bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carbonated 3D-Printable Polymer Composite for Thermo-Mechanically Stable Applications
Authors: Dawan Fareed , Givens Melvin , Williams Lakeira , Mensah Patrick
Published: June 2022

In this report, we investigate the infusion of carbon dioxide into a 3D-printable photosensitive polymer. The result is a carbonated polymer composite material. In use, polymer composite materials expect to succeed where ordinary polymers and metals fail. This is due to the tailorability of composite materials for specific applications. Usually, micro/nano-particulates are embedded as fillers within a polymer matrix, enhancing the overall material properties. Here, carbon dioxide (CO2) microbubbles serve as the filler within a nylon-like polymer matrix. Additive manufacturing by stereolithography (SLA) of the carbonated polymer composite proved possible using the digital light projection (DLP) 3D printing technique. Post-heat treatment using thermogravimetric analysis of the samples at elevated temperatures resulted in a 33% mass reduction, indicative of nearly complete solvent removal and curing. An initial increase in polymer carbonation duration showed a 16% increase in porosity, more stable thermal profiles, and a 40% decrease in specific heat capacity. Thermo-mechanical compressive tests on an optimal carbonated sample revealed a 70% increase in compressive strength over its neat counterpart and a peak modulus at 50 °C of 60 MPa. Such 3D-printable carbonated polymer composites may find use in applications requiring high strength-to-weight ratio thermally stable polymers and applications requiring a versatile and convenient storage medium for on-demand CO2 deposition or supercritical fluid phase transformation.
Review on Monitoring and Operation-Maintenance Technology of Far-Reaching Sea Smart Wind Farms
Authors: Wang Zhen , Guo Yaohua , Wang Haijun
Published: June 2022

With the rapid development of global offshore wind power, the demand for offshore wind power operation and maintenance is also increasing. This paper analyzes the technology of units, monitoring of deep wind field, and operation and maintenance risks and provides an innovative direction for offshore wind power operation and maintenance. In this study, the innovation of offshore wind power operation and maintenance are discussed in regard to the aspects of operation and maintenance management, the monitoring technology of units and far-reaching wind field monitoring and risks. Combined with information technology and lean management concept, this paper evaluates the development trend and difficulties of data mining and information platforms of offshore wind power operation and maintenance. A far-reaching intelligent operation and maintenance management platform for offshore wind farms is provided and a centralized and intelligent operation and maintenance management mode is explored in order to improve the efficiency and reduce the costs. Through the research on the characteristics of 5G technology, the typical application scenarios of 5G technology in the intelligent operation and maintenance of offshore wind farms are analyzed, which provide a new solution for the efficient operation and maintenance of offshore wind farms.
A Perilipin Affects Lipid Droplet Homeostasis and Aerial Hyphal Growth, but Has Only Small Effects on Virulence in the Insect Pathogenic Fungus Beauveria bassiana
Authors: Wang Xiaoyun , Liu Yu , Keyhani Nemat O. , Zhu Shengan , Wang Jing , Wang Junyao , Jin Dan , Fan Yanhua
Published: June 2022

Lipid assimilation, storage, and turnover impact growth, development, and virulence in many microbial pathogens including fungi. Perilipins are proteins associated with lipid droplets (LDs) that mediate their assembly and turnover. Here, we characterized the Beauveria bassiana (BbPlin1) perilipin. BbPlin1 expression was higher in minimal media than in rich media, and, using a BbPlin1::eGFP fusion protein, the protein was shown to be co–localized to LDs, with the high expression seen during infection and proliferation within the insect (Galleria mellonella) host that dramatically decreased to almost no expression during fungal outgrowth on cadavers including in conidia, but that BbPlin1 production resumed in the conidia once placed in nutrient–containing media allowing for germination and growth. Characterization of a targeted gene deletion strain (ΔBbPlin1) revealed a dramatic (>30%) reduction in cellular LD content, promotion of aerial hyphal growth, and a small decrease in virulence, with little to no effects on vegetative growth and stress responses. However, in the ΔBbPlin1 strain, expression of the complementary LD–associated caleosin gene, BbCal1, was enhanced under nutrient–poor conditions, although no changes in BbPlin1 expression were seen in a ΔBbCal1 strain and the expression of BbPlin1 in the ΔBbCal1 strain did not change LD patterns in cells. Transcriptome and RT–PCR analyses indicated increased expression of lipid metabolism–related genes, including triacylglyercol lipase 3, enoyl–CoA isomerase, and diacylglycerol–O–acetyl transferase in the BbPlin1 deletion mutant. Lipid profile analyses confirmed that the loss of BbPlin1 significantly reduced the cellular levels of contents of triacylglycerol, diacylglycerol, and phosphatidylethanolamine as compared to the wild–type strain. These results demonstrate the involvement of the B. bassiana perilipin in mediating lipid homeostasis, fungal aerial hyphal growth, and virulence, revealing critical cycling from high expression during nutrient utilization within host cadavers to low expression during growth on the surface of the cadaver during the infection process.
Borderland (Narco) Folk Saints and Texas Media
Authors: King Amy J.
Published: June 2022

