bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Opportunities and Challenges of Indigenous Food Plant Farmers in Integrating into Agri-Food Value Chains in Cape Town
Authors: Zhang Mengyi , Dannenberg Peter
Published: December 2022

In many regions of the Global South, introduced crops have led to a loss of biodiversity and left the food system vulnerable to climate change. As a result, the (re-)introduction of indigenous food plants (IFPs) into agriculture is discussed as a way to a more sustainable and resilient food production, which might also be feasible for Southern small-scale garden farmers. In Cape Town (South Africa), the first attempts to commercialize IFPs of the Cape Floristic Region are currently being made. By using a value chain perspective, this study analyzes the opportunities and challenges for farmers to integrate IFPs into regional commercial agri-food chains. Based on qualitative interviews and ethnographic participant observation, we identify and explain different challenges and potentials: Challenges include the complex harvest licensing procedure and limited seed/cutting access for growers, limited capabilities and capacity of growers, the competition with subsidized conventional production and limited distribution options, as well as a negative cultural perception of IFPs and a lack of preparation knowledge at the consumption level. Further, we identified opportunities for environmental adaptation and income generation. Remarkably, our results indicated a, so far, barely discussed geographical component in the success of indigenous crops. The findings are useful for guiding relevant market development interventions and raising awareness of IFPs in Cape Town and beyond.
Reinforcement Learning-Based Routing Protocols in Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks for Intelligent Transport System (ITS): A Survey
Authors: Lansky Jan , Rahmani Amir Masoud , Hosseinzadeh Mehdi
Published: December 2022

Today, the use of safety solutions in Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) is a serious challenge because of novel progress in wireless technologies and the high number of road accidents. Vehicular ad hoc network (VANET) is a momentous element in this system because they can improve safety and efficiency in ITS. In this network, vehicles act as moving nodes and work with other nodes within their communication range. Due to high-dynamic vehicles and their different speeds in this network, links between vehicles are valid for a short time interval. Therefore, routing is a challenging work in these networks. Recently, reinforcement learning (RL) plays a significant role in developing routing algorithms for VANET. In this paper, we review reinforcement learning and its characteristics and study how to use this technique for creating routing protocols in VANETs. We propose a categorization of RL-based routing schemes in these networks. This paper helps researchers to understand how to design RL-based routing algorithms in VANET and improve the existing methods by understanding the challenges and opportunities in this area.
Finite Element Analysis of Generalized Thermoelastic Interaction for Semiconductor Materials under Varying Thermal Conductivity
Authors: Hobiny Aatef , Abbas Ibrahim
Published: December 2022

In this work, we consider the problem of a semiconductor half-space formed of varying thermal conductivity materials with and without Kirchhoff’s transforms. Specifically, we deal with one thermal relaxation time within the context of generalized photothermoelastic theory. It is expected that the thermal conductivity of the material will vary with temperature. The finite element method is used to numerically solve this problem. The Laplace transform and the eigenvalues method are used to determine analytical solutions to the linear problem. Various hypotheses are investigated, both with and without the use of Kirchhoff’s transformations, to consider the influence of thermal conductivity change. To verify the accuracy of the proposed approach, we provide a comparison of numerical and analytical results by ignoring the new parameters and investigating the behaviors of physical quantities for numerical outcomes.
Predicting Fraud in Financial Payment Services through Optimized Hyper-Parameter-Tuned XGBoost Model
Authors: Dalal Surjeet , Seth Bijeta , Radulescu Magdalena , Secara Carmen , Tolea Claudia
Published: December 2022

Online transactions, medical services, financial transactions, and banking all have their share of fraudulent activity. The annual revenue generated by fraud exceeds $1 trillion. Even while fraud is dangerous for organizations, it may be uncovered with the help of intelligent solutions such as rules engines and machine learning. In this research, we introduce a unique hybrid technique for identifying financial payment fraud by combining nature-inspired-based Hyperparameter tuning with several supervised classifier models, as implemented in a modified version of the XGBoost Algorithm. At the outset, we split out a sample of the full financial payment dataset to use as a test set. We use 70% of the data for training and 30% for testing. Records that are known to be illegitimate or fraudulent are predicted, while those that raise suspicion are further investigated using a number of machine learning algorithms. The models are trained and validated using the 10-fold cross-validation technique. Several tests using a dataset of actual financial transactions are used to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
A Malware Attack Enabled an Online Energy Strategy for Dynamic Wireless EVs within Transportation Systems
Authors: Alsokhiry Fahad , Annuk Andres , Kabanen Toivo , Mohamed Mohamed A.
Published: December 2022

