bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Temporary Agency Work and Well-Being—The Mediating Role of Job Insecurity
Authors: Thomson Birgit , Hünefeld Lena
Published: October 2021

Organisations use non-standard employment as a means of flexibility and reduction of fixed costs. An increasingly growing group of employees are self-employed, have work contracts such as part-time and temporary contracts or are employed by a temporary agency, a development catalysed by the COVID pandemic. Whereas there is some evidence that temporary work might affect health via job insecurity (JI) there are hardly any studies focussing on the effects and mechanisms of temporary agency work (TAW). This study sheds light on TAW’s potential health impact and the role of JI in this respect using a mediation analysis. Based on the BIBB/BAuA-Employment Survey 2018 (N = 20.021, representative of the German working population), we analysed the direct effect of TAW on cognitive and psychosomatic aspects of well-being. In particular, we considered JI as mediator for this association. In line with the potentially detrimental effects of temporary employment on well-being, we found that TAW was related to unfavourable outcomes in terms of job satisfaction, general health status and musculoskeletal complaints. JI partially mediated all three underlying associations. Organisations need to be flexible and adaptable. However, by using temporary agency employment as a means to achieve this flexibility, managers and leaders should be aware that it is related to unfavourable well-being and hence hidden costs. In using this type of employment, both the temporary work agency and the user company should consider these health risks by providing health care, options for increasing the temporary agency workers (TA), workers employability, and equal treatment between permanent and TA workers at the actual workplace.
Prostate Cancer Survival by Risk and Other Prognostic Factors in Mallorca, Spain
Authors: Montaño Juan José , Barceló Antoni , Franch Paula , Galceran Jaume , Ameijide Alberto , Pons Jaime , Ramos Maria
Published: October 2021

Studies about the survival of patients with prostate cancer by stage or risk of progression are scarce. The aims of this study were (1) to determine the cause-specific survival by risk in prostate cancer patients in Mallorca diagnosed in the period 2006–2011; (2) to identify the factors that explain and predict the likelihood of survival and the risk of dying from this type of cancer; and (3) to determine the distribution of prostate cancer by risk in the patients in Mallorca diagnosed in the period 2006–2011. Incident prostate cancer cases diagnosed between 2006 and 2011 were identified through the Mallorca Cancer Registry. We collected age; date and method of diagnosis; date of follow-up or death; T, N, M and stage according to the TNM 7th edition; Gleason score; prostate-specific antigen (PSA); histology according to the International Classification of Diseases for Oncology (ICD-O) 3rd edition, comorbidities and treatments. We calculated risk in four categories: low, medium, high and very high. The end point of follow-up was 31 December 2014. Multiple imputation (MI) was performed to estimate cases with unknown risk. We identified 2921 cases. Five years after diagnosis, survival after MI was 89% globally, and was 100% for low-risk cases, 96% for medium risk, 93% for high risk and 69% for very-high-risk cases. Cases with histology other than adenocarcinoma, with high (and especially very high) risk, as well as with systemic, mixed and observation/unspecified treatments had worse prognoses.
Monoclonal Antibodies against SARS-CoV-2: Potential Game-Changer Still Underused
Authors: Gentile Ivan , Maraolo Alberto Enrico , Buonomo Antonio Riccardo , Nobile Mariano , Piscitelli Prisco , Miani Alessandro , Schiano Moriello Nicola
Published: October 2021

Even several months after the start of a massive vaccination campaign against COVID-19, mortality and hospital admission are still high in many countries. Monoclonal antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 are the ideal complement to vaccination in infected subjects who are at high risk for progression to severe disease. Based on data of the Italian Ministry of Health, in the period April–August 2021, monoclonal antibodies were prescribed to 6322 patients. In the same period, 70,022 patients over 70 years old became infected with SARS-CoV-2. Even considering that all monoclonal antibodies were prescribed to this category of patients, we calculated that only 9% of these subjects received the treatment. Moreover, using efficacy data provided by clinal trials, we estimated the potential benefit in terms of reduction of hospital admissions and deaths. Considering utilisation of monoclonal antibodies in half infected patients over 70 years, we estimated that hospital admissions and deaths might have been reduced by 7666 and 3507, respectively. Finally, we calculated the economic benefit of monoclonal use. In the same scenario (50% use of monoclonal antibodies to patients over 70), we estimated potential savings of USD 117,410,105. In conclusion, monoclonal antibodies were used in a small proportion of patients over 70 in Italy. A more extensive use might have resulted in a marked decrease in hospital admissions, deaths and in conspicuous saving for the health system.
Forecasting the Romanian Unemployment Rate in Time of Health Crisis—A Univariate vs. Multivariate Time Series Approach
Authors: Davidescu Adriana AnaMaria , Apostu Simona-Andreea , Marin Aurel
Published: October 2021

