bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mathematical Modeling of the Reliability of Polymer Composite Materials
Authors: Isametova Madina E. , Nussipali Rollan , Martyushev Nikita V. , Malozyomov Boris V. , Efremenkov Egor A. , Isametov Aysen
Published: October 2022

An urgent task in creating and using composite materials is the assessment and prediction of their performance properties and reliability. Currently, when studying the reliability of the materials, there is little experimental data, mathematical descriptions, and models for both probabilistic and deterministic methods to assess reliability. Based on the obtained experimental data, this article discusses the development of a methodology for predicting reliability. The article also proposes a statistical model for assessing reliability by the criterion of the structural strength of products made of polymer composite materials. The characteristics of the reliability changes in the materials when in operation are presented. The calculation allowed obtaining graphs showing the dispersion and statistical variability of the characteristics of polypropylene-based polymeric materials at the design, production, and operation stages of the product life cycle. The computational experimental results for determining the influence of the shape of inclusions and mass on the mechanical properties of a polymer composite material aimed at improving the strength characteristics of the products are presented. Based on a computational experiment in the MSC Digimat MF nonlinear solver, equations are provided to demonstrate the regression dependence of the strength of a part made of a polymer composite material on technological factors.
Application of the Conditional Optimization Method for the Synthesis of the Law of Emergency Control of a Synchronous Generator Steam Turbine Operating in a Complex-Closed Configuration Power System
Authors: Senyuk Mihail , Safaraliev Murodbek , Gulakhmadov Aminjon , Ahyoev Javod
Published: October 2022

Stochastic renewable sources of energy have been causing changes in the structure and operation of power systems. High penetration of this type of generation results in decreased inertia of a power system, increased active power fluctuations, and a higher probability of false tripping of emergency control devices. Traditional algorithms of emergency control are not adaptable and flexible enough for systems with high penetration of renewables and flexible alternating current transmission systems. Integration and development of phasor measurement units make it possible to create adaptable emergency control systems, which would require minimal pre-defined data. The purpose of this study is to develop an adaptable algorithm of turbine fast valving control synthesis and transient stability estimation for a generator. The suggested algorithm is based on the equal area criterion in the domain synchronous generator Torque—Load angle. The measurements of the generator operation under consideration are used as the input data for the steam turbine fast valving control synthesis. Thus, the algorithm becomes adaptable because no pre-defined parameters of a power system model are required.
Astaxanthin Exerts Immunomodulatory Effect by Regulating SDH-HIF-1α Axis and Reprogramming Mitochondrial Metabolism in LPS-Stimulated RAW264.7 Cells
Authors: Sun Luchuanyang , Kim Sangeun , Mori Ryoichi , Miyaji Nobuyuki , Nikawa Takeshi , Hirasaka Katsuya
Published: October 2022

Astaxanthin (AX) is a carotenoid that exerts potent antioxidant activity and acts in cell membranes and mitochondria, which consist of the bilayer molecules. Targeting mitochondria to ameliorate inflammatory diseases by regulating mitochondrial metabolism has become possible and topical. Although AX has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects in various cells, the mechanisms are quite different. In particular, the role of AX on mitochondrial metabolism in macrophages is still unknown. In this study, we investigated the effect of AX on mitochondria-mediated inflammation and its mechanisms in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. AX attenuated the mitochondrial O2− production and maintained the mitochondrial membrane potential, implying that AX preserved mitochondrial homeostasis to avoid LPS stimulation-induced mitochondrial dysfunction. Additionally, AX prevented the decrease in mitochondrial complexes I, II, and III, which were caused by LPS stimulation. Especially, AX inhibited the reduction in mitochondrial succinate dehydrogenase (SDH; complex II) activity and upregulated the protein and mRNA level of SDH complex, subunit B. Furthermore, AX blocked the IL-1β expression by regulating the SDH-HIF-1α axis and suppressed the energy shift from an OXPHOS phenotype to a glycolysis phenotype. These findings revealed important effects of AX on mitochondrial enzymes as well as on mitochondrial energy metabolism in the immune response. In addition, these raised the possibility that AX plays an important role in other diseases caused by SDH mutation and metabolic disorders.
Protective Effects of Phosphatidylcholine against Hepatic and Renal Cell Injury from Advanced Glycation End Products
Authors: Choi Jihye , Song Inbong , Lee Sangmin , You Myungjo , Kwon Jungkee
Published: October 2022

Background and Objectives: Receptors of the advanced glycation products (RAGE) are activated to promote cell death and contributes to chronic diseases such as diabetes and inflammation. Advanced glycation end products (AGEs), which interact with RAGE are complex compounds synthesized during diabetes development and are presumed to play a significant role in pathogenesis of diabetes. Phosphatidylcholine (PC), a polyunsaturated fatty acid found in egg yolk, mustard, and soybean, is thought to exert anti-inflammatory activity. We investigated the effects of PC on AGEs-induced hepatic and renal cell injury. Materials and Methods: In this study, we evaluated cytokine and NF-κB/MAPK signal pathway activity in AGEs induced human liver (HepG2) cells and human kidney (HK2) cells with and without PC treatment. Results: PC reduced RAGE expression and attenuated levels of inflammatory cytokines and NF-kB/MAPK signaling. Moreover, cells treated with PC exhibited a significant reduction in cytotoxicity, oxidative stress, and inflammatory factor levels. Conclusions: These findings suggest that PC could be an effective functional material for hepatic and renal injury involving with oxidative stress caused by AGEs during diabetic conditions.
Analytical Study Regarding the Behavior of Cr-Co and Ni-Cr in Saliva
Authors: Oana Armencia Adina , Antohe Magda , Săveanu Cătălina Iulia , Budală Dana , Balcoș Carina , Prelipceanu Otilia-Sanda , Prelipceanu Marius , Vicoveanu Dragoș Ionuț
Published: October 2022

