bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sustainable Synthesis of Sulfur-Single Walled Carbon Nanohorns Composite for Long Cycle Life Lithium-Sulfur Battery
Authors: Venezia Eleonora , Salimi Pejman , Chauque Susana , Proietti Zaccaria Remo
Published: November 2022

Lithium–sulfur batteries are considered one of the most appealing technologies for next-generation energy-storage devices. However, the main issues impeding market breakthrough are the insulating property of sulfur and the lithium-polysulfide shuttle effect, which cause premature cell failure. To face this challenge, we employed an easy and sustainable evaporation method enabling the encapsulation of elemental sulfur within carbon nanohorns as hosting material. This synthesis process resulted in a morphology capable of ameliorating the shuttle effect and improving the electrode conductivity. The electrochemical characterization of the sulfur–carbon nanohorns active material revealed a remarkable cycle life of 800 cycles with a stable capacity of 520 mA h/g for the first 400 cycles at C/4, while reaching a value around 300 mAh/g at the 750th cycle. These results suggest sulfur–carbon nanohorn active material as a potential candidate for next-generation battery technology.
Sodium and Potassium Concentrations and Somatic Cell Count of Human Milk Produced in the First Six Weeks Postpartum and Their Suitability as Biomarkers of Clinical and Subclinical Mastitis
Authors: Pace Ryan M. , Pace Christina D. W. , Fehrenkamp Bethaney D. , Price William J. , Lewis Meghan , Williams Janet E. , McGuire Mark A. , McGuire Michelle K.
Published: November 2022

The sodium (Na) concentration and the ratio of Na to potassium (K; Na/K) in human milk are used commonly as biomarkers of subclinical mastitis, but limited data exist on their relationship to and ability to predict clinical mastitis. Here, we assessed concentrations of Na, K, Na/K, and somatic cell count (SCC), a mammary health biomarker used in the dairy industry, in milk prospectively collected from both breasts of 41 women over the first 6 weeks postpartum. Although values differed over time postpartum, there were no differences in mean values between breasts. Nearly one-quarter (24%) of participants experienced clinical mastitis. Somatic cell counts >4.76 × 105 cells/mL were most strongly related to development of clinical mastitis in the following week (odds ratio, 7.81; 95% CI, 2.15–28.30; p = 0.002), although relationships were also observed for SCC > 4.00 × 105 cells/mL and Na concentration >12 mmol/L. Estimates of the prevalence of subclinical mastitis in women who never progressed to clinical mastitis differed by biomarker but ranged from 20 to 75%. Despite these findings, positive predictive values (PPV) of the biomarkers for identifying clinical mastitis were low (≤0.34), indicating additional research is needed to identify single biomarkers or composite measures that are highly specific, sensitive, and predictive of clinical mastitis in women.
The Lignan-Rich Fraction from Sambucus williamsii Hance Exerts Bone Protective Effects via Altering Circulating Serotonin and Gut Microbiota in Rats
Authors: Xiao Hui-Hui , Zhu Yu-Xin , Lu Lu , Zhou Li-Ping , Poon Christina Chui-Wa , Chan Chi-On , Wang Li-Jing , Cao Sisi , Yu Wen-Xuan , Wong Ka-Ying , Mok Daniel Kam-Wah , Wong Man-Sau
Published: November 2022

Our previous study revealed that the bone anabolic effects of the lignan-rich fraction (SWCA) from Sambucus williamsii Hance was involved in modulating the metabolism of tryptophan in vivo and inhibiting serotonin (5-HT) synthesis in vitro. This study aimed to determine how SWCA modulates bone metabolism via serotonin in vivo. The effects of SWCA were evaluated by using 4-month-old Sprague-Dawley (SD) ovariectomized rats. The serum levels of 5-HT and kynurenine, the protein expressions of tryptophan hydroxylase 1 (TPH-1) and TPH-2, the genes and proteins related to the 5-HT signaling pathway as well as gut microbiota composition were determined. SWCA treatment alleviated bone loss and decreased serum levels of serotonin, which was negatively related to bone mineral density (BMD) in rats. It suppressed the protein expression of TPH-1 in the colon, and reversed the gene and protein expressions of FOXO1 and ATF4 in the femur in OVX rats, while it did not affect the TPH-2 protein expression in the cortex. SWCA treatment escalated the relative abundance of Antinobacteria and modulated several genera relating to BMD. These findings verified that the bone protective effects of lignans were mediated by serotonin, and provided evidence that lignans might be a good source of TPH-1 inhibitors.
Understanding Hydrogen: Lessons to Be Learned from Physical Interactions between the Inert Gases and the Globin Superfamily
Authors: Hancock John T. , Russell Grace , Craig Tim J. , May Jennifer , Morse H. Ruth , Stamler Jonathan S.
Published: November 2022

