bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The LAMMER Kinase MoKns1 Regulates Growth, Conidiation and Pathogenicity in Magnaporthe oryzae
Authors: Li Lin , Zhu Xue-Ming , Wu Jia-Qi , Cao Na , Bao Jian-Dong , Liu Xiao-Hong , Lin Fu-Cheng
Published: July 2022

Magnaporthe oryzae is an important pathogen that causes a devastating disease in rice. It has been reported that the dual-specificity LAMMER kinase is conserved from yeast to animal species and has a variety of functions. However, the functions of the LAMMER kinase have not been reported in M. oryzae. In this study, we identified the unique LAMMER kinase MoKns1 and analyzed its function in M. oryzae. We found that in a MoKNS1 deletion mutant, growth and conidiation were primarily decreased, and pathogenicity was almost completely lost. Furthermore, our results found that MoKns1 is involved in autophagy. The ΔMokns1 mutant was sensitive to rapamycin, and MoKns1 interacted with the autophagy-related protein MoAtg18. Compared with the wild-type strain 70−15, autophagy was significantly enhanced in the ΔMokns1 mutant. In addition, we also found that MoKns1 regulated DNA damage stress pathways, and the ΔMokns1 mutant was more sensitive to hydroxyurea (HU) and methyl methanesulfonate (MMS) compared to the wild-type strain 70−15. The expression of genes related to DNA damage stress pathways in the ΔMokns1 mutant was significantly different from that in the wild-type strain. Our results demonstrate that MoKns1 is an important pathogenic factor in M. oryzae involved in regulating autophagy and DNA damage response pathways, thus affecting virulence. This research on M. oryzae pathogenesis lays a foundation for the prevention and control of M. oryzae.
Validation of an Optogenetic Approach to the Study of Olfactory Behavior in the T-Maze of Drosophila melanogaster Adults
Authors: Coya Ruth , Martin Fernando , Calvin-Cejudo Laura , Gomez-Diaz Carolina , Alcorta Esther
Published: July 2022

Optogenetics enables the alteration of neural activity using genetically targeted expression of light activated proteins for studying behavioral circuits in several species including Drosophila. The main idea behind this approach is to replace the native behavioral stimulus by the light-induced electrical activation of different points of the circuit. Therefore, its effects on subsequent steps of the circuit or on the final behavior can be analyzed. However, the use of optogenetics to dissect the receptor elements of the adult olfactory behavior presents a challenge due to one additional factor: Most odorants elicit attraction or avoidance depending on their concentration; this complicates the representative replacement of odor activation of olfactory sensory neurons (OSNs) by light. Here, we explore a dual excitation model where the subject is responding to odors while the OSNs are optogenetically activated. Thereby, we can assess if and how the olfactory behavior is modified. We measure the effects of light excitation on the response to several odorant concentrations. The dose-response curve of these flies still depends on odor concentration but with reduced sensitivity compared to olfactory stimulation alone. These results are consistent with behavioral tests performed with a background odor and suggest an additive effect of light and odor excitation on OSNs.
Factors Associated with Failed Trial of Labor after Cesarean, among Women with Twin Gestation—A Multicenter Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Peled Tzuria , Sela Hen Y. , Joseph Jordanna , Martinotti Tal , Grisaru-Granovsky Sorina , Rottenstreich Misgav
Published: July 2022

Objective: Twin trial of labor after a cesarean section (TOLAC) is associated with a lower success rate of vaginal delivery than singleton TOLAC, and a higher rate of adverse outcomes in comparison to an elective repeat cesarean delivery. This study aims to investigate the factors associated with failed TOLAC, among women with twin gestation. Study design: A multicenter retrospective cohort study was undertaken. All women with twin pregnancies attempting a trial of labor after a previous cesarean in two university-affiliated obstetrical centers, between 2005 and 2021 were included. The study population included women with a twin gestation where twin A presented in the vertex position, a single previous low segment transverse section, and those who were eligible for a vaginal delivery. Labor, maternal, and neonatal characteristics were compared. A univariate analysis was undertaken, followed by multivariate analysis (aORs; [95% CI]). Results: A total of 160 women attempting a twin TOLAC were included. Vaginal birth after cesarean was achieved in 86.3% of these cases. Assisted reproductive technology (ART), the lack of oxytocin use for augmentation during labor, the lack of epidural analgesia, and preterm birth before 34, 32, and 28 gestational weeks were all found to be associated with failed TOLAC. In the multivariate analysis, cervical dilation on admission (aOR 0.6 [0.40–0.82], p < 0.01), no use of oxytocin (aOR 5.2 [1.36–19.73], p = 0.02), gestational age at delivery (aOR 0.8 [0.65–1.00], p = 0.047) and lack of epidural analgesia (aOR 4.5 [1.01–20.16], p = 0.049), were all found to be significantly associated with failed TOLAC. Conclusion: In the investigated population of women with twins undergoing TOLAC, the use of epidural analgesia, the use of oxytocin and increased cervical dilation to the delivery room are associated with a higher rate of vaginal delivery, and may reduce the risk of repeat cesarean delivery.
Comparison of Intense Pulsed Light Therapy on Patients with Meibomian Gland Dysfunction Using AQUA CEL and M22 Devices
Authors: Fukuoka Shima , Arita Reiko
Published: July 2022

