bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Highly Troglomorphic New Genus of Sminthuridae (Collembola, Symphypleona) from the Brazilian Semiarid Region
Authors: de Souza Paolla Gabryelle Cavalcante , Medeiros Gleyce da Silva , Ferreira Rodrigo Lopes , Souza-Silva Marconi , Bellini Bruno Cavalcante
Published: July 2022

Here, we describe the highly troglomorphic Troglobentosminthurus gen. nov. from Água Clara cave system, Caatinga domain, Bahia, Brazil. Troglobentosminthurus luridus gen. nov. sp. nov. has remarkably long antennae, legs and furca, and lacks body pigments, except for small orange eye patches which also show a reduction in the number of eyes (5 + 5) and lens sizes. The overall morphology of the genus, with long and highly sub-segmented antennae, resembles other Sminthurinae of the Temeritas-group, especially Temeritas Richards and Galeriella Ćurčić and Lučić. However, it is unique, especially in the combination of the number of antennae IV subsegments and eyes, frontal head chaetotaxy and empodial complex morphology. Two type specimens have remnants of a mite and another specimen from the new species in their gut contents, supporting the species may be occasional predators and even cannibals. We also provide identification keys and comparative tables to the subfamilies of Sminthuridae and the Temeritas-group of genera.
Effectiveness of Golimumab as Second Anti-TNFα Drug in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis and Axial Spondyloarthritis in Italy: GO-BEYOND, a Prospective Real-World Observational Study
Authors: D’Angelo Salvatore , Tirri Enrico , Giardino Angela Maria , Mattucci-Cerinic Marco , Dagna Lorenzo , Santo Leonardo , Ciccia Francesco , Frediani Bruno , Govoni Marcello , Bobbio Pallavicini Francesca , Grembiale Rosa Daniela , Delle Sedie Andrea , Mulè Rita , Cantatore Francesco Paolo , Foti Rosario , Gremese Elisa , Conigliaro Paola , Salaffi Fausto , Viapiana Ombretta , Cauli Alberto , Giacomelli Roberto , Arcarese Luisa , Guggino Giuliana , Russo Romualdo , Puenpatom Amy , Capocotta Domenico , Nacci Francesca , Anelli Maria Grazia , Picerno Valentina , Binetti Corrado , Iannone Florenzo
Published: July 2022

In this prospective observational study, data were collected from 34 rheumatology clinics in Italy in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) who started golimumab (GLM) as a second anti-TNFα drug. The primary objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of GLM after 6 months. Changes in quality of life using the EQ-5D-5L were also assessed. A total of 194 patients aged 53.2 ± 12 years started GLM as a second anti-TNF drug: 39 (20.1%) with RA, 91 (46.9%) with PsA and 64 (32.9%) with axSpA. After 6 months of GLM treatment, 68% of RA patients achieved low disease activity (LDA; DAS28-CRP ≤ 3.2), 31.9% of PsA patients achieved minimal disease activity and 32.5% of axSpA patients achieved LDA (ASDAS-CRP < 2.1). Good/moderate EULAR response was achieved in 61.9% and 73.8% of patients with RA and PsA, respectively, and 16% of axSpA patients achieved a 50% improvement in BASDAI. Across all indications, improvements in disease activity measures and EQ-5D-5L domains were observed over 6 months. The main reasons for GLM interruption were lack/loss of efficacy (7.2%) or adverse events (2%). This study confirms the effectiveness of GLM as a second-line anti-TNF for the treatment of RA, PsA and axSpA in a real-world setting in Italy.
Inflammatory Indexes as Prognostic Factors of Survival in Geriatric Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Case Control Study of Eight Slovak Centers
Authors: Safcak Dominik , Drazilova Sylvia , Gazda Jakub , Andrasina Igor , Adamcova-Selcanova Svetlana , Balazova Lea , Barila Radovan , Mego Michal , Rac Marek , Skladany Lubomir , Zigrai Miroslav , Janicko Martin , Jarcuska Peter
Published: July 2022

Background and Aims: Hepatocellular cancer (HCC) often occurs in geriatric patients. The aim of our study was to compare overall survival and progression-free survival between geriatric patients (>75 years) and patients younger than 75 years and to identify predictive factors of survival in geriatric patients with HCC. Material and Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of patients with HCC diagnosed in Slovakia between 2010–2016. Cases (HCC patients ≥75 years) were matched to controls (HCC patients <74 years) based on the propensity score (gender, BCLC stage and the first-line treatment). Results: We included 148 patients (84 men, 57%) with HCC. There were no differences between cases and controls in the baseline characteristics. The overall survival in geriatric patients with HCC was comparable to younger controls (p = 0.42). The one-, two-, and three-year overall survival was 42% and 31%, 19% and 12%, and 12% and 9% in geriatric patients and controls, respectively (p = 0.2, 0.4, 0.8). Similarly, there was no difference in the one- and two-year progression-free survival: 28% and 18% vs. 10% and 7% in geriatric HCC patients and controls, respectively (p = 0.2, 1, -). There was no case–control difference between geriatric HCC patients and younger HCC controls in the overall survival in the subpopulation of patients with no known comorbidities (p = 0.5), one and two comorbidities (p = 0.49), and three or more comorbidities (p = 0.39). Log (CRP), log (NLR), log (PLR), and log (SII) were all associated with the three-year survival in geriatric HCC patients in simple logistic regression analyses. However, this time, only log (NLR) remained associated even after controlling for the age and BCLC confounding (OR 5.32, 95% CI 1.43–28.85). Conclusions. We found no differences in overall survival and progression-free survival between older and younger HCC patients. Parameters of subclinical inflammation predict prognosis in geriatric patients with HCC. A limitation of the study is small number of the treated patients; therefore, further investigation is warranted.
Inflammatory Response, Immunosuppression and Arginase Activity after Cardiac Surgery Using Cardiopulmonary Bypass
Authors: Rodríguez-López José María , Iglesias-González José Luis , Lozano-Sánchez Francisco Santiago , Palomero-Rodríguez Miguel Ángel , Sánchez-Conde Pilar
Published: July 2022