Hydrogen gas (molecular hydrogen, H2) has significant effects in a range of organisms, from plants to humans. Many inert gases have been reported to have similar effects, and such responses may be most pronounced when cells are stressed. Xenon (Xe), for example, is a well-known anesthetic. The direct targets of these gases, in most cases, remain elusive. Myoglobin and hemoglobin are known for their roles in the transport of gases through coordinate interactions with metals (O2, NO, CO) and covalent modifications of thiols (NO, H2S) and amines (CO2). These are well exemplified in biotrophic reactions of NO with heme iron (to form iron nitrosyl heme) and cysteine (to form bioactive S-nitrosothiols) essential for tissue oxygenation. Here, we consider an alternative “third mode” of gas transport in what have been dubbed “Xenon pockets”, whereby inert gases may have functional effects. Many proteins have similar cavities, and possible effects include alterations in allosteric properties of proteins (potentially altering protein hydration). Here, it is suggested that similar to other inert gases, H2 also has biological effects by utilizing these protein structures. This ought to be investigated further, in a range of species, to determine if this is the mode of action of H2.
Improving the Efficacy of Quinolylnitrones for Ischemic Stroke Therapy, QN4 and QN15 as New Neuroprotective Agents after Oxygen–Glucose Deprivation/Reoxygenation-Induced Neuronal Injury
Authors: Alonso José M. , Escobar-Peso Alejandro , Fernández Israel , Alcázar Alberto , Marco-Contelles José
Published: November 2022

In our search for new neuroprotective agents for stroke therapy to improve the pharmacological profile of the compound quinolylnitrone QN23, we have prepared and studied sixteen new, related and easily available quinolylnitrones. As a result, we have identified compounds QN4 and QN15 as promising candidates showing high neuroprotection power in a cellular experimental model of ischemia. Even though they were found to be less active than our current lead compound QN23, QN4 and QN15 provide an improved potency and, particularly for QN4, an expanded range of tolerability and improved solubility compared to the parent compound. A computational DFT-based analysis has been carried out to understand the antioxidant power of quinolylnitrones QN23, QN4 and QN15. Altogether, these results show that subtle, simple modifications of the quinolylnitrone scaffold are tolerated, providing high neuroprotective activity and optimization of the pharmacological potency required for an improved design and future drug developments in the field.
The Anxiolytic Activity of Schinus terebinthifolia Leaf Lectin (SteLL) Is Dependent on Monoaminergic Signaling although Independent of the Carbohydrate-Binding Domain of the Lectin
Authors: Lima Bárbara Raíssa Ferreira de , Patriota Leydianne Leite de Siqueira , Marinho Amanda de Oliveira , Costa Jainaldo Alves da , Napoleão Thiago Henrique , Rosa Michelle Melgarejo da , Paiva Patrícia Maria Guedes
Published: November 2022

The potential of plant lectins (carbohydrate-binding proteins) for the treatment of neurological disorders such as anxiety and depression has started to be reported in the last few years. Schinus terebinthifolia leaves contain a lectin called SteLL, which has displayed antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, antitumor, and analgesic activities. However, the effects of SteLL on the Central Nervous System (CNS) have not yet been determined. In this study, we investigated the in vivo anxiolytic effect of SteLL in mice using the open field (OF) and elevated plus maze (EPM) tests. In the OF, SteLL (1, 2, and 4 mg/kg, i.p.) did not interfere with the number of crossings but significantly reduced the number of rearings. In the EPM, SteLL 4 mg/kg and the combination SteLL (1 mg/kg) plus diazepam (1 mg/kg) significantly increased the time spent in the open arms while reducing the time spent in the closed arms. The anxiolytic effect of SteLL did not seem to be dependent on the carbohydrate-binding domain of the lectin. Nevertheless, the SteLL effect in the EPM was reversed by the pretreatment with the pharmacological antagonists of the α2-adrenoceptor, 5-HT2A/2C serotonin receptor, and the D1 dopamine receptor. Overall, our results suggest that the anxiolytic effect of SteLL is dependent on the monoaminergic signaling cascade.
Exploration of Solanum xanthocarpum Schrad. & Wendl. against Mycobacterium avium Subspecies paratuberculosis and Assessment of Its Immunomodulatory and Anti-Inflammatory Potential
Authors: Srivastava Varsha , Navabharath Manthena , Gupta Saurabh , Singh Shoor Vir , Ahmad Sayeed
Published: November 2022

Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP), being a dairy-borne pathogen, resistant of pasteurization and other sterilization techniques, is a major cause for development of inflammatory bowel disorders such as Johne’s disease (JD) in dairy animals and Crohn’s Disease (CD) in humans, for which no therapy is available to date. In the absence of effective therapy or a vaccine, management of CD has been accomplished by removal of the affected intestines. However, usually, even after removal of 2/3 of the intestine, CD reoccurs. Hence, there exists a need to develop an alternative therapy for such infection. The potential of herbals remains unexplored against MAP and related infections. Therefore, the conducted study is a novel initiative for the evaluation of anti-mycobacterial activity of bioactive extracts of Solanum xanthocarpum Schrad. & Wendl. against MAP infection. The said plant was authenticated according to the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Qualitative and quantitative evaluation of the extracts were done using chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques. Preliminary in vitro pharmacological assessments revealed the immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory potential of the extracts. REMA assay was conducted to determine their anti-MAP activity along with determination of the best active extract. The hydro-alcoholic extract showed the best inhibition of MAP, providing a potential ray of hope against this emerging major pathogen of animals, and associated with Crohn’s disease and other autoimmune disorders in human beings.
Sequential Delivery of Novel Triple Drug Combination via Crosslinked Alginate/Lactoferrin Nanohybrids for Enhanced Breast Cancer Treatment
Authors: Salah Mai , Sallam Marwa A. , Abdelmoneem Mona A. , Teleb Mohamed , Elkhodairy Kadria A. , Bekhit Adnan A. , Khafaga Asmaa F. , Noreldin Ahmed E. , Elzoghby Ahmed O. , Khattab Sherine N.
Published: November 2022