Economic crises cause significant shortages in disposable income and a sharp decline in the living conditions, affecting healthcare sector, hitting the profitability and sustainability of companies leading to raises in unemployment. At micro level, these sharp decreases in earnings associated with unemployment and furthermore with the lack of social protection will impact the quality of life and finally the health of individuals. In time of crisis, it becomes vital to support not only the critical sectors of the economy, the assets, technology, and infrastructure, but to protect jobs and workers. This health crisis has hit hard the jobs dynamics through unemployment and underemployment, the quality of work (through wages, or access to social protection), and through the effects on specific groups, with a higher degree of vulnerability to unfavorable labor market outcomes. In this context, providing forecasts as recent as possible for the unemployment rate, a core indicator of the Romanian labor market that could include the effects of the market shocks it becomes fundamental. Thus, the paper aims to offer valuable forecasts for the Romanian unemployment rate using univariate vs. multivariate time series models for the period 2021–2022, highlighting the main patterns of evolution. Based on the univariate time series models, the paper predict the future values of unemployment rate based on its own past using self-forecasting and implementing ARFIMA and SETAR models using monthly data for the period January 2000–April 2021. From the perspective of multivariate time series models, the paper uses VAR/VECM models, analyzing the temporal interdependencies between variables using quarterly data for the period 2000Q1–2020Q4. The empirical results pointed out that both SETAR and VECM provide very similar results in terms of accuracy replicating very well the pre-pandemic period, 2018Q2–2020Q1, reaching the value of 4.1% at the beginning of 2020, with a decreasing trend reaching the value of 3.9%, respectively, 3.6% at the end of 2022.
Enhancing Consumer Experience through Development of Implicit Attitudes Using Food Delivery Applications
Authors: Gârdan Daniel Adrian , Epuran Gheorghe , Paștiu Carmen Adina , Gârdan Iuliana Petronela , Jiroveanu Daniel Constantin , Tecău Alina Simona , Prihoancă Diana Magdalena
Published: October 2021

In the context created by the COVID-19 pandemic, the aim of the research in this article is to highlight how the consumer experience is constructed, starting from the consumer’s attitudes—which we consider to be implicitly positive—and from the formation of habits of using mobile applications for food supply. Data were collected from 610 people—users of applications for food delivery in urban areas—in the spring of 2021, using a quantitative type of research in the form of a field survey based on questionnaire completion; for the model validation, we used confirmatory factor analysis. The online questionnaire link was sent out in April 2021, followed by the consumers’ completion of the questionnaire in the same month. The proposed theoretical model highlights the influence of variables that are specific for technology acceptance models on the perceived utility and development of implicit attitudes based on it, as well as the habits of using the application. The results of the research validate the proposed model, showing that attitudes in the form of an implicit-type attitudes developed in time are influencing habits and aid the development of a certain usage behavior depicted by a consumption experience that has specific content. Our paper contributes to a better understanding of the consumer experience development process within the context of technology acceptance in the field of food delivery services, emphasizing the importance of satisfying hedonic motivations as an integral part of the compensatory mechanisms determined by the effects of the pandemic.
Mechanical Properties and Residual Stress Measurements of Grade IV Titanium and Ti-6Al-4V and Ti-13Nb-13Zr Titanium Alloys after Laser Treatment
Authors: Jażdżewska Magdalena , Kwidzińska Dominika Beata , Seyda Wiktor , Fydrych Dariusz , Zieliński Andrzej
Published: October 2021

Nowadays, surface engineering focuses on research into materials for medical applications. Titanium and its alloys are prominent, especially Ti-6Al-4V and Ti-13Nb-13Zr. Samples made of pure grade IV titanium and the titanium alloys Ti-6Al-4V and Ti-13Nb-13Zr were modified via laser treatment with laser beam frequency f = 25 Hz and laser beam power P = 1000 W during a laser pulse with duration t = 1 ms. Subsequently, to analyze the properties of the obtained surface layers, the following tests were performed: scanning electron microscopy, chemical and phase composition analysis, wetting angle tests and roughness tests. The assessment of the impact of the laser modification on the internal stresses of the investigated materials was carried out by comparing the values of the stresses of the laser-modified samples to those of the reference samples. The obtained results showed increased values of tensile stresses after laser modification: the highest value was found for the Ti-6Al-4V alloy at 6.7434 GPa and the lowest for pure grade IV titanium at 3.742 GPa. After laser and heat treatment, a reduction in the stress was observed, together with a significant increase in the hardness of the tested materials, with the highest value for Ti-6Al-4V alloy at 27.723 GPa. This can provide better abrasion resistance and lower long-term toxicity, both of which are desirable when using Ti-6Al-4V and Ti-13Nb-13Zr alloys for implant materials.
A Thermodynamically Consistent Model of Quasibrittle Elastic Damaged Materials Based on a Novel Helmholtz Potential and Dissipation Function
Authors: Kamińska Inez , Szwed Aleksander
Published: October 2021

In the paper, a thermodynamically consistent model of elastic damaged material in the framework of small strain theory is formulated, describing the process of deterioration in quasibrittle materials, concrete in particular. The main goal is to appropriately depict the distinction between material responses in tension and compression. A novel Helmholtz energy and a dissipation potential including three damage parameters are introduced. The Helmholtz function has a continuous first derivative with respect to strain tensor. Based on the assumed functions, the strain–stress relationship, the damage condition, the evolution laws, and the tangent stiffness tensor are derived. The model’s predictions for uniaxial tension, uniaxial compression, uniaxial cyclic compression–tension, and pure shear tests are calculated using Wolfram Mathematica in order to identify the main features of the model and to grasp the physical meaning of an isotropic damage parameter, a tensile damage parameter, and a compressive damage parameter. Their values can be directly bound to changes of secant stiffness and generalized Poisson’s ratio. An interpretation of damage parameters in association with three mechanisms of damage is given. The considered dissipation potential allows a flexible choice of a damage condition. The influence of material parameters included in dissipation function on damage mode interaction is discussed.
The Effect of the Corrosion Medium on Silane Coatings Deposited on Titanium Grade 2 and Titanium Alloy Ti13Nb13Zr
Authors: Kierat Oliwia , Dudek Agata , Adamczyk Lidia
Published: October 2021