Background: Major surgeries suppress patients’ cellular immunity for several days, but the mechanisms underlying this T-cell dysfunction are not well understood. A decreased L-Arginine (L-Arg) level may inhibit T-cell function. Arginase 1 (Arg 1) is induced after traumatic injury, leading to molecular changes in T cells, including decreased expression of cell surface T-cell receptors (TCRs) and a loss in CD3ζ chain expression. In this study, we examined the temporal patterns of CD3ζ expression and Arg 1 activity in patients undergoing cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Methods: We determined the CD3ζ chain expression; the Arg 1 activity; and the leukocyte, neutrophil and lymphocyte levels of patients on the day before surgery and at 24, 48 and 72 h after surgery. Results: Fifty adult patients scheduled for elective cardiac surgery with CPB were eligible for enrolment. Arginase activity was significantly increased between the day before surgery and at 24, 48 and 72 h after surgery (p < 0.01), and CD3ζ expression was significantly decreased between the day before surgery and at 24, 48 and 72 h after surgery (p < 0.001). We observed significant leukocytosis, neutrophilia and lymphopenia after surgery. Conclusions: The decreased CD3ζ chain expression could be due to the increased Arg 1 activity secondary to the activation of neutrophils in cardiac surgery under CPB. These findings could explain the limited immune-system-mediated organ damage resulting from systemic inflammatory response to major cardiac surgery with CPB.
Quantification of Sub-Pixel Dynamics in High-Speed Neutron Imaging
Authors: Wissink Martin L. , Toops Todd J. , Splitter Derek A. , Nafziger Eric J. , Finney Charles E. A. , Bilheux Hassina Z. , Santodonato Louis J. , Zhang Yuxuan
Published: July 2022

The high penetration depth of neutrons through many metals and other common materials makes neutron imaging an attractive method for non-destructively probing the internal structure and dynamics of objects or systems that may not be accessible by conventional means, such as X-ray or optical imaging. While neutron imaging has been demonstrated to achieve a spatial resolution below 10 μm and temporal resolution below 10 μs, the relatively low flux of neutron sources and the limitations of existing neutron detectors have, until now, dictated that these cannot be achieved simultaneously, which substantially restricts the applicability of neutron imaging to many fields of research that could otherwise benefit from its unique capabilities. In this work, we present an attenuation modeling approach to the quantification of sub-pixel dynamics in cyclic ensemble neutron image sequences of an automotive gasoline direct injector at a 5 μs time scale with a spatial noise floor in the order of 5 μm.
Development History of the Numerical Simulation of Tides in the East Asian Marginal Seas: An Overview
Authors: Wei Zexun , Pan Haidong , Xu Tengfei , Wang Yonggang , Wang Jian
Published: July 2022

As a ubiquitous movement in the ocean, tides are vital for marine life and numerous marine activities such as fishing and ocean engineering. Tidal dynamics are complicated in the East Asian marginal seas (EAMS) due to changing complex topography and coastlines related to human activities (e.g., land reclamation and channel deepening) and natural variability (e.g., seasonal variations of ocean stratification and river flow). As an important tool, numerical models are widely used because they can provide basin-scale patterns of tidal dynamics compared to point-based tide gauges. This paper aims to overview the development history of the numerical simulation of tides in the EAMS, including the Bohai Sea, the Yellow Sea, the East China Sea, the East/Japan Sea, and the South China Sea, provide comprehensive understanding of tidal dynamics, and address contemporary research challenges. The basic features of major tidal constituents obtained by tidal models are reviewed, and the progress in the inversion of spatially and temporally changing model parameters via the adjoint method are presented. We review numerical research on how a changing ocean environment induces tidal evolution and how tides and tidal mixing influence ocean environment in turn. The generation, propagation, and dissipation of internal tides in the EAMS are also reviewed. Although remarkable progresses in tidal dynamics have been made, nonstationary tidal variations are not fully explained yet, and further efforts are needed. In addition, tidal influences on ocean environment still receive limited attention, which deserves special attention.
Simulation Study on the Performance and Emission Parameters of a Marine Diesel Engine
Authors: Xin Rongbin , Zhai Jinguo , Liao Chang , Wang Zongyu , Zhang Jifeng , Bazari Zabihollah , Ji Yulong
Published: July 2022

