of metal oxides and noble metals should be promising for room temperature sensing, not only reducing gases, but also oxidizing gases.
Characterization of Conductive Carbon Nanotubes/Polymer Composites for Stretchable Sensors and Transducers
Authors: Fazi Laura , Andreani Carla , D’Ottavi Cadia , Duranti Leonardo , Morales Pietro , Preziosi Enrico , Prioriello Anna , Romanelli Giovanni , Scacco Valerio , Senesi Roberto , Licoccia Silvia
Published: February 2023

The increasing interest in stretchable conductive composite materials, that can be versatile and suitable for wide-ranging application, has sparked a growing demand for studies of scalable fabrication techniques and specifically tailored geometries. Thanks to the combination of the conductivity and robustness of carbon nanotube (CNT) materials with the viscoelastic properties of polymer films, in particular their stretchability, “surface composites” made of a CNT on polymeric films are a promising way to obtain a low-cost, conductive, elastic, moldable, and patternable material. The use of polymers selected for specific applications, however, requires targeted studies to deeply understand the interface interactions between a CNT and the surface of such polymer films, and in particular the stability and durability of a CNT grafting onto the polymer itself. Here, we present an investigation of the interface properties for a selected group of polymer film substrates with different viscoelastic properties by means of a series of different and complementary experimental techniques. Specifically, we studied the interaction of a single-wall carbon nanotube (SWCNT) deposited on two couples of different polymeric substrates, each one chosen as representative of thermoplastic polymers (i.e., low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and polypropylene (PP)) and thermosetting elastomers (i.e., polyisoprene (PI) and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)), respectively. Our results demonstrate that the characteristics of the interface significantly differ for the two classes of polymers with a deeper penetration (up to about 100 μm) into the polymer bulk for the thermosetting substrates. Consequently, the resistance per unit length varies in different ranges, from 1–10 kΩ/cm for typical thermoplastic composite devices (30 μm thick and 2 mm wide) to 0.5–3 MΩ/cm for typical thermosetting elastomer devices (150 μm thick and 2 mm wide). For these reasons, the composites show the different mechanical and electrical responses, therefore suggesting different areas of application of the devices based on such materials.
Unveiling the Pharmacological and Nanotechnological Facets of Daidzein: Present State-of-the-Art and Future Perspectives
Authors: Singh Sukhbir , Grewal Sonam , Sharma Neelam , Behl Tapan , Gupta Sumeet , Anwer Md. Khalid , Vargas-De-La-Cruz Celia , Mohan Syam , Bungau Simona Gabriela , Bumbu Adrian
Published: February 2023

Herbal drugs have been attracting much scientific interest in the last few decades and nowadays, phytoconstituents-based research is in progress to disclose their unidentified medicinal potential. Daidzein (DAI) is the natural phytoestrogen isoflavone derived primarily from leguminous plants, such as the soybean and mung bean, and its IUPAC name is 4′,7-dihydroxyisoflavone. This compound has received great attention as a fascinating pharmacophore with remarkable potential for the therapeutic management of several diseases. Certain pharmacokinetic properties of DAI such as less aqueous solubility, low permeability, and poor bioavailability are major obstacles restricting the therapeutic applications. In this review, distinctive physicochemical characteristics and pharmacokinetics of DAI has been elucidated. The pharmacological applications in treatment of several disorders like oxidative stress, cancer, obesity, cardiovascular, neuroprotective, diabetes, ovariectomy, anxiety, and inflammation with their mechanism of action are explained. Furthermore, this review article comprehensively focuses to provide up-to-date information about nanotechnology-based formulations which have been investigated for DAI in preceding years which includes polymeric nanoparticles, solid lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carrier, polymer-lipid nanoparticles, nanocomplexes, polymeric micelles, nanoemulsion, nanosuspension, liposomes, and self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems.
Augmenting Mental Health Support for Patients Accessing Different Degrees of Formal Psychiatric Care through a Supportive Text Messaging Program: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Dias Raquel da Luz , Shalaby Reham , Agyapong Belinda , Obuobi-Donkor Gloria , Adu Medard K. , Eboreime Ejemai , Obeng Nkrumah Samuel , Sridharan Sanjana , Simon Patryk , Taylor Bryanne , Henderson Neal , White Mathew D. , Maguire Hugh , Gray Gerald , Rahman Faisal , Fair Janah , Wadden Nadine , Sulyman Mutiat , Williams Olugbenga , Akinkunmi Oluseye , Edem Dorothy , Arenella Pamela , Morrison Jason , Awara Mahmoud , Natarajan Anand , Nunes Abraham , Hajek Tomas , O’Donavan Claire , Uher Rudolf , Wang JianLi , Rusak Benjamin , Wozney Lori , Sampalli Tara , Grant Doris , Tomblin Murphy Gail , Warford Jordan , Hodder Samantha , Boe Rachel , Agyapong Vincent Israel Opoku
Published: February 2023