Developing transportation systems (TSs) under the structure of a wireless sensor network (WSN) along with great preponderance can be an Achilles’ heel from the standpoint of cyber-attacks, which is worthy of attention. Hence, a crucial security concern facing WSNs embedded in electrical vehicles (EVs) is malware attacks. With this in mind, this paper addressed a cyber-detection method based on the offense–defense game model to ward off malware attacks on smart EVs developed by a wireless sensor for receiving data in order to control the traffic flow within TSs. This method is inspired by the integrated Nash equilibrium result in the game and can detect the probability of launching malware into the WSN-based EV technology. For effective realization, modeling the malware attacks in conformity with EVs was discussed. This type of attack can inflict untraceable detriments on TSs by moving EVs out of their optimal paths for which the EVs’ power consumption tends toward ascending thanks to the increasing traffic flow density. In view of this, the present paper proposed an effective traffic-flow density-based dynamic model for EVs within transportation systems. Additionally, on account of the uncertain power consumption of EVs, an uncertainty-based UT function was presented to model its effects on the traffic flow. It was inferred from the results that there is a relationship between the power consumption and traffic flow for the existence of malware attacks. Additionally, the results revealed the importance of repressing malware attacks on TSs.
High-Dimensional Regression Adjustment Estimation for Average Treatment Effect with Highly Correlated Covariates
Authors: Diao Zeyu , Yue Lili , Zhao Fanrong , Li Gaorong
Published: December 2022

Regression adjustment is often used to estimate average treatment effect (ATE) in randomized experiments. Recently, some penalty-based regression adjustment methods have been proposed to handle the high-dimensional problem. However, these existing high-dimensional regression adjustment methods may fail to achieve satisfactory performance when the covariates are highly correlated. In this paper, we propose a novel adjustment estimation method for ATE by combining the semi-standard partial covariance (SPAC) and regression adjustment methods. Under some regularity conditions, the asymptotic normality of our proposed SPAC adjustment ATE estimator is shown. Some simulation studies and an analysis of HER2 breast cancer data are carried out to illustrate the advantage of our proposed SPAC adjustment method in addressing the highly correlated problem of the Rubin causal model.
Optimal Design of Water Distribution Systems Considering Topological Characteristics and Residual Chlorine Concentration
Authors: Ko Mun Jin , Choi Young Hwan
Published: December 2022

Water distribution systems (WDSs) are designed for supplying safe water under abnormal conditions. Therefore, the optimal design of WDSs should present a plan that satisfies the hydraulic constraint, pressure at the node, and flow rate of the pipe. The water quality constraint, that is, the residual chlorine standard, should be also satisfied. However, there is a problem of insufficient pressure or absence of water for the rapid increase in demand and abnormal situations caused by the destruction of pipes resulting from growing urbanization. This problem differs in node pressure and residence time, depending on the type of WDSs (i.e., loop, hybrid, and branch). Therefore, in this study, the optimal design of WDSs was determined by considering the form of the WDS and the residual chlorine concentration. To construct the layout of WDSs, the type was constructed and classified using the branch index, classification index, and hydraulic water-quality characteristics, which were analyzed accordingly. In addition, the objectives of the WDSs in terms of hydraulic (i.e., nodal pressure) and water-quality (i.e., reference values of residual chlorine concentrations) constraints were established to derive optimal designs that simultaneously stabilize and satisfy water. To stably supply water to the customer even in abnormal situations, an optimal multipurpose design was carried out by setting the sum of the surplus head and design cost as an objective function. These analyses can improve the water quality by simultaneously considering the residual chlorine concentration. They improved the hydraulic characteristics by considering only pressure in the existing design stage. In addition, by deriving an optimal design plan in terms of hydraulic quality according to topological features, we can derive an optimal design that assists the designer in decision making while improving the economic aspect and usability for the consumer.
Isolation of Thermophilic Bacteria and Investigation of Their Microplastic Degradation Ability Using Polyethylene Polymers
Authors: Özdemir Sadin , Akarsu Ceyhun , Acer Ömer , Fouillaud Mireille , Dufossé Laurent , Dizge Nadir
Published: December 2022

Microplastics (MPs) pose potential public health challenges because of their widespread occurrences in all environmental compartments. While most studies have focused on the occurrence fate of microplastics in wastewater treatment systems, the biodegradation of microplastics in wastewater is generally little understood. Therefore, we used two Gram-positive and thermophilic bacteria, called strain ST3 and ST6, which were identified by morphological, biochemical, physiological, and molecular analyses, to assess the growth and biodegradation potential of two different sized (50 and 150 m) polyethylene particles. The degradation was monitored based on structural and surface morphological changes. According to 16S rRNA analyses, ST3 and ST6 were identified as Anoxybacillus flavithermus ST3 and Anoxybacillus sp. ST6, respectively. The occurrence of cracks, holes, and dimensional changes was detected by scanning electron microscopy. Moreover, critical characteristic absorption band formation and modifications were determined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. In addition to these, it was found that Anoxybacillus flavithermus ST3 and Anoxybacillus sp. ST6 produced high level of alpha-Amylase. These results showed that thermophilic bacteria are capable of the biodegradation of microplastics and production of alpha-Amylase.
Mastadenovirus Molecular Diversity in Waste and Environmental Waters from the Lisbon Metropolitan Area
Authors: Cavadas Joana , Parreira Ricardo , Leonardo Inês , Barreto Crespo Maria Teresa , Nunes Mónica
Published: December 2022

