bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Iterated Population-Based Metaheuristic for Order Acceptance and Scheduling in Unrelated Parallel Machines with Several Practical Constraints
Authors: Chen Chun-Lung
Published: March 2023

This study considers order acceptance and scheduling problems in unrelated parallel machines with several practical constraints, including order release times, sequence-dependent setup times, machines’ unequal ready times, and preventive maintenance. In a make-to-order production environment, issues with order acceptance and scheduling are mainly caused by the limited production capacity of a factory, which makes it impossible to accept all orders. Consequently, some orders must be rejected in order to maximize profits and the accepted orders must be completed by the due date or no later than the deadline. An iterated population-based metaheuristic is proposed to solve the problems. The algorithm begins with an efficient initial solution generator to generate an initial solution, and then uses the destruction and construction procedure to generate a population with multiple solutions. Then, a solution is selected from the population, and a variable neighborhood descent search algorithm with several new reduced-size neighborhood structures is applied to improve the selected solution. Following the completion of the local search, a method for updating the members of the population was devised to enhance its diversity. Finally, the metaheuristic allows the populations to evolve for several generations until the termination condition is satisfied. To evaluate the performance of the proposed metaheuristic, a heuristic rule and an iterated local search algorithm are examined and compared. The computational experimental results indicate that the presented metaheuristic outperforms the other heuristics.
The Global Property of Generic Conformally Flat Hypersurfaces in R4
Authors: Chen Yayun , Li Tongzhu
Published: March 2023

A conformally flat hypersurface f:M3→R4 in the four-dimensional Euclidean space R4 is said to be generic if the hypersurface has three distinct principal curvatures everywhere. In this paper, we study the generic conformally flat hypersurfaces in R4 using the framework of Möbius geometry. First, we classify locally the generic conformally flat hypersurfaces with a vanishing Möbius form under the Möbius transformation group of R4. Second, we investigate the global behavior of the compact generic conformally flat hypersurfaces and give some integral formulas about the Möbius invariant of these hypersurfaces.
Periodontal Phenotype Modification Using Subepithelial Connective Tissue Graft and Bone Graft in the Mandibular Anterior Teeth with Mucogingival Problems Following Orthodontic Treatment
Authors: Park Won-Bae , Park Wonhee , Lim Seung-Weon , Han Ji-Young
Published: March 2023

Among the complications of orthodontic treatment, mucogingival problems with gingival recession in the mandibular anterior teeth are challenging for clinicians. Mucogingival problems can lead to esthetic deficits, thermal hypersensitivity, tooth brushing pain, and complicated plaque control. Herein, we present a case of a 16-year-old female with gingival recession in the left mandibular central incisor after orthodontic treatment. The preoperative clinical findings showed a thin soft tissue biotype with root prominence in the mandibular anterior area. The interdental area was relatively depressed. After reflection of the full-thickness flap, root coverage using a bone graft substitute and subepithelial connective tissue graft obtained from the palatal mucosa was performed. The 6-month and 5-year postoperative clinical findings showed improved soft tissue phenotype. The cross-sectional CBCT scans 5 years after surgery showed a well-maintained labial bone plate in the mandibular incisors. Within the limitations of this case report, for patients with gingival recession in the mandibular incisors after orthodontic treatment, a successful biotype modification can be achieved with a combined procedure using subepithelial connective tissue graft with bone graft substitutes.
Novel Inorganic Membranes Based on Magnetite-Containing Silica Porous Glasses for Ultrafiltration: Structure and Sorption Properties
Authors: Konon Marina , Brazovskaya Elena Yu. , Kreisberg Valery , Semenova Ekaterina , Polyakova Irina G. , Osipov Armenak , Antropova Tatiana
Published: March 2023

Porous glasses (PGs) obtained from sodium borosilicate (NBS) phase-separated glasses via leaching are promising inorganic membranes. Introducing Fe2O3 into NBS glasses imparts ferrimagnetic properties due to magnetite crystallization. Leaching of such glasses leads to the formation of magnetic PGs with interesting electro-surface characteristics. This work aimed to investigate the process of obtaining magnetite-containing PGs from NBS glasses depending on silica content, using XRPD and Raman spectroscopy, studying the PG membranes’ structural characteristics and their sorption properties with respect to methylene blue (MB). Obtained PGs were characterized by a polymodal distribution of mesopores and a small number of micropores with specific surface area values of 32–135 m2/g and an average mesopore diameter of 5–41 nm. The kinetic data were analyzed using pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order, and intra-particle diffusion equations. The equilibrium isotherms were fitted with Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin, and Dubinin-Radushkevich models. MB adsorption was found to be a complex process. The glass with the highest specific surface area demonstrated the maximum sorption capacity (10.5 mg/g). The pore size of PGs allowed them to be considered potential novel magnetic membranes for ultrafiltration.
The Effect of Heating Temperature on α-α′ Miscibility and Separation in Fe-25Cr-5Al-RE Alloy
Authors: Li Taotao , Liu Yanlian , Cheng Shengwei , Liu Chengzhi
Published: March 2023