While breast cancer remains a global health concern, the elaboration of rationally designed drug combinations coupled with advanced biocompatible delivery systems offers new promising treatment venues. Herein, we repurposed rosuvastatin (RST) based on its selective tumor apoptotic effect and combined it with the antimetabolite pemetrexed (PMT) and the tumor-sensitizing polyphenol honokiol (HK). This synergistic three-drug combination was incorporated into protein polysaccharide nanohybrids fabricated by utilizing sodium alginate (ALG) and lactoferrin (LF), inspired by the stealth property of the former and the cancer cell targeting capability of the latter. ALG was conjugated to PMT and then coupled with LF which was conjugated to RST, forming core shell nanohybrids into which HK was physically loaded, followed by cross linking using genipin. The crosslinked HK-loaded PMT–ALG/LF–RST nanohybrids exhibited a fair drug loading of 7.86, 5.24 and 6.11% for RST, PMT and HK, respectively. It demonstrated an eight-fold decrease in the IC50 compared to the free drug combination, in addition to showing an enhanced cellular uptake by MCF-7 cells. The in vivo antitumor efficacy in a breast cancer-bearing mouse model confirmed the superiority of the triple cocktail-loaded nanohybrids. Conclusively, our rationally designed triple drug-loaded protein/polysaccharide nanohybrids offer a promising, biocompatible approach for an effective breast tumor suppression.
Glial Cell Line-Derived Neurotrophic Factor-Loaded CMCht/PAMAM Dendrimer Nanoparticles for Peripheral Nerve Repair
Authors: Escobar Ane , Carvalho Mariana R. , Maia F. Raquel , Reis Rui L. , Silva Tiago H. , Oliveira Joaquim M.
Published: November 2022

(1) Background: Peripheral nerve injuries represent a major clinical challenge. If nerve ends retract, there is no spontaneous regeneration and grafts are required to proximate the nerve ends and give continuity to the nerve. (2) Methods: GDNF-loaded NPs were characterized physicochemically. For that, NPs stability at different pH’s was assessed, and GDNF release was studied through ELISA. In vitro studies are performed with Schwann cells, and the NPs are labeled with fluorescein-5(6)-isothiocyanate for uptake experiments with SH-SY5Y neural cells. (3) Results: GDNF-loaded NPs are stable in physiological conditions, releasing GDNF in a two-step profile, which is beneficial for nerve repair. Cell viability is improved after 1 day of culture, and the uptake is near 99.97% after 3 days of incubation. (4) Conclusions: The present work shows the efficiency of using CMCht/PAMAM NPs as a GDNF-release system to act on peripheral nerve regeneration.
Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D Printing of the Thermo-Sensitive Peptidomimetic Drug Enalapril Maleate
Authors: Hoffmann Lena , Breitkreutz Jörg , Quodbach Julian
Published: November 2022

Fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing was used to produce 3D printed tablets with the thermo-sensitive model peptidomimetic drug enalapril maleate (EM). Two different formulations were prepared to investigate the degradation of enalapril maleate during the FDM 3D printing process. Soluplus® and Eudragit® E PO were chosen as polymers. After hot-melt extrusion (HME) and FDM 3D printing, both formulations were characterised regarding their solid-state properties using DSC and XRD. The degradation of the drug was analysed by determination of the content in the extrudates and 3D printed tablets, and dissolution was assessed. Various approaches have been attempted to prevent degradation of enalapril maleate, including utilization of a larger nozzle diameter and higher printing speeds to reduce heat exposition. None of these approaches were successful in preventing drug degradation. However, significant differences in the amount of degradation between the two formulations with different polymers could be observed. Thus, the FDM 3D printing process was not feasible without any degradation for the thermo-sensitive drug enalapril maleate. A maximum of 85.55 ± 1.48% enalapril was recovered in Eudragit® E PO tablets printed with a 0.4 mm nozzle at a temperature of 180 °C and with a speed of 30 mm/s.
Process Optimization Based on Analysis of Dynamic and Static Performance Requirements of Ion Beam Figuring Machine Tools for Sub-Nanometer Figuring
Authors: Wang Yongbin , Hu Hao , Dai Yifan , Lin Zhifan , Xue Shuai
Published: November 2022

Extreme ultraviolet lithography objective lenses require surface figure accuracy of approximately sub-nanometer root mean square (RMS). As the key equipment for sub-nanometer accuracy figuring, the dynamic and static performance of ion beam figuring (IBF) machine tools are critical. However, the related research is not sufficient and comprehensive. To this end, a general model of dynamic and static performance requirements on three-axis IBF machine tools was established. The requirements on dynamic and static performance under different figuring process for different surface shape were comprehensively analyzed. Analysis results revealed that the three-axis IBF machine tools require typical motion accuracy better than 100 μm and certain dynamic performance for achieving sub-nanometer accuracy. According to the theoretical and simulation results, a process optimization based on analysis of dynamic and static performance requirements of IBF machine tools for sub-nanometer figuring is proposed. To verify the proposed method, a Φ90 mm mirror with 2.594 nm RMS was figured to 0.251 nm RMS by optimizing the processing parameters to ensure that the IBF machine tool with measured performance (positioning error of 52.74 μm, 53.04 μm, 37.71 μm, and maximum acceleration of 1.0 m/s2, 1.3 m/s2, and 1.5 m/s2 for axes x, y, and z, respectively) meets the performance requirements. The proposed method can promote the application of three-axis IBF machine tools in sub-nanometer accuracy figuring.
Foliar Application of Silicon in Vitis vinifera: Targeted Metabolomics Analysis as a Tool to Investigate the Chemical Variations in Berries of Four Grapevine Cultivars
Authors: Sut Stefania , Malagoli Mario , Dall’Acqua Stefano
Published: November 2022

