bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Salicylic Acid on Heavy Metal Resistance in Eukaryotic Algae and Its Mechanisms
Authors: Zhang Tingting , Shi Mei , Yan Hao , Li Cheng
Published: October 2022

Heavy metal pollution and water eutrophication are still the main issues to be solved in the environmental field. To find a biological control method for Cd2+-contaminated water or combined eutrophication and Cd2+ pollution water, the effects of salicylic acid on heavy metal Cd2+ resistance in eukaryotic algae Scenedesmus obliquus and Chlorella pyrenoidosa and its mechanisms were studied. The results showed that the inhibition rates of 3.0 mg/L Cd2+ stress group at 96 h were 67.0% on S. obliquus and 61.4% on C. pyrenoidosa and their uptake of Cd2+ was 0.31 mg/g and 0.35 mg/g, respectively. When adding the different concentrations of salicylic acid while stressed by 3.0 mg/L Cd2+, the hormesis phenomenon of low dose stimulation and high dose inhibition could be seen, and the inhibition rates of 30 mg/L~90 mg/L salicylic acid addition groups were significantly lower than those of the Cd2+ stress group alone, which were statistically significant (p < 0.05) and the absorption of Cd2+ was dramatically improved. Except for the 120 mg/L salicylic acid addition group, the chlorophyll fluorescence parameters (Fv/Fm and YII), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and glutathione-S-transferase (GST) activities of all the other concentration groups were significantly higher than those of the Cd2+ stress group alone, p < 0.05.; the algal cell morphology in low concentration groups (30 mg/L and 60 mg/L) was also less damaged than those in the Cd2+ stress group alone. These indicate that the low concentrations of salicylic acid can counteract or protect the algal cells from Cd2+ attack, the mechanisms, on the one hand, might be related to the chelation of heavy metals by salicylic acid, resulting in the decrease of the toxicity of Cd2+; on the other hand, low concentrations of salicylic acid can stimulate the growth of these two algae, improve their photosynthetic efficiency and antioxidant capacity, as well as maintain the relative integrity of algal morphological structure.
Identification of Candidate mRNA Isoforms for Prostate Cancer-Risk SNPs Utilizing Iso-eQTL and sQTL Methods
Authors: Moradi Afshin , Sharma Harsh , Sharma Ravi Datta , Fernando Achala , Barrero Roberto A. , Batra Jyotsna
Published: October 2022

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) impacting the alternative splicing (AS) process (sQTLs) or isoform expression (iso-eQTL) are implicated as important cancer regulatory elements. To find the sQTL and iso-eQTL, we retrieved prostate cancer (PrCa) tissue RNA-seq and genotype data originating from 385 PrCa European patients from The Cancer Genome Atlas. We conducted RNA-seq analysis with isoform-based and splice event-based approaches. The MatrixEQTL was used to identify PrCa-associated sQTLs and iso-eQTLs. The overlap between sQTL and iso-eQTL with GWAS loci and those that are differentially expressed between cancer and normal tissue were identified. The cis-acting associations (FDR < 0.05) for PrCa-risk SNPs identified 42, 123, and 90 PrCa-associated cassette exons, intron retention, and mRNA isoforms belonging to 25, 95, and 83 genes, respectively; while assessment of trans-acting association (FDR < 0.05) yielded 59, 65, and 196 PrCa-associated cassette exons, intron retention and mRNA isoforms belonging to 35, 55, and 181 genes, respectively. The results suggest that functional PrCa-associated SNPs can play a role in PrCa genesis by making an important contribution to the dysregulation of AS and, consequently, impacting the expression of the mRNA isoforms.
Neutrophil Count as Atrioventricular Block (AVB) Predictor following Pediatric Heart Surgery
Authors: Urbanowicz Tomasz , Olasińska-Wiśniewska Anna , Gładki Marcin , Michalak Michał , Sochacki Mateusz , Weclewska Anita , Zalas Dominika , Bobkowski Waldemar , Jemielity Marek
Published: October 2022

Neutrophils play a significant role in immune and inflammatory reactions. The preoperative inflammatory activation may have a detrimental effect on postoperative outcomes. The aim of the study was to investigate the relation between preoperative hematological indices on postoperative complications’ risk in pediatric cardiac congenital surgery. The retrospective single center analysis included 93 pediatric patients (48 (65%) males and 45 (35%) females), mean age of 7 (3–30) months referred for cardiac surgery in cardiopulmonary bypass due to functional single ventricle disease (26 procedures), shunts lesions (40 procedures) and cyanotic disease (27 procedures). Among simple hematological indices, the receiver-operating-characteristic curve showed that a neutrophil count below 2.59 K/uL was found as an optimal cut-off point for predicting postoperative atrioventricular block following pediatric cardiac surgery (AUC = 0.845, p < 0.0001) yielding a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 65.62%. Preoperative values of neutrophil count below 2.59 K/uL in whole blood analysis can be regarded as a predictive factor (AUC = 0.845, p < 0.0001) for postoperative atrioventricular block in pediatric cardiac surgery.
Transcriptomic Analysis in Marine Medaka Gill Reveals That the Hypo-Osmotic Stress Could Alter the Immune Response via the IL17 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Li Rong , Liu Jiaqi , Leung Chi Tim , Lin Xiao , Chan Ting Fung , Tse William Ka Fai , Lai Keng Po
Published: October 2022

