bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physicochemical, Structural and Antioxidant Properties of Collagens from the Swim Bladder of Four Fish Species
Authors: Dong Ye , Dai Zhiyuan
Published: August 2022

This study aimed to isolate and characterize pepsin-solubilized collagen (PSC) from marine and freshwater fish swim bladders. The physicochemical properties, protein pattern, amino acid composition, structure, thermal denaturation temperature, and antioxidant activity of PSC from four different swim bladder sources were investigated and compared. The results demonstrated that the four types of collagen extracted were all type I collagen. The yield of PSC extracted from grass carp (GCSB-PSC), bighead carp (BCSB-PSC), grouper (GSB-PSC), and monkfish swim bladders (MSB-PSC) were 38.98, 27.97, 18.16, and 10.35%, respectively. Compared to the other three PSCs, BCSB-PSC has the highest thermal denaturation temperature (38.60 °C). Based on FTIR spectroscopy and circular dichroism (CD) analysis, the extracted PSCs retained the triple helix and secondary structure well. Antioxidant studies showed that in the swim bladders of four species the swim bladder PSC could scavenge DPPH and ABTS radicals. Overall, swim bladders from marine and freshwater fish can be utilized as raw materials for collagen extraction, and the extracted collagen has potential commercial applications.
pH and pCl Operational Parameters in Some Metallic Ions Separation with Composite Chitosan/Sulfonated Polyether Ether Ketone/Polypropylene Hollow Fibers Membranes
Authors: Cimbru Anca Maria , Rikabi Abbas Abdul Kadhim Klaif , Oprea Ovidiu , Grosu Alexandra Raluca , Tanczos Szidonia-Katalin , Simonescu Maria Claudia , Pașcu Dumitru , Grosu Vlad-Alexandru , Dumitru Florina , Nechifor Gheorghe
Published: August 2022

The development of new composite membranes is required to separate chemical species from aggressive environments without using corrective reagents. One such case is represented by the high hydrochloric acid mixture (very low pH and pCl) that contains mixed metal ions, or that of copper, cadmium, zinc and lead ions in a binary mixture (Cu–Zn and Cd–Pb) or quaternary mixture. This paper presents the obtaining of a composite membrane chitosan (Chi)–sulfonated poly (ether ether ketone) (sPEEK)–polypropylene hollow fiber (Chi/sPEEK/PPHF) and its use in the separation of binary or quaternary mixtures of copper, cadmium, zinc, and lead ions by nanofiltration and pertraction. The obtained membranes were morphologically and structurally characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high resolution SEM (HR–SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy analysis (EDAX), Fourier Transform InfraRed (FTIR) spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and differential scanning calorimetry (TGA-DSC), but also used in preliminary separation tests. Using the ion solutions in hydrochloric acid 3 mol/L, the separation of copper and zinc or cadmium and lead ions from binary mixtures was performed. The pertraction results were superior to those obtained by nanofiltration, both in terms of extraction efficiency and because at pertraction, the separate cation was simultaneously concentrated by an order of magnitude. The mixture of the four cations was separated by nanofiltration (at 5 bars, using a membrane of a 1 m2 active area) by varying two operational parameters: pH and pCl. Cation retention could reach 95% when adequate values of operational parameters were selected. The paper makes some recommendations for the use of composite membranes, chitosan (Chi)–sulfonated poly (ether ether ketone) (sPEEK)–polypropylene hollow fiber (Chi/sPEEK/PPHF), so as to obtain the maximum possible retention of the target cation.
Pebax-Based Composite Membranes with High Transport Properties Enhanced by ZIF-8 for CO2 Separation
Authors: Eljaddi Tarik , Bouillon Julien , Roizard Denis , Lebrun Laurent
Published: August 2022

A series of mixed matrix membranes containing poly (ether-block-amide) Pebax 1657 as matrix and polyethylene glycol (PEG) and Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework-8 (ZIF-8) as additives, were prepared and tested for CO2 separation. The membranes were prepared by solvent evaporation method and were characterized by TGA, DSC, SEM, and gas permeation measurements. The effects of PEG and its molecular weight, and the percentage of ZIF-8 into Pebax matrix were investigated. The results showed that the addition of PEG to Pebax/ZIF-8 blends avoid the agglomeration of ZIF-8 particles. A synergic effect between PEG and ZIF was particularly observed for high ZIF-8 content, because the initial permeability of pristine Pebax was multiplied by three (from 54 to 161 Barrers) while keeping the CO2 selectivity (αCO2/N2 = 61, αCO2/CH4 = 12 and αCO2/O2 = 23). Finally, the mechanism of CO2 transport is essentially governed by the solubility of CO2 into the membranes. Therefore, this new Pebax/PEG/ZIF-8 system seems to be a promising approach to develop new selective membranes for CO2 with high permeability.
Nitrogen Recovery from Landfill Leachate Using Lab- and Pilot-Scale Membrane Contactors: Research into Fouling Development and Membrane Characterization Effects
Authors: Righetto Ilaria , Al-Juboori Raed A. , Kaljunen Juho Uzkurt , Huynh Ngoc , Mikola Anna
Published: August 2022