This study investigates and reflects upon the interpretations of (narco) folk saints on the Texas–Mexico border by analyzing their recent representations in local Texan and national U.S. print media. These articles portray the melding of religion and crime to promote anti-immigration ideas and politics in Texas. To understand the connection between culture and crime on the Texas–Mexico border, this essay first delves into each aspect individually, providing their origins and historical context. An analysis of U.S. and Mexican statistics illustrates that many of the societal issues spurring the creation and devotion of folk saints remain prevalent in borderland culture today, including governmental shortcomings, dissatisfaction with the Church, social conditions, and media prejudice. The ubiquity of these themes in borderland daily life continuously incites more (narco) folk saint devotees, and Texas print media further distort the relationship among religion, culture, and crime until they eventually become inseparably intertwined in popular public opinion.
A Machine Learning Approach to Solve the Network Overload Problem Caused by IoT Devices Spatially Tracked Indoors
Authors: Carvalho Daniel , Sullivan Daniel , Almeida Rafael , Caminha Carlos
Published: June 2022

Currently, there are billions of connected devices, and the Internet of Things (IoT) has boosted these numbers. In the case of private networks, a few hundred devices connected can cause instability and even data loss in communication. In this article, we propose a machine learning-based modeling to solve network overload caused by continuous monitoring of the trajectories of several devices tracked indoors. The proposed modeling was evaluated with over a hundred thousand of coordinate locations of objects tracked in three synthetic environments and one real environment. It has been shown that it is possible to solve the network overload problem by increasing the latency in sending data and predicting intermediate coordinates of the trajectories on the server-side with ensemble models, such as Random Forest, and using Artificial Neural Networks without relevant data loss. It has also been shown that it is possible to predict at least thirty intermediate coordinates of the trajectories of objects tracked with R2 greater than 0.8.
The More the Merrier? Zoo Visitors’ Affective Responses and Perceptions of Welfare across an Increase in Giraffe Density
Authors: Sherman Wilson C. , Minier Darren E. , Meyers Caterina N. , Myers Michelle L.
Published: June 2022

Zoos strive to create experiences that inspire positive feelings toward animals which lead to conservation behaviors in their visitors. However, concerns regarding the welfare of animals living in zoos present a challenge in creating positive zoo experiences and promoting the conservation agenda and moral authority of these cultural institutions. This research explores connections between zoo visitors’ positive affective responses and their assessments of animal welfare before and after two giraffes were introduced to a group of four giraffes in a multi-species savannah exhibit. A self administered questionnaire was completed by 499 visitors to the Conservation Society of California’s Oakland Zoo. The questionnaire measured visitors’ predispositions, affective responses, and assessments of animal welfare. Results suggest that visitors’ assessments of animal welfare, positive affective experience, and predisposition are positively correlated. Further, visitor assessments of animal welfare are generally more positive after the addition of new giraffes. Although visitors tended to report that the giraffes were very healthy and well cared for, they responded less positively when asked about how happy the giraffes were and how adequately sized their exhibit was. The findings suggest that understanding and improving zoo visitors’ assessments of animal welfare is important in improving positive experiences and conservation education outcomes during a visit to the zoo.
Bidirectional Language Contact Effects at the DP Domain: The Case of Greek and Vlach Aromanian Speakers
Authors: Tsimpli Ianthi Maria , Prentza Alexandra , Kaltsa Maria
Published: June 2022

We investigate the effects of the historical language contact of Modern Greek (MG) with Vlach Aromanian (VA) in bilingual speakers of three generations living in Epirus, Greece. We focus on a VA variety spoken in a specific language community, with our study constituting one of the early attempts in this field of research. (1) Background: Given that bilingualism is a dynamic process in which language domains are not uniformly affected by external (i.e., sociolinguistic) factors, the investigation of bidirectional crosslinguistic influence can shed light on the resilience of morphosyntactic and semantic feature changes. MG differs from VA in a number of morphosyntactic properties at the DP domain, namely definiteness marking, positioning the adjective and gender marking. (2) Methods: To examine the language contact effects in VA–MG bilinguals, we elicited spontaneous language production in VA and MG from speakers across three generations with different levels of proficiency in each language. (3) Results: The data analysis showed evidence of bidirectional crosslinguistic influence since (a) MG seems to affect VA in definiteness marking and adjective positioning in younger bilingual groups and (b) VA influences MG in gender marking in older bilinguals. (4) Conclusions: The present study presents original language data from VA–MG bilinguals and provides evidence of bidirectional language contact effects.
Influence of Different Light-Emitting Diode Colors on Growth and Phycobiliprotein Generation of Arthrospira platensis
Authors: Jung Conrad H. G. , Waldeck Peter , Sykora Shadi , Braune Steffen , Petrick Ingolf , Küpper Jan-Heiner , Jung Friedrich
Published: June 2022

Light-emitting diodes (LED) can be utilized as tailorable artificial light sources for the cultivation of cyanobacteria such as Arthrospira platensis (AP). To study the influence of different LED light colors on phototrophic growth and biomass composition, AP was cultured in closed bioreactors and exposed to red, green, blue, or white LED lights. The illumination with red LED light resulted in the highest cell growth and highest cell densities compared to all other light sources (order of cell densities: red > white > green > blue LED light). In contrast, the highest phycocyanin concentrations were found when AP was cultured under blue LED light (e.g., order of concentrations: blue > white > red > green LED light). LED-blue light stimulated the accumulation of nitrogen compounds in the form of phycobiliproteins at the expense of cell growth. The results of the study revealed that exposure to different LED light colors can improve the quality and quantity of the biomass gained in AP cultures.
Analytical Determination of Static Deflection Shape of an Asymmetric Extradosed Cable-Stayed Bridge Using Ritz Method
Authors: Lou Danfeng , Chen Yong , Feng Qian , Cai Jinbiao
Published: June 2022