Background and Objectives: The interaction between dental alloys and saliva affects both its own properties and those of metallic materials. Materials and Methods: Samples made of Cr-Co and Ni-Cr were studied. It was opted for corrosion under tension, scanning electron microscopy was used to characterize the surface morphology, and the chemical composition of the surface was assessed with the help of an Energy Dispersive Spectrometer. In vitro testing of the cytotoxic impact of the study eluates was carried out by flow cytometric analysis. Results: Pitting areas appear in the mass of the Ni-Cr alloy. Nickel, Manganese, and Cobalt dissolve and go into the solution. Corrosion is superficial in the case of the Cr-Co alloy, the corrosion points are shallow, and the amount of dissolved metal is relatively small. Mostly Nickel passes into the solution, unlike Chromium and Cobalt, which remain at this level. We noticed an increase in the viability of cell cultures in the case of Cr-Co alloy and a decrease in the number of living cells (87%) for Ni-Cr alloy. Conclusions: Common alloys (Ni-Cr and Cr-Co) are prone to corrosion, because they lack structural features that would shield the alloy from corrosion agents.
Classification of Nanomaterials and the Effect of Graphene Oxide (GO) and Recently Developed Nanoparticles on the Ultrafiltration Membrane and Their Applications: A Review
Authors: Al-Maliki Raghad M. , Alsalhy Qusay F. , Al-Jubouri Sama , Salih Issam K. , AbdulRazak Adnan A. , Shehab Mohammed Ahmed , Németh Zoltán , Hernadi Klara
Published: October 2022

The emergence of mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) or nanocomposite membranes embedded with inorganic nanoparticles (NPs) has opened up a possibility for developing different polymeric membranes with improved physicochemical properties, mechanical properties and performance for resolving environmental and energy-effective water purification. This paper presents an overview of the effects of different hydrophilic nanomaterials, including mineral nanomaterials (e.g., silicon dioxide (SiO2) and zeolite), metals oxide (e.g., copper oxide (CuO), zirconium dioxide (ZrO2), zinc oxide (ZnO), antimony tin oxide (ATO), iron (III) oxide (Fe2O3) and tungsten oxide (WOX)), two-dimensional transition (e.g., MXene), metal–organic framework (MOFs), covalent organic frameworks (COFs) and carbon-based nanomaterials (such as carbon nanotubes and graphene oxide (GO)). The influence of these nanoparticles on the surface and structural changes in the membrane is thoroughly discussed, in addition to the performance efficiency and antifouling resistance of the developed membranes. Recently, GO has shown a considerable capacity in wastewater treatment. This is due to its nanometer-sized holes, ultrathin layer and light and sturdy nature. Therefore, we discuss the effect of the addition of hydrophilic GO in neat form or hyper with other nanoparticles on the properties of different polymeric membranes. A hybrid composite of various NPs has a distinctive style and high-quality products can be designed to allow membrane technology to grow and develop. Hybrid composite NPs could be used on a large scale in the future due to their superior mechanical qualities. A summary and future prospects are offered based on the current discoveries in the field of mixed matrix membranes. This review presents the current progress of mixed matrix membranes, the challenges that affect membrane performance and recent applications for wastewater treatment systems.
Opportunities of Reducing the Energy Consumption of Seawater Reverse Osmosis Desalination by Exploiting Salinity Gradients
Authors: Aumesquet-Carreto Miguel-Ángel , Ortega-Delgado Bartolomé , García-Rodríguez Lourdes
Published: October 2022

This work presents a performance assessment of three seawater reverse osmosis—pressure-retarded osmosis (SWRO-PRO) hybrid schemes for energy consumption reduction in seawater desalination applications by using an external low salinity water source. For comparison purposes, another arrangement based on the conventional SWRO process combined with brackish water RO (BWRO) and desalination was analyzed. Reverse osmosis system analysis software environments were used to select the best SWRO configuration and operating conditions. A purposely developed model was used to evaluate the PRO system. Two different cases were assessed depending on the origin of the external low-salinity resource for the PRO process: industrial wastewater and urban treated wastewater. In the case of the industrial wastewater, due to regulations on wastewater reclamation, the best arrangement would be the first SWRO-PRO scheme which was analyzed with a specific energy consumption of 1.54 kWh/m3. If urban treated wastewater is available as an external resource, the results obtained show that this scheme, leading to the minimum specific energy consumption of 1.46 kWh/m3, is the conventional SWRO combined with BWRO. Therefore, hybrid SWRO-PRO systems are recommended to reduce the specific energy consumption of seawater desalination if an industrial wastewater source with low osmotic pressure is available.
Evaluation of Fracture Properties of Two Metallic Materials under Hydrogen Gas Conditions by Using XFEM
Authors: Kim Dong-Hyun , Park Min Jeong , Chang Yoon-Suk , Baek Un Bong
Published: October 2022