The present paper focuses on the fabrication of coatings based on vinyltrimethoxysilane and the influence of various corrosion media on the coatings produced. Coatings were deposited on two substrate materials, namely, titanium Grade 2 and titanium alloy Ti13Nb13Zr, by immersion in a solution containing vinyltrimethoxysilane, anhydrous ethyl alcohol, acetic acid and distilled water. The obtained coatings were characterized in terms of surface morphology, adhesion to the substrate and corrosion resistance. As corrosion solutions, four different simulated physiological fluids, which differed in the contents of individual ions, and a 1 mol dm−3 NaBr solution were used. The chloride ions contained in the simulated physiological fluids did not lead to pitting corrosion of titanium Grade 2 and titanium alloy Ti13Nb13Zr. This investigation shows that titanium undergoes pitting corrosion in a bromide ion medium. It is demonstrated that the investigated coatings slow down corrosion processes in all corrosion media examined.
Aesthetic Outcomes of Early Occlusal Loaded SLA Dental Implants with Hydroxyl Ion Modified Surface—A 12 Months Prospective Study
Authors: Krawiec Maciej , Hadzik Jakub , Olchowy Cyprian , Dominiak Marzena , Kubasiewicz-Ross Paweł
Published: October 2021

Background: Many efforts have been made recently to arrange a newer, more hydrophilic and more osteoconductive implant surface. One of the possible options in this matter is modification with hydroxyl ion. Materials and Methods: Forty implants with the diameters 3.5 and 4.0 mm were inserted as a single missing tooth restoration protocol in the frontal aspect of the maxilla. All implants were loaded early in a 4 week period. Prior to and during the surgery, the following indices were considered: height of keratinized tissue, the thickness of soft tissue, and the initial level of bone tissue. After 12 months, the implant and the tissues in its direct vicinity were evaluated once more with the following indices: marginal bone loss (MBL), height of keratinized tissue (HKT), probing pocket depth (PPD), pink and white aesthetics scores (PES, WES), as well as pain sensations combined with the procedure (VAS). All results were related to the diameter of the implant and thickness of periodontal biotype. Results: High aesthetic outcomes were reported regardless of soft tissue thickness and implant diameter. The VAS score was higher for the 4.0 implant group, and the thickness of soft tissue had no influence on VAS. In case of implantation in thin or soft tissue, higher MBL levels were reported (0.26 mm), while in case of a thick phenotype, MBL was 0.06 mm. Conclusions: Hydrophilic surface implants can be used for a protocol of early functional occlusal loading. The initial thickness of soft tissue does not influence aesthetic outcomes and does not raise pain perception, although it may elevate crestal bone resorption.
Experimental Investigation of Flexural Behavior of Ultra-High-Performance Concrete with Coarse Aggregate-Filled Steel Tubes
Authors: Wu Fanghong , Zeng Yanqin , Li Ben , Lyu Xuetao
Published: October 2021

This paper presents an experimental investigation of flexural behavior of circular ultra-high-performance concrete with coarse aggregate (CA-UHPC)-filled steel tubes (CA-UHPCFSTs). A total of seven flexural members were tested under a four-point bending load. The failure modes, overall deflection curves, moment-versus-curvature relationships, moment-versus-strain curves, strain distribution curves, ductility, flexural stiffness and ultimate flexural capacity were evaluated. The results indicate that the CA-UHPCFSTs under bending behaved in a good ductile manner. The CA-UHPC strength has a limited effect on the ultimate flexural capacity, while the addition of steel fiber can improve the ultimate flexural capacity. Increasing the steel tube thickness leads to higher flexural stiffness and ultimate flexural capacity. There is a significant confinement effect between the steel tube and the CA-UHPC core in the compressive zone and centroidal plane after the specimen enters the elastic-plastic stage, while the confinement effect in the tensile zone is minimal. Moreover, the measured flexural stiffness and ultimate flexural capacity were compared with the predictions using various design specifications. Two empirical formulas for calculating the initial and serviceability-level flexural stiffness of CA-UHPCFSTs are developed. Further research is required to propose the accurate design formula for the ultimate flexural capacity of CA-UHPCFSTs.
EBSD Characterization of the Microstructure of 7A52 Aluminum Alloy Joints Welded by Friction Stir Welding
Authors: Liu Xu , Jia Ruiling , Zhang Huixia , Cheng Wenhua , Zhai Xiwei
Published: October 2021

The microstructure and texture of materials significantly influence the mechanical properties and fracture behavior; the effect of microstructure in different zones of friction stir-welded joints of 7A52 aluminum alloy on fracture behavior was investigated in this paper. The microstructural characteristics of sections of the welded joints were tested using the electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD) technique. The results indicate that the fracture is located at the advancing side of the thermomechanically affected zone (AS-TMAZ) and the stir zone (SZ) interface. The AS-TMAZ microstructure is vastly different from the microstructure and texture of other areas. The grain orientation is disordered, and the grain shape is seriously deformed under the action of stirring force. The grain size grows unevenly under the input of friction heat, resulting in a large amount of recrystallization, and there is a significant difference in the Taylor factor between adjacent grains and the AS-TMAZ–SZ interface. On the contrary, there are fine and uniform equiaxed grains in the nugget zone, the microstructure is uniform, and the Taylor factor is small at adjacent grains. Therefore, the uneven transition of microstructure and texture in the AS-TMAZ and the SZ provide conditions for crack initiation, which become the weak point of mechanical properties.
A Robust and Wearable Triboelectric Tactile Patch as Intelligent Human-Machine Interface
Authors: Hu Zhiyuan , Wang Junpeng , Wang Yan , Wang Chuan , Wang Yawei , Zhang Ziyi , Xu Peng , Zhao Tiancong , Luan Yu , Liu Chang , Qiao Lin , Shu Mingrui , Mi Jianchun , Pan Xinxiang , Xu Minyi
Published: October 2021