In general, FeCrAl alloys are faced with the separation of the high-chromium solid solution into α and α′ phases. For the Fe-25Cr-5Al-RE alloy, it is imperative to investigate the structure and morphology and their effect on the alloy’s mechanical properties. In this paper, XRD is used to reveal the presence of α and α′ phases. Based on XRD data, Rietveld refinement combined with quantitative texture analysis is carried out to determine the lattice constants and the harmonic coefficients. Then, SEM and TEM techniques are employed to provide an insight into the α′ phase and its morphology. The percentage total elongation at fracture is anti-correlated with the lattice of the α′ phase and the generalized harmonic coefficients C41.
Effect of Wear-Corrosion of Reduced Graphene Oxide Functionalized with Hyaluronic Acid on Inflammatory and Proteomic Response of J774A.1 Macrophages
Authors: Sánchez-López Luna , Ropero de Torres Noelia , Chico Belén , Soledad Fagali Natalia , de los Ríos Vivian , Escudero María Lorenza , García-Alonso María Cristina , Lozano Rosa María
Published: March 2023

The presence of a worn surface in the implanted material, as in the case of a replacement of a damaged osteoarticular joint, is the normal condition after implantation. This manuscript focuses precisely on the comparative study of the cellular behavior on worn CoCr surfaces, analyzing the effect of different surface modifications on macrophages’ responses. CoCr surfaces were modified by the deposition of electrochemically reduced graphene oxide (CoCrErGO), followed by additional surface functionalization with hyaluronic acid (CoCrErGOHA). After the wear corrosion processes, the macrophage response was studied. In addition, macrophage supernatants exposed to the surfaces, before and after wear, were also evaluated for osteoblast response through the analysis of the metabolic activity, plasma membrane damage, and phosphatase alkaline activity (ALP). The proteomic analysis and the quantitative TNF-α/IL-10 ratios of the J774A.1 macrophages exposed to the surfaces under study showed a polarization shift from M0 (basal state) to M1, associated with the pro-inflammatory response of all surfaces. A lower M1 polarization was observed upon exposure to the surface modification with ErGO, whereas posterior HA functionalization attenuated, even more, the M1 polarization. The wear corrosion process contributed to inflammation and exacerbated the M1 polarization response on macrophages to CoCr, which was diminished for the ErGO and attenuated the most for the ErGOHA surfaces. Comparative proteomics showed that the pathways related to M1 polarization were downregulated on the surfaces of CoCrErGOHA, which suggests mechanisms for the observed attenuation of M1 polarization. The suitable immuno-modulatory potential induced by the ErGOHA surface, with and without wear, together with the stimulation of ALP activity in osteoblasts induced by macrophage supernatants, promotes the mineralization processes necessary for bone repair. This makes it feasible to consider the adsorption of ErGOHA on CoCr as a recommended surface treatment for the use of biomaterials in osseous joint applications.
Two-Phase Flow Coordination Characteristics of H62 Brass Alloy Prepared by Up-Drawing Continuous Casting
Authors: Li Bing , Fu Qianqian , Yu Rongzhou , Lin Zikai , Wang Jun , Wang Xue , Guan Renguo , Li Jiehua
Published: March 2023

In this study, the two-phase flow coordination characteristics between α and β phases of H62 brass made by up-drawing continuous casting are investigated based on the upsetting process. An in situ and new research method for two-phase flow is put forward, and the two-phase flow and grain refinement characteristics are observed under different deformation conditions. The results show that α phase flows fast under 400 °C, β phase is pulled and overridden by α phase under this temperature. When the temperature increases to 500 °C, which is higher than β phase transition temperature, the flow velocity of β phase increases, and the deformation of β phase is found to bulge. The flow of β phase is more sensitive to low deformation rates than α phase. The deformation amount has a more significant impact on β phase than α phase, and the deformation of β phase promotes the grain fragmentation and refinement of α phase accompanied by huge β phase bulging obviously. Under the conditions of high temperature, low deformation rate, and large deformation amount, both phase α and β of up-drawing continuous casting brass alloy are broken and the grains are refined. Based on the two-phase flow characteristic, numerical simulation is used to obtain the optimal continuous extrusion parameters of the H-shaped wire of up-drawing continuous casting H62 brass. Then, the optimized complex cross-section wire is prepared by continuous extrusion experiment. This research aims to provide guidance for the complex processing of two-phase alloys.
Effect of Particle Size Distribution on the Printing Quality and Tensile Properties of Ti-6Al-4V Alloy Produced by LPBF Process
Authors: Xue Muhan , Chen Xinyue , Ji Xia , Xie Xinliang , Chao Qi , Fan Guohua
Published: March 2023

The efficiency of the fabrication and the cost of feedstock materials are important constraining factors for a wider application of the laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) process in the industry. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate the feasibility of using different particle size distributions (PSD) combined with higher layer thickness for achieving higher building efficiency and cost-effectiveness. This paper focuses on the effect of PSD (0–53, 15–53, 15–75, and 15–105 μm) on the print quality and mechanical properties of the LPBF-processed Ti-6Al-4V at a layer thickness of 60 μm. The results show that volumetric energy density (VED) range, which allows the coarse powder to reach full density, becomes relatively narrower but is still capable of producing fully dense parts when the parameters are properly adjusted. Among the fully dense specimens, the surface roughness varies slightly with the increase of VED and PSD. In the case of proper parameter selection, specimens made of coarse powder can still achieve low surface roughness. Only slight differences in mechanical performance are found for specimens produced using different PSD powders as they have almost identical microstructures. The issue of the anisotropic mechanical properties of the as-built specimens is resolved after annealing treatment at 800 °C for 2 h. This study provides a guideline for producing high-quality Ti-6Al-4V parts using a higher layer thickness and coarser powders.
High-Resolution Taxonomic Characterization Reveals Novel Human Microbial Strains with Potential as Risk Factors and Probiotics for Prediabetes and Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Hendricks Sarah A. , Vella Chantal A. , New Daniel D. , Aunjum Afiya , Antush Maximilian , Geidl Rayme , Andrews Kimberly R. , Balemba Onesmo B.
Published: March 2023

