bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metal-chelated biomaterial from collagen extracted from pleco skin (Pterygoplichthys pardalis)
Authors: Ovando-Roblero Amet , Meza-Gordillo Rocío , Castañeda-Valbuena Daniel , Castañón-González José Humberto , Ruiz-Valdiviezo Víctor Manuel , Gutiérrez-Santiago Rodrigo , Grajales-Lagunes Alicia
Published: November 2023

Collagen is a material which is recognized for its biocompatibility properties, biodegradability and low antigenicity, allowing it to be used for the creation of different materials as composites, scaffolds or hydrogels. However, collagen-based materials fail to provide useful mechanical properties in a final product. In this regard, it has been reported that the addition of metallic ions contributes towards supporting polymer matrices. Thus, the objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of metallic ions incorporation on the mechanical properties of biomaterials based on collagen from Pterygoplichthys pardalis and sodium polyacrylate (PAAS). It was observed that the addition of metallic ions modified the mechanical properties of biomaterials out of collagen and sodium polyacrylate (Co-PAAS). The greatest tensile force was achieved when 0.09 mg of collagen and 0.003 mol of Fe3+/g Co-PAAS were used. On the other hand, the greatest elongation at break was achieved when the biomaterial was synthesized with 0.09 mg of collagen and 0.002 mol of K1+/g Co-PAAS. Also, the highest value for Young’s modulus was found when the biomaterial was synthesized with 0.05 mg of collagen and 0.002 mol of Fe3+/g Co-PAAS and 0.003 mol of K1+/g Co-PAAS. Finally, it was concluded that P. pardalis could be a collagen source for the development of biomaterials due to its electrostatic interactions with metallic ions increasing the mechanical properties of the processed material significantly.
Skipping irrigation at pre- and post-anthesis stages influences grain yield and starch contents of bread wheat derived from synthetic or landraces
Authors: Shokat Sajid , Arif Mian Abdur Rehman , Waheed Muhammad Qandeel , Liu Fulai , Guzmán Carlos , Singh Sukhwinder
Published: November 2023

This study aims to evaluate the role of genetic diversity originated from three-way crosses of landraces and synthetic bread wheat derivatives attempted with elite cultivars to identify the genotypes having better grain yield as well as better starch contents under flowering stage drought stress. In total, 50 genotypes comprised of 47 derivatives of landraces and synthetics, and three standard varieties were grown in the fields of CIMMYT, Obregon following alpha lattice design with two replications. Drought stress was imposed by stopping the irrigation before anthesis and post-anthesis stages. Different traits related to physiological adaptations, earliness, grain yield and starch contents were decreased under drought stress except amylose which increased significantly. Canopy temperature depression was not significantly affected by drought stress. Further, we identified strong correlation of grain yield with plant height, normalized difference in vegetation index, plant maturity, spike length, grain number and thousand grain weight but negative with canopy temperature depression. Non-significant correlation of amylose and amylopectin was recorded with grain yield. Results revealed that genetic diversity derived from landraces and synthetic bread wheat can improve grain yield and starch contents but simultaneous improvement of both is elusive.
Machine learning approach for predicting compressive strength in foam concrete under varying mix designs and curing periods
Authors: Ahmad Soran Abdrahman , Ahmed Hemn Unis , Rafiq Serwan Khwrshid , Ahmad Dler Ali
Published: November 2023

Efforts to reduce the weight of buildings and structures, counteract the seismic threat to human life, and cut down on construction expenses are widespread. A strategy employed to address these challenges involves the adoption of foam concrete. Unlike traditional concrete, foam concrete maintains the standard concrete composition but excludes coarse aggregates, substituting them with a foam agent. This alteration serves a dual purpose: diminishing the concrete’s overall weight, thereby achieving a lower density than regular concrete, and creating voids within the material due to the foam agent, resulting in excellent thermal conductivity. This article delves into the presentation of statistical models utilizing three different methods—linear (LR), non-linear (NLR), and artificial neural network (ANN)—to predict the compressive strength of foam concrete. These models are formulated based on a dataset of 97 sets of experimental data sourced from prior research endeavors. A comparative evaluation of the outcomes is subsequently conducted, leveraging statistical benchmarks like the coefficient of determination (R2), root mean square error (RMSE), and mean absolute error (MAE), with the aim of identifying the most proficient model. The results underscore the remarkable effectiveness of the ANN model. This is evident in the ANN model’s R2 value, which surpasses that of the LR model by 36% and the non-linear model by 22%. Furthermore, the ANN model demonstrates significantly lower MAE and RMSE values compared to both the LR and NLR models.
Hemoptysis recurrence in an Indonesian female with pulmonary aspergilloma: A case report
Authors: Subay Susi , Yudhawati Resti
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Introduction

and Importance: Pulmonary aspergilloma causes hemoptysis recurrence, and most patients die if surgery is not performed. In this case, the diagnosis challenge was when the patient had a history of pulmonary tuberculosis.

Case presentation

An Indonesian female, 25 years old, complained of recurring hemoptysis and dyspnea with a pulmonary tuberculosis history five years ago. First, hemoptysis occurred 2 years ago, treated and cured. Chest X-ray and CT-scan results showed pulmonary tuberculosis, but Mycobacterium tuberculosis was not detected when Ziehl Neelsen and GeneXpert tests were conducted. A repeated CT scan found a fungus ball and was used for differential diagnosis of pulmonary aspergilloma. The patient underwent a left lateral lobectomy and was given 150 mg/day of fluconazole. The patient showed a good prognosis for 2 months and increased body weight by 3 kg.

