bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biological Safety Evaluation and Surface Modification of Biocompatible Ti–15Zr–4Nb Alloy
Authors: Okazaki Yoshimitsu , Katsuda Shin-ichi
Published: February 2021

We performed biological safety evaluation tests of three Ti–Zr alloys under accelerated extraction condition. We also conducted histopathological analysis of long-term implantation of pure V, Al, Ni, Zr, Nb, and Ta metals as well as Ni–Ti and high-V-containing Ti–15V–3Al–3Sn alloys in rats. The effect of the dental implant (screw) shape on morphometrical parameters was investigated using rabbits. Moreover, we examined the maximum pullout properties of grit-blasted Ti–Zr alloys after their implantation in rabbits. The biological safety evaluation tests of three Ti–Zr alloys (Ti–15Zr–4Nb, Ti–15Zr–4Nb–1Ta, and Ti–15Zr–4Nb–4Ta) showed no adverse (negative) effects of either normal or accelerated extraction. No bone was formed around the pure V and Ni implants. The Al, Zr, Nb, and Ni–Ti implants were surrounded by new bone. The new bone formed around Ti–Ni and high-V-containing Ti alloys tended to be thinner than that formed around Ti–Zr and Ti–6Al–4V alloys. The rate of bone formation on the threaded portion in the Ti–15Zr–4Nb–4Ta dental implant was the same as that on a smooth surface. The maximum pullout loads of the grit- and shot-blasted Ti–Zr alloys increased linearly with implantation period in rabbits. The pullout load of grit-blasted Ti–Zr alloy rods was higher than that of shot-blasted ones. The surface roughness (Ra) and area ratio of residual Al2O3 particles of the Ti–15Zr–4Nb alloy surface grit-blasted with Al2O3 particles were the same as those of the grit-blasted Alloclassic stem surface. It was clarified that the grit-blasted Ti–15Zr–4Nb alloy could be used for artificial hip joint stems.
The Topological Entropy Conjecture
Authors: Luo Lvlin
Published: February 2021

For a compact Hausdorff space X, let J be the ordered set associated with the set of all finite open covers of X such that there exists nJ, where nJ is the dimension of X associated with ∂. Therefore, we have Hˇp(X;Z), where 0≤p≤n=nJ. For a continuous self-map f on X, let α∈J be an open cover of X and Lf(α)={Lf(U)|U∈α}. Then, there exists an open fiber cover L˙f(α) of Xf induced by Lf(α). In this paper, we define a topological fiber entropy entL(f) as the supremum of ent(f,L˙f(α)) through all finite open covers of Xf={Lf(U);U⊂X}, where Lf(U) is the f-fiber of U, that is the set of images fn(U) and preimages f−n(U) for n∈N. Then, we prove the conjecture logρ≤entL(f) for f being a continuous self-map on a given compact Hausdorff space X, where ρ is the maximum absolute eigenvalue of f*, which is the linear transformation associated with f on the Čech homology group Hˇ*(X;Z)=⨁i=0nHˇi(X;Z).
Influence of Bloomberg’s Investor Sentiment Index: Evidence from European Union Financial Sector
Authors: González-Sánchez Mariano , Morales de Vega M. Encina
Published: February 2021

A part of the financial literature has attempted to explain idiosyncratic asset shocks through investor behavior in response to company news and events. As a result, there has been an increase in the development of different investor sentiment measurements. This paper analyses whether the Bloomberg investor sentiment index has a causal relationship with the abnormal returns and volume shocks of major European Union (EU) financial companies through a sample of 85 financial institutions over 4 years (2014–2018) on a daily basis. The i.i.d. shocks are obtained from a factorial asset pricing model and ARMA-GARCH-type process; then we checked whether there is both individual and joint causality between the standardized residuals. The results show that the explanatory capacity of the shocks of the firm Bloomberg sentiment index is low, although there is empirical evidence that the effects correspond more to the situation of the financial subsector (banks, real estate, financial services and insurance) than to the company itself, with which we conclude that the sentiment index analyzed reflects a sectorial effect more than individual one.
A Note on Killing Calculus on Riemannian Manifolds
Authors: Deshmukh Sharief , Ishan Amira , Al-Shaikh Suha B. , Özgür Cihan
Published: February 2021

In this article, it has been observed that a unit Killing vector field ξ on an n-dimensional Riemannian manifold (M,g), influences its algebra of smooth functions C∞(M). For instance, if h is an eigenfunction of the Laplace operator Δ with eigenvalue λ, then ξ(h) is also eigenfunction with same eigenvalue. Additionally, it has been observed that the Hessian Hh(ξ,ξ) of a smooth function h∈C∞(M) defines a self adjoint operator ⊡ξ and has properties similar to most of properties of the Laplace operator on a compact Riemannian manifold (M,g). We study several properties of functions associated to the unit Killing vector field ξ. Finally, we find characterizations of the odd dimensional sphere using properties of the operator ⊡ξ and the nontrivial solution of Fischer–Marsden differential equation, respectively.
The Application of Seaweed Polysaccharides and Their Derived Products with Potential for the Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Bauer Sarah , Jin Weihua , Zhang Fuming , Linhardt Robert J.
Published: February 2021

