bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hybrid Fluoro-Based Polymers/Graphite Foil for H2/Natural Gas Separation
Authors: Malara Angela , Bonaccorsi Lucio , Fotia Antonio , Antonucci Pier Luigi , Frontera Patrizia
Published: March 2023

Membrane technologies and materials development appear crucial for the hydrogen/natural gas separation in the impending transition to the hydrogen economy. Transporting hydrogen through the existing natural gas network could result less expensive than a brand-new pipe system. Currently, many studies are focused on the development of novel structured materials for gas separation applications, including the combination of various kind of additives in polymeric matrix. Numerous gas pairs have been investigated and the gas transport mechanism in those membranes has been elucidated. However, the selective separation of high purity hydrogen from hydrogen/methane mixtures is still a big challenge and nowadays needs a great improvement to promote the transition towards more sustainable energy source. In this context, because of their remarkable properties, fluoro-based polymers, such as PVDF-HFP and NafionTM, are among the most popular membrane materials, even if a further optimization is needed. In this study, hybrid polymer-based membranes were deposited as thin films on large graphite surfaces. Different weight ratios of PVDF-HFP and NafionTM polymers supported over 200 μm thick graphite foils were tested toward hydrogen/methane gas mixture separation. Small punch tests were carried out to study the membrane mechanical behaviour, reproducing the testing conditions. Finally, the permeability and the gas separation activity of hydrogen/methane over membranes were investigated at room temperature (25 °C) and near atmospheric pressure (using a pressure difference of 1.5 bar). The best performance of the developed membranes was registered when the 4:1 polymer PVDF-HFP/NafionTM weight ratio was used. In particular, starting from the 1:1 hydrogen/methane gas mixture, a 32.6% (v%) H2 enrichment was measured. Furthermore, there was a good agreement between the experimental and theoretical selectivity values.
Supported Ionic Liquid Phase Catalysts Dedicated for Continuous Flow Synthesis
Authors: Latos Piotr , Wolny Anna , Chrobok Anna
Published: March 2023

Heterogeneous catalysis, although known for over a century, is constantly improved and plays a key role in solving the present problems in chemical technology. Thanks to the development of modern materials engineering, solid supports for catalytic phases having a highly developed surface are available. Recently, continuous-flow synthesis started to be a key technology in the synthesis of high added value chemicals. These processes are more efficient, sustainable, safer and cheaper to operate. The most promising is the use of heterogeneous catalyst with column-type fixed-bed reactors. The advantages of the use of heterogeneous catalyst in continuous flow reactors are the physical separation of product and catalyst, as well as the reduction in inactivation and loss of the catalyst. However, the state-of-the-art use of heterogeneous catalysts in flow systems compared to homogenous ones remains still open. The lifetime of heterogeneous catalysts remains a significant hurdle to realise sustainable flow synthesis. The goal of this review article was to present a state of knowledge concerning the application of Supported Ionic Liquid Phase (SILP) catalysts dedicated for continuous flow synthesis.
Ultrasonic Welding of PEEK Plates with CF Fabric Reinforcement—The Optimization of the Process by Neural Network Simulation
Authors: Alexenko Vladislav O. , Panin Sergey V. , Stepanov Dmitry Yu. , Byakov Anton V. , Bogdanov Alexey A. , Buslovich Dmitry G. , Panin Konstantin S. , Tian Defang
Published: March 2023

The optimal mode for ultrasonic welding (USW) of the “PEEK–ED (PEEK)–prepreg (PEI impregnated CF fabric)–ED (PEEK)–PEEK” lap joint was determined by artificial neural network (ANN) simulation, based on the sample of the experimental data expanded with the expert data set. The experimental verification of the simulation results showed that mode 10 (t = 900 ms, P = 1.7 atm, τ = 2000 ms) ensured the high strength properties and preservation of the structural integrity of the carbon fiber fabric (CFF). Additionally, it showed that the “PEEK–CFF prepreg–PEEK” USW lap joint could be fabricated by the “multi-spot” USW method with the optimal mode 10, which can resist the load per cycle of 50 MPa (the bottom HCF level). The USW mode, determined by ANN simulation for the neat PEEK adherends, did not provide joining both particulate and laminated composite adherends with the CFF prepreg reinforcement. The USW lap joints could be formed when the USW durations (t) were significantly increased up to 1200 and 1600 ms, respectively. In this case, the elastic energy is transferred more efficiently to the welding zone through the upper adherend.
Three-Dimensional Characterization of Polyurethane Foams Based on Biopolyols
Authors: De la Hoz Alford Lorenleyn , de Souza Camila Gomes Peçanha , Paciornik Sidnei , d’Almeida José Roberto M. , Leite Brenno Santos , Avila Harold C. , Léonard Fabien , Bruno Giovanni
Published: March 2023