Interest in hydrogen energy is increasing due to its eco-friendliness and ease of use. Research is being conducted to produce and use hydrogen in various fields such as hydrogen vehicles and nuclear power plants. However, considering the purity requirements and the need for containment, experiments with hydrogen have several constraints, such as accounting for the charging and purging time. In this study, the effects of hydrogen gas on the fracture properties of T6 heat-treated 6061 aluminum alloy (Al6061-T6) and Chromium-molybdenum steel (SA372) were investigated using the extended finite element method (XFEM). First, numerical analyses for smooth and notched slow strain rate tensile test specimens under air and hydrogen gas conditions were conducted using a multi-island genetic algorithm and XFEM to derive true stress–strain data and damage parameters of the two materials based on experimental results. Second, the fracture resistance curves of ½T-compact tension (CT) specimens made of SA372 steel were determined by crack growth analyses using the calibrated parameters. The estimated JQ values were compared with those from experiments to validate the method, of which differences were less than 20%. Finally, the fracture properties of Al6061-T6 alloy were predicted using the same method with ½T-CT specimens.
Grain Boundary Precipitation Control of GCP Phase Using TCP or A2 Phase in Ni-Based Alloys
Authors: Ida Shuntaro , Yamagata Ryosuke , Nakashima Hirotoyo , Kobayashi Satoru , Takeyama Masao
Published: October 2022

To cover the grain boundary (GB) of the Ni phase with precipitates, the GB precipitation behavior of both topologically close-packed (TCP) or A2 and geometrically close-packed (GCP) phases was investigated in two Ni–Nb–(Co, Cr) ternary systems. The Ni/TCP or A2/GCP three-phase region existed in both systems. In the Ni-Nb-Co ternary system, Nb was approximately equally partitioned into both Co7Nb2 (mC18 structure, TCP) and (Ni, Co)3Nb (D019 structure, GCP) phases. In the Ni–Nb-Cr ternary system, Nb and Cr were mainly partitioned into the Ni3Nb (D0a structure, GCP) and Cr (A2 structure) phases, respectively. In the Ni–Nb–Co ternary system, the Co7Nb2 phase grew along the GB, whereas the (Ni, Co)3Nb phase grew toward the grain interior (GI). However, the growth of the Ni3Nb phase toward the GI was suppressed in the Ni–Nb–Cr ternary system. The suppression of growth of the GCP phase and covering the GB using both the TCP or A2 and GCP phases might be possible in a system where the precipitation of the GCP phase nucleating on the GB prior to the TCP or A2 phase increases supersaturation for precipitation of the TCP or A2 phase.
Development of Low-Alloyed Low-Carbon Multiphase Steels under Conditions Similar to Those Used in Continuous Annealing and Galvanizing Lines
Authors: Gutiérrez-Castañeda Emmanuel , Galicia-Ruiz Carlos , Hernández-Hernández Lorena , Torres-Castillo Alberto , De Lange Dirk Frederik , Salinas-Rodríguez Armando , Deaquino-Lara Rogelio , Saldaña-Garcés Rocío , Bedolla-Jacuinde Arnoldo , Reyes-Domínguez Iván , Aguilar-Carrillo Javier
Published: October 2022

In the present work, a Cr+Mo+Si low-alloyed low-carbon steel was fabricated at laboratory scale and processed to produce multiphase advanced high-strength steels (AHSS), under thermal cycles similar to those used in a continuous annealing and galvanizing process. Cold-rolled steel samples with a microstructure constituted of pearlite, bainite, and martensite in a matrix ferrite, were subjected to an intercritical annealing (817.5 °C, 15 s) and further isothermal bainitic treatment (IBT) to investigate the effects of time (30 s, 60 s, and 120 s) and temperature (425 °C, 450 °C, and 475 °C) on the resulting microstructure and mechanical properties. Results of an in situ phase transformation analysis show that annealing in the two-phase region leads to a microstructure of ferrite + austenite; the latter transforms, on cooling to IBT, to pro-eutectoid ferrite and bainite, and the austenite-to-bainite transformation advanced during IBT holding. On final cooling to room temperature, austenite transforms to martensite, but a small amount is also retained in the microstructure. Samples with the lowest temperature and largest IBT time resulted in the highest ultimate tensile strength/ductility ratio (1230.6 MPa-16.0%), which allows to classify the steel within the third generation of AHSS. The results were related to the presence of retained austenite with appropriate stability against mechanically induced martensitic transformation.
Liver Fetuin-A at Initiation of Insulin Resistance
Authors: Lanthier Nicolas , Lebrun Valérie , Molendi-Coste Olivier , van Rooijen Nico , Leclercq Isabelle A.
Published: October 2022

Hepatokines (liver secreted proteins with possible distant action) are emerging potential players in insulin resistance in type 2 diabetic patients. Here, we explored the effect of a high-fat diet on the expression of fetuin-A, one of those candidate liver proteins, and its relationship with liver macrophage activation. Mice were fed a normal diet or a high-fat diet for 3 days, known to initiate steatosis and liver insulin resistance. A preventive liver macrophage depletion was obtained by intravenous injection of clodronate-loaded liposomes. The mRNA and protein expression of fetuin-A was evaluated by qPCR, Western blot and immunofluorescence on different insulin-sensitive tissues (liver, adipose tissue, and muscle). Short-term high-fat diet-induced steatosis, liver macrophage activation, and hepatic insulin resistance together with a significantly increased expression of liver AHSG (α2-HS glycoprotein/fetuin-A) mRNA and serum fetuin-A concentration. On immunofluorescence, fetuin-A was mostly expressed in centrilobular hepatocytes. This increase in fetuin-A under high-fat diet was not evidenced in other peripheral insulin-sensitive tissues (skeletal muscle and adipose tissue). The mRNA expression of α2-HS glycoprotein was 800 times higher within the liver compared with the adipose tissue or the muscle. Liver macrophage depletion that significantly ameliorated insulin sensitivity was associated with a significant decrease in α2-HS glycoprotein mRNA expression. In conclusion, this study demonstrated liver fetuin-A overexpression at the initiation of high-fat diet feeding, concurrent with hepatic steatosis and insulin resistance. Targeting liver macrophages in this setting reduced liver α2-HS glycoprotein expression suggesting that fetuin-A acts as an hepatokine with proinsulin resistance effects.
Revealing the Phenolic Acids in Cardamine violifolia Leaves by Transcriptome and Metabolome Analyses
Authors: Rao Shen , Cong Xin , Liu Haodong , Hu Yili , Yang Wei , Cheng Hua , Cheng Shuiyuan , Zhang Yue
Published: October 2022