Membrane contactor technology affords great opportunities for nitrogen recovery from waste streams. This study presents a performance comparison between lab- and pilot-scale membrane contactors using landfill leachate samples. Polypropylene (PP) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) fibers in different dimensions were compared in terms of ammonia (NH3) recovery on a lab scale using a synthetic ammonium solution. The effect of pre-treating the leachate with tannin coagulation on nitrogen recovery was also evaluated. An ammonia transfer on the lab and pilot scale was scrutinized using landfill leachate as a feed solution. It was found that PTFE fibers performed better than PP fibers. Among PTFE fibers, the most porous one (denoted as M1) had the highest NH3 flux of 19.2 g/m2.h. Tannin pre-treatment reduced fouling and increased NH3, which in turn improved nitrogen recovery. The mass transfer coefficient of the lab-scale reactor was more than double that of the pilot reactor (1.80 × 10−7 m/s vs. 4.45 × 10−7 m/s). This was likely attributed to the difference in reactor design. An analysis of the membrane surface showed that the landfill leachate caused a combination of inorganic and organic fouling. Cleaning with UV and 0.01 M H2O2 was capable of removing the fouling completely and restoring the membrane characteristics.
Polymer Inclusion Membranes with P507-TBP Carriers for Lithium Extraction from Brines
Authors: Zeng Xianjie , Xu Li , Deng Tao , Zhang Chengyi , Xu Wei , Zhang Wen
Published: August 2022

The separation of lithium and magnesium from salt-lake brines with high Mg2+/Li+ ratios is a main challenge for lithium extraction. In this work, novel polymer inclusion membranes (PIMs) were developed by incorporating 2-ethylhexyl phosphonic acid mono 2-ethylhexyl (P507) and tributyl phosphate (TBP) as the carriers into cellulose triacetate (CTA) polymers. The Li+ could be stripped from the P507-TBP extracting carriers using pure water eluents without adding concentrated hydrochloric acid, which can help decrease carriers’ leakage risk from membrane matrixes and keep the stability of PIMs. The morphology, composition, and wettability of P507-TBP-based PIMs were characterized systematically, and the carrier content in the PIM was also optimized. In the transport experiment with the feed of 0.1 mol/L LiCl and 4.0 mol/L MgCl2, the CTA/P507-TBP60% membrane exhibits a Li+ permeability of 4.76 × 10−3 mol·m−2·h−1 and a Li/Mg separation ratio of 10.2. After recycling seven times, the selectivity of the PIM is well-retained (>10), and the permeability of Li+ decreases slightly (less than 15%). With a decent selectivity and excellent stability, PIMs containing P507-TBP carriers show great potential for sustainable and efficient lithium recovery from brines with high Mg/Li ratios.
Utilization of Metal Oxides Nanoparticles in Modulating Polyvinyl Chloride Films to Resist Ultraviolet Light
Authors: Mujbil Hussein H. , Al Jebur Layla A. , Yousif Emad , Kadhom Mohammed , Mohammed Alaa , Ahmed Dina S. , Ali Muataz , Hashim Hassan
Published: August 2022

Modified poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) films with organic groups (amino group from ethylene di-amine (en) and a suitable aromatic aldehyde from benzaldehyde (BEN)) were synthesized by casting using tetrahydrofuran (THF) solvent. The films were doped with four metal oxides nanoparticles (NPs), namely: CuO, Cr2O3, TiO2, and Co2O3, to improve the anti-photodegradation property. The films were irradiated with ultraviolet light and the resulting damage was assessed using different analytical and morphological techniques. These techniques included FTIR, 1H-NMR, and 13C-NMR spectroscopies that were used to examine the chemical structure, while another set of devices, namely optical microscope, scanning electronic microscopy (SEM), and atomic force microscope (AFM) were used to examine the morphology. In order to confirm that modified PVC acts as PVC photostabilizers, the roughness factor (Rq) was measured for the irradiated PVC films. The average Rq for irradiated blank PVC, modified PVC, modified PVC/CuO NPs, modified PVC/TiO2 NPs, modified PVC/Co2O3 NPs, and modified PVC/Cr2O3 NPs films were 368.3, 76.1, 62.6, 53.2, 45.8, and 33.8, respectively. Infrared spectroscopy and weight loss determination indicated that the films incorporated with additives showed less damage and fewer surface changes compared to the blank film. All mentioned additives acted as UV screeners against the UV light. The modified PVC/Cr2O3 NPs film showed the highest ability to resist the photo-degradation process based on the results data of FTIR spectra, weight loss, and surface morphology. In addition, after 300 h of irradiation, the weight percentage of modified PVC/Cr2O3 NPs film was 0.911 in contrast to the blank PVC, 2.896. Among the tested films, modified PVC/Cr2O3 NPs film showed the best results.
Effect of Solidification Variables on the Tensile Property of 2.8 wt% C–26 wt% Cr White Iron
Authors: Jang Deuk-Won , Shin Jong-Ho , Kim In-Soo , Jung In-Yong , Jo Chang-Yong , Lee Je-Hyun
Published: August 2022

The present study aimed to investigate the increasing solidification rate during directional solidification developed from in situ composites of M7C3/austenite eutectic, to in situ composites with a small portion of dendrites, and to partial in situ composites with equiaxed structures. M7C3 fibre aligned along the solidified direction in the in situ composites; however, its orientation and shape became irregular among the dendrites. In situ composite structure has higher tensile strength than partial in situ composite or equiaxed material. Crack initiation in the fibre occurred because the fibre could not accommodate the deformation of the matrix under tensile stress. The tensile fracture was caused by both crack initiations in the M7C3 fibre or at the randomly oriented particles, and the crack propagation to matrix.
The Magnetocaloric Behaviors of Gd-based Microwire Arrays with Different Curie Temperatures
Authors: Shen Hongxian , Luo Lin , Belliveau Hillary , Jiang Sida , Liu Jingshun , Zhang Lunyong , Huang Yongjiang , Sun Jianfei , Phan Manh-Huong
Published: August 2022