Neurodegenerative diseases are among the most widespread diseases affecting humans, and the number of patients is only rising. Seaweed polysaccharide extracts show significant neuroprotective and reparative activities. Seaweed polysaccharides might provide the next big breakthrough in neurodegenerative disease treatment. This paper reviews the applications of seaweed polysaccharides as potential treatments of neurodegenerative diseases. The particular focus is on fucoidan, ulvan, and their derivatives as potential agents to treat Alzheimer’s disease. This review provides a critical update on the progress in this important research area.
Isoquinolinequinone Derivatives from a Marine Sponge (Haliclona sp.) Regulate Inflammation in In Vitro System of Intestine
Authors: Kim Yun , Ji Yeong , Kim Na-Hyun , Van Tu Nguyen , Rho Jung-Rae , Jeong Eun
Published: February 2021

Using bio-guided fractionation and based on the inhibitory activities of nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), eight isoquinolinequinone derivatives (1–8) were isolated from the marine sponge Haliclona sp. Among these, methyl O-demethylrenierate (1) is a noble ester, whereas compounds 2 and 3 are new O-demethyl derivatives of known isoquinolinequinones. Compound 8 was assigned as a new 21-dehydroxyrenieramycin F. Anti-inflammatory activities of the isolated compounds were tested in a co-culture system of human epithelial Caco-2 and THP-1 macrophages. The isolated derivatives showed variable activities. O-demethyl renierone (5) showed the highest activity, while 3 and 7 showed moderate activities. These bioactive isoquinolinequinones inhibited lipopolysaccharide and interferon gamma-induced production of NO and PGE2. Expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase, cyclooxygenase-2, and the phosphorylation of MAPKs were down-regulated in response to the inhibition of NF-κB nuclear translocation. In addition, nuclear translocation was markedly promoted with a subsequent increase in the expression of HO-1. Structure-activity relationship studies showed that the hydroxyl group in 3 and 5, and the N-formyl group in 7 may be key functional groups responsible for their anti-inflammatory activities. These findings suggest the potential use of Haliclona sp. and its metabolites as pharmaceuticals treating inflammation-related diseases including inflammatory bowel disease.
Evaluation of Antinociceptive Effects of Chitosan-Coated Liposomes Entrapping the Selective Kappa Opioid Receptor Agonist U50,488 in Mice
Authors: Mititelu Tartau Liliana , Bogdan Maria , Buca Beatrice Rozalina , Pauna Ana Maria , Tartau Cosmin Gabriel , Dijmarescu Lorena Anda , Popa Eliza Gratiela
Published: February 2021

Background and Objectives: The selective kappa opioid receptor agonist U50,488 was reported to have analgesic, cough suppressant, diuretic and other beneficial properties. The aim of our study was to analyze the effects of some original chitosan-coated liposomes entrapping U50,488 in somatic and visceral nociceptive sensitivity in mice. Materials and Methods: The influence on the somatic pain was assessed using a tail flick test by counting the tail reactivity to thermal noxious stimulation. The nociceptive visceral estimation was performed using the writhing test in order to evaluate the behavioral manifestations occurring as a reaction to the chemical noxious peritoneal irritation with 0.6% acetic acid (10 mL/kbw). The animals were treated orally, at the same time, with a single dose of: distilled water 0.1 mL/10 gbw; 50 mg/kbw U50,488; 50 mg/kbw U50,488 entrapped in chitosan-coated liposomes, according to the group they were randomly assigned. Results: The use of chitosan-coated liposomesas carriers for U50,488 induced antinociceptive effects that began to manifest after 2 h, andwere prolonged but with a lower intensity than those caused by the free selective kappa opioid in both tests. Conclusion: In this experimental model, the oral administration of nanovesicles containing the selective kappa opioid agonist U50,488 determined a prolonged analgesic outcome in the tail flick test, as well as in the writhing test.
Emergency Medical Teams Interventions due to Cardiovascular Diseases in 2018: Polish Regional Observational Study
Authors: Nadolny Klaudiusz , Wierzbik-Strońska Magdalena , Ładny Jerzy R. , Grabarek Beniamin O. , Warmusz Oliwia , Boroń Dariusz , Ostenda Aleksander
Published: February 2021

Background and objectives: The goal of this work was to assess the interventions for cardiovascular causes (ICD-10: I) and analyze the time between the request for intervention and the arrival of the Medical Emergency Team realized by the Voivodeship Rescue Service in Katowice in the period between 1 January 2018 to 31 December 2018. Materials and Methods: Analysis of the characteristics of the interventions was completed based on the information contained on the dispatch order cards and medical emergency services. Statistical analysis was done using the Chi-square test (p < 0.05). Results: Out of 211,548 cases, 26,672 were associated with cardiovascular diseases. It can be observed that the large majority of interventions took place in urban areas (89.98%; 23,998 cases), whereas only 11.02% took place in rural areas (2674 cases). The most common cause for medical interventions being made by the Medical Emergency Team was primary hypertension—11,649 cases. The average arrival time to urban areas was 9 min and 12 s ± 3 min and 54 s, whereas for rural areas it was 11 min and 57 s ± 4 min and 32 s (p < 0.05). Conclusions: It can be observed that the Medical Emergency System in Katowice operates accordingly with the intentions of the legislator. The obtained data also indicates that there is a high societal awareness of the residents about the purpose of the Medical Emergency Team.
Fabrication and Physicochemical Study of B2SA-Grafted Poly(vinyl Alcohol)–Graphene Hybrid Membranes for Dehydration of Bioethanol by Pervaporation
Authors: Kalahal Prakash B. , Kulkarni Akshay S. , Sajjan Ashok M. , Khan T. M. Yunus , Anjum Badruddin Irfan , Kamangar Sarfaraz , Banapurmath Nagaraj R. , Ayachit Narasimha H. , Naik Manu L. , Marakatti Vijaykumar S.
Published: February 2021

Tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS)-crosslinked poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) solution was prepared and treated with benzaldehyde 2 sulphonic sodium salt acid (B2SA) for sulfonation. Different contents of graphene were incorporated into B2SA-grafted PVA–TEOS hybrid membrane to improve the membrane stability, mechanical strength, and overall pervaporation performance of the membranes. Membranes were fabricated using the casting technique. Developed membranes were then analyzed for their physicochemical changes by means of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), scanning electron microscope (SEM), wide-angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), contact angle analysis (CA), and mechanical strength. The lower d-spacing value observed in WAXD was evidence for the decreased inter-chain distance between the polymer chains. DSC exhibited the enhanced thermal stability of the developed membranes compared to the plane PVA membrane with enhancement in Tg value (106 °C), which was well above the pervaporation experimental temperature. Incorporation of graphene induced higher mechanical strength to the fabricated membranes. Further, the membranes were tested for the pervaporation separation of bioethanol. All the membranes were stable throughout the pervaporation studies, with M-2 G showing the total permeation flux of 11.66 × 10−2 kg/(m2 h) at 30 °C.
A Comparative Electrochemical and Morphological Investigation on the Behavior of NiCr and CoCr Dental Alloys at Various Temperatures
Authors: Golgovici Florentina , Prodana Mariana , Ionascu Florentina Gina , Demetrescu Ioana
Published: February 2021

The purpose of our study is to compare the behavior of two reprocessed dental alloys (NiCr and CoCr) at different temperatures considering the idea that food and drinks in the oral cavity create various compositions at different pH levels; the novelty is the investigation of temperature effect on corrosion parameters and ion release of dental alloys. Electrochemical stability was studied together with morphology, elemental composition and ions release determination. The results obtained are in good concordance: electrochemistry studies reveal that the corrosion rate is increasing by increasing the temperature. From SEM coupled with EDS, the oxide film formed on the surface of the alloys is stable at low temperatures and a trend to break after 310K. ICP-MS results evidence that in accordance with increasing temperature, the quantities of ions released from the alloys immersed in artificial saliva also increase, though they still remain small, less than 20 ppm.
Synthesis of FeSi-Al2O3 Composites by Autowave Combustion with Metallothermic Reduction
Authors: Yeh Chun-Liang , Chen Kuan-Ting
Published: February 2021

Fabrication of FeSi-Al2O3 composites with a molar ratio of FeSi/Al2O3 ranging from 1.2 to 4.5 was conducted by the self-propagating high-temperature synthesis (SHS) method. The synthesis reaction involved metallothermic reduction of Fe2O3 and SiO2 by Al and the chemical interaction of Fe and Si. Two combustion systems were examined: one contained thermite reagents of 0.6Fe2O3 + 0.6SiO2 + 2Al, and the other had Fe2O3 + 2Al to mix with different amounts of Fe and Si powders. A thermodynamic analysis indicated that metallothermic reduction of oxide precursors was sufficiently exothermic to sustain the combustion reaction in a self-propagating mode. The SHS reaction carrying out co-reduction of Fe2O3 and SiO2 was less exothermic, and was applied to synthesize products with FeSi/Al2O3 = 1.2–2.5, while the reaction reducing only Fe2O3 was more energetic and was adopted for the composites with FeSi/Al2O3 = 2.5–4.5. Moreover, the former had a larger activation energy, i.e., Ea = 215.3 kJ/mol, than the latter, i.e., Ea = 180.4 kJ/mol. For both reaction systems, the combustion wave velocity and temperature decreased with increasing FeSi content. Formation of FeSi-Al2O3 in situ composites with different amounts of FeSi was achieved. Additionally, a trivial amount of aluminum silicate was detected in the products of high FeSi contents due to dissolution of Si into Al2O3 during the SHS process.
Studies of Post-Fabrication Heat Treatment of L-PBF-Inconel 718: Effects of Hold Time on Microstructure, Annealing Twins, and Hardness
Authors: Tucho Wakshum M. , Hansen Vidar
Published: February 2021

The widely adopted temperature for solid solution heat treatment (ST) for the conventionally fabricated Inconel 718 is 1100 °C for a hold time of 1 h or less. This ST scheme is, however, not enough to dissolve Laves and annihilate dislocations completely in samples fabricated with Laser metal powder bed fusion (L-PBF) additive manufacturing (AM)-Inconel 718. Despite this, the highest hardness obtained after aging for ST temperatures (970–1250 °C) is at 1100 °C/1 as we have ascertained in our previous studies. The unreleased residual stresses in the retained lattice defects potentially affect other properties of the material. Hence, this work aims to investigate if a longer hold time of ST at 1100 °C will lead to complete recrystallization while maintaining the hardness after aging or not. For this study, L-PBF-Inconel 718 samples were ST at 1100 °C at various hold times (1, 3, 6, 9, 16, or 24 h) and aged to study the effects on microstructure and hardness. In addition, a sample was directly aged to study the effects of bypassing ST. The samples (ST and aged) gain hardness by 43–49%. The high density of annealing twins evolved during 3 h of ST and only slightly varies for longer ST.
Thermal Sensors for Contactless Temperature Measurements, Occupancy Detection, and Automatic Operation of Appliances during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Review
Authors: Moisello Elisabetta , Malcovati Piero , Bonizzoni Edoardo
Published: February 2021