A practical method to analyze the mechanical behavior of the asymmetric extradosed cable-stayed (AECS) bridge is provided in this paper. The work includes the analysis of the equivalent membrane tension of the cables, the ratio of side-span cable force to middle-span cable force, and the deflection of the main girder subject to uniformly distributed load. The Ritz method is a simple and efficient way to solve composite structures, such as the AECS bridge, compared with the traditional force method, displacement method, or finite element method. The theoretical results obtained from the Ritz method are in good agreement with that from the finite element analysis, which shows the accuracy of this approach. Then, a parametric study of AECS bridges is carried out by using the proposed equations directly, instead of using the traditional finite element modeling process, which requires a lot of modeling work. As a result, reasonable values of very important parameters are suggested, which helps the readers reach a better understanding of the mechanical behavior of AECS bridges. More importantly, it helps the designers to enhance the efficiency in the stage of conceptual design.
Existence of the Limit of Ratios of Consecutive Terms for a Class of Linear Recurrences
Authors: Fiorenza Renato
Published: June 2022

Let (Fn)n=1∞ be the classical Fibonacci sequence. It is well known that the limFn+1/Fn exists and equals the Golden Mean. If, more generally, (Fn)n=1∞ is an order-k linear recurrence with real constant coefficients, i.e., Fn=∑j=1kλk+1−jFn−j with n>k, λj∈R, j=1,…,k, then the existence of the limit of ratios of consecutive terms may fail. In this paper, we show that the limit exists if the first k elements F1,F2,…,Fk of (Fn)n=1∞ are positive, λ1,…,λk−1 are all nonnegative, at least one being positive, and max(λ1,…,λk)=λk≥k. The limit is characterized as fixed point, bounded below by λk and bounded above by λ1+λ2+⋯+λk.
LSTM-Based Broad Learning System for Remaining Useful Life Prediction
Authors: Wang Xiaojia , Huang Ting , Zhu Keyu , Zhao Xibin
Published: June 2022

Prognostics and health management (PHM) are gradually being applied to production management processes as industrial production is gradually undergoing a transformation, turning into intelligent production and leading to increased demands on the reliability of industrial equipment. Remaining useful life (RUL) prediction plays a pivotal role in this process. Accurate prediction results can effectively provide information about the condition of the equipment on which intelligent maintenance can be based, with many methods applied to this task. However, the current problems of inadequate feature extraction and poor correlation between prediction results and data still affect the prediction accuracy. To overcome these obstacles, we constructed a new fusion model that extracts data features based on a broad learning system (BLS) and embeds long short-term memory (LSTM) to process time-series information, named as the B-LSTM. First, the LSTM controls the transmission of information from the data to the gate mechanism, and the retained information generates the mapped features and forms the feature nodes. Then, the random feature nodes are supplemented by an activation function that generates enhancement nodes with greater expressive power, increasing the nonlinear factor in the network, and eventually the feature nodes and enhancement nodes are jointly connected to the output layer. The B-LSTM was experimentally used with the C-MAPSS dataset and the results of comparison with several mainstream methods showed that the new model achieved significant improvements.
Numerical Study of MHD Natural Convection inside a Cubical Cavity Loaded with Copper-Water Nanofluid by Using a Non-Homogeneous Dynamic Mathematical Model
Authors: Sannad Mohamed , Hussein Ahmed Kadhim , Abidi Awatef , Homod Raad Z. , Biswal Uddhaba , Ali Bagh , Kolsi Lioua , Younis Obai
Published: June 2022

Free convective flow in a cubical cavity loaded with copper-water nanofluid was examined numerically by employing a non-homogeneous dynamic model, which is physically more realistic in representing nanofluids than homogenous ones. The cavity was introduced to a horizontal magnetic field from the left sidewall. Both the cavity’s vertical left and right sidewalls are preserved at an isothermal cold temperature (Tc). The cavity includes inside it four isothermal heating blocks in the middle of the top and bottom walls. The other cavity walls are assumed adiabatic. Simulations were performed for solid volume fraction ranging from (0 ≤ ϕ ≤ 0.06), Rayleigh number varied as (103 ≤ Ra ≤ 105), the Hartmann number varied as (0 ≤ Ha ≤ 60), and the diameter of nanoparticle varied as (10 nm ≤ dp ≤ 130 nm). It was found that at (dp = 10 nm), the average Nusselt number declines when Ha increases, whereas it increases as (Ra) and (ϕ) increase. Furthermore, the increasing impact of the magnetic field on the average Nusselt number is absent for (Ra = 103), and this can be seen for all values of (ϕ). However, when (dp) is considered variable, the average Nusselt number was directly proportional to (Ra) and (ϕ) and inversely proportional to (dp).
Free Resolutions and Generalized Hamming Weights of Binary Linear Codes
Authors: García-Marco Ignacio , Márquez-Corbella Irene , Martínez-Moro Edgar , Pitones Yuriko
Published: June 2022

In this work, we explore the relationship between the graded free resolution of some monomial ideals and the Generalized Hamming Weights (GHWs) of binary codes. More precisely, we look for a structure that is smaller than the set of codewords of minimal support that provides us with some information about the GHWs. We prove that the first and second generalized Hamming weights of a binary linear code can be computed (by means of a graded free resolution) from a set of monomials associated with a binomial ideal related with the code. Moreover, the remaining weights are bounded above by the degrees of the syzygies in the resolution.
Efficacy of Quantitative Pupillary Light Reflex for Predicting Neurological Outcomes in Patients Treated with Targeted Temperature Management after Cardiac Arrest: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Kim Jae-Guk , Shin Hyungoo , Lim Tae-Ho , Kim Wonhee , Cho Youngsuk , Jang Bo-Hyoung , Choi Kyu-Sun , Na Min-Kyun , Ahn Chiwon , Lee Juncheol
Published: June 2022