The desirable table-like magnetocaloric effect (MCE) was obtained by designing a new magnetic bed, which comprises three kinds of Gd-based microwire arrays with different Curie temperatures (TC). The TC interval among these wires is ~10 K. This new magnetic bed shows a smooth ferromagnetic to paramagnetic transition at ~100 K. In addition, a table-like magnetic entropy change (ΔSM) was obtained, ranging from ~92 K to ~107 K, with a maximum entropy change (−ΔSMmax) of 9.42 J/kgK for a field change (μ0ΔH) of 5 T. Notably, the calculated results of −ΔSM(T) corresponded to the experimental data for μ0ΔH = 5 T, suggesting that a microwire array-based magnetic bed with desirable magnetocaloric response can be designed. In addition, it was shown that a larger table-like temperature range and cooling efficiency can be achieved by increasing the interval of TC among microwire arrays. These important findings indicate that the newly designed magnetic bed is very promising for active magnetic cooling technology.
Fabrication and Investigation of Abrasive Wear Behavior of AZ31-WC-Graphite Hybrid Nanocomposites
Authors: Banerjee Sudip , Sahoo Prasanta
Published: August 2022

In current investigation, effects of incorporation of varying amount of graphite nanoparticles on abrasive wear behavior of AZ31-WC nanocomposites are examined. AZ31-WC-Gr hybrid nanocomposites are developed using ultrasonic vibration associated stir casting technique. Developed hybrid nanocomposites are characterized using optical microscope (OM) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Compositions of hybrid nanocomposites are investigated by energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). Characterization results disclose that reinforcement particles are uniformly distributed in AZ31 matrix. Compositional analysis confirms fortification of reinforcements. Microhardness values of developed hybrid nanocomposites are examined through microhardness tests. Abrasive wear behavior of AZ31 alloy and AZ31-WC-Graphite nanocomposites are investigated for varying sliding distance and varying abrasive grit size in a pin-on-disc tribotester. Abrasive wear tests disclose that incorporation of only 1 wt. % of graphite nanoparticles enhances wear resistance significantly. AZ31-2WC-1Graphite nanocomposite is found to be the most wear resistant material for all experimental conditions. Worn surfaces are scrutinized under SEM and EDS to reveal worn morphology. Investigation of worn surfaces discloses that abrasion and oxidation are main wear mechanism for AZ31-2WC-1Graphite nanocomposite tested at 50 mm track diameter and 800 grit.
Fabrication Techniques and the Formation Mechanism of Nanoparticles and Nanoclusters in Metal Materials
Authors: Qin Junwei , Chen Xiaohua , Wang Yanlin , Zhu Yuzhi , Pan Shiwei , Zhou Wei , Chen Mingwen , Wang Zidong
Published: August 2022

Continuous innovation in the design of metallic materials is essential for further progress in aerospace, automotive, construction, and shipping. Fine grain strengthening is considered to increase the strength of metals without losing plasticity. However, many fabrication techniques are restricted to very small sizes. Recently, the introduction of in situ nanoparticles with coherent or semi-coherent interfaces in the metallic matrix achieves simultaneous enhancement of the strength and ductility of metallic materials. In this review, the focus is on fabrication techniques and the formation mechanism of nanoparticles and nanoclusters in metal materials. The effects of nanoparticles on grain refinement, inhibiting segregation, second phase, and inclusion refinement are discussed, and the mechanism of simultaneous improvement in the strength and ductility of nanostructured metal materials is briefly covered. Finally, we provide a summary and outline of the possible direction for further advances in this research field.
Temperature Dependence of Fracture Behavior and Mechanical Properties of AISI 316 Austenitic Stainless Steel
Authors: Lv Xinliang , Chen Shenghu , Wang Qiyu , Jiang Haichang , Rong Lijian
Published: August 2022

A combination of fractographic and metallographic analysis during tensile tests over the temperature ranging from 20 °C to 750 °C were carried out to investigate the fracture behaviors and deformation modes so as to clarify the temperature dependence of mechanical properties of AISI 316 austenitic stainless steel. Planar slip mode of deformation was observed during tensile tests at 20 °C due to a relatively low SFE (stacking fault energies). Pronounced planar slip characteristics were observed in the range of 350–550 °C, and the resultant localized deformation led to the formation of shear bands. The dislocation cross-slip was much easier above 550 °C, leading to the formation of cell/subgrain structures. The preferential microvoid initiation and subsequent anisotropic growth behavior in the shear bands led to large-size and shallow dimples on the fracture surfaces in the range of 350–550 °C. However, the microvoid tended to elongate along the tensile direction in the localized necking region above 550 °C, resulting in small-size and deep dimples. The shear localization reduced the uniform deformation ability and accelerated the fracture process along shear bands, leading to a plateau in uniform elongation and total elongation in the range of 350–550 °C. The higher capability to tolerate the localized deformation through sustained necking resulted in a significant increase in the total elongation above 550 °C.
Effects of Corner Constraint on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Aluminum Alloy Using the CMT+P Deposition Process
Authors: Su Jie , Yang Yue , Bi Yuanbo , Zhang Yixuan , Bi Jing , Luo Zhen
Published: August 2022