Alterations in the composition of the gut microbiota is thought to play a key role in causing type 2 diabetes, yet is not fully understood, especially at the strain level. Here, we used long-read DNA sequencing technology of 16S-ITS-23S rRNA genes for high-resolution characterization of gut microbiota in the development of type 2 diabetes. Gut microbiota composition was characterized from fecal DNA from 47 participants divided into 4 cohorts based on glycemic control: normal glycemic control (healthy; n = 21), reversed prediabetes (prediabetes/healthy; n = 8), prediabetes (n = 8), or type 2 diabetes (n = 10). A total of 46 taxa were found to be possibly related to progression from healthy state to type 2 diabetes. Bacteroides coprophilus DSM 18228, Bifidobacterium pseudocatenulatum DSM 20438, and Bifidobacterium adolescentis ATCC 15703 could confer resistance to glucose intolerance. On the other hand, Odoribacter laneus YIT 12061 may be pathogenic as it was found to be more abundant in type 2 diabetes participants than other cohorts. This research increases our understanding of the structural modulation of gut microbiota in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes and highlights gut microbiota strains, with the potential for targeted opportunistic pathogen control or consideration for probiotic prophylaxis and treatment.
The “Bald Disease” of the Sea Urchin Paracentrotus lividus: Pathogenicity, Molecular Identification of the Causative Agent and Therapeutic Approach
Authors: Federico Serena , Glaviano Francesca , Esposito Roberta , Tentoni Enea , Santoro Pasquale , Caramiello Davide , Costantini Maria , Zupo Valerio
Published: March 2023

In recent decades, various species of Mediterranean sea urchins, including Paracentrotus lividus, have been subject to widespread seasonal episodes of mass mortality whose causative agents are still unclear. In particular, P. lividus is subject to late winter events of mortality, due to a disease manifested by a massive loss of spines and the presence of greenish amorphous material on the tests (i.e., the sea urchin skeleton consisting of spongeous calcite). Documented mortality events show a seasonal epidemic diffusion and might produce economic losses also in aquaculture facilities, besides the environmental constraints to its diffusion. We collected individuals showing conspicuous lesions on the body surface and reared them in recirculated aquaria. Samples of external mucous were collected along with coelomic liquids and cultured to isolate bacterial and fungal strains, further submitted to molecular identification through the amplification of prokaryotic 16S rDNA. In addition, pools of infected sea urchins were reared in recirculated tanks after short baths in a formulated therapeutic compound and their survival rates were compared to non-treated individuals for variable periods. Here, we aimed at a redescription of the etiopathogenetic nature of the parasites and tested the efficacy of a possible treatment, to be proposed for aquaculture purposes.
Tailings Filtration: Water Jet Spray Cleaning of a Blinded Iron Ore Filter Cloth
Authors: Fränkle Bernd , Stockert Maximilian , Sok Thien , Gleiß Marco , Nirschl Hermann
Published: March 2023

The global growth in demand for raw materials is leading to a continuous increase in the mining of ores and thus to an expanding volume of tailings to be stored. To ensure safer storage and an optimized recovery of process water, the tailings slurry is often thickened followed by filtration in filter presses and dry stacking. However, an increasing blinding effect during the time of operation requires cleaning or replacement of the filter media. Cloth washing using spray nozzles is a possible solution, but there is insufficient quantitative data published on the performance. For this reason, this article examines the cleaning of an iron ore cloth from tailings filtration by continuous water spraying. Water flux, spray time and direction (front- and back-wash) variation were investigated by evaluating cleaning performance using flow resistance measurement and comparison to the unused and industrially used state where blinding has occurred. Sufficient cleaning and achieving the flow rate of the unused cloth is possible. However, excessive spray cleaning should be avoided, as damage to the fibers may occur. Spray cleaning can be stated to be economically reasonable since a water demand of 2.5 m3 m−2 and an energy consumption of 6.5 kWh m−2 is necessary for a sufficient regeneration. Furthermore, the spray cleaning is assumed to cost USD 6 m−2, which is approximately similar to replacing the fabric but reduces plastic waste.
Mineralization Regularities of the Bainiuchang Ag Polymetallic Deposit in Yunnan Province, China
Authors: Jia Fuju , Yang Ceting , Zheng Guolong , Xiang Mingrong , Liu Xuelong , Duan Wei , Dao Junshan , Su Zhihong
Published: March 2023