The worldwide spread of COVID-19 has forced us to adapt to a new way of life made of social distancing, avoidance of physical contact and temperature checks before entering public places, in order to successfully limit the virus circulation. The role of technology has been fundamental in order to support the required changes to our lives: thermal sensors, in particular, are especially suited to address the needs arisen during the pandemic. They are, in fact, very versatile devices which allow performing contactless human body temperature measurements, presence detection and people counting, and automation of appliances and systems, thus avoiding the need to touch them. This paper reviews the theory behind thermal detectors, considering the different types of sensors proposed during the last ten years, while focusing on their possible employment for COVID-19 related applications.
A Review on Microstructural Features and Mechanical Properties of Wheels/Rails Cladded by Laser Cladding
Authors: Wang Xinlin , Lei Lei , Yu Han
Published: February 2021

The service life of rails would be remarkably reduced owing to the increase of axle load, which can induce the occurrence of damages such as cracks, collapse, fat edges, etc. Laser cladding, which can enhance the mechanical properties of the rail by creating a coating, has received great attention in the area of the rails due to the attractive advantages such as low input heat, small heat-affected zone, and small deformation. In this paper, recent developments in the microstructural characteristics and mechanical properties of a cladded layer on the rail are reviewed. The method of process optimization for enhancing the properties of a cladded layer are discussed. Finally, the trend of future development is forecasted.
Evaluation of Ogataea (Hansenula) polymorpha for Hyaluronic Acid Production
Authors: Manfrão-Netto João Heitor Colombelli , Queiroz Enzo Bento , Rodrigues Kelly Assis , Coelho Cintia M. , Paes Hugo Costa , Rech Elibio Leopoldo , Parachin Nádia Skorupa
Published: February 2021

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a biopolymer formed by UDP-glucuronic acid and UDP-N-acetyl-glucosamine disaccharide units linked by β-1,4 and β-1,3 glycosidic bonds. It is widely employed in medical and cosmetic procedures. HA is synthesized by hyaluronan synthase (HAS), which catalyzes the precursors’ ligation in the cytosol, elongates the polymer chain, and exports it to the extracellular space. Here, we engineer Ogataea (Hansenula) polymorpha for HA production by inserting the genes encoding UDP-glucose 6-dehydrogenase, for UDP-glucuronic acid production, and HAS. Two microbial HAS, from Streptococcus zooepidemicus (hasAs) and Pasteurella multocida (hasAp), were evaluated separately. Additionally, we assessed a genetic switch using integrases in O. polymorpha to uncouple HA production from growth. Four strains were constructed containing both has genes under the control of different promoters. In the strain containing the genetic switch, HA production was verified by a capsule-like layer around the cells by scanning electron microscopy in the first 24 h of cultivation. For the other strains, the HA was quantified only after 48 h and in an optimized medium, indicating that HA production in O. polymorpha is limited by cultivation conditions. Nevertheless, these results provide a proof-of-principle that O. polymorpha is a suitable host for HA production.
Timely Control of Gastrointestinal Eubiosis: A Strategic Pillar of Pig Health
Authors: Trevisi Paolo , Luise Diana , Correa Federico , Bosi Paolo
Published: February 2021

The pig gastrointestinal tract (GIT) is an open ecosystem in which microorganisms and their host are mutually involved and continually adapt to different factors and problems which may or may not be host dependent or due to the production system. The aim of the present review is to highlight the factors affecting the GIT microbial balance in young pigs, focusing on the pre- and post-weaning phases, to define a road map for improving pig health and the production efficiency of the food chain. Birth and weaning body weight, physiological maturation, colostrum and milk (composition and intake), genetic background, environmental stressors and management practices, antibiotic use and diet composition are considered. Overall, there is a lack of knowledge regarding the effect that some factors, including weaning age, the use of creep feed, the composition of the colostrum and milk and the use of antibiotics, may have on the gut microbiome of piglets. Furthermore, the information on the gut microbiome of piglets is mainly based on the taxonomy description, while there is a lack of knowledge regarding the functional modification of the microbiota, essential for the exploitation of microbiota potential for modulating pig physiology.
TAL Effector Repertoires of Strains of Xanthomonas phaseoli pv. manihotis in Commercial Cassava Crops Reveal High Diversity at the Country Scale
Authors: Zárate-Chaves Carlos A. , Osorio-Rodríguez Daniela , Mora Rubén E. , Pérez-Quintero Álvaro L. , Dereeper Alexis , Restrepo Silvia , López Camilo E. , Szurek Boris , Bernal Adriana
Published: February 2021

Transcription activator-like effectors (TALEs) play a significant role for pathogenesis in several xanthomonad pathosystems. Xanthomonas phaseoli pv. manihotis (Xpm), the causal agent of Cassava Bacterial Blight (CBB), uses TALEs to manipulate host metabolism. Information about Xpm TALEs and their target genes in cassava is scarce, but has been growing in the last few years. We aimed to characterize the TALE diversity in Colombian strains of Xpm and to screen for TALE-targeted gene candidates. We selected eighteen Xpm strains based on neutral genetic diversity at a country scale to depict the TALE diversity among isolates from cassava productive regions. RFLP analysis showed that Xpm strains carry TALomes with a bimodal size distribution, and affinity-based clustering of the sequenced TALEs condensed this variability mainly into five clusters. We report on the identification of 13 novel variants of TALEs in Xpm, as well as a functional variant with 22 repeats that activates the susceptibility gene MeSWEET10a, a previously reported target of TAL20Xam668. Transcriptomics and EBE prediction analyses resulted in the selection of several TALE-targeted candidate genes and two potential cases of functional convergence. This study provides new bases for assessing novel potential TALE targets in the Xpm–cassava interaction, which could be important factors that define the fate of the infection.
Enhanced Viral Activity in the Surface Microlayer of the Arctic and Antarctic Oceans
Authors: Vaqué Dolors , Boras Julia A. , Arrieta Jesús Maria , Agustí Susana , Duarte Carlos M. , Sala Maria Montserrat
Published: February 2021