Two biopolyol-based foams derived from banana leaves (BL) or stems (BS) were produced, and their compression mechanical behavior and 3D microstructure were characterized. Traditional compression and in situ tests were performed during 3D image acquisition using X-ray microtomography. A methodology of image acquisition, processing, and analysis was developed to discriminate the foam cells and measure their numbers, volumes, and shapes along with the compression steps. The two foams had similar compression behaviors, but the average cell volume was five times larger for the BS foam than the BL foam. It was also shown that the number of cells increased with increasing compression while the average cell volume decreased. Cell shapes were elongated and did not change with compression. A possible explanation for these characteristics was proposed based on the possibility of cell collapse. The developed methodology will facilitate a broader study of biopolyol-based foams intending to verify the possibility of using these foams as green alternatives to the typical petrol-based foams.
Statistical Analysis of Deviations from the Correct Shape of Surface Depending on Product Orientation in Workspace of Additive Machine
Authors: Garashchenko Yaroslav , Fedorovich Vladimir , Ostroverkh Yevgeniy , Dašić Predrag , Anđelković Maja , Onalla Halima
Published: March 2023

The peculiarity of additive manufacturing is that steps are formed on the product surface resulting from the layered building. The steps’ dimensions are determined by the deviations of the real surface from its correct shape specified by 3D model of the product. The orientation of the 3D model of the product in the workspace of the additive machine and the building step are the main factors determining the sizes of the steps. The article presents the results of a statistical analysis of deviations from the correct shape of the product surface obtained by additive manufacturing and based on a 3D model. Industrial products with varying surface complexity were selected as test 3D models. These 3D models were studied in a variety of orientation options in the workspace of the additive machine. Slicing 3D models were used to form a set of layers according to strategies, with a constant and variable step. The obtained results of the statistical analysis allow scientifically substantiated assessment of the efficiency of the joint solution of optimization tasks to determine the slicing parameters and rational orientation of the product in the workspace of an additive machine, depending on its complexity.
Research on Multi-Body Collision Dynamics of Ball Cage Flexible Drill Pipe Considering Borehole Curvature
Authors: Zhu Xiuxing , Xu Yingpeng , Mao Chenyang , Zhou Weixia , Xia Yuanbo , Ye Guigen , Zhou Bo
Published: March 2023

A ball cage flexible drill pipe is a new type of ultra-short-radius drilling tool, which consists of multiple flexible joints hinged together. During the drilling process, the flexible members will come into contact and wear, which reduces the efficiency of load transfer. The multi-body collision contact dynamics model was proposed to study the performance of the ball cage flexible drill pipe. The method considered the influence of the borehole curvature. The kinematic equations of the ball cage flexible drill pipe were established. The Lankarani–Nikravesh collisional contact model was used to characterize the normal contact force, and the Coulomb friction model was used to describe the tangential contact force. The multi-body motion state of the flexible drill pipe was simulated, the contact force distribution of the flexible drill pipe during the motion cycle was analyzed, and the influence of the borehole curvature radius on the size of the flexible joints and the contact force was studied. The results show that the running form of the ball cage flexible drill pipe shows a “folded” shape compared with the initial form; the contact force of different flexible joints is in a state of fluctuation; the normal contact force is much larger than the tangential contact force; the matching relationship between the borehole curvature and the length and radius of the flexible joints is derived, which provides criteria for the design of the flexible joints to ensure the reliability of the flexible drill pipe in large curvature borehole; the borehole curvature has an important influence on the collision contact force and load transfer efficiency of flexible drill pipe.
A New Code Based Signature Scheme for Blockchain Technology
Authors: Alahmadi Adel , Çalkavur Selda , Solé Patrick , Khan Abdul Nadim , Raza Mohd Arif , Aggarwal Vaneet
Published: March 2023

Blockchain is a method of recording information that makes it not feasible for the system to be replaced, attacked, or manipulated. A blockchain is equipped with a notebook that copies and processes the various procedures across the network of computers participating in the blockchain. Digital signature algorithm is one of the cryptographic protocols used by the blockchain. In this work, we introduce a new digital signature scheme based on error correcting codes. In the scheme constructed on a [n, k, d]− code over 𝔽q, which is d ≥ 2t + 1, and the size of the signature length is n − k. The signature verification is based on the bounded distance decoding of the code. Since the verification space is 𝔽qn, the proposed scheme has an improved performance in terms of working in a wider space.
A Stochastic Model of Personality Differences Based on PSI Theory
Authors: Hoy Molly , Fritsch Sarah , Bröcker Thomas , Kuhl Julius , Siekmann Ivo
Published: March 2023

Personality Systems Interactions (PSI) theory explains differences in personality based on the properties of four cognitive systems—object recognition (OR), intuitive behaviour (IB), intention memory (IM) and extension memory (EM). Each system is associated with characteristic modes of perception and behaviour, so personality is determined by which systems are primarily active. According to PSI theory, the activities of the cognitive systems are regulated by positive and negative affect (reward and punishment). Thus, differences in personality ultimately emerge from four parameters—the sensitivities of up- or downregulating positive and negative affect. The complex interactions of affect and cognitive systems have been represented in a mathematical model based on a system of differential equations. In this study, the environment of a person represented by the mathematical model is modelled by a time series of perturbations with positive and negative affect that are generated by a stochastic process. Comparing the average activities of the cognitive systems for different parameter sets exposed to the same time series of affect perturbations, we observe that different dominant cognitive systems emerge. This demonstrates that different sensitivities for positive and negative affect lead to different modes of cognition and, thus, to different personality types such as agreeable, conscientious, self-determined or independent. Varying the relative frequencies of negative and positive affect perturbations reveals that the average activities of all cognitive systems respond linearly. This observation enables us to predict that conscientious and independent personalities benefit from increased exposure to positive affect, whereas agreeable and self-determined personalities achieve a better balance of their cognitive systems by increased negative affect.
Rock Thin Section Image Identification Based on Convolutional Neural Networks of Adaptive and Second-Order Pooling Methods
Authors: Zhou Zilong , Yuan Hang , Cai Xin
Published: March 2023