Patients feel more vulnerable when accessing community mental health programs for the first time or after being discharged from psychiatric inpatient units. Long wait times for follow-up appointments, shortage of mental health professionals, lack of service integration, and scarcity of tailored support can weaken their connection to the health care system. As a result, patients can present low adherence, dissatisfaction with treatment, and recurrent hospitalizations. Finding solutions to avoid unnecessary high-cost services and providing tailored and cost-effective mental health interventions may reduce the health system burden and augment patient support. We propose implementing an add-on, supportive text messaging service (Text4Support), developed using cognitive–behavioural therapy (CBT) principles to augment mental health support for patients attending to or being discharged from psychiatric care in Nova Scotia, Canada. This randomized controlled trial aims to investigate the effectiveness of Text4Support in improving mental health outcomes and overall mental well-being compared with usual care. We also will examine the intervention’s impact on health services utilization and patient satisfaction. The results from this study will provide evidence on stepped and technology-based mental health care, which will contribute to generating new knowledge about mental health innovations in various clinical contexts, which is not only helpful for the local context but to other jurisdictions in Canada and abroad that are seeking to improve their health care.
Wavelength- and Angle-Selective Photodetectors Enabled by Graphene Hot Electrons with Tamm Plasmon Polaritons
Authors: Huang Cheng-Han , Wu Chia-Hung , Bikbaev Rashid G. , Ye Ming-Jyun , Chen Chi-Wen , Wang Tung-Jung , Timofeev Ivan V. , Lee Wei , Chen Kuo-Ping
Published: February 2023

Recently, two-dimensional materials have attracted attention owing to their special optical characteristics and miniaturization, with low thickness as well as extremely high responsivity. Additionally, Tamm plasmon polariton (TPP) resonance can be observed by combining a metal film and a one-dimensional (1D) photonic crystal (PC), where an electric field confinement is located at the metal–1D PC interface. In this study, a graphene layer combined with a TPP is proposed as a wavelength- and angle-selective photodetector. The graphene layer is located where the strong field confinement occurs, and the photocurrent response is significantly enhanced with increasing absorption by over four times (from 62.5 μA⋅W−1 to 271 μA⋅W−1 and undetected state to 330 μA⋅W−1 in two different samples). Moreover, the graphene–TPP photodetector has wavelength and angle selectivity, which can be applied in LiDAR detecting, sun sensors, laser beacon tracking, and navigational instruments in the future.
Surface Tamm States of 2–5 nm Nanodiamond via Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Popov Mikhail , Khorobrykh Fedor , Klimin Sergei , Churkin Valentin , Ovsyannikov Danila , Kvashnin Alexander
Published: February 2023

We observed resonance effects in the Raman scattering of nanodiamonds with an average size of 2–5 nm excited at a wavelength of 1064 nm (1.16 eV). The resonant Raman spectrum of the 2–5 nm nanodiamonds consists of bands at wavelengths of 1325 and 1600 cm−1, a band at 1100–1250 cm−1, and a plateau in the range from 1420 to 1630 cm−1. When excited away from the resonance (at a wavelength of 405 nm, 3.1 eV), the Raman spectrum consists of only three bands at 1325, 1500, and 1600 cm−1. It is important to note that the additional lines (1500 and 1600 cm−1) belong to the sp3-hybridized carbon bonds. The phonon density of states for the nanodiamonds (~1 nm) was calculated using moment tensor potentials (MTP), a class of machine-learning interatomic potentials. The presence of these modes in agreement with the lattice dynamics indicates the existence of bonds with force constants higher than in single-crystal diamonds. The observed resonant phenomena of the Raman scattering and the increase in the bulk modulus are explained by the presence of Tamm states with an energy of electronic transitions of approximately 1 eV, previously observed on the surface of single-crystal diamonds.
Heterophase Polymorph of TiO2 (Anatase, Rutile, Brookite, TiO2 (B)) for Efficient Photocatalyst: Fabrication and Activity
Authors: Eddy Diana Rakhmawaty , Permana Muhamad Diki , Sakti Lintang Kumoro , Sheha Geometry Amal Nur , Solihudin  , Hidayat Sahrul , Takei Takahiro , Kumada Nobuhiro , Rahayu Iman
Published: February 2023

TiO2 exists naturally in three crystalline forms: Anatase, rutile, brookite, and TiO2 (B). These polymorphs exhibit different properties and consequently different photocatalytic performances. This paper aims to clarify the differences between titanium dioxide polymorphs, and the differences in homophase, biphase, and triphase properties in various photocatalytic applications. However, homophase TiO2 has various disadvantages such as high recombination rates and low adsorption capacity. Meanwhile, TiO2 heterophase can effectively stimulate electron transfer from one phase to another causing superior photocatalytic performance. Various studies have reported the biphase of polymorph TiO2 such as anatase/rutile, anatase/brookite, rutile/brookite, and anatase/TiO2 (B). In addition, this paper also presents the triphase of the TiO2 polymorph. This review is mainly focused on information regarding the heterophase of the TiO2 polymorph, fabrication of heterophase synthesis, and its application as a photocatalyst.
Stress Relaxation and Grain Growth Behaviors of (111)-Preferred Nanotwinned Copper during Annealing
Authors: Lai Jyun-Yu , Tran Dinh-Phuc , Yang Shih-Chi , Tseng I-Hsin , Shie Kai-Cheng , Leu Jihperng , Chen Chih
Published: February 2023