Development of intelligent ships requires marine diesel engine simulation models of high accuracy and fast response. In addition, with advent of tighter shipping air emissions regulations, such models are required to have emission prediction capabilities. In this article, such a model was developed and validated for a 30,000-ton bulk carrier main engine using MATLAB/Simulink. The simulation is based on mean value model, which predicts both the steady-state and dynamic performance of the engine. The results show that the steady-state performance parameters of the main engine are predicted within 2.2% error, and the exhaust emissions parameters are predicted within 7% error as compared to the bench test data from the engine manufacturer. The Maximum Continuous Rating (MCR) points at 100%, 75%, 50% and 25% of the E3 duty cycle were investigated with emphasis according to the diesel propulsion characteristics. In dynamic simulation, it is found that the compressor pressure fluctuation is greater than that of the exhaust pressure with the load variation. Furthermore, the compressor and the exhaust pipe have a similar temperature drop value (about 60 K) when the engine load changes from 100% to 50% MCR, and the exhaust pipe temperature fluctuation is more significant when the load varies from 50% to 25% MCR. The above results show the model’s good transient capability in simulating the dynamic characteristics of the engine. This model can be used especially for the development and control of marine diesel engines in intelligent ships as well as training-oriented marine engine and ship simulators.
Quantitative Assessment of Road Performance of Recycled Asphalt Mixtures Incorporated with Steel Slag
Authors: Wang Zipeng , Wu Shaopeng , Yang Chao , Xie Jun , Xiao Yongli , Zhao Zenggang , Wang Fusong , Zhang Lei
Published: July 2022

Circular utilization of reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) has received extensive attention for its economic and environmental benefits. The application of recycled asphalt mixtures (RAM) in the upper layer of asphalt pavement faces the issue of inferior anti-slip performance and durability. This study aims to recycle steel slag as virgin aggregates in RAM and quantitatively evaluate the service performance of RAM with steel slag. Steel slag and basalt RAM were firstly fabricated and the five different RAP contents were involved. Then tests of Marshall stability, indirect tensile strength and Cantabro spatter loss were conducted to investigate the moisture susceptibility of RAM. Moreover, their high temperature stability, crack resistance and skid resistance were characterized. Indirect tensile fatigue test combined with Hamburg wheel tracking test were carried out to discuss the durability of RAM. The comprehensive performance of RAM with steel slag were quantitatively assessed based on an improved radar chart evaluation method. The results show that involving steel slag reveals a remarkable enhancement function on water stability, high and low temperature performance, skid resistance and fatigue resistance of RAM. Steel slag RAM with 50% RAP content demonstrates a rutting depth of 7.60 mm and a creep slope of 2.54 × 10−4, indicating its superior durability in high temperature and water environment. Compared with the comprehensive evaluation function of 0.5336 for basalt RAM with 30% RAP dosage, steel slag RAM reaches 0.7801, which represents its preferable road performance.
Time-Resolved cw Thermal Z-scan for Nanoparticles Scattering Evaluation in Liquid Suspension
Authors: Cassagne Christophe , Ba Oumar , Boudebs Georges
Published: July 2022

The thermal lens effect is analyzed as a time-resolved Z-scan measurement using cw-single Gaussian beam configuration. The main characteristics of the measurement method are determined. We focus on the evaluation of the measurement error from statistical calculations to also check the linearity of the response and the way to extract the thermo-optical characteristics of absorbing liquids. The results are also applied to demonstrate the feasibility of absorption and scattering efficiencies determination on gold nanoparticles of 5 and 50 nm diameters.
Clinical Evidence on a Novel Macrohybrid Design Dental Implant with 12° Angled Platform: A Systematic Review
Authors: Galve-Huertas Andrea , Zilleruelo-Pozo Maria José , García-González Susana , Ortíz-Puigpelat Octavi , Hernández-Alfaro Federico , Aboul-Hosn Centenero Samir
Published: July 2022

Background: Immediate implant placement with immediate esthetics has become a more common procedure over time, though ensuring good emergence of the axis of the implant has been a challenge. A novel macroimplant design with an angled platform (Co-Axis®) has been developed to ensure exit of the head of the implant in the correct prosthetic position. A systematic literature review was carried to determine the survival rate and marginal bone loss associated with these implants. Material and Methods: An electronic and manual literature search was made in accordance with the PRISMA statement. The search strategy was limited to human studies, retrospective and prospective clinical trials, cross-sectional studies, and cohort studies reporting outcomes of a novel macrohybrid implant with a 12° angled implant connection. Results: Three articles met the inclusion criteria and were reviewed in the analysis. The estimated success rate was 95.9%. The global marginal bone loss was estimated to be −0.17 ± 0.58 mm in an environment characterized by great heterogeneity (I2 = 99%). The estimated mean implant stability was 69.6 ± 0.92 (ISQ). As only two studies provided the required information, it was not possible to determine publication bias. Lastly, mean recession was estimated to be practically zero (0.06 ± 0.23 mm), with great heterogeneity. Conclusions: Within the limitations of this systematic review, it can be affirmed that immediate implant treatment with Co-Axis® implants shows a survival rate of 95.9% at one year of follow-up, with low marginal bone loss values, near-zero soft tissue recession, and favorable papilla index values. Nevertheless, the great heterogeneity of the data requires the findings to be interpreted with caution.
Nonconventional 1,8-Diazafluoren-9-One Aggregates for Green Light Enhancement in Hybrid Biocompatible Media
Authors: Lewkowicz Aneta , Pierpaoli Mattia , Walczewska-Szewc Katarzyna , Czarnomska Martyna , Bojarski Piotr , Bogdanowicz Robert , Pogorzelski Stanisław , Kułak Leszek , Karczewski Jakub
Published: July 2022