In order to enhance the ability to represent rock feature information and finally improve the rock identification performance of convolution neural networks (CNN), a new pooling mode was proposed in this paper. According to whether the pooling object was the last convolution layer, it divided pooling layers into the sampling pooling layer and the classification pooling layer. The adaptive pooling method was used in the sampling pooling layer. The pooling kernels adaptively adjusted were designed for each feature map. The second-order pooling method was used by the classification pooling layer. The second-order feature information based on outer products was extracted from the feature pair. The changing process of the two methods in forward and back propagation was deduced. Then, they were embedded into CNN to build a rock thin section image identification model (ASOPCNN). The experiment was conducted on the image set containing 5998 rock thin section images of six rock types. The CNN models using max pooling, average pooling and stochastic pooling were set for comparison. In the results, the ASOPCNN has the highest identification accuracy of 89.08% on the test set. Its indexes are superior to the other three models in precision, recall, F1 score and AUC values. The results reveal that the adaptive and second-order pooling methods are more suitable for CNN model, and CNN based on them could be a reliable model for rock identification.
Canonical F-Planar Mappings of Spaces with Affine Connection onto m-Symmetric Spaces
Authors: Berezovski Volodymyr , Rýparová Lenka , Cherevko Yevhen
Published: March 2023

In this paper, we consider canonical F-planar mappings of spaces with affine connection onto m-symmetric spaces. We obtained the fundamental equations of these mappings in the form of a closed system of Chauchy-type equations in covariant derivatives. Furthermore, we established the number of essential parameters on which its general solution depends.
Stress–Strength Inference on the Multicomponent Model Based on Generalized Exponential Distributions under Type-I Hybrid Censoring
Authors: Tsai Tzong-Ru , Lio Yuhlong , Chiang Jyun-You , Chang Ya-Wen
Published: March 2023

The stress–strength analysis is investigated for a multicomponent system, where all strength variables of components follow a generalized exponential distribution and are subject to the generalized exponential distributed stress. The estimation methods of the maximum likelihood and Bayesian are utilized to infer the system reliability. For the Bayesian estimation method, informative and non-informative priors combined with three loss functions are considered. Because the computational difficulty on working posteriors, the Markov chain Monte Carlo method is adopted to obtain the approximation of the reliability estimator posterior. In addition, the bootstrap method and highest probability density interval are used to obtain the reliability confidence intervals. The simulation study shows that the Bayes estimator with informative prior is superior to other competitors. Finally, two real examples are given to illustrate the proposed estimation methods.
An Improved Fick’s Law Algorithm Based on Dynamic Lens-Imaging Learning Strategy for Planning a Hybrid Wind/Battery Energy System in Distribution Network
Authors: Alanazi Mohana , Alanazi Abdulaziz , Almadhor Ahmad , Rauf Hafiz Tayyab
Published: March 2023

In this paper, optimal and multi-objective planning of a hybrid energy system (HES) with wind turbine and battery storage (WT/Battery) has been proposed to drop power loss, smooth voltage profile, enhance customers reliability, as well as minimize the net present cost of the hybrid system plus the battery degradation cost (BDC). Decision variables include the installation site of the hybrid system and size of the wind farm and battery storage. These variables are found with the help of a novel metaheuristic approach called improved Fick’s law algorithm (IFLA). To enhance the exploration performance and avoid the early incomplete convergence of the conventional Fick’s law (FLA) algorithm, a dynamic lens-imaging learning strategy (DLILS) based on opposition learning has been adopted. The planning problem has been implemented in two approaches without and considering BDC to analyze its impact on the reserve power level and the amount and quality of power loss, voltage profile, and reliability. A 33-bus distribution system has also been employed to validate the capability and efficiency of the suggested method. Simulation results have shown that the multi-objective planning of the hybrid WT/Battery energy system improves voltage and reliability and decreases power loss by managing the reserve power based on charging and discharging battery units and creating electrical planning with optimal power injection into the network. The results of simulations and evaluation of statistic analysis indicate the superiority of the IFLA in achieving the optimal solution with faster convergence than conventional FLA, particle swarm optimization (PSO), manta ray foraging optimizer (MRFO), and bat algorithm (BA). It has been observed that the proposed methodology based on IFLA in different approaches has obtained lower power loss and more desirable voltage profile and reliability than its counterparts. Simulation reports demonstrate that by considering BDC, the values of losses and voltage deviations are increased by 2.82% and 1.34%, respectively, and the reliability of network customers is weakened by 5.59% in comparison with a case in which this cost is neglected. Therefore, taking into account this parameter in the objective function can lead to the correct and real calculation of the improvement rate of each of the objectives, especially the improvement of the reliability level, as well as making the correct decisions of network planners based on these findings.
A Paternal Fish Oil Diet Preconception Reduces Lung Inflammation in a Toxicant-Driven Murine Model of New Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia
Authors: Rumph Jelonia T. , Stephens Victoria R. , Ameli Sharareh , Brown LaKendria K. , Rayford Kayla J. , Nde Pius N. , Osteen Kevin G. , Bruner-Tran Kaylon L.
Published: March 2023

New bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a neonatal disease that is theorized to begin in utero and manifests as reduced alveolarization due to inflammation of the lung. Risk factors for new BPD in human infants include intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), premature birth (PTB) and formula feeding. Using a mouse model, our group recently reported that a paternal history of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) exposure increased his offspring’s risk of IUGR, PTB, and new BPD. Additionally, formula supplementation of these neonates worsened the severity of pulmonary disease. In a separate study, we reported that a paternal preconception fish oil diet prevented TCDD-driven IUGR and PTB. Not surprisingly, eliminating these two major risk factors for new BPD also significantly reduced development of neonatal lung disease. However, this prior study did not examine the potential mechanism for fish oil’s protective effect. Herein, we sought to determine whether a paternal preconception fish oil diet attenuated toxicant-associated lung inflammation, which is an important contributor to the pathogenesis of new BPD. Compared to offspring of standard diet TCDD-exposed males, offspring of TCDD-exposed males provided a fish oil diet prior to conception exhibited a significant reduction in pulmonary expression of multiple pro-inflammatory mediators (Tlr4, Cxcr2, Il-1 alpha). Additionally, neonatal lungs of pups born to fish oil treated fathers exhibited minimal hemorrhaging or edema. Currently, prevention of BPD is largely focused on maternal strategies to improve health (e.g., smoking cessation) or reduce risk of PTB (e.g., progesterone supplementation). Our studies in mice support a role for also targeting paternal factors to improve pregnancy outcomes and child health.
Screening and Bioinformatics Analyses of Key miRNAs Associated with Toll-like Receptor Activation in Gastric Cancer Cells
Authors: Huang Xiong , Ma Zhen , Qin Wei
Published: March 2023

Background and Objectives: To screen key miRNAs and their target genes related to Toll-like receptor (TLR) activation in gastric cancer (GC) cells and analyze them bioinformatically. Materials and Methods: Venn diagrams were obtained to screen miRNAs that were upregulated/downregulated in both GSE54129 and GSE164174. The miRTarBase database was used to predict the target genes of upregulated miRNAs. The differentially expressed genes in the regulatory network were analyzed. miR-16-5p expression in different tissue samples and the variations in the methylation states of four hub genes were measured. Results: We found that GSE54129 included 21 normal gastric tissues and 111 gastric cancer tissues, GSE164174 included 1417 normal gastric tissues and 1423 gastric cancer tissues. Venn diagram analysis results showed that compared with the control group, a total of 68 DEmiRNAs were upregulated in the GSE54129 and GSE164174 datasets, and no common downregulated DEmiRNAs were found. On further analysis of the GSE108345 dataset, we obtained the competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network associated with the activation of TLRs, and listed the top 10 lncRNA–miRNA–mRNA networks, including 10 miRNAs, 86 mRNA and 134 lncRNAs. Cytological HuBBA scores yielded a total of 1 miRNA, 16 mRNAs and 45 lncRNAs, of which miR-16-5p scored the highest as it was considered a key miRNA for TLR activation in GC cells, which are important in response against microorganisms. The results of Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis showed that endocytosis, microRNAs in cancer and the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway are related to TLR signaling. The results of in vivo experiments indicated that miR-16-5p was highly expressed in gastric cancer cells and tissues. Conclusions: Hsa-miR-16-5p’s target genes mainly play a role by regulating the expression of four genes—MCL1, AP2B1, LAMB1, and RAB11FIP2. The findings provide a scientific basis for the development of immunotherapy for GC.
Hearing Status and Ventilation Tube at Time of Palatoplasty in Cleft Lip and Palate Patients: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Frisina Antonio , Piacentile Katherine , Frosolini Andrea , Saetti Roberto , Baciliero Ugo , Lovato Andrea
Published: March 2023

Background and Objectives: There is no consensus regarding the indications for and timing of ventilation tube (VT) insertion in cleft lip and palate (CLP) patients. Our aim was to search for clinical and surgical (i.e., VT insertion) characteristics that influence the hearing status in CLP. Materials and Methods: We reviewed the hearing outcome of consecutive CLP cases operated on at a single referral center. Univariate and multivariate analysis were applied as appropriate. Results: We included 285 consecutive CLP patients, 109 female and 176 male; the mean age at last follow-up was 16.2 years. Unilateral CLP was found in 249 cases and bilateral CLP in 36. Early VTs (i.e., at the time of hard palate surgery) were applied in 75 (26.3%) patients. Late VTs (i.e., after hard palate surgery during follow-up) were applied in 69 (24.2%) children, at a mean age of 6.7 years old. Hearing loss (pure-tone average > 20 dB) was found in 114 (40%) CLP patients at last available follow-up (mild hearing loss in 96 patients, moderate in 18). In univariate and multivariate analyses, we found that only the absence of early VT insertion (p = 0.0003; OR = 18.2) was an independent prognostic factor of hearing loss in CLP patients. Furthermore, when early VTs were not inserted, there was a high risk of late VT (p = 0.002; OR 13.6). Conclusions: According to our results, the absence of VT insertion at the time of hard palate surgery is an independent prognostic risk factor of hearing loss in CLP patients. Early VT placement in CLP patients may prevent hearing loss and related consequences. These findings should be tested in a large, randomized clinical trial.
Editorial for the Special Issue on Flexible Micromanipulators and Micromanipulation
Authors: Cammarata Alessandro
Published: March 2023