Wire arc additive manufacturing technology with cold metal transfer and pulse welding (CMT+P) is a promising technology for fabricating complex metal structures. In this paper, a lot of basic research was conducted on the corner-constrained and unconstrained zones of 4043 aluminum alloy made using CMT+P. In particular, the microstructure morphology and mechanical properties of the corner-constrained and unconstrained zones of 4043 aluminum alloy made by CMT+P were studied by using a thermal field emission scanning electron microscope, a microhardness tester, etc. The results showed that there were cellular crystals at the top, columnar dendritic crystals in the middle and bottom, and smaller equiaxed crystals in the bottom center. The grain size in the corner-constrained zone was larger than that in the unconstrained zone, and the grain size increased by about 88.34%. Moreover, the microhardness of the unconstrained zone was 50 HV, while the microhardness of the corner-constrained zone was 45 HV. Furthermore, the tensile strength of this material was 148 MPa, the elongation was 31%, the fracture behavior in the middle and top areas was typical of a ductile fracture, and the fracture in the bottom area was a mixed ductile–brittle fracture dominated by the ductile fracture.
Urinary Untargeted Metabolic Profile Differentiates Children with Autism from Their Unaffected Siblings
Authors: Timperio Anna Maria , Gevi Federica , Cucinotta Francesca , Ricciardello Arianna , Turriziani Laura , Scattoni Maria Luisa , Persico Antonio M.
Published: August 2022

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) encompasses a clinical spectrum of neurodevelopmental conditions that display significant heterogeneity in etiology, symptomatology, and severity. We previously compared 30 young children with idiopathic ASD and 30 unrelated typically-developing controls, detecting an imbalance in several compounds belonging mainly to the metabolism of purines, tryptophan and other amino acids, as well as compounds derived from the intestinal flora, and reduced levels of vitamins B6, B12 and folic acid. The present study describes significant urinary metabolomic differences within 14 pairs, including one child with idiopathic ASD and his/her typically-developing sibling, tightly matched by sex and age to minimize confounding factors, allowing a more reliable identification of the metabolic fingerprint related to ASD. By using a highly sensitive, accurate and unbiased approach, suitable for ensuring broad metabolite detection coverage on human urine, and by applying multivariate statistical analysis, we largely replicate our previous results, demonstrating a significant perturbation of the purine and tryptophan pathways, and further highlight abnormalities in the “phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan” pathway, essentially involving increased phenylalanine and decreased tyrosine levels, as well as enhanced concentrations of bacterial degradation products, including phenylpyruvic acid, phenylacetic acid and 4-ethylphenyl-sulfate. The outcome of these within-family contrasts consolidates and extends our previous results obtained from unrelated individuals, adding further evidence that these metabolic imbalances may be linked to ASD rather than to environmental differences between cases and controls. It further underscores the excess of some gut microbiota-derived compounds in ASD, which could have diagnostic value in a network model differentiating the metabolome of autistic and unaffected siblings. Finally, it points toward the existence of a “metabolic autism spectrum” distributed as an endophenotype, with unaffected siblings possibly displaying a metabolic profile intermediate between their autistic siblings and unrelated typically-developing controls.
When Is the Right Moment to Pick Blueberries? Variation in Agronomic and Chemical Properties of Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum) Cultivars at Different Harvest Times
Authors: Cvetković Miljan , Kočić Milana , Dabić Zagorac Dragana , Ćirić Ivanka , Natić Maja , Hajder Đurađ , Životić Aleksandar , Fotirić Akšić Milica
Published: August 2022

Blueberries, which are recognized by their colored fruits and exquisite flavor and taste, are a great source of bioactive substances with potential functional properties. For the purpose of this study, the blueberry cultivars ‘Duke’, ‘Chandler’ and ‘Bluecrop’ were picked at four different times. The aim of the study was to compare the cultivars and determine the best time for picking fruits for table consumption and to produce berries that can be used as functional foods with elevated levels of bioactive compounds. According to principal component analysis (PCA), the most influential traits for distinguishing different times of harvest in the ‘Duke’ cultivar were sorbitol, glucose, sucrose, and turanose; for the cultivar ‘Chandler’, they were caffeic acid, aesculetin, and quercetin; for the ‘Bluecrop’, they were fructose, maltose, radical scavenging activity, and quercetin. Blueberry fruits aimed for table consumption were those harvested in the first two pickings of the cultivar ‘Duke’, in the first and third of the ‘Bluecrop’, and in the third picking time of the cultivar ‘Chandler’, due to the highest fruit size and very high level of sugar (mostly glucose and fructose). ‘Duke’ berries from the second and third harvest (high level of total phenolic content, radical scavenging activity, total anthocyanins, aesculin, quercetin, and isorhamnetin), ‘Chandler’ from the first and third (the highest p-hydroxybenzoic acid, aesculetin, caffeic acid, phloridzin, kaempferol, kaempferol 3-O-glucoside, quercetin 3-O-rhamnoside, rutin, and quercetin) and ‘Bluecrop’ from the third harvest (highest level of total phenolics, radical scavenging activity, quercetin, rutin, quercetin 3-O-glucoside, kaempferol, quercetin 3-O-rhamnoside, kaempferol 3-O-glucoside, and isorhamnetin) had the highest levels of health-promoting compounds.
Effects of the Storage Conditions on the Stability of Natural and Synthetic Cannabis in Biological Matrices for Forensic Toxicology Analysis: An Update from the Literature
Authors: Djilali Elias , Pappalardo Lucia , Posadino Anna Maria , Giordo Roberta , Pintus Gianfranco
Published: August 2022