Fish gills are the major osmoregulatory tissue that contact the external water environment and have developed an effective osmoregulatory mechanism to maintain cellular function. Marine medaka (Oryzias melastigma) has the ability to live in both seawater and fresh water environments. The present study performed a seawater (SW) to 50% seawater (SFW) transfer, and the gill samples were used for comparative transcriptomic analysis to study the alteration of hypo-osmotic stress on immune responsive genes in this model organism. The result identified 518 differentiated expressed genes (DEGs) after the SW to SFW transfer. Various pathways such as p53 signaling, forkhead box O signaling, and the cell cycle were enriched. Moreover, the immune system was highlighted as one of the top altered biological processes in the enrichment analysis. Various cytokines, chemokines, and inflammatory genes that participate in the IL-17 signaling pathway were suppressed after the SW to SFW transfer. On the other hand, some immunoglobulin-related genes were up-regulated. The results were further validated by real-time qPCR. Taken together, our study provides additional gill transcriptome information in marine medaka; it also supports the notion that osmotic stress could influence the immune responses in fish gills.
Alterations in Primary Carbon Metabolism in Cucumber Infected with Pseudomonas syringae pv lachrymans: Local and Systemic Responses
Authors: Kopczewski Tomasz , Kuźniak Elżbieta , Ciereszko Iwona , Kornaś Andrzej
Published: October 2022

The reconfiguration of the primary metabolism is essential in plant–pathogen interactions. We compared the local metabolic responses of cucumber leaves inoculated with Pseudomonas syringae pv lachrymans (Psl) with those in non-inoculated systemic leaves, by examining the changes in the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotides pools, the concentration of soluble carbohydrates and activities/gene expression of carbohydrate metabolism-related enzymes, the expression of photosynthesis-related genes, and the tricarboxylic acid cycle-linked metabolite contents and enzyme activities. In the infected leaves, Psl induced a metabolic signature with an altered [NAD(P)H]/[NAD(P)+] ratio; decreased glucose and sucrose contents, along with a changed invertase gene expression; and increased glucose turnover and accumulation of raffinose, trehalose, and myo-inositol. The accumulation of oxaloacetic and malic acids, enhanced activities, and gene expression of fumarase and l-malate dehydrogenase, as well as the increased respiration rate in the infected leaves, indicated that Psl induced the tricarboxylic acid cycle. The changes in gene expression of ribulose-l,5-bis-phosphate carboxylase/oxygenase large unit, phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase and chloroplast glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase were compatible with a net photosynthesis decline described earlier. Psl triggered metabolic changes common to the infected and non-infected leaves, the dynamics of which differed quantitatively (e.g., malic acid content and metabolism, glucose-6-phosphate accumulation, and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity) and those specifically related to the local or systemic response (e.g., changes in the sugar content and turnover). Therefore, metabolic changes in the systemic leaves may be part of the global effects of local infection on the whole-plant metabolism and also represent a specific acclimation response contributing to balancing growth and defense.
Hop Extract Anti-Inflammatory Effect on Human Chondrocytes Is Potentiated When Encapsulated in Rapeseed Lecithin Nanoliposomes
Authors: Velot Émilie , Ducrocq Florent , Girardeau Loïc , Hehn Alain , Piutti Séverine , Kahn Cyril , Linder Michel , Bianchi Arnaud , Arab-Tehrany Elmira
Published: October 2022

Hop (Humulus lupulus L.) is a plant used as an ingredient in beer or employed for its anti-inflammatory properties. The cultivation of hops is currently dedicated to the brewing industry, where mainly female flowers are used, whereas aerial parts, such as leaves, are considered coproducts. Osteoarthritis is the most common musculoskeletal disease associated with low-grade cartilage inflammation. Liposomes have been shown to be promising systems for drug delivery to cartilage cells, called chondrocytes. The aim of our work was to vectorize hop extract valorized from coproducts as a therapeutic agent to alleviate inflammation in human chondrocytes in vitro. Liquid chromatography allowed the identification of oxidized bitter acids in a methanolic extract obtained from the leaves of Cascade hops. The extract was encapsulated in rapeseed lecithin nanoliposomes, and the physicochemical properties of empty or loaded nanoliposomes exhibited no difference. Increasing concentrations of the hop extract alone, empty nanoliposomes, and loaded nanoliposomes were tested on human chondrocytes to assess biocompatibility. The appropriate conditions were applied to chondrocytes stimulated with interleukin-1β to evaluate their effect on inflammation. The results reveal that encapsulation potentiates the hop extract anti-inflammatory effect and that it might be able to improve joint inflammation in osteoarthritis. Furthermore, these results also show that a “zero waste” chain is something that can be achieved in hop cultivation.
Comparative Assessment of the Inhibitory Potential of the Herbicide Glyphosate and Its Structural Analogs on RGD-Specific Integrins Using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assays
Authors: Gémes Borbála , Takács Eszter , Székács Inna , Horvath Robert , Székács András
Published: October 2022