The human–machine interface plays an important role in the diversified interactions between humans and machines, especially by swaping information exchange between human and machine operations. Considering the high wearable compatibility and self-powered capability, triboelectric-based interfaces have attracted increasing attention. Herein, this work developed a minimalist and stable interacting patch with the function of sensing and robot controlling based on triboelectric nanogenerator. This robust and wearable patch is composed of several flexible materials, namely polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), nylon, hydrogels electrode, and silicone rubber substrate. A signal-processing circuit was used in this patch to convert the sensor signal into a more stable signal (the deviation within 0.1 V), which provides a more effective method for sensing and robot control in a wireless way. Thus, the device can be used to control the movement of robots in real-time and exhibits a good stable performance. A specific algorithm was used in this patch to convert the 1D serial number into a 2D coordinate system, so that the click of the finger can be converted into a sliding track, so as to achieve the trajectory generation of a robot in a wireless way. It is believed that the device-based human–machine interaction with minimalist design has great potential in applications for contact perception, 2D control, robotics, and wearable electronics.
Investigation on Dynamic Characteristics of AlGaN/GaN Lateral Schottky Barrier Diode
Authors: Zhang Haitao , Kang Xuanwu , Zheng Yingkui , Wu Hao , Wei Ke , Liu Xinyu , Ye Tianchun , Jin Zhi
Published: October 2021

This work investigates the transient characteristics of an AlGaN/GaN lateral Schottky barrier diode (SBD) and its recovery process with a dedicated dynamic measurement system. Both static and dynamic characteristics were measured, analyzed with the consideration of acceptor/donor traps in the C-doped buffer and GaN channel, and verified by Silvaco TCAD (technology computer aided design) simulations. The energy band, electric field, and electron concentration were monitored in the transient simulation to study the origin of the current collapse in the SBD. Using the verified model, the impact of carbon doping concentration in the buffer and the thickness of the unintentionally doped (UID) GaN channel in the transient behavior was estimated. Several observations were revealed. Firstly, the traps in the GaN channel and buffer layer have a significant impact on the current collapse of the device. A severe deterioration of current collapse can be observed in the SBDs with increasing density of acceptor-like traps. Secondly, the current collapse increases with the thinner UID GaN channel layer. This well-performed simulation model shows promise to be utilized for the dynamic performance optimization of GaN lateral devices.
Effect of Punch Surface Grooves on Microformability of AA6063 Backward Microextrusion
Authors: Funazuka Tatsuya , Dohda Kuniaki , Shiratori Tomomi , Hiramiya Ryo , Watanabe Ikumu
Published: October 2021

In order to apply conventional forming processes at the micro scale, the size effects caused by material properties and frictional effects must be taken into account. In this research, the effects of tool surface properties such as punch surface grooves on microextrudability, assessed using extrusion force, shape of the extrusion, and Vickers hardness, were investigated using an AA6063 billet. Microscale grooves of 5 to 10 µm were fabricated on the punch surface. The extrusion force increased rapidly as the stroke progressed for all the grooves. Comparing the product geometries showed that, the smaller the groove size, the lower the adhesion and the longer the backward extrusion length. The results of material analysis using EBSD showed that a 5 µm groove depth punch improved the material flowability and uniformly introduced more strain. On the other hand, material flowability was reduced and strain was applied nonuniformly when a mirror-finish tool was used. Therefore, the tribology between the tool and the material was controlled by changing the surface properties of the punch to improve formability.
Computational Assessment of Thermal and Solute Mechanisms in Carreau–Yasuda Hybrid Nanoparticles Involving Soret and Dufour Effects over Porous Surface
Authors: Hou Enran , Wang Fuzhang , El-Zahar Essam Roshdy , Nazir Umar , Sohail Muhammad
Published: October 2021

Engineers, scientists and mathematicians are greatly concerned about the thermal stability/instability of any physical system. Current contemplation discusses the role of the Soret and Dufour effects in hydro-magnetized Carreau–Yasuda liquid passed over a permeable stretched surface. Several important effects were considered while modelling the thermal transport, including Joule heating, viscous dissipation, and heat generation/absorption. Mass transportation is presented in the presence of a chemical reaction. Different nanoparticle types were mixed in the Carreau–Yasuda liquid in order to study thermal performance. Initially, governing laws were modelled in the form of PDEs. Suitable transformation was engaged for conversion into ODEs and then the resulting ODEs were handled via FEM (Finite Element Method). Grid independent analysis was performed to determine the effectiveness of the chosen methodology. Several important physical effects were explored by augmenting the values of the influential parameters. Heat and mass transfer rates were computed against different parameters and discussed in detail.
Bio-Mechanism of Catechin as Pheromone Signal Inhibitor: Prediction of Antibacterial Agent Action Mode by In Vitro and In Silico Study
Authors: Kurnia Dikdik , Ramadhanty Zenika Febian , Ardani Aprilina Mora , Zainuddin Achmad , Dharsono Hendra Dian Adhita , Satari Mieke Hemiawati
Published: October 2021

