bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bacterial Metabolic Potential in Response to Climate Warming Alters the Decomposition Process of Aquatic Plant Litter—In Shallow Lake Mesocosms
Authors: Shi Penglan , Wang Huan , Feng Mingjun , Cheng Haowu , Yang Qian , Yan Yifeng , Xu Jun , Zhang Min
Published: July 2022

Increased decomposition rates in shallow lakes with global warming might increase the release of atmospheric greenhouse gases, thereby producing positive feedback for global warming. However, how climate warming affects litter decomposition is still unclear in lake ecosystems. Here, we tested the effects of constant and variable warming on the bacterial metabolic potential of typically submerged macrophyte (Potamogeton crispus L.) litters during decomposition in 18 mesocosms (2500 L each). The results showed that warming reduced main chemoheterotrophic metabolic potential but promoted methylotrophy metabolism, which means that further warming may alter methane-cycling microbial metabolism. The nitrate reduction function was inhibited under warming treatments, and nitrogen fixation capability significantly increased under variable warming in summer. The changes in dissolved oxygen (DO), pH, conductivity and ammonium nitrogen driven by warming are the main environmental factors affecting the bacteria’s metabolic potential. The effects of warming and environmental factors on fermentation, nitrate reduction and ammonification capabilities in stem and leaf litter were different, and the bacterial potential in the stem litter were more strongly responsive to environmental factors. These findings suggest that warming may considerably alter bacterial metabolic potential in macrophyte litter, contributing to long-term positive feedback between the C and N cycle and climate.
Gut Microbiota Manipulation in Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Authors: Mazzawi Tarek
Published: July 2022

Increased knowledge suggests that disturbed gut microbiota, termed dysbiosis, might promote the development of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms. Accordingly, gut microbiota manipulation has evolved in the last decade as a novel treatment strategy in order to improve IBS symptoms. In using different approaches, dietary management stands first in line, including dietary fiber supplements, prebiotics, and probiotics that are shown to change the composition of gut microbiota, fecal short-chain fatty acids and enteroendocrine cells densities and improve IBS symptoms. However, the exact mixture of beneficial bacteria for each individual remains to be identified. Prescribing nonabsorbable antibiotics still needs confirmation, although using rifaximin has been approved for diarrhea-predominant IBS. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has recently gained a lot of attention, and five out of seven placebo-controlled trials investigating FMT in IBS obtain promising results regarding symptom reduction and gut microbiota manipulation. However, more data, including larger cohorts and studying long-term effects, are needed before FMT can be regarded as a treatment for IBS in clinical practice.
Zebrafish—An Optimal Model in Experimental Oncology
Authors: Kwiatkowska Iwona , Hermanowicz Justyna Magdalena , Iwinska Zaneta , Kowalczuk Krystyna , Iwanowska Jolanta , Pawlak Dariusz
Published: July 2022

A thorough understanding of cancer pathogenesis is a necessary step in the development of more effective and safer therapy. However, due to the complexity of the process and intricate interactions, studying tumor development is an extremely difficult and challenging task. In bringing this issue closer, different scientific models with various advancement levels are helpful. Cell cultures is a system that is too simple and does not allow for multidirectional research. On the other hand, rodent models, although commonly used, are burdened with several limitations. For this reason, new model organisms that will allow for the studying of carcinogenesis stages and factors reliably involved in them are urgently sought after. Danio rerio, an inconspicuous fish endowed with unique features, is gaining in importance in the world of scientific research. Including it in oncological research brings solutions to many challenges afflicting modern medicine. This article aims to illustrate the usefulness of Danio rerio as a model organism which turns out to be a powerful and unique tool for studying the stages of carcinogenesis and solving the hitherto incomprehensible processes that lead to the development of the disease.
A Highly Water-Soluble and Solid State Emissive 1,8-Naphthalimide as a Fluorescent PET Probe for Determination of pHs, Acid/Base Vapors, and Water Content in Organic Solvents
Authors: Georgiev Nikolai I. , Krasteva Paoleta V. , Bakov Ventsislav V. , Bojinov Vladimir B.
Published: July 2022

A new highly water-soluble 1,8-naphthalimide fluorophore designed on the “fluorophore-spacer-receptor1-receptor2” model has been synthesized. Due to the unusually high solubility in water, the novel compound proved to be a selective PET-based probe for the determination of pHs in aqueous solutions and rapid detection of water content in organic solvents. Based on the pH dependence of the probe and its high water solubility, the INH logic gate was achieved using NaOH and water as chemical inputs, where NaOH is the disabler and the water is an enabler. In addition, the probe showed effective fluorescence “off-on” reversibility on glass support after exposure to acid and base vapors, which defines it as a promising platform for rapid detection of acid/base vapors in the solid-state, thus extending the molecular sensing concept from solution to the solid support.
Cluster-Assembled Nanoporous Super-Hydrophilic Smart Surfaces for On-Target Capturing and Processing of Biological Samples for Multi-Dimensional MALDI-MS
Authors: Barborini Emanuele , Bertolini Giacomo , Epifanio Monica , Yavorskyy Alexander , Vinati Simone , Baumann Marc
Published: July 2022

Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS) on cluster-assembled super-hydrophilic nanoporous titania films deposited on hydrophobic conductive-polymer substrates feature a unique combination of surface properties that significantly improve the possibilities of capturing and processing biological samples before and during the MALDI-MS analysis without changing the selected sample target (multi-dimensional MALDI-MS). In contrast to pure hydrophobic surfaces, such films promote a remarkable biologically active film porosity at the nanoscale due to the soft assembling of ultrafine atomic clusters. This unique combination of nanoscale porosity and super-hydrophilicity provides room for effective sample capturing, while the hydrophilic-hydrophobic discontinuity at the border of the dot-patterned film acts as a wettability-driven containment for sample/reagent droplets. In the present work, we evaluate the performance of such advanced surface engineered reactive containments for their benefit in protein sample processing and characterization. We shortly discuss the advantages resulting from the introduction of the described chips in the MALDI-MS workflow in the healthcare/clinical context and in MALDI-MS bioimaging (MALDI-MSI).
QTOF-ESI MS Characterization and Antioxidant Activity of Physalis peruviana L. (Cape Gooseberry) Husks and Fruits from Costa Rica
Authors: Navarro-Hoyos Mirtha , Arnáez-Serrano Elizabeth , Quirós-Fallas María Isabel , Vargas-Huertas Felipe , Wilhelm-Romero Krissia , Vásquez-Castro Felipe , Alvarado-Corella Diego , Sánchez-Kopper Andrés
Published: July 2022

There is increasing interest in research of secondary metabolites from Physalis peruviana (Cape gooseberry) because of their potential bioactivities. In this study, the profile of compounds found in fruits and husks from Costa Rica was determined through ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry using a quadrupole time-of-flight analyzer (UPLC-ESI-QTOF MS) on extracts (n = 10) obtained through pressurized liquid extraction (PLE) conditions. In total, 66 different compounds were identified, comprising 34 withanolides, 23 sucrose ester derivatives and 9 flavonoids. UPLC-DAD analysis was performed to determine the β-carotene in fruits and to quantify the flavonoids in all 10 samples, with the results showing higher contents in samples from the Dota region (58.6–60.1 μg/g of dry material versus 1.6–2.8 mg/g of dry material). The Folin–Ciocalteau total polyphenolic content (FC) and antioxidant activity using the DPPH method showed better results for the husk extracts, with the ones from the Dota region holding the best values (4.3–5.1 mg GAE/g of dry material versus IC50 = 1.6–2.3 mg of dry material/mL). In addition, a significant negative correlation was found between the RU, FC and DPPH values (r = −0.902, p < 0.05), aligning with previous reports on the role of polyphenols in antioxidant activity. Principal correlation analysis (PCoA) and hierarchical clustering (HC) analysis were performed on HRMS results, and they indicated that the D1 and D2 fruit samples from the Dota region were clustered with husks related to a higher presence of the analyzed metabolites. In turn, principal component analysis (PCA) performed on the flavonoid content and antioxidant activity yielded results indicating that the D1 and D2 husks and fruit samples from the Dota region stood out significantly, showing the highest antioxidant activity. In summation, our findings suggest that P. peruviana husks and fruits from Costa Rica constitute a substrate of interest for further studies on their potential health benefits.
One-Pot Synthesis of Cellulose/MXene/PVA Foam for Efficient Methylene Blue Removal
Authors: Zhao Weisong , Chi Hong , Zhang Shiyun , Zhang Xue , Li Tianduo
Published: July 2022

Ti3C2Tx MXene has attracted considerable interest as a new emerging two-dimensional material for environmental remediation due to its high adsorption capacity. However, its use is greatly limited by its poor mechanical properties, low processability and recyclability, and the low dispersity of such powder materials. In this work, a porous adsorbent (C–CMP) containing cellulose nanocrystals (CNC), Ti3C2Tx MXene and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) was prepared by a simple and environmentally-friendly foaming method. Glutaraldehyde was used as crosslinker to improve the mechanical properties and boost the adsorption efficiency of methylene blue (MB) molecules. Fourier transform infrared (FT–IR), elemental analysis (EDX) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) further confirmed that the preparation of the C–CMP foam and cross-linking reaction were successful. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) indicated that the macropores were distributed homogeneously. The adsorption experiment showed that maximum adsorption capacity of MB can reach 239.92 mg·g−1 which was much higher than anionic dye (methyl orange, 45.25 mg·g−1). The adsorption behavior fitted well with the Langmuir isotherm and pseudo-second-order kinetic models. Thermodynamic analysis indicated that the adsorption process was spontaneous and endothermic. Based on FT–IR, EDX and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis, the adsorption mechanism between C–CMP and MB molecules was attributed to electrostatic interaction.
Aptamer-Functionalized Iron-Based Metal–Organic Frameworks (MOFs) for Synergistic Cascade Cancer Chemotherapy and Chemodynamic Therapy
Authors: Wang Xuan , Chen Qing , Lu Congxiao
Published: July 2022