Silicon (Si) is a beneficial element for the growth of various crops, but its effect on plant metabolism is still not completely elucidated. Even if Si is not classified as an essential element for plants, the literature has reported its beneficial effects in a variety of species. In this work, the influence of Si foliar application on berry composition was evaluated on four grapevine cultivars. The berries of Teroldego and Oseleta (red grapes) and Garganega and Chardonnay (white grapes) were analyzed after foliar application of silicon by comparing the treated and control groups. A targeted metabolomic approach was used that focused on secondary metabolites, amino acids, sugars, and tartaric acid. Measurements were performed using liquid chromatography coupled with a diode array detector and mass spectrometry (LC-DAD-MSn), a LC-evaporative light scattering detector (ELDS), and LC-MS/MS methods specific for the analysis of each class of constituents. After the data collection, multivariate models, PCA, PLS-DA, OPLS-DA, were elaborated to evaluate the effect of Si application in the treated vs. control samples. Results were different for each grape cultivar. A significant increase in anthocyanins was observed in the Oseleta cultivar, with 0.48 mg g−1 FW in the untreated samples vs. 1.25 mg g−1 FW in the Si-treated samples. In Garganega, Si treatment was correlated with increased proline levels. In Chardonnay, the Si application was related to decreased tartaric acid. The results of this work show for the first time that Si induces cultivar specific changes in the berry composition in plants cultivated without an evident abiotic or biotic stress.
A Genome-Wide Association Study of Senegalese Sorghum Seedlings Responding to Pathotype 5 of Sporisorium reilianum
Authors: Ahn Ezekiel , Fall Coumba , Prom Louis K. , Magill Clint
Published: November 2022

Sporisorium reilianum is a fungal pathogen that causes head smut in sorghum. In addition to pathotypes (P) 1-4, P5 and P6 were identified recently. In this study, seedlings of Senegalese sorghum, comprising 163 accessions, were evaluated for response to Sporisorium reilianum. Teliospores of pathotype P5 of the pathogen in dilute agar were pipetted onto seedling shoots while still in soil, and inoculated seedlings were submerged under water at 4 days post-inoculation. Signs of infection (noticeable spots) on the first leaf were checked daily up to 6 days post submergence. A genome-wide association study (GWAS) was conducted using 193,727 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) throughout the genome based on two types of phenotypic data: whether noticeable spots were shown or not and the average time for an observation of the spots across 163 accessions. When mapped back to the reference sorghum genome, most of the top candidate SNP loci were associated with plant defense or plant stress response-related genes. The identified SNP loci were associated with spot appearance in sorghum seedlings under flooding following inoculation with P5 of Sporisorium reilianum.
Effect of Lippia alba (Mill.) N.E. Brown Essential Oil on the Human Umbilical Artery
Authors: Borges Alex S. , Bastos Carla M. S. , Dantas Debora M. , Milfont Cícera G. B. , Brito Guilherme M. H. , Pereira-de-Morais Luís , Delmondes Gyllyandeson A. , da Silva Renata E. R. , Kennedy-Feitosa Emanuel , Maia Francisco P. A. , Lima Clara M. G. , Bin Emran Talha , Coutinho Henrique Douglas M. , Menezes Irwin Rose A. , Kerntopf Marta R. , Caruso Gianluca , Barbosa Roseli
Published: November 2022

Lippia alba is popularly known as lemon balm, with its essential oil (EO) cited for displaying antimicrobial, sedative, and vasorelaxant effects. Yet, its action on isolated human vessels has not been described in the literature. Thus, we evaluated the vasorelaxant effect of essential oil of L. alba (EOLa) on human umbilical arteries (HUA) isolated in organ baths. HUA rings were isolated, subjected to contractions induced by potassium chloride (KCl), serotonin (5-HT), or histamine (HIST) to record the isometric tension, and then treated with EOLa (30–1000 µg/mL). The EOLa showed a more prominent inhibitory effect on the pharmacomechanical coupling contraction via HIST with an EC50 value of 277.1 ± 8.5 µg/mL and maximum relaxant effect at 600 µg/mL. The addition of tetraethylammonium (TEA) or 4-aminopyridine (4-AP) in HUA preparations did not inhibit EOLa total relaxant effect at 1000 µg/mL. In the presence of gliblenclamide (GLI), the oil relaxed the HUA rings by 90.8% at maximum concentration. The EOLa was also investigated for its effects on voltage-operated calcium channels (VOCCs), where the HUA preincubation with this oil at 1000 μg/mL inhibited BaCl2 (0.1–30 mM)-induced contractions. This study demonstrates for the first time that EOla has a vasorelaxant effect on HUA and its particular blockade of VOCCs.
Multiple-Traits Selection in White Guinea Yam (Dioscorea rotundata) Genotypes
Authors: Norman Prince Emmanuel , Agre Paterne A. , Asiedu Robert , Asfaw Asrat
Published: November 2022