The use and abuse of cannabis, be it for medicinal or recreational purposes, is widely spread among the population. Consequently, a market for more potent and consequently more toxic synthetic cannabinoids has flourished, and with it, the need for accurate testing of these substances in intoxicated people. In this regard, one of the critical factors in forensic toxicology is the stability of these drugs in different biological matrices due to different storage conditions. This review aims to present the most updated and relevant literature of studies performed on the effects of different storage conditions on the stability of cannabis compounds present in various biological matrices, such as blood and plasma, urine, and oral fluids, as well as in alternative matrices, such as breath, bile fluid, hair, sweat, cerumen, and dried blood spots.
In-Needle Pre-Column Derivatization for Amino Acid Quantification (iPDAQ) Using HPLC
Authors: Soma Yuki , Izumi Yoshihiro , Shimohira Takehiko , Takahashi Masatomo , Imado Yuri , Tominaga Saki , Tokito Kanako , Hata Kosuke , Shinadama Shoji , Oshiro Mana , Hayakawa Yoshihiro , Bamba Takeshi
Published: August 2022

Pre-column fluorescent derivatization has been used for the fast quantification of amino acids using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) systems. However, it generally requires an offline in-vial derivatization process with multiple derivatization reagents. The offline derivatization requires the same number of reaction vials as the number of sample vials for use as a reaction chamber for the derivatization reaction in an autosampler. Therefore, the number of samples analyzed per batch using the pre-column derivatization method is halved. To benefit from the pre-column derivatization method, we transformed the derivatization process from an offline chamber process to an online in-needle process (in-needle Pre-column Derivatization for Amino acids Quantification; iPDAQ). Fluorescent derivatization in the injection needle obviated the need for vacant vials as reaction chambers. Consequently, the throughput per batch improved up to two times, and the consumption of derivatization reagents was reduced to less than one-tenth of that in the conventional vial method. We demonstrated to separate and quantify the amino acids in various biological samples. Herein, we presented a novel HPLC-based amino acid quantification method that enables the continuous analysis of a large number of samples. The iPDAQ facilitates accurate amino acid quantification due to the automation of derivatization and achieves improvement in the throughput and reduction of analysis labor.
LIMIT: LIfestyle and Microbiome InTeraction Early Adiposity Rebound in Children, a Study Protocol
Authors: De Giuseppe Rachele , Loperfido Federica , Cerbo Rosa Maria , Monti Maria Cristina , Civardi Elisa , Garofoli Francesca , Angelini Micol , Maccarini Beatrice , Sommella Eduardo , Campiglia Pietro , Bertuzzo Laura , Chieppa Marcello , Ghirardello Stefano , Cena Hellas
Published: August 2022

Childhood obesity is a strong predictor of adult obesity with health and economic consequences for individuals and society. Adiposity rebound (AR) is a rise in the Body Mass Index occurring between 3 and 7 years. Early adiposity rebound (EAR) occurs at a median age of 2 years and predisposes to a later onset of obesity. Since obesity has been associated with intestinal dysbiosis, we hypothesize that EAR could be related to early microbiome changes due to maternal/lifestyle changes and environmental exposures, which can increase the unhealthy consequences of childhood obesity. LIMIT is a prospective cohort study that aims at identifying the longitudinal interplay between infant gut microbiome, infant/maternal lifestyle, and environmental variables, in children with EAR vs. AR. Methods. The study evaluated 272 mother-infant pairs, enrolled at an Italian neonatal unit, at different time points (T0, at delivery; T1, 1 month; T2, 6 months; T3, 12 months; T4, 24 months; T5, 36 months after birth). The variables that were collected include maternal/infant anthropometric measurements, lifestyle habits, maternal environmental endocrine disruptor exposure, as well as infant AR. The LIMIT results will provide the basis for early identification of those maternal and infant modifiable factors on which to act for an effective and personalized prevention of childhood obesity.
Prediction Model for Liquid-Assisted Femtosecond Laser Micro Milling of Quartz without Taper
Authors: Yuan Hongbing , Chen Zhihao , Wu Peichao , Deng Yimin , Cao Xiaowen , Zhang Wenwu
Published: August 2022

The strong nonlinear absorption effect and “cold” processing characteristics of femtosecond lasers make them uniquely advantageous and promising for the micro- and nanoprocessing of hard and brittle materials, such as quartz. Traditional methods for studying the effects of femtosecond laser parameters on the quality of the processed structure mainly use univariate analysis methods, which require large mounts of experiments to predict and achieve the desired experimental results. The method of design of experiments (DOE) provides a way to predict desirable experimental results through smaller experimental scales, shorter experimental periods and lower experimental costs. In this study, a DOE program was designed to investigate the effects of a serious of parameters (laser repetition frequency, pulse energy, scan speed, scan distance, scan mode, scan times and laser focus position) on the depth and roughness (Ra) of the fabricated structure through the liquid-assisted femtosecond laser processing of quartz. A prediction model between the response variables and the main parameters was defined and validated. Finally, several blind holes with a size of 50 × 50 μm2 and a depth of 200 μm were fabricated by the prediction model, which demonstrated the good consistency of the prediction model.
Recent Advances in the Application of Piezoelectric Materials in Microrobotic Systems
Authors: Fath Alireza , Xia Tian , Li Wei
Published: August 2022