Clinical discussion

The challenge in pulmonary aspergilloma is an atypical sign and symptom that raises suspicion of pulmonary tuberculosis because the patient had a tuberculosis history. Resection in pulmonary aspergilloma is recommended to decrease mortality risk and continue with antifungal drugs to support a good prognosis.

Conclusion

Surgery and antifungal management in pulmonary aspergilloma can reduce mortality.

Highlights
Integrative analysis of new Clinostomum metacercariae (Digenea, Clinostomidae) using COI mtDNA and morphology rises the number of lineages found in South American freshwater fishes
Authors: Montes M.M. , García I. , Paredes del Puerto J.M. , Barneche J.A. , Ibañez Shimabukuro M. , Reig Cardarella G.F. , Martorelli S.R. , Pérez Ponce de León G.
Published: November 2023

Clinostomidae is a diverse family of digenean parasitizing fish-eating birds as adults and fishes as metacercariae. The species composition, within the genus Clinostomum has been steadily increasing in recent years. In Argentina, four named species of Clinostomum have been documented, accompanied by four metacercariae representing distinct genetic lineages whose adults have not been identified. This study focused on examining clinostomids in three fish species – Australoheros scitulus (ASI), Cichlasoma dimerus (CDIM), and Pimelodella laticeps (PLA) – at various localities in Argentina. We conducted both morphological and molecular characterizations of the Clinostomum metacercariae collected from these fish species. Molecular phylogenetic analyses using COI mtDNA were performed to determine the placement of these metacercariae within the clinostomid phylogenetic tree. Clinostomum ASC represents a distinct lineage, morphologically distinguishable from other sequenced metacercariae due to its body shape (widest anteriorly and becoming slender towards the posterior end); this lineage was found to be closely related to C. caffarae. While Clinostomum CDIM and Clinostomum PLA exhibited morphological differences, they clustered together genetically with metacercariae reported in previous studies as Clinostomum L3 and Clinostomum CVI. This outcome, coupled with a low genetic distance (0 to 3%), suggests that they are conspecific with metacercariae found in fish across Mexico, Costa Rica, and Argentina. In light of the extensive diversity of fish species in Argentine freshwater ecosystems (over 500 species), and considering the relatively constrained extent of prior investigations, the anticipation of unearthing additional Clinostomum species or lineages is plausible.
Bells and whistles: listening between the lines in sixteenth-century Exeter
Authors: Osborne Kate
Published: November 2023

In an attempt to counteract the silence of Exeter’s late sixteenth-century cartographic representation and to explore further the idea of urban social relations expressed in auditory terms, this article investigates the issues involved in the ringing of Exeter’s civic bells, some of which may reflect a fractious relationship between two sources of authority within the city walls. It sets out some of the challenges to recreating this city’s broader sonic identity and outlines the results of initial attempts to do so.
Variability of Sarocladium oryzae [(Sawada) Games & Hawksworth] and identification of novel donors for sheath rot resistance among temperate germplasm lines of rice
Authors: Manzoor Tabassum , Ahanger Mohd Ashraf , Altaf Heena
Published: November 2023

Sheath rot is one of the most destructive emerging diseases of rice in Asia and a significant loss (20–85%) to rice production is caused by this disease under temperate agro-climatic conditions of Kashmir. Disease is more prevalent in higher belts of valley where Japonica rice cultivation is more common. Also, late-maturing varieties are more likely to be attacked by sheath rot disease of rice. Information regarding the occurrence and distribution of any pathogen and its variability in the field is very much essential to devise a suitable disease management programme against the particular pathogen. The isolates of Sarocladium oryzae tested in the present study exhibited considerable variation in cultural characteristics, morphology and pathogenicity. The resistant sources for sheath rot disease of rice were identified among the temperate germplasm of rice under a relatively high inoculum concentration and disease pressure of all the variable isolates of S. oryzae. Among 219 rice genotypes screened for resistance against S. oryzae under field conditions, 42 genotypes were further evaluated under controlled epiphytotic conditions against all the 18 isolates of S. oryzae. Four genotypes (SKUA-354, ORN-V4, GS-183, GS357) were finally selected with high resistance against sheath rot disease of rice which can be utilized as potential donors for the development of disease-resistant varieties of rice against sheath rot.
Constraining Sector‐Specific CO2 Fluxes Using Space‐Based XCO2 Observations Over the Los Angeles Basin
Authors: Roten Dustin , Lin John C. , Das Saswati , Kort Eric A.
Published: November 2023

The concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) in Earth's atmosphere is increasing due to human activities and the resulting effects on the global climate system have initiated several policy‐driven approaches to reduce emissions of this greenhouse gas. Quantifying the effectiveness of such policies requires both bottom‐up and top‐down approaches to estimate CO2 emissions. This work investigates, for the first time, the potential of using Snapshot Area Map observations from NASA's OCO‐3 instrument to disaggregate sector‐specific emissions from instrument observations. Optimized sector‐specific timeseries were produced using Bayesian inversion techniques and compared to proxy activity data from transportation, commercial maritime, and industrial sectors in the Los Angeles Basin. Results demonstrate that dense space‐based observations of atmospheric CO2 are capable of disentangling sector‐specific CO2 fluxes, paving the way for accurate monitoring of the effects of carbon‐reduction policies and operational carbon monitoring systems.
Ginsenoside Rg3 enriches SCFA-producing commensal bacteria to confer protection against enteric viral infection via the cGAS-STING-type I IFN axis
Authors: Wang Gan , Liu Jingtianyi , Zhang Yanan , Xie Jinyan , Chen Shuxian , Shi Yuhua , Shi Fushan , Zhu Shu Jeffrey
Published: November 2023

