bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Secondary Degeneration of Oligodendrocyte Precursor Cells Occurs as Early as 24 h after Optic Nerve Injury in Rats
Authors: Toomey Lillian M. , Papini Melissa G. , Clarke Thomas O. , Wright Alexander J. , Denham Eleanor , Warnock Andrew , McGonigle Terry , Bartlett Carole A. , Fitzgerald Melinda , Anyaegbu Chidozie C.
Published: February 2023

Optic nerve injury causes secondary degeneration, a sequela that spreads damage from the primary injury to adjacent tissue, through mechanisms such as oxidative stress, apoptosis, and blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction. Oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs), a key component of the BBB and oligodendrogenesis, are vulnerable to oxidative deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage by 3 days post-injury. However, it is unclear whether oxidative damage in OPCs occurs earlier at 1 day post-injury, or whether a critical ‘window-of-opportunity’ exists for therapeutic intervention. Here, a partial optic nerve transection rat model of secondary degeneration was used with immunohistochemistry to assess BBB dysfunction, oxidative stress, and proliferation in OPCs vulnerable to secondary degeneration. At 1 day post-injury, BBB breach and oxidative DNA damage were observed, alongside increased density of DNA-damaged proliferating cells. DNA-damaged cells underwent apoptosis (cleaved caspase3+), and apoptosis was associated with BBB breach. OPCs experienced DNA damage and apoptosis and were the major proliferating cell type with DNA damage. However, the majority of caspase3+ cells were not OPCs. These results provide novel insights into acute secondary degeneration mechanisms in the optic nerve, highlighting the need to consider early oxidative damage to OPCs in therapeutic efforts to limit degeneration following optic nerve injury.
Blood Inflammatory-like and Lung Resident-like Eosinophils Affect Migration of Airway Smooth Muscle Cells and Their ECM-Related Proliferation in Asthma
Authors: Rimkunas Airidas , Januskevicius Andrius , Vasyle Egle , Palacionyte Jolita , Janulaityte Ieva , Miliauskas Skaidrius , Malakauskas Kestutis
Published: February 2023

Airway remodeling is a hallmark feature of asthma, and one of its key structural changes is increased airway smooth muscle (ASM) mass and disturbed extracellular matrix (ECM) homeostasis. Eosinophil functions in asthma are broadly defined; however, we lack knowledge about eosinophil subtypes’ interaction with lung structural cells and their effect on the airway’s local microenvironment. Therefore, we investigated the effect of blood inflammatory-like eosinophils (iEOS-like) and lung resident-like eosinophils (rEOS-like) on ASM cells via impact on their migration and ECM-related proliferation in asthma. A total of 17 non-severe steroid-free allergic asthma (AA), 15 severe eosinophilic asthma (SEA) patients, and 12 healthy control subjects (HS) were involved in this study. Peripheral blood eosinophils were enriched using Ficoll gradient centrifugation and magnetic separation, subtyped by using magnetic separation against CD62L. ASM cell proliferation was assessed by AlamarBlue assay, migration by wound healing assay, and gene expression by qRT-PCR analysis. We found that blood iEOS-like and rEOS-like cells from AA and SEA patients’ upregulated genes expression of contractile apparatus proteins, COL1A1, FN, TGF-β1 in ASM cells (p < 0.05), and SEA eosinophil subtypes demonstrated the highest effect on sm-MHC, SM22, and COL1A1 gene expression. Moreover, AA and SEA patients’ blood eosinophil subtypes promoted migration of ASM cells and their ECM-related proliferation, compared with HS (p < 0.05) with the higher effect of rEOS-like cells. In conclusion, blood eosinophil subtypes may contribute to airway remodeling by upregulating contractile apparatus and ECM component production in ASM cells, further promoting their migration and ECM-related proliferation, with a stronger effect of rEOS-like cells and in SEA.
A Taxonomic Revision of the Assassin Bug Genus, Tympanistocoris (Hemiptera: Reduviidae: Reduviinae)
Authors: Fan Mingyuan , Liu Yingqi , Cai Wanzhi
Published: February 2023

The small reduviine genus, Tympanistocoris Miller, is revised. The type species of the genus, T. humilis Miller, is redescribed, and a new species, Tympanistocoris usingeri sp. nov., from Papua New Guinea is described. The illustrations of the antennae, head and pronotum, legs, hemelytra, abdomen, and male genitalia, as well as the habitus of the type specimens are also provided. The new species can be separated from the type species of the genus, T. humilis Miller, in the lateral sides of the pronotum with a distinct carina and the posterior margin of the seventh abdominal segment emarginated. The type specimen of the new species is kept in The Natural History Museum, London. The anastomosing veins of the hemelytra and the systematic position of the genus are briefly discussed.
Growth Regulation in the Larvae of the Lepidopteran Pieris brassicae: A Field Study
Authors: Baraldi Sebastian , Rigato Emanuele , Fusco Giuseppe
Published: February 2023