Cardamine violifolia, a species belonging to the Brassicaceae family, is a selenium hyperaccumulator and a nutritious leafy vegetable. Our previous study showed that C. violifolia leaves are rich in total phenolic acids, but the composition and corresponding genes remain unknown. In this study, we investigated the phenolic acid compounds and potential gene regulation network in the outer leaves (OL) and central leaves (CL) of C. violifolia using transcriptome and metabolome analyses. Results showed that the OL contained a higher total phenolic acid content than the CL. Metabolome analysis revealed a total of 115 phenolic acids, 62 of which (e.g., arbutin, rosmarinic acid, hydroxytyrosol acetate, and sinapic acid) were differentially accumulated between the CL and OL of C. violifolia. Transcriptome analysis showed that the differentially expressed genes were significantly enriched in the pathways of secondary metabolite biosynthesis and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis. Conjoint analysis of the transcriptome and metabolome indicated that seven genes (CYP84A1, CYP84A4, CADH9, SGT1, UGT72E1, OMT1, and CCR2) and eight phenolic acids (sinapic acid, sinapyl alcohol, 5-O-caffeoylshikimic acid, sinapoyl malate, coniferin, coniferyl alcohol, L-phenylalanine, and ferulic acid) constituted a possible regulatory network. This study revealed the phenolic acid compounds and possible regulatory network of C. violifolia leaves and deepened our understanding of its nutrient value.
Signatures of Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Impaired Fatty Acid Metabolism in Plasma of Patients with Post-Acute Sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC)
Authors: Guntur Vamsi P. , Nemkov Travis , de Boer Esther , Mohning Michael P. , Baraghoshi David , Cendali Francesca I. , San-Millán Inigo , Petrache Irina , D’Alessandro Angelo
Published: October 2022

Exercise intolerance is a major manifestation of post-acute sequelae of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus infection (PASC, or “long-COVID”). Exercise intolerance in PASC is associated with higher arterial blood lactate accumulation and lower fatty acid oxidation rates during graded exercise tests to volitional exertion, suggesting altered metabolism and mitochondrial dysfunction. It remains unclear whether the profound disturbances in metabolism that have been identified in plasma from patients suffering from acute coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are also present in PASC. To bridge this gap, individuals with a history of previous acute COVID-19 infection that did not require hospitalization were enrolled at National Jewish Health (Denver, CO, USA) and were grouped into those that developed PASC (n = 29) and those that fully recovered (n = 16). Plasma samples from the two groups were analyzed via mass spectrometry-based untargeted metabolomics and compared against plasma metabolic profiles of healthy control individuals (n = 30). Observational demographic and clinical data were retrospectively abstracted from the medical record. Compared to plasma of healthy controls or individuals who recovered from COVID-19, PASC plasma exhibited significantly higher free- and carnitine-conjugated mono-, poly-, and highly unsaturated fatty acids, accompanied by markedly lower levels of mono-, di- and tricarboxylates (pyruvate, lactate, citrate, succinate, and malate), polyamines (spermine) and taurine. Plasma from individuals who fully recovered from COVID-19 exhibited an intermediary metabolic phenotype, with milder disturbances in fatty acid metabolism and higher levels of spermine and taurine. Of note, depletion of tryptophan—a hallmark of disease severity in COVID-19—is not normalized in PASC patients, despite normalization of kynurenine levels—a tryptophan metabolite that predicts mortality in hospitalized COVID-19 patients. In conclusion, PASC plasma metabolites are indicative of altered fatty acid metabolism and dysfunctional mitochondria-dependent lipid catabolism. These metabolic profiles obtained at rest are consistent with previously reported mitochondrial dysfunction during exercise, and may pave the way for therapeutic intervention focused on restoring mitochondrial fat-burning capacity.
Attenuation of Palmitic Acid-Induced Intestinal Epithelial Barrier Dysfunction by 6-Shogaol in Caco-2 Cells: The Role of MiR-216a-5p/TLR4/NF-κB Axis
Authors: Ouyang Fangxin , Li Bo , Wang Yuli , Xu Longhua , Li Dapeng , Li Feng , Sun-Waterhouse Dongxiao
Published: October 2022