The microbiota-associated factors that influence host susceptibility and immunity to enteric viral infections remain poorly defined. We identified that the herbal monomer ginsenoside Rg3 (Rg3) can shape the gut microbiota composition, enriching robust short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing Blautia spp. Colonization by representative Blautia coccoides and Blautia obeum could protect germ-free or vancomycin (Van)-treated mice from enteric virus infection, inducing type I interferon (IFN-I) responses in macrophages via the MAVS-IRF3-IFNAR signaling pathway. Application of exogenous SCFAs (acetate/propionate) reproduced the protective effect of Rg3 and Blautia spp. in Van-treated mice, enhancing intracellular Ca2+- and MAVS-dependent mtDNA release and activating the cGAS-STING-IFN-I axis by stimulating GPR43 signaling in macrophages. Our findings demonstrate that macrophage sensing of metabolites from specific commensal bacteria can prime the IFN-I signaling that is required for antiviral functions.
Visualizing ultrafast photothermal dynamics with decoupled optical force nanoscopy
Authors: Wang Hanwei , Meyer Sean M. , Murphy Catherine J. , Chen Yun-Sheng , Zhao Yang
Published: November 2023

The photothermal effect in nanomaterials, resulting from resonant optical absorption, finds wide applications in biomedicine, cancer therapy, and microscopy. Despite its prevalence, the photothermal effect in light-absorbing nanoparticles has typically been assessed using bulk measurements, neglecting near-field effects. Beyond standard imaging and therapeutic uses, nanosecond-transient photothermal effects have been harnessed for bacterial inactivation, neural stimulation, drug delivery, and chemical synthesis. While scanning probe microscopy and electron microscopy offer single-particle imaging of photothermal fields, their slow speed limits observations to milliseconds or seconds, preventing nanoscale dynamic investigations. Here, we introduce decoupled optical force nanoscopy (Dofn), enabling nanometer-scale mapping of photothermal forces by exploiting unique phase responses to temporal modulation. We employ the photothermal effect’s back-action to distinguish various time frames within a modulation period. This allows us to capture the dynamic photothermal process of a single gold nanorod in the nanosecond range, providing insights into non-stationary thermal diffusion at the nanoscale.
PRMT2 promotes HIV-1 latency by preventing nucleolar exit and phase separation of Tat into the Super Elongation Complex
Authors: Jin Jiaxing , Bai Hui , Yan Han , Deng Ting , Li Tianyu , Xiao Ruijing , Fan Lina , Bai Xue , Ning Hanhan , Liu Zhe , Zhang Kai , Wu Xudong , Liang Kaiwei , Ma Ping , Gao Xin , Hu Deqing
Published: November 2023

The HIV-1 Tat protein hijacks the Super Elongation Complex (SEC) to stimulate viral transcription and replication. However, the mechanisms underlying Tat activation and inactivation, which mediate HIV-1 productive and latent infection, respectively, remain incompletely understood. Here, through a targeted complementary DNA (cDNA) expression screening, we identify PRMT2 as a key suppressor of Tat activation, thus contributing to proviral latency in multiple cell line latency models and in HIV-1-infected patient CD4+ T cells. Our data reveal that the transcriptional activity of Tat is oppositely regulated by NPM1-mediated nucleolar retention and AFF4-induced phase separation in the nucleoplasm. PRMT2 preferentially methylates Tat arginine 52 (R52) to reinforce its nucleolar sequestration while simultaneously counteracting its incorporation into the SEC droplets, thereby leading to its functional inactivation to promote proviral latency. Thus, our studies unveil a central and unappreciated role for Tat methylation by PRMT2 in connecting its subnuclear distribution, liquid droplet formation, and transactivating function, which could be therapeutically targeted to eradicate latent viral reservoirs.
Hierarchically manufactured chiral plasmonic nanostructures with gigantic chirality for polarized emission and information encryption
Authors: Lee Yoon Ho , Won Yousang , Mun Jungho , Lee Sanghyuk , Kim Yeseul , Yeom Bongjun , Dou Letian , Rho Junsuk , Oh Joon Hak
Published: November 2023

Chiral metamaterials have received significant attention due to their strong chiroptical interactions with electromagnetic waves of incident light. However, the fabrication of large-area, hierarchically manufactured chiral plasmonic structures with high dissymmetry factors (g-factors) over a wide spectral range remains the key barrier to practical applications. Here we report a facile yet efficient method to fabricate hierarchical chiral nanostructures over a large area (>11.7 × 11.7 cm2) and with high g-factors (up to 0.07 in the visible region) by imparting extrinsic chirality to nanostructured polymer substrates through the simple exertion of mechanical force. We also demonstrate the application of our approach in the polarized emission of quantum dots and information encryption, including chiral quick response codes and anti-counterfeiting. This study thus paves the way for the rational design and fabrication of large-area chiral nanostructures and for their application in quantum communications and security-enhanced optical communications.
A closed translocation channel in the substrate-free AAA+ ClpXP protease diminishes rogue degradation
Authors: Ghanbarpour Alireza , Cohen Steven E. , Fei Xue , Kinman Laurel F. , Bell Tristan A. , Zhang Jia Jia , Baker Tania A. , Davis Joseph H. , Sauer Robert T.
Published: November 2023