The utilization of medicinal plants has long been explored for the discovery of antibacterial agents and the most effective mechanisms or new targets that can prevent and control the spread of antibiotic resistance. One kind of bacterial cell wall inhibition is the inactivation of the MurA enzyme that contributes to the formation of peptidoglycan. Another approach is to interfere with the cell–cell communication of bacteria called the Quorum sensing (QS) system. The blocking of auto-inducer such as gelatinase biosynthesis-activating pheromone (GBAP) can also suppress the virulence factors of gelatinase and serine protease. This research, in particular, aims to analyze lead compounds as antibacterial and anti-QS agents from Gambir (Uncaria gambir Roxburgh) through protein inhibition by in silico study. Antibacterial agents were isolated by bioactivity-guided isolation using a combination of chromatographic methods, and their chemical structures were determined by spectroscopic analysis methods. The in vitro antibacterial activity was evaluated by disc diffusion methods to determine inhibitory values. Meanwhile, in the in silico analysis, the compound of Uncaria gambir was used as ligand and compared with fosfomycin, ambuic acid, quercetin, and taxifolin as the standard ligand. These ligands were attached to MurA, GBAP, gelatinase, and serine proteases using Autodock Vina in PyRx 0.8 followed by PYMOL for combining the ligand conformation and proteins. plus programs to explore the complex, and visualized by Discovery Studio 2020 Client program. The antibacterial agent was identified as catechin that showed inhibitory activity against Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212 with inhibition zones of 11.70 mm at 10%, together with MIC and MBC values of 0.63 and 1.25 μg/mL, respectively. In the in silico study, the molecular interaction of catechin with MurA, GBAP, and gelatinase proteins showed good binding energy compared with two positive controls, namely fosfomycin and ambuic acid. It is better to use catechin–MurA (−8.5 Kcal/mol) and catechin–gelatinase (−7.8 Kcal/mol), as they have binding energies which are not marginally different from quercetin and taxifolin. On the other hand, the binding energy of serine protease is lower than quercetin, taxifolin, and ambuic acid. Based on the data, catechin has potency as an antibacterial through the inhibition of GBAP proteins, gelatinase, and serine protease that play a role in the QS system. This is the first discovery of the potential of catechin as an alternative antibacterial agent with an effective mechanism to prevent and control oral disease affected by antibiotic resistance.
Efficacy of Precocene I from Desmosstachya bipinnata as an Effective Bioactive Molecules against the Spodoptera litura Fab. and Its Impact on Eisenia fetida Savigny
Authors: Sundar Narayanan Shyam , Karthi Sengodan , Sivanesh Haridoss , Stanley-Raja Vethamonickam , Chanthini Kanagaraj Muthu-Pandian , Ramasubramanian Ramakrishnan , Ramkumar Govindaraju , Ponsankar Athirstam , Narayanan Kilapavoor Raman , Vasantha-Srinivasan Prabhakaran , Alkahtani Jawaher , Alwahibi Mona S. , Hunter Wayne Brian , Senthil-Nathan Sengottayan , Patcharin Krutmuang , Abdel-Megeed Ahmed , Shawer Rady , Ghaith Aml
Published: October 2021

The sustainability of agroecosystems are maintained with agro-chemicals. However, after more than 80 years of intensive use, many pests and pathogens have developed resistance to the currently used chemistries. Thus, we explored the isolation and bioactivity of a chemical compound, Precocene I, isolated from the perennial grass, Desmosstachya bipinnata (L.) Stapf. Fractions produced from chloroform extractions showed suppressive activity on larvae of Spodoptera litura (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), the Oriental armyworm. Column chromatography analyses identified Precocene I confirmed using FTIR, HPLC and NMR techniques. The bioactivity of the plant-extracted Dp-Precocene I was compared to a commercially produced Precocene I standard. The percentage of mortality observed in insects fed on plant tissue treated with 60 ppm Db-Precocene I was 97, 87 and 81, respectively, for the second, third and fourth instar larvae. The LC50 value of third instars was 23.2 ppm. The percentages of survival, pupation, fecundity and egg hatch were altered at sub-lethal concentrations of Db-Precocene I (2, 4, 6 and 8 ppm, sprays on castor leaves). The observed effects were negatively correlated with concentration, with a decrease in effects as concentrations increased. Distinct changes in feeding activity and damage to gut tissues were observed upon histological examination of S. litura larvae after the ingestion of Db-Precocene I treatments. Comparative analyses of mortality on a non-target organism, the earthworm, Eisenia fetida, at equal concentrations of Precocene I and two chemical pesticides (cypermethrin and monocrotophos) produced mortality only with the chemical pesticide treatments. These results of Db-Precocene I as a highly active bioactive compound support further research to develop production from the grass D. bipinnata as an affordable resource for Precocene-I-based insecticides.
Green Synthesis of Gold Nanoparticles Using Plant Extracts as Beneficial Prospect for Cancer Theranostics
Authors: Bharadwaj Kaushik Kumar , Rabha Bijuli , Pati Siddhartha , Sarkar Tanmay , Choudhury Bhabesh Kumar , Barman Arpita , Bhattacharjya Dorothy , Srivastava Ankit , Baishya Debabrat , Edinur Hisham Atan , Abdul Kari Zulhisyam , Mohd Noor Noor Haslina
Published: October 2021