Palmitic acid (PA) can lead to intestinal epithelial barrier dysfunction. In this study, the protective effects and working mechanisms of 6-shogaol against PA-induced intestinal barrier dysfunction were investigated in human intestinal epithelial Caco-2 cells. Transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER), paracellular flux, qRT-PCR, immunofluorescence, and Western blot experiments showed that the 24-h treatment with 400 μM PA damaged intestinal barrier integrity, as evidenced by a reduction of 48% in the TEER value, a 4.1-fold increase in the flux of fluorescein isothiocyanate-dextran 4000 (FD-4), and decreases in the mRNA and protein expression of tight junction (TJ)-associated proteins (claudin-1, occludin, and ZO-1), compared with the control. The PA treatment significantly (p < 0.05) increased the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α)) in Caco-2 cells due to the upregulation of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88), phosphorylated nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) proteins, and downregulation of miR-216a-5p (which directly targeted TLR4). Co-treatment with PA and 6-shogaol (2.5 μM) significantly (p < 0.05) attenuated PA-induced changes through regulation of TJs via the miR-216a-5p/TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway. This study provides insights into the functions and working mechanisms of 6-shogaol as a promising food-derived agent against PA-induced intestinal epithelial barrier dysfunction.
Enhanced Ageing Performance of Sulfonic Acid-Grafted Pt/C Catalysts
Authors: Xia Yuzhen , Lei Hangwei , Sun Chuanfu , Wen Xiaohao , Wang Zichen , Hu Guilin , Fang Baizeng
Published: October 2022

Chemical functionalization of carbon support for Pt catalysts is a promising way to enhance the performance of catalysts. In this study, Pt/C catalysts grafted with various amounts of phenylsulfonic acid groups were prepared under mild conditions. The influence of sulfonic acid groups on the physiochemical characteristics and electrochemical activities of the modified catalysts were studied using X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, a transmission electron microscope, and cyclic voltammetry (CV). The presence of the chemical groups enhanced the hydrogen adsorption onto/desorption off the Pt surface during the CV cycling. In contrast, the hydrogen peaks of the grafted catalysts increased after 500 CV cycles, especially for Pt (111) facets. The highest electrochemical surface area (ECSA) after the aging test was obtained for the catalyst with 18.0 wt.% graft, which was ca. 87.3% higher than that of the non-functionalized Pt catalyst. In the density functional theory (DFT) calculation, it was proven that SO3H adsorption on the crystalline was beneficial for Pt stability. The adsorption energy and bond distance of the adsorbed SO3H on Pt (110), (100), and (111) surfaces were calculated. All the stable configurations were obtained when O from S-O single bond or S was bound to the Pt surface, with the adsorption energy following the trend of (111)F > (100)H > (110)H. This result was consistent with the ECSA experiment, which explained the high electrochemical stability of the sulfonic acid groups-grafted Pt/C catalyst.
BPNN-Based Behavioral Modeling of the S-Parameter Variation Characteristics of PAs with Frequency at Different Temperatures
Authors: He Zhao , Zhou Shaohua
Published: October 2022

To address the issue of frequency nonlinearity modeling of RF PAs, which is rarely seen in the literature, a BPNN is applied to model the frequency nonlinearity of RF PAs in this paper. The BPNN is used to model the frequency nonlinearity of the RF PA, based on the actual measured S-parameter data at different ambient temperatures. The modeling results show that BPNN shows the advantage of a high accuracy in modeling the frequency nonlinearity of RF PAs. It is expected that a BPNN will also show the advantages of a high accuracy in the modeling process of other RF devices or circuits.
An Inductorless Gain-Controllable Wideband LNA Based on CCCIIs
Authors: Wan Qiuzhen , Liu Jiong , Chen Simiao
Published: October 2022

In this paper, an inductorless and gain-controllable 0.5~2.5 GHz wideband low noise amplifier (LNA) based on second generation current controlled current conveyors (CCCIIs) is presented. The proposed wideband LNA utilizes CCCIIs as building blocks to implement the amplifier stage and impedance matching stage. By varying the DC biasing current of the CCCII, the voltage gain of the proposed LNA is controllable in the range of 1~18 dB. In the frequency range of 0.5~2.5 GHz, the post-layout simulation results show that the proposed LNA has a typical voltage gain S21 of 12.6 dB with a gain ripple of ±1.5 dB, an input and output return loss (S11 and S22) of, respectively, −21.4 dB to −16.6 dB and −18.6 dB to −10.6 dB, and a high reverse isolation S12 of −65.2 dB to −39.5 dB. A noise figure of 4.05~4.35 dB is obtained across the whole band, and the input third-order intercept point (IIP3) is −2.5 dBm at 1.5 GHz. Using a 0.18 μm RF CMOS technology, the LNA occupies an active chip area of only 0.096 mm2 with a power consumption of 12.0 mW.
Identification of Bacterial Communities in Laboratory-Adapted Glyptotendipes tokunagai and Wild-Stream-Inhabiting Chironomus flaviplumus
Authors: Song Hokyung , Kim Won-Seok , Park Jae-Won , Kwak Ihn-Sil
Published: October 2022