AAA+ proteases degrade intracellular proteins in a highly specific manner.E. coliClpXP, for example, relies on a C-terminal ssrA tag or other terminal degron sequences to recognize proteins, which are then unfolded by ClpX and subsequently translocated through its axial channel and into the degradation chamber of ClpP for proteolysis. Prior cryo-EM structures reveal that the ssrA tag initially binds to a ClpX conformation in which the axial channel is closed by a pore-2 loop. Here, we show that substrate-free ClpXP has a nearly identical closed-channel conformation. We destabilize this closed-channel conformation by deleting residues from the ClpX pore-2 loop. Strikingly, open-channel ClpXP variants degrade non-native proteins lacking degrons faster than the parental enzymes in vitro but degraded GFP-ssrA more slowly. When expressed inE. coli, these open channel variants behave similarly to the wild-type enzyme in assays of filamentation and phage-Mu plating but resulted in reduced growth phenotypes at elevated temperatures or when cells were exposed to sub-lethal antibiotic concentrations. Thus, channel closure is an important determinant of ClpXP degradation specificity.
Leveraging information between multiple population groups and traits improves fine-mapping resolution
Authors: Zhou Feng , Soremekun Opeyemi , Chikowore Tinashe , Fatumo Segun , Barroso Inês , Morris Andrew P. , Asimit Jennifer L.
Published: November 2023

Statistical fine-mapping helps to pinpoint likely causal variants underlying genetic association signals. Its resolution can be improved by (i) leveraging information between traits; and (ii) exploiting differences in linkage disequilibrium structure between diverse population groups. Using association summary statistics, MGflashfm jointly fine-maps signals from multiple traits and population groups; MGfm uses an analogous framework to analyse each trait separately. We also provide a practical approach to fine-mapping with out-of-sample reference panels. In simulation studies we show that MGflashfm and MGfm are well-calibrated and that the mean proportion of causal variants with PP > 0.80 is above 0.75 (MGflashfm) and 0.70 (MGfm). In our analysis of four lipids traits across five population groups, MGflashfm gives a median 99% credible set reduction of 10.5% over MGfm. MGflashfm and MGfm only require summary level data, making them very useful fine-mapping tools in consortia efforts where individual-level data cannot be shared.
Site-selected in situ polymerization for living cell surface engineering
Authors: Zhong Yihong , Xu Lijia , Yang Chen , Xu Le , Wang Guyu , Guo Yuna , Cheng Songtao , Tian Xiao , Wang Changjiang , Xie Ran , Wang Xiaojian , Ding Lin , Ju Huangxian
Published: November 2023

The construction of polymer-based mimicry on cell surface to manipulate cell behaviors and functions offers promising prospects in the field of biotechnology and cell therapy. However, precise control of polymer grafting sites is essential to successful implementation of biomimicry and functional modulation, which has been overlooked by most current research. Herein, we report a biological site-selected, in situ controlled radical polymerization platform for living cell surface engineering. The method utilizes metabolic labeling techniques to confine the growth sites of polymers and designs a Fenton-RAFT polymerization technique with cytocompatibility. Polymers grown at different sites (glycans, proteins, lipids) have different membrane retention time and exhibit differential effects on the recognition behaviors of cellular glycans. Of particular importance is the achievement of in situ copolymerization of glycomonomers on the outermost natural glycan sites of cell membrane, building a biomimetic glycocalyx with distinct recognition properties.
An integrated study to decipher immunosuppressive cellular communication in the PDAC environment
Authors: AVŞAR Gülben , PİR Pınar
Published: November 2023

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one the most aggressive cancers and characterized by a highly rigid and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). The extensive cellular interactions are known to play key roles in the immune evasion, chemoresistance, and poor prognosis. Here, we used the spatial transcriptomics, scRNA-seq, and bulk RNA-seq datasets to enhance the insights obtained from each to decipher the cellular communication in the TME. The complex crosstalk in PDAC samples was revealed by the single-cell and spatial transcriptomics profiles of the samples. We show that tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are the central cell types in the regulation of microenvironment in PDAC. They colocalize with the cancer cells and tumor-suppressor immune cells and take roles to provide an immunosuppressive environment. LGALS9 gene which is upregulated in PDAC tumor samples in comparison to healthy samples was also found to be upregulated in TAMs compared to tumor-suppressor immune cells in cancer samples. Additionally, LGALS9 was found to be the primary component in the crosstalk between TAMs and the other cells. The widespread expression of P4HB gene and its interaction with LGALS9 was also notable. Our findings point to a profound role of TAMs via LGALS9 and its interaction with P4HB that should be considered for further elucidation as target in the combinatory immunotherapies for PDAC.
Carbon footprint and embodied nutrition evaluation of 388 recipes
Authors: Long Yin , Huang Liqiao , Fujie Rinakira , He Pan , Chen Zhiheng , Xu Xiaoyan , Yoshida Yoshikuni
Published: November 2023