Recent advances in precision manufacturing technology and a thorough understanding of the properties of piezoelectric materials have made it possible for researchers to develop innovative microrobotic systems, which draw more attention to the challenges of utilizing microrobots in areas that are inaccessible to ordinary robots. This review paper provides an overview of the recent advances in the application of piezoelectric materials in microrobots. The challenges of microrobots in the direction of autonomy are categorized into four sections: mechanisms, power, sensing, and control. In each section, innovative research ideas are presented to inspire researchers in their prospective microrobot designs according to specific applications. Novel mechanisms for the mobility of piezoelectric microrobots are reviewed and described. Additionally, as the piezoelectric micro-actuators require high-voltage electronics and onboard power supplies, we review ways of energy harvesting technology and lightweight micro-sensing mechanisms that contain piezoelectric devices to provide feedback, facilitating the use of control strategies to achieve the autonomous untethered movement of microrobots.
Microencapsulation of Bacillus velezensis Using Alginate-Gum Polymers Enriched with TiO2 and SiO2 Nanoparticles
Authors: Pour Mojde Moradi , Riseh Roohallah Saberi , Ranjbar-Karimi Reza , Hassanisaadi Mohadeseh , Rahdar Abbas , Baino Francesco
Published: August 2022

Bacillus bacteria are a group of plant growth stimulants that increase plant growth and resistance to plant pathogens by producing various metabolites. With their large surface area and small size, nanoparticles can be used in controlled-release formulations and increase the efficiency of the desired product. Encapsulation of biological agents in combination with nanoparticles can be an essential step in increasing the performance of these agents in adverse environmental conditions. In this study, which is the result of a collaboration between scientists from Italy and Iran, Bacillus velezensis was encapsulated in alginate combined with whey protein and zedo, mastic, and tragacanth gums in the presence of silica and titania nanoparticles to obtain two-layer and multilayer assemblies acting as novel, smart micro-encapsulation systems. The results of laboratory studies showed that the B. velezensis could produce protease, lipase, siderophore, auxin, and a dissolution of mineral phosphate. Scanning electron microscopy images (SEM) showed that the studied microcapsules were almost spherical. Moisture affinity, swelling, and efficiency of each microcapsule were examined. The results showed that the highest encapsulation efficiency (94.3%) was related to the multilayer formulation of alginate-whey protein-zedo. XRD and FTIR spectroscopy showed that the alginate, whey protein, and zedo were mixed properly and no incompatible composition occurred in the reaction. This study aimed to provide a suitable formulation of biofertilizers based on biodegradable compounds as an alternative to chemical fertilizers, which is low cost and very effective without harming humans and the environment.
Assessment of Quality and Safety Criteria of Raw Milk Samples from Different Dairy Farms
Authors: Visciano Pierina , Schirone Maria
Published: August 2022

Ten dairy farms supplying raw milk to the dairy industry were investigated to determine compliance with the safety criteria (plate count at 30 °C and somatic cell count) of Regulation (EC) 853/2004. The relationship of such criteria with lipid and protein percentages was also evaluated. The results demonstrated a great variability due to the different management systems of each dairy farm, with regard to the milking hygiene, the health status of the animals, and the prevention measures against mastitis. Moreover, in some dairy farms, the somatic cell counts were positively correlated with the quality components of raw milk as well as the plate count at 30 °C.
Modulating Microbiota as a New Strategy for Breast Cancer Prevention and Treatment
Authors: Wu Huixin , Ganguly Sebanti , Tollefsbol Trygve O.
Published: August 2022

Breast cancer (BC) is the most common cancer in women in the United States. There has been an increasing incidence and decreasing mortality rate of BC cases over the past several decades. Many risk factors are associated with BC, such as diet, aging, personal and family history, obesity, and some environmental factors. Recent studies have shown that healthy individuals and BC patients have different microbiota composition, indicating that microbiome is a new risk factor for BC. Gut and breast microbiota alterations are associated with BC prognosis. This review will evaluate altered microbiota populations in gut, breast tissue, and milk of BC patients, as well as mechanisms of interactions between microbiota modulation and BC. Probiotics and prebiotics are commercially available dietary supplements to alleviate side-effects of cancer therapies. They also shape the population of human gut microbiome. This review evaluates novel means of modulating microbiota by nutritional treatment with probiotics and prebiotics as emerging and promising strategies for prevention and treatment of BC. The mechanistic role of probiotic and prebiotics partially depend on alterations in estrogen metabolism, systematic immune regulation, and epigenetics regulation.
Metamorphic Evolution of the Archean Supracrustal Rocks from the Qingyuan Area of the Northern Liaoning Terrane, North China Craton: Constrained Using Phase Equilibrium Modeling and Monazite Dating
Authors: Liu Ting , Li Zhuang , Wei Chunjing
Published: August 2022