Hypoxia-activated prodrugs (HAPs) with selective toxicity in tumor hypoxic microenvironments are a new strategy for tumor treatment with fewer side effects. Nonetheless, the deficiency of tumor tissue enrichment and tumor hypoxia greatly affect the therapeutic effect of HAPs. Herein, we design an active targeted drug delivery system driven by AS1411 aptamer to improve the tumor tissue enrichment of HAPs. The drug delivery system, called TPZ@Apt-MOF (TA-MOF), uses iron-based MOF as a carrier, surface-modified nucleolin aptamer AS1411, and the internal loaded hypoxia activation prodrug TPZ. Compared with naked MOF, the AS1411-modified MOF showed a better tumor targeting effect both in vitro and in vivo. MOF is driven by GSH to degrade within the tumor, producing Fe2+, and releasing the cargo. This process leads to a high consumption of the tumor protective agent GSH. Then, the Fenton reaction mediated by Fe2+ not only consumes the intracellular oxygen but also increases the intracellular production of highly toxic superoxide anions. This enhances the toxicity and therapeutic effect of TPZ. This study provides a new therapeutic strategy for cancer treatment.
Impedance Measures for Detecting Electrical Responses during Acute Injury and Exposure of Compounds to Roots of Plants
Authors: Cooper Robin Lewis , Thomas Matthew A. , McLetchie David Nicholas
Published: July 2022

Electrical activity is widely used for assessing a plant’s response to an injury or environmental stimulus. Commonly, a differential electrode recording between silver wire leads with the reference wire connected to the soil, or a part of the plant, is used. One method uses KCl-filled glass electrodes placed into the plant, similar to recording membrane/cell potentials in animal tissues. This method is more susceptible to artifacts of equipment noise and photoelectric effects than an impedance measure. An impedance measure using stainless steel wires is not as susceptible to electrically induced noises. Impedance measurements are able to detect injury in plants as well as exposure of the roots to environmental compounds (glutamate). The impedance measures were performed in 5 different plants (tomato, eggplant, pepper, liverwort, and Coleus scutellarioides), and responses to mechanical movement of the plant, as well as injury, were recorded. Monitoring electrical activity in a plant that arises in a distant plant was also demonstrated using the impedance method. The purpose of this report is to illustrate the ease in using impedance measures for monitoring electrical signals from individual plants or aggregates of plants for potentially scaling for high throughput and monitoring controlled culturing and outdoor field environments.
Coupled-Channel Analysis of the Process γγ→π0π0
Authors: Surovtsev Yury S. , Bydžovský Petr , Gutsche Thomas , Kamiński Robert , Lyubovitskij Valery E. , Nagy Miroslav
Published: July 2022

We study the process γγ→π0π0 involving the principal mechanisms, the structure of its cross section and the role of individual isoscalar-tensor resonances in the saturation of its energy spectrum.
Comparison of Bacterial Risk in Cryo AHF and Pathogen Reduced Cryoprecipitated Fibrinogen Complex
Authors: Lu Thea , Nahata Pallavi , Johnson Aja , Keltner Nadia , Peters Lindsay , McCormack Melissa , Muñoz Bianca , Krath Mary , Weiner Elan , Bringmann Peter
Published: July 2022

Until November 2020, cryoprecipitated antihaemophilic factor (cryo AHF) was the only United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved fibrinogen source to treat acquired bleeding. The post-thaw shelf life of cryo AHF is limited, in part, by infectious disease risk. Concerns over product wastage demand that cryo AHF is thawed as needed, with thawing times delaying the treatment of coagulopathic patients. In November 2020, the FDA approved Pathogen Reduced Cryoprecipitated Fibrinogen Complex for the treatment and control of bleeding, including massive hemorrhage, associated with fibrinogen deficiency. Pathogen Reduced Cryoprecipitated Fibrinogen Complex (also known as INTERCEPT® Fibrinogen Complex, IFC) has a five-day post-thaw room-temperature shelf life. Unlike cryo AHF, manufacturing of IFC includes broad spectrum pathogen reduction (Amotosalen + UVA), enabling this extended post-thaw shelf life. In this study, we investigated the risk of bacterial contamination persisting through the cryoprecipitation manufacturing process of cryo AHF and IFC. Experiments were performed which included spiking plasma with bacteria prior to cryoprecipitation, and bacterial survival was analyzed at each step of the manufacturing process. The results show that while bacteria survive cryo AHF manufacturing, IFC remains sterile through to the end of shelf life and beyond. IFC, with a five-day post-thaw shelf life, allows the product to be sustainably thawed in advance, facilitating immediate access to concentrated fibrinogen and other key clotting factors for the treatment of bleeding patients.
An Ethics of Needs: Deconstructing Neoliberal Biopolitics and Care Ethics with Derrida and Spivak
Authors: Vaittinen Tiina
Published: July 2022

The body in need of care is the subaltern of the neoliberal epistemic order: it is that which cannot be heard, and that which is muted, partially so even in care ethics. In order to read the writing by which the needy body writes the world, a new ethics must be articulated. Building on Jacques Derrida’s philosophy of deconstruction, Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak’s notions of subalternity and epistemic violence, critical disability scholarship, and corporeal care theories, in this article I develop an ethics of needs. This is an ethical position that seeks to read the world that care needs write with the relations they enact. The ethics of needs deconstructs the world with a focus on those care needs that are presently responded to with neglect, indifference, or even violence: the absence of care. Specifically, the ethics of needs opens a space—a spacing, an aporia—for a more ethical politics of life than neoliberal biopolitics can ever provide, namely, the politics of life of needs.
A Review of a Decade of Local Projects, Studies and Initiatives of Atypical Influxes of Pelagic Sargassum on Mexican Caribbean Coasts
Authors: Rosellón-Druker Judith , Calixto-Pérez Edith , Escobar-Briones Elva , González-Cano Jaime , Masiá-Nebot Luis , Córdova-Tapia Fernando
Published: July 2022