Size and shape are important determinants of fitness in most living beings. Accordingly, the capacity of the organism to regulate size and shape during growth, containing the effects of developmental disturbances of different origin, is considered a key feature of the developmental system. In a recent study, through a geometric morphometric analysis on a laboratory-reared sample of the lepidopteran Pieris brassicae, we found evidence of regulatory mechanisms able to restrain size and shape variation, including bilateral fluctuating asymmetry, during larval development. However, the efficacy of the regulatory mechanism under greater environmental variation remains to be explored. Here, based on a field-reared sample of the same species, by adopting identical measurements of size and shape variation, we found that the regulatory mechanisms for containing the effects of developmental disturbances during larval growth in P. brassicae are also effective under more natural environmental conditions. This study may contribute to better characterization of the mechanisms of developmental stability and canalization and their combined effects in the developmental interactions between the organism and its environment.
Urinary Continence Recovery after Robotic Radical Prostatectomy without Anterior or Posterior Reconstruction: Experience from a Tertiary Referral Center
Authors: Sessa Francesco , Nicoletti Rossella , Pecoraro Alessio , Polverino Paolo , Rivetti Anna , Conte Francesco Lupo , Lo Re Mattia , Belmonte Mario , Alberti Andrea , Dibilio Edoardo , Gallo Maria Lucia , Manera Alekseja , Gacci Mauro , Sebastianelli Arcangelo , Vignolini Graziano , Serni Sergio , Campi Riccardo , Li Marzi Vincenzo
Published: February 2023

Background: The aim of our study is to evaluate the prevalence and predictive factors of short- (30 d) and mid-term continence in a contemporary cohort of patients treated with robotic-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP) without any posterior or anterior reconstruction at our referral academic center. Methods: Data from patients undergoing RALP between January 2017 and March 2021 were prospectively collected. RALP was performed by three highly experienced surgeons following the principles of the Montsouris technique, with a bladder-neck-sparing intent and maximal preservation of the membranous urethra (if oncologically safe) without any anterior/posterior reconstruction. (Self-assessed urinary incontinence (UI) was defined as the need of one or more pads per die (excluding the need for a safety pad/die. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to assess the independent predictors of early incontinence among routinely collected patient- and tumor-related variables). Results: A total of 925 patients were included; of these, 353 underwent RALP (38.2%) without nerve-sparing intent. The median patient age and BMI were 68 years (IQR 63–72) and 26 (IQR 24.0–28.0), respectively. Overall, 159 patients (17.2%) reported early (30 d) incontinence. In multivariable analysis adjusting for patient- and tumor-related features, a non-nerve-sparing procedure (OR: 1.57 [95% CI: 1.03–2.59], p = 0.035) was independently associated with the risk of urinary incontinence in the short-term period, while the absence of cardiovascular diseases before surgery (OR: 0.46 [95% CI: 0.320.67], p ≤ 0.01) was a protective factor for this outcome. At a median follow-up of 17 months (IQR 10–24), 94.5% of patients reported to be continent. Conclusions: In experienced hands, most patients fully recover urinary continence after RALP at mid-term follow-up. On the contrary, the proportion of patients who reported early incontinence in our series was modest but not negligible. The implementation of surgical techniques advocating anterior and/or posterior fascial reconstruction might improve the early continence rate in candidates for RALP.
Is There a High Risk for GI Bleeding Complications in Patients Undergoing Abdominal Surgery?
Authors: Wichmann Dörte , Orlova Olena , Königsrainer Alfred , Quante Markus
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) can cause life-threatening situations. Here, endoscopy is the first-line diagnostic and therapeutic mode in patients with GIB among further therapeutic approaches such as embolization or medical treatment. Although GIB is considered the most common indication for emergency endoscopy in clinical practice, data on GIB in abdominal surgical patients are still scarce. Patients and methods: For the present study, all emergency endoscopies performed on hospitalized abdominal surgical patients over a 2-year period (1 July 2017–30 June2019) were retrospectively analyzed. Primary endpoint was 30-day mortality. Secondary endpoints were length of hospital stay, cause of bleeding, and therapeutic success of endoscopic intervention. Results: During the study period, bleeding events with an indication for emergency endoscopy occurred in 2.0% (129/6455) of all surgical inhouse patients, of whom 83.7% (n = 108) underwent a surgical procedure. In relation to the total number of respective surgical procedures during the study period, the bleeding incidence was 8.9% after hepatobiliary surgery, 7.7% after resections in the upper gastrointestinal tract, and 1.1% after colonic resections. Signs of active or past bleeding in the anastomosis area were detected in ten patients (6.9%). The overall 30-day mortality was 7.75%. Conclusions: The incidence of relevant gastrointestinal bleeding events in visceral surgical inpatients was overall rare. However, our data call for critical peri-operative vigilance for bleeding events and underscore the importance of interdisciplinary emergency algorithms.
Understanding Breast Cancer Aggressiveness and Its Implications in Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Afifi Nader , Barrero Carlos A.
Published: February 2023

Breast cancer (BC) is the most common form of cancer in women worldwide [...]
Expanding the Toolbox for Functional Genomics in Fonsecaea pedrosoi: The Use of Split-Marker and Biolistic Transformation for Inactivation of Tryptophan Synthase (trpB) Gene
Authors: Favilla Luísa Dan , Herman Tatiana Sobianski , Goersch Camila da Silva , de Andrade Rosangela Vieira , Felipe Maria Sueli Soares , Bocca Anamélia Lorenzetti , Fernandes Larissa
Published: February 2023