Food consumption, which delivers fundamental energy and essential nutrients to human beings, is crucial for achieving a series of sustainable goals. Alongside rising population growth and living standards, there has been a significant increase in food cultivation demands, supply chain complexities, and waste management. Therefore, to protect human health and the environment, promoting sustainable food systems and the uptake of sustainable dietary habits are vital. Yet, information on the environmental and health impact of dietary choices remains inconsistent across multiple evaluation methods, which fail to deliver essential ideas to consumers. In this study, we formulate an integrated approach using Environmentally Extended Input-Output analysis, covering the food supply chain from production to the distribution phase, complemented with a hybrid Life Cycle Assessment for cooking and disposal processes, to quantify the carbon footprint of specific recipes. Our dataset also includes the distinct nutritional values of each recipe. This dataset not only informs the food industry and recipe platforms, enabling more sustainable choices, but also helps individuals balance nutritional value with environmental impact, leading to more informed and sustainable dietary decisions.
Interaction networks of Escherichia coli replication proteins under different bacterial growth conditions
Authors: Morcinek-Orłowska Joanna , Walter Beata , Forquet Raphaël , Cysewski Dominik , Carlier Maxime , Mozolewski Michał , Meyer Sam , Glinkowska Monika
Published: November 2023

In this work we analyzed protein-protein interactions (PPIs) formed by E. coli replication proteins under three disparate bacterial growth conditions. The chosen conditions corresponded to fast exponential growth, slow exponential growth and growth cessation at the stationary phase. We performed affinity purification coupled with mass spectrometry (AP-MS) of chromosomally expressed proteins (DnaA, DnaB, Hda, SeqA, DiaA, DnaG, HolD, NrdB), tagged with sequential peptide affinity (SPA) tag. Composition of protein complexes was characterized using MaxQuant software. To filter out unspecific interactions, we employed double negative control system and we proposed qualitative and quantitative data analysis strategies that can facilitate hits identification in other AP-MS datasets. Our motivation to undertake this task was still insufficient understanding of molecular mechanisms coupling DNA replication to cellular growth. Previous works suggested that such control mechanisms could involve physical interactions of replication factors with metabolic or cell envelope proteins. However, the dynamic replication protein interaction network (PIN) obtained in this study can be used to characterize links between DNA replication and various cellular processes in other contexts.
Birds of a feather flock together: a dataset for Clock and Adcyap1 genes from migration genetics studies
Authors: Le Clercq Louis-Stéphane , Bazzi Gaia , Ferrer Obiol Joan , Cecere Jacopo G. , Gianfranceschi Luca , Grobler J. Paul , Kotzé Antoinette , Riutort León Marta , González-Solís Jacob , Rubolini Diego , Liedvogel Miriam , Dalton Desiré Lee
Published: November 2023

Birds in seasonal habitats rely on intricate strategies for optimal timing of migrations. This is governed by environmental cues, including photoperiod. Genetic factors affecting intrinsic timekeeping mechanisms, such as circadian clock genes, have been explored, yielding inconsistent findings with potential lineage-dependency. To clarify this evidence, a systematic review and phylogenetic reanalysis was done. This descriptor outlines the methodology for sourcing, screening, and processing relevant literature and data. PRISMA guidelines were followed, ultimately including 66 studies, with 34 focusing on candidate genes at the genotype-phenotype interface. Studies were clustered using bibliographic coupling and citation network analysis, alongside scientometric analyses by publication year and location. Data was retrieved for allele data from databases, article supplements, and direct author communications. The dataset, version 1.0.2, encompasses data from 52 species, with 46 species for the Clock gene and 43 for the Adcyap1 gene. This dataset, featuring data from over 8000 birds, constitutes the most extensive cross-species collection for these candidate genes, used in studies investigating gene polymorphisms and seasonal bird migration.
Multiple impact effects of helium-driven shocks on thin fiber-metal laminates
Authors: Pai Anand , Rodriguez-Millan Marcos , Kini Chandrakant R. , Shenoy B. Satish
Published: November 2023

Fiber Metal Laminates (FMLs) have garnered considerable attention and are increasingly being utilized in the development of protective armors for explosion and ballistic scenarios. While most research has focused on assessing the response of FMLs to single impacts, real battlefield situations often require shielding structures to endure multiple impacts. Thus, this study revolves around the creation of hybrid FMLs designed for shock shielding purposes. The primary focus is on how these laminates withstand repetitive impacts from high-intensity shock waves, aiming to pinpoint the optimal sequence that offers the highest resistance against multiple shock impacts. To establish effective shielding, a multi-layered FML configuration is employed. This configuration incorporates AA6061-T6 facing plates, ballistic-grade synthetic materials like aramid/epoxy ply, and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE)/epoxy ply. Additionally, a paperboard/epoxy lamina is introduced to induce functional grading based on layerwise shock impedance mismatches. Shock impact experiments are conducted using a shock tube equipped with helium as the driver gas. Critical shock parameters, including Mach Number, positive impulse, and peak overpressure, are meticulously evaluated. For validation purposes, a numerical model is employed to project the damage profile as a function of radial distance across different laminate sequences. The study unveils that ply deformations are strongly influenced by the arrangement of core layers, particularly the positions of the paperboard and UHMWPE layers within the core structure. To contextualize the findings, the shock impact results obtained from this study are compared with those from prior experiments that employed nitrogen-driven shocks.
Association of serum uric acid with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Yang Zhe , Lv Tian , Lv Xiaoheng , Wan Fangyuan , Zhou Hong , Wang Xiaoling , Zhang Lisan
Published: November 2023