The ocean surface microlayer (SML), with physicochemical characteristics different from those of subsurface waters (SSW), results in dense and active viral and microbial communities that may favor virus–host interactions. Conversely, wind speed and/or UV radiation could adversely affect virus infection. Furthermore, in polar regions, organic and inorganic nutrient inputs from melting ice may increase microbial activity in the SML. Since the role of viruses in the microbial food web of the SML is poorly understood in polar oceans, we aimed to study the impact of viruses on prokaryotic communities in the SML and in the SSW in Arctic and Antarctic waters. We hypothesized that a higher viral activity in the SML than in the SSW in both polar systems would be observed. We measured viral and prokaryote abundances, virus-mediated mortality on prokaryotes, heterotrophic and phototrophic nanoflagellate abundance, and environmental factors. In both polar zones, we found small differences in environmental factors between the SML and the SSW. In contrast, despite the adverse effect of wind, viral and prokaryote abundances and virus-mediated mortality on prokaryotes were higher in the SML than in the SSW. As a consequence, the higher carbon flux released by lysed cells in the SML than in the SSW would increase the pool of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and be rapidly used by other prokaryotes to grow (the viral shunt). Thus, our results suggest that viral activity greatly contributes to the functioning of the microbial food web in the SML, which could influence the biogeochemical cycles of the water column.
Influence of Soil and Water Conservation Measures on Soil Microbial Communities in a Citrus Orchard of Southeast China
Authors: Wu Bobo , Wang Peng , Devlin Adam T. , Xiao Shengsheng , Shu Wang , Zhang Hua , Ding Mingjun
Published: February 2021

Soil microbes play a crucial role in ecosystem function. Here, the effects of soil and water conservation measures on soil microbial community structures, biodiversity, and co-occurrence networks are investigated and compared. We sampled soils at three different depths (0–10 cm, 10–20 cm and 20–40 cm) in a citrus orchard that uses long-term soil and water conservation measures, which includes Bermuda grass strip intercropping (BS), Bermuda grass full coverage (BF), Radish–soybean crop rotation strip intercropping (RS) and clear tillage orchards (CT). Results demonstrated that BS and BF yields a significant increase in bacterial richness and diversity of fungal in soils, while BF contains more beneficial microbial taxa, especially those with degrading and nutrient cycling capabilities. Microbial community structures differed significantly among the applied measures. In addition, co-occurrence networks under BS, BF and RS were more complex and robust than that of CT, and the stability of the network in BF was the highest. Microbial interactive stability and potential interactions in bacterial networks were stronger than those of fungi. The distribution of dominant phyla showed that Chloroflexi and Ascomycota dominated the different soil and water conservation measures. Proteobacteria and Ascomycota are revealed to be keystone species in bacterial networks and fungal networks, respectively, while Proteobacteria was the keystone species in microbial networks. Though the relative abundance of Chloroflexi turned out to have increased among the four measures, the relative abundance for Proteobacteria, Acidobacteria and Actinobacteria all decreased along the soil profile, with Acidobacteria under BS to be an exception. Soils under BS and BF had higher total nitrogen, microbial biomass carbon and organic carbon than CT and RS. Organic carbon(C) and total nitrogen(N) in soil were the major drivers of these bacterial community patterns, while there was no significant correlation between them and fungi. Overall, BF increases soil nutrients and microbial diversity, and also promotes ecological stability and interrelations among microbial taxa that collectively improve soil quality in the citrus orchard studied. Therefore, we recommended BF to be an ideal application for citrus orchards of southeast China.
A Comparative Study of Machine Learning Models with Hyperparameter Optimization Algorithm for Mapping Mineral Prospectivity
Authors: Lin Nan , Chen Yongliang , Liu Haiqi , Liu Hanlin
Published: February 2021

Selecting internal hyperparameters, which can be set by the automatic search algorithm, is important to improve the generalization performance of machine learning models. In this study, the geological, remote sensing and geochemical data of the Lalingzaohuo area in Qinghai province were researched. A multi-source metallogenic information spatial data set was constructed by calculating the Youden index for selecting potential evidence layers. The model for mapping mineral prospectivity of the study area was established by combining two swarm intelligence optimization algorithms, namely the bat algorithm (BA) and the firefly algorithm (FA), with different machine learning models. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) and prediction-area (P-A) curves were used for performance evaluation and showed that the two algorithms had an obvious optimization effect. The BA and FA differentiated in improving multilayer perceptron (MLP), AdaBoost and one-class support vector machine (OCSVM) models; thus, there was no optimization algorithm that was consistently superior to the other. However, the accuracy of the machine learning models was significantly enhanced after optimizing the hyperparameters. The area under curve (AUC) values of the ROC curve of the optimized machine learning models were all higher than 0.8, indicating that the hyperparameter optimization calculation was effective. In terms of individual model improvement, the accuracy of the FA-AdaBoost model was improved the most significantly, with the AUC value increasing from 0.8173 to 0.9597 and the prediction/area (P/A) value increasing from 3.156 to 10.765, where the mineral targets predicted by the model occupied 8.63% of the study area and contained 92.86% of the known mineral deposits. The targets predicted by the improved machine learning models are consistent with the metallogenic geological characteristics, indicating that the swarm intelligence optimization algorithm combined with the machine learning model is an efficient method for mineral prospectivity mapping.
The Cr(VI) Stability in Contaminated Coastal Groundwater: Salinity as a Driving Force
Authors: Eliopoulos Ioannis-Porfyrios D. , Eliopoulos George D. , Economou-Eliopoulos Maria
Published: February 2021