In face of the absence of epidemiological data regarding the circulation of human adenoviruses (HAdV) in Portugal, this study aimed at the evaluation of their molecular diversity in waste and environmental waters in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area (LMA). Using samples collected between 2018 and 2021, the HAdV hexon protein-coding sequence was partially amplified using three nested touch-down PCR protocols. The amplification products obtained were analyzed in parallel by two approaches: molecular cloning followed by Sanger sequencing and Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) using Illumina® sequencing. The analysis of NGS-generated data allowed the identification of a higher diversity of HAdV-A (19%), -B (1%), -C (3%), -D (24%), and -F (25%) viral types, along with murine adenovirus (MAdV-2; 30%) in the wastewater treatment plant samples. On the other hand, HAdV-A (19%), -D (32%), and -F (36%) were identified in environmental samples, and possibly MAdV-2 (14%). These results demonstrate the presence of fecal contamination in environmental waters and the assessment of the diversity of this virus provides important information regarding the distribution of HAdV in LMA, including the detection of HAdV-F41, the most frequently reported in water worldwide.
Molecular Epidemiology of Escherichia coli with Resistance against Third-Generation Cephalosporines Isolated from Deployed German Soldiers—A Retrospective Assessment after Deployments to the African Sahel Region and Other Sites between 2007 and 2016
Authors: Pankok Frederik , Fuchs Frieder , Loderstädt Ulrike , Kaase Martin , Balczun Carsten , Scheithauer Simone , Frickmann Hagen , Hagen Ralf Matthias
Published: December 2022

Colonization and infection with bacteria with acquired antibiotic resistance are among the risks for soldiers on international deployments. Enterobacterales with resistance against third-generation cephalosporines are amongst the most frequently imported microorganisms. To contribute to the scarcely available epidemiological knowledge on deployment-associated resistance migration, we assessed the molecular epidemiology of third-generation cephalosporine-resistant Escherichia coli isolated between 2007 and 2016 from German soldiers after deployments, with a particular focus on the African Sahel region. A total of 51 third-generation cephalosporine-resistant E. coli isolated from 51 military returnees from deployment collected during the assessment period between 2007 and 2016 were subjected to short-read next-generation sequencing analysis. Returnees from the Sahel region (Djibouti, Mali, South Sudan, Sudan, Sudan, and Uganda) comprised a proportion of 52.9% (27/51). Repeatedly isolated sequence types according to the Warwick University scheme from returnees from the Sahel region were ST38, ST131, and ST648, confirming previous epidemiological assessments from various sub-Saharan African regions. Locally prevalent resistance genes in isolates from returnees from the Sahel region associated with third-generation resistance were blaCTX-M-15, blaCTX-M-27, blaCTX-M-1, blaTEM-169, blaCTX-M-14, blaCTX-M-99-like, blaCTX-M-125, blaSHV-12, and blaDHA-1, while virulence genes were east1, sat, and tsh in declining order of frequency of occurrence each. In line with phenotypically observed high resistance rates for aminoglycosides and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, multiple associated resistance genes were observed. A similar, slightly more diverse situation was recorded for the other deployment sites. In summary, this assessment provides first next-generation sequencing-based epidemiological data on third-generation cephalosporine-resistant E. coli imported by deployed German soldiers with a particular focus on deployments to the Sahel region, thus serving as a small sentinel. The detected sequence types are well in line with the results from previous epidemiological assessments in sub-Saharan Africa.
A Novel Subfamily GH13_46 of the α-Amylase Family GH13 Represented by the Cyclomaltodextrinase from Flavobacterium sp. No. 92
Authors: Mareček Filip , Janeček Štefan
Published: December 2022

In the CAZy database, the α-amylase family GH13 has already been divided into 45 subfamilies, with additional subfamilies still emerging. The presented in silico study was undertaken in an effort to propose a novel GH13 subfamily represented by the experimentally characterized cyclomaltodxtrinase from Flavobacterium sp. No. 92. Although most cyclomaltodextrinases have been classified in the subfamily GH13_20. This one has not been assigned any GH13 subfamily as yet. It possesses a non-specified immunoglobulin-like domain at its N-terminus mimicking a starch-binding domain (SBD) and the segment MPDLN in its fifth conserved sequence region (CSR) typical, however, for the subfamily GH13_36. The searches through sequence databases resulted in collecting a group of 108 homologs forming a convincing cluster in the evolutionary tree, well separated from all remaining GH13 subfamilies. The members of the newly proposed subfamily share a few exclusive sequence features, such as the “aromatic” end of the CSR-II consisting of two well-conserved tyrosines with either glycine, serine, or proline in the middle or a glutamic acid succeeding the catalytic proton donor in the CSR-III. Concerning the domain N of the representative cyclomaltodextrinase, docking trials with α-, β- and γ-cyclodextrins have indicated it may represent a new type of SBD. This new GH13 subfamily has been assigned the number GH13_46.
β-Myrcene Mitigates Colon Inflammation by Inhibiting MAP Kinase and NF-κB Signaling Pathways
Authors: Almarzooqi Saeeda , Venkataraman Balaji , Raj Vishnu , Alkuwaiti Sultan Ali Abdulla , Das Karuna M. , Collin Peter D. , Adrian Thomas E. , Subramanya Sandeep B.
Published: December 2022