Organic aggregates currently play a prominent role, mainly for their unique optoelectronic properties in the aggregated state. Such properties can be related to the aggregates’ structure and the molecular packing mode. In the literature, we have well-established models of H and J aggregates defined based on the molecular exciton model. However, unconventional aggregates, the most unrecognized forms, have been generating interest among researchers recently. Within unconventional aggregation, aggregation-induced emission systems (AIE) are considered. In the present work, we discuss the effect of the forming of unconventional aggregation together with the change in dye concentration on the surface energy characteristics of the materials. All materials were prepared as hybrid biocompatible thin films where the matrix is TiO2 or TiO2/carbon nanowalls (CNWs) with the incorporated dye in the form of 1,8-diazafluoren-9-one (DFO). Using the time-resolved emission spectra and the determination of surface parameters from contact angle measurements, we indicated the correlation between the changes in such parameters and the concentration of DFO dye in two types of TiO2 and TiO2/CNW structures. To examine the propensity of DFO for aggregation, the internal energy of the dye was assessed in several aggregate structures using Quantum chemistry calculations. The results emphasize that DFO is an attractive structure in the design of new fluorophores due to its low molecular weight, the presence of a nitrogen atom that provides good coordination properties, and the ability to form hydrogen bonds. Our studies show that when using suitable matrices, i.e., rigid media, it forms the preferred forms of aggregates in the excited state, characterized by high emission efficiency in the band maximum of around 550 nm.
Low-Loss Dual-Band Transparency Metamaterial with Toroidal Dipole
Authors: Xiang Tianyu , Lei Tao , Chen Ting , Shen Zhaoyang , Zhang Jing
Published: July 2022

In this paper, a low-loss toroidal dipole metamaterial composed of four metal split ring resonators is proposed and verified at microwave range. Dual-band Fano resonances could be excited by normal incident electromagnetic waves at 6 GHz and 7.23 GHz. Analysis of the current distribution at the resonance frequency and the scattered power of multipoles shows that both Fano resonances derive from the predominant novel toroidal dipole. The simulation results exhibit that the sensitivity to refractive index of the analyte is 1.56 GHz/RIU and 1.8 GHz/RIU. Meanwhile, the group delay at two Fano peaks can reach to 11.38 ns and 12.85 ns, which means the presented toroidal metamaterial has significant slow light effects. The proposed dual-band toroidal dipole metamaterial may offer a new path for designing ultra-sensitive sensors, filters, modulators, slow light devices, and so on.
Influence of the AlSi7Mg0.6 Aluminium Alloy Powder Reuse on the Quality and Mechanical Properties of LPBF Samples
Authors: Smolina Irina , Gruber Konrad , Pawlak Andrzej , Ziółkowski Grzegorz , Grochowska Emilia , Schob Daniela , Kobiela Karol , Roszak Robert , Ziegenhorn Matthias , Kurzynowski Tomasz
Published: July 2022

Additive manufacturing (AM) is dynamically developing and finding applications in different industries. The quality of input material is a part of the process and of the final product quality. That is why understanding the influence of powder reuse on the properties of bulk specimens is crucial for ensuring the repeatable AM process chain. The presented study investigated the possibility of continuous reuse of AlSi7Mg0.6 powder in the laser powder bed fusion process (LPBF). To date, there is no study of AlSi7Mg0.6 powder reuse in the LPBF process to be found in the literature. This study aims to respond to this gap. The five batches of AlSi7Mg0.6 powder and five bulk LPBF samples series were characterised using different techniques. The following characteristics of powders were analysed: the powder size distribution (PSD), the morphology (scanning electron microscopy—SEM), the flowability (rotating drum analysis), and laser light absorption (spectrophotometry). Bulk samples were characterised for microstructure (SEM), chemical composition (X-ray fluorescence spectrometry—XRF), porosity (computed tomography—CT) and mechanical properties (tensile, hardness). The powder was reused in subsequent processes without adding (recycling/rejuvenation) virgin powder (collective ageing powder reuse strategy). All tested powders (powders P0–P4) and bulk samples (series S0–S3) show repeatable properties, with changes observed within error limits. Samples manufactured within the fifth reuse cycle (series S4) showed some mean value changes of measured characteristics indicating initial degradation. However, these changes also mostly fit within error limits. Therefore, the collective ageing powder reuse strategy is considered to give repeatable LPBF process results and is recommended for the AlSi7Mg0.6 alloy within at least five consecutive LPBF processes.
Theoretical Bounds on the Number of Tests in Noisy Threshold Group Testing Frameworks
Authors: Seong Jin-Taek
Published: July 2022

We consider a variant of group testing (GT) models called noisy threshold group testing (NTGT), in which when there is more than one defective sample in a pool, its test result is positive. We deal with a variant model of GT where, as in the diagnosis of COVID-19 infection, if the virus concentration does not reach a threshold, not only do false positives and false negatives occur, but also unexpected measurement noise can reverse a correct result over the threshold to become incorrect. We aim to determine how many tests are needed to reconstruct a small set of defective samples in this kind of NTGT problem. To this end, we find the necessary and sufficient conditions for the number of tests required in order to reconstruct all defective samples. First, Fano’s inequality was used to derive a lower bound on the number of tests needed to meet the necessary condition. Second, an upper bound was found using a MAP decoding method that leads to giving the sufficient condition for reconstructing defective samples in the NTGT problem. As a result, we show that the necessary and sufficient conditions for the successful reconstruction of defective samples in NTGT coincide with each other. In addition, we show a trade-off between the defective rate of the samples and the density of the group matrix which is then used to construct an optimal NTGT framework.
Effect of Microstructure on Mechanical Properties of 2519A Aluminum Alloy in Thickness Direction
Authors: Hu Qiang , Liu Wenhui , Tang Changping , Zhao Chenbing , Xiao Mingyue , Song Yufeng
Published: July 2022