This study collates and reviews the state of the art in the phenomenon of atypical pelagic Sargassum influxes in the coastline of the Mexican Caribbean, focusing on projects, studies and initiatives that have been conducted in the country for a decade. We integrated multisectoral and multidisciplinary knowledge and identified gaps and strengths in current knowledge. Initiatives and projects conducted in Mexico are numerous, diverse and valuable. However, interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary research and interinstitutional coordinated actions in the medium- and long-term are still lacking. Because of this, there is an imbalance of actions in different knowledge areas that prevents this phenomenon from being addressed in a comprehensive way. Furthermore, the funding opportunities for Sargassum research projects and other initiatives seem to respond to the events of massive influxes, without continuity or long-term planning. Attention is mainly focused on urban and touristic areas, so impacts to rural or uninhabited zones are unknown. This review represents a stepping-stone towards an integrated multisectoral effort to shift the perspective from Sargassum being a “national problem” to a “national resource,” considering and fully understanding the ecological importance of this macroalgae as a floating ecosystem and its potential as an economic resource once it massively arrives in Mexican coastal areas.
The Effects of Conservation Tillage on Chemical and Microbial Soil Parameters at Four Sites across Europe
Authors: Engell Ilka , Linsler Deborah , Sandor Mignon , Joergensen Rainer Georg , Meinen Catharina , Potthoff Martin
Published: July 2022

Conservation tillage is often discussed as an effective tool to improve the soil quality in agriculture. Four sites across Europe (in Germany, Romania, Spain, and Sweden) were investigated as case studies for country-specific reductions in tillage intensity. Conventional tillage (CT) by mouldboard ploughing was compared with shallow and deep non-inversion minimum tillage (MT) and/or no-tillage (NT). In Sweden, NT and MT had positive effects on the concentrations of soil organic carbon (SOC), total nitrogen (N), and microbial biomass carbon (MBC) in the upper 20 cm compared with CT. At the German site, MT increased SOC, N, and MBC concentrations in the top 10 cm. In contrast, CT increased MBC contents and bulk density between 20 and 30 cm soil depth. At the Romanian site, soil parameters showed no differences between inverse tillage (CT) and non-inverse tillage (MT), both with a working depth of 25 to 30 cm. At the Spanish site, the use of NT significantly increased the concentrations as well as the stocks of C, N, and MBC compared to CT. In conclusion, reduced tillage improved soil microbial properties in most cases. However, the effectiveness of reduced tillage appears to be highly dependent on site conditions such as pH, soil texture, and climatic conditions.
Effects of Plastic Film Mulching on Soil Enzyme Activities and Stoichiometry in Dryland Agroecosystems
Authors: Liu Meixia , Zhao Xueqing , Hossain Md Elias , Wang Shangwen , Dong Wenyi , Gopalakrishnan Subramaniam , Liu Enke
Published: July 2022

Soil extracellular enzymes are pivotal for microbial nutrient cycling in the ecosystem. In order to study the effects of different nitrogen application rates under plastic film mulching on soil extracellular enzyme activities and stoichiometry, five nitrogen application levels (i.e., 0, 90, 150, 225 and 300 kg·hm−2) were set based on two treatments: plastic film mulching (PM) and no film mulching (LD). We measured the soil extracellular enzyme activities (EEAs) and stoichiometry (EES) of four enzymes (i.e., β-1,4-glucosidase (βG), leucine aminopeptidase (LAP), β-1,4-N-acetylaminoglucosidase (NAG) and alkaline phosphatase (AP)) involved in the C, N and P cycles of soil microorganisms in surface soil at five maize growth stages (seedling stage, jointing stage, trumpet stage, grout stage and harvest stage). The results showed that there were significant differences in soil EEA at different maize growth stages. The soil nutrient content and soil EEA were significantly improved under PM, and the stoichiometric ratio of extracellular enzymes (EC:N:P) was closer to 1:1:1, which indicated that PM was beneficial to the balance of soil nutrients and the activity of microorganisms. At each stage, with the increase in nitrogen application levels, the soil EEA showed a trend of increasing first and then decreasing (or remained unchanged), and both LD and PM treatments reached their highest activity at the 225 kg·hm−2 nitrogen application rate. When the nitrogen application level was less than 225 kg·hm−2, the soil enzyme activity was mainly limited by the N nutrient, and when the nitrogen application level reached 300 kg·hm−2, it was mainly limited by the P nutrient. RDA and correlation analysis showed that the soil C:P, C:N, N:P and pH had significant effects on soil βG, NAG + LAP and AP activities as well as EC:N, EC:P and EN:P.
Optimisation of the Green Process of Industrial Hemp—Preparation and Its Extract Characterisation
Authors: Žitek Taja , Kotnik Petra , Makoter Teo , Postružnik Vesna , Knez Željko , Knez Marevci Maša
Published: July 2022