Transmembrane glycoprotein integrins play crucial roles in biochemical processes, and by their inhibition or activation, different signal pathways can be disrupted, leading to abnormal physiological functions. We have previously demonstrated the inhibitory effect of glyphosate herbicide’s active ingredient on cell adhesion and its αvβ3 integrin antagonist effect. Therefore, it appeared particularly exciting to investigate inhibition of glyphosate and its metabolites on a wider range of Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) binding integrins, namely αvβ3, α5β1 and αllbβ3. Thus, the purpose of this study was to assess how extended the inhibitory effect observed for glyphosate on the integrin αvβ3 is in terms of other RGD integrins and other structurally or metabolically related derivatives of glyphosate. Five different experimental setups using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays were applied: (i) αvβ3 binding to a synthetic polymer containing RGD; (ii) αvβ3 binding to its extracellular matrix (ECM) protein, vitronectin; (iii) α5β1 binding to the above polymer containing RGD; (iv) αllbβ3 binding to its ECM protein, fibrinogen and (v) αvβ3 binding to the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein receptor binding domain. Total inhibition of αvβ3 binding to RGD was detected for glyphosate and its main metabolite, aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA), as well as for acetylglycine on α5β1 binding to RGD.
CPAP Influence on Readily Available Inflammatory Markers in OSA—A Pilot Study
Authors: Zota Ioana Madalina , Adam Cristina Andreea , Marcu Dragoș Traian Marius , Stătescu Cristian , Sascău Radu , Anghel Larisa , Boișteanu Daniela , Roca Mihai , Cozma Corina Lucia Dima , Maștaleru Alexandra , Constantin Maria Magdalena Leon , Moaleș Elena Andreea , Mitu Florin
Published: October 2022

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is characterized by repetitive upper airway collapse, chronic hypoxia and a proinflammatory phenotype. The purpose of our study was to evaluate readily available inflammatory biomarkers (C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), white blood cell count (WBC), red cell distribution width (RDW), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), mean platelet volume (MPV), WBC-to-MPV ratio (WMR) and lymphocyte-to-C-reactive protein ratio (LCR)) before and after CPAP in patients with moderate–severe OSA. We performed a prospective study that included patients with newly-diagnosed moderate–severe OSA. The control groups (patients without OSA and with mild OSA) were selected from the hospital polygraphy database. All subjects underwent routine blood panel, which was repeated in moderate–severe OSA patients after 8 weeks of CPAP. Our final study group included 31 controls, 33 patients with mild, 22 patients with moderate and 37 patients with severe OSA. CRP, ESR, NLR and WMR were correlated with OSA severity. After 8-week CPAP therapy, we documented a decrease in weight status, which remained statistically significant in both CPAP-adherent and non-adherent subgroups. Readily available, inexpensive inflammatory parameters can predict the presence of moderate–severe OSA, but are not influenced by short-term CPAP.
Genome-Wide Identification, Evolution, and Expression Pattern Analysis of the GATA Gene Family in Tartary Buckwheat (Fagopyrum tataricum)
Authors: Yao Xin , Zhou Meiliang , Ruan Jingjun , He Ailing , Ma Chao , Wu Weijiao , Lai Dili , Fan Yu , Gao Anjing , Weng Wenfeng , Cheng Jianping
Published: October 2022

GATA is a transcription factor that exerts a vital function in plant growth and development, physiological metabolism, and environmental responses. However, the GATA gene family has rarely been studied in Tartary buckwheat since the completion of its genome. This study used bioinformatics methods to identify GATA genes of Tartary buckwheat and to analyze their subfamily classification, structural composition, and developmental evolution, as well as to discuss the expression patterns of FtGATA genes in different subfamilies. The twenty-eight identified FtGATA genes in the Tartary buckwheat genome were divided into four subfamilies and distributed on eight chromosomes. One pair of tandem repeat genes and eight pairs of fragments were found in chromosome mapping. Spatiotemporal expression patterns of eight FtGATA genes in different subfamilies indicated that the FtGATA gene family has regulatory roles in tissue specificity, fruit development, abiotic stress, and hormonal responses. This study creates a theoretical and scientific foundation for further research on the evolutionary relationship and biological function of FtGATA.
The Predictive Value of Different Nutritional Indices Combined with the GRACE Score in Predicting the Risk of Long-Term Death in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Chen Xu , Xiong Shiqiang , Chen Yingzhong , Cheng Lianchao , Chen Qiang , Yang Siqi , Qi Lingyao , Liu Hanxiong , Cai Lin
Published: October 2022

Nutritional status is associated with prognosis in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients. Although the Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events (GRACE) risk score is regarded as a relevant risk predictor for the prognosis of ACS patients, nutritional variables are not included in the GRACE score. This study aimed to compare the prognostic ability of the Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI) and Prognostic Nutritional Index (PNI) in predicting long-term all-cause death in ACS patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and to determine whether the GNRI or PNI could improve the predictive value of the GRACE score. A total of 799 patients with ACS who underwent PCI from May 2018 to December 2019 were included and regularly followed up. The performance of the PNI in predicting all-cause death was better than that of the GNRI [C-index, 0.677 vs. 0.638, p = 0.038]. The addition of the PNI significantly improved the predictive value of the GRACE score for all-cause death [increase in C-index from 0.722 to 0.740; IDI 0.006; NRI 0.095; p < 0.05]. The PNI was superior to the GNRI in predicting long-term all-cause death in ACS patients undergoing PCI. The addition of the PNI to the GRACE score could significantly improve the prediction of long-term all-cause death.
Benzyldimethyldodecyl Ammonium Chloride Doped Dental Adhesive: Impact on Core’s Properties, Biosafety, and Antibacterial/Bonding Performance after Aging
Authors: Mokeem Lamia Sami , Balhaddad Abdulrahman A. , Garcia Isadora Martini , Collares Fabrício Mezzomo , Melo Mary Anne S.
Published: October 2022