The Bainiuchang Ag polymetallic deposit is located at the junction between the Cathaysia, Yangtze, China and Indosinian blocks. It has experienced many geological events, and records excellent conditions for multiple mineralization. In this paper, elemental correlation analysis, cluster analysis, factor analysis, a semivariogram of Zn/Pb values, mineralization distribution and trend surface analysis have been carried out based on the prospecting database and ore body model. Our results show that Ag–Pb–Zn were mineralized at moderate temperatures. Tin was mineralized at high temperatures, and Sn and Zn/Pb values are well correlated. The Zn/Pb values can be used for tracing the ore-forming fluid. The semivariogram revealed that the Zn/Pb values are moderately spatially dependent, with good mineralization continuity in the 100° and 10° directions. The spatial pattern of the elemental grade correlates with mineralization enrichment. The trend surface analysis shows that the Ag, Pb, Zn, and Cu mineralization is weak in the south and strong in the north of the deposit, and the Sn grades and Zn/Pb values are high in the south and low in the north. High-temperature Sn, medium-temperature Cu, and medium-temperature Ag–Pb–Zn mineralization have occurred in a south-to-north trend. Therefore, the source of the ore-forming fluid was in the southern part of the mining area. During the migration of the ore-forming fluid from south to north, different minerals were precipitated due to changes in the physicochemical environment. The spatial patterns of mineralization may provide a basis for studying the formation of the ore deposit, and can guide ore exploration and mining in the mine area and similar ore deposits elsewhere.
Study of 405 nm Laser-Induced Time-Resolved Photoluminescence Spectroscopy on Spinel and Alexandrite
Authors: Xu Wenxing , Tsai Tsung-Han , Palke Aaron
Published: March 2023

Research on photoluminescence spectroscopy on Cr-doped gem materials has demonstrated great success regarding the identification of gemstones in terms of building rapid test systems. In this study, 405 nm photoluminescence spectroscopy was used to measure the luminescence decay profiles of dozens of natural and lab-grown spinel (including heated spinel) and alexandrite. Spinel and alexandrite are both capable of producing photoluminescence with a long lifetime: spinel between 9 and 23 microseconds and alexandrite from 25 to 53 microseconds. The photoluminescence lifetime and exponential parameters of the half-life demonstrated notable differences in the ranges of decay times between natural, heated, and lab-grown versions of these materials.
Profiling and Quantification of Anthocyanins in Purple-Pericarp Sweetcorn and Purple-Pericarp Maize
Authors: Anirban Apurba , Hong Hung T. , O’Hare Tim J.
Published: March 2023

Purple-pericarp sweetcorn accessions, derived from crossing purple-pericarp maize with white shrunken2 sweetcorn, were assessed for differences in anthocyanin profile at both sweetcorn eating stage and at full kernel maturity. The ‘Tim1’ sweetcorn line developed a similar total anthocyanin concentration to its ‘Costa Rica’ parent when assessed at sweetcorn-eating stage. At full maturity it surpassed the purple maize parent, but this was mainly due to the presence of starch diluting the anthocyanin concentration of the latter. The anthocyanin/colour relationship was affected by both total anthocyanin concentration and the ratio of cyanidin- to pelargonidin-based anthocyanins. Malonylation of anthocyanins was also found to vary and did not appear to be linked with either cyanidin:pelargonidin ratio or total anthocyanin concentration. In addition, anthocyanin synthesis was affected by kernel maturity at harvest, with colour development increasing in conjunction with a progression of anthocyanin development across the kernel surface. Pigmentation was present in the aleurone, pericarp and vitreous endosperm of kernels of the purple-pericarp maize parent and purple-pericarp sweetcorn accessions when fully mature, but pigmentation was only apparent in the pericarp at sweetcorn-eating stage. Importantly for consumers, anthocyanin pigmentation covered almost the entire kernel surface at sweetcorn-eating stage.
Recent Advances in Molecule Synthesis Involving C-C Bond Cleavage of Ketoxime Esters
Authors: Chen Pu , Huang Huawen , Tan Qi , Ji Xiaochen , Zhao Feng
Published: March 2023

The synthetic strategies of oxime derivatives participating in radical-type reactions have been rapidly developed in the last few decades. Among them, the N–O bond cleavage of oxime esters leading to formation of nitrogen-centered radicals triggers adjacent C–C bond cleavage to produce carbon-centered free radicals, which has been virtually used in organic synthesis in recent years. Herein, we summarized the radical reactions involving oxime N–O bond and C–C bond cleavage through this special reaction form, including those from acyl oxime ester derivatives and cyclic ketoxime ester derivatives. These contents were systematically classified according to different reaction types. In this review, the free radical reactions involving acyl oxime esters and cyclic ketoxime esters after 2021 were included, with emphasis on the substrate scope and reaction mechanism.
Physicochemical Properties of Plasma-Activated Water and Its Control Effects on the Quality of Strawberries
Authors: Yang Xiao , Zhang Can , Li Qunfang , Cheng Jun-Hu
Published: March 2023

In this study, the effects of plasma-activated water (PAW), generated by dielectric barrier discharge cold plasma at the gas–liquid interface, on the quality of fresh strawberries during storage were investigated. The results showed that, with the prolongation of plasma treatment time, the pH of PAW declined dramatically and the electrical conductivity increased significantly. The active components, including NO2−, NO3−, H2O2, and O2−, accumulated gradually in PAW, whereas the concentration of O2− decreased gradually with the treatment time after 2 min. No significant changes were found in pH, firmness, color, total soluble solids, malondialdehyde, vitamin C, or antioxidant activity in the PAW-treated strawberries (p > 0.05). Furthermore, the PAW treatment delayed the quality deterioration of strawberries and extended their shelf life. Principal component analysis and hierarchical cluster analysis showed that the PAW 2 treatment group demonstrated the best prolonged freshness effect, with the highest firmness, total soluble solids, vitamin C, and DPPH radical scavenging activity, and the lowest malondialdehyde and ∆E* values, after 4 days of storage. It was concluded that PAW showed great potential for maintaining the quality of fresh fruits and extending their shelf life.
Luminescent Properties and Charge Compensator Effects of SrMo0.5W0.5O4:Eu3+ for White Light LEDs
Authors: Kong Li , Sun Hao , Nie Yuhao , Yan Yue , Wang Runze , Ding Qin , Zhang Shuang , Yu Haihui , Luan Guoyan
Published: March 2023