Highly (111)-oriented nanotwinned Cu (nt-Cu) films were fabricated on silicon wafers for thermal-stress characterization. We tailored the microstructural features (grain scale and orientation) of the films by tuning the electroplating parameters. The films were heat-treated and the relaxation behaviors of thermal stresses in the films were explored using a bending beam system. Focused ion beam (FIB) and electron back-scattered diffraction (EBSD) were then employed to characterize the transformations of the microstructure, grain size, and orientation degree of the films. The results indicated that the degree of (111)-preferred orientation and grain size significantly decrease with increasing the current density. The nt-Cu films with a higher degree of (111)-preferred orientation and larger grains exhibit the slower rates of stress relaxation. The film with larger grains possesses a smaller grain boundary area; thus, the grain boundary diffusion for the thermal-stress release is suppressed. In addition, the induced tensile stress in the films with larger grains is smaller leading to the difference in microstructural changes under annealing.
Seed-Mediated Synthesis of Thin Gold Nanoplates with Tunable Edge Lengths and Optical Properties
Authors: Qiao Zhun , Wei Xinyu , Liu Hongpo , Liu Kai , Gao Chuanbo
Published: February 2023

Thin Au nanoplates show intriguing localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) properties with potential applications in various fields. The conventional synthesis of Au nanoplates usually involves the formation of spherical nanoparticles or produces nanoplates with large thicknesses. Herein, we demonstrate a synthesis of uniform thin Au nanoplates by using Au–Ag alloy nanoframes obtained by the galvanic replacement of Ag nanoplates with HAuCl4 as the seeds and a sulfite (SO32−) as a ligand. The SO32− ligand not only complexes with the Au salt for the controlled reduction kinetics but also strongly adsorbs on Au {111} facets for effectively constraining the crystal growth on both basal sides of the Au nanoplates for controlled shape and reduced thicknesses. This seed-mediated synthesis affords Au nanoplates with a thickness of only 7.5 nm, although the thickness increases with the edge length. The edge length can be customizable in a range of 48–167 nm, leading to tunable LSPR bands in the range of 600–1000 nm. These thin Au nanoplates are applicable not only to surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy with enhanced sensitivity and reliability but also to a broader range of LSPR-based applications.
Evolution of the Morphology and Magnetic Properties of Flaky FeSiAl/MFe2O4 (M = Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn) Composites
Authors: Ge Chuannan , Lei Chenglong , Wang Bo , Wang Yakun , Peng Zhouhao , Wang Zhitong , Guo Yunjun
Published: February 2023

Nanosized spinel ferrites MFe2O4 (M = Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn)-coated flaky FeSiAl alloy composites were synthesized successfully. Nano-ferrites preferentially grow into nanoplatelets due to induced or restricted growth on the flaky surface of FeSiAl. With annealing temperature increasing, the ferrites’ nanosheets thicken gradually and then grow into irregular particles. The annealing temperature not only affects the nanosized morphology and coating but also the magnetic properties of flaky FeSiAl composites. The saturation magnetization of CuFe2O4- or NiFe2O4-coated FeSiAl is approximate 69 emu/g, where the value of MnFe2O4-, CoFe2O4- and ZnFe2O4-coated FeSiAl show a decreasing trend generally from 64 emu/g to 55.7 emu/g annealing at 800 °C, respectively. The saturation magnetization of flaky FeSiAl composites was improved with the increased annealing temperature, except for those coated with ZnFe2O4 and NiFe2O4. These results are useful for improving the comprehensive properties of ferrite-coated flaky FeSiAl alloy composites.
LncRNA MALAT1 Regulates Hyperglycemia Induced EMT in Keratinocyte via miR-205
Authors: Zhang Liping , Hung George Chu-Chih , Meng Songmei , Evans Robin , Xu Junwang
Published: February 2023

Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is critical to cutaneous wound healing. When skin is injured, EMT activates and mobilizes keratinocytes toward the wound bed, therefore enabling re-epithelialization. This process becomes dysregulated in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM). Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) regulate many biological processes. LncRNA-metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) influences numerous cellular processes, including EMT. The objective of the current study is to explore the role of MALAT1 in hyperglycemia (HG)-induced EMT. The expression of MALAT1 was found to be significantly upregulated, while the expression of miR-205 was downregulated in diabetic wounds and high-glucose-treated HaCaT cells. The initiation of EMT in HaCaT cells from hyperglycemia was confirmed by a morphological change, the increased expression of CDH2, KRT10, and ACTA2, and the downregulation of CDH1. The knockdown of MALAT1 was achieved by transfecting a small interfering RNA (SiRNA). MALAT1 and miR-205 were found to modulate HG-induced EMT. MALAT1 silencing or miR-205 overexpression appears to attenuate hyperglycemia-induced EMT. Mechanistically, MALAT1 affects HG-induced EMT through binding to miR-205 and therefore inducing ZEB1, a critical transcription factor for EMT. In summary, lncRNA MALAT1 is involved in the hyperglycemia-induced EMT of human HaCaT cells. This provides a new perspective on the pathogenesis of diabetic wounds.
Intraoperative Fluorescein Sodium in Pediatric Neurosurgery: A Preliminary Case Series from a Singapore Children’s Hospital
Authors: Tan Audrey J. L. , Tey Min Li , Seow Wan Tew , Low David C. Y. , Chang Kenneth T. E. , Ng Lee Ping , Looi Wen Shen , Wong Ru Xin , Tan Enrica E. K. , Low Sharon Y. Y.
Published: February 2023