Chromoblastomycosis (CBM) is a disease caused by several dematiaceous fungi from different genera, and Fonsecaea is the most common which has been clinically isolated. Genetic transformation methods have recently been described; however, molecular tools for the functional study of genes have been scarcely reported for those fungi. In this work, we demonstrated that gene deletion and generation of the null mutant by homologous recombination are achievable for Fonsecaea pedrosoi by the use of two approaches: use of double-joint PCR for cassette construction, followed by delivery of the split-marker by biolistic transformation. Through in silico analyses, we identified that F. pedrosoi presents the complete enzymatic apparatus required for tryptophan (trp) biosynthesis. The gene encoding a tryptophan synthase trpB —which converts chorismate to trp—was disrupted. The ΔtrpB auxotrophic mutant can grow with external trp supply, but germination, viability of conidia, and radial growth are defective compared to the wild-type and reconstituted strains. The use of 5-FAA for selection of trp- phenotypes and for counter-selection of strains carrying the trp gene was also demonstrated. The molecular tools for the functional study of genes, allied to the genetic information from genomic databases, significantly boost our understanding of the biology and pathogenicity of CBM causative agents.
How Did Swiss Small and Medium Enterprises Weather the COVID-19 Pandemic? Evidence from Survey Data
Authors: Nicolas Christina , Brender Nathalie , Maradan David
Published: February 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic had unprecedented consequences on businesses and, in particular, small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The aim of this paper is to empirically study the impact of the COVID-19 sanitary crisis on Swiss SMEs two years after the onset of the pandemic. Using a sample of 149 SMEs operating in the French-speaking region of Switzerland, we find that revenue loss across the full sample averaged 14% in 2020 compared to 2019. Our findings show that firm characteristics are not significant in explaining turnover loss while business management strategies such as business restructuring, remote working, and prioritizing employee protection were significantly associated with revenue. Our results suggest that remote work should be gradually introduced in sectors of activity whenever possible to reduce the financial burden of any future pandemic on SMEs. Additionally, we quantify the impact of closure on SMEs and find that firms having reported to have closed partially or completely due to sanitary restrictions were impacted seven times more in terms of revenue loss compared to SMEs that did not cease their activity during the COVID-19 crisis. This paper contributes to our understanding of the magnitude of the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on SMEs and highlights the importance of SMEs adopting efficient business management strategies, and implementing measures to support smaller firms by public authorities in times of crisis.
Assessment of Soil Potentially Toxic Metal Pollution in Kolchugino Town, Russia: Characteristics and Pollution
Authors: Kamanina Inna Z. , Badawy Wael M. , Kaplina Svetlana P. , Makarov Oleg A. , Mamikhin Sergey V.
Published: February 2023

The present study was carried out to describe the characteristic features of potentially toxic metals (PTMs) in the soil of industrial city, Kolchugino–Vladimir Region–Russia. The mass fractions in mg/kg of Cu, Pb, Zn, and Cd were measured by atomic absorption spectrometer (AAS). Multivariate statistical analysis and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA), were performed. The obtained results of the potentially toxic elements were mapped using ArcGIS. A total of four pollution indices were calculated to identify the areas with significant pollution associations. The data analysis showed that locations 14 (urban area) and 16 (non-ferrous metallurgy plant) contribute significantly to pollution. Maximum likelihood method was used to classify the land-use and land-cover (LULC). The analysis shows that locations 14 and 16 are belonging to the industrial area on LULC. Great attention should be paid to the control and regulation of waste disposal into the environment, which in turn, has an adversely impact on human health. By using the data, it could help to identify areas where waste control measures need to be implemented, such as increasing recycling or introducing more waste control legislation. It could also help to identify areas where waste control efforts have been successful. Data can be used by government, policymakers, and stakeholders for future planning and R&D activities.
Integrated Computational Approaches for Inhibiting Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin in Male Infertility by Screening Potent Phytochemicals
Authors: Biswas Suvro , Mita Mohasana Akter , Afrose Shamima , Hasan Md. Robiul , Islam Md. Tarikul , Rahman Md. Ashiqur , Ara Mst. Jasmin , Chowdhury Md. Bakhtiar Abid , Meem Habibatun Naher , Mamunuzzaman Md. , Ahammad Tanvir , Ashik Istiaq Uddin , Ibrahim Munjed M. , Imam Mohammad Tarique , Hossain Mohammad Akbar , Saleh Md. Abu
Published: February 2023

Male infertility is significantly influenced by the plasma-protein sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG). Male infertility, erectile dysfunction, prostate cancer, and several other male reproductive system diseases are all caused by reduced testosterone bioavailability due to its binding to SHBG. In this study, we have identified 345 phytochemicals from 200 literature reviews that potentially inhibit severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. Only a few studies have been done using the SARS-CoV-2 inhibitors to identify the SHBG inhibitor, which is thought to be the main protein responsible for male infertility. In virtual-screening and molecular-docking experiments, cryptomisrine, dorsilurin E, and isoiguesterin were identified as potential SHBG inhibitors with binding affinities of −9.2, −9.0, and −8.8 kcal/mol, respectively. They were also found to have higher binding affinities than the control drug anastrozole (−7.0 kcal/mol). In addition to favorable pharmacological properties, these top three phytochemicals showed no adverse effects in pharmacokinetic evaluations. Several molecular dynamics simulation profiles’ root-mean-square deviation, radius of gyration, root-mean-square fluctuation, hydrogen bonds, and solvent-accessible surface area supported the top three protein–ligand complexes’ better firmness and stability than the control drug throughout the 100 ns simulation period. These combinatorial drug-design approaches indicate that these three phytochemicals could be developed as potential drugs to treat male infertility.
Investigation of Electrochemical Assisted Deposition of Sol-Gel Silica Films for Long-Lasting Superhydrophobicity
Authors: Zhou Baoming , Wu Yongling , Zheng Hongyu
Published: February 2023