The study investigated the association between Serum Uric Acid (SUA) levels and all-cause as well as cardiovascular mortality in patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). This prospective cohort study enrolled participants with OSA from four cycles of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) conducted between 2005 and 2008, and 2015–2018. A weighted Cox proportional hazards model was used to assess adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) for all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. Additionally, multivariable logistic regression and restricted cubic splines (RCS) models were employed to examine nonlinear relationships between SUA and all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. Among the 5,584 OSA participants included in the study, covering the four NHANES cycles and with a median follow-up of 4.333 years, a total of 537 deaths were observed, including 108 deaths attributed to cardiovascular disease. Comparing the fourth quartile (Q4) of uric acid levels, both the fifth quartile (Q5) (aHRs = 1.51, 95% CI [1.08, 2.12]) and the second quartile (Q2) (aHRs = 1.53, 95% CI [1.04, 2.25]) of uric acid levels were independently associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality. Furthermore, comparing the fourth quartile (Q4) of uric acid levels, the second quartile (Q2) (aHRs = 2.40, 95% CI [1.08, 5.35]) of uric acid levels were independently associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular mortality. The RCS model demonstrated a U-shaped pattern in the association between SUA and all-cause mortality in OSA, with an inflection point observed at 5.83 mg/dl. The findings of this study suggest a U-shaped association between serum SUA levels and all-cause mortality and nonlinearity association between serum SUA levels and all-cause mortality. Further studies are warranted to determine the causal relationship between SUA levels and all-cause and cardiovascular mortality.
AI specialization for pathways of economic diversification
Authors: Mishra Saurabh , Koopman Robert , De Prato Giuditta , Rao Anand , Osorio-Rodarte Israel , Kim Julie , Spatafora Nikola , Strier Keith , Zaccaria Andrea
Published: November 2023

The growth in AI is rapidly transforming the structure of economic production. However, very little is known about how within-AI specialization may relate to broad-based economic diversification. This paper provides a data-driven framework to integrate the interconnection between AI-based specialization with goods and services export specialization to help design future comparative advantage based on the inherent capabilities of nations. Using detailed data on private investment in AI and export specialization for more than 80 countries, we propose a systematic framework to help identify the connection from AI to goods and service sector specialization. The results are instructive for nations that aim to harness AI specialization to help guide sources of future competitive advantage. The operational framework could help inform the public and private sectors to uncover connections with nearby areas of specialization.
Newly fabricated zinc oxide nanoparticles loaded materials for therapeutic nano delivery in experimental cryptosporidiosis
Authors: Hamdy Doaa A. , Ismail Mousa A. M. , El-Askary Hala M. , Abdel-Tawab Heba , Ahmed Marwa M. , Fouad Fatma M. , Mohamed Fatma
Published: November 2023

Cryptosporidiosis is a global health problem that threatens the lives of immunocompromised patients. This study targets to fabricate and investigate the efficiency of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs), nitazoxanide (NTZ)-loaded ZnO-NPs, and Allium sativum (A. sativum)-loaded ZnO-NPs in treating cryptosporidiosis. Further FTIR, SEM, XRD, and zeta analysis were used for the characterization of ZnO-NPs and loaded materials. The morphology of loaded materials for ZnO-NPs changed into wrapped layers and well-distributed homogenous particles, which had a direct effect on the oocyst wall. The charge surface of all particles had a negative sign, which indicated well distribution into the parasite matrix. For anti-cryptosporidiosis efficiency, thirty immunosuppressed Cryptosporidium parvum-infected mice, classified into six groups, were sacrificed on the 21st day after infection with an evaluation of parasitological, histopathological, and oxidative markers. It was detected that the highest reduction percent of Cryptosporidium oocyst shedding was (81.5%) in NTZ, followed by (71.1%) in A. sativum-loaded ZnO-NPs-treated groups. Also, treatment with A. sativum and NTZ-loaded ZnO-NPs revealed remarkable amelioration of the intestinal, hepatic, and pulmonary histopathological lesions. Furthermore, they significantly produced an increase in GSH values and improved the changes in NO and MDA levels. In conclusion, this study is the first to report ZnO-NPs as an effective therapy for treating cryptosporidiosis, especially when combined with other treatments that enhance their antioxidant activity. It provides an economical and environment-friendly approach to novel delivery synthesis for antiparasitic applications.
Improved lipid production and component of mycosporine-like amino acids by co-overexpression of amt1 and aroB genes in Synechocystis sp. PCC6803
Authors: Eungrasamee Kamonchanock , Lindblad Peter , Jantaro Saowarath
Published: November 2023

Implementing homologous overexpression of the amt1 (A) and aroB (B) genes involved in ammonium transporter and the synthesis of mycosporine-like amino acids (MAAs) and aromatic amino acids, respectively, we created three engineered Synechocystis sp. PCC6803 strains, including Ox-A, Ox-B, and Ox-AB, to study the utilization of carbon and nitrogen in cyanobacteria for the production of valuable products. With respect to amt1 overexpression, the Ox-A and Ox-AB strains had a greater growth rate under (NH4)2SO4 supplemented condition. Both the higher level of intracellular accumulation of lipids in Ox-A and Ox-AB as well as the increased secretion of free fatty acids from the Ox-A strain were impacted by the late-log phase of cell growth. It is noteworthy that among all strains, the Ox-B strain undoubtedly spotted a substantial accumulation of glycogen as a consequence of aroB overexpression. Additionally, the ammonium condition drove the potent antioxidant activity in Ox strains with a late-log phase, particularly in the Ox-B and Ox-AB strains. This was probably related to the altered MAA component inside the cells. The higher proportion of P4-fraction was induced by the ammonium condition in both Ox-B and Ox-AB, while the noted increase of the P1 component was found in the Ox-A strain.
Biodistribution and function of coupled polymer-DNA origami nanostructures
Authors: Joseph Noah , Shapiro Anastasia , Gillis Ella , Barkey Shirin , Abu-Horowitz Almogit , Bachelet Ido , Mizrahi Boaz
Published: November 2023