The high-temperature solid-phase approach was used to synthesize Eu3+-doped SrMo0.5W0.5O4 phosphors, whose morphological structure and luminescence properties were then characterized by XRD, SEM, FT-IR, excitation spectra, emission spectra, and fluorescence decay curves. The results reveal that the best phosphor synthesis temperature was 900 °C and that the doping of Eu3+ and charge compensators (K+, Li+, Na+, NH4+) had no effect on the crystal phase change. SrMo0.5W0.5O4:Eu3+ has major excitation peaks at 273 nm, 397 nm, and 464 nm, and a main emission peak at 615 nm, making it a potential red fluorescent material to be used as a down converter in UV LEDs (273 nm and 397 nm) and blue light LEDs (464 nm) to achieve Red emission. The emission spectra of Sr1−yMo0.5W0.5O4:yEu3+(y = 0.005, 0.01, 0.02, 0.05, 0.07) excited at 273 were depicted, with the Eu3+ concentration increasing the luminescence intensity first increases and then decreases, the emission peak intensity of SrMo0.5W0.5O4:Eu3+ achieves its maximum when the doping concentration of Eu3+ is 1%, and the critical transfer distance is calculated as 25.57 Å. When various charge compensators such as K+, Li+, Na+, and NH4+ are added to SrMo0.5W0.5O4:Eu3+, the NH4+ shows the best effect with the optimal doping concentration of 3wt%. The SrMo0.5W0.5O4:Eu3+,NH4+ color coordinate is (0.656,0.343), which is close to that of the ideal red light (0.670,0.333).
Chemical Constituents and Hypoglycemic Mechanisms of Dendrobium nobile in Treatment of Type 2 Diabetic Rats by UPLC-ESI-Q-Orbitrap, Network Pharmacology and In Vivo Experimental Verification
Authors: Li Zhaoyang , Zeng Meiling , Geng Keyong , Lai Donna , Xu Zhi , Zhou Wei
Published: March 2023

This study aimed to systematically explore the chemical constituents of D. nobile and its hypoglycemic effect by UPLC-ESI-Q-Orbitrap, network pharmacology and in vivo experiment. The chemical constituents of D. nobile were qualitatively analyzed, and the hypoglycemic compounds were quickly identified. Network pharmacological analysis and molecular docking technique were applied to assist in the elucidation of the hypoglycemic mechanisms of D. nobile. A type 2 diabetic mellitus (T2DM) rat model was established using the HFD and STZ method for in vivo experimental verification, and these T2DM rats were treated with D. nobile extract and D. nobile polysaccharide for two months by gavage. The results showed that a total of 39 chemical constituents of D. nobile, including alkaloids, bibenzyls, phenanthrenes and other types of compounds, were identified. D. nobile extract and D. nobile polysaccharide could significantly ameliorate the body weight, hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia and morphological impairment of the liver and pancreas in the T2DM rats. α-Linolenic acid, dihydroconiferyl dihydro-p-coumarate, naringenin, trans-N-feruloyltyramine, gigantol, moscatilin, 4-O-methylpinosylvic acid, venlafaxine, nordendrobin and tristin were regarded as the key hypoglycemic compounds of D. nobile, along with the hypoglycemic effect on the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway, the insulin signaling pathway, the FOXO signaling pathway, the improvement of insulin resistance and the AGE-RAGE signaling pathway. The Western blotting experiment results confirmed that D. nobile activated the PI3K/AKT pathway and insulin signaling pathway, promoted glycogen synthesis via regulating the expression of glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK-3β) and glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4), and inhibited liver gluconeogenesis by regulating the expression of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) and glucose 6 phosphatase (G6pase) in the liver. The results suggested that the hypoglycemic mechanism of D. nobile might be associated with liver glycogen synthesis and gluconeogenesis, contributing to improving insulin resistance and abnormal glucose metabolism in the T2DM rats.
Single-Walled vs. Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes: Influence of Physico-Chemical Properties on Toxicogenomics Responses in Mouse Lungs
Authors: Solorio-Rodriguez Silvia Aidee , Williams Andrew , Poulsen Sarah Søs , Knudsen Kristina Bram , Jensen Keld Alstrup , Clausen Per Axel , Danielsen Pernille Høgh , Wallin Håkan , Vogel Ulla , Halappanavar Sabina
Published: March 2023

Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) are nanomaterials with one or multiple layers of carbon sheets. While it is suggested that various properties influence their toxicity, the specific mechanisms are not completely known. This study was aimed to determine if single or multi-walled structures and surface functionalization influence pulmonary toxicity and to identify the underlying mechanisms of toxicity. Female C57BL/6J BomTac mice were exposed to a single dose of 6, 18, or 54 μg/mouse of twelve SWCNTs or MWCNTs of different properties. Neutrophil influx and DNA damage were assessed on days 1 and 28 post-exposure. Genome microarrays and various bioinformatics and statistical methods were used to identify the biological processes, pathways and functions altered post-exposure to CNTs. All CNTs were ranked for their potency to induce transcriptional perturbation using benchmark dose modelling. All CNTs induced tissue inflammation. MWCNTs were more genotoxic than SWCNTs. Transcriptomics analysis showed similar responses across CNTs at the pathway level at the high dose, which included the perturbation of inflammatory, cellular stress, metabolism, and DNA damage responses. Of all CNTs, one pristine SWCNT was found to be the most potent and potentially fibrogenic, so it should be prioritized for further toxicity testing.
Metal Oxide Nanosheet: Synthesis Approaches and Applications in Energy Storage Devices (Batteries, Fuel Cells, and Supercapacitors)
Authors: Das Arnob , Peu Susmita Datta , Hossain Md. Sanowar , Akanda Md Abdul Mannan , Salah Mostafa M. , Akanda Md Muzaffer Hosen , Rahman Mahbubur , Das Barun K.
Published: March 2023