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are chronic inflammatory disorders that include Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). The incidence of IBD is rising globally. However, the etiology of IBD is complex and governed by multiple factors. The current clinical treatment for IBD mainly includes steroids, biological agents and need-based surgery, based on the severity of the disease. Current drug therapy is often associated with adverse effects, which limits its use. Therefore, it necessitates the search for new drug candidates. In this pursuit, phytochemicals take the lead in the search for drug candidates to benefit from IBD treatment. β-myrcene is a natural phytochemical compound present in various plant species which possesses potent anti-inflammatory activity. Here we investigated the role of β-myrcene on colon inflammation to explore its molecular targets. We used 2% DSS colitis and TNF-α challenged HT-29 adenocarcinoma cells as in vivo and in vitro models. Our result indicated that the administration of β-myrcene in dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-treated mice restored colon length, decreased disease activity index (DAI), myeloperoxidase (MPO) enzyme activity and suppressed proinflammatory mediators. β-myrcene administration suppressed mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathways to limit inflammation. β-myrcene also suppressed mRNA expression of proinflammatory chemokines in tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) challenged HT-29 adenocarcinoma cells. In conclusion, β-myrcene administration suppresses colon inflammation by inhibiting MAP kinases and NF-κB pathways.
PEEK and Hyaluronan-Based 3D Printed Structures: Promising Combination to Improve Bone Regeneration
Authors: Ferroni Letizia , D’Amora Ugo , Leo Sara , Tremoli Elena , Raucci Maria Grazia , Ronca Alfredo , Ambrosio Luigi , Zavan Barbara
Published: December 2022

Hybrid bone substitute made up of a 3D printed polyetheretherketone (PEEK) scaffold coated with methacrylated hyaluronic acid (MeHA)-hydroxyapatite (HAp) hydrogel is the objective of the present work. Development and characterization of the scaffold and of the MeHA-HAp after its infiltration and UV photocrosslinking have been followed by analyses of its biological properties using human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Interconnected porous PEEK matrices were produced by fused deposition modeling (FDM) characterized by a reticular pattern with 0°/90° raster orientation and square pores. In parallel, a MeHA-HAp slurry has been synthesized and infiltrated in the PEEK scaffolds. The mechanical properties of the coated and pure PEEK scaffold have been evaluated, showing that the inclusion of MeHA-HAp into the lattice geometry did not significantly change the strength of the PEEK structure with Young’s modulus of 1034.9 ± 126.1 MPa and 1020.0 ± 63.7 MPa for PEEK and PEEK-MeHA-HAp scaffolds, respectively. Human MSCs were seeded on bare and coated scaffolds and cultured for up to 28 days to determine the adhesion, proliferation, migration and osteogenic differentiation. In vitro results showed that the MeHA-HAp coating promotes MSCs adhesion and proliferation and contributes to osteogenic differentiation and extracellular matrix mineralization. This study provides an efficient solution for the development of a scaffold combining the great mechanical performances of PEEK with the bioactive properties of MeHA and HAp, having high potential for translational clinical applications.
Heme–Protein Interactions and Functional Relevant Heme Deformations: The Cytochrome c Case
Authors: Schweitzer-Stenner Reinhard
Published: December 2022

Heme proteins are known to perform a plethora of biologically important functions. This article reviews work that has been conducted on various class I cytochrome c proteins over a period of nearly 50 years. The article focuses on the relevance of symmetry-lowering heme–protein interactions that affect the function of the electron transfer protein cytochrome c. The article provides an overview of various, mostly spectroscopic studies that explored the electronic structure of the heme group in these proteins and how it is affected by symmetry-lowering deformations. In addition to discussing a large variety of spectroscopic studies, the article provides a theoretical framework that should enable a comprehensive understanding of the physical chemistry that underlies the function not only of cytochrome c but of all heme proteins.
Larix Sibirica Arabinogalactan Hydrolysis over Zr-SBA-15; Depolymerization Insight
Authors: Sychev Valentin V. , Malyar Yuriy N. , Skripnikov Andrey M. , Trotsky Yuriy A. , Zaitseva Yulia N. , Eremina Anna O. , Borovkova Valentina S. , Taran Oxana P.
Published: December 2022

Arabinogalactan depolymerization over solid Zr-containing SBA-15-based catalyst was studied via HPLC, GPC, and theoretical modeling. Arabinogalactans (AG) are hemicelluloses mainly present in larch wood species, which can be extracted on an industrial scale. The application of solid acid catalysts in the processes of hemicellulose conversion can exclude serious drawbacks such as equipment corrosion, etc. Characterization of 5%Zr-SBA-15 confirmed the successful formation of the mesoporous structure inherent to SBA-15 with fine Zr distribution and strong acidic properties (XRD, XPS, FTIR, pHpzc). Carrying out the process at 130 °C allowed us to achieve total products yield of up to 59 wt%, which is represented mainly by galactose (51 wt%) and minor (less than 9 wt%) presence of arabinose, furfural, 5-HMF, and levulinic acid. The temperature increases up to 150 °C resulted in a total product yield drop down to 37 wt%, making temperature elevation above 130 °C obsolete. According to the theoretical investigations, arabinogalactan depolymerization follows the primary cleavage of the β(1→3) bonds between the D-galactose units of the main chain, which is also confirmed by GPC.
Carbonylation of Polyfluorinated 1-Arylalkan-1-ols and Diols in Superacids
Authors: Wang Siqi , Zonov Yaroslav V. , Karpov Victor M. , Luzina Olga A. , Mezhenkova Tatyana V.
Published: December 2022