2519A aluminum alloy thick plate is a promising structural material in the field of military industries, owing to its low density, high tensile strength and excellent ballistic performance. However, the nonuniformly distributed microstructure along the thickness direction of this alloy leads to delamination cracks, which restrict its further application in light armor fields. In order to understand the mechanism of delamination cracking along the thickness direction, the effect of the microstructure on the mechanical properties of 2519A aluminum alloy in the thickness direction was investigated. The results show that the elongation and critical stress intensity factor values (ΔKcr) of the alloy in the thickness direction are 45.8% and 44.1% lower than the values in the rolling direction, respectively. The low mechanical properties of the alloy may be due to the short distance between the second phase, the weak binding force of grain boundaries and the disharmonious deformation caused by the inhomogeneous distribution of the microstructure. This study provides a basis for improving the mechanical properties and delamination cracking of the alloy along the thickness direction.
Comparison of the Diagnostic Performance of Steatosis Indices for Discrimination of CT-Diagnosed Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Han A. Lum , Lee Hee Kyung
Published: July 2022

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) was redefined as metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) in 2020. Due to this, further validation of the non-invasive tests used in NAFLD diagnosis is required for MAFLD. There are five known steatosis indices for computed tomography (CT)-diagnosed MAFLD. These indices include the fatty liver index (FLI), the hepatic steatosis index (HSI), the lipid accumulation product (LAP), the visceral adiposity index (VAI), and the Zhejiang University index (ZJU). We aimed to analyze the diagnostic abilities of these five widely known steatosis indices for CT-diagnosed MAFLD. From March 2012 to October 2019, we retrospectively analyzed the clinical information and images of 1300 adults aged ≥19 years who underwent CT scans at our institution. To compare differences, the Chi-square test and independent t-test were used for categorical and continuous variables, respectively. The area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) curve was used to validate the diagnostic accuracy of MAFLD. Of the five indices, FLI was the best at predicting MAFLD, with the highest AUROC (0.791). The sensitivity and specificity of FLI for diagnosing MAFLD were both 70.9%. The optimal cut-off value was 29.9. FLI is a useful surrogate index for screening MAFLD in clinical practice.
Enhanced Deep Ultraviolet Photoresponse in Ga doped ZnMgO Thin Film
Authors: Ye Mao , Wang Dongbo , Jiao Shujie , Chen Lang
Published: July 2022

High Mg content (60%) ZnMgO samples with and without Ga dope were grown by an RF magnetron sputtering system. The effect of Ga dope on the ZnMgO sample and the respective ultraviolet photodetectors (UVPD) device’s performance were carefully studied by various experimental methods. The investigations of the structure and optical properties of the ZnMgO sample established that the Ga doped sample has a better crystal quality and larger band gap (5.54 eV). The current-voltage characteristics indicate that both the photocurrent and dark current were enhanced after Ga dope. Under 12 V bias, the undoped UVPD show two spectral response peaks at 244 nm and 271 nm with a responsivity of 1.9 A/W and 0.38 A/W, respectively. While the Ga doped UVPD showed only one response peak at 241 nm and the deep UV responsibility up to 8.9 A/W;, as the bias increased from 12 V to 60 V, the responsiveness raised to 52 A/W, with a signal to noise ratio (241 nm/700 nm) as high as 105. Combining the results of XRD, PL spectrum and XPS, the enhanced ultraviolet photoresponse of the Ga dope device contributed to improving the crystal quality and “dopant-defect pairing effect” caused by Ga doping, which led to a considerable reduction in the number of ionized impurities in the scatting centers, and enhanced the carrier’s mobility. Our work demonstrates that even a high Mg content ZnMgO can exhibit enhanced UV performance after a Ga dope due to the dopant-defect pairing effect, which confirmed the advantage of the use of ZnMgO in the deep-UV region.
Mycobacterium abscessus: It’s Complex
Authors: Abdelaal Hazem F. M. , Chan Edward D. , Young Lisa , Baldwin Susan L. , Coler Rhea N.
Published: July 2022

Mycobacterium abscessus (M. abscessus) is an opportunistic pathogen usually colonizing abnormal lung airways and is often seen in patients with cystic fibrosis. Currently, there is no vaccine available for M. abscessus in clinical development. The treatment of M. abscessus-related pulmonary diseases is peculiar due to intrinsic resistance to several commonly used antibiotics. The development of either prophylactic or therapeutic interventions for M. abscessus pulmonary infections is hindered by the absence of an adequate experimental animal model. In this review, we outline the critical elements related to M. abscessus virulence mechanisms, host–pathogen interactions, and treatment challenges associated with M. abscessus pulmonary infections. The challenges of effectively combating this pathogen include developing appropriate preclinical animal models of infection, developing proper diagnostics, and designing novel strategies for treating drug-resistant M. abscessus.
Yeast Diversity during Spontaneous Fermentations and Oenological Characterisation of Indigenous Saccharomyces cerevisiae for Potential as Wine Starter Cultures
Authors: Chen Yu , Jiang Jiao , Song Yaoyao , Zang Xiaomin , Wang Guoping , Pei Yingfang , Song Yuyang , Qin Yi , Liu Yanlin
Published: July 2022