In recent years, the increasing energy requirement and consumption necessitates further improvement in energy storage technologies to obtain high cycling stability, power and energy density, and specific capacitance. Two-dimensional metal oxide nanosheets have gained much interest due to their attractive features, such as composition, tunable structure, and large surface area which make them potential materials for energy storage applications. This review focuses on the establishment of synthesis approaches of metal oxide nanosheets (MO nanosheets) and their advancements over time, as well as their applicability in several electrochemical energy storage systems, such as fuel cells, batteries, and supercapacitors. This review provides a comprehensive comparison of different synthesis approaches of MO nanosheets, as well their suitability in several energy storage applications. Among recent improvements in energy storage systems, micro-supercapacitors, and several hybrid storage systems are rapidly emerging. MO nanosheets can be employed as electrode and catalyst material to improve the performance parameters of energy storage devices. Finally, this review outlines and discusses the prospects, future challenges, and further direction for research and applications of metal oxide nanosheets.
Effect of Doping TiO2 NPs with Lanthanides (La, Ce and Eu) on the Adsorption and Photodegradation of Cyanide—A Comparative Study
Authors: Jaramillo-Fierro Ximena , León Ricardo
Published: March 2023

Free cyanide is a highly dangerous compound for health and the environment, so treatment of cyanide-contaminated water is extremely important. In the present study, TiO2, La/TiO2, Ce/TiO2, and Eu/TiO2 nanoparticles were synthesized to assess their ability to remove free cyanide from aqueous solutions. Nanoparticles synthesized through the sol–gel method were characterized by X-ray powder diffractometry (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), and specific surface area (SSA). Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models were utilized to fit the adsorption equilibrium experimental data, and pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order, and intraparticle diffusion models were used to fit the adsorption kinetics experimental data. Cyanide photodegradation and the effect of reactive oxygen species (ROS) on the photocatalytic process were investigated under simulated solar light. Finally, reuse of the nanoparticles in five consecutive treatment cycles was determined. The results showed that La/TiO2 has the highest percentage of cyanide removal (98%), followed by Ce/TiO2 (92%), Eu/TiO2 (90%), and TiO2 (88%). From these results, it is suggested that La, Ce, and Eu dopants can improve the properties of TiO2 as well as its ability to remove cyanide species from aqueous solutions.
Co3O4 Nanoparticle-Modified Porous Carbons with High Microwave Absorption Performances
Authors: Zeng Shuangyin , Han Shaojie , Sun Xiaotian , Wang Li , Gao Yanfeng , Chen Zhang , Feng Haitao
Published: March 2023

Carbon materials derived from natural biomaterials have received increasing attention because of their low cost, accessibility, and renewability. In this work, porous carbon (DPC) material prepared from D-fructose was used to make a DPC/Co3O4 composite microwave absorbing material. Their electromagnetic wave absorption properties were thoroughly investigated. The results show that the composition of Co3O4 nanoparticles with DPC had enhanced microwave absorption (−60 dB to −63.7 dB), reduced the frequency of the maximum reflection loss (RL) (16.9 GHz to 9.2 GHz), and had high reflection loss over a wide range of coating thicknesses (2.78–4.84 mm, highest reflection loss <−30 dB). This work provided a way for further research on the development of biomass-derived carbon as a sustainable, lightweight, high-performance microwave absorber for practical applications.
Chemical Management of Senecio madagascariensis (Fireweed)
Authors: Wijayabandara Kusinara , Campbell Shane , Vitelli Joseph , Kalaipandian Sundaravelpandian , Adkins Steve
Published: March 2023

Fireweed (Senecio madagascariensis Poir.) is a herbaceous weed-producing pyrrolizidine alkaloid that is poisonous to livestock. To investigate the efficacy of chemical management on fireweed and its soil seed bank density, a field experiment was conducted in Beechmont, Queensland, in 2018 within a pasture community. A total of four herbicides (bromoxynil, fluroxypyr/aminopyralid, metsulfuron-methyl and triclopyr/picloram/aminopyralid) were applied either singularly or repeated after 3 months to a mix-aged population of fireweed. The initial fireweed plant density at the field site was high (10 to 18 plants m−2). However, after the first herbicide application, the fireweed plant density declined significantly (to ca. 0 to 4 plants m−2), with further reductions following the second treatment. Prior to herbicide application, fireweed seeds in both the upper (0 to 2 cm) and lower (2 to 10 cm) soil seed bank layers averaged 8804 and 3593 seeds m−2, respectively. Post-herbicide application, the seed density was significantly reduced in both the upper (970 seeds m−2) and lower (689 seeds m−2) seed bank layers. Based on the prevailing environmental conditions and nil grazing strategy of the current study, a single application of either fluroxypyr/aminopyralid, metsulfuron-methyl or triclopyr/picloram/aminopyralid would be sufficient to achieve effective control, whilst a second follow-up application is required with bromoxynil.
Contributions to the Flora of Tropical East Africa
Authors: Du Shenglan , Wang Miaoxuan , Wei Neng , Mwachala Geoffrey , Hu Guangwan , Wu Lin , Wang Shengwei , Wang Qingfeng
Published: March 2023