Choosing superior parents with complementary trait values for hybridization and selecting variants with desired product profiles to release as a new cultivar are important breeding activities to progress genetic improvement in crops. This study assessed the genetic potential of 36 parental lines of white Guinea yam (Dioscorea rotundata) genotypes using multi-trait index-based factor analysis and ideotype design (FAI-BLUP). The experiment utilized 36 white yam genotypes laid out in a 6 × 6 triple lattice design with three replications and phenotyped for 18 agronomic and food quality traits. Findings showed significant differences among genotypes for all assessed traits. Fifteen traits had desired genetic gains, whereas stem diameter (−1.34%), and two starch property traits ((holding strength (−26.31%) and final paste viscosity (−3.33%)) had undesired selection gain. The FAI-BLUP index provided total genetic gains of 148.91% for traits desired for increase and –29.26% for those desired for decrease. Genotypes TDr08-21-2, TDr9518544, TDr9501932, TDr8902665 and Pampars were identified as top best candidate for simultaneous improvement of the measured traits in white yam breeding. The findings indicate the effectiveness of the FAI-BLUP index in identifying and selecting genotypes.
Genetic Analysis of Mutagenesis That Induces the Photoperiod Insensitivity of Wild Cotton Gossypium hirsutum Subsp. purpurascens
Authors: Kushanov Fakhriddin N. , Komilov Doniyor J. , Turaev Ozod S. , Ernazarova Dilrabo K. , Amanboyeva Roza S. , Gapparov Bunyod M. , Yu John Z.
Published: November 2022

Cotton genus Gossypium L., especially its wild species, is rich in genetic diversity. However, this valuable genetic resource is barely used in cotton breeding programs. In part, due to photoperiod sensitivities, the genetic diversity of Gossypium remains largely untapped. Herein, we present a genetic analysis of morphological, cytological, and genomic changes from radiation-mediated mutagenesis that induced plant photoperiod insensitivity in the wild cotton of Gossypium hirsutum. Several morphological and agronomical traits were found to be highly inheritable using the progeny between the wild-type G. hirsutum subsp. purpurascens (El-Salvador) and its mutant line (Kupaysin). An analysis of pollen mother cells (PMCs) revealed quadrivalents that had an open ring shape and an adjoining type of divergence of chromosomes from translocation complexes. Using 336 SSR markers and 157 F2 progenies that were grown with parental genotypes and F1 hybrids in long day and short night conditions, five quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with cotton flowering were located on chromosomes At-05, At-11, and Dt-07. Nineteen candidate genes related to the flowering traits were suggested through molecular and in silico analysis. The DNA markers associated with the candidate genes, upon future functional analysis, would provide useful tools in marker-assisted selection (MAS) in cotton breeding programs for early flowering and maturity.
Genetic Structure of the Liriope muscari Polyploid Complex and the Possibility of Its Genetic Disturbance in Japan
Authors: Watanabe Keita , Yaneshita Makoto , Denda Tetsuo , Yokota Masatsugu , Hirota Shun K. , Suyama Yoshihisa , Tsumura Yoshihiko
Published: November 2022

Anthropogenic activities, such as the movement of plants through greening, can result in genetic disturbance that can interfere with local adaptation in wild populations. Although research is underway to prevent genetic disturbance associated with greening, genetic disturbance of intraspecific polyploidy, which is estimated to be present in 24% of vascular plants, has not been well studied. Liriope muscari is a polyploid complex with known diploid (2n = 36), tetraploid (2n = 72), and hexaploid (2n = 108) forms. The plants of this species tolerate dry and hot conditions and are therefore frequently used for greening and gardening. However, the distribution of this polyploid in Japan, its genetic structure, and genetic disturbance are not known. In this study, we investigated the polyploidy distribution and genetic structure in naturally distributed L. muscari in Japan using chloroplast DNA (cpDNA) haplotypes and nuclear DNA (nDNA). Commercially produced individuals were also studied and compared with natural populations to assess any genetic disturbance of the ploidy complex in this species. Chromosome counts, cpDNA, and nDNA results showed three genetically and cytologically distinct groups in Japan: first, a tetraploid group in mainland Japan; second, a hexaploid group in the Ryukyu Islands; and third, a diploid and tetraploid group in the Ryukyu Islands. Significant isolation by distance was also detected within the three groups (p = 0.001). Genetic disturbance due to greening and gardening should be avoided among the three groups. Genetic disturbance can be reduced by using individuals derived from natural populations that are close to the sites used for greening and gardening. For commercially produced individuals, genetic disturbance is unlikely in the Kanto region, an area of high usage, while genetic disturbance is thought possible in the Ryukyu Islands.
Potassium Humate and Plant Growth-Promoting Microbes Jointly Mitigate Water Deficit Stress in Soybean Cultivated in Salt-Affected Soil
Authors: Alharbi Khadiga , Rashwan Emadeldeen , Hafez Emad , Omara Alaa El-Dein , Mohamed Hossam Hussein , Alshaal Tarek
Published: November 2022