Natural medicines and products are becoming increasingly important in the pharmaceutical and food industries. The most important step in obtaining a natural remedy is the processing of the natural material. This study offers the separation of the industrial hemp plant into fractions by mechanical treatment, which has a significant impact on the selectivity of the obtained fractions. This study also offers a solution to reduce waste by fractionating industrial hemp, focusing on the fraction with the highest cannabinoid content (49.5% of CBD). The study confirmed the anticancer potential of the extract, which prevents further division of WM-266-4 melanoma cells at a concentration of 10−3 mg/mL. However, application of the extract (c = 10−3 mg/mL) to normal human epidermal melanocytes proved to be insignificant, as the metabolic activity of the cells was the same as in the control cell group.
100 Years of Chromosome Research in Rye, Secale L.
Authors: Schlegel Rolf
Published: July 2022

Although microscopy and genetics were still in their infancy, there are cytological results produced a hundred years ago that are still relevant today. Since the 1920s, rye has been a subject of chromosome research. It started by plotting its mitotic and meiotic chromosomes to determine genome size. After controversial evidence, it became clear that the base number is n = 7. However, structural differences exist between species within the genus Secale. Some rye populations even carry accessory chromosomes evolutionary derived from the A genome. The development of tetraploid strains significantly promoted chromosome analysis. Various techniques have tried to stabilize the disturbed chromosome pairing of the induced tetraploids. Although slight improvements could be achieved, they did not lead to a breakthrough. However, the various aneuploid derivatives of the polyploids found major advances in the genetic analysis of rye. Trisomics, telo-trisomics, and reciprocal translocation have served as important tools for gene mapping. Since the 1970s, various chromosome banding techniques have stimulated scientific progress. The seven haploid chromosomes could be diagnosed unequivocally, not only in S. cereale but also in related species. These findings led to a clear homoeologous assignment to the genomes of related grass species such as wheat, barley, rice, etc. Current applications of in situ fluorescence staining methods, such as GISH and FISH, allow even more precise results, depending on the specificity of the DNA samples. Advanced preparation techniques are supplemented by the variety of innovations in the field of molecular genome analysis. They replace complex cytological examinations. In this way, introgressions can be safely detected by DNA markers and be much more detailed. In addition, CRISPR/CAS-mediated chromosome engineering will become an important method of the future.
Evaluation of Agricultural Traits, Phytochemical Contents, and Antioxidant Activities in the Leaves of Amaranth Accessions of Nine Species
Authors: Li Weilan , Yoo Eunae , Lee SooKyeong , Noh Hyung Jun , Hwang So Jeong , Desta Kebede Taye , Lee Gi-An
Published: July 2022

Amaranthus species are widely cultivated as dietary crops and are promising sources of phytochemical compounds with antioxidant properties. To explore Amaranthus as a potential medical resource, 289 accessions (nine species) were cultivated, and their agricultural characteristics, total phenolic content (TPC), rutin contents, and antioxidant activities [2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS)] were studied. Wide variations in agricultural traits, phytochemical contents, and antioxidant activities were observed between the accessions and across species. The effects of agricultural traits were evaluated, and the results indicated that yellow-flowered amaranth genotypes could be important because of their high values of TPC, rutin contents, DPPH, and ABTS. In addition, leaf length, days until 50% flowering, days until 50% heading and days until maturity, showed positive correlations with TPC, rutin contents, DPPH, and ABTS. The whole dataset was subjected to principal component analysis, and distinctive aggregation was observed across the Amaranthus species. In total, 289 accessions were clustered into three groups, and seven genotypes were determined as being good medical resources due to their high phytochemical content and antioxidant activities. Our findings provide important information for the development of new varieties with high phytochemical contents and high levels of antioxidant activity.
Ionic Liquid-Cured Epoxy/PCL Blends with Improved Toughness and Adhesive Properties
Authors: Orduna Lidia , Razquin Iker , Otaegi Itziar , Aranburu Nora , Guerrica-Echevarría Gonzalo
Published: July 2022

In this work, ionic liquid (IL)-cured epoxy resins were modified by adding poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL). Three different ILs were used in order to study how (a) the chemical structure of the ILs and (b) the PCL content affect the phase behaviour, microstructure, mechanical and adhesive properties. Regardless of the IL used or the PCL content, the obtained materials showed a single phase. The addition of PCL to the epoxy resin resulted in plasticizing of the network blends, lower glass transition temperatures (Tg), and crosslinking densities (νe). Low PCL contents did not have a significant impact on the mechanical properties. However, the adhesive properties improved significantly at low PCL contents. Higher PCL contents led to a significant increase in toughness, especially in the case of the imidazolium-based IL. The balance achieved between the mechanical and adhesive properties of these IL-cured epoxy/PCL blends constitutes an important step towards sustainability. This is because a biodegradable polymer (PCL) was used to substitute part of the epoxy resin, and the ILs—which are non-volatile and cure effectively at much lower contents—were used instead of conventional curing agents. Given the wide use of this kind of materials in the adhesive industry, the practical significance of these results must be emphasised.
Comparison of Mechanical Properties of a Self-Adhesive Composite Cement and a Heated Composite Material
Authors: Skapska Anastazja , Komorek Zenon , Cierech Mariusz , Mierzwinska-Nastalska Elzbieta
Published: July 2022