Chromium concentrations in seawater are less than 0.5 μg/L, but the Cr(VI) in contaminated coastal groundwater affected by Cr-bearing rocks/ores and/or human activities, coupled with the intrusion of seawater may reach values of hundreds of μg/L. A potential explanation for the stability of the harmful Cr(VI) in contaminated coastal aquifers is still unexplored. The present study is an overview of new and literature data on the composition of coastal groundwater and seawater, aiming to provide potential relationships between Cr(VI) with major components in seawater and explain the elevated Cr(VI) concentrations. It is known that the oxidation of Cr(III) to Cr(VI) and the subsequent back-reduction of Cr(VI) processes, during the transport of the mobilized Cr(VI) in various aquifers, facilitate the natural attenuation process of Cr(VI). Moreover, the presented positive trend between B and Cr(VI) and negative trend between δ53Cr values and B concentration may suggest that seawater components significantly inhibit the Cr(VI) reduction into Cr(III), and provide insights on the role of the borate, [B(OH)4]− ions, a potential buffer, on the stability of Cr(VI) in coastal groundwater. Therefore, efforts are needed toward the prevention and/or minimization of the contamination by Cr(VI) of in coastal aquifers, which are influenced by the intrusion of seawater and are threatened by changes in sea level, due to climate change. The knowledge of the contamination sources, hotspots and monitoring of water salinization processes (geochemical mapping) for every coastal country may contribute to the optimization of agricultural management strategies.
On Hydromechanical Interaction during Propagation of Localized Damage in Rocks
Authors: Jameei A.A. , Pietruszczak S.
Published: February 2021

This paper provides a mathematical description of hydromechanical coupling associated with propagation of localized damage. The framework incorporates an embedded discontinuity approach and addresses the assessment of both hydraulic and mechanical properties in the region intercepted by a fracture. Within this approach, an internal length scale parameter is explicitly employed in the definition of equivalent permeability as well as the tangential stiffness operators. The effect of the progressive evolution of damage on the hydro-mechanical coupling is examined and an evolution law is derived governing the variation of equivalent permeability with the continuing deformation. The framework is verified by a numerical study involving 3D simulation of an axial splitting test carried out on a saturated sample under displacement and fluid pressure-controlled conditions. The finite element analysis incorporates the Polynomial-Pressure-Projection (PPP) stabilization technique and a fully implicit time integration scheme.
Metabolomics Insights of the Immunomodulatory Activities of Phlorizin and Phloretin on Human THP-1 Macrophages
Authors: Cambeiro-Pérez Noelia , González-Gómez Xiana , González-Barreiro Carmen , Pérez-Gregorio María Rosa , Fernandes Iva , Mateus Nuno , de Freitas Victor , Sánchez Borja , Martínez-Carballo Elena
Published: February 2021

Dihydrochalcones, phlorizin (PZ) and its aglycone phloretin (PT), have evidenced immunomodulatory effects through several mechanisms. However, the differential metabolic signatures that lead to these properties are largely unknown. Since macrophages play an important role in the immune response, our study aimed to characterise human THP-1 macrophages under PZ and PT exposure. A multiplatform-based untargeted metabolomics approach was used to reveal metabolites associated with the anti-inflammatory mechanisms triggered by the dihydrochalcones in LPS-stimulated macrophages, for the first time. Results showed differential phenotypic response in macrophages for all treatments. Dihydrochalcone treatment in LPS-stimulated macrophages mimics the response under normal conditions, suggesting inhibition of LPS response. Antagonistic effects of dihydrochalcones against LPS was mainly observed in glycerophospholipid and sphingolipid metabolism besides promoting amino acid biosynthesis. Moreover, PT showed greater metabolic activity than PZ. Overall, the findings of this study yielded knowledge about the mechanisms of action PZ and PT at metabolic level in modulating inflammatory response in human cells.
Enhanced Physical and Mechanical Properties of Nitrile-Butadiene Rubber Composites with N-Cetylpyridinium Bromide-Carbon Black
Authors: Kapitonov Egor A. , Petrova Natalia N. , Mukhin Vasilii V. , Nikiforov Leonid A. , Gogolev Vladimir D. , Shim Ee Le , Okhlopkova Aitalina A. , Cho Jin-Ho
Published: February 2021

The physical and mechanical properties of nitrile–butadiene rubber (NBR) composites with N-cetylpyridinium bromide-carbon black (CPB-CB) were investigated. Addition of 5 parts per hundred rubber (phr) of CPB-CB into NBR improved the tensile strength by 124%, vulcanization rate by 41%, shore hardness by 15%, and decreased the volumetric wear by 7% compared to those of the base rubber-CB composite.
Evaluation of Physiological Characteristics, Soluble Sugars, Organic Acids and Volatile Compounds in ‘Orin’ Apples (Malus domestica) at Different Ripening Stages
Authors: Yang Shunbo , Meng Zhipeng , Li Yanan , Chen Rongxin , Yang Yazhou , Zhao Zhengyang
Published: February 2021