Chironomidae (chironomid) are one of the dominant families in freshwater ecosystems, and they plays an important role in the food web. They have been used as an indicator for water quality assessment, as they are resistant to diverse environmental pollutants. In this study, we identified the microbiomes of two chironomid species to see if there are any endogenous bacterial groups which could contribute to the host survival. The studied species are Glyptotendipes tokunagai, a model species cultivated in a laboratory-controlled environment, and Chironomus flaviplumus captured in a field stream in Yeosu, Korea. DNAs were extracted from the whole body of the individual species, and the 16S rRNA gene was amplified. The amplified products were sequenced using an Illumina MiSeq platform. The microbiomes of G. tokunagai were homogeneous, having 20% of the core amplicon sequence variants overlapping between replicates sampled from different water tanks. In contrast, none of the core amplicon sequence variants overlapped in C.flaviplumus. In both chironomid groups, potential symbionts were identified. Dysgonomonas, which can degrade complex carbon sources, was found in more than half of the total microbiomes of G. tokunagai. Tyzzerella and Dechloromonas, which have been suggested to detoxify environmental pollutants, were identified in the microbiome of C.flaviplumus. This study can help elucidate the life strategies of chironomids in polluted or organic-rich environments.
Bioremediation Potential of Native Bacillus sp. Strains as a Sustainable Strategy for Cadmium Accumulation of Theobroma cacao in Amazonas Region
Authors: Arce-Inga Marielita , González-Pérez Alex Ricardo , Hernandez-Diaz Elgar , Chuquibala-Checan Beimer , Chavez-Jalk Antony , Llanos-Gomez Kelvin James , Leiva-Espinoza Santos Triunfo , Oliva-Cruz Segundo Manuel , Cumpa-Velasquez Liz Marjory
Published: October 2022

Cacao plant cadmium accumulation has become a major concern, especially for small Amazonian producers. A sustainable alternative to address its toxicity is the use of cadmium removal bacteria. In this regard, 138 rhizosphere isolates from cacao were examined. Supported by their phenotypic characterization and in vitro cadmium tolerance, three hypertolerant bacteria were selected and identified as members of the Bacillus (S1C2, R1C2) and Pseudomonas (V3C3) genera. They were able to grow normally and reduce the cadmium content under in vitro conditions. However, only S1C2 and R1C2 evidenced to employ intracellular Cd2+ accumulation, suggesting the variability of bacterial detoxification mechanisms. Their bioremediation capacity for Theobroma cacao CCN51 was also analyzed. Surprisingly, we found high detectable levels of Cd2+ in the non-cadmium supplemented control, suggesting an extra source of cadmium in the pot. Moreover, despite their cadmium reduction performance under in vitro conditions, they exerted highly variable outcomes on stem cadmium accumulation. While S1C2 and R1C2 showed a considerable reduction of Cd content in cacao stems, the strain V3C3 did not show any effect on Cd content. This highlights the complexity of the plant–bacteria interactions and the importance of the in vivo test for the selection of promising PGPR bacteria. Overall, our results suggest the cadmium alleviation potential and promising prospects of native Bacillus strains associated with Amazonian cacao.
Arthrospira platensis as Bioremediator of Rhenium Mono- and Polymetallic Synthetic Effluents
Authors: Zinicovscaia Inga , Cepoi Liliana , Rudi Ludmila , Chiriac Tatiana , Yushin Nikita , Grozdov Dmitrii
Published: October 2022

Rhenium is a scarce and highly important metal for industry and technology. In the present study, the cyanobacterium Arthrospira platensis (Spirulina) was used to remove rhenium and related elements (Mo and Cu) from mono- and polymetallic synthetic effluents. Metal ions in different concentrations were added to the culture medium on the first, third, and fifth days of biomass growth, and their uptake by the biomass was traced using ICP-AES technique. The accumulation of rhenium in the biomass was dependent on the chemical composition of the effluents, and the highest uptake of 161 mg/kg was achieved in the Re-Cu system. The presence of rhenium, copper, and molybdenum affected the productivity of Spirulina biomass and its biochemical composition (proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, phycobiliproteins, the content of chlorophyll α and β-carotene). With the growth of biomass in the presence of rhenium or rhenium and molybdenum, a pronounced increase in productivity and protein content was observed. The presence of copper in systems has a negative effect on biomass productivity and biochemical composition. Arthrospira platensis may be of interest as a bioremediator of rhenium-containing effluents of various chemical compositions.
Chronicle of Research into Lichen-Associated Bacteria
Authors: He Zichen , Naganuma Takeshi
Published: October 2022

Lichens are mutually symbiotic systems consisting of fungal and algal symbionts. While diverse lichen-forming fungal species are known, limited species of algae form lichens. Plasticity in the combination of fungal and algal species with different eco-physiological properties may contribute to the worldwide distribution of lichens, even in extreme habitats. Lichens have been studied systematically for more than 200 years; however, plasticity in fungal–algal/cyanobacterial symbiotic combinations is still unclear. In addition, the association between non-cyanobacterial bacteria and lichens has attracted attention in recent years. The types, diversity, and functions of lichen-associated bacteria have been studied using both culture-based and culture-independent methods. This review summarizes the history of systematic research on lichens and lichen-associated bacteria and provides insights into the current status of research in this field.
A Short Tale of the Origin of Proteins and Ribosome Evolution
Authors: Farías-Rico José Arcadio , Mourra-Díaz Carlos Michel
Published: October 2022

Proteins are the workhorses of the cell and have been key players throughout the evolution of all organisms, from the origin of life to the present era. How might life have originated from the prebiotic chemistry of early Earth? This is one of the most intriguing unsolved questions in biology. Currently, however, it is generally accepted that amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, were abiotically available on primitive Earth, which would have made the formation of early peptides in a similar fashion possible. Peptides are likely to have coevolved with ancestral forms of RNA. The ribosome is the most evident product of this coevolution process, a sophisticated nanomachine that performs the synthesis of proteins codified in genomes. In this general review, we explore the evolution of proteins from their peptide origins to their folding and regulation based on the example of superoxide dismutase (SOD1), a key enzyme in oxygen metabolism on modern Earth.
Pathways for Understanding Blue Carbon Microbiomes with Amplicon Sequencing
Authors: Hurtado-McCormick Valentina , Trevathan-Tackett Stacey M. , Bowen Jennifer L. , Connolly Rod M. , Duarte Carlos M. , Macreadie Peter I.
Published: October 2022