Diversity of regional yeast can be influenced by geography, grape cultivars and the use of SO2, but at single vineyard scale in China, the impact of these factors on yeast population, particularly Saccharomyces cerevisiae, is not well studied. Here, we characterised yeast species and dynamics during spontaneous fermentations with/without SO2 using eight typical grape cultivars from Yuma vineyard in Ningxia wine region of China. Results show that distribution and abundance of yeast species varied by grape varieties, fermentation stage and SO2 treatment. A number of 290 S. cerevisiae isolates were further classified into 33 genotypes by Interdelta fingerprinting. A prevailing role of grape varieties in shaping the genetic divergence of S. cerevisiae in Yuma vineyard was observed, as compared to the impacts of fermentation stage and SO2 treatment. Pre-selected S. cerevisiae strains were subjected to vinification with Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. All strains completed fermentations but the physiochemical parameters and volatile profiles of wines were strain-specific. Some indigenous S. cerevisiae yielded more desirable aroma compounds compared to the commercial strains, among which NX16 and NX18 outcompeted others, therefore having potential for use as starters. This study provides comprehensive analysis on yeast diversity at vineyard scale in Ningxia. Information on the vinification using indigenous S. cerevisiae is of great value for improving Ningxia wine regionality.
Soil pH, Calcium Content and Bacteria as Major Factors Responsible for the Distribution of the Known Fraction of the DNA Bacteriophage Populations in Soils of Luxembourg
Authors: Florent Perrine , Cauchie Henry-Michel , Herold Malte , Jacquet Stéphan , Ogorzaly Leslie
Published: July 2022

Bacteriophages participate in soil life by influencing bacterial community structure and function, biogeochemical cycling and horizontal gene transfer. Despite their great abundance, diversity, and importance in microbial processes, they remain little explored in environmental studies. The influence of abiotic factors on the persistence of bacteriophages is now recognized; however, it has been mainly studied under experimental conditions. This study aimed to determine whether the abiotic factors well-known to influence bacteriophage persistence also control the natural distribution of the known DNA bacteriophage populations. To this end, soil from eight study sites including forests and grasslands located in the Attert River basin (Grand Duchy of Luxembourg) were sampled, covering different soil and land cover characteristics. Shotgun metagenomics, reference-based bioinformatics and statistical analyses allowed characterising the diversity of known DNA bacteriophage and bacterial communities. After combining soil properties with the identified DNA bacteriophage populations, our in-situ study highlighted the influence of pH and calcium cations on the diversity of the known fraction of the soil DNA bacteriophages. More interestingly, significant relationships were established between bacteriophage and bacterial populations. This study provides new insights into the importance of abiotic and biotic factors in the distribution of DNA bacteriophages and the natural ecology of terrestrial bacteriophages.
Evaluation of Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Properties of Alnus nitida
Authors: Sajid Moniba , Khan Muhammad Rashid , Ijaz Muhammad Umar , Ismail Hammad , Bhatti Muhammad Zeeshan , Shah Sayed Afzal , Ali Saima , Tareen Muhammad Usman , Alotaibi Saqer S. , Albogami Sarah M. , Batiha Gaber El-Saber
Published: July 2022

In the current study, the anti-inflammatory and analgesic potential of Alnus nitida (leaves and fruits) was evaluated in the Sprague-Dawley rat. Traditionally, A. nitida was used for the treatment of inflammatory ailments. However, A. nitida leaves and fruits have not been yet reported regarding any potential medicinal effects. Leaves/fruits of A. nitida were extracted with methanol and fractionated to attain n-hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate and aqueous fractions. These extracts were then evaluated for in vivo analgesic and anti-inflammatory potential. For in vivo anti-inflammatory activity, carrageenan-induced paw edema assay, Freunds’ complete adjuvant-induced edema, xylene-induced ear edema and histamine-induced paw edema models were used in rats, which showed significant (p < 0.01) reduction (70–80%) in edema in comparison of inflammatory controls. On other hand, for the analgesic assessment, hot plate assay and acetic acid-induced writhing tests were used, which showed a significant (p < 0.01) rise in latency time (40–60%) as compared with pain-induced controls. These results were comparable with standard drugs in a concentration-dependent manner and no mortality or toxicity was observed during all experiments. Then, for the identification of chemical constituents gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis was performed, which indicated the presence of neophytadiene, 3,7,11,15-Tetramethyl-2-hexadecen-1-ol, phytol and vitamin E, justifying the use of A. nitida to treat inflammatory disorders.
The Anti-Apoptotic Effects of Caspase Inhibitors in Propyl Gallate-Treated Lung Cancer Cells Are Related to Changes in Reactive Oxygen Species and Glutathione Levels
Authors: Park Woo hyun
Published: July 2022