The field of micromanipulation is rapidly growing and evolving thanks to advancements in microfabrication technologies and the increased demand for precise and accurate manipulation of microscale objects [...]
Recent Advances in Nanomaterials Used for Wearable Electronics
Authors: Yang Minye , Ye Zhilu , Ren Yichong , Farhat Mohamed , Chen Pai-Yen
Published: March 2023

In recent decades, thriving Internet of Things (IoT) technology has had a profound impact on people’s lifestyles through extensive information interaction between humans and intelligent devices. One promising application of IoT is the continuous, real-time monitoring and analysis of body or environmental information by devices worn on or implanted inside the body. This research area, commonly referred to as wearable electronics or wearables, represents a new and rapidly expanding interdisciplinary field. Wearable electronics are devices with specific electronic functions that must be flexible and stretchable. Various novel materials have been proposed in recent years to meet the technical challenges posed by this field, which exhibit significant potential for use in different wearable applications. This article reviews recent progress in the development of emerging nanomaterial-based wearable electronics, with a specific focus on their flexible substrates, conductors, and transducers. Additionally, we discuss the current state-of-the-art applications of nanomaterial-based wearable electronics and provide an outlook on future research directions in this field.
Serum-Derived Bovine Immunoglobulin Stimulates SCFA Production by Specific Microbes in the Ex Vivo SIFR® Technology
Authors: Van den Abbeele Pieter , Detzel Christopher , Rose Alexis , Deyaert Stef , Baudot Aurélien , Warner Christopher
Published: March 2023

Serum-derived bovine immunoglobulins (SBI) exert health benefits mediated by their ability to bind microbial components, thereby preventing translocation and subsequent inflammation. While in vivo studies have shown that a fraction of SBI also reaches the colon, little is known about the impact of SBI on the dense colonic microbiota that has great potential to impact human health. This study, therefore, investigated the impact of three bovine plasma protein fractions (SBI, bovine plasma (BP) and albumin-enriched bovine plasma (ABP)) on the gut microbiota of six human adults using the novel ex vivo SIFR® technology, recently demonstrated to generate predictive findings for clinical studies. When dosed at an equivalent of 5 g/day, all protein fractions significantly increased health-related metabolites—acetate, propionate, and butyrate. Upon simulating small intestinal absorption, SBI still markedly increased acetate and propionate, demonstrating that SBI is more resistant to small intestinal digestion and absorption compared to the other protein sources. Despite noticeable interindividual differences in microbiota composition among human adults, SBI consistently stimulated a narrow spectrum of gut microbes, which largely differed from the ones that are typically involved in carbohydrate fermentation. The SBI-fermenting consortium included B. vulgatus and L. edouardi (correlating with acetate and propionate) along with Dorea longicatena, Coprococcus comes and the butyrate-producing bacterium SS3/4 (correlating with butyrate). Overall, this study revealed that protein bovine fractions can contribute to health benefits by specifically modulating the human gut microbiota. While health benefits could follow from the production of SCFA, a broader range of protein-derived metabolites could also be produced. This study also confirms that the concept of prebiotics (substrates selectively utilized by host microorganisms conferring a health benefit) could go beyond the use of ingestible carbohydrates and extend to partially indigestible proteins.
Microbial Populations in Ruminal Liquid Samples from Young Beefmaster Bulls at Both Extremes of RFI Values
Authors: Manzanares-Miranda Nelson , Garcia-Mazcorro Jose F. , Pérez-Medina Eduardo B. , Vaquera-Vázquez Anakaren , Martínez-Ruiz Alejandro , Ramos-Zayas Yareellys , Kawas Jorge R.
Published: March 2023

The gut microbiota is involved in the productivity of beef cattle, but the impact of different analysis strategies on microbial composition is unclear. Ruminal samples were obtained from Beefmaster calves (n = 10) at both extremes of residual feed intake (RFI) values (5 with the lowest and 5 with the highest RFI) from two consecutive days. Samples were processed using two different DNA extraction methods. The V3 and V4 regions of the 16S rRNA gene were amplified using PCR and sequenced with a MiSeq instrument (Illumina). We analyzed 1.6 million 16S sequences from all 40 samples (10 calves, 2 time points, and 2 extraction methods). The abundance of most microbes was significantly different between DNA extraction methods but not between high-efficiency (LRFI) and low-efficiency (HRFI) animals. Exceptions include the genus Succiniclasticum (lower in LRFI, p = 0.0011), and others. Diversity measures and functional predictions were also mostly affected by DNA extraction methods, but some pathways showed significant differences between RFI levels (e.g., methylglyoxal degradation, higher in LRFI, p = 0.006). The results suggest that the abundance of some ruminal microbes is associated with feed efficiency and serves as a cautionary tale for the interpretation of results obtained with a single DNA extraction method.
Association of Dengue Virus Serotypes 1&2 with Severe Dengue Having Deletions in Their 3′Untranslated Regions (3′UTRs)
Authors: Maisnam Deepti , Billoria Arcy , Prasad V. S. V , Venkataramana Musturi
Published: March 2023