Current dental adhesives lack antibacterial properties. This study aimed to explore the effect of incorporating benzyldimethyldodecyl ammonium chloride (BDMDAC) on the degree of conversion, contact angle, ultimate tensile strength (UTS), microtensile bond strength (µTBS), cytotoxicity, antibacterial and bonding performance after artificial aging. A dental adhesive was doped with BDMDAC in the concentration range of 1–5 wt.%. For antibacterial assays, the BDMDAC compound was subject to planktonic cells of Streptococcus mutans. Then, after incorporation into the dental adhesive, an S. mutans biofilm model was used to grow 48 h-mature biofilms. The biofilms grown over the formulated materials were assessed by colony-forming unit (CFU) counting assay and fluorescence microscopy staining. In addition, the cytotoxicity was evaluated. Samples were subjected to 10,000 thermal cycles for aging and evaluated by UTS, µTBS, and CFU. Incorporating BDMDAC did not increase the cytotoxicity or change the physical properties when the mass fraction of the BDMDAC was 1–5 wt.%. The UTS of BDMDAC-doped adhesives was not impaired immediately or over time. A significant bacterial reduction was obtained for the mass fraction of the BDMDAC greater than 3 wt.%. However, the BDMDAC-doped adhesives did not offer an antibacterial effect after artificial aging. The overall results indicate that the BDMDAC strategy has the potential to control of microbial growth of cariogenic planktonic cells and biofilms. However, other new technological approaches are needed to overcome the deleterious effect of BDMDAC release over time such as those based on the principle of drug delivery systems whereby the BDMDAC is transported on microparticles or core shells, providing tangible benefits to oral health over time.
Acute Low Force Electrically Induced Exercise Modulates Post Prandial Glycemic Markers in People with Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Petrie Michael A. , Kimball Amy L. , Shields Richard K.
Published: October 2022

Regular exercise involves daily muscle contractions helping metabolize up to 70% of daily ingested glucose. Skeletal muscle increases glucose uptake through two distinct pathways: insulin signaling pathway and muscle contraction mediated AMPK pathway. People with paralysis are unable to contract their muscles which atrophy, transform into insulin resistant glycolytic muscle, and develop osteoporosis. Our goal is to determine if low force electrically induced exercise (LFE) will modulate the post prandial insulin and glucose response in people with and without spinal cord injury (SCI). 18 people with SCI and 23 without SCI (Non-SCI) participated in an assessment of metabolic biomarkers during passive sitting (CTL) and a bout of LFE delivered to the quadriceps/hamstring muscle groups after a glucose challenge. Baseline fasting insulin (p = 0.003) and lactate (p = 0.033) levels were higher in people with SCI, but glucose levels (p = 0.888) were similar compared to the non-SCI population. After 1-h of muscle contractions using LFE, heart rate increased (p < 0.001), capillary glucose decreased (p = 0.004), insulin decreased (p < 0.001), and lactate increased (p = 0.001) in the SCI population. These findings support that LFE attenuates certain metabolic blood biomarkers during a glucose challenge and may offer a lifestyle strategy to regulate metabolic responses after eating among people with SCI.
Line Clipping in 2D: Overview, Techniques and Algorithms
Authors: Matthes Dimitrios , Drakopoulos Vasileios
Published: October 2022

Clipping, as a fundamental process in computer graphics, displays only the part of a scene which is needed to be displayed and rejects all others. In two dimensions, the clipping process can be applied to a variety of geometric primitives such as points, lines, polygons or curves. A line-clipping algorithm processes each line in a scene through a series of tests and intersection calculations to determine whether the entire line or any part of it is to be saved. It also calculates the intersection position of a line with the window edges so its major goal is to minimize these calculations. This article surveys important techniques and algorithms for line-clipping in 2D but it also includes some of the latest research made by the authors. The survey criteria include evaluation of all line-clipping algorithms against a rectangular window, line clipping versus polygon clipping, and our line clipping against a convex polygon, as well as all line-clipping algorithms against a convex polygon algorithm.
Viscous Flow Fields Induced by the Run-Up of Periodic Waves on Vertical and Sloping Seawalls
Authors: Lin Chun-Yuan , Huang Ching-Jer , Hsu Tai-Wen
Published: October 2022

Unsteady two-dimensional Reynolds Averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) equations coupled with the k−ε turbulence model was developed to simulate the viscous flow field near seawalls. The complex free-surface configuration was captured using the particle level set method (PLSM). An innovative solid-fluid coupling method was employed to mimic the solid-fluid interaction on fixed Cartesian grids. The proposed numerical model was applied to investigate the viscous flow fields induced by periodic waves propagating on three different seawalls, including vertical and steep seawalls, which are commonly designed in Taiwan with slopes of 1:2 and 1:5. The results reveal that the wave run-up height is closely related to Iribarren number and breaking wave. Partial standing wave or asymmetric recirculating cells in front of a steep seawall lose symmetry with increasing slope. The wave pressure on the seawall face increases as the Ursell number or seawall slope increases. The undertow caused by breaking waves has a significant effect on the bottom shear stress in front of the seawall.
Dominant Frequency Extraction for Operational Underwater Sound of Offshore Wind Turbines Using Adaptive Stochastic Resonance
Authors: Wang Rongxin , Xu Xiaomei , Zou Zheguang , Huang Longfei , Tao Yi
Published: October 2022