‘Orin’ is a popular apple cultivar, which has a yellow-green appearance, pleasant taste, and unique aroma. However, few studies on the fruit quality characteristics of ‘Orin’ apples have been reported before. In this study, changes of the physiological characteristics were measured at different ripening stages, and the soluble sugars and organic acids were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Volatile compounds were identified using the headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). During the fruit ripening, the ‘Orin’ apple fruit weight, size, and total soluble solid were gradually increased by contrast with the titratable acidity, and the firmness decreased. The content of four soluble sugars reached the maximum at the 180 days after full bloom (DAFB) stage. Malic acid was measured as the most abundant organic acid in ‘Orin’ apples. Ethyl butyrate, hexyl propanoate, hexyl acetate and butyl acetate belonging to esters with high odor activity values (OAVs) could be responsible for the typical aroma of ‘Orin’ apples. The aim of this work was to provide information on the flavor characteristics of ‘Orin’ apples and promote this apple cultivar for marketing and processing in the future.
New Antiadhesive Hydrophobic Polysiloxanes
Authors: Nowacka Maria , Rygała Anna , Kręgiel Dorota , Kowalewska Anna
Published: February 2021

Intrinsic hydrophobicity is the reason for efficient bacterial settlement and biofilm growth on silicone materials. Those unwelcomed phenomena may play an important role in pathogen transmission. We have proposed an approach towards the development of new anti-biofilm strategies that resulted in novel antimicrobial hydrophobic silicones. Those functionalized polysiloxanes grafted with side 2-(carboxymethylthioethyl)-, 2-(n-propylamidomethylthioethyl)- and 2-(mercaptoethylamidomethylthioethyl)- groups showed a wide range of antimicrobial properties towards selected strains of bacteria (reference strains Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and water-borne isolates Agrobacterium tumefaciens, Aeromonas hydrophila), fungi (Aureobasidium pullulans) and algae (Chlorella vulgaris), which makes them valuable antibacterial and antibiofilm agents. Tested microorganisms showed various levels of biofilm formation, but particularly effective antibiofilm activity was demonstrated for bacterial isolate A. hydrophila with high adhesion abilities. In the case of modified surfaces, the relative coefficient of adhesion for this strain was 18 times lower in comparison to the control glass sample.
Antifeedant Effects and Repellent Activity of Loline Alkaloids from Endophyte-Infected Tall Fescue against Horn Flies, Haematobia irritans (Diptera: Muscidae)
Authors: Espinoza Javier , Chacón-Fuentes Manuel , Quiroz Andrés , Bardehle Leonardo , Escobar-Bahamondes Paul , Ungerfeld Emilio
Published: February 2021

Haematobia irritans is an obligate bloodsucking ectoparasite of cattle and is the global major pest of livestock production. Currently, H. irritans management is largely dependent upon broad-spectrum pesticides, which lately has led to the development of insecticide resistance. Thus, alternative control methods are necessary. Endophyte-infected grasses have been studied as an alternative due to their capability to biosynthesize alkaloids associated with anti-insect activities. Thus, the main aim of this study was to evaluate the antifeedant and repellent activity of lolines obtained from endophyte-infected tall fescue against H. irritans adults in laboratory conditions. The alkaloid extract (ALKE) was obtained by acid–base extraction. N-formyl loline (NFL) and N-acetyl loline (NAL) were isolated by preparative thin layer chromatography (pTLC) and column chromatography (CC), and the loline was prepared by acid hydrolysis of a NFL/NAL mixture. Loline identification was performed by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Feeding behavior was evaluated by a non-choice test, and olfactory response was evaluated using a Y-tube olfactometer. Accordingly, all samples showed antifeedant activities. NFL was the most antifeedant compound at 0.5 µg/µL and 1.0 µg/µL, and it was statistically equal to NAL but different to loline; however, NAL was not statistically different to loline. NFL and NAL at 0.25 µg/µL were more active than loline. All samples except loline exhibited spatial repellency in the olfactometer. Thus, the little or non-adverse effects for cattle and beneficial activities of those lolines make them suitable candidates for horn fly management.
Myrtus communis Essential Oil; Anti-Parasitic Effects and Induction of the Innate Immune System in Mice with Toxoplasma gondii Infection
Authors: Shaapan Raafat M. , Al-Abodi Hiba Riyadh , Alanazi Abdullah D. , Abdel-Shafy Sobhy , Rashidipour Marzieh , Shater Abdullah F. , Mahmoudvand Hossein
Published: February 2021

Background: Myrtus communis (M. communis) is a wild aromatic plant used for traditional herbal medicine that can be demonstrated in insecticidal, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activity of its essential oils (MCEO). Aim: The present study aimed to evaluate the prophylactic effects of M. communis essential oil (MCEO) against chronic toxoplasmosis induced by the Tehran strain of Toxoplasma gondii in mice. Methods: Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis was performed to determine the chemical composition of MCEO. Mice were then orally administrated with MCEO at the doses of 100, 200, and 300 mg/kg/day and also atovaquone 100 mg/kg for 21 days. On the 15th day, the mice were infected with the intraperitoneal inoculation of 20–25 tissue cysts from the Tehran strain of T. gondii. The mean numbers of brain tissue cysts and the mRNA levels of IL-12 and IFN-γ in mice of each tested group were measured. Results: By GC/MS, the major constituents were α-pinene (24.7%), 1,8-cineole (19.6%), and linalool (12.6%), respectively. The results demonstrated that the mean number of T. gondii tissue cysts in experimental groups Ex1 (p < 0.05), Ex2 (p < 0.001) and Ex3 (p < 0.001) was meaningfully reduced in a dose-dependent manner compared with the control group (C2). The mean diameter of tissue cyst was significantly reduced in mice of the experimental groups Ex2 (p < 0.01) and Ex3 (p < 0.001). The results demonstrated that although the mRNA levels of IFN-γ and IL-12 were elevated in all mice of experimental groups, a significant increase (p < 0.001) was observed in tested groups of Ex2 and Ex3 when compared with control groups. Conclusion: The findings of the present study demonstrated the potent prophylactic effects of MCEO especially in the doses 200 and 300 mg/kg in mice infected with T. gondii. Although the exceptional anti-Toxoplasma effects of MCEO and other possessions, such as improved innate immunity and low toxicity are positive topics, there is, however, a need for more proof from investigations in this field.
Tribological Performance Investigation of a Commercial Engine Oil Incorporating Reduced Graphene Oxide as Additive
Authors: Kaleli Hakan , Demirtaş Selman , Uysal Veli , Karnis Ioannis , Stylianakis Minas M. , Anastasiadis Spiros H. , Kim Dae-Eun
Published: February 2021