Dengue virus infections are recorded as hyper-endemic in many countries, including India. Research pertaining to the reasons for frequent outbreaks and severe dengue is ongoing. Hyderabad city, India, has been recorded as a ‘hotspot’ for dengue virus infections. Dengue virus strains circulating over the past few years in Hyderabad city have been characterized at the molecular level to analyze the serotype/genotypes; 3′UTRs were further amplified and sequenced. The disease severity in patients infected with dengue virus strains with complete and 3′UTR deletion mutants was analyzed. Genotype I of the serotype 1 replaced genotype III, which has been circulating over the past few years in this region. Coincidentally, the number of dengue virus infections significantly increased in this region during the study period. Nucleotide sequence analysis suggested twenty-two and eight nucleotide deletions in the 3′UTR of DENV-1. The eight nucleotide deletions observed in the case of DENV-1 3′UTR were the first reported in this instance. A 50 nucleotide deletion was identified in the case of the serotype DENV-2. Importantly, these deletion mutants were found to cause severe dengue, even though they were found to be replication incompetent. This study emphasized the role of dengue virus 3′UTRs on severe dengue and emerging outbreaks.
Characterization of a Lytic Bacteriophage and Demonstration of Its Combined Lytic Effect with a K2 Depolymerase on the Hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae Strain 52145
Authors: Pertics Botond Zsombor , Kovács Tamás , Schneider György
Published: March 2023

Klebsiella pneumoniae is a nosocomial pathogen. Among its virulence factors is the capsule with a prominent role in defense and biofilm formation. Bacteriophages (phages) can evoke the lysis of bacterial cells. Due to the mode of action of their polysaccharide depolymerase enzymes, phages are typically specific for one bacterial strain and its capsule type. In this study, we characterized a bacteriophage against the capsule-defective mutant of the nosocomial K. pneumoniae 52145 strain, which lacks K2 capsule. The phage showed a relatively narrow host range but evoked lysis on a few strains with capsular serotypes K33, K21, and K24. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the newly isolated Klebsiella phage 731 belongs to the Webervirus genus in the Drexlerviridae family; it has a 31.084 MDa double-stranded, linear DNA with a length of 50,306 base pairs and a G + C content of 50.9%. Out of the 79 open reading frames (ORFs), we performed the identification of orf22, coding for a trimeric tail fiber protein with putative capsule depolymerase activity, along with the mapping of other putative depolymerases of phage 731 and homologous phages. Efficacy of a previously described recombinant K2 depolymerase (B1dep) was tested by co-spotting phage 731 on K. pneumoniae strains, and it was demonstrated that the B1dep-phage 731 combination allows the lysis of the wild type 52145 strain, originally resistant to the phage 731. With phage 731, we showed that B1dep is a promising candidate for use as a possible antimicrobial agent, as it renders the virulent strain defenseless against other phages. Phage 731 alone is also important due to its efficacy on K. pneumoniae strains possessing epidemiologically important serotypes.
Characterization of Large Microplastic Debris in Beach Sediments in the Po Delta Area
Authors: Cozzarini Luca , Buoninsegni Joana , Corbau Corinne , Lughi Vanni
Published: March 2023

The use of single-use or disposable plastic objects has massively increased during the last few decades, and plastic has become the main type of litter found in marine environments. The Adriatic Sea is seriously prone to marine litter pollution, and it collects about one-third of all the freshwater flowing into the Mediterranean, mainly via the river Po. This study investigated the type and composition of large microplastic debris collected in different sites in the Po Delta area. Visual classification was performed by relevant criteria, while chemical composition was assessed by infrared spectroscopy. The main plastic fraction is composed of polyolefin (76%), followed by polystyrene (19%). This proportion roughly matches global plastic production, rescaled after excluding plastics with negative buoyancy: all the identified compounds have a specific gravity lower than that of the seawater. Fragments (irregularly shaped debris) represent the most abundant category fraction (85%), followed by pellets, which represent roughly 10% of the total. Overall, the results provided an insight into large microplastic pollution in beach sediments in the Po delta area.
Promotion of DNA Adsorption onto Microplastics by Transition Metal Ions
Authors: Wu Lyuyuan , Patel Kshiti , Zandieh Mohamad , Liu Juewen
Published: March 2023