Lack of high-quality irrigation water and soil salinity are two main environmental factors that affect plant development. When both stressors are combined, the soil becomes sterile and constrains plant productivity. Consequently, two field trials were designed to assess whether plant growth-promoting microbes (PGPMs; Bradyrhizobium japonicum (USDA 110) and Trichoderma harzianum) and potassium humate (K-humate) can stimulate soybean growth, productivity, and seed quality under two different watering regimes as follows: (i) well-watered (WW), where plants were irrigated at 12-day intervals (recommended), and (ii) water stress (WS), where plants were irrigated at the 18-day intervals in salt-affected soil during 2020 and 2021 seasons. Results revealed that coupled application of PGPMs and K-humate resulted in a substantial improvement in K+ levels in the leaves compared to Na+ levels, which has a direct positive impact on an enhancement in the antioxidants defense system (CAT, POX, SOD), which caused the decline of the oxidative stress indicators (H2O2, MDA, and EL%) as well as proline content under water stress in salt-affected soil. Hence, a significant increase in root length, nodule weight, soybean relative water content (RWC), stomatal conductance, photosynthetic pigments, net photosynthetic rate, soluble protein, seed carbohydrate content as well as the number of pods plant−1 and seed yield was reported. In conclusion, the combined application of PGPMs and K-humate might be recommended to maximize the soybean growth and productivity under harsh growth conditions (e.g., water stress and soil salinity).
Hyaluronic Acid Modified Au@SiO2@Au Nanoparticles for Photothermal Therapy of Genitourinary Tumors
Authors: Wang Ruizhi , Du Nan , Jin Liang , Chen Wufei , Ma Zhuangxuan , Zhang Tianyu , Xu Jie , Zhang Wei , Wang Xiaolin , Li Ming
Published: November 2022

Bladder cancer and prostate cancer are the most common malignant tumors of the genitourinary system. Conventional strategies still face great challenges of high recurrence rate and severe trauma. Therefore, minimally invasive photothermal therapy (PTT) has been extensively explored to address these challenges. Herein, fluorescent Au nanoparticles (NPs) were first prepared using glutathione as template, which were then capped with SiO2 shell to improve the biocompatibility. Next, Au nanoclusters were deposited on the NPs surface to obtain Au@SiO2@Au NPs for photothermal conversion. The gaps between Au nanoparticles on their surface could enhance their photothermal conversion efficiency. Finally, hyaluronic acid (HA), which targets cancer cells overexpressing CD44 receptors, was attached on the NPs surface via 1-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-3-ethylcarbodiimide hydrochloride (EDC) chemistry to improve the accumulation of NPs in tumor tissues. Photothermal experiments showed that NPs with an average size of 37.5 nm have a high photothermal conversion efficiency (47.6%) and excellent photostability, thus exhibiting potential application as a PTT agent. The temperature of the NPs (100 μg·mL−1) could rapidly increase to 38.5 °C within 200 s and reach the peak of 57.6 °C with the laser power density of 1.5 W·cm−2 and irradiation time of 600 s. In vivo and in vitro PTT experiments showed that the NPs have high biocompatibility and excellent targeted photothermal ablation capability of cancer cells. Both bladder and prostate tumors disappeared at 15 and 18 d post-treatment with HA-Au@SiO2@Au NPs, respectively, and did not recur. In summary, HA-Au@SiO2@Au NPs can be used a powerful PTT agent for minimally invasive treatment of genitourinary tumors.
Integrated Approach to Eco-Friendly Thermoplastic Composites Based on Chemically Recycled PET Co-Polymers Reinforced with Treated Banana Fibres
Authors: Kuete Martial Aime , Van Velthem Pascal , Ballout Wael , Nysten Bernard , Devaux Jacques , Ndikontar Maurice Kor , Pardoen Thomas , Bailly Christian
Published: November 2022

A major societal issue of disposal and environmental pollution is raised by the enormous and fast-growing production of single-use polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles, especially in developing countries. To contribute to the problem solution, an original route to recycle PET in the form of value-added environmentally friendly thermoplastic composites with banana fibres (Musa acuminata) has been developed at the laboratory scale. Banana fibres are a so far undervalued by-product of banana crops with great potential as polymer reinforcement. The melt-processing constraints of commercial PET, including used bottles, being incompatible with the thermal stability limits use of natural fibres; PET has been modified with bio-sourced reactants to produce co-polymers with moderate processing temperatures below 200 °C. First, commercial PET were partially glycolyzed with 1.3-propanediol to produce co-oligomers of about 20 repeating units, which were next chain extended with succinic anhydride and post-treated in a very unusual “soft solid state” process at temperatures in the vicinity of the melting point to generate co-polymers with excellent ductility. The molar mass build-up reaction is dominated by esterification of the chain ends and benefits from the addition of succinic anhydride to rebalance the acid-to-hydroxyl end-group ratio. Infra-red spectroscopy and intrinsic viscosity were extensively used to quantify the concentration of chain ends and the average molar mass of the co-polymers at all stages of the process. The best co-polymers are crystallisable, though at slow kinetics, with a Tg of 48 °C and a melting point strongly dependent upon thermal history. The composites show high stiffness (4.8 GPa at 20% fibres), consistent with the excellent dispersion of the fibres and a very high interfacial cohesion. The strong adhesion can be tentatively explained by covalent bonding involving unreacted succinic anhydride in excess during solid stating. A first approach to quantify the sustainable benefits of this PET recycling route, based on a rational eco-selection method, gives promising results since the composites come close to low-end wood materials in terms of the stiffness/embodied energy balance. Moreover, this approach can easily be extended to many other natural fibres. The present study is limited to a proof of concept at the laboratory scale but is encouraging enough to warrant a follow-up study toward scale-up and application development.
Uncertainties in Electric Circuit Analysis of Anisotropic Electrical Conductivity and Piezoresistivity of Carbon Nanotube Nanocomposites
Authors: Lomov Stepan V. , Gudkov Nikita A. , Abaimov Sergey G.
Published: November 2022