Background and objectives: This study aims to evaluate the usefulness of the quantitative pupillary light reflex as a prognostic tool for neurological outcomes in post-cardiac arrest patients treated with targeted temperature management (TTM). Material and Methods: We systematically searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library (search date: 9 July 2021) for studies on post-cardiac arrest patients treated with TTM that had measured the percent constriction of pupillary light reflex (%PLR) with quantitative pupillometry as well as assessed the neurological outcome. For an assessment of the methodological quality of the included studies, two authors utilized the prognosis study tool independently. Results: A total of 618 patients from four studies were included in this study. Standardized mean differences (SMDs) were calculated to compare patients with good or poor neurological outcomes. A higher %PLR measured at 0–24 h after hospital admission was related to good neurological outcomes at 3 months in post-cardiac arrest patients treated with TTM (SMD 0.87; 95% confidence interval 0.70–1.05; I2 = 0%). A higher %PLR amplitude measured at 24–48 h after hospital admission was also associated with a good neurological outcome at 3 months in post-cardiac arrest patients treated with TTM, but with high heterogeneity (standardized mean difference 0.86; 95% confidence interval 0.40–1.32; I2 = 70%). The evidence supporting these findings was of poor quality. For poor neurological outcome, the prognosis accuracy of %PLR was 9.19 (pooled diagnostic odds ratio, I2 = 0%) and 0.75 (area under the curve). Conclusions: The present meta-analysis could not reveal that change of %PLR was an effective tool in predicting neurological outcomes for post-cardiac arrest patients treated with TTM owing to a paucity of included studies and the poor quality of the evidence.
The Japanese Herbal Medicine Yokukansan Exerted Antioxidant and Analgesic Effects in an Experimental Rat Model of Hunner-Type Interstitial Cystitis
Authors: Inoue Tatsuki , Tsukada Mana , Tsunokawa Yoshiki , Maeda Yoshiko , Fukuoka Seiya , Fukagai Takashi , Ogawa Yoshio , Sunagawa Masataka
Published: June 2022

Background and Objectives: The Japanese herbal medicine Yokukansan (YKS) has analgesic properties and is used for various pain disorders. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of YKS in Hunner-type interstitial cystitis (HIC) using an experimental rat model of HIC and to explore its antioxidant activity and role as the underlying mechanism of action. Materials and Methods: The antioxidant capacity of YKS was evaluated by determining its hydroxyl radical (·OH) scavenging capacity using electron spin resonance (ESR). Next, the effects of YKS administration were explored using a toll-like receptor-7 agonist-induced rat model of HIC. The von Frey test was performed to assess bladder pain. Three days after HIC induction, the bladder was removed, and the expression of oxidative stress parameters in the bladder wall was investigated (reactive oxygen metabolites (ROMs), ·OH, and 8-hydroxy-2’-deoxyguanosine (8-OhdG)). Results: YKS had a ·OH scavenging capacity according to the ESR study. In the von Frey test, a significant decrease in the withdrawal threshold was observed in the HIC group compared with the control group; however, the decrease was ameliorated by the administration of YKS. Oxidative stress parameters showed increasing tendencies (ROMs test and 8-OHdG) or a significant increase (·OH) in the HIC group compared with the control group; however, the increase was significantly suppressed by the administration of YKS. Conclusions: These findings suggest that YKS is effective against HIC and that its antioxidant activity is involved in the mechanism of action.
Carbon Nanotube Enhanced Filtration and Dewatering of Kerosene
Authors: Paul Sumona , Bhoumick Mitun Chandra , Roy Sagar , Mitra Somenath
Published: June 2022

Current approaches to dewatering aviation fuel such as kerosene are adsorption by activated charcoal, gravity separation, etc. The objective of this work is to develop and demonstrate the filtration and dewatering of kerosene using a carbon nanotube immobilised membrane (CNIM). Highly hydrophobic membranes were prepared by immobilising carbon nanotube (CNTs) over polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) microfiltration membrane for the dewatering of ppm level water from kerosene. The effects of different CNT concentrations on membrane morphology, hydrophobicity, porosity, and permeability were characterised. After immobilising CNT into membranes, the contact angle increased by 9%, 16%, and 43% compared to unmodified 0.1 μm PTFE, 0.22 μm PTFE and 0.22 μm PVDF membranes, respectively. The CNIM showed remarkable separation efficiency for the fuel-water system. The micro/nano water droplets coalesced on the CNT surface to form larger diameters of water droplets detached from the membrane surface, leading to enhanced water rejection. In general, the water rejection increased with the amount of CNT immobilised while the effective surface porosity over pore length and flux decreased. PTFE base membrane showed better performance compared to the PVDF substrate. The CNIMs were fabricated with 0.1 and 0.22 μm PTFE at an optimised CNT loading of 3 and 6 wt.%, and the water rejection was 99.97% and 97.27%, respectively, while the kerosene fluxes were 43.22 kg/m2·h and 55.44 kg/m2·h respectively.
Effect of Uniform and Non-Uniform Increasing Casting Flow Rate on Dispersion and Outflow Percentage of Tracers in Four Strand Tundishes under Strand Blockage Conditions
Authors: Fan Jinping , Li Yuqian , Chen Chao , Ouyang Xin , Wang Tianyang , Lin Wanming
Published: June 2022