Microplastics can adsorb and spread a variety of pollutants in the ecosystem posing a threat to human health. One of the common pollution sources of environmental waters is metal ions, which not only adsorb on microplastics but can also promote the adsorption of other invasive species such as environmental DNA. Recently, we showed that environmentally abundant metal ions (Na+, Mg2+ and Ca2+) can promote the adsorption of single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) onto microplastics. Herein, we investigated the effect of transition metal ions including Zn2+ and Mn2+ and compared them with Mg2+ for promoting DNA adsorption. To better mimic environmental DNA, we also used a salmon sperm double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) (~2000 bp). For both ssDNA and dsDNA, the transition metals induced a higher adsorption capacity compared to Mg2+, and that correlated with the higher binding affinity of transition metals to DNA. Although metal-mediated interactions were vital for ssDNA adsorption, the dsDNA adsorbed on the microplastics even in the absence of metal ions, likely due to the abundance of binding sites of the 100-times longer dsDNA. Finally, desorption studies revealed that hydrophobic interactions were responsible for dsDNA adsorption in the absence of metal ions.
Effect of Short-Chain Fatty Acids and Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids on Metabolites in H460 Lung Cancer Cells
Authors: Zhou Tianxiao , Yang Kaige , Huang Jin , Fu Wenchang , Yan Chao , Wang Yan
Published: March 2023

Lung cancer is the most common primary malignant lung tumor. However, the etiology of lung cancer is still unclear. Fatty acids include short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) as essential components of lipids. SCFAs can enter the nucleus of cancer cells, inhibit histone deacetylase activity, and upregulate histone acetylation and crotonylation. Meanwhile, PUFAs can inhibit lung cancer cells. Moreover, they also play an essential role in inhibiting migration and invasion. However, the mechanisms and different effects of SCFAs and PUFAs on lung cancer remain unclear. Sodium acetate, butyrate, linoleic acid, and linolenic acid were selected to treat H460 lung cancer cells. Through untargeted metabonomics, it was observed that the differential metabolites were concentrated in energy metabolites, phospholipids, and bile acids. Then, targeted metabonomics was conducted for these three target types. Three LC-MS/MS methods were established for 71 compounds, including energy metabolites, phospholipids, and bile acids. The subsequent methodology validation results were used to verify the validity of the method. The targeted metabonomics results show that, in H460 lung cancer cells incubated with linolenic acid and linoleic acid, while the content of PCs increased significantly, the content of Lyso PCs decreased significantly. This demonstrates that there are significant changes in LCAT content before and after administration. Through subsequent WB and RT-PCR experiments, the result was verified. We demonstrated a substantial metabolic disparity between the dosing and control groups, further verifying the reliability of the method.
Identification of Marker Compounds and In Vitro Toxicity Evaluation of Two Portuguese Asphodelus Leaf Extracts
Authors: Malmir Maryam , Lima Katelene , Póvoas Camões Sérgio , Manageiro Vera , Duarte Maria Paula , Paiva Miranda Joana , Serrano Rita , Moreira da Silva Isabel , Silva Lima Beatriz , Caniça Manuela , Silva Olga
Published: March 2023

The leaves of Asphodelus bento-rainhae subsp. bento-rainhae, an endemic Portuguese species, and Asphodelus macrocarpus subsp. macrocarpus have been used as food, and traditionally as medicine, for treating ulcers, urinary tract, and inflammatory disorders. The present study aims to establish the phytochemical profile of the main secondary metabolites, together with the antimicrobial, antioxidant and toxicity assessments of both Asphodelus leaf 70% ethanol extracts. Phytochemical screenings were conducted by the TLC and LC-UV/DAD-ESI/MS chromatographic technique, and quantification of the leading chemical classes was performed by spectrophotometric methods. Liquid-liquid partitions of crude extracts were obtained using ethyl ether, ethyl acetate, and water. For in vitro evaluations of antimicrobial activity, the broth microdilution method, and for the antioxidant activity, the FRAP and DPPH methods were used. Genotoxicity and cytotoxicity were assessed by Ames and MTT tests, respectively. Twelve known compounds including neochlorogenic acid, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, isoorientin, p-coumaric acid, isovitexin, ferulic acid, luteolin, aloe-emodin, diosmetin, chrysophanol, and β-sitosterol were identified as the main marker compounds, and terpenoids and condensed tannins were found to be the major class of secondary metabolites of both medicinal plants. The ethyl ether fractions demonstrated the highest antibacterial activity against all the Gram-positive microorganisms, (MIC value of 62 to 1000 µg/mL), with aloe-emodin as one of the main marker compounds highly active against Staphylococcus epidermidis (MIC value of 0.8 to 1.6 µg/mL). Ethyl acetate fractions exhibited the highest antioxidant activity (IC50 of 800 to 1200 µg/mL, respectively). No cytotoxicity (up to 1000 µg/mL) or genotoxicity/mutagenicity (up to 5 mg/plate, with/without metabolic activation) were detected. The obtained results contribute to the knowledge of the value and safety of the studied species as herbal medicines.
Bioactive Molecules Derived from Plants in Managing Dengue Vector Aedes aegypti (Linn.)
Authors: Priya Sridhar Shanmuga , Vasantha-Srinivasan Prabhakaran , Altemimi Ammar B. , Keerthana Ramji , Radhakrishnan Narayanaswamy , Senthil-Nathan Sengottayan , Kalaivani Kandasamy , Chandrasekar Nainarpandian , Karthi Sengodan , Ganesan Raja , Alkanan Zina T. , Pal Tarun , Verma Om Prakash , Proćków Jarosław
Published: March 2023