Spatial control over the distribution of therapeutics is a highly desired feature, which could limit the side effects of many drugs. Here we describe a nanoscale agent, fabricated from a coupled polymer-DNA origami hybrid that exhibits stability in serum and slow diffusion through tissues, in a manner correlating with shape and aspect ratio. Coupling to fragments of polyethylene glycol (PEG) through polyamine electrostatic interactions resulted in marked stability of the agents in-vivo, with > 90% of the agents maintaining structural integrity 5 days following subcutaneous injection. An agent functionalized with aptamers specific for human tumor necrosis factor TNF-alpha, significantly abrogated the inflammatory response in a delayed-type hypersensitivity model in humanized TNF-alpha mice. These findings highlight polymer-DNA hybrid nanostructures as a programmable and pharmacologically viable update to mainstream technologies such as monoclonal antibodies, capable of exerting an additional layer of control across the spatial dimension of drug activity.
Extended planar defects of oxygen vacancies in ferroelectric $$\hbox {BaTiO}_3$$ and impact on ferroelectricity
Authors: Qiu Shaohui , Fu Huaxiang
Published: November 2023

Extended defects of vacancies in ferroelectrics (FE), where vacancies spread over an extended space, are of critical importance in terms of understanding the long-standing problems such as polarization fatigue and aging. However, extended defects in FEs are poorly understood. Here we investigate the extended planar oxygen vacancies in ferroelectric $$\hbox {BaTiO}_3$$

BaTiO
3

using density functional theory and the modern theory of polarization. Oxygen vacancies of different charge states, namely $${\textrm{V}}^{2+}_{{\textrm{O}}}$$

V

O

2
+

, $${\textrm{V}}^{1+}_{{\textrm{O}}}$$

V

O

1
+

, and $${\textrm{V}}^{0}_{{\textrm{O}}}$$

V

O
0

, are studied. We obtain interesting results such as: (i) The formation energy of planar $${\textrm{V}}^{2+}_{{\textrm{O}}}$$

V

O

2
+

vacancies can be very small (merely 0.54 eV) even under the oxygen-rich condition, which is considerably smaller than the formation energy (4.0 eV) of planar $${\textrm{V}}^{0}_{{\textrm{O}}}$$

V

O
0

vacancies; (ii) Planar $${\textrm{V}}^{2+}_{{\textrm{O}}}$$

V

O

2
+

vacancies drastically reduce the ferroelectric polarization in $$\hbox {BaTiO}_3$$

BaTiO
3

by more than one order of magnitude, which provides a pivotal (theoretical) evidence that the planar oxygen vacancies could be the origin of polarization fatigue and imprinting. The polarization dead layer caused by planar oxygen vacancies is shown to be around 72 Å. Microscopic origin and insight, based on the local Ti-O relative displacements, are provided to understand these interesting phenomena.
Valorisation of Agro-industrial Waste: Recent Advances in the Recovery of Bioactive Compounds and Environmental Perspectives
Authors: Santiago B. , Sillero L. , Moreira M. T. , Feijoo G. , González-García S.
Published: November 2023

Population growth in recent years has led to an increase in the demand for food, thus increasing the amount of agro-industrial waste generated. It is therefore necessary to valorise these wastes in order to obtain maximum benefits from them. Bioactive compounds derived from these wastes have generated great interest in recent years due to their wide variety of potential applications. However, conventional processes used to extract them have a high environmental impact, requiring the use of other non-conventional and greener techniques. Many non-conventional methods are under study, but their real impact is unknown. For this reason, in this work, a study of several processes has been conducted, as well as evaluation of some of them from the point of view of their environmental sustainability, for which the life cycle assessment has been used. The results of the study demonstrate a lower environmental load for the studied non-conventional methods, especially in the case of ultrasound-assisted extraction. However, the sustainability of the different processes still needs to be further assessed, since there are still limitations at present.
Agri-food Waste: An Adjuvant for the Management of Oxidative Stress-related Disorders?
Authors: Mármol Inés , Pellicer Daniel
Published: November 2023

Agri-food waste represents a cheap raw material for the obtention of plant extracts with high antioxidant potential. Herein, we will discuss the role of oxidative stress in human health and the potential of plant extracts derived from agri-food waste in redox balance and, consequently, in disorders related to oxidative stress (metabolic syndrome, cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, etc.).
Advanced Food Waste Valorization Techniques for Bioenergy Production: A Path in the Direction of Environmental Sustainability
Authors: Anoopkumar A. N. , Aneesh Embalil Mathachan , Madhavan Aravind , Binod Parameswaran , Awasthi Mukesh Kumar , Kuddus Mohammed , Pandey Ashok , Kuriakose Laya Liz , Sindhu Raveendran
Published: November 2023