Current methods for the protection of metal surfaces utilize harsh chemical processes, such as organic paint or electro-plating, which are not environment-friendly and require extensive waste treatments. In this study, a two-step approach consisting of electrochemical assisted deposition (EAD) of an aqueous silane solution and a dip coating of a low surface energy silane for obtaining a superhydrophobic self-cleaning surface for the enhanced protection of copper substrate is presented. A porous and hierarchical micro-nanostructured silica basecoat (sol-gel) was first formed by EAD of a methyltriethoxysilane (MTES) precursor solution on a copper substrate. Then, a superhydrophobic top-coat (E-MTES/PFOTS) was prepared with 1H,1H,2H,2H-Perfluorooctyltriethoxysilane (PFOTS) for low surface energy. The superhydrophobic coating exhibited anti-stain properties against milk, cola, and oil, with contact angles of 151°, 151.5°, and 129°, respectively. The EAD deposition potential and duration were effective in controlling the microscopic morphology, surface roughness, and coating thickness. The E-MTES/PFOTS coatings exhibited chemical stability against acids, bases, and abrasion resistance by sandpaper. The proposed 2-layer coating system exhibited strong chemical bonding at the two interfaces and provided a brush-like surface morphology with long-lasting superhydrophobicity. The developed method would provide an environment-friendly and expedient process for uniform protective coatings on complex surfaces.
A Novel Sugar-Assisted Solvothermal Method for FeF2 Nanomaterial and Its Application in LIBs
Authors: Zhang Yanli , Zhang Qiang , He Xiangming , Wang Li , Wang Jingxin , Dong Liangliang , Xie Yingpeng , Hao Yongsheng
Published: February 2023

Due to its quite high theoretical specific-energy density, FeF2 nanomaterial is a good candidate for the cathode material of high-energy lithium-ion batteries. The preparation of FeF2 nanomaterial is very important for its application. At present, the preparation process mostly involves high temperature and an inert atmosphere, which need special or expensive devices. It is very important to seek a low-temperature and mild method, without the need for high temperature and inert atmosphere, for the preparation and following application of FeF2 nanomaterial. This article reports a novel sugar-assisted solvothermal method in which the FeF3∙3H2O precursor is reduced into FeF2 nanomaterial by carbon derived from the dehydration and condensation of sugar. The obtained FeF2 nanomaterials are irregular granules of about 30 nm, with inner pores inside each granule. Electrochemical tests show the FeF2 nanomaterial’s potential as a lithium-ion battery cathode material.
A DOPO-Based Compound Containing Aminophenyl Silicone Oil for Reducing Fire Hazards of Polycarbonate
Authors: Song Xiaoqing , Xu Wendi , Cai Boyu , Wang Luze , Luo Zhonglin , Wang Biaobing
Published: February 2023

A novel P/N/Si-containing flame retardant (marked as DASO) was synthesized through an Atherton–Todd reaction between 9,10-dihydro-9-oxa-10-phospha-phenanthrene-10-oxide and aminophenyl silicone oil, and further used for reducing fire hazards of polycarbonate (PC). The chemical structure of DASO was verified via FTIR, 1H, and 31P NMR. Upon the incorporation of 2 wt% DASO, the FRPC composite achieved a high limiting oxygen index (LOI) of 32.2% and a desired UL-94 V-0 rating. In this case, the peak heat release rate (PHRR) and total smoke production (TSP) were reduced by 26% and 44% as compared with the pure PC, respectively. The improved fire safety contributed to the flame retardant roles of DASO in both the condensed phase and gas phase. The presence of DASO promoted the formation of dense and highly graphited char layer in the condensed phase, and released non-combustible gases and phosphorus-containing radicals in the gas phase. Furthermore, the FRPC composites displayed comparable elongation at break but a slightly reduced tensile and impact strength.
Experimental Determination and Calculation of the Wire Drawing Force in Monolithic Dies on Straight-Line Drawing Machines
Authors: Radionova Liudmila V. , Gromov Dmitry V. , Lisovskiy Roman A. , Erdakov Ivan N.
Published: February 2023

In this article, a mathematical model has been developed for calculating the energy-power parameters of the drawing process in monolithic dies on straight-line drawing machines, and its adequacy has been validated in experimental wire drawing on a laboratory automated drawing machine. The program allows us to calculate drawing stress, drawing force, tensile strength and yield strength of the alloy after wire drawing, safety factor, and drawing power. The developed mathematical model differs in that it allows us to evaluate the uniformity of deformation over the wire section, depending on the technological parameters of the deformation zone, namely, the semi-angular die, the coefficient of friction and the degree of deformation. To select the technological parameters of the deformation zone, which ensure uniform deformation over the wire cross-section, a nomogram was compiled. The equations of hardening during nickel NP2 wire drawing are obtained. The calculation of energy-power parameters of drawing nickel NP2 (Ni 99.6) wire ∅1.8 mm from ∅4.94 mm wire rod is given. Experimental studies have been carried out to determine the energy-power parameters of nickel wire drawing on a laboratory drawing machine with an installed ring strain gauge to determine the drawing force. A change in the friction coefficient by 0.02 when drawing nickel wire leads to an increase in stress and drawing force by 20%. To improve the accuracy of the developed mathematical model, it is shown that in the future, it would be necessary to conduct experimental studies on a laboratory drawing machine to determine the effect on the energy-power parameters of the drawing process of the values of technological parameters entered into the program as constant real values, such as the friction coefficient, die half-angle, drawing speed, and back tension.
PR-Alignment: Multidimensional Adaptive Registration Algorithm Based on Practical Application Scenarios
Authors: Wang Wenxin , Zhao Changming , Zhang Haiyang
Published: February 2023