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have been widely explored and are well-known for their medical applications. Chemical and physical synthesis methods are a way to make AuNPs. In any case, the hunt for other more ecologically friendly and cost-effective large-scale technologies, such as environmentally friendly biological processes known as green synthesis, has been gaining interest by worldwide researchers. The international focus on green nanotechnology research has resulted in various nanomaterials being used in environmentally and physiologically acceptable applications. Several advantages over conventional physical and chemical synthesis (simple, one-step approach to synthesize, cost-effectiveness, energy efficiency, and biocompatibility) have drawn scientists’ attention to exploring the green synthesis of AuNPs by exploiting plants’ secondary metabolites. Biogenic approaches, mainly the plant-based synthesis of metal nanoparticles, have been chosen as the ideal strategy due to their environmental and in vivo safety, as well as their ease of synthesis. In this review, we reviewed the use of green synthesized AuNPs in the treatment of cancer by utilizing phytochemicals found in plant extracts. This article reviews plant-based methods for producing AuNPs, characterization methods of synthesized AuNPs, and discusses their physiochemical properties. This study also discusses recent breakthroughs and achievements in using green synthesized AuNPs in cancer treatment and different mechanisms of action, such as reactive oxygen species (ROS), mediated mitochondrial dysfunction and caspase activation, leading to apoptosis, etc., for their anticancer and cytotoxic effects. Understanding the mechanisms underlying AuNPs therapeutic efficacy will aid in developing personalized medicines and treatments for cancer as a potential cancer therapeutic strategy.
Charge Transfer Complexes of 1,3,6-Trinitro-9,10-phenanthrenequinone with Polycyclic Aromatic Compounds
Authors: Linko Roman , Ryabov Michael , Strashnov Pavel , Dorovatovskii Pavel , Khrustalev Victor , Davydov Victor
Published: October 2021

Understanding the interactions of organic donor and acceptor molecules in binary associates is crucial for design and control of their functions. Herein, we carried out a theoretical study on the properties of charge transfer complexes of 1,3,6-trinitro-9,10-phenanthrenequinone (PQ) with 23 aromatic π-electron donors. Density functional theory (DFT) was employed to obtain geometries, frontier orbital energy levels and amounts of charge transfer in the ground and first excited states. For the most effective donors, namely, dibenzotetrathiafulvalene, pentacene, tetrathiafulvalene, 5,10-dimethylphenazine, and tetramethyl-p-phenylenediamine, the amount of charge transfer in the ground state was shown to be 0.134−0.240 e−. Further, a novel charge transfer complex of PQ with anthracene was isolated in crystalline form and its molecular and crystal structure elucidated by single-crystal synchrotron X-ray diffraction.
Pressurized Hot Water Extraction and Bio-Hydrogels Formulation with Aristotelia chilensis [Mol.] Stuntz Leaves
Authors: Bianchi Audrey , R. Rivera-Tovar Pamela , Sanz Vanesa , Ferreira-Anta Tania , Torres María Dolores , Pérez-Correa José Ricardo , Domínguez Herminia
Published: October 2021

Aristotelia chilensis is a plant rich in phenolics and other bioactive compounds. Their leaves are discarded as waste in the maqui berry industry. A new application of these wastes is intended by the recovery of bioactive compounds using pressurized hot water extraction with conventional or microwave heating. Both technologies have been selected for their green character regarding the type of solvent and the high efficiency in shorter operation times. Extractions were performed in the temperature range 140–200 °C with a solid/liquid ratio of 1:15 (w:w). The extracts’ total phenolic content, antioxidant capacity, and saccharides content obtained with both heating methods were measured. Additionally, the thermo-rheological properties of the gelling matrix enriched with these extracts were analyzed. Optimum conditions for lyophilized extracts were found with conventional heating, at 140 °C and 20 min extraction; 250.0 mg GAE/g dry extract and 1321.5 mg Trolox/g dry extract. Close to optimum performance was achieved with microwave heating in a fraction of the time (5 min) at 160 °C (extraction), yielding extracts with 231.9 mg GAE/g dry extract of total phenolics and antiradical capacity equivalent to 1176.3 mg Trolox/g dry extract. Slightly higher antioxidant values were identified for spray-dried extracts (between 5% for phenolic content and 2.5% for antioxidant capacity). The extracts obtained with both heating methods at 200 °C contained more than 20% oligosaccharides, primarily glucose. All the formulated gelling matrices enriched with the obtained extracts displayed intermediate gel strength properties. The tested technologies efficiently recovered highly active antioxidant extracts, rich in polyphenolics, and valuable for formulating gelling matrices with potential applicability in foods and other products.
Two-Dimensional TeB Structures with Anisotropic Carrier Mobility and Tunable Bandgap
Authors: Zhang Yukai , Qu Xin , Yang Lihua , Zhong Xin , Wang Dandan , Wang Jian , Sun Baiyang , Liu Chang , Lv Jian , Yang Jinghai
Published: October 2021

Two-dimensional (2D) semiconductors with desirable bandgaps and high carrier mobility have great potential in electronic and optoelectronic applications. In this work, we proposed α-TeB and β-TeB monolayers using density functional theory (DFT) combined with the particle swarm-intelligent global structure search method. The high dynamical and thermal stabilities of two TeB structures indicate high feasibility for experimental synthesis. The electronic structure calculations show that the two structures are indirect bandgap semiconductors with bandgaps of 2.3 and 2.1 eV, respectively. The hole mobility of the β-TeB sheet is up to 6.90 × 102 cm2 V−1 s−1. By reconstructing the two structures, we identified two new horizontal and lateral heterostructures, and the lateral heterostructure presents a direct band gap, indicating more probable applications could be further explored for TeB sheets.
Taxonomic Insights and Its Type Cyclization Correlation of Volatile Sesquiterpenes in Vitex Species and Potential Source Insecticidal Compounds: A Review
Authors: Barreto Ighor C. , de Almeida Anderson S. , Sena Filho José G.
Published: October 2021