Propyl gallate [3,4,5-trihydroxybenzoic acid propyl ester; PG] exhibits an anti-growth effect in various cells. In this study, the anti-apoptotic effects of various caspase inhibitors were evaluated in PG-treated Calu-6 and A549 lung cancer cells in relation to reactive oxygen species (ROS) and glutathione (GSH) levels. Treatment with 800 μM PG inhibited the proliferation and induced the cell death of both Calu-6 and A549 cells at 24 h. Each inhibitor of pan-caspase, caspase-3, caspase-8, and caspase-9 reduced the number of dead and sub-G1 cells in both PG-treated cells at 24 h. PG increased ROS levels, including O2∙−, in both lung cancer cell lines at 24 h. Generally, caspase inhibitors appeared to decrease ROS levels in PG-treated lung cancer cells at 24 h and somewhat reduced O2∙− levels. PG augmented the number of GSH-depleted Calu-6 and A549 cells at 24 h. Caspase inhibitors did not affect the level of GSH depletion in PG-treated A549 cells but differently and partially altered the depletion level in PG-treated Calu-6 cells. In conclusion, PG exhibits an anti-proliferative effect in Calu-6 and A549 lung cancer cells and induced their cell death. PG-induced lung cancer death was accompanied by increases in ROS levels and GSH depletion. Therefore, the anti-apoptotic effects of caspase inhibitors were, at least in part, related to changes in ROS and GSH levels.
Supersaturation-Dependent Formation of Amyloid Fibrils
Authors: Goto Yuji , Noji Masahiro , Nakajima Kichitaro , Yamaguchi Keiichi
Published: July 2022

The supersaturation of a solution refers to a non-equilibrium phase in which the solution is trapped in a soluble state, even though the solute’s concentration is greater than its thermodynamic solubility. Upon breaking supersaturation, crystals form and the concentration of the solute decreases to its thermodynamic solubility. Soon after the discovery of the prion phenomena, it was recognized that prion disease transmission and propagation share some similarities with the process of crystallization. Subsequent studies exploring the structural and functional association between amyloid fibrils and amyloidoses solidified this paradigm. However, recent studies have not necessarily focused on supersaturation, possibly because of marked advancements in structural studies clarifying the atomic structures of amyloid fibrils. On the other hand, there is increasing evidence that supersaturation plays a critical role in the formation of amyloid fibrils and the onset of amyloidosis. Here, we review the recent evidence that supersaturation plays a role in linking unfolding/folding and amyloid fibril formation. We also introduce the HANABI (HANdai Amyloid Burst Inducer) system, which enables high-throughput analysis of amyloid fibril formation by the ultrasonication-triggered breakdown of supersaturation. In addition to structural studies, studies based on solubility and supersaturation are essential both to developing a comprehensive understanding of amyloid fibrils and their roles in amyloidosis, and to developing therapeutic strategies.
Transcriptome Analyses Revealed the Key Metabolic Genes and Transcription Factors Involved in Terpenoid Biosynthesis in Sacred Lotus
Authors: Qin Lili , Du Fei , Yang Ningning , Zhang Chen , Wang Zhiwen , Zheng Xingwen , Tang Jiawei , Yang Liangbo , Dong Chen
Published: July 2022

As the largest group of structurally diverse metabolites, terpenoids are versatile natural compounds that act as metabolism mediators, plant volatiles, and ecological communicators. However, few terpenoid compounds have been identified in plant parts of sacred lotus (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.). To elucidate the molecular genetic basis of the terpene biosynthetic pathway, terpenes from different parts of the plant, including seeds (S), young leaves (YL), mature leaves (ML), white flowers (WF), yellow flowers (YF), and red flowers (RF), were identified by LC-MS/MS and the relative contents of the same terpenes in different parts were compared. The results indicate that all plant parts primarily consist of triterpenes, with only minor quantities of sesquiterpenes and diterpenes, and there were differences in the terpene content detected in different plant parts. To illustrate the biosynthesis of various terpenoids, RNA sequencing was performed to profile the transcriptomes of various plant parts, which generated a total of 126.95 GB clean data and assembled into 29,630 unigenes. Among these unigenes, 105 candidate unigenes are involved in the mevalonate (MVA) pathway, methyl-erythritol phosphate (MEP) pathway, terpenoid backbone biosynthesis pathway, and terpenoid synthases pathway. Moreover, the co-expression network between terpene synthase (TPS) and WRKY transcription factors provides new information for the terpene biosynthesis pathway.
Enhanced Visible Light-Driven Photoelectrocatalytic Degradation of Paracetamol at a Ternary z-Scheme Heterojunction of Bi2WO6 with Carbon Nanoparticles and TiO2 Nanotube Arrays Electrode
Authors: Mahhumane Nondumiso , Cele Leskey M. , Muzenda Charles , Nkwachukwu Oluchi V. , Koiki Babatunde A. , Arotiba Omotayo A.
Published: July 2022

In this study, a ternary z-scheme heterojunction of Bi2WO6 with carbon nanoparticles and TiO2 nanotube arrays was used to remove paracetamol from water by photoelectrocatalysis. The materials and z-scheme electrode were characterised using X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), EDS mapping, ultraviolet diffuse reflection spectroscopy (UV-DRS), photocurrent measurement, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), uv-vis spectroscopy and total organic carbon measurement (TOC). The effect of parameters such as current density and pH were studied. At optimal conditions, the electrode was applied for photoelectrocatalytic degradation of paracetamol, which gave a degradation efficiency of 84% within 180 min. The total organic carbon removal percentage obtained when using this electrode was 72%. Scavenger studies revealed that the holes played a crucial role during the photoelectrocatalytic degradation of paracetamol. The electrode showed high stability and reusability therefore suggesting that the z-scheme Bi2WO6-CNP-TiO2 nanotube arrays electrode is an efficient photoanode for the degradation of pharmaceuticals in wastewater.
Graphene-Encapsulated Silver Nanoparticles for Plasmonic Vapor Sensing
Authors: Piszter Gábor , Molnár György , Pálinkás András , Osváth Zoltán
Published: July 2022