In the present day, 3D point clouds are considered to be an important form of representing the 3D world. In computer vision, mobile robotics, and computer graphics, point cloud registration is a basic task, and it is widely used in 3D reconstruction, reverse engineering, among other applications. However, the mainstream method of point cloud registration is subject to the problems of a long registration time as well as a poor modeling effect, and these two factors cannot be balanced. To address this issue, we propose an adaptive registration mechanism based on a multi-dimensional analysis of practical application scenarios. Through the use of laser point clouds and RGB images, we are able to obtain geometric and photometric information, thus improving the data dimension. By adding target scene classification information to the RANSAC algorithm, combined with geometric matching and photometric matching, we are able to complete the adaptive estimation of the transformation matrix. We demonstrate via extensive experiments that our method achieves a state-of-the-art performance in terms of point cloud registration accuracy and time compared with other mainstream algorithms, striking a balance between expected performance and time cost.
Development of Shoulder Muscle-Assistive Wearable Device for Work in Unstructured Postures
Authors: Jeon Kwang-Woo , Chung Hyun-Joon , Jung Eui-Jung , Kang Jeon-Seong , Son So-Eun , Yi Hak
Published: February 2023

The present study describes the development of a wearable device designed to assist those who work in an unstructured posture. In the manufacturing sector, industrial accidents have been steadily on the rise due to poor work environments and excessive workloads imposed on workers. Against this backdrop, the present study aimed to analyze various types of work, especially those performed in unstructured postures by heavy industry workers, who are frequently exposed to high workloads and poor work environments. Based on the analysis results, an attempt was made to develop a shoulder muscle-assistive wearable device capable of assisting a wearer who is working using their shoulder muscles. Various types of unstructured posture work are performed in heavy industries, including activities such as the welding and grinding of ship components and plant structures. They are typically conducted in narrow spaces with limited postures, causing many workers to suffer muscle fatigue. In the present study, as the first step of developing a shoulder muscle-assistive wearable device, different working scenarios were simulated, and the corresponding motion data and required torque values were estimated using motion capture devices. The obtained motion data and required torque values were reflected in the design of the wearable device. The main structural body of the shoulder muscle-assistive wearable device was made of a carbon fiber-reinforced composite to be lightweight. This shoulder muscle-assistive wearable device was designed to fully cover the range of motion for workers working in unstructured postures while generating the torque required for a given job, thereby enhancing the muscular endurance of the workers. The gravity compensation module of the designed shoulder muscle-assistive wearable device generates a support force of 4.47 Nm per shoulder. The shoulder muscle assistive wearable device was developed to provide support for approximately 30% of the shoulder joint’s maximum torque generated in overhead tasks. This shoulder muscle-assistive wearable device is expected to contribute to improving the productivity of field workers, while reducing the occurrence of musculoskeletal injuries arising from the aging of the working-age population.
Applications of Neutrosophic q-Poisson distribution Series for Subclass of Analytic Functions and Bi-Univalent Functions
Authors: Alsoboh Abdullah , Amourah Ala , Darus Maslina , Sharefeen Rami Issa Al
Published: February 2023

By using the generalization of the neutrosophic q-Poisson distribution series, we introduce a new subclass of analytic and bi-univalent functions defined in the open unit disk. We then apply the q-Gegenbauer polynomials to investigate the estimates for the Taylor coefficients and Fekete–Szegö type inequalities of the functions belonging to this new subclass. In addition, we consider several corollaries and the consequences of the results presented in this paper. The neutrosophic q-Poisson distribution is expected to be significant in a number of areas of mathematics, science, and technology.
Mixed-Delay-Dependent Augmented Functional for Synchronization of Uncertain Neutral-Type Neural Networks with Sampled-Data Control
Authors: Wang Shuoting , Shi Kaibo
Published: February 2023

In this paper, the synchronization problem of uncertain neutral-type neural networks (NTNNs) with sampled-data control is investigated. First, a mixed-delay-dependent augmented Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional (LKF) is proposed, which not only considers the interaction between transmission delay and communication delay, but also takes the interconnected relationship between neutral delay and transmission delay into consideration. Then, a two-sided looped functional is also involved in the LKF, which effectively utilizes the information on the intervals [tk,t], [tk−τ,t−τ],[t,tk+1),[t−τ,tk+1−τ). Furthermore, based on the suitable LKF and a free-matrix-based integral inequality, two synchronization criteria via a sampled-data controller considering communication delay are derived in forms of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). Finally, three numerical examples are carried out to confirm the validity of the proposed criteria.
Moving Singular Points and the Van der Pol Equation, as Well as the Uniqueness of Its Solution
Authors: Orlov Victor
Published: February 2023

The article considers the Van der Pol equation nonlinearity aspect related to a moving singular point. The fact of the existence of moving singular points and the uniqueness of their solution for complex domains have been proved. An answer to the question about the existence of moving singular points in the real domain was obtained. The proof of existence and uniqueness is based on an author’s modification of the technology of the classical Cauchy theorem. A priori estimates of the analytical approximate solution in the vicinity of a moving singular point are obtained. Calculations of a numerical experiment are presented.
Laboratory Findings in Children with Excess Body Weight in Romania
Authors: Pascu Bogdan Mihai , Miron Victor Daniel , Matei Emanuela Rachel , Craiu Mihai
Published: February 2023