The abundant food waste over the world is being extensively generated day by day due to the augmenting demands of the rapid-growing human population. The improper management of the aforesaid threat has indicated the need for an emergency illustrating the development and implementation of specific advanced strategies and perspectives for timely exploitation and valorization. The rising concern regarding environmental issues followed by drastic waning in the amount of fossil resources has forced the research community and the public to use clean and renewable resources for the production of many high-value yields including bioenergy production. Recent advancements in the biotechnological and nanotechnological strategies primarily exemplify their significant contribution to valorization and bioenergy production. Directing towards the circular and green economic perspectives is noted to be an auspicious way for future studies targeting bioenergy production and waste utilization; it would also allow the research community to find out the answers to the questions targeting “how can we fight against the prominent social and environmental impacts instigated by food waste in the environment?”. The specific focus of this study is devoted to finding out the major and recent food waste valorization techniques that can be used for bioenergy production, with special inference on fighting against the environmental impacts instigated by food waste thereby opening a circular bio-economy way.
Quantitative analysis of SO2, NO2 and NO mixed gases based on ultraviolet absorption spectrum
Authors: Yang Yibiao , Li Jinhuan , Zhang Zihui , Wang Jianing , Lin Guanyu
Published: November 2023

Flow chart of ternary-gas concentration retrieval.
Accurate selected ion flow tube mass spectrometry quantification of ethylene oxide contamination in the presence of acetaldehyde
Authors: Swift Stefan J. , Dryahina Kseniya , Lehnert Ann-Sophie , Demarais Nicholas , Langford Vaughan S. , Perkins Mark J. , Silva Leslie P. , Omezzine Gnioua Maroua , Španěl Patrik
Published: November 2023

Rate coefficients and product ion branching ratios were obtained for the gas phase reactions of the H3O+, NO+, OH− and O−˙ ions with ethylene oxide and acetaldehyde.
Simultaneous separation and identification of all structural isomers and enantiomers of aminobutyric acid using a highly sensitive chiral resolution labeling reagent
Authors: Ozaki Makoto , Shimotsuma Motoshi , Kuranaga Takefumi , Kakeya Hideaki , Hirose Tsunehisa
Published: November 2023

We developed a method for the separation and highly sensitive detection of structural isomers and enantiomers of aminobutyric acid using a LC-MS with a C18 column by labeling with an original chiral resolution labeling reagent, l-FDVDA.
Solid solution polymorphs afford two highly soluble co-drug forms of tolbutamide and chlorpropamide
Authors: Spoletti Enrico , Verma Vivek , Cappuccino Chiara , Lusi Matteo
Published: November 2023

Tolbutamide and chloropropamide form two co-drug solid solutions that show a rare case of monotropic polymorphism at any composition. Both forms are kinetically stable and with faster dissolution rate than the pure drugs.
Homogenous nickel-catalyzed chemoselective transfer hydrogenation of functionalized nitroarenes with ammonia–borane
Authors: Dewangan Chitrarekha , Kumawat Sandeep , Bhatt Tarun , Natte Kishore
Published: November 2023

Homogeneous Ni-catalyzed highly chemoselective transfer hydrogenation of functionalized nitroarenes was successfully established using ammonia–borane as a hydrogen source.
Functional materials for aqueous redox flow batteries: merits and applications
Authors: Zhu Fulong , Guo Wei , Fu Yongzhu
Published: November 2023

This review offers an overview of the merits and applications of materials for aqueous redox flow batteries, focusing on the design principles of redox-active materials and the development of functional materials for electrodes and membranes.
A Dy-based single ion magnet in a SrLaGaO4 matrix: enhanced parameters in an expanded crystal lattice
Authors: Vasiliev Alexander V. , Sharifullin Timur Z. , Demidova Elena D. , Kremer Reinhard K. , Kazin Pavel E.
Published: November 2023

Dy3+ imbedded in a SrLaGaO4 matrix exhibits slow relaxation of magnetization involving two nonsequential excited states and demonstrates an enhanced relaxation time and remagnetization energy barrier in comparison with that in a CaYAlO4 matrix.
Towards a resilient and cost-competitive clean hydrogen economy: the future is green
Authors: Shirizadeh Behrang , Ailleret Aurelien , Guillon Augustin , Bovari Emmanuel , El Khatib Nazem , Douguet Sebastien , Issa Charbel Bou , Brauer Johannes , Trüby Johannes
Published: November 2023

Renewable hydrogen is set to dominate future clean hydrogen market.
Effect of microbially available phosphorous removal on Legionella spp. in multi-storey residential dwellings in Latvia
Authors: Zemīte Marta , Pūle Daina , Kiriļina-Gūtmane Olga , Ķimse Laima , Strods Mārtiņš , Zemītis Jurǵis , Mežule Linda , Valciņa Olga , Juhna Tālis
Published: November 2023

L. pneumophila counts increased by more than ten-fold in the P-reduced domestic hot water system once the heat exchanger setpoint was periodically lowered.
Ligilactobacillus salivarius CCFM 1266 modulates gut microbiota and GPR109a-mediated immune suppression to attenuate immune checkpoint blockade-induced colitis
Authors: Yan Shikai , Yu Leilei , Tian Fengwei , Zhao Jianxin , Chen Wei , Chen Haiqin , Zhai Qixiao
Published: November 2023

L. salivarius CCFM 1266 attenuates ICB-induced colitis via gut microbiota modulation, enhancing Treg, M2 macrophages, and IL-10. Nicotinic acid and GPR109a potentially mediate its effects, preserving antitumor immunity in ICB therapy.