Graphene-covered silver nanoparticles were prepared directly on highly oriented pyrolytic graphite substrates and characterized by atomic force microscopy. UV–Vis reflectance spectroscopy was used to measure the shift in the local surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) upon exposure to acetone, ethanol, 2-propanol, toluene, and water vapor. The optical responses were found to be substance-specific, as also demonstrated by principal component analysis. Point defects were introduced in the structure of the graphene overlayer by O2 plasma. The LSPR was affected by the plasma treatment, but it was completely recovered using subsequent annealing. It was found that the presence of defects increased the response for toluene and water while decreasing it for acetone.
Facile Synthesis of Hierarchical CoSeO3‧2H2O Nanoflowers Assembled by Nanosheets as a Novel Anode Material for High-Performance Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Ji Xiao-Xu , Zhao Qing-Huai , Chen Hao , Luo Xin-Wei , Shang Yi , Liu Xiao-Di
Published: July 2022

As novel anodic materials for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), transitional metal selenites can transform into metal oxide/selenide heterostructures in the first cycle, which helps to enhance the Li+ storage performance, especially in terms of high discharge capacity. Herein, well-defined hierarchical CoSeO3‧2H2O nanoflowers assembled using 10 nm-thick nanosheets are successfully synthesized via a facile one-step hydrothermal method. When used as anodic materials for LIBs, the CoSeO3‧2H2O nanoflowers exhibit a considerably high discharge capacity of 1064.1 mAh g−1 at a current density of 0.1 A g−1. In addition, the obtained anode possesses good rate capability and cycling stability. Owing to the superior electrochemical properties, the CoSeO3‧2H2O nanoflowers would serve as promising anodic materials for high-performance LIBs.
Ultrasmall-in-Nano: Why Size Matters
Authors: Mellor Ryan D. , Uchegbu Ijeoma F.
Published: July 2022

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are continuing to gain popularity in the field of nanotechnology. New methods are continuously being developed to tune the particles’ physicochemical properties, resulting in control over their biological fate and applicability to in vivo diagnostics and therapy. This review focuses on the effects of varying particle size on optical properties, opsonization, cellular internalization, renal clearance, biodistribution, tumor accumulation, and toxicity. We review the common methods of synthesizing ultrasmall AuNPs, as well as the emerging constructs termed ultrasmall-in-nano—an approach which promises to provide the desirable properties from both ends of the AuNP size range. We review the various applications and outcomes of ultrasmall-in-nano constructs in vitro and in vivo.
Exopolysaccharides of Lactic Acid Bacteria: Production, Purification and Health Benefits towards Functional Food
Authors: Sørensen Helena Mylise , Rochfort Keith D. , Maye Susan , MacLeod George , Brabazon Dermot , Loscher Christine , Freeland Brian
Published: July 2022

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are capable of synthesising metabolites known as exopolysaccharides (EPS) during fermentation. Traditionally, EPS plays an important role in fermented dairy products through their gelling and thickening properties, but they can also be beneficial to human health. This bioactivity has gained attention in applications for functional foods, which leads them to have prebiotic, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, anti-tumour, cholesterol-lowering and anti-obesity activity. Understanding the parameters and conditions is crucial to optimising the EPS yields from LAB for applications in the food industry. This review provides an overview of the functional food market together with the biosynthesis of EPS. Factors influencing the production of EPS as well as methods for isolation, characterisation and quantification are reviewed. Finally, the health benefits associated with EPS are discussed.
The Influence of Food Environments on Food Security Resilience during the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Examination of Urban and Rural Difference in Kenya
Authors: Merchant Emily V. , Fatima Tasneem , Fatima Alisa , Maiyo Norah , Mutuku Vincent , Keino Susan , Simon James E. , Hoffman Daniel J. , Downs Shauna M.
Published: July 2022

Hunger and food insecurity has worsened due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The types of food environments (e.g., natural/built) that people can access may improve household resilience to food-system shocks. This paper examines (1) urban and rural differences in the perceived influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on agricultural, livelihoods, food environment attributes, diets; and (2) whether access to different food environments was associated with food security. A two-part telephonic survey (COVID-19 Surveillance Community Action Network Food Systems Tool and Household Food Insecurity Access Scale) was conducted in Western Kenya (n = 173) and an informal settlement in Nairobi (n = 144) in January/February 2021. Limitations on the acquisition of farm inputs and movement restrictions had an adverse impact on agriculture and food sales. Urban residents reported a more significant impact on livelihoods (97% vs. 87%, p < 0.001), with day laborers being the most impacted. Rural respondents reported access to significantly more food environments and lower food insecurity. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that younger respondents, ≤1 income source, had more difficulty acquiring food, decreased access to cultivated environments, and increased access to informal markets were predictors for higher food insecurity. These data indicate that access to specific types of food environments may improve household resilience.