(1) Background: Due to the limitations of composite cements, the authors carried out tests to compare such materials with preheated composite materials because the latter may be an alternative to cements in the adhesive cementation procedure. (2) Methods: The materials used in the adhesive cementation procedure, i.e., Enamel Plus Hri (Micerium, Avegno, Italy), a heated composite material, and RelyX U200 Automix (3M, Maplewood, MN, USA), a dual composite cement, were tested for microhardness, compressive strength, flexural strength, diametral compressive strength, and elastic modulus. Composite material was heated to the temperature of 50 degrees Celsius before polymerisation. (3) Results: Higher values of microhardness (by 67.36%), compressive strength (by 41.84%), elastic modulus (by 17.75%), flexural strength (by 36.03%), and diametral compressive strength (by 45.52%) were obtained using the Enamel Plus Hri composite material compared to the RelyX U200 self-adhesive cement. The survey results revealed statistically significant differences. (4) Conclusions: Due to its better mechanical properties, the heated composite material (Enamel Plus Hri) is a beneficial alternative to composite cements in the indirect restoration placement procedure. As the strength parameters of the heated composite material increase, a higher resistance to the compressive and bending forces present in the oral cavity, and hence a greater durability of the created prosthetic reconstructions can be expected.
Environmental and Economic Comparison of Natural and Recycled Aggregates Using LCA
Authors: Dias Adriana , Nezami Salem , Silvestre José , Kurda Rawaz , Silva Rui , Martins Isabel , de Brito Jorge
Published: July 2022

Recycled aggregates (RAs) have been playing an important role in replacing natural aggregates (NAs) in concrete production, thereby contributing to a reduction in the extraction of natural resources and the promotion of a circular economy. However, it is important to assess the global impacts of this replacement, in both environmental and economic terms. In this study, an overview of the impacts of the production of natural and recycled aggregates is presented, using the life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology. Through this methodology, products with the same function are compared and information about the best solutions is given, considering their environmental and economic impacts. Studies with data collected from specific producers were compared, as well as environmental product declarations (EPDs) and generic databases, regarding the production of natural and recycled, coarse and fine, and rolled and crushed aggregates. This study intends therefore to provide the environmental and economic impact comparison at the global level through LCA from different data sources. According to this literature review, the best and worst environmental results are assigned to lower and higher transport distances, respectively. Regarding EPDs, the lowest environmental impacts are related to recycled coarse aggregates and the highest to natural coarse crushed aggregates. In terms of generic databases, the results are similar, with the lowest impacts associated with natural fine rolled aggregates and the highest to natural coarse crushed aggregates. In what concerns the economic impacts, in general, recycled aggregates are associated with the lowest costs. However, these results are highly dependent on transport distances and costs.
Analysis of the Spatial and Temporal Evolution of Land Subsidence in Wuhan, China from 2017 to 2021
Authors: Zhao Yizhan , Zhou Lv , Wang Cheng , Li Jiahao , Qin Jie , Sheng Haiquan , Huang Liangke , Li Xin
Published: July 2022

Land subsidence is a common geological hazard. Rapid urban expansion has led to different degrees of ground subsidence within Wuhan in the past few years. The novel coronavirus outbreak in 2020 has seriously impacted urban construction and people’s lives in Wuhan. Land subsidence in Wuhan has changed greatly with the resumption of work and production. We used 80 Sentinel-1A Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) images covering Wuhan to obtain the land subsidence change information of Wuhan from July 2017 to September 2021 by using the small baseline subset interferometric SAR technique. Results show that the subsidence in Wuhan is uneven and concentrated in a few areas, and the maximum subsidence rate reached 57 mm/yr during the study period. Compared with land deformation before 2017, the land subsidence in Wuhan is more obvious after 2020. The most severe area of subsidence is located near Qingling in Hongshan District, with a maximum accumulated subsidence of 90 mm, and obvious subsidence funnels are observed in Qiaokou, Jiangan, Wuchang and Qingshan Districts. The location of subsidence centers in Wuhan is associated with building intensity, and most of the subsidence funnels are formed in connection with urban subway construction and building construction. Carbonate belt and soft ground cover areas are more likely to lead to karst collapse and land subsidence phenomena. Seasonal changes are observed in the land subsidence in Wuhan. A large amount of rainfall can replenish groundwater resources and reduce the rate of land subsidence. The change in water level in the Yangtze River has a certain impact on the land subsidence along the rivers in Wuhan, but the overall impact is small. An obvious uplift is observed in Caidian District in the south of Wuhan, and the reason may be related to the physical and chemical expansion effects of the expansive clay.
2D&3DHNet for 3D Object Classification in LiDAR Point Cloud
Authors: Song Wei , Li Dechao , Sun Su , Zhang Lingfeng , Xin Yu , Sung Yunsick , Choi Ryong
Published: July 2022

Accurate semantic analysis of LiDAR point clouds enables the interaction between intelligent vehicles and the real environment. This paper proposes a hybrid 2D and 3D Hough Net by combining 3D global Hough features and 2D local Hough features with a classification deep learning network. Firstly, the 3D object point clouds are mapped into the 3D Hough space to extract the global Hough features. The generated global Hough features are input into the 3D convolutional neural network for training global features. Furthermore, a multi-scale critical point sampling method is designed to extract critical points in the 2D views projected from the point clouds to reduce the computation of redundant points. To extract local features, a grid-based dynamic nearest neighbors algorithm is designed by searching the neighbors of the critical points. Finally, the two networks are connected to the full connection layer, which is input into fully connected layers for object classification.
Morphology and Dust-Suppression Evaluation of Fugitive Dust Particles in Beijing
Authors: Yang Tao , He Lijuan , Wang Hailin , Gao Chengjie , Yang Hongling
Published: July 2022