We describe the carbonylation of a series of mono and dihydroxy derivatives of polyfluorinated alkylbenzenes and benzocycloalkenes with OH groups at benzylic positions using carbon monoxide in the presence of a superacid (TfOH, a TfOH–SbF5 mixture, or a FSO3H–SbF5 mixture). It was shown that the superacid-catalyzed addition of CO to various primary and secondary polyfluorinated alcohols and diols gives the corresponding mono- and dicarboxylic acids or lactones. The efficiency of various superacids depending on alcohol structure was evaluated, and FSO3H–SbF5 yielded the best results in most transformations. The addition of CO to secondary 1-arylalkan-1-ols containing vicinal fluorine atoms was found to be accompanied by elimination of HF with the formation of α,β-unsaturated aryl-carboxylic acids. In contrast to primary and secondary alcohols, conversion of tertiary perfluoro-1,1-diarylalkan-1-ols into carbonylation products is not complete, and the resulting carboxylic acids are easily decarboxylated after water treatment of the reaction mixture.
Kinetics of Carotenoids Degradation during the Storage of Encapsulated Carrot Waste Extracts
Authors: Šeregelj Vanja , Estivi Lorenzo , Brandolini Andrea , Ćetković Gordana , Tumbas Šaponjac Vesna , Hidalgo Alyssa
Published: December 2022

The encapsulates of carrot waste oil extract improved the antioxidant properties of durum wheat pasta. The aim of this research was to study the kinetics of carotenoids degradation in the freeze-dried (FDE) and spray-dried (SDE) encapsulates of carrot waste extract during storage at four different temperatures (+4, +21.3, +30, +37 °C) up to 413 days by HPLC. Carotenoids levels decreased as a function of time and temperature, following zero-order kinetics. At 4 °C carotenes were stable for at least 413 days, but their half-lives decreased with increasing temperatures: 8–12 months at 21 °C; 3–4 months at 30 °C; and 1.5–2 months at 37 °C. The freeze-drying technique was more effective against carotenes degradation. An initial lag-time with no or very limited carotenes degradation was observed: from one week at 37 °C up to 3 months (SDE) or more (FDE) at 21 °C. The activation energies (Ea) varied between 66.6 and 79.5 kJ/mol, and Ea values tended to be higher in FDE than in SDE.
Multielemental, Nutritional, and Proteomic Characterization of Different Lupinus spp. Genotypes: A Source of Nutrients for Dietary Use
Authors: Spina Alfio , Saletti Rosaria , Fabroni Simona , Natalello Antonio , Cunsolo Vincenzo , Scarangella Michele , Rapisarda Paolo , Canale Michele , Muccilli Vera
Published: December 2022

Among grain pulses, lupins have recently gained considerable interest for a number of attractive nutritional attributes relating to their high protein and dietary fiber and negligible starch contents. The seeds of Lupinus albus (cv. Multitalia and Luxor, and the Modica ecotype); L. luteus (cv. Dukat, Mister, and Taper); and L. angustifolius (cv. Sonet) analyzed in this study were deposited within the germplasm collection of the Research Centre for Cereal and Industrial Crops of Acireale and were sowed in East Sicily in 2013/14. The collected seeds were analyzed for their multielemental micro- and macronutrient profiles, resulting in a wide variability between genotypes. Lupin seed flour samples were subjected to a defatting process using supercritical CO2, with oil yields dependent on the species and genotype. We determined the fatty acid profile and tocopherol content of the lupin oil samples, finding that the total saturated fatty acid quantities of different samples were very close, and the total tocopherol content was about 1500.00 µg/g FW. The proteomic analysis of the defatted lupin seed flours showed substantial equivalence between the cultivars of the same species of Lupinus albus and L. luteus. Moreover, the L. angustifolius proteome map showed the presence of additional spots in comparison to L. albus, corresponding to α-conglutins. Lupin, in addition to being a good source of mineral elements, also contributes vitamin E and, thanks to the very high content of gamma-tocopherols, demonstrates powerful antioxidant activity.
An Iron-NDC Framework with a Cage Structure and an Optothermal Conversion in NIR Window
Authors: Tan Bin , Wu Zhao-Feng , Huang Xiao-Ying
Published: December 2022

Pursuing novel materials with efficient photothermal conversion under irradiation at the near-infrared region windows (NIR, 750–850 nm; NIR-I and NIR-II, 1000–1320 nm)) is of great importance due to their irreplaceable applications, especially in the biomedical field. Herein, on the basis of a coordination chemistry strategy, an iron-based metal-organic framework (MOF) of [N(CH3)4]2[Fe3(NDC)4]·DMF·3H2O (Fe-NDC, 1,4-H2NDC = 1,4-naphthalenedicarboxylic acid, N(CH3)4+ = tetramethyl-ammonium, and DMF = N,N-dimethylformamide) was prepared and characterized. Due to the d-d transition effect introduced by coordination with the transition-metal ion of iron and the highly conjugated naphthalenic moiety in 1,4-H2NDC, guaranteeing an energy transfer between iron and the organic module, Fe-NDC shows a remarkable broad absorption, which could be extended into the NIR-II section. As a result, Fe-NDC could be irradiated by NIR laser (both 808 and 1064 nm) to achieve photothermal conversion. This work sets a good example to inspire the future designation of NIR light-irradiated photothermal materials based on the first-row transition metals.
Recent Advances of Ti/Zr-Substituted Polyoxometalates: From Structural Diversity to Functional Applications
Authors: Ni Zhihui , Lv Hongjin , Yang Guoyu
Published: December 2022