Underwater sound generated by the rapidly increasing offshore wind farms worldwide greatly affects the underwater soundscape and may cause long-term cumulative effects on sound-sensitive marine organisms. However, its analysis and impact assessment are heavily interfered with by underwater ambient noise. In this study, an adaptive stochastic resonance method is proposed to extract the dominant frequency of wind turbine operational sound when heavy noise is present. In particular, a time–frequency–amplitude fusion index was proposed to guide the parameter tuning of an adaptive stochastic resonance system, and an equilibrium optimizer based on the physical dynamic source–sink principle was adopted to optimize the parameter-tuning process. The results from the simulation and field data showed that the dominant frequency of operational sound was extracted adaptively. For field data with wind speeds of 4.13–6.15 m/s (at 90 m hub height), the extracted dominant frequency varied with wind speed between 90 and 107 Hz, and it was highly correlated with the wind turbine rotor speed monitored synchronously in the air, with a correlation coefficient of 0.985. Compared to other existing methods, our method has a higher output signal-to-noise ratio and a shorter running time.
A Whole Genome Sequencing-Based Approach to Track down Genomic Variants in Itraconazole-Resistant Species of Aspergillus from Iran
Authors: Nargesi Sanaz , Valadan Reza , Abastabar Mahdi , Kaboli Saeed , Thekkiniath Jose , Hedayati Mohammad Taghi
Published: October 2022

The antifungal resistance in non-fumigatus Aspergillus spp., as well as Aspergillus fumigatus, poses a major therapeutic challenge which affects the entire healthcare community. Mutation occurrence of cyp51 gene paralogs is the major cause of azole resistance in Aspergillus spp. To obtain a full map of genomic changes, an accurate scan of the entire length of the Aspergillus genome is necessary. In this study, using whole genome sequencing (WGS) technique, we evaluated the mutation in cyp51A, cyp51B, Cdr1B, AtrR, Hmg1, HapE and FfmA genes in different clinical isolates of Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus tubingensis, Aspergillus welwitschiae and Aspergillus terreus which responded to minimum inhibitory concentrations of itraconazole above 16 µg mL−1. We found different nonsynonymous mutations in the cyp51A, cyp51B, Cdr1B, AtrR, Hmg1, HapE and FfmA gene loci. According to our findings, Aspergillus species isolated from different parts of the world may represent different pattern of resistance mechanisms which may be revealed by WGS.
Transcription Factors in Aureobasidium spp.: Classification, Regulation and a Newly Built Database
Authors: Yang Guang , Wang Yuhan , Fang Yaowei , Mo Hongjuan , Hu Zhihong , Hou Xiaoyue , Liu Shu , Chen Zhongwei , Jia Shulei
Published: October 2022

Transcription factors (TFs) can regulate the synthesis of secondary metabolites through different metabolic pathways in Aureobasidium spp. In this study, a set of 16 superfamilies, 45 PFAM families of TFs with the DNA-binding domains, seven zinc finger families and eight categories of the C2H2 TFs have been identified in Aureobasidium spp. Among all the identified TFs, four superfamilies and six PFAM families are the fungal-specific types in this lineage. The Zn2Cys6 and fungal-specific domain regulators are found to be overwhelmingly predominated, while the C2H2 zinc finger class comprises a smaller regulator class. Since there are currently no databases that allow for easy exploration of the TFs in Aureobasidium spp., based on over 50 references and 2405 homologous TFs, the first TFs pipeline—the Aureobasidium Transcription Factor Database (ATFDB)—has been developed to accelerate the identification of metabolic regulation in various Aureobasidium species. It would be useful to investigate the mechanisms behind the wide adaptability and metabolite diversity of Aureobasidium spp.
The Uneven Short-Run Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Foreign Direct Investment
Authors: Wright Roxana , Wu Chen
Published: October 2022

This study examines short-run economic and business impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic as a global disruption event. The purpose is to build propositions about specific subnational FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) developments in the short-term of global disturbance. We approach the investigation by reviewing FDI outcomes in the year prior and in the first year of the pandemic, at the U.S. national and subnational levels, and through the lens of local characteristics and FDI outcomes in the state of New Hampshire. Our methods include distribution and frequency analyses on two sets of data: secondary data on FDI and trade at the state level, and primary data as direct observations on firm activities in New Hampshire. Our leading method is the evaluation of data aimed at triangulating and consequently generating a set of propositions that explain phenomena observed in relation to short-term effects of disruption. Our methodological tools consist of an in-focus instance of the phenomena in one state, as a particular case for verifying the validity of our propositions, and comparisons with available data across states to establish the reliability of the proposed consequences. Our analysis provides evidence for subnational heterogeneity of global disruption impact. Our interstate trend analysis and unique data on FDI-related activities in New Hampshire reveal how foreign businesses respond to the external shock of global disruption in the short-run. We use our insights to propose that established regional supply chains and differences in local advantages determine varying FDI outcomes across subnational locations. As a result, we set forth three calls-to-action for regional policymakers: the development of initiatives to support strong trade and FDI-outcomes at all times and in preparation for global disruption; the promotion and facilitation of firms’ access to markets; and the implementation of actions that encourage the establishment of regional supply chains.
Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles (AgNPs) of Angelica Gigas Fabricated by Hot-Melt Extrusion Technology for Enhanced Antifungal Effects
Authors: Ryu Suji , Nam Seoul-Hee , Baek Jong-Suep
Published: October 2022