Mosquitoes are the potential vectors of several viral diseases such as filariasis, malaria, dengue, yellow fever, Zika fever and encephalitis in humans as well as other species. Dengue, the most common mosquito-borne disease in humans caused by the dengue virus is transmitted by the vector Ae. aegypti. Fever, chills, nausea and neurological disorders are the frequent symptoms of Zika and dengue. Thanks to various anthropogenic activities such as deforestation, industrialized farming and poor drainage facilities there has been a significant rise in mosquitoes and vector-borne diseases. Control measures such as the destruction of mosquito breeding places, a reduction in global warming, as well as the use of natural and chemical repellents, mainly DEET, picaridin, temephos and IR-3535 have proven to be effective in many instances. Although potent, these chemicals cause swelling, rashes, and eye irritation in adults and children, and are also toxic to the skin and nervous system. Due to their shorter protection period and harmful nature towards non-target organisms, the use of chemical repellents is greatly reduced, and more research and development is taking place in the field of plant-derived repellents, which are found to be selective, biodegradable and harmless to non-target species. Many tribal and rural communities across the world have been using plant-based extracts since ancient times for various traditional and medical purposes, and to ward off mosquitoes and various other insects. In this regard, new species of plants are being identified through ethnobotanical surveys and tested for their repellency against Ae. aegypti. This review aims to provide insight into many such plant extracts, essential oils and their metabolites, which have been tested for their mosquitocidal activity against different life cycle forms of Ae. Aegypti, as well as for their efficacy in controlling mosquitoes.
Novel Xanomeline-Containing Bitopic Ligands of Muscarinic Acetylcholine Receptors: Design, Synthesis and FRET Investigation
Authors: Matera Carlo , Kauk Michael , Cirillo Davide , Maspero Marco , Papotto Claudio , Volpato Daniela , Holzgrabe Ulrike , De Amici Marco , Hoffmann Carsten , Dallanoce Clelia
Published: March 2023

In the last few years, fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) receptor sensors have contributed to the understanding of GPCR ligand binding and functional activation. FRET sensors based on muscarinic acetylcholine receptors (mAChRs) have been employed to study dual-steric ligands, allowing for the detection of different kinetics and distinguishing between partial, full, and super agonism. Herein, we report the synthesis of the two series of bitopic ligands, 12-Cn and 13-Cn, and their pharmacological investigation at the M1, M2, M4, and M5 FRET-based receptor sensors. The hybrids were prepared by merging the pharmacophoric moieties of the M1/M4-preferring orthosteric agonist Xanomeline 10 and the M1-selective positive allosteric modulator 77-LH-28-1 (1-[3-(4-butyl-1-piperidinyl)propyl]-3,4-dihydro-2(1H)-quinolinone) 11. The two pharmacophores were connected through alkylene chains of different lengths (C3, C5, C7, and C9). Analyzing the FRET responses, the tertiary amine compounds 12-C5, 12-C7, and 12-C9 evidenced a selective activation of M1 mAChRs, while the methyl tetrahydropyridinium salts 13-C5, 13-C7, and 13-C9 showed a degree of selectivity for M1 and M4 mAChRs. Moreover, whereas hybrids 12-Cn showed an almost linear response at the M1 subtype, hybrids 13-Cn evidenced a bell-shaped activation response. This different activation pattern suggests that the positive charge anchoring the compound 13-Cn to the orthosteric site ensues a degree of receptor activation depending on the linker length, which induces a graded conformational interference with the binding pocket closure. These bitopic derivatives represent novel pharmacological tools for a better understanding of ligand-receptor interactions at a molecular level.
Pre-Therapeutic Sarcopenia among Cancer Patients: An Up-to-Date Meta-Analysis of Prevalence and Predictive Value during Cancer Treatment
Authors: Couderc Anne-Laure , Liuu Evelyne , Boudou-Rouquette Pascaline , Poisson Johanne , Frelaut Maxime , Montégut Coline , Mebarki Soraya , Geiss Romain , ap Thomas Zoé , Noret Aurélien , Pierro Monica , Baldini Capucine , Paillaud Elena , Pamoukdjian Frédéric
Published: March 2023

This study will address the prevalence of pre-therapeutic sarcopenia (PS) and its clinical impact during cancer treatment among adult cancer patients ≥ 18 years of age. A meta-analysis (MA) with random-effect models was performed via a MEDLINE systematic review, according to the PRISMA statement, focusing on articles published before February 2022 that reported observational studies and clinical trials on the prevalence of PS and the following outcomes: overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), post-operative complications (POC), toxicities (TOX), and nosocomial infections (NI). A total of 65,936 patients (mean age: 45.7–85 y) with various cancer sites and extensions and various treatment modes were included. Mainly defined by CT scan-based loss of muscle mass only, the pooled prevalence of PS was 38.0%. The pooled relative risks were 1.97, 1.76, 2.70, 1.47, and 1.76 for OS, PFS, POC, TOX, and NI, respectively (moderate-to-high heterogeneity, I2: 58–85%). Consensus-based algorithm definitions of sarcopenia, integrating low muscle mass and low levels of muscular strength and/or physical performance, lowered the prevalence (22%) and heterogeneity (I2 < 50%). They also increased the predictive values with RRs ranging from 2.31 (OS) to 3.52 (POC). PS among cancer patients is prevalent and strongly associated with poor outcomes during cancer treatment, especially when considering a consensus-based algorithm approach.