(1) Background: Fluorescein sodium (Na-Fl) has been described as a safe and useful neurosurgical adjunct in adult neurooncology. However, its use has yet to be fully established in children. We designed a study to investigate the use of intraoperative Na-Fl in pediatric brain tumor surgery. (2) Methods: This is a single-institution study for pediatric brain tumor patients managed by the Neurosurgical Service, KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital. Inclusion criteria consists of patients undergoing surgery for suspected brain tumors from 3 to 19 years old. A predefined intravenous dose of 2 mg/kg of 10% Na-Fl is administered per patient. Following craniotomy, surgery is performed under alternating white light and YELLOW-560 nm filter illumination. (3) Results: A total of 21 patients with suspected brain tumours were included. Median age was 12.1 years old. For three patients (14.3%), there was no significant Na-Fl fluorescence detected and their final histologies reported a cavernoma and two radiation-induced high grade gliomas. The remaining patients (85.7%) had adequate intraoperative fluorescence for their lesions. No adverse side effects were encountered with the use of Na-Fl. (4) Conclusions: Preliminary findings demonstrate the safe and efficacious use of intraoperative Na-Fl for brain tumors as a neurosurgical adjunct in our pediatric patients.
Multiplex ddPCR: A Promising Diagnostic Assay for Early Detection and Drug Monitoring in Bovine Theileriosis
Authors: Murthy Shweta , Suresh Akash , Dandasena Debabrata , Singh Sakshi , Subudhi Madhusmita , Bhandari Vasundhra , Bhanot Vandna , Arora Jaspreet Singh , Sharma Paresh
Published: February 2023

Accurate quantification based on nucleic acid amplification is necessary to avoid the spread of pathogens, making early diagnosis essential. Droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) stands out for absolute parasite quantification because it combines microfluidics with the TaqMan test. This helps deliver maximum accuracy without needing a reference curve. This study assessed the efficacy of ddPCR as a detection tool for the bovine theileriosis (BT) caused by Theileria parasites. We developed and validated a duplex ddPCR method that detects and quantifies the Theileria genus (18S rRNA) and identifies clinically significant Theileria annulata parasites (TaSP) in experimental and clinical samples. ddPCR was shown to be as effective as qPCR throughout a 10-fold sample dilution range. However, ddPCR was more sensitive than qPCR at lower parasite DNA concentrations and reliably assessed up to 8.5 copies/µL of the TaSP gene in the infected DNA (0.01 ng) samples. The ddPCR was very accurate and reproducible, and it could follow therapeutic success in clinical cases of theileriosis. In conclusion, our ddPCR assays were highly sensitive and precise, providing a valuable resource for the study of absolute parasite quantification, drug treatment monitoring, epidemiological research, large-scale screening, and the identification of asymptomatic parasite reservoirs in the pursuit of BT eradication.
Successful Removal of Angiostrongylus cantonensis Larvae from the Central Nervous System of Rats 7- and 14-Days Post-Infection Using a Product Containing Moxidectin, Sarolaner and Pyrantel Embonate (Simparica Trio™) in Experimental Infections
Authors: Henry Michaela , Malik Richard , Šlapeta Jan , Lee Rogan
Published: February 2023

Angiostrongylus cantonensis is a nematode with an indirect lifecycle, using molluscs as intermediate hosts. Rats are the definitive host. By administering a suitable anthelmintic, at an appropriate interval, the risk of clinical neuroangiostrongyliasis occurring in paratenic hosts (e.g., dogs, man) can be eliminated. We wanted to determine if infective larvae (L3) of A. cantonensis can be safely killed during their migration through the central nervous system (CNS) by oral administration of an anthelmintic combination containing moxidectin (480 µg/kg, Simparica Trio™; M-S-P), thereby preventing patent infections in rats. Eighteen rats were used: ten received oral M-S-P every four weeks; eight rats were used as controls. Rats were initially given M-S-P as a chew to eat, but an acquired food aversion meant that subsequent doses were given by orogastric lavage. All 18 rats were challenged once or twice with approximately 30 L3 A. cantonensis larvae via orogastric lavage. Infection status was determined by faecal analysis using the Baermann technique and necropsy examination of the heart, pulmonary arteries and lungs. Eight out of ten rats dosed with M-S-P had zero lungworms at necropsy; a single female worm was detected in each of the remaining two rats. No treated rats had L1 larvae in faeces. In contrast, all eight controls were infected with patent infections, with a median of 14.5 worms per rat detected at necropsy. The difference in infection rates was significant (two tailed Fishers Exact; p = 0.0011). Moxidectin given orally once every month killed migrating larvae before they reached the pulmonary arteries in 80% of treated rats, while in 20%, only a single female worm was present. Considering the short half-life of moxidectin in the rat, it is likely that the effectiveness of moxidectin is due to larvicidal action on migrating L3, L4 and L5 larvae in the brain parenchyma or subarachnoid space, either 7 days (L3/L4 in cerebrum and spinal cord) or 14 days (L4/L5 in cerebrum and subarachnoid space) after inoculation. This study is a prelude for future research to determine if monthly moxidectin administration orally as M-S-P could prevent symptomatic neuroangiostrongyliasis in dogs.
Automatic Spatial Filtering by Combining Wavelet-Transform Modal Maxima and Mathematical Morphology in Digital Holographic Microscopy
Authors: Xiong Hu , Zhang Dawei
Published: February 2023