Sesquiterpenes (SS) are secondary metabolites formed by the bonding of 3 isoprene (C5) units. They play an important role in the defense and signaling of plants to adapt to the environment, face stress, and communicate with the outside world, and their evolutionary history is closely related to their physiological functions. This review considers their presence and extensively summarizes the 156 sesquiterpenes identified in Vitextaxa, emphasizing those with higher concentrations and frequency among species and correlating with the insecticidal activities and defensive responses reported in the literature. In addition, we classify the SS based on their chemical structures and addresses cyclization in biosynthetic origin. Most relevant sesquiterpenes of the Vitex genus are derived from the germacredienyl cation mainly via bicyclogermacrene and germacrene C, giving rise to aromadrendanes, a skeleton with the highest number of representative compounds in this genus, and 6,9-guaiadiene, respectively, indicating the production of 1.10-cyclizing sesquiterpene synthases. These enzymes can play an important role in the chemosystematics of the genus from their corresponding routes and cyclizations, constituting a new approach to chemotaxonomy. In conclusion, this review is a compilation of detailed information on the profile of sesquiterpene in the Vitex genus and, thus, points to new unexplored horizons for future research.
Magnetization Switching in the GdFeCo Films with In-Plane Anisotropy via Femtosecond Laser Pulses
Authors: Ignatyeva Daria O. , Kapralov Pavel O. , Prabhakara Kiran Horabail , Yoshikawa Hiroki , Tsukamoto Arata , Belotelov Vladimir I.
Published: October 2021

Ferrimagnetic rare-earth substituted metal alloys GdFeCo were shown to exhibit the phenomenon of all-optical magnetization switching via femtosecond laser pulses. All-optical magnetization switching has been comprehensively investigated in out-of-plane magnetized GdFeCo films; however, the films with the in-plane magnetic anisotropy have not yet been studied in detail. We report experimental observations of the magnetization switching of in-plane magnetized GdFeCo films by means of the femtosecond laser pulses in the presence of a small magnetic field of about 40 µT. The switching effect has a threshold both in the applied magnetic field and in the light intensity.
Wood Extractives of Silver Fir and Their Antioxidant and Antifungal Properties
Authors: Vek Viljem , Keržič Eli , Poljanšek Ida , Eklund Patrik , Humar Miha , Oven Primož
Published: October 2021

The chemical composition of extractives in the sapwood (SW), heartwood (HW), knotwood (KW), and branchwood (BW of silver fir (Abies alba Mill.) was analyzed, and their antifungal and antioxidant properties were studied. In addition, the variability of extractives content in a centripetal direction, i.e., from the periphery of the stem towards the pith, was investigated. The extracts were analyzed chemically with gravimetry, spectrophotometry, and chromatography. The antifungal and antioxidative properties of the extracts were evaluated by the agar well diffusion method and the diphenyl picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging method. Average amounts of hydrophilic extractives were higher in KW (up to 210.4 mg/g) and BW (148.6 mg/g) than in HW (34.1 mg/g) and SW (14.8 mg/g). Extractives identified included lignans (isolariciresinol, lariciresinol, secoisolariciresinol, pinoresinol, matairesinol) phenolic acids (homovanillic acid, coumaric acid, ferulic acid), and flavonoids epicatechin, taxifolin, quercetin). Secoisolariciresinol was confirmed to be the predominant compound in the KW (29.8 mg/g) and BW (37.6 mg/g) extracts. The largest amount of phenolic compounds was extracted from parts of knots (281.7 mg/g) embedded in the sapwood and from parts of branches (258.9 mg/g) adjacent to the stem. HW contained more lignans in its older sections. Hydrophilic extracts from knots and branches inhibited the growth of wood-decaying fungi and molds. KW and BW extracts were better free radical scavengers than HW extracts. The results of the biological activity tests suggest that the protective function of phenolic extracts in silver fir wood can also be explained by their antioxidative properties. The results of this study describe BW as a potential source of phenolic extractives in silver fir.
Synthesis, Phase Behavior and Computational Simulations of a Pyridyl-Based Liquid Crystal System
Authors: Alamro Fowzia S. , Ahmed Hoda A. , Popoola Saheed A. , Aboelnaga Asmaa
Published: October 2021

A homologous set of liquid crystalline materials (Tn) bearing Schiff base/ester linkages were prepared and investigated via experimental and theoretical techniques. Terminal flexible groups of different chain lengths were connected to the end of phenylbenzoate unit while the other end of molecules was attached to the heterocyclic pyridine moiety. The molecular structures of the designed molecules were evaluated by FT-IR, NMR spectroscopic analyses, whereas their mesomorphic properties were investigated by polarized optical microscopy (POM) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). They all exhibited dimorphic properties with the exception of the members having the shortest and longest terminal flexible chains (n = 6 and 16), which were monomorphic. The T16 derivative was further found possessing purely smectic A (SmA) mesophase while others have their lengths covered by nematic (N) phase. Moreover, the computational evaluation of the azomethine derivatives was carried out using a DFT approach. The polarity of the investigated derivatives was predicted to be appreciably sensitive to the size of the system. Furthermore, the Frontier molecular orbitals analysis revealed various distributions of electron clouds at HOMO and LUMO levels.
Neuroprotective Effects of B-Type Cinnamon Procyanidin Oligomers on MPP+-Induced Apoptosis in a Cell Culture Model of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Xu Qi , Chen Ziyu , Zhu Borong , Li Yiming , Reddy Manju B. , Liu Huilin , Dang Guodong , Jia Qi , Wu Xiaojun
Published: October 2021