We investigated the tribological behavior of commercialized, fully synthetic engine oil upon the incorporation of reduced graphene oxide in seven different concentrations between 0.01 and 0.2 wt %. Stability of the prepared samples was assessed by turbidimetry and dynamic light scattering measurements, and their tribological properties through a reciprocating tribometer, using a steel ball on special cut steel blocks. The addition of 0.02 wt % of reduced graphene oxide led to an improvement of the tribological behavior compared to the pristine engine oil, by significantly lowering the friction coefficient by 5% in the boundary lubrication regime. Both the surfaces and the reduced graphene oxide additive were thoroughly characterized by microscopic and optical spectroscopy techniques. We also verified that a protective layer was formed between the worn surfaces, due to the presence of reduced graphene oxide. Carbon accumulation and various additive elements such as Ca, Zn, S and P were detected on the rubbing surfaces of both the ball and the block through energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Finally, it was shown that the wear scar diameter on the surface of the steel ball was lower by 3%, upon testing the engine oil sample containing reduced graphene oxide at concentration 0.02 wt %, compared to the control sample.
Polydopamine-Coated Laponite Nanoplatforms for Photoacoustic Imaging-Guided Chemo-Phototherapy of Breast Cancer
Authors: Liu Renna , Xu Fanli , Wang Lu , Liu Mengxue , Cao Xueyan , Shi Xiangyang , Guo Rui
Published: February 2021

Theranostic nanoplatforms combining photosensitizers and anticancer drugs have aroused wide interest due to the real-time photoacoustic (PA) imaging capability and improved therapeutic efficacy by the synergistic effect of chemotherapy and phototherapy. In this study, polydopamine (PDA) coated laponite (LAP) nanoplatforms were synthesized to efficiently load indocyanine green (ICG) and doxorubicin (DOX), and modified with polyethylene glycol-arginine-glycine-aspartic acid (PEG-RGD) for PA imaging-guided chemo-phototherapy of cancer cells overexpressing αvβ3 integrin. The formed ICG/LAP-PDA-PEG-RGD/DOX nanoplatforms showed significantly higher photothermal conversion efficiency than ICG solution and excellent PA imaging capability, and could release DOX in a pH-sensitive and NIR laser-triggered way, which is highly desirable feature in precision chemotherapy. In addition, the ICG/LAP-PDA-PEG-RGD/DOX nanoplatforms could be uptake by cancer cells overexpressing αvβ3 integrin with high specificity, and thus serve as a targeted contrast agent for in vivo PA imaging of cancer. In vivo experiments with 4T1 tumor-bearing mouse model demonstrated that ICG/LAP-PDA-PEG-RGD/DOX nanoplatforms exhibited much stronger therapeutic effect and higher survival rate than monotherapy due to the synergetic chemo-phototherapy under NIR laser irradiation. Therefore, the reported ICG/LAP-PDA-PEG-RGD/DOX represents a promising theranostic nanoplatform for high effectiveness PA imaging-guided chemo-phototherapy of cancer cells overexpressing αvβ3 integrin.
Cellulose Nanofiber Composite with Bimetallic Zeolite Imidazole Framework for Electrochemical Supercapacitors
Authors: Yadav Hemraj M. , Park Jong Deok , Kang Hyeong Cheol , Kim Jeonghun , Lee Jae-Joon
Published: February 2021

Cellulose nanofiber (CNF) and hybrid zeolite imidazole framework (HZ) are an emerging biomaterial and a porous carbonous material, respectively. The composite of these two materials could have versatile physiochemical characteristics. A cellulose nanofiber and cobalt-containing zeolite framework-based composite was prepared using an in-situ and eco-friendly chemical method followed by pyrolysis. The composite was comprised of cobalt nanoparticles decorated on highly graphitized N-doped nanoporous carbons (NPC) wrapped with carbon nanotubes (CNTs) produced from the direct carbonization of HZ. By varying the ratio of CNF in the composite, we determined the optimal concentration and characterized the derived samples using sophisticated techniques. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) confirmed the functionalization of CNF in the metallic cobalt-covered N-doped NPC wrapped with CNTs. The CNF–HZNPC composite electrodes show superior electrochemical performance, which is suitable for supercapacitor applications; its specific capacitance is 146 F/g at 1 A/g. Furthermore, the composite electrodes retain a cycling stability of about 90% over 2000 charge–discharge cycles at 10 A/g. The superior electrochemical properties of the cellulose make it a promising candidate for developing electrodes for energy storage applications.