Green synthesis for synthesizing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) has been suggested as an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional physical/chemical methods. In this study, we report the green synthesis of AgNPs using a hot-melt extrusion-processed Angelica gigas Nakai (AGN) (HME-AGN) extract as a reducing agent to increase the water solubility of the active ingredient compared to the existing AGN. The mixture of the AGN extract and AgNO3 at about 420 nm could not confirm the formation of AgNPs. The synthesis of AgNPs was found to be most advantageous at 60 °C when the mixing ratio of the HME-AGN extract was 9:1 (AgNO3–extract, v/v) using 3 mM AgNO3. The physicochemical properties of the optimized AgNPs were characterized by UV–Vis spectrophotometer, dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and X-ray diffractometer (XRD). DLS showed the particle size average of 102.3 ± 1.35 nm and polydispersity index (PDI) value of 0.314 ± 0.01. The particle surface charge was −35 ± 0.79 mV, confirming the stability of the particles. The particle shape was spherical, as shown through TEM analysis, and the presence of silver ions was confirmed through the EDS results. FT-IR data showed functional groups of biomolecules of the extract involved in the synthesis of AgNPs. The face-centered cubic (FCC) lattice of AgNPs was confirmed in the XRD pattern. The AgNPs had an effective antifungal activity against Candida albicans (C. albicans) that was better than that of the HME-AGN extract. In conclusion, this study suggests that the synthesis of AgNPs was improved by using the HME-AGN extract with increased water solubility through HME. In addition, it was suggested that the synthesized AgNPs can be used as an improved antifungal agent compared with the HME-AGN extract with antifungal activity.
The Influence of the Thickness of the Materials for the Provisionalization in Minimally Invasive Restorations
Authors: Serrano-Belmonte Ildefonso , Roca-Cánovas Nerea , Linares-Tovar Eva K. , Martínez-Cánovas Ascensión , Pérez-Fernández Virginia
Published: October 2022

This in vitro study aimed to determine the flexural strength and modulus of elasticity of two bisacrylic resins for temporary crowns at different thicknesses, i.e., Structur 3 and Structur Premium, and to compare them with each other. Sixty samples were prepared, thirty of each material, which were made at different thicknesses (1 mm, 1.5 mm, and 2 mm). The dimensions followed the UNE-EN ISO 178:2019 standard, with a length of 24 mm, a width of 10 mm, and the thicknesses described. Materials were subjected to a three-point bending test. For the modulus of elasticity, statistically significant differences were observed between the 1.5 mm and 2 mm thicknesses of Structur 3 material. For Structur Premium, statistically significant differences were observed between the thicknesses 1 mm and 1.5 mm as well as between 1 mm and 2 mm thickness. With respect to flexural strength, no statistically significant differences were observed for either material at the different thicknesses. Significant differences were observed between the materials for both flexural strength and modulus of elasticity, being higher for Structur Premium: Structur Premium has a higher flexural strength and modulus of elasticity than Structur 3. There are significant differences for the modulus of elasticity but not for the flexural strength between thicknesses.
The Liquid Limit as a Factor in Assessing the Improvement of Stabilized Cement-Based Highwater Content Clayey Sediments
Authors: Zhang Zichen , Omine Kiyoshi , Flemmy Samuel Oye , Li Cui
Published: October 2022

The purpose of this study was to assess the performance of high water content clayey sediments at different liquid limits as the clays are treated with cement-based solidifying materials. Three clay samples are obtained from different locations in the Kumamoto Reservoir. Two types of cement-based solidifying agents, namely, ordinary Portland cement and a cement–fly ash binder, were used. Using the initial water content of clay and the mixing amount of the solidifying agent as experimental variables, a cone penetration test was performed on the solidifying agent-stabilized clays to obtain the cone index (qc). The results showed that when the water content to cementitious content ratio (w/AW) was used as a parameter for evaluating the improvement of solidifying agent-stabilized clay, different forms of improvements were observed when different water and solidifying agent contents were used. This implied that the parameter w/AW was not suitable for evaluating the improvement of such clay. A new parameter, K, representing the content of solidifying agent, was introduced to account for the water content. For all sampled clays, the correlation coefficients for the K–ln qc relationship exceeded 0.9. Considering the effect of the liquid limit of the samples, the modified content of the solidifying agent (KL) was introduced to evaluate the cone index of the stabilized soils. It was discovered that the proposed equation unified the assessment of the improvement of the three samples of Kumamoto clayey sediments owing to the new parameter, KL.
Investigation of CFRP Reinforcement Ratio on the Flexural Capacity and Failure Mode of Plain Concrete Prisms
Authors: Qureshi Hisham Jahangir , Saleem Muhammad Umair , Khurram Nauman , Ahmad Jawad , Amin Muhammad Nasir , Khan Kaffayatullah , Aslam Fahid , Al Fuhaid Abdulrahman Fahad , Arifuzzaman Md
Published: October 2022