Cinnamon procyanidin oligomers (CPOs) are water-soluble components extracted from cinnamon. This study aims to explore the neuroprotection of B-type CPO (CPO-B) against 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+)-mediated cytotoxicity and the molecular mechanisms underlying its protection. The results demonstrated that CPO-B showed protection by increasing cell viability, attenuating an intracellular level of reactive oxygen species, downregulating cleaved caspase-3 expression, and upregulating the Bcl-2/Bax ratio. Moreover, CPO-B completely blocked the dephosphorylation of extracellular, signal-regulated kinase 1 and 2 (Erk1/2) caused by MPP+. Treatment with an Erk1/2 inhibitor, SCH772984, significantly abolished the neuroprotection of CPO-B against MPP+. Taken together, we demonstrate that CPO-B from cinnamon bark provided protection against MPP+ in cultured SH-SY5Y cells, and the potential mechanisms may be attributed to its ability to modulate the dysregulation between pro-apoptotic and anti-apoptotic proteins through the Erk1/2 signaling pathway. Our findings suggest that the addition of cinnamon to food or supplements might benefit patients with PD.
Prevalence and Associated Factors of Coexistence of Malnutrition and Sarcopenia in Geriatric Rehabilitation
Authors: Nishioka Shinta , Matsushita Tatsuya , Yamanouchi Anna , Okazaki Yuka , Oishi Kana , Nishioka Emi , Mori Natsumi , Tokunaga Yoshiharu , Onizuka Shinya
Published: October 2021

Malnutrition and sarcopenia often coexist in rehabilitation patients, although they are often overlooked and undertreated in clinical practice. This cross-sectional study aimed to clarify the prevalence of the coexistence of malnutrition and sarcopenia (Co-MS) and its associated factors in convalescent rehabilitation wards in Japan. Consecutive patients aged ≥ 65 years in convalescent rehabilitation wards between November 2018 and October 2020 were included. Malnutrition and sarcopenia were determined by the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM) criteria and the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia (AWGS 2019) criteria, respectively. Patients who presented both with malnutrition and sarcopenia were classified as Co-MS. Potentially associated factors included age, sex, days from onset to admission of rehabilitation wards, reason for admission, pre-morbid functional dependency, comorbidity, activities of daily living, swallowing ability, and oral function and hygiene. The prevalence of malnutrition, sarcopenia, and Co-MS was calculated. Binary logistic regression analyses were performed to compute odds ratios (ORs) and the 95% confidence interval (CI) of possible associated factors for each condition. Overall, 601 patients were eligible for the analysis (median 80 years old, 355 female patients, 70% cerebrovascular disease). Co-MS, malnutrition, and sarcopenia were found in 23.5%, 29.0%, and 62.4% of the enrolled patients, respectively. After adjustment, onset–admission interval (OR = 1.04; 95% CI = 1.02 to 1.06), hospital-associated deconditioning (OR = 4.62; 95% CI = 1.13 to 18.8), and swallowing ability (Food Intake LEVEL Scale) (OR = 0.83; 95% CI = 0.73 to 0.93) were identified as independent explanatory factors of Co-MS. In conclusion, Co-MS was prevalent in geriatric rehabilitation patients; thus, healthcare professionals should be aware of the associated factors to detect the geriatric rehabilitation patients who are at risk of both malnutrition and sarcopenia, and to provide appropriate treatments.
Breastfed and Formula-Fed Infants: Need of a Different Complementary Feeding Model?
Authors: Caroli Margherita , Vania Andrea , Tomaselli Maria Anna , Scotese Immacolata , Tezza Giovanna , Verga Maria Carmen , Di Mauro Giuseppe , Antignani Angelo , Miniello Andrea , Bergamini Marcello
Published: October 2021

Suboptimal nutrient quality/quantity during complementary feeding (CF) can impact negatively on infants’ healthy growth, even with adequate energy intake. CF must supplement at best human milk (HM) or formulas, which show nutritional differences. Considering this, a differentiated CF is probably advisable to correctly satisfy the different nutritional needs. To assess whether current needs at 6–24 months of age can still be met by one single CF scheme or different schemes are needed for breastfed vs. formula/cow’s milk (CM) fed infants, protein, iron and calcium intakes were assessed from daily menus using the same type and amount of solid food, leaving same amounts of HM and follow-up formula at 9 and again 18 months of age, when unmodified CM was added. Depending on the child’s age, calcium- and iron-fortified cereals or common retail foods were used. The single feeding scheme keeps protein intake low but higher than recommended, in HM-fed children while in formula/CM-fed ones, it achieves much higher protein intakes. Iron Population Recommended Intake (PRI) and calcium Adequate Intakes (AI) are met at the two ages only when a formula is used; otherwise, calcium-fortified cereals are needed. ESPGHAN statements on the futility of proposing different CF schemes according to the milk type fed do not allow to fully meet the nutritional recommendations issued by major Agencies/Organizations/Societies for all children of these age groups.