Digital holographic microscopy has significant advantages over traditional 3D measurements. In order to obtain a reconstructed image of superior quality, the zero-order-term spectrum and the −1 term spectrum must be eliminated during the digital reconstruction. At the same time, digital holographic microscopy has changed from the traditional manual selection of the +1 term spectrum to the automatic selection of the +1 term spectrum. In the process of spatial filtering of the +1 term spectrum, the filtering window is crucial, and the shape of the filtering window and the robustness of the filtering window to noise will ultimately affect the reconstruction results. In this paper, we propose an automatic spatial filtering method that combines wavelet transform and mathematical morphology to automatically extract the +1 term spectrum. Compared with conventional methods, the reconstruction results are more accurate and robust to noise, and the experimental results verify the feasibility of the proposed method.
Comprehensive Analysis of Copper Plasma: A Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopic Approach
Authors: Ajith Asokan , Swapna Mohanachandran Nair Sindhu , Cabrera Humberto , Sankararaman Sankaranarayana Iyer
Published: February 2023

The emergence of diversified applications of laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy in the biomedical field, electronics, space physics, and material processing necessitates a comprehensive understanding of plasma parameters. The present work delineates the structure and evolution of copper plasma under different ambient pressures (0.01 mbar to 100 mbar) along with other plasma parameters. The study reveals the role of ambient pressure in the increase of plasma temperature (Te), electron density (Ne), number of particles in the Debye sphere, plasma frequency, inverse bremsstrahlung absorption coefficient, electron thermal velocity, electron–ion collision frequency and in the decrease of Debye length (λD) and plasma skin depth (PSD). The experimental techniques and the theoretical explanations for the variation of plasma parameters and their applications are also detailed. As the ambient pressure increases, the motion of plasma species becomes restricted, resulting in the increase of Te, calculated using the Boltzmann plot. From the values of λD, PSD, and Ne, it is understood that the copper plasma under investigation is thermally non-relativistic and satisfies McWhirter’s criterion, thus, revealing the local thermodynamic equilibrium condition of plasma. The effects of Debye shielding and stark broadening on the spectral lines are also investigated. Thus, the study helps bring newfangled dimensions to the application of plasma by exploring the possibility of tailoring plasma parameters.
Light Intensity Affects the Assimilation Rate and Carbohydrates Partitioning in Spinach Grown in a Controlled Environment
Authors: Proietti Simona , Paradiso Roberta , Moscatello Stefano , Saccardo Francesco , Battistelli Alberto
Published: February 2023

The cultivation of spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) has been increasing during the last years in controlled environment agriculture, where light represents a key factor for controlling plant growth and development and the highest energetic costs. The aim of the experiment was to evaluate the plant’s response to two light intensities, corresponding to an optimal and a reduced level, in terms of the photosynthetic process, photoassimilates partitioning, and the biosynthesis of sucrose and starch. Plants of spinach cv. ‘Gigante d’Inverno’ were grown in a phytotron under controlled conditions, comparing two values of photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD), 800 μmol m−2 s−1 (800 PPFD) and 200 μmol m−2 s−1 (200 PPFD), at a 10 h light/14 h dark regime. Compared to 800 PPFD, under 200 PPFD, plants showed a reduction in biomass accumulation and a redirection of photoassimilates to leaves, determining a leaf expansion to optimize the light interception, without changes in the photosynthetic process. A shift in carbon partitioning favouring the synthesis of starch, causing an increase in the starch/sucrose ratio at the end of light period, occurred in low-light leaves. The activity of enzymes cFBAse, SPS, and AGPase, involved in the synthesis of sucrose and starch in leaves, decreased under lower light intensity, explaining the rate of accumulation of photoassimilates.
Application of Genetic Resources in the Development of New Lithuanian Vegetable Cultivars
Authors: Karklelienė Rasa , Juškevičienė Danguolė , Radzevičius Audrius
Published: February 2023