Archean supracrustal rocks from the Qingyuan area of the northern Liaoning terrane, the North China Craton, occur as enclaves or rafts of various scales within tonalite–trondhjemite–granodiorite (TTG) domes. They were normally subjected to metamorphism at amphibolite facies with locally granulite facies. We collected biotite two-feldspar gneiss from the Hongtoushan of the Qingyuan area and conducted petrography, mineral chemistry, phase equilibrium modeling and monazite dating to reveal its metamorphic evolution. The peak condition was constrained to be 750–775 °C at ~7 kbar based on the stability of the inferred peak mineral assemblage and mineral compositions including the pyrite and grossular contents in the garnet core, and XMg in biotite. The final condition was constrained to be ~700 °C at ~6 kbar on the solidus based on the presence of muscovite in the final assemblage. The post-peak near-isobaric cooling process was consistent with the core→rim decreasing pyrite content in garnet. Monazite dating yielded a metamorphic age of ~2.50 Ga for the sample, coeval with the final magmatism of TTGs in the terrane. By combining other geological features, we suggest a vertical sagduction process to be responsible for the metamorphic evolution of the Qingyuan area. This process may be correlated with Archean mantle plume.
Petrogenesis, Sources, and Tectonic Settings of Triassic Volcanic Rocks in the Ela Mountain Area of the East Kunlun Orogen: Insights from Geochronology, Geochemistry and Hf Isotopic Compositions
Authors: Pan Zhongcui , Sun Fengyue , Cong Zhichao
Published: August 2022

The Ela Mountain area is located at the easternmost point of the East Kunlun Orogen, in which voluminous igneous rocks developed in the Triassic period, and it is a good place to investigate the tectonic evolution of the Paleo-Tethys Ocean. In this study, petrological, geochemical, zircon U-Pb geochronology and zircon Hf isotope studies were carried out on the volcanic rocks in the Ela Mountain area. Dacite (239.3 ± 1.4 Ma) exhibits calc-alkaline I-type characteristics, and rhyolite (237.8 ± 2.1 Ma) is similar to high-K calc-alkaline highly fractionated I-type volcanic rock. The petrogenesis shows that both rhyolite and dacite originated from the partial melting of the mafic lower crust of the Mesoproterozoic under relatively high temperature and low pressure. Dacite and rhyolite were derived from the same or similar parent magma, and they are volcanic rocks with different differentiation degrees formed in the same magmatic pulse activity. Differing from rhyolite and dacite, basaltic andesite shows a relatively young age (234 ± 1.2 Ma), mainly originating from the partial melting of the lithospheric mantle modified by subducted slab-derived fluids; the magma was contaminated with a small amount of crustal source components and experienced the fractional crystallization of mafic minerals before the eruption to the surface. This study on the tectonic environment of these volcanic rocks shows that they were formed in the environment of slab failure in the late stage of syn-collision, and that they are different types of volcanic rocks from different sources under similar tectonic environments. The volcanic rocks of the Ela Mountain area in this contribution provide important evidence for Middle Triassic to Late Triassic syn-collisional magmatism in the slab failure stages. The results of this study constrain the lower age limit of the closure of the Paleo-Tethys Ocean and the initial time of extension of the late stage of syn-collision, providing important information regarding regional tectonic evolution processes and volcanic activity history. They can be applied to regional tectonic evolution, petrology, volcanic stratigraphy and mineral deposits related to volcanic rocks.
Magnetotelluric Noise Attenuation Using a Deep Residual Shrinkage Network
Authors: Zuo Gang , Ren Zhengyong , Xiao Xiao , Tang Jingtian , Zhang Liang , Li Guang
Published: August 2022

Magnetotelluric (MT) surveying is an essential geophysical method for mapping subsurface electrical conductivity structures. The MT signal is susceptible to cultural noise, and the intensity of noise is growing with urbanization. Cultural noise is increasingly difficult to be removed by conventional data processing methods. We propose a novel time-series editing method based on the deep residual shrinkage network (DRSN) to address this issue. Firstly, the MT data are divided into small segments to form a dataset system. Secondly, we use the dataset system to train the denoising model. Finally, the trained model is used for MT data denoising. The experiments using synthetic data and actual field data collected in Qinghai and Luzong, China, show that the DRSN can effectively remove the cultural noise and has better adaptability and efficiency than traditional MT signal processing methods.
Distribution and Speciation of Rare Earth Elements in Coal Fly Ash from the Qianxi Power Plant, Guizhou Province, Southwest China
Authors: Wu Lun , Ma Liqiang , Huang Gen , Li Jihui , Xu Hongxiang
Published: August 2022

Coal fly ash (CFA), hazardous to the environment and human health, has been considered to be a potential alternative source for rare earth elements (REEs) in recent years. However, information on how REEs distribute and occur in coal fly ash is still incomplete. In this work, particle size analysis, inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry, scanning electron microscopy, and electron probe microanalysis were applied to study the occurrence and distribution of REEs in a fly ash sample from the Qianxi coal-fired power plant in Guizhou province. The results show that the REEs content in the CFA was 630.51 ppm. Wet grinding-enhanced leaching experiments revealed that a part of the rare earth particles was encapsulated within the glass body. These rare earth particles could be liberated and released to a certain extent by wet grinding, which would increase the acid-leaching recovery of REEs from 23.49% to 41.68%. This study classifies the speciation of REEs in coal fly ash as (1) amorphous glassy particles with REE minerals or compounds encapsulated inside; (2) amorphous glassy particles with REEs distributed throughout; and (3) discrete REE minerals or compounds. The results of this study are a basis for developing an economically viable and environmentally sustainable technology for recovering REEs from CFA.
Environmental and Work Factors That Drive Fatigue of Individual Haul Truck Drivers
Authors: Talebi Elaheh , Rogers W. Pratt , Drews Frank A.
Published: August 2022