The flow field, tracer dispersion and uniformity of strands in two designs of four-strand tun-dishes under normal conditions and single-strand blockage conditions are studied by numerical simulation. The casting speed (flow rate) of strands are increasing uniformly or non-uniformly to improve the strand blockage condition. The uniformity of strands of the cases are evaluated by a novel outflow percentage analysis method. The results show that the flow field in the tundish does not change significantly when the single-strand is blocked or the casting flow rate is increased. After blockage of one strand, the consistency of each strand of u-shaped weir tundish is better than that of double-weir tundish. With the uniform increasing of the casting flow rate, the response time of each strand decreases and the outflow percentage increases. However, the uniformity of strands improved slightly in double-weir tundish but decreased in u-shaped tundish. For the double-weir tundish, significantly increasing the casting flow rate of the strand located in the blocked part by a factor of 1.5 and slightly increasing the casting flow rate of the other strands by a factor of 1.25, the consistency of each strand is the best. For the u-shaped weir tundish, the consistency of each strand is improved by non-uniform increasing of the casting flow rate of the strands. The flow rate of the strand located in the blocked part and the other strands is increased by a factor of 1.25, and 1.375 or 1.2 and 1.4 are the optimized cases.
Influence of Oxygen and Zirconium Contents on The Mechanical Properties of Ti-23Nb-0.7Ta-Zr-O Alloys
Authors: Si Kunlun , Wang Xu , Yin Zhaolong , Yang Yi , Wu Songquan , Li Geping , Zhang Kai , Wang Hao , Huang Aijun
Published: June 2022

Ti-23Nb-0.7Ta-(0, 2)Zr-(1.2, 4, 6, 10)O alloys were prepared using a non-consumable arc-melting method. The tensile property of Ti-23Nb-0.7Ta-2Zr-1.2O alloys was tested at temperatures from −196 °C to 750 °C. The influence of O and Zr contents on thermal forgeability, room-temperature hardness and tensile property at 750 °C was investigated. For Ti-23Nb-0.7Ta-2Zr-1.2O alloy, the tensile strength decreased, and the ductility increased with the temperature increase. O and Zr had a negative effect on the thermal forgeability. Room-temperature hardness and tensile strength increased with an increase in O and Zr contents due to interstitial, solid solution strengthening and second-phase strengthening. All of the alloys exhibited high ductility at 750 °C with the total elongation above 34% and reductions in area above 80%.
A Comprehensive Metabolomics Analysis of Fecal Samples from Advanced Adenoma and Colorectal Cancer Patients
Authors: Telleria Oiana , Alboniga Oihane E. , Clos-Garcia Marc , Nafría-Jimenez Beatriz , Cubiella Joaquin , Bujanda Luis , Falcón-Pérez Juan Manuel
Published: June 2022

Accurate diagnosis of colorectal cancer (CRC) still relies on invasive colonoscopy. Noninvasive methods are less sensitive in detecting the disease, particularly in the early stage. In the current work, a metabolomics analysis of fecal samples was carried out by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectroscopy (UPLC-MS/MS). A total of 1380 metabolites were analyzed in a cohort of 120 fecal samples from patients with normal colonoscopy, advanced adenoma (AA) and CRC. Multivariate analysis revealed that metabolic profiles of CRC and AA patients were similar and could be clearly separated from control individuals. Among the 25 significant metabolites, sphingomyelins (SM), lactosylceramides (LacCer), secondary bile acids, polypeptides, formiminoglutamate, heme and cytidine-containing pyrimidines were found to be dysregulated in CRC patients. Supervised random forest (RF) and logistic regression algorithms were employed to build a CRC accurate predicted model consisting of the combination of hemoglobin (Hgb) and bilirubin E,E, lactosyl-N-palmitoyl-sphingosine, glycocholenate sulfate and STLVT with an accuracy, sensitivity and specificity of 91.67% (95% Confidence Interval (CI) 0.7753–0.9825), 0.7 and 1, respectively.
High Throughput Screening of Antimicrobial Resistance Genes in Gram-Negative Seafood Bacteria
Authors: Delannoy Sabine , Hoffer Corine , Youf Raphaëlle , Dauvergne Emilie , Webb Hattie E. , Brauge Thomas , Tran Mai-Lan , Midelet Graziella , Granier Sophie A. , Haenni Marisa , Fach Patrick , Brisabois Anne
Published: June 2022

From a global view of antimicrobial resistance over different sectors, seafood and the marine environment are often considered as potential reservoirs of antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) and mobile genetic elements (MGEs); however, there are few studies and sparse results on this sector. This study aims to provide new data and insights regarding the content of resistance markers in various seafood samples and sources, and therefore the potential exposure to humans in a global One Health approach. An innovative high throughput qPCR screening was developed and validated in order to simultaneously investigate the presence of 41 ARGs and 33 MGEs including plasmid replicons, integrons, and insertion sequences in Gram-negative bacteria. Analysis of 268 seafood isolates from the bacterial microflora of cod (n = 24), shellfish (n = 66), flat fishes (n = 53), shrimp (n = 10), and horse mackerel (n = 115) show the occurrence of sul-1, ant(3″)-Ia, aph(3′)-Ia, strA, strB, dfrA1, qnrA, and blaCTX-M-9 genes in Pseudomonas spp., Providencia spp., Klebsiella spp., Proteus spp., and Shewanella spp. isolates and the presence of MGEs in all bacterial species investigated. We found that the occurrence of MGE may be associated with the seafood type and the environmental, farming, and harvest conditions. Moreover, even if MGE were detected in half of the seafood isolates investigated, association with ARG was only identified for twelve isolates. The results corroborate the hypothesis that the incidence of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria (ARB) and ARG decreases with increasing distance from potential sources of fecal contamination. This unique and original high throughput micro-array designed for the screening of ARG and MGE in Gram-negative bacteria could be easily implementable for monitoring antimicrobial resistance gene markers in diverse contexts.
A Review of the Lunar 182Hf-182W Isotope System Research
Authors: Yang Zhen , Wang Guiqin , Xu Yuming , Zeng Yuling , Zhang Zhaofeng
Published: June 2022