The capacity of Blue Carbon Ecosystems to act as carbon sinks is strongly influenced by the metabolism of soil-associated microbes, which ultimately determine how much carbon is accumulated or returned to the atmosphere. The rapid evolution of sequencing technologies has facilitated the generation of tremendous amounts of data on what taxa comprise belowground microbial assemblages, largely available as isolated datasets, offering an opportunity for synthesis research that informs progress on understanding Blue Carbon microbiomes. We identified questions that can be addressed with a synthesis approach, including the high variability across datasets, space, and time due to differing sampling techniques, ecosystem or vegetation specificity, and the relationship between microbiome community and edaphic properties, particularly soil carbon. To address these questions, we collated 34 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing datasets, including bulk soil or rhizosphere from seagrass, mangroves, and saltmarshes within publicly available repositories. We identified technical and theoretical challenges that precluded a synthesis of multiple studies with currently available data, and opportunities for addressing the knowledge gaps within Blue Carbon microbial ecology going forward. Here, we provide a standardisation toolbox that supports enacting tasks for the acquisition, management, and integration of Blue Carbon-associated sequencing data and metadata to potentially elucidate novel mechanisms behind Blue Carbon dynamics.
Flotation Performance and Gas Dispersion Properties in a Laboratory Flotation Cell
Authors: Femenias Francisco , Maldonado Miguel , Miranda Nicolas , Gutierrez Leopoldo
Published: October 2022

Flotation is a complex process that exhibits high dimensionality which makes modeling and optimization very challenging. One technique to alleviate the dimensionality problem is to combine variables together into more informative ones. Bubble surface area flux and air recovery are examples of dimensionality reduction. Gas holdup also captures the effect of a plurality of variables including gas rate, bubble size, surfactant type, and concentration. This work makes use of a dual flotation–conductivity cell to explore the relationship between gas dispersion properties, including frother concentration and flotation performance. Results demonstrate that gas holdup effectively captured the effect of gas rate and frother concentration and better correlates to flotation performance.
3D Mineral Prospectivity Mapping of Zaozigou Gold Deposit, West Qinling, China: Machine Learning-Based Mineral Prediction
Authors: Kong Yunhui , Chen Guodong , Liu Bingli , Xie Miao , Yu Zhengbo , Li Cheng , Wu Yixiao , Gao Yaxin , Zha Shuai , Zhang Hanyuan , Wang Lu , Tang Rui
Published: October 2022

This paper focuses on researching the scientific problem of deep extraction and inference of favorable geological and geochemical information about mineralization at depth, based on which a deep mineral resources prediction model is established and machine learning approaches are used to carry out deep quantitative mineral resources prediction. The main contents include: (i) discussing the method of 3D geochemical anomaly extraction under the multi-fractal content-volume (C-V) models, extracting the 12 element anomalies and constructing a 3D geochemical anomaly data volume model for laying the data foundation for researching geochemical element distribution and association; (ii) extracting the element association characteristics of primary geochemical halos and inferring deep metallogenic factors based on compositional data analysis (CoDA), including quantitatively extracting the geochemical element associations corresponding to ore-bearing structures (Sb-Hg) based on a data-driven CoDA framework, quantitatively identifying the front halo element association (As-Sb-Hg), near-ore halo element association (Au-Ag-Cu-Pb-Zn) and tail halo element association (W-Mo-Co-Bi), which provide quantitative indicators for the primary haloes’ structural analysis at depth; (iii) establishing a deep geological and geochemical mineral resources prediction model, which is constructed by five quantitative mineralization indicators as input variables: fracture buffer zone, element association (Sb-Hg) of ore-bearing structures, metallogenic element Au anomaly, near-ore halo element association Au-Ag-Cu-Pb-Zn and the ratio of front halo to tail halo (As-Sb-Hg)/(W-Mo-Bi); and (iv) three-dimensional MPM based on the maximum entropy model (MaxEnt) and Gaussian mixture model (GMM), and delineating exploration targets at depth. The results show that the C-V model can identify the geological element distribution and the CoDA method can extract geochemical element associations in 3D space reliably, and the machine learning methods of MaxEnt and GMM have high performance in 3D MPM.
Non-Invasive Paleo-Metabolomics and Paleo-Proteomics Analyses Reveal the Complex Funerary Treatment of the Early 18th Dynasty Dignitary NEBIRI (QV30)
Authors: Barberis Elettra , Manfredi Marcello , Ferraris Enrico , Bianucci Raffaella , Marengo Emilio
Published: October 2022

Biochemical investigations were carried out on the embalmed head of Nebiri (Museo Egizio, Turin; S-5109)—an 18th Dynasty Ancient Egyptian dignitary—and on the canopic jar containing his lungs (Museo Egizio, Turin; S. 5111/02) with the aim of characterizing the organ’s (lung) specific paleo-proteins and of identifying the compounds used in his embalming “recipe”. The application of a functionalized film method allowed us to perform a non-invasive sampling. Paleo-proteomics confirmed the presence of lung tissue-specific proteins (organ specific) as well as the presence of proteins linked to severe inflammation. Paleoproteomics and paleometabolomics further allowed the identification of the main components of Nebiri’s embalming recipe: animal fats and glue, balms, essential oils, aromatic plants, heated Pistacia, and coniferous resins. Both the use of Pistacia and coniferous resins in an early 18th Dynasty individual confirm Nebiri’s high social status. The technique applied offers a targeted approach to the chemical characterization of human tissues, embalming compounds, and organic materials layering in pottery. The ability of the functionalized film method to harvest all types of compounds, from macromolecules (i.e., proteins) to small molecules (i.e., organic acids) opens a new path in the study of ancient material culture; furthermore, it allows to perform untargeted analysis, which is necessary when no a priori information is available.
Functional Properties of Rice Bran Proteins Extracted from Low-Heat-Treated Defatted Rice Bran
Authors: Cho Seong-Jun , Lee Sang-Deok , Han Sung-Wook
Published: October 2022