The investigations of genetic resources in Lithuania started in 1924. Collections including more than 110 samples of different vegetable species have been accumulated and continue to expand. The breeding program is focused on productivity, quality traits and biochemical composition, and tolerance of unfavorable environmental factors in changing climates. Currently, over 95 cultivars and hybrids of vegetables have been released, about 40 of which are included in the EU Common catalogue of varieties of vegetable species. From 2012 to 2021, twelve cultivars were developed at the Lithuanian Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry, seven of which are fruit vegetables, four are root crops, and two are in the onion group. The breeding direction was to increase the sustainable production of vegetables and improve the quality of the products by using national and adapted genetic resources as valuable parental forms. For 10 years, vegetable plant hybrids and cultivars were developed to meet commercial cultivars’ market requirements. The tomato cultivars ‘Ainiai’ H, ‘Adas’ H, ‘Auksiai’ H, ‘Alvita’ and cucumber cultivar ‘Roliai’ are distinguished by a good biochemical composition and taste, while the sweet pepper cultivar ‘Gabija’ has high productivity and fruit quality. The carrot hybrids ‘Ieva’, ‘Rokita’, ‘Jola’, garlic cultivar ‘Dangiai’, and onion cultivar ‘Joriai’ are distinguished by their productivity and good storage ability. The Jerusalem artichoke cultivar ‘Sauliai’ has tubers with white skin and the colour of the flowers is yellow.
Conserving Citrus Diversity: From Vavilov’s Early Explorations to Genebanks around the World
Authors: Volk Gayle M. , Gmitter Frederick G. , Krueger Robert R.
Published: February 2023

Citrus is among the most economically important fruit crops. Its vast species diversity and global production was observed by N.I. Vavilov during his international plant explorations from the early to mid-1900s. Currently, ex situ citrus collections located around the world conserve and protect citrus genetic resources, as revealed in a survey conducted in 2021. Responses were received from 43 collections in 27 countries, of which 35 provided data regarding collection composition, management practices, and security, as well as other information. The six largest citrus collections have between 1000 and 1735 accessions. The largest accession holdings are mandarins and sweet oranges, although all citrus fruit types are maintained: mandarin, sweet orange, lemon, pummelo, grapefruit, hybrids, lime, sour orange, citron, kumquat, papeda, finger lime, and crop wild relatives. Diseases pose significant threats to collections, though some collections are maintained in a clean-plant state as a result of intensive sanitation efforts. National and regional quarantine regulations often limit the export and import of citrus plants or propagative materials, thus limiting the availability of materials at an international level. Resources, both financial and human, are necessary to ensure the long-term safety and security of citrus collections on a global scale. Future efforts to develop citrus genebanking communities will provide opportunities for improved conservation, as well as collaborations and training.
Essential Oils and Biological Activities of Eucalyptus falcata, E. sideroxylon and E. citriodora Growing in Tunisia
Authors: Amri Ismail , Khammassi Marwa , Ben Ayed Rayda , Khedhri Sana , Mansour Manel Ben , Kochti Oumayma , Pieracci Ylenia , Flamini Guido , Mabrouk Yassine , Gargouri Samia , Hanana Mohsen , Hamrouni Lamia
Published: February 2023

Many plants are able to synthesize essential oils (EOs), which play key roles in defense against weeds, fungi and pests. This study aims to analyze the chemical composition and to highlight the antioxidant, antimicrobial and phytotoxic properties of the EOs from Eucalyptus falcata, E. sideroxylon and E. citriodora growing in Tunisia. EOs were analyzed by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and their antioxidant properties were determined by total antioxidant capacity (TAC), DPPH and ABTS assays. The phytotoxic potential was assessed against weeds (Sinapis arvensis, Phalaris canariensis) and durum wheat crop (Triticum durum) and compared to chemical herbicide glyphosate. The antifungal activity was investigated in vitro against eight target fungal strains. All EOs displayed a specific richness in oxygenated monoterpenes (51.3–90%) and oxygenated sesquiterpenes (4.8–29.4%), and 1,8-cineole, citronellal, citronellol, trans-pinocarveol, globulol, spathulenol and citronellyl acetate were the main constituents. Eucalyptus EOs exhibited remarkable antioxidant activity and E. citriodora oil exhibited significant activity when compared with E. falcata and E. sideroxylon EOs. The phytotoxic potential of the tested oils had different efficacy on seed germination and the growth of seedlings and varied among tested herbs and their chemical composition variability. Their effectiveness was better than that of glyphosate. At the post-emergence stage, symptoms of chlorosis and necrosis were observed. Furthermore, a decrease in chlorophyll and relative water content, electrolyte leakage and high levels of MDA and proline were indicators of the oxidative effects of EOs and their effectiveness as bioherbicides. Moreover, all the EOs exhibited moderate fungitoxic properties against all the tested fungal strains. Therefore, according to the obtained results, Eucalyptus EOs could have potential application as natural pesticides.
3′-Demethoxy-6-O-Demethylisoguaiacin and Norisoguaiacin Nematocidal Lignans from Artemisia cina against Haemonchus contortus Infective Larvae
Authors: Higuera-Piedrahita Rosa Isabel , Dolores-Hernández Mariana , Cruz-Cruz Héctor Alejandro de la , López-Arellano Raquel , Gives Pedro Mendoza-de , Olmedo-Juárez Agustín , Cuéllar-Ordaz Jorge Alfredo , González-Cortazar Manasés , Ble-González Ever A. , López-Arellano María Eugenia , Zamilpa Alejandro
Published: February 2023