The utilization of carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites as strengthening materials for structural components has become quite famous over the last couple of decades. The present experimental study was carried out to examine the effect of varied widths of externally bonded CFRP on the debonding strain of CFRP and the failure mode of plain concrete beams. Twelve plain concrete prims measuring 100 mm × 100 mm × 500 mm were cast and tested under identical loading conditions. The twelve specimens include two control prisms, i.e., without CFRP strips, and the remaining ten prisms were reinforced with CFRP strips with widths of 10 mm, 20 mm, 30 mm, 40 mm, and 50 mm, respectively, i.e., two prisms in each group. Four-point loading flexural testing was carried out, and the resulting data are presented in the form of peak load vs. midpoint displacement, load vs. concrete strain, and load vs. CFRP strain. The peak load was directly recorded from the testing machine, while the midpoint deflection was recorded through the linear variable differential transducer (LVDT) installed at the midpoint. To measure the strain, two separate strain gauges were installed at the bottom of each concrete prism, i.e., one on the concrete surface and the other on the surface of the CFRP strip. The results of this study indicate that the debonding strain is a function of CFRP strip width and that the failure patterns of beams are significantly affected by the CFRP reinforcement ratio.
Investigation of Nano-Scale Segregation in Nanostructured Ferritic Alloy 14YWT after Heavy Ion Irradiation
Authors: Cai Junfeng , Han Wentuo , Wan Farong , He Jianchao
Published: October 2022

Oxide-dispersion-strengthened (ODS) steels, which contain nano-scale Y-Ti-O particles, are being considered for high-temperature radiation environments of nuclear reactors. It is important to accurately characterize the structure of grain boundaries and understand the behavior of segregation at grain boundaries in ODS steels during irradiation. The effect of heavy ion irradiation at 700 °C on Nanostructured Ferritic Alloy 14YWT was investigated using Atom Probe Tomography. Enrichment of Cr occurs at the grain boundaries as well as at nano oxide particle surfaces in the unirradiated sample. The enrichment of Ti and Y at a grain boundary corresponds with Y-Ti-O nano oxide particles with larger size compared to those in the grain, and the Cr enrichment is particularly accentuated at these larger nano oxide particles. The segregation of W occurs at the grain boundaries that are without nano oxide particles. O is segregated at grain boundaries without oxide particles after irradiation. The segregation behavior of Cr, W, Ti, and Y at the grain boundary in the irradiated samples is similar to that in the unirradiated sample. The nano oxide particles embedded in the grain boundary are a primary reason for the increase in Cr segregation at the grain boundary.
Alternative Method to Estimate the Fourier Expansions and Its Rate of Change
Authors: Rodríguez-Maldonado Johnny , Posadas-Castillo Cornelio , Zambrano-Serrano Ernesto
Published: October 2022

This paper presents a methodology to obtain the Fourier coefficients (FCs) and the derivative Fourier coefficients (DFCs) from an input signal. Based on the Taylor series that approximates the input signal into a trigonometric signal model through the Kalman filter, consequently, the signal’s and successive derivatives’ coefficients are obtained with the state prediction and the state matrix inverse. Compared to discrete Fourier transform (DFT), the new class of filters provides noise reduction and sidelobe suppression advantages. Additionally, the proposed Taylor–Kalman–Fourier algorithm (TKFA) achieves a null-flat frequency response around the frequency operation. Moreover, with the proposed TKFA method, the decrement in the inter-harmonic amplitude is more significant than that obtained with the Kalman–Fourier algorithm (KFA), and the neighborhood of the null-flat frequency is expanded. Finally, the approximation of the input signal and its derivative can be performed with a sum of functions related to the estimated coefficients and their respective harmonics.
A Novel Universal Torque Control of Switched Reluctance Motors for Electric Vehicles
Authors: Hamouda Mahmoud , Al-Amyal Fahad , Odinaev Ismoil , Ibrahim Mohamed N. , Számel László
Published: October 2022

Due to their advantages, switched reluctance motors (SRMs) are interesting solutions for electric vehicle (EV) propulsion. However, they have the main drawback of high torque ripple. This paper develops a universal torque control (UTC) technique for SRM that can fulfill all vehicle requirements under a wide range of speeds. The developed UTC involves two different control techniques. It utilizes the direct instantaneous torque control (DITC) strategy in a low speed region, and the average torque control (ATC) strategy in high speeds. The selection of DITC and ATC is made based on their performance regarding torque ripple, torque/current ratio, and efficiency. Moreover, a novel transition control between the two control techniques is introduced. The results show the ability of the proposed UTC to achieve vehicle requirements while obtaining all the benefits of torque control over the possible range of speeds. The proposed UTC provides the best performance regarding minimum torque ripple, maximum torque/current ratio, and maximum efficiency over the whole speed range. The transition control achieves a smooth operation without any disturbances. The transition control helps to simplify the overall control algorithm, aiming to have a feasible and practical UTC without a complicated control structure.
Parameter Estimation of Exponentiated Half-Logistic Distribution for Left-Truncated and Right-Censored Data
Authors: Song Xifan , Xiong Ziyu , Gui Wenhao
Published: October 2022