Background and Objectives: Childhood obesity has been increasing at a worrisome pace and emerging as a non-infectious pandemic in the pediatric population in recent years. Raising awareness on this problem is of utmost importance, in order to take action to control body weight from an early age. Materials and Methods: We performed a retrospective study among overweight or obese children evaluated on an outpatient basis in the Department of Pediatric Endocrinology of a tertiary care hospital in Bucharest Romania in 2021 in order to identify laboratory changes occurring according to age and sex. Results: A total of 268 children were included in the analysis, with a median age of 10.9 years (IQR: 8.3, 13.3 years); 61.8% were obese and 38.2% overweight. We identified a subclinical pro-inflammatory status characterized by increased neutrophil count (12.7%) and increased C-reactive protein (16.4%). Biochemically, we identified the highest increases for uric acid (35.4%). More than half of the children included in the study had dyslipidemia-specific changes: high low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) (50.0%), low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) (58.9%) and increased triglyceride levels (12.7%), especially children with a body mass-index (BMI) percentile above 95%. Increased thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) was identified in 20.3% and low thyroxine (T4) level in 13.4%, especially in females. Conclusions: Early measures to control excess body weight are needed since preventing obesity is easier than treating it. However, this is often difficult to do in our country because parents frequently do not recognize the problem until it is advanced. Furthermore, doctors are not always adequately prepared and sometimes they do not have the support of the health systems to provide children in need with the adequate care. Educational strategies and awareness of issue should be revisited in current post-pandemic context that facilitates increase of obesity prevalence in children. Increase of efficient communication could be achieved by pointing to these objective findings.
Failed Attempt to Recommend Noise Cancelling Headphones for Knee Arthroplasty Surgeons—Results of a Pilot Study
Authors: Stadler Christian , Luger Matthias , Schauer Bernhard , Stevoska Stella , Gotterbarm Tobias , Klasan Antonio
Published: February 2023

Background and Objectives: Noise exposure during total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has been demonstrated to exceed thresholds that are deemed as over-exposure by industry noise level standards. With orthopedic surgeons being at risk of suffering from Noise Induced Hearing Loss, the purpose of this pilot study was to evaluate the viability of the use of industry grade active noise cancelling headphones (ANCH) during TKA. Material and Methods: In this prospective pilot study, 10 TKA were performed. In five of these cases, surgeon, assistant, scrub nurse and anesthetist wore ANCH with automatic noise level dependent noise attenuation above 82 dB. A validated 14-item questionnaire was used after each case to evaluate the quality of communication, performance, teamwork and mental load. In seven cases a calibrated sound level meter was used to measure the operating theatre noise. Peak sound level (LApeak), A-weighted continuous sound level (LAeq) and A-weighted noise exposure averaged for an 8-h time-period (LEPd) were calculated. Results: There was no perceived benefit of ANCH for the surgeons (p = 0.648), assistants (p = 0.908) and scrub nurses (p = 0.251). There was an overall improvement observed by anesthetists (p = 0.001). A worse communication while wearing ANCH was reported by surgeons but not by the rest of the team. Average LApeak was 90.6 ± 3.2 dB(C), LAeq was 61.9 ± 1.0 dB(A) and LEPd was 53.2 ± 1.2 dB(A). Conclusions: Industry grade ANCH seem to provide no benefit for surgeons, assistants and scrub nurses during TKA, while anesthesiologists seem to benefit from the use of ANCH during TKA. Due to the limitations of this pilot study, further studies with larger study populations are necessary to adequately investigate the use of ANCH during TKA.
Water-Resistant Photo-Crosslinked PEO/PEGDA Electrospun Nanofibers for Application in Catalysis
Authors: Maccaferri Emanuele , Canciani Andrea , Mazzocchetti Laura , Benelli Tiziana , Giorgini Loris , Albonetti Stefania
Published: February 2023

Catalysts are used for producing the vast majority of chemical products. Usually, catalytic membranes are inorganic. However, when dealing with reactions conducted at low temperatures, such as in the production of fine chemicals, polymeric catalytic membranes are preferred due to a more competitive cost and easier tunability compared to inorganic ones. In the present work, nanofibrous mats made of poly(ethylene oxide), PEO, and poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate, PEGDA, blends with the Au/Pd catalyst are proposed as catalytic membranes for water phase and low-temperature reactions. While PEO is a water-soluble polymer, its blending with PEGDA can be exploited to make the overall PEO/PEGDA blend nanofibers water-resistant upon photo-crosslinking. Thus, after the optimization of the blend solution (PEO molecular weight, PEO/PEGDA ratio, photoinitiator amount), electrospinning process, and UV irradiation time, the resulting nanofibrous mat is able to maintain the nanostructure in water. The addition of the Au6/Pd1 catalyst (supported on TiO2) in the PEO/PEGDA blend allows the production of a catalytic nanofibrous membrane. The reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) to 4-aminophenol (4-AP), taken as a water phase model reaction, demonstrates the potential usage of PEO-based membranes in catalysis.
The Role of Plant Growth-Promoting Microorganisms (PGPMs) and Their Feasibility in Hydroponics and Vertical Farming
Authors: Dhawi Faten
Published: February 2023