In recent years, the extinct nuclide 182Hf-182W system has been developed as an essential tool to date and trace the lunar origin and evolution. Despite a series of achievements, controversies and problems exist. As a review, this paper details the application principles of the 182Hf-182W isotope system and summarizes the research development on W isotopes of the Moon. A significant radiogenic ε182W excess of 0.24 ± 0.01 was found in the lunar mantle, leading to heated debates. There are three main explanations for the origin of the excess, including (1) radioactive origin; (2) the mantle of the Moon-forming impactor; and (3) disproportional late accretion to the Earth and the Moon. Debates on these explanations have revealed different views on lunar age. The reported ages of the Moon are mainly divided into two views: an early Moon (30–70 Ma after the solar system formation); and a late Moon (>70 Ma after the solar system formation). This paper discusses the possible effects on lunar 182W composition, including the Moon-forming impactor, late veneer, and Oceanus Procellarum-forming projectile. Finally, the unexpected isotopic similarities between the Earth and Moon are discussed.
Magmatic Processes of the Upper Cretaceous Susuma–Nagaho Plutonic Complex, Southwest Japan: Its Role on Crustal Growth and Recycling in Active Continental Margins
Authors: Kodama Shogo , Owada Masaaki , Nagashima Mariko , Kamei Atsushi
Published: June 2022

Magmatic processes in the active continental margins are one of the important issues to understand the evolution of the continental crust. The Cretaceous Susuma–Nagaho plutonic complex, southwest Japan, is situated at the continental arc, and made up of gabbro, quartz diorite to granodiorite, and granite. According to the field occurrence, they are coeval intrusive rocks, and the biotite K–Ar ages of the granodiorite and granite are approximately 93 Ma, corresponding to the period of a magmatic flare-up in southwest Japan. Based on the whole-rock chemical analyses including Sr–Nd isotopic compositions, the granodiorite magma has been formed through fractional crystallization of basaltic magmas, whereas the origin of granite magma involved partial melting of the continental crust. The gabbro contains calcium-rich plagioclase (An > 90) and the presence of early crystallized hornblende, indicating its derivation from a hydrous basaltic magma. Such basaltic magma intruded into the middle to lower crust and supplied the heat energy necessary for crustal partial melting and granitic magma formation. The fractional crystallization and crustal melting took place at the same time, playing an important role in the crustal growth and differentiation during the magmatic flare-up event.
Uncovering the Molecular Basis for the Better Gefitinib Sensitivity of EGFR with Complex Mutations over Single Rare Mutation: Insights from Molecular Simulations
Authors: Li Miaomiao , Li Mengrong , Xie Yanjie , Guo Jingjing
Published: June 2022

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is an intensively focused target for anti-tumor compounds used in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) therapy. Compared to the classical activating mutations, there are still many uncommon EGFR mutations associated with poorer responses to EGFR inhibitors. A detailed understanding of the molecular basis for multiple EGFR mutants exhibiting diverse responses to inhibitors is of critical importance for related drug development. Herein, we explored the molecular determinants contributing to the distinct responses of EGFR with a single rare mutation (G719S) or combined mutations (G719S/L858R and G719S/l861Q) to Gefitinib (IRE). Our results indicated that interactions, formed within the tetrad of residues S768 (in the αC-helix), D770 (in the αC-β4 loop), Y827 (in the αE-helix), and R831 (in the catalytic loop), play an important role in the stability of αC-helix and the maintenance of K745–E762 salt bridge in the absence of IRE, which are weakened in the EGFRG719S system and enhanced in the EGFRG719S/L858R system upon IRE binding. Besides, the introduced hydrogen bonds by the co-occurring mutation partner also contribute to the stability of αC-helix. The work done for inhibitor dissociation suggests that IRE exhibits a stronger binding affinity to EGFRG719S/L858R mutant. Together, these findings provide a deeper understanding of minor mutations, which is essential for drug development targeting EGFR with less common mutations.
Fluorescent Zn(II)-Based Metal-Organic Framework: Interaction with Organic Solvents and CO2 and Methane Capture
Authors: Zavahir Sifani , Ben Yahia Hamdi , Schneider Julian , Han DongSuk , Krupa Igor , Altamash Tausif , Atilhan Mert , Amhamed Abdulkarem , Kasak Peter
Published: June 2022