Electrical conductivity and piezoresistivity of carbon nanotube (CNT) nanocomposites are analyzed by nodal analysis for aligned and random CNT networks dependent on the intrinsic CNT conductivity and tunneling barrier values. In the literature, these parameters are assigned with significant uncertainty; often, the intrinsic resistivity is neglected. We analyze the variability of homogenized conductivity, its sensitivity to deformation, and the validity of the assumption of zero intrinsic resistivity. A fast algorithm for simulation of a gauge factor is proposed. The modelling shows: (1) the uncertainty of homogenization caused by the uncertainty in CNT electrical properties is higher than the uncertainty, caused by the nanocomposite randomness; (2) for defect-prone nanotubes (intrinsic conductivity ~104 S/m), the influence of tunneling barrier energy on both the homogenized conductivity and gauge factor is weak, but it becomes stronger for CNTs with higher intrinsic conductivity; (3) the assumption of infinite intrinsic conductivity (defect-free nanotubes) has strong influence on the homogenized conductivity.
Computational Foretelling and Experimental Implementation of the Performance of Polyacrylic Acid and Polyacrylamide Polymers as Eco-Friendly Corrosion Inhibitors for Copper in Nitric Acid
Authors: Toghan Arafat , Fawzy Ahmed , Al Bahir Areej , Alqarni Nada , Sanad Moustafa M. S. , Khairy Mohamed , Alakhras Abbas I. , Farag Ahmed A.
Published: November 2022

Copper is primarily used in many industrial processes, but like many other metals, it suffers from corrosion damage. Polymers are not only one of the effective corrosion inhibitors but also are environmentally friendly agents in doing so. Hence, in this paper, the efficacy of two polyelectrolyte polymers, namely poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) and polyacrylamide (PAM), as corrosion inhibitors for copper in molar nitric acid medium was explored. Chemical, electrochemical, and microscopic tools were employed in this investigation. The weight-loss study revealed that the computed inhibition efficiencies (% IEs) of both PAA and PAM increased with their concentrations but diminished with increasing HNO3 concentration and temperature. The results revealed that, at similar concentrations, the values of % IEs of PAM are slightly higher than those recorded for PAA, where these values at 298 K reached 88% and 84% in the presence of a 250 mg/L of PAM and PAA, respectively. The prominent IE% values for the tested polymers are due to their strong adsorption on the Cu surface and follow the Langmuir adsorption isoform. Thermodynamic and kinetic parameters were also calculated and discussed. The kinetics of corrosion inhibition by PAA and PAM showed a negative first-order process. The results showed also that the used polymers played as mixed-kind inhibitors with anodic priority. The mechanisms of copper corrosion in nitric acid medium and its inhibition by the tested polymers were discussed. DFT calculations and molecular dynamic (MD) modelling were used to investigate the effect of PAA and PAM molecular configuration on their anti-corrosion behavior. The results indicated that the experimental and computational study are highly consistent.
Application Research of CFD-MOEA/D Optimization Algorithm in Large-Scale Reservoir Flood Control Scheduling
Authors: Jiao Hongbo , Wei Huaibin , Yang Qi , Li Min
Published: November 2022

Reservoir flood control has an important impact on flood protection and plays an important role in reducing the loss of people’s lives and property. In order to play an important role in flood control operation of large-scale reservoirs, a control flood dispatching multi-objective evolutionary algorithm based on decomposition (CFD-MOEA/D) is proposed. The same type of multi-objective optimization algorithm (non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm II (NSGA-II)) is introduced, and CFD-MOEA/D, NSGA-II, and traditional MOEA/D algorithms are compared. The research results show that the CFD-MOEA/D algorithm can obtain the non-dominated solution of the higher water level in the upstream, and the solution obtained by the CFD-MOEA/D algorithm is more sufficient than the NSGA-II algorithm and the MOEA/D algorithm. When analyzing the HV value curve, the uniformity and convergence of the optimal solution obtained by the CFD-MOEA/D algorithm are better than those of the other two algorithms. The optimal dispatching scheme of the CFD-MOEA/D algorithm is compared with the actual dispatching scheme of the reservoir, and it is found that the maximum upstream water level and the final water level obtained by the CFD-MOEA/D algorithm are both kept at approximately 325 m, which is consistent with the actual dispatching scheme. The new feature of the algorithm is that it uses a decomposition method from coarse to fine and improves the hourly scheduling scheme to obtain higher scheduling efficiency.
Enhancing Barite Carbothermal Reduction with Brown Coal by Compaction of the Charge
Authors: Ketegenov Tlek , Kamunur Kaster , Batkal Aisulu , Nadirov Rashid
Published: November 2022

Barium sulfide is an important intermediate in the manufacture of ceramics, glass, plastics, and pharmaceutical products. This substance is traditionally obtained by carbothermal reduction of barite (barium sulfate) in the presence of a carbon-containing reducing agent, mainly coal. Herein, it is demonstrated that compaction of the charge before the carbothermal reduction significantly enhances the conversion of barium sulfate to sulfide due to an increase in the contact time of carbon monoxide with barite in a compact sample in comparison with a powder sample. In the presence of NaOH as a catalyst, the degree of conversion of barium sulfate in a compact sample was 0.95–0.97 upon roasting at 1150 °C for 65 min, while in a powder sample this value did not exceed 0.6. Furthermore, charge compaction reduced the conversion activation energy (136 vs. 264 kJ mol−1), which could be a tool for reducing the energy intensity of obtaining barium sulfide from its sulfate.
Development of a Continuous Testing Device for Pavement Structure Bearing Capacity
Authors: Cao Zhipo , Liang Naixing , Zeng Sheng , Gang Xianshui
Published: November 2022