There are many reasons for the increase in hydroponics/soil-free systems in agriculture, and these systems have now advanced to the form of vertical farming. The sustainable use of space, the reduction in water use compared to soil-based agriculture, the lack of pesticides, the ability to control nutrient inputs, and the implementation of user-friendly technology for environmental control and harvesting are all factors that have made the global market for vertical farming predicted to reach more than USD 10.02 billion by 2027. By comparison, soil-based agriculture consumes 20 times more water, and some agricultural practices promote soil deterioration and cause environmental pollution. Plant growth-promoting microorganisms (PGPMs) have been used extensively in traditional agriculture to enhance plant growth, environmental stress tolerance, and the efficacy of phytoremediation in soil-based farming. Due to the controlled atmosphere in hydroponics and vertical farms, there is strong potential to maximize the use of PGPMs. Here, we review the leveraging of plant growth-promoting microorganism mechanisms in hydroponics and vertical farming. We recommend a synchronized PGPM treatment using a biostimulant extract added to the hydroponic medium while also pre-treating seeds or seedlings with a microbial suspension for aquaponic and aeroponic systems.
Characterization of a Vesicular Stomatitis Virus-Vectored Recombinant Virus Bearing Spike Protein of SARS-CoV-2 Delta Variant
Authors: He Wenwen , Cui Huan , Wang Shen , Liang Bo , Zhang Cheng , Wang Weiqi , Wang Qi , Li Wujian , Zhao Yongkun , Wang Tiecheng , Liu Zhuoran , Liu Bin , Yan Feihu , Yang Songtao , Xia Xianzhu
Published: February 2023

The frequent emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants thwarts the prophylactic and therapeutic countermeasures confronting COVID-19. Among them, the Delta variant attracts widespread attention due to its high pathogenicity and fatality rate compared with other variants. However, with the emergence of new variants, studies on Delta variants have been gradually weakened and ignored. In this study, a replication-competent recombinant virus carrying the S protein of the SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant was established based on the vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV), which presented a safe alternative model for studying the Delta variant. The recombinant virus showed a replication advantage in Vero E6 cells, and the viral titers reach 107.3 TCID50/mL at 36 h post-inoculation. In the VSV-vectored recombinant platform, the spike proteins of the Delta variant mediated higher fusion activity and syncytium formation than the wild-type strain. Notably, the recombinant virus was avirulent in BALB/c mice, Syrian hamsters, 3-day ICR suckling mice, and IFNAR/GR−/− mice. It induced protective neutralizing antibodies in rodents, and protected the Syrian hamsters against the SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant infection. Meanwhile, the eGFP reporter of recombinant virus enabled the visual assay of neutralizing antibodies. Therefore, the recombinant virus could be a safe and convenient surrogate tool for authentic SARS-CoV-2. This efficient and reliable model has significant potential for research on viral-host interactions, epidemiological investigation of serum-neutralizing antibodies, and vaccine development.
Biosynthetic Gene Clusters from Swine Gut Microbiome
Authors: Wang Leli , Zhang Yiru , Xu Juan , Wang Chuni , Yin Lanmei , Tu Qiang , Yang Huansheng , Yin Jia
Published: February 2023

The abuse of antibiotics has become a serious health challenge in the veterinary field. It creates environmental selection pressure on bacteria and facilitates the rapid spread of antibiotic resistance genes. The speed of discovery and application of cost-effective alternatives to antibiotics is slow in pig production. Natural products from biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) represent promising therapeutic agents for animal and human health and have attracted extraordinary passion from researchers due to their ability to participate in biofilm inhibition, stress resistance, and the killing of competitors. In this study, we detected the presence of diverse secondary metabolite genes in porcine intestines through sequence alignment in the antiSMASH database. After comparing variations in microbial BGCs’ composition between the ileum and the colon, it was found that the abundance of the resorcinol gene cluster was elevated in the ileal microbiome, whereas the gene cluster of arylpolyene was enriched in the colonic microbiome. The investigation of BGCs’ diversity and composition differences between the ileal and colonic microbiomes provided novel insights into further utilizing BGCs in livestock. The importance of BGCs in gut microbiota deserves more attention for promoting healthy swine production.
Pressure Evolution Mechanism of Marine Shale Reservoirs and Shale Gas Accumulation Model: Evidence from Fluid Inclusions in the Wufeng–Longmaxi Formation in the Basin Margin Structural Transition Zone in Northern Guizhou Province, China
Authors: Li Xingyu , Du Wei , Feng Xia , Shi Fulun , Chen Yi , Wang Yisong , Jiang Zhenxue , Luo Qun
Published: February 2023