Polyoxometalates (POMs), a large family of anionic polynuclear metal–oxo clusters, have received considerable research attention due to their structural versatility and diverse physicochemical properties. Lacunary POMs are key building blocks for the syntheses of functional POMs due to their highly active multidentate O-donor sites. In this review, we have addressed the structural diversities of Ti/Zr-substituted POMs based on the polymerization number of POM building blocks and the number of Ti and Zr centers. The synthetic strategies and relevant catalytic applications of some representative Ti/Zr-substituted POMs have been discussed in detail. Finally, the outlook on the future development of this area is also prospected.
Short-Chain Fatty Acids Weaken Ox-LDL-Induced Cell Inflammatory Injury by Inhibiting the NLRP3/Caspase-1 Pathway and Affecting Cellular Metabolism in THP-1 Cells
Authors: Yi Chengxue , Sun Wen , Ding Longkun , Yan Man , Sun Chang , Qiu Chenguang , Wang Dongxu , Wu Liang
Published: December 2022

Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are important anti-inflammatory metabolites of intestinal flora. Oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL)-induced macrophage activation is critical for the formation of atherosclerosis plaque. However, the association between SCFAs and ox-LDL-induced macrophage activation with respect to the formation of atherosclerosis plaque has not yet been elucidated. The present study investigated whether SCFAs (sodium acetate, sodium propionate, and sodium butyrate) can affect ox-LDL-induced macrophage activation and potential signaling pathways via regulation of the expression of the NLRP3/Caspase-1 pathway. Using human monocyte-macrophage (THP-1) cells as a model system, it was observed that ox-LDL not only induced cell inflammatory injury but also activated the NLRP3/Caspase-1 pathway. The exogenous supplementation of three SCFAs could significantly inhibit cell inflammatory injury induced by ox-LDL. Moreover, three SCFAs decreased the expression of IL-1β and TNF-α via the inactivation of the NLRP3/Caspase-1 pathway induced by ox-LDL. Furthermore, three SCFAs affected cellular metabolism in ox-LDL-induced macrophages, as detected by untargeted metabolomics analysis. The results of the present study indicated that three SCFAs inhibited ox-LDL-induced cell inflammatory injury by blocking the NLRP3/Caspase-1 pathway, thereby improving cellular metabolism. These findings may provide novel insights into the role of SCFA intervention in the progression of atherosclerotic plaque formation.
Stabilization of the (C2H5)4NHSO4 High-Temperature Phase in New Silica-Based Nanocomposite Systems
Authors: Ponomareva Valentina , Bagryantseva Irina , Dormidonova Daria , Uvarov Nikolai
Published: December 2022

In this study, the electrotransport, thermal and structural properties of composite solid electrolytes based on (C2H5)4NHSO4 plastic phase and silica (1 − x)Et4NHSO4−xSiO2, where x = 0.3–0.9) were investigated for the first time. The composites were prepared by mechanical mixing of silica (300 m2/g, Rpore = 70Å) and salt with subsequent heating at temperatures near the Et4NHSO4 melting point. Heterogeneous doping is shown to change markedly the thermodynamic and structural parameters of the salt. It is important that, with an increase in the proportion of silica in the composites, the high-temperature disordered I41/acd phase is stabilized at room temperature, as this determines the properties of the system. Et4NHSO4 amorphization was also observed in the nanocomposites, with an increase in the matrix contents. The enthalpies of the endoeffects of salt melting and phase transitions (160 °C) changed more significantly than the Et4NHSO4 contents in the composites and completely disappeared at x = 0.9. The dependence of proton conductivity on the mole fraction reached a maximum at x = 0.8, which was three or four orders of magnitude higher than the value for pure Et4NHSO4, depending on the composition and the temperature. The maximum conductivity values were close to those for complete pore filling. The conductivity of the 0.2Et4NHSO4-0.8SiO2 composite reached 7 ∗ 10−3 S/cm at 220 °C and 10−4 S/cm at 110 °C.
Release of Bioactive Peptides from Erythrina edulis (Chachafruto) Proteins under Simulated Gastrointestinal Digestion
Authors: Correa Jessica L , Zapata José Edgar , Hernández-Ledesma Blanca
Published: December 2022

The estimated and concerning rise in world population over the next few years and the consequent increase in food demand will lead to a deterioration in global food security. To avoid or reduce this world crisis, informed and empowered consumers are turning to sustainable and nutrient-rich foods that substitute animal products, also reducing their associated environmental impact. Moreover, due to the demonstrated influence of diet on the risk of high incidence and mortality of noncommunicable diseases, the current established food pattern is focused on the consumption of foods that have functionality for health. Among these new foods, traditional and underutilized plants are gaining interest as alternative protein sources providing nutritional and biological properties. In this work, the potential of Erythrina edulis (chachafruto) proteins as a source of multifunctional peptides after transit through the gastrointestinal tract has been demonstrated, with antioxidant and immunostimulating effects in both biochemical assays and cell culture. While low molecular weight peptides released during the digestive process were found to be responsible for protection against oxidative stress mediated by their radical scavenging activity, high molecular weight peptides exerted immunostimulating effects by upregulation of immunoresponse-associated biomarkers. The findings of this study support the promising role of chachafruto proteins as a new antioxidant and immunostimulatory ingredient for functional foods and nutraceuticals.
Mid-Infrared Continuous Varifocal Metalens with Adjustable Intensity Based on Phase Change Materials
Authors: Shao Liangde , Zhou Kongsi , Zhao Fangfang , Gao Yixiao , Wang Bingxia , Shen Xiang
Published: December 2022