Fugitive dust particles are important contributors to urban ambient particulate matter (PM), while their emissions have been ignored or greatly underestimated in previous studies, leading to the underestimation of PM concentrations and health impacts. Thus, studying the morphology of fugitive dust, taking appropriate dust-suppression measures, and evaluating dust-suppression effects are crucial to the prevention and control of fugitive dust. In this study, we investigated the morphology and composition of dust particles from different dust sources, including bare land, stock dump, construction, and road dust. Afterwards, different dust-suppression measures including fence interception nets, bare ground mesh nets, and road dust-suppressants were undertaken to simulate and analyze their dust-suppression effects. Finally, the height concentration profiling method was used to comprehensively evaluate the on-site dust-suppression effect, which can not only accurately evaluate the dust-suppression effect, but also predict the dust-suppression ability in a wide range. Gaining insights into the morphology and composition of dust from representative sources is an important step forward to prevent and control fugitive dust, and selecting an appropriate dust-suppression effect evaluation method will provide a beneficial guide for effectively controlling PM pollution in the future.
Recent Research of NiCo2O4/Carbon Composites for Supercapacitors
Authors: Xu Junming , Shi Yang , Cheng Jipeng , Wang Xinchang
Published: July 2022

Supercapacitors have played an important role in electrochemical energy storage. Recently, researchers have found many effective methods to improve electrode materials with more robust performances through the increasing volume of scientific publications in this field. Though nickel cobaltite (NiCo2O4), as a promising electrode material, has substantially demonstrated potential properties for supercapacitors, its composites usually show much better performances than the pristine NiCo2O4. The combination of carbon-based materials and NiCo2O4 has been implemented recently due to the dual mechanisms for energy storage and the unique advantages of carbon materials. In this paper, we review the recent research on the hybrids of NiCo2O4 and carbon nanomaterials for supercapacitors. Typically, we focused on the reports related to the composites containing graphene (or reduced graphene oxide), carbon nanotubes, and amorphous carbon, as well as the major synthesis routes and electrochemical performances. Finally, the prospect for the future work is also discussed.
Spillover Network among Economic Sentiment and Economic Policy Uncertainty in Europe
Authors: Arreola Hernandez Jose , Kang Sang Hoon , Jiang Zhuhua , Yoon Seong-Min
Published: July 2022

We explore the directional spillover network among economic sentiment indicators and the economic policy uncertainty (EPU) index from Europe. We derive our results by fitting the directional spillover index approach to the monthly frequency data of eleven European countries, economic sentiment indicators and the European EPU index, spanning from 1 January 1987, to 1 February 2019. The empirical results indicate that the economic sentiment indicators of the largest European economies (Germany, France, and Italy) spillover with each other the most. The economic sentiment indicators of Germany and France most strongly influence the EU and Euro area economic sentiment indicators. The economic sentiment indicators of France and Italy have the most influence on the European EPU index, while the latter has the strongest influence on the economic sentiment indicators of Germany and France.
Simulation of Single Vapor Bubble Condensation with Sharp Interface Mass Transfer Model
Authors: Samkhaniani Nima , Stroh Alexander
Published: July 2022

Pure numerical simulation of phase-change phenomena such as boiling and condensation is challenging, as there is no universal model to calculate the transferred mass in all configurations. Among the existing models, the sharp interface model (Fourier model) seems to be a promising solution. In this study, we investigate the limitation of this model via a comparison of the numerical results with the analytical solution and experimental data. Our study confirms the great importance of the initial thermal boundary layer prescription for a simulation of single bubble condensation. Additionally, we derive a semi-analytical correlation based on energy conservation to estimate the condensing bubble lifetime. This correlation declares that the initial diameter, subcooled temperature, and vapor thermophysical properties determine how long a bubble lasts. The simulations are carried out within the OpenFOAM framework using the VoF method to capture the interface between phases. Our investigation demonstrates that calculation of the curvature of interface with the Contour-Based Reconstruction (CBR) method can suppress the parasitic current up to one order.
Forskolin Induces Endocrine Disturbance in Human JEG-3 Placental Cells
Authors: Rat Patrice , Leproux Pascale , Fouyet Sophie , Olivier Elodie
Published: July 2022