Pavement structure bearing capacity is an important evaluation parameter in pavement design, construction, maintenance management, and reconstruction, and is generally expressed by the pavement deflection value. Some of the current road bearing capacity detection equipment have high detection accuracy, but the detection speed is slow, they cannot achieve real-time continuous detection; and some detection speeds are fast, but the measurement accuracy is easily affected by the pavement roughness and vehicle vibration. Moreover, the detection result is the pavement displacement, which cannot directly reflect the comprehensive modulus of the pavement structure. In this paper, firstly, a two-stage jump mechanical model of “machine-pavement” system is established in order to develop a device that can simulate the real driving load and continuously test the bearing capacity of pavement structure, and the main factors affecting the acceleration response of vibrating drums were determined through analysis. Then, a finite element model of the “machine-pavement” system was established to overcome the difficulty in obtaining the parameters such as vibrating weight, equivalent stiffness, and equivalent damping of pavement structure in numerical solution of dynamic model. Next, the mean value A of the maximum acceleration signal of the vibrating drum and the coefficient of variation acv of the maximum acceleration signal were selected as evaluation indicators to analyze the change trend of the maximum acceleration of the vibrating drum with the excitation frequency and excitation force under different composite modulus of pavement structures. Finally, the relationship between the composite modulus E of the pavement structure and the maximum acceleration A of the vibrating drum was obtained by simulating the pavement structure with the composite modulus ranging from 100 MPa to 2900 MPa, and the accuracy of this relationship was verified by field tests. The research showed that the acceleration signal of the vibrating drum had a good fitting relationship with the bearing capacity of the pavement structure when the testing device with the vibrating drum mass of 100 kg, the exciting frequency of 60 Hz, and the exciting force of 650 N jumped on the pavement structure, and the error was about 20% after comparing with the results of Benkelman beam testing, which basically met the engineering requirements. Therefore, the device can be used to continuously detect the bearing capacity of pavement structures.
The Efficacy of Phenolic Compound Extraction from Potato Peel Waste
Authors: Xu Qin , Wang Shusheng , Milliron Heather , Han Qingyou
Published: November 2022

As an agroindustrial waste product, potato peels contain valuable phenolic compounds that can be extracted before they are sent to the landfill. Based on previous work, this study focused on determining the efficacies of phenolic compound extraction from potato peels using conventional shaking extraction (CSE) and both direct ultrasound-assisted extraction (DUAE), and indirect ultrasound-assisted extraction (IUAE). The yield curve associated with each extraction method was measured and characterized. The maximum yield of phenolic compounds and its dependence on processing parameters were evaluated. The applicability of the Peleg model for describing the yield curve was evaluated. Based on the Peleg model, a recovery ratio was defined to calculate its corresponding extraction rate. This extraction rate, combined with the yield, can be used for describing the efficacy of an extraction method. Our results indicate that the ultrasound-assisted extraction methods were capable of extracting phenolic compounds at a given recovery ratio one or two orders of magnitude faster than the CSE method. Models described in the article are expected to be useful in evaluating the extraction efficacy of valuable compounds from various agricultural or agroindustrial waste.
The Application of Artificial Intelligence in the Effective Battery Life Cycle in the Closed Circular Economy Model—A Perspective
Authors: Pregowska Agnieszka , Osial Magdalena , Urbańska Weronika
Published: November 2022

Global pollution of the environment is one of the most challenging environmental problems. Electronic-based population and anthropogenic activity are the main reasons for dramatically increasing the scale of waste generation, particularly battery waste. Improper battery waste disposal causes harmful environmental effects. Due to the release of heavy metals, battery waste affects ecosystems and health. We are faced with the challenge of effective battery waste management, especially recycling, to prevent the depletion of natural resources and maintain ecological balance. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is practically present in all areas of our lives. It enables the reduction of the costs associated with various types of research, increases automation, and accelerates productivity. This paper reviews the representative research progress of effective Artificial Intelligence-based battery waste management in the context of sustainable development, in particular, the analysis of current trends, algorithm accuracy, and data availability. Finally, the future lines of research and development directions of human-oriented Artificial Intelligence applications both in the battery production process and in battery waste management are discussed.
Environmental Impact Assessment of Construction Waste Recycling versus Disposal Scenarios Using an LCA-BIM Tool during the Design Stage
Authors: Llatas Carmen , Quiñones Rocío , Bizcocho Nuria
Published: November 2022

The scientific community has revealed the environmental benefits of recycling construction waste (CW) versus its disposal, and its contribution to circularity. The Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) method enables the environmental impact of CW management to be quantified and facilitates the comparison of recycling versus alternative disposal scenarios. However, due to its complexity, LCA is seldom used by technicians during the design phase, which constitutes a crucial stage in the prevention of environmental impacts. This paper therefore proposes an LCA-based tool, integrated into the Building Information Modelling (BIM) methodology, that helps designers to automate the environmental assessment of recycling versus disposal. The CW-LCA-BIM tool uses impact factors obtained from an LCA model applied to CW and was applied to the structural system of a building in Spain. Up to 99% of the non-hazardous waste was recyclable or reusable. The management of three types of recyclable waste was assessed: concrete (27.2 t), plastics (4.2 t), and steel (1.5 t). Recycling is shown to be the best option since it prevents 1.4 times (14.6 t) the emissions of the disposal scenario and saves 85 times (148.5 GJ) its energy consumption. This tool can be developed in other waste management systems and infrastructures. It can be useful both for designers for the reduction of the environmental impact of their buildings, and for policy managers for waste-prevention policies.