Left-truncated and right-censored data are widely used in lifetime experiments, biomedicine, labor economics, and actuarial science. This article discusses how to resolve the problems of statistical inferences on the unknown parameters of the exponentiated half-logistic distribution based on left-truncated and right-censored data. In the beginning, maximum likelihood estimations are calculated. Then, asymptotic confidence intervals are constructed by using the observed Fisher information matrix. To cope with the small sample size scenario, we employ the percentile bootstrap method and the bootstrap-t method for the establishment of confidence intervals. In addition, Bayesian estimations under both symmetric and asymmetric loss functions are addressed. Point estimates are computed by Tierney–Kadane’s approximation and importance sampling procedure, which is also applied to establishing corresponding highest posterior density credible intervals. Lastly, simulated and real data sets are presented and analyzed to show the effectiveness of the proposed methods.
Joint Resource and Trajectory Optimization for Energy Efficiency Maximization in UAV-Based Networks
Authors: Tung Tran Van , An To Truong , Lee Byung Moo
Published: October 2022

The explosive growth of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs)-based networks has accelerated in recent years. One of the crucial tasks of a UAV-based network is managing and allocating resources, including time, power, fly trajectory, and energy resources. We investigate a UAV-based network that gathers information from smart devices, sensor devices, and IoT devices (IDs) with respect to energy efficiency (EE) maximization. The EE of users served by the UAV over the time slots of a cycle is maximized through three categories: UAV trajectory optimization, power allocation, and time slot assignment. However, these are non-convex problems that are very difficult to solve. To solve the problem efficiently, we divide it step by step and convert the non-convex optimization problem into an equivalent convex optimization problem, optimizing each equivalent problem over each variable while other variables are fixed. Firstly, we perform a UAV trajectory optimization with a different number of ground users. Secondly, the Dinkelbach method is used to construct a non-convex fractional power allocation problem. In addition, we develop an algorithm to distribute time slots to all users, which continually raises the EE value. Eventually, a scheme is provided to sequentially update the method to each equivalent problem. The numerical results provide evidence that by solving the proposed sum-rate maximization problem, the performance of ground users has significantly improved with the support of the UAV-based network.
PEBA/PDMS Composite Multilayer Hollow Fiber Membranes for the Selective Separation of Butanol by Pervaporation
Authors: Arregoitia-Sarabia Carla , González-Revuelta Daniel , Fallanza Marcos , Ortiz Alfredo , Gorri Daniel
Published: October 2022

The growing interest in the production of biofuels has motivated numerous studies on separation techniques that allow the separation/concentration of organics produced by fermentation, improving productivity and performance. In this work, the preparation and characterization of new butanol-selective membranes was reported. The prepared membranes had a hollow fiber configuration and consisted of two dense selective layers: a first layer of PEBA and a second (outer) layer of PDMS. The membranes were tested to evaluate their separation performance in the selective removal of organics from a synthetic ABE solution. Membranes with various thicknesses were prepared in order to evaluate the effect of the PDMS protective layer on permeant fluxes and membrane selectivity. The mass transport phenomena in the pervaporation process were characterized using a resistances-in-series model. The experimental results showed that PEBA as the material of the dense separating layer is the most favorable in terms of selectivity towards butanol with respect to the other components of the feed stream. The addition of a protective layer of PDMS allows the sealing of possible pinholes; however, its thickness should be kept as small as possible since permeation fluxes decrease with increasing thickness of PDMS and this material also has greater selectivity towards acetone compared to other feed components.
Gut Microbiota-Derived Short-Chain Fatty Acids: Impact on Cancer Treatment Response and Toxicities
Authors: Al-Qadami Ghanyah H. , Secombe Kate R. , Subramaniam Courtney B. , Wardill Hannah R. , Bowen Joanne M.
Published: October 2022

The gut microbiota has emerged as a key modulator of cancer treatment responses in terms of both efficacy and toxicity. This effect is clearly mediated by processes impacting the activation and modulation of immune responses. More recently, the ability to regulate chemotherapeutic drug metabolism has also emerged as a key driver of response, although the direct mechanisms have yet to be fully elucidated. Through fermentation, the gut microbiota can produce several types of metabolites, including short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). SCFAs play an important role in maintaining epithelial barrier functions and intestinal homeostasis, with recent work suggesting that SCFAs can modulate response to cancer treatments and influence both anti-tumor immune response and inflammatory-related side effects. In this review, we will discuss the importance of SCFAs and their implications for cancer treatment response and toxicities.
Analysis of the Selective Flotation of Elemental Gold from Pyrite Using Diisobutyl Monothiophosphate
Authors: Liu Weiping , Miller Jan Dean , Sun Wei , Hu Yuehua
Published: October 2022

The gold contained in copper ores is an important resource for the gold industry. In some cases, elemental gold is present and can be recovered by selective flotation. It has been reported that the gold grade and recovery can be increased, without sacrificing the copper recovery, by replacing AERO 3477 (diisobutyl dithiophosphate (DTP)) with AERO 7249 (mixture of diisobutyl monothiophosphate (MTP) and diisobutyl dithiophosphate (DTP)) as the main collector. The fundamental understanding of the improvement in selectivity with the addition of MTP in the flotation of elemental gold from pyrite is limited and is the subject of this paper. In this regard, the hydrophobicity and selectivity of DTP and MTP in the flotation of pyrite and gold are compared and discussed. Density functional theory (DFT) was used to examine the electron density, reactivity, highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO), and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) of the MTP and DTP collectors. The interaction energies for the adsorption of MTP and DTP from fresh pyrite, oxidized pyrite and gold surfaces were calculated and discussed with respect to the experimental results reported in the literature. Molecular dynamics simulation (MDS) was used to examine the adsorption state of MTP and DTP on the pyrite (100) and Au (111) surfaces.