Adsorption of carbon dioxide (CO2), as well as many other kinds of small molecules, is of importance for industrial and sensing applications. Metal-organic framework (MOF)-based adsorbents are spotlighted for such applications. An essential for MOF adsorbent application is a simple and easy fabrication process, preferably from a cheap, sustainable, and environmentally friendly ligand. Herein, we fabricated a novel structural, thermally stable MOF with fluorescence properties, namely Zn [5-oxo-2,3-dihydro-5H-[1,3]-thiazolo [3,2-a]pyridine-3,7-dicarboxylic acid (TPDCA)] • dimethylformamide (DMF) •0.25 H2O (coded as QUF-001 MOF), in solvothermal conditions by using zinc nitrate as a source of metal ion and TPDCA as a ligand easy accessible from citric acid and cysteine. Single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis and microscopic examination revealed the two-dimensional character of the formed MOF. Upon treatment of QUF-001 with organic solvents (such as methanol, isopropanol, chloroform, dimethylformamide, tetrahydrofuran, hexane), interactions were observed and changes in fluorescence maxima as well as in the powder diffraction patterns were noticed, indicating the inclusion and intercalation of the solvents into the interlamellar space of the crystal structure of QUF-001. Furthermore, CO2 and CH4 molecule sorption properties for QUF-001 reached up to 1.6 mmol/g and 8.1 mmol/g, respectively, at 298 K and a pressure of 50 bars.
Stable-Isotope Dilution GC–MS Measurement of Metformin in Human Serum and Urine after Derivatization with Pentafluoropropionic Anhydride and Its Application in Becker Muscular Dystrophy Patients Administered with Metformin, l-Citrulline, or Their Combination
Authors: Baskal Svetlana , Bollenbach Alexander , Henzi Bettina , Hafner Patricia , Fischer Dirk , Tsikas Dimitrios
Published: June 2022

Metformin (N,N-dimethylguanylguanidine) is one of the most prescribed drugs with pleiotropic, exerted in part by not fully elucidated mechanisms of action. We developed and validated a gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) method for the quantitative analysis of metformin (metformin-d0) in 10-µL aliquots of human serum and urine using N,N-[dimethylo-2H6]guanylguanidine (metformin-d6) as the internal standard. The method involves evaporation of the samples to dryness, derivatization with pentafluoropropionic (PFP) anhydride in ethyl acetate (30 min, 65 °C), and extraction into toluene. The negative-ion chemical ionization GC–MS spectra of the PFP derivatives contain a single intense ion with mass-to-charge (m/z) ratios of m/z 383 for metformin-d0 and m/z 389 for metformin-d6. Our results suggest that all amine/imine groups of metformin-d0 and metformin-d6 are converted to their N,N,N-tripentafluoropropionyl derivatives, which cyclize to form a symmetric triazine derivative, of which the non-ring amine group is amidated. Quantification was performed by selected-ion monitoring (SIM) of m/z 383 and m/z 389. Upon validation, the method was applied to determine serum and urine metformin concentrations in 19 patients with Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD). Serum and urine samples were collected at baseline (Visit I), after six weeks of supplementation (Visit II) with metformin (3 × 500 mg/d; metformin group; n = 10) or l-citrulline (3 × 1500 mg/d; citrulline group; n = 9) followed by a six-week supplementation with 3 × 500 mg/d of metformin plus 3 × 1500 mg/d l-citrulline. At Visit I, the metformin concentration in the serum and urine was very low in both groups. The metformin concentrations in the serum and urine of the patients who first took metformin (MET group) were higher at Visit II and Visit III. The metformin concentration in the serum and urine samples of the patients who first took l-citrulline (CITR group) were higher at Visit III. The serum and urine concentrations of metformin were insignificantly lower in the CITR group at Visit III. The mean fractional excretion (FE) rate of metformin was 307% (Visit II) and 322% (Visit III) in the MET group, and 290% in the CITR group (Visit III). This observation suggests the accumulation of metformin in the kidney and its secretion in the urine. The GC–MS is suitable to measure reliably circulating and excretory metformin in clinical settings.
The Allelopathic Activity of Extracts and Isolated from Spirulina platensis
Authors: Charoenying Patchanee , Laosinwattana Chamroon , Chotsaeng Nawasit
Published: June 2022

We determined the allelopathic effects of crude organic (hexane, ethyl acetate, and methanol) extracts of the cyanobacterial Spirulina platensis on barnyardgrass (Echinochloa crus-galli (L.) Beauv.) and Chinese amaranth (Amaranthus tricolor L.). The crude ethyl acetate extract showed the highest inhibitory activity and was subsequently fractionated by column chromatography into 23 fractions based on thin-layer chromatography band pattern similarities. Four concentrations (2000, 1000, 500, and 250 ppm) of each fraction were tested for their allelopathic activity. Fractions E6 and E13 exhibited the most significant inhibitory effects against Chinese amaranth. The constituents of the highly active E6F3-E6F5 fractions determined by GC-MS, chromatography, and spectroscopy included the fatty acids, γ-linolenic acid 15, oleic acid 12, and predominantly palmitic acid 7; minor constituents included 2-ethyl-3-methylmaleimide 9 and C11 norisoprenoids (dihydroactinidiolide 10 and 4-oxo-β-ionone 13). Isolation of E13 fraction by column chromatography revealed four C13 norisoprenoids: 3-hydroxy-β-ionone 17, 3-hydroxy-5α,6α-epoxy-β-ionone 18, 3-hydroxy-5β,6β-epoxy-β-ionone 19, and loliolide 20. Their structures were elucidated by NMR spectroscopy. All six isolated norisoprenoids inhibited seed germination and seedling growth of Chinese amaranth at concentrations of 250–1000 ppm. Allelochemicals from S. platensis could be utilized in the development of novel bioactive herbicides.
Equine Oviductal Organoid Generation and Cryopreservation
Authors: Thompson Riley E. , Meyers Mindy A. , Veeramachaneni D. N. Rao , Pukazhenthi Budhan S. , Hollinshead Fiona K.
Published: June 2022