Tropical East Africa (TEA) is one of the most important biodiversity hotspots on the planet. Its rich flora diversity and inventory have been clearly recognized after the publication of the last volume of the Flora of Tropical East Africa (FTEA) in 2012. However, many new and newly recorded taxa have been named and documented since the publication of the first volume of FTEA in 1952. In this study, we comprehensively compiled new taxa and new records by reviewing the literature on the taxonomic contributions of vascular plants in TEA from 1952 to 2022. Our list includes 444 new and newly recorded species belonging to 81 families and 218 genera. Among these taxa, 94.59% of the plants are endemic to TEA and 48.42% are herbs. Additionally, members of Rubiaceae and Aloe are the most numerous family and genus respectively. These new taxa are unevenly distributed in TEA, but are found mainly in areas of high species richness, such as coastal, central and western areas of Kenya, central and southeastern Tanzania. This study offers summative assessment of the newly recorded flora inventory in TEA and provides recommendations for future research on plant diversity survey and conservation.
Simulation of Multi-Phase Flow in Autoclaves Using a Coupled CFD-DPM Approach
Authors: Kou Bin , Hou Yanqing , Fu Weiqin , Yang Ni , Liu Junchang , Xie Gang
Published: March 2023

In this work, a numerical simulation study on the mixing characteristics of multiphase flow in an autoclave was carried out using CFD technology. The Eulerian–Eulerian model and discrete phase model (DPM) were employed to investigate the solid holdup, critical suspension speed, nonuniformity of solid suspension, gas holdup distribution, bubble tracks, and residence time during stirring leaching in the autoclave. Experiments validate the accuracy of the numerical model, and the experimental values correspond well with the simulation results. The numerical simulation results show that the solid–liquid mixing is mainly affected by the axial flow, the best agitation speed is 400 rpm, and increasing the speed further cannot make the mixture more homogenous and buildup occurred above the autoclave. The calculated critical suspension speed is 406 rpm, which is slightly lower than that obtained from the empirical formula. The gas phase is mainly concentrated in the vortex area above the blade. When the gas phase is in a completely dispersed state (N = 300 rpm), the average residence time of the bubbles is 5.66 s.
Rotheca serrata Flower Bud Extract Mediated Bio-Friendly Preparation of Silver Nanoparticles: Their Characterizations, Anticancer, and Apoptosis Inducing Ability against Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Cell Line
Authors: Shashiraj Kariyellappa Nagaraja , Nayaka Sreenivasa , Kumar Raju Suresh , Kantli Gireesh Babu , Basavarajappa Dhanyakumara Shivapoojar , Gunagambhire Pooja Vidyasagar , Almansour Abdulrahman I. , Perumal Karthikeyan
Published: March 2023

Over past decades, the green method of synthesizing metal nanoparticles has acquired more attentiveness by scientific consensus because of its industrial and biomedical applications. This study focuses on the anti-proliferative effectiveness of AgNPs synthesized from Rotheca serrata (L.) Steane & Mabb. flower bud extract against the PANC-1 cell line in vitro. Various analytical instruments were utilized to visualize the formation of RsFb-AgNPs, such as UV-Vis spectroscopy, FT-IR, SEM, EDS, TEM, XRD, Zeta potential, and DLS analysis. The biosynthesis of RsFb-AgNPs was observed by a change in color and UV-Vis spectroscopy (415 nm). The FT-IR spectra exhibited the existence of many functional groups. XRD confirmed the crystallinity of the AgNPs. Morphology and elemental mapping were assessed by SEM and EDS analysis. The TEM micrograph revealed spherical-shaped particles with sizes ranging from 12 to 40 nm. Zeta potential and DLS analysis were used to measure surface charge and particle size. Biological properties, including the antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties of synthesized RsFb-AgNPs, exhibited dose-dependent activities. In DPPH assay, synthesized RsFb-AgNPs inhibited the scavenging of free radicals in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, the resultant RsFb-AgNPs displayed moderate antimicrobial activity against tested pathogens. Further, the anti-proliferative efficacy of biosynthesized RsFb-AgNPs was determined against the PANC-1 cell line using the MTT assay. The results revealed a dose-dependent decrease in viability of cancer cells with an IC50 value of 36.01 µg/mL. Flow cytometry was then used to confirm the apoptotic effects by double staining with annexin V/PI. In response to the pancreatic ductal adenocarinoma cell line, the results showed notable early and late apoptosis cell population percentages. In conclusion, the synthesized RsFb-AgNPs revealed a potential anticancer agent that can induce apoptosis in the PANC-1 cells.
Design and Experimental Study of a Large Beam Waist Streak Tube in an ICF Experiment
Authors: Cai Hou-zhi , Deng Xuan , Niu Li-hong , Yang Qin-lao , Zhang Jing-jin
Published: March 2023

In order to realize in situ multi-frame framing, this paper designed and developed a large-waist framing converter tube. The size ratio between the waist and the object was about 1.16:1. The subsequent test results showed that the static spatial resolution of the tube could reach 10 lp/mm (@ 72.5%) under the premise of this adjustment, and the transverse magnification could reach 2.9. Once the MCP (Micro Channel Plate) traveling wave gating unit is equipped at the output end, it is expected to promote the further development of in situ multi-frame framing technology.
Grain Risk Analysis of Meteorological Disasters in Gansu Province Using Probability Statistics and Index Approaches
Authors: Wang Jing , Fang Feng , Wang Jinsong , Yue Ping , Wang Suping , Zhang Liang
Published: March 2023