The Wufeng–Longmaxi Formation in northern Guizhou Province is the dominant shale gas exploration and development strata in China. This study investigates the Shixi and Daozhen synclines, which are located in the basin margin transition zone. This region experienced complex tectonic stages and superimposed transformations, resulting in heterogeneous preservation conditions and shale reservoir pressure evolution in different tectonic units of the Wufeng–Longmaxi Formation. Based on fluid inclusion analysis, the types of fluid inclusion and the fluid filling stages of the Wufeng–Longmaxi shale reservoir were determined by laser Raman analysis and homogenization temperature and salinity tests. It was found that the fluid inclusion density and paleopressure in each filling stage were then restored. The results confirm that: ① Both the Shixi syncline and Daozhen syncline Wufeng–Longmaxi shale reservoirs experienced two fluid filling phases, in the early Yanshanian and late Yanshanian–Himalayan, respectively. In the course of tectonic evolution, the Wufeng–Longmaxi Formation in the Shixi and Daozhen synclines experienced pressure relief to some extent during the two aforementioned key fluid charging periods but remained in overpressurized states overall; ② The Wufeng–Longmaxi Formations of the Shixi and Daozhen synclines are characterized by high-density methane inclusions; ③ Based on the differences in the structural preservation conditions, the pressure evolution mechanisms of the Wufeng–Longmaxi Formation Shales during the important tectonic evolution period in northern Guizhou Province were revealed. Furthermore, differential enrichment and accumulation models of shale gas were established and named “facing thrust structural sealing type (Shixi syncline)” and “reverse fault lateral blocking type (Daozhen syncline)”.
Bioleaching of Sulfide Minerals by Leptospirillum ferriphilum CC from Polymetallic Mine (Armenia)
Authors: Vardanyan Arevik , Khachatryan Anna , Castro Laura , Willscher Sabine , Gaydardzhiev Stoyan , Zhang Ruiyong , Vardanyan Narine
Published: February 2023

A strain of Leptospirillum sp. CC previously isolated from Akhtala polymetallic ore (Armenia) was studied. The main morphological and physiological characteristics of CC were revealed. The optimal growth temperature was 40 °C and optimal pH 1.5. A phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences (GenBank ID OM272948) showed that isolate CC was clustered with L. ferriphilum and possessed 99.8% sequence similarity with the strain L. ferriphilum OL12-2 (KF356024). The molar fraction of DNA (G + C) of the isolate was 58.5%. Bioleaching experiment indicates that L. ferriphilum CC can oxidize Fe(II) efficiently, and after 17 days, 44.1% of copper and 91.4% of iron are extracted from chalcopyrite and pyrite, respectively. The efficiency of L. ferriphilum CC in pyrite oxidation increases 1.7 times when co-cultivated with At. ferrooxidans ZnC. However, the highest activity in pyrite oxidation shows the association of L.ferriphilum CC with heterotrophic Acidocella sp. RBA bacteria. It was shown that bioleaching of copper and iron from chalcopyrite by association of L. ferriphilum CC, At. ferrooxidans ZnC, and At. albertensis SO-2 in comparison with pure culture L. ferriphilum CC for 21 days increased about 1.2 and 1.4–1.6 times, respectively.
One-Step Solvothermal Synthesis by Ethylene Glycol to Produce N-rGO for Supercapacitor Applications
Authors: Rahman Mohammad Obaidur , Nor Nursyarizal Bin Mohd , Sawaran Singh Narinderjit Singh , Sikiru Surajudeen , Dennis John Ojur , Shukur Muhammad Fadhlullah bin Abd. , Junaid Muhammad , Abro Ghulam E. Mustafa , Siddiqui Muhammad Aadil , Al-Amin Md
Published: February 2023

Graphene and its derivatives have emerged as peerless electrode materials for energy storage applications due to their exclusive electroactive properties such as high chemical stability, wettability, high electrical conductivity, and high specific surface area. However, electrodes from graphene-based composites are still facing some substantial challenges to meet current energy demands. Here, we applied one-pot facile solvothermal synthesis to produce nitrogen-doped reduced graphene oxide (N-rGO) nanoparticles using an organic solvent, ethylene glycol (EG), and introduced its application in supercapacitors. Electrochemical analysis was conducted to assess the performance using a multi-channel electrochemical workstation. The N-rGO-based electrode demonstrates the highest specific capacitance of 420 F g−1 at 1 A g−1 current density in 3 M KOH electrolyte with the value of energy (28.60 Whkg−1) and power (460 Wkg−1) densities. Furthermore, a high capacitance retention of 98.5% after 3000 charge/discharge cycles was recorded at 10 A g−1. This one-pot facile solvothermal synthetic process is expected to be an efficient technique to design electrodes rationally for next-generation supercapacitors.
Pd/Pt-Bimetallic-Nanoparticle-Doped In2O3 Hollow Microspheres for Rapid and Sensitive H2S Sensing at Low Temperature
Authors: Jiang Kaisheng , Chen Tingting , Sun Jianhai , Quan Hao , Zhou Tianye
Published: February 2023

H2S is a poisonous gas that is widespread in nature and human activities. Its rapid and sensitive detection is essential to prevent it from damaging health. Herein, we report Pd- and Pt-bimetallic-nanoparticle-doped In2O3 hollow microspheres that are synthesized using solvothermal and in situ reduction methods for H2S detection. The structure of as-synthesized 1 at% Pd/Pt-In2O3 comprises porous hollow microspheres assembled from In2O3 nanosheets with Pd and Pt bimetallic nanoparticles loaded on its surface. The response of 1 at% Pd/Pt-In2O3 to 5 ppm H2S is 140 (70 times that of pure In2O3), and the response time is 3 s at a low temperature of 50 °C. In addition, it can detect trace H2S (as low as 50 ppb) and has superior selectivity and an excellent anti-interference ability. These outstanding gas-sensing performances of 1 at% Pd/Pt-In2O3 are attributed to the chemical sensitization of Pt, the electronic sensitization of Pd, and the synergistic effect between them. This work supplements the research of In2O3-based H2S sensors and proves that Pd- and Pt-bimetallic-doped In2O3 can be applied in the detection of H2S.