Organoids are a type of three-dimensional (3D) cell culture that more closely mimic the in vivo environment and can be maintained in the long term. To date, oviductal organoids have only been reported in laboratory mice, women, and cattle. Equine oviductal organoids were generated and cultured for 42 days (including 3 passages and freeze–thawing at passage 1). Consistent with the reports in mouse and human oviductal organoids, the equine oviductal organoids revealed round cell clusters with a central lumen. Developing a 3D model of the mare oviduct may allow for an increased understanding of their normal physiology, including hormonal regulation. These organoids may provide an environment that mimics the in vivo equine oviduct and facilitate improved in vitro embryo production in equids.
Femtosecond Pulsed Fiber Laser Based on Graphdiyne-Modified Tapered Fiber
Authors: Wu Qing , Chen Si , Bao Wenli , Wu Haibin
Published: June 2022

We report the application of saturable absorbers prepared from graphdiyne-modified tapered fibers to an erbium-doped fiber laser to achieve a femtosecond pulse output. Graphdiyne quantum dots are successfully prepared by the Glaser–Hay method. The graphdiyne-based all-fiber saturable absorber device exhibited strongly saturable absorption characteristics with a modulation depth of 18.06% and a saturation intensity of 103.5 W. The net dispersion of the erbium-doped fiber laser cavity is ~0.016 ps2, and a femtosecond pulse output with a bandwidth of 26.3 nm, a pulse width of 135.8 fs, and a single pulse capability of 54 pJ is obtained. This work lays the foundation for the application of the nonlinear optical material, graphdiyne, in ultrafast photonics.
Superconducting- and Graphene-Based Devices
Authors: Giubileo Filippo
Published: June 2022

This Special Issue has been organized to collect new or improved ideas regarding the exploitation of superconducting materials, as well as graphene, aiming to develop innovative devices [...]
Electrically Tunable Solution-Processed Transparent Conductive Thin Films Based on Colloidally Dispersed ITO@Ag Composite Ink
Authors: Cha Yoo Lim , Jo Jeong-Hye , Kim Dong-Joo , Kim Sun Hee
Published: June 2022

Silver (Ag) introduced colloidal Sn-doped In2O3 (ITO) ink for transparent conductive electrodes (TCEs) was prepared to overcome the limitation of colloidally prepared thin film; low density thin film, high resistance. ITO@Ag colloid ink was made by controlling the weight ratio of ITO and Ag nanoparticles through ball-milling and fabricated using spin coating. These films were dried at 220 °C and heat-treated at 450–750 °C in an air atmosphere to pyrolyze the organic ligand attached to the nanoparticles. All thin films showed high crystallinity. As the thermal treatment temperature increased, films showed a cracked surface, but as the weight percentage of silver increased, a flattened and smooth surface appeared, caused by the metallic silver filling the gap between the nano-particles. This worked as a bridge to allow electrical conduction, which decreases the resistivity over an order of magnitude, from 309 to 0.396, and 0.107 Ω·cm for the ITO-220 °C, ITO-750 °C, and ITO@Ag (7.5 wt.%)-750 °C, respectively. These films also exhibited >90% optical transparency. Lowered resistivity is caused due to the inclusion of silver, providing a sufficient number of charge carriers. Furthermore, the work function difference between ITO and silver builds an ohmic junction, allowing fluent electrical flow without any barrier.
Gallium Oxide Nanostructures: A Review of Synthesis, Properties and Applications
Authors: Jamwal Nishant Singh , Kiani Amirkianoosh
Published: June 2022

Gallium oxide, as an emerging semiconductor, has attracted a lot of attention among researchers due to its high band gap (4.8 eV) and a high critical field with the value of 8 MV/cm. This paper presents a review on different chemical and physical techniques for synthesis of nanostructured β-gallium oxide, as well as its properties and applications. The polymorphs of Ga2O3 are highlighted and discussed along with their transformation state to β-Ga2O3. Different processes of synthesis of thin films, nanostructures and bulk gallium oxide are reviewed. The electrical and optical properties of β-gallium oxide are also highlighted, based on the synthesis methods, and the techniques for tuning its optical and electrical properties compared. Based on this information, the current, and the possible future, applications for β-Ga2O3 nanostructures are discussed.
Facile Synthesis of 4,4′-biphenyl Dicarboxylic Acid-Based Nickel Metal Organic Frameworks with a Tunable Pore Size towards High-Performance Supercapacitors
Authors: Zhang Wenlei , Yin Hongwei , Yu Zhichao , Jia Xiaoxia , Liang Jianguo , Li Gang , Li Yan , Wang Kaiying
Published: June 2022

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have attracted significant research interest for supercapacitor applications due to their high-tunable conductivity and their structure’s pore size. In this work, we report a facile one-step hydrothermal method to synthesize nickel-based metal-organic frameworks (MOF) using organic linker 4,4′-biphenyl dicarboxylic acid (BPDC) for high-performance supercapacitors. The pore size of the Ni-BPDC-MOF nanostructure is tuned through different synthesization temperatures. Among them, the sample synthesized at 180 °C exhibits a nanoplate morphology with a specific surface area of 311.99 m2·g−1, a pore size distribution of 1–40 nm and an average diameter of ~29.2 nm. A high specific capacitance of 488 F·g−1 has been obtained at a current density of 1.0 A·g−1 in a 3 M KOH aqueous electrolyte. The electrode shows reliable cycling stability, with 85% retention after 2000 cycles. The hydrothermal process Ni-BPDC-MOF may provide a simple and efficient method to synthesize high-performance hybrid MOF composites for future electrochemical energy storage applications.