Rice bran is rich in proteins with high nutritional values. However, current protein extraction methods from rice bran are greatly limited by their low yield. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to develop a feasible method to extract rice bran protein (RBP) of high purity and quality. We prepared RBP using low-heat-treated defatted rice bran (LDRB) and analyzed its functional properties. The protein solubility of LDRB increased from 25.4% to 56% upon increasing the pH level and was more than double that of heat-stabilized defatted rice bran. RBP prepared from LDRB had good functional properties, comparable to those of soy proteins. The emulsifying capacities of RBP were 424 ± 14 mL/g at pH 4 and 530 ± 21 mL/g at pH 7.0. Under acidic conditions, RBP showed a better emulsifying capacity than soy proteins (262 ± 1 mL/g at pH 4). RPB showed water-binding and oil-absorption capacities of 270 ± 35 g/100 g and 268 ± 30 g/100 g, respectively. Moreover, RBP showed better foaming capacity (610% vs. 590%) and foam stability (83% vs. 4%) than soy proteins; however, it lacked gelling properties. This study demonstrated that RBP is a potential new protein source in the food industry.
The Design of 3D-Printed Polylactic Acid–Bioglass Composite Scaffold: A Potential Implant Material for Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Sultan Sahar , Thomas Nebu , Varghese Mekha , Dalvi Yogesh , Joy Shilpa , Hall Stephen , Mathew Aji P
Published: October 2022

Bio-based and patient-specific three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds can present next generation strategies for bone tissue engineering (BTE) to treat critical bone size defects. In the present study, a composite filament of poly lactic acid (PLA) and 45S5 bioglass (BG) were used to 3D print scaffolds intended for bone tissue regeneration. The thermally induced phase separation (TIPS) technique was used to produce composite spheres that were extruded into a continuous filament to 3D print a variety of composite scaffolds. These scaffolds were analyzed for their macro- and microstructures, mechanical properties, in vitro cytotoxicity and in vivo biocompatibility. The results show that the BG particles were homogeneously distributed within the PLA matrix and contributed to an 80% increase in the mechanical strength of the scaffolds. The in vitro cytotoxicity analysis of PLA-BG scaffolds using L929 mouse fibroblast cells confirmed their biocompatibility. During the in vivo studies, the population of the cells showed an elevated level of macrophages and active fibroblasts that are involved in collagen extracellular matrix synthesis. This study demonstrates successful processing of PLA-BG 3D-printed composite scaffolds and their potential as an implant material with a tunable pore structure and mechanical properties for regenerative bone tissue engineering.
Microplastic-Free Microcapsules to Encapsulate Health-Promoting Limonene Oil
Authors: Baiocco Daniele , Zhang Zhibing
Published: October 2022

Fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry has long included many appealing essential oils in products to meet consumers’ needs. Among all, the demand for limonene (LM) has recently surged due to its broad-spectrum health benefits, with applications in cosmetic, detergent, and food products. However, LM is extremely volatile, hence has often been encapsulated for a longer shelf-life. To date, mostly non-biodegradable synthetic polymers have been exploited to fabricate the microcapsule shells, and the resulting microcapsules contribute to the accumulation of microplastic in the environment. So far, information on LM-entrapping microcapsules with a natural microplastic-free shell and their mechanism of formation is limited, and there is lack of an in-depth characterisation of their mechanical and adhesive properties, which are crucial for understanding their potential performance at end-use applications. The present research aims towards developing safe microcapsules with a core of LM fabricated via complex coacervation (CC) using gum Arabic (GA) and fungally sourced chitosan (fCh) as shell precursors. The encapsulation efficiency (EE) for LM was quantified by gas chromatography (GC) separation method. The morphology of microcapsules was investigated via bright-field optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy, and their mechanical properties were characterised using a micromanipulation technique. Moreover, the adhesive properties of the resulting microcapsules were studied via a bespoke microfluidic device fitted with a polyethylene-terephthalate (PET) substrate and operating at increasingly hydrodynamic shear stress (HSS). Spherical core-shell microcapsules (EE ~45%) with a mean size of 38 ± 2 μm and a relatively smooth surface were obtained. Their mean rupture force and nominal rupture stress were 0.9 ± 0.1 mN and 2.1 ± 0.2 MPa, respectively, which are comparable to those of other microcapsules with synthetic shells, e.g., urea- and melamine-formaldehyde. It was also found that the fCh-GA complexed shell provided promising adhesive properties onto PET films, leading to a microcapsule retention of ~85% and ~60% at low (≤50 mPa) and high shear stress (0.9 Pa), respectively. Interestingly, these values are similar to the adhesion data available in literature for microplastic-based microcapsules, such as melamine-formaldehyde (50–90%). Overall, these findings suggest that microplastics-free microcapsules with a core of oil have been successfully fabricated, and can offer a potential for more sustainable, consumer- and environmentally friendly applications in FMCGs.