Metalenses can greatly reduce the complexity of imaging systems due to their small size and light weight and also provide a platform for the realization of multifunctional imaging devices. Achieving dynamic focus length tunability is highly important for metalens research. In this paper, based on single-crystal Ge and a new low-loss phase change material Ge2Sb2Se5 (GSSe), a tunable metalens formed by a double-layer metasurface composite was realized in the mid-infrared band. The first-layer metasurface formed by Ge nanopillars combines propagation and the geometric phase (equivalent to a half-wave plate function) to produce single- or multiple-polarization-dependent foci. The second-layer metasurface formed by GSSe nanopillars provides a tunable propagation phase, and the double-layer metalens can achieve the tunability of the focus length depending on the different crystalline fractions of GSSe. The focal length varies from 62.91 to 67.13 μm under right circularly polarized light incidence and from 33.84 to 36.66 μm under left circularly polarized light incidence. Despite the difference in the crystallographic fraction, the metalens’s focusing efficiency is maintained basically around 59% and 48% when zooming under RCP and LCP wave excitation. Meanwhile, the incident wave’s ellipticity can be changed to alter the relative intensity ratios of the bifocals from 0.03 to 4.26. This continuous varifocal metalens with adjustable intensity may have potential in practical applications such as optical tomography, multiple imaging, and systems of optical communication.
A Novel Electromagnetic Centric Multiphysics Parametric Modeling Approach Using Neuro-Space Mapping for Microwave Passive Components
Authors: Yan Shuxia , Zhang Yaoqian , Liu Wenyuan , Liu Gaohua , Shi Weiguang
Published: December 2022

An advanced Neuro-space mapping (Neuro-SM) multiphysics parametric modeling approach for microwave passive components is proposed in this paper. The electromagnetic (EM) domain model, which represents the EM responses with respect to geometrical parameters, is regarded as a coarse model. The multiphysics domain model, which represents the multiphysics responses with respect to both geometrical parameters and multiphysics parameters, is regarded as a fine model. The proposed model is constructed by the input mapping, the output mapping and the coarse model. The input mapping is used to map multiphysics parameters to EM parameters. The output mapping is introduced to further narrow the gap between the output of the coarse model and the multiphysics data. In addition, a three-stage training method is proposed for efficiently developing the proposed multiphysics model. The proposed technique, which combines the efficiency of EM analysis and the accuracy of multiphysics analysis, can achieve better accuracy with less multiphysics data than existing modeling methods. The developed Neuro-SM multiphysics model provides accurate and fast predictions of multiphysics responses. Therefore, the design cycle of microwave passive components is shortened while the modeling cost is significantly reduced. Two microwave filter examples are utilized to demonstrate the accuracy of the proposed parametric modeling technique.
Fluorescence Mapping of Agricultural Fields Utilizing Drone-Based LIDAR
Authors: Lednev Vasily N. , Grishin Mikhail Ya. , Sdvizhenskii Pavel A. , Kurbanov Rashid K. , Litvinov Maksim A. , Gudkov Sergey V. , Pershin Sergey M.
Published: December 2022

A compact and low-weight LIDAR instrument has been developed for laser-induced fluorescence spectroscopy sensing of maize fields. Fluorescence LIDAR had to be installed on a small industrial drone so that its mass was <2 kg and power consumption was <5 W. The LIDAR instrument utilized a continuous wave diode laser (405 nm, 150 mW) for inducing fluorescence and a small spectrometer for backscattered photons acquisition. For field testing, the LIDAR instrument was installed on a quadcopter for remote sensing of plants in a maize field in three periods of the plant’s life. The obtained fluorescence signal maps have demonstrated that the average chlorophyll content is rather non-uniform over the field and tends to increase through the plant vegetation cycle. Field tests proved the feasibility and perspectives of autonomous LIDAR sensing of agricultural fields from drones for the detection and location of plants under stress.
Scaling Law of THz Yield from Two-Color Femtosecond Filament for Fixed Pump Power
Authors: Nikolaeva Irina A. , Shipilo Daniil E. , Panov Nikolay A. , Liu Weiwei , Savel’ev Andrei B. , Kosareva Olga G.
Published: December 2022

In 3D + time numerical simulations, we study the wavelength scaling law for the energy of terahertz (THz) radiation emitted from a two-color femtosecond filament, which forms during cofocusing into air the fundamental and second harmonics of the laser pulse. In our simulations, the central wavelength of the fundamental harmonic varied from 0.8 to 8 μm and the numerical aperture varied from 0.006 to 0.03. While the harmonics and supercontinuum development are not extreme, so the harmonics spectra are clearly separated, the energy of the generated THz radiation is proportional to the oscillation energy of the electrons, which grows as the squared pump wavelength, and the total number of free electrons in the filament, which decreases quasi-exponentially with the pump wavelength. As a result, the scaling law for the THz energy on the pump wavelength is nonmonotonic with the maximum at 1.6–4 μm depending on the focusing conditions.
Carotenoids Recovery Enhancement by Supercritical CO2 Extraction from Tomato Using Seed Oils as Modifiers
Authors: Popescu Mihaela , Iancu Petrica , Plesu Valentin , Bildea Costin Sorin
Published: December 2022