Artemisia cina is a plant used in traditional Chinese medicine as a remedy for parasitic diseases. This study describes the isolation and chemical characterization of anthelmintic compounds of A. cina against Haemonchus contortus infective larvae (L3) through lethal testing. Previously, three extracts—n-hexane (HexAc), ethyl acetate (EtOAc) and methanol (MeOAc)—were evaluated at concentrations of 4 to 0.5 mg/mL, resulting in the HexAc extract with the greatest effect of 76.6% mortality of the larvae at 4 mg/mL. Then, this was chemically fractioned by polarity, obtaining seven fractions (C1F1–C1F7), and, when evaluated at concentrations from 2 to 0.25 mg/mL, the 2 mg/mL C1F5 fraction produced an effect against the nematode H. contortus of 100% mortality of the larvae. Thus, this fraction was fractionated again by column chromatography, obtaining twelve subfractions (C2F1–C2F12) which were evaluated from 1 to 0.125 mg/mL, with the C2F5 subfraction causing a nematicidal effect of 100% mortality. NMR analysis of one (1H, 13C and DEPT) and two dimensions (COSY, HSQC and HMBC) and mass spectrometry of this fraction allowed us to identify the mixture of 3′-demethoxy-6-O-demethylisoguaiacin and norisoguaiacin. Therefore, it can be assumed that the mixture of these compounds is responsible for the anthelmintic effect. These results indicate that A. cina containing anthelmintic compounds and might be used as an antiparasitic drug against H. contortus.
Antagonistic Strain Bacillus halotolerans Jk-25 Mediates the Biocontrol of Wheat Common Root Rot Caused by Bipolaris sorokiniana
Authors: Kang Kun , Niu Zhipeng , Zhang Wei , Wei Shan , Lv Yangyong , Hu Yuansen
Published: February 2023

Common root rot caused by Bipolaris sorokiniana infestation in wheat is one of the main reasons for yield reduction in wheat crops worldwide. The bacterium strain JK-25 used in the current investigation was isolated from wheat rhizosphere soil and was later identified as Bacillus halotolerans based on its morphological, physiological, biochemical, and molecular properties. The strain showed significant antagonism to B. sorokiniana, Fusarium oxysporum, Fusarium graminearum, and Rhizoctonia zeae. Inhibition of B. sorokiniana mycelial dry weight and spore germination rate by JK-25 fermentation supernatant reached 60% and 88%, respectively. The crude extract of JK-25 was found, by Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS), to contain the surfactin that exerted an inhibitory effect on B. sorokiniana. The disruption of mycelial cell membranes was observed under laser scanning confocal microscope (LSCM) after treatment of B. sorokiniana mycelium with the crude extract. The antioxidant enzyme activity of B. sorokiniana was significantly reduced and the oxidation product malondialdehyde (MDA) content increased after treatment with the crude extract. The incidence of root rot was significantly reduced in pot experiments with the addition of JK-25 culture fermentation supernatant, which had a significant biological control effect of 72.06%. Its ability to produce siderophores may help to promote wheat growth and the production of proteases and pectinases may also be part of the strain’s role in suppressing pathogens. These results demonstrate the excellent antagonistic effect of JK-25 against B. sorokiniana and suggest that this strain has great potential as a resource for biological control of wheat root rot strains.
Postharvest Application of Acibenzolar-S-Methyl Activates Salicylic Acid Pathway Genes in Kiwifruit Vines
Authors: Reglinski Tony , Vanneste Joel L. , Schipper Magan M. , Cornish Deirdre A. , Yu Janet , Oldham Jenny M. , Fehlmann Christina , Parry Frank , Hedderley Duncan
Published: February 2023

The plant defence inducer Actigard® (acibenzolar-S-methyl [ASM]) is applied before flowering and after fruit harvest to control bacterial canker in kiwifruit caused by Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae. Pre-flowering application of ASM is known to upregulate defence gene expression; however, the effect of postharvest ASM on defence gene expression in the vine is unknown. In this study, the expression of eight ”defence marker” genes was measured in the leaves of Actinidia chinensis var. chinensis, ”Zesy002,” and Actinidia chinensis var. deliciosa, “Hayward,” vines after postharvest treatment with ASM and/or copper. There were two orchards per cultivar with harvest dates approximately three weeks apart for investigating potential changes in responsiveness to ASM during the harvest period. In all trials, postharvest ASM induced the expression of salicylic-acid-pathway defence genes PR1, PR2, PR5, BAD, DMR6, NIMIN2, and WRKY70. Gene upregulation was the greatest at 1 day and 7 days after treatment and declined to the control level after 3 weeks. In “Zesy002”, the ASM-induced response was greater at the early harvest site than at the late harvest site. This decline was concomitant with leaf yellowing and a reduction in RNA yield. Effects of postharvest ASM on gene expression did not persist into the following spring, nor were vines conditioned to respond more strongly to pre-flowering ASM application.
Solving the Two-Crane Scheduling Problem in the Pre-Steelmaking Process
Authors: Xie Xie , Zheng Yongyue , Mu Tianwei , Wan Fucai , Dong Hai
Published: February 2023