Many factors influence the fatigue state of human beings, and fatigue has a significant adverse effect on the health and safety of the haulage operators in the mine. Among various fatigue monitoring systems in mine operations, currently, the Percentage of Eye Closure (PERCLOS) is common. However, work and other environmental factors influence the fatigue state of haul truck drivers; PERCLOS systems do not consider these factors in their modeling of fatigue. Therefore, modeling work and environmental factors’ impact on individual operations fatigue state could yield interesting insights into managing fatigue. This study provides an approach of using operational data sets to find the leading indicators of the operators’ fatigue. A machine learning algorithm is used to model the fatigue of the individual. eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) algorithm is chosen for this model because of its efficiency, accuracy, and feasibility, which integrates multiple tree models and has stronger interpretability. A significant number of negative and positive samples are created from the available data to increase the number of datasets. Then, the results are compared with other existing models. A selected algorithm, along with a big data set was able to create a comprehensive model. The model was able to find the importance of the individual factors along with work and environmental factors among operational data sets.
Dissipation, Processing Factors and Dietary Risk Assessment for Flupyradifurone Residues in Ginseng
Authors: Fang Nan , Zhang Changpeng , Lu Zhongbin , Lu Zhou , Zhang Zhongbei , Wang Bo , Hou Zhiguang , Zhao Xueping
Published: August 2022

The massive use of pesticides has brought great risks to food and environmental safety. It is necessary to develop reliable analytical methods and evaluate risks through monitoring studies. Here, a method was used for the simultaneous determination of flupyradifurone (FPF) and its two metabolites in fresh ginseng, dried ginseng, ginseng plants, and soil. The method exhibited good accuracy (recoveries of 72.8–97.5%) and precision (relative standard deviations of 1.1–8.5%). The field experiments demonstrated that FPF had half-lives of 4.5–7.9 d and 10.0–16.9 d in ginseng plants and soil, respectively. The concentrations of total terminal residues in soil, ginseng plants, dried ginseng, and ginseng were less than 0.516, 2.623, 2.363, and 0.641 mg/kg, respectively. Based on these results, the soil environmental risk assessment shows that the environmental risk of FPF to soil organisms is acceptable. The processing factors for FPF residues in ginseng were 3.82–4.59, indicating that the concentration of residues increased in ginseng after drying. A dietary risk assessment showed that the risk of FPF residues from long-term and short-term dietary exposures to global consumers were 0.1–0.4% and 12.07–13.16%, respectively, indicating that the application of FPF to ginseng at the recommended dose does not pose a significant risk to consumers.
Cassia alata, Coriandrum sativum, Curcuma longa and Azadirachta indica: Food Ingredients as Complementary and Alternative Therapies for Atopic Dermatitis-A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Chew Yik-Ling , Khor Mei-Ann , Xu Zhao , Lee Sue-Kei , Keng Jing-Wen , Sang Sze-Huey , Akowuah Gabriel Akyirem , Goh Khang Wen , Liew Kai Bin , Ming Long Chiau
Published: August 2022

Traditional medicine is critical in disease treatment and management. Herbs are gaining popularity for disease management and treatment. Therefore, they can be utilised as complementary and alternative treatment (CAT) ingredients. Atopic dermatitis (AD) is one of the common non-communicable diseases. It is characterised by chronic inflammatory skin disease with intense pruritus and eczematous lesions. AD is associated with oxidative stress, microbial infection, and upregulation of inflammatory cytokines. Both children and adults could be affected by this skin disorder. The prevalence of AD is increasing along with the country’s level of development. This review revisited the literature on four medicinal herbs widely used as complementary medicine to manage AD. These therapeutic herbs are commonly eaten as food and used as spices in Asian cuisine. The four food herbs reviewed are Cassia alata, Coriandrum sativum, Curcuma longa Linn, and Azadirachta indica. Their traditional uses and phytochemical content will be covered. Four relevant pharmacological and biological activities of the plants crucial in AD management have been reviewed and discussed, including anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, antioxidant, and wound recovery.
Improvement of Peptidyl Copper Complexes Mimicking Catalase: A Subtle Balance between Thermodynamic Stability and Resistance towards H2O2 Degradation
Authors: Ben Hadj Hammouda Yaqine , Coulibaly Koudedja , Bathily Alimatou , Teoh Sook Han Magdalene , Policar Clotilde , Delsuc Nicolas
Published: August 2022

Catalase mimics are low molecular weight metal complexes that reproduce the activity of catalase, an antioxidant metalloprotein that participates in the cellular regulation of H2O2 concentration by catalyzing its dismutation. H2O2 is a reactive oxygen species that is vital for the normal functioning of cells. However, its overproduction contributes to oxidative stress, which damages cells. Owing to their biocompatibility, peptidyl complexes are an attractive option for clinical applications to regulate H2O2 by enzyme mimics. We report here the synthesis and characterization of four new peptidyl di-copper complexes bearing two coordinating sequences. Characterization of the complexes showed that, depending on the linker used between the two coordinating sequences, their catalytic activity for H2O2 dismutation, their thermodynamic stability and their resistance to H2O2 degradation are very different, with (CATm2)Cu2 being the most promising catalyst.