The food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries have strong demands for lycopene, the carotenoid with the highest antioxidant activity. Usually, this carotenoid is extracted from tomatoes using various extraction methods. This work aims to improve the quantity and quality of extracts from tomato slices by enhancing the recovery of the carotenoids from the solid matrix to the solvent using 20 w/w% seeds as modifiers and supercritical CO2 extraction with optimal parameters as the method. Tomato (TSM), camelina (CSM) and hemp (HSM) seeds were used as modifiers due to their quality (polyunsaturated fatty acids content of 53–72%). A solubility of ~10 mg carotenoids/100 g of oil was obtained for CSM and HSM, while, for TSM, the solubility was 28% higher (due to different compositions of long carbon chains). An increase in the extraction yield from 66.00 to 108.65 g extract/kg dried sample was obtained in the following order: TSM < HSM < CSM. Two products, an oil rich in carotenoids (203.59 mg/100 g extract) and ω3-linolenic acid and a solid oleoresin rich in lycopene (1172.32 mg/100 g extract), were obtained using SFE under optimal conditions (450 bar, 70 °C, 13 kg/h and CSM modifier), as assessed by response surface methodology. A recommendation is proposed for the use of these products in the food industry based on their quality.
Construction and Optimization of Malonyl-CoA Sensors in Saccharomyces cerevisiae by Combining Promoter Engineering Strategies
Authors: He Shifan , Zhang Zhanwei , Zhang Chuanbo , Lu Wenyu
Published: December 2022

Biosensors can be used for high-throughput screening, real-time monitoring of metabolites, and dynamic regulation of metabolic processes, which have been a popular research direction in recent years. Here, five promoters from Saccharomyces cerevisiae were selected to construct Malonyl-CoA sensors with the fapO/fapR system derived from Bacillus subtilis, and pCCW12 was finally selected for further optimization. Based on pCCW12, a series of sensors with different response sensitivities were obtained by selecting different fapO insertion sites and combining the best two or three of them. Then, through a combination of promoter hybrid, intron insertion, and transcription factor modification strategies, we obtained sensors with different effects, one of which, the H-pCCW12(TFBS)-Cti6~fapR sensor, had the lowest background noise, doubled response range and higher response sensitivity compared to the original sensor. Sensors with different characteristics constructed in this study, can be applied to Malonyl-CoA related high-throughput screening and finer regulation of metabolism. It also proves that the combined application of different promoter engineering strategies is a feasible idea for the precise construction and regulation of biosensors.
Supercritical CO2 Impregnation of Clove Extract in Polycarbonate: Effects of Operational Conditions on the Loading and Composition
Authors: Jordão Amanda Martins , Coutinho Isabela Trindade , Silva Eric Keven , Kato Ilka Tiemy , Meireles Maria Angela A. , Maia-Obi Lígia Passos , da Silva Bruno Guzzo , Champeau Mathilde
Published: December 2022

The development of active packaging for food storage containers is possible through impregnation of natural extracts by supercritical CO2-assisted impregnation processes. The challenge of scCO2-impregnation of natural extracts is to control the total loading and to ensure that the composition of the loaded extract may preserve the properties of the crude extract. This study aimed at investigating the scCO2-impregnation of clove extract (CE) in polycarbonate (PC) to develop antibacterial packaging. A design of experiments was applied to evaluate the influences of temperature (35–60 °C) and pressure (10–30 MPa) on the clove loading (CL%) and on the composition of the loaded extract. The CL% ranged from 6.8 to 18.5%, and the highest CL% was reached at 60 °C and 10 MPa. The composition of the impregnated extract was dependent on the impregnation conditions, and it differed from the crude extract, being richer in eugenol (81.31–86.28% compared to 70.06 in the crude extract). Differential scanning calorimetry showed a high plasticizing effect of CE on PC, and high CL% led to the cracking of the PC surface. Due to the high loading of eugenol, which is responsible for the antibacterial properties of the CE, the impregnated PC is promising for producing antibacterial food containers.
Effect of Positive Bias and Pressure on Plasma Flow Characteristics in a Chemical Vapor Deposition Chamber
Authors: Wang Bisheng , Yang Di , Zhu Ximing , Zhao Yang , Wang Shuai , Zhu Jiaqi , Zhai Ming
Published: December 2022

To better understand how positive bias and deposition pressure affect the plasma flow properties in the deposition chamber during the bias-enhanced MPCVD process, a two-dimensional axisymmetric model based on the discharge mechanism of pure H2 was constructed. The coupling process between different physical field models of the electromagnetic field, plasma, and temperature field in the MPCVD reactor is realized. We studied the influence of positive bias voltage and deposition pressure variation on microwave plasma flow characteristics in the deposition chamber. There was a bias voltage threshold phenomenon in the case of positive bias, and the suitable value range was narrow. Additionally, with the increase in the deposition pressure, the electron temperature in the deposition chamber tends to increase locally and reaches its maximum value when the pressure is approximately 30 torr. It provides new ideas and guidance for optimizing the process parameter setting of the bias-enhanced MPCVD process.