Forskolin, used in folk medicine since ancient times, is now available as a dietary supplement, with an indication as a fat burner and appetite suppressant. However, the safety of forskolin is poorly documented especially for pregnant women. The question that we raised is what about the safety of forskolin in pregnant women? As the placenta, an endocrine organ, is the key organ of pregnancy, we evaluated the in vitro placental toxicity of forskolin. We focused first on the activation of a P2X7 degenerative receptor as a key biomarker for placental toxicity, and second on steroid and peptide hormonal secretion. We observed that forskolin activated P2X7 receptors and disturbed estradiol, progesterone, hPL and hyperglycosylated hCG secretion in human placental JEG-Tox cells. To the best of our knowledge, we highlighted, for the first time, that forskolin induced endocrine disturbance in placental cells. Forskolin does not appear to be a safe product for pregnant women and restrictions should be taken.
SARS-CoV-2 Neutralizing Antibodies in Chile after a Vaccination Campaign with Five Different Schemes
Authors: Aguilera Ximena , Hormazábal Juan , Vial Cecilia , Cortes Lina Jimena , González Claudia , Rubilar Paola , Apablaza Mauricio , Ramírez-Santana Muriel , Icaza Gloria , Nuñez-Franz Loreto , Castillo-Laborde Carla , Ramírez-Riffo Carolina , Pérez Claudia , Quezada-Gate Rubén , Said Macarena , Vial Pablo
Published: July 2022

Using levels of neutralizing antibodies (nAbs), we evaluate the successful Chilean SARS-CoV-2 vaccine campaign, which combines different vaccine technologies and heterologous boosters. From a population-based study performed in November 2021, we randomly selected 120 seropositive individuals, organized into six groups of positive samples (20 subjects each) according to natural infection history and the five most frequent vaccination schemes. We conclude that the booster dose, regardless of vaccine technology or natural infection, and mRNA vaccines significantly improve nAbs response.
COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy: The Perils of Peddling Science by Social Media and the Lay Press
Authors: Thorakkattil Shabeer Ali , Abdulsalim Suhaj , Karattuthodi Mohammed Salim , Unnikrishnan Mazhuvanchery Kesavan , Rashid Muhammed , Thunga Girish
Published: July 2022

Introduction: Vaccines are the best tools to end the pandemic, and their public acceptance is crucial in achieving herd immunity. Despite global efforts to increase access to vaccination, the World Health Organization explicitly lists vaccination hesitancy (VH) as a significant threat. Despite robust safety reports from regulatory authorities and public health advisories, a substantial proportion of the community remains obsessed with the hazards of vaccination. This calls for identifying and eliminating possible causative elements, among which this study investigates the inappropriate dissemination of medical literature concerning COVID-19 and adverse events following immunization (AEFI), its influence on promoting VH, and proposals for overcoming this problem in the future. Methods: We searched PubMed, Embase, and Scopus databases, using the keywords “adverse events following immunization (AEFI)”, “COVID-19”, “vaccines” and “hesitancy” and related medical and subjective headings (MeSH) up to 31 March 2022, and extracted studies relevant to the COVID-19 AEFI and associated VH. Finally, 47 articles were chosen to generate a narrative synthesis. Results: The databases depicted a steep rise in publications on COVID-19 AEFI and COVID-19 VH from January 2021 onwards. The articles depicted multiple events of mild AEFIs without fatal events in recipients. While documenting AEFIs is praiseworthy, publishing such reports without prior expert surveillance can exaggerate public apprehension and inappropriately fuel VH. VH is a deep-rooted phenomenon, but it is difficult to zero in on the exact reason for it. Spreading rumors/misinformation on COVID-19 vaccines might be an important provocation for VH, which includes indiscriminately reporting AEFI on a massive scale. While a number of reported AEFIs fall within the acceptable limits in the course of extensive COVID-19 vaccinations, it is important to critically evaluate and moderate the reporting and dissemination of AEFI in order to allay panic. Conclusions: Vaccination programs are necessary to end any pandemic, and VH may be attributed to multiple reasons. VH may be assuaged by initiating educational programs on the importance of vaccination, raising public awareness and monitoring the inappropriate dissemination of misleading information. Government-initiated strategies can potentially restrict random AEFI reports from lay epidemiologists and healthcare practitioners.
The Use of Alpelisib in Metastatic Estrogen-Receptor-Positive HER2/Neu-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors:   District Oncologic Dispensary, Irkutsk, Yukalchuk D.Yu. , Ponomarenko D.M. , Yukalchuk T.N. , Sidorova S.S. , Shevchuk A.V. , Novopashin A.M.
Published: July 2022

The clinical case presented in the article demonstrates the effectiveness of orange in combination with fulvestrant in metastatic estrogen receptor-positive HER2/neu-negative breast cancer with a mutation in the PIK3CA gene. The resistance of hormone therapy requires the search for new therapeutic options. The results of the SOLAR-1 and BYLieve studies have shown not only the effectiveness of alpelisib, but also new types of toxicity characteristic of this therapy. At the moment, recommendations have been developed for the prevention and treatment of the most frequent adverse events, allowing the drug to be used as safely as possible. With the introduction of alpelisib, the possibilities of non-chemotherapeutic treatment options for prognostically unfavorable patients have not only expanded, but there has also been a trend towards the use of personalized medicine and targeted therapy.
Treatment of Follicular Lymphoma
Authors:   V.F. Voyno-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Zukov R.A. , Batukhtina Yu.V. , Khorzhevsky V.A. ,   A.I. Kryzhanovsky Krasnoyarsk Regional Clinical Oncology Dispensary,   Siberian Scientific and Clinical Center of the FMBA of Russia
Published: July 2022

The article presents a clinical case of treatment of indolent non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (follicular lymphoma) stage IV at a young age with a relapsing course of the disease with a partial response and no tumor transformation. The prospects for the treatment of follicular lymphoma at the moment are very interesting and quite encouraging.