With global warming, agrometeorological disasters are also rising, posing a severe threat to China’s food security. Risk assessment serves as a bridge from disaster crisis management to risk management. Gansu Province is geographically crucial, so we performed a refined assessment of grain production risk for this province using multiple features of disaster loss data recorded at the county level. Analyses were performed for each district and county with a probability approach and an index system. We found that grain trend yields in each district and most counties in Gansu Province are increasing. Wuwei and Linxia districts had higher yearly growth rates, of more than 120 kg/(ha·year). However, there are considerable differences in risk levels among counties, even within the same district. Huating and Jinchang counties are high risk locations, while Cheng, Diebu, Jinta, and Xiahe counties are low risk zones. In 39.2% of counties, the fluctuation tendency rate of relative meteorological yield was positive. The average yield reduction rates of grain in the 1980s, 1990s, 2000s, and 2010s were 5.5%, 6.6%, 8.1%, and 4.2%, respectively, and the average fluctuation coefficients were 5.0%, 5.5%, 7.1%, and 3.8%, respectively. After 2010, most regions’ average yield reduction rates fell dramatically, and grain output progressively stabilized. Counties prone to heavy disasters are primarily spread along the Hexi Corridor, with the probability exceeding 8%. However, 27.9% of counties were spared from severe calamities, which were mainly distributed in southwestern Gansu Province. Crop disaster conditions significantly positively correlated with grain risk. Drought is the primary cause of grain yield decline in Gansu Province. The findings can provide essential policy advice for the government in disaster prevention.
Two Due-Date Assignment Scheduling with Location-Dependent Weights and a Deteriorating Maintenance Activity
Authors: Wu Wei , Lv Dan-Yang , Wang Ji-Bo
Published: March 2023

This paper investigates single-machine scheduling with a deteriorating maintenance activity, where the processing time of a job depends on whether it is handled before or after the maintenance activity. Under common and slack due date assignments, the aim is to find the optimal job schedule, position of the maintenance activity, and optimal value of the common due date (flow-allowance) so that the linear weighted sum of earliness, tardiness and common due date (flow-allowance) value is minimized, where the weights are location-dependent (position-dependent) weights. Through a series of optimal properties, a polynomial time algorithm is proposed and it is then proven that the problem is polynomially solvable.
Developments and Applications of Artificial Intelligence in Music Education
Authors: Yu Xiaofei , Ma Ning , Zheng Lei , Wang Licheng , Wang Kai
Published: March 2023

With the continuous developments of information technology, advanced computer technology and information technology have been promoted and used in the field of music. As one of the products of the rapid development of information technology, Artificial Intelligence (AI) involves many interdisciplinary subjects, adding new elements to music education. By analyzing the advantages of AI in music education, this paper systematically summarizes the application of AI in music education and discusses the development prospects of AI in music education. With the aid of AI, the combination of intelligent technology and on-site teaching solves the lack of individuation in the traditional mode and enhances students’ interest in learning.
Intraduodenal Delivery of Exosome-Loaded SARS-CoV-2 RBD mRNA Induces a Neutralizing Antibody Response in Mice
Authors: Zhang Quan , Wang Miao , Han Chunle , Wen Zhijun , Meng Xiaozhu , Qi Dongli , Wang Na , Du Huanqing , Wang Jianhong , Lu Lu , Ge Xiaohu
Published: March 2023

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), has presented numerous challenges to global health. Vaccines, including lipid—based nanoparticle mRNA, inactivated virus, and recombined protein, have been used to prevent SARS-CoV-2 infections in clinics and have been immensely helpful in controlling the pandemic. Here, we present and assess an oral mRNA vaccine based on bovine-milk-derived exosomes (milk-exos), which encodes the SARS-CoV-2 receptor-binding domain (RBD) as an immunogen. The results indicate that RBD mRNA delivered by milk-derived exosomes can produce secreted RBD peptides in 293 cells in vitro and stimulates neutralizing antibodies against RBD in mice. These results indicate that SARS-CoV-2 RBD mRNA vaccine loading with bovine-milk-derived exosomes is an easy, cheap, and novel way to introduce immunity against SARS-CoV-2 in vivo. Additionally, it also can work as a new oral delivery system for mRNA.
Modular Lightning Protection for Wind Turbines
Authors: Pastromas Sokratis , Pyrgioti Eleftheria
Published: March 2023

Wind energy holds a leading position among other renewable energy sources in electricity production. The competitive advantage of wind turbines to be connected to every electrical grid around the world and the 2030 targets of the EU have led to their high penetration in all countries, and especially European ones. Wind power plants are installed in areas with sufficient wind conditions, which simultaneously, are exposed to lightning activity, creating risks in their smooth operation. Considering the fact that there are more wind power installations in areas with different soil and topographic characteristics and the demand for the reliable, economically efficient, and smooth operation of the wind turbines, there is a need for standardized solutions that can be adapted to project-specific characteristics. In the current work it is introduced a methodology that intends to provide modular lightning protection for wind turbines and wind power plants, with the main drivers being the techno-commerciality and high availability of the facility, which can be adopted in most of the sites having as basis the relevant international standards.