This research is motivated by the practical pre-steelmaking stage in large iron and steel companies, which have steady and heavy demands for the steelmaking production process. Our problem studied the pre-steelmaking stage, which consists of two steps that are needed in each convertor before the steelmaking process. During each step, a necessary transportation must be operated by a crane. In contrast to the classical two-machine flowshop problem during which both machines are fixed, these transporting operations are performed by two mounted, removeable cranes. Our problem is scheduling two-crane operations for the sake of minimizing the last convertors’ completion time (makespan); that is, the last finish time among the total operation of the two cranes is minimized. This study was concerned with resolving the interference between two cranes by determining the sequence of loading operations and how each crane avoids the other in order to let it complete its next operation first. A mixed integer linear programming (MILP) model was developed to represent the problem, and we further present the computational complexity of the problem. The result implies that our problem is very difficult to solve, and it is computationally challenging to solve the model. A special case is provided, which can be optimally solved in polynomial time. Furthermore, an evolutionary algorithm cuckoo search (CS) algorithm was attempted to obtain near-optimal solutions for medium- and large-scale problems. Finally, the efficiency and effectiveness of our methods were validated by numerical results in both simulated instances as well as real data from a practical production process.
Correction: Gavan et al. Development and Evaluation of Hydrogel Wound Dressings Loaded with Herbal Extracts. Processes 2022, 10, 242
Authors: Gavan Alexandru , Colobatiu Liora , Hanganu Daniela , Bogdan Catalina , Olah Neli Kinga , Achim Marcela , Mirel Simona
Published: February 2023

In the original publication, there was a mistake in Figure 6 [...]
Study on Water Intake Characteristics and Influencing Parameters of Drinking Water Emergency Extraction Vehicle
Authors: Hou Yaoqing , Li Gangyan , Bao Hanwei , Zhao Ran , Zhang Wen
Published: February 2023

In this paper, by analyzing the heat and mass transfer characteristics of the dehumidification runner microelement channel of a drinking water emergency extraction vehicle, a mathematical model of heat and mass transfer in the water intake process is established, and the influence of the runner parameters (adsorbent thickness, regeneration angle, rotation speed) and air parameters (treatment air temperature/humidity, regenerated air temperature/humidity) on the water intake characteristics is mainly studied. Water extraction experiments are carried out in arid desert areas and humid island environments. The test results showed that compared with the calculated data, the deviations in the temperature and humidity of the treated air outlet were 3.03% and 4.14%, respectively, and the deviation value of the water intake was 8.23% when the moisture content of the inlet air was 2 g/kg.
Fault Diagnosis Algorithm of Gearboxes Based on GWO-SCE Adaptive Multi-Threshold Segmentation and Subdomain Adaptation
Authors: Liu Yangshuo , Kang Jianshe , Wen Liang , Bai Yunjie , Guo Chiming , Yu Weibo
Published: February 2023

The data distribution of the vibration signal under different speed conditions of the gearbox is different, which leads to reduced accuracy of fault diagnosis. In this regard, this paper proposes a deep transfer fault diagnosis algorithm combining adaptive multi-threshold segmentation and subdomain adaptation. First of all, in the data acquisition stage, a non-contact, easy-to-arrange, and low-cost sound pressure sensor is used to collect equipment signals, which effectively solves the problems of contact installation limitations and increasingly strict layout requirements faced by traditional vibration signal-based methods. The continuous wavelet transform (CWT) is then used to convert the original vibration signal of the device into time–frequency image samples. Further, to highlight the target fault characteristics of the samples, the gray wolf optimization algorithm (GWO) is combined with symmetric cross entropy (SCE) to perform adaptive multi-threshold segmentation on the image samples. A convolutional neural network (CNN) is then used to extract the common features of the source domain samples and the target domain samples. Additionally, the local maximum mean discrepancy (LMMD) is introduced into the parameter space of the deep fully connected layer of the network to align the sub-field edge distribution of deep features so as to reduce the distribution difference of sub-class fault features under different working conditions and improve the diagnostic accuracy of the model. Finally, to verify the effectiveness of the proposed diagnosis method, a fault preset experiment of the gearbox under variable speed conditions is carried out. The results show that compared to other diagnostic methods, the method in this paper has higher diagnostic accuracy and superiority.
Analysis of the Carreau Model Mixed Mechanism with a Stir Shaft in Color FDM Printing
Authors: Gan Xinji , Wang Zhang , Xing Zhongyuan , Chong Perk Lin , Yazdi Mohammad Hossein
Published: February 2023

Conventionally, fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing allows for multiple color printing, but it is limited to only various monochromatic colors. Consequently, the effect of progressive color transition cannot be reflected. To produce the progressive 3-D color printing effect, the only solution is to implement stereolithography technology, which is particularly expensive. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to develop a color mixing mechanism to be incorporated into an FDM 3D printer, which is relatively inexpensive. The underlying idea is to pre-mix the color so that the FDM 3D printer can produce a progressive color printing effect. Three conceptual color mixing mechanisms are designed, i.e., a triangular stirring shaft, a rectangular spoiler stirring shaft, and a spiral blade stirring shaft. The mixing process is modeled based on the non-Newtonian fluid theory, in which the Carreau model is used to simulate the motion of pseudoplastic fluids in FDM 3D printing under forced mixing. The resulting mixing ratio produced by all the designs is computed, which inspires the integrated design of rectangular spoiler stirring shaft and the spiral blade string shaft. Subsequently, the axial velocity of the mixed-color fluid, which increases from inlet to outlet, is verified. The integrated design is then fabricated and incorporated into the FDM 3D printer, and the progressive color printing effect is practically demonstrated.