The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy of Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy for meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) using the new AQUA CEL (AC, Jeisys) device and the traditional M22 (Lumenis) device. A total of 59 eyes of 59 patients with MGD (12 men and 47 women, mean age 49 ± 12 years) were enrolled. They randomly received four sessions of IPL therapy every three weeks either with AC (30 eyes) or M22 (29 eyes). Standard Patient Evaluation of Eye Dryness (SPEED) questionnaire score, noninvasive breakup time (NIBUT), lid margin abnormalities, corneal and conjunctival fluorescein staining, fluorescein breakup time (FBUT), Schirmer’s test, meiboscore and meibum grade were evaluated before treatment and one month after treatment. Before IPL, no significant differences were seen in age, gender, or measured parameters between the AC and M22 groups (p > 0.05, respectively). SPEED score, NIBUT, lid margin abnormalities, fluorescein staining, FBUT, and meibum grade improved significantly in both groups after IPL compared to before IPL (p < 0.001, respectively). There were no significant differences in measured parameters between the two groups after IPL (p > 0.05, respectively). IPL therapy with AC and M22 devices has been shown to be equally effective for the treatment of MGD.
Early Effects of Elexacaftor-Tezacaftor-Ivacaftor Therapy on Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Patients with Cystic Fibrosis and Advanced Lung Disease
Authors: Macconi Letizia , Galici Valeria , Di Maurizio Marco , Rossi Enrica , Taccetti Giovanni , Terlizzi Vito
Published: July 2022

This is a prospective, observational study involving three Cystic Fibrosis (CF) adult patients, evaluating the changes in chest magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) three months after the start of elexacaftor/tezacaftor and ivacaftor therapy. MRI showed a drastic reduction in mucus plugging and bronchial wall thickening, with an improvement in the diffusion-weighted MRI score. Similarly, a marked improvement in spirometric parameters, nutritional status, and sweat chloride was observed. Our preliminary data confirm that chest MRI could be a useful tool to assess disease progression in CF patients on modulatory drug therapy.
Sex/Gender- and Age-Related Differences in β-Adrenergic Receptor Signaling in Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Liccardo Daniela , Arosio Beatrice , Corbi Graziamaria , Cannavo Alessandro
Published: July 2022

Sex differences in cardiovascular disease (CVD) are often recognized from experimental and clinical studies examining the prevalence, manifestations, and response to therapies. Compared to age-matched men, women tend to have reduced CV risk and a better prognosis in the premenopausal period. However, with menopause, this risk increases exponentially, surpassing that of men. Although several mechanisms have been provided, including sex hormones, an emerging role in these sex differences has been suggested for β-adrenergic receptor (β-AR) signaling. Importantly, β-ARs are the most important G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), expressed in almost all the cell types of the CV system, and involved in physiological and pathophysiological processes. Consistent with their role, for decades, βARs have been considered the first targets for rational drug design to fight CVDs. Of note, β-ARs are seemingly associated with different CV outcomes in females compared with males. In addition, even if there is a critical inverse correlation between β-AR responsiveness and aging, it has been reported that gender is crucially involved in this age-related effect. This review will discuss how β-ARs impact the CV risk and response to anti-CVD therapies, also concerning sex and age. Further, we will explore how estrogens impact β-AR signaling in women.
Lung Volume Calculation in Preclinical MicroCT: A Fast Geometrical Approach
Authors: Camara Juan Antonio , Pujol Anna , Jimenez Juan Jose , Donate Jaime , Ferrer Marina , Vande Velde Greetje
Published: July 2022

In this study, we present a time-efficient protocol for thoracic volume calculation as a proxy for total lung volume. We hypothesize that lung volume can be calculated indirectly from this thoracic volume. We compared the measured thoracic volume with manually segmented and automatically thresholded lung volumes, with manual segmentation as the gold standard. A linear regression formula was obtained and used for calculating the theoretical lung volume. This volume was compared with the gold standard volumes. In healthy animals, thoracic volume was 887.45 mm3, manually delineated lung volume 554.33 mm3 and thresholded aerated lung volume 495.38 mm3 on average. Theoretical lung volume was 554.30 mm3. Finally, the protocol was applied to three animal models of lung pathology (lung metastasis and transgenic primary lung tumor and fungal infection). In confirmed pathologic animals, thoracic volumes were: 893.20 mm3, 860.12 and 1027.28 mm3. Manually delineated volumes were 640.58, 503.91 and 882.42 mm3, respectively. Thresholded lung volumes were 315.92 mm3, 408.72 and 236 mm3, respectively. Theoretical lung volume resulted in 635.28, 524.30 and 863.10.42 mm3. No significant differences were observed between volumes. This confirmed the potential use of this protocol for lung volume calculation in pathologic models.
Acoustic Delicing of Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar): Fish Welfare and Salmon Lice (Lepeophtheirus salmonis) Dynamics
Authors: Hjelle Bibbi Maria Kállay , Imsland Albert Kjartan Dagbjartarson , Balseiro Pablo Vigo , Handeland Sigurd Olav
Published: July 2022

Acoustic lice treatment (AcuLice) is a newly developed system, which uses a composite acoustic sound image with low-frequency sound to remove salmon lice (Lepeophtheirus salmonis) from Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar). This field study documents the stress effects on Atlantic salmon and the effect on salmon lice dynamics during large-scale use of the AcuLice system. The effect of the AcuLice treatment on salmon lice dynamics was measured by weekly salmon lice counting at the facilities from mid-summer 2019 to late-spring 2020. The number of salmon lice treatments in the same period was also compared to a reference group. In addition, the number of weeks until the first salmon lice treatment (mechanical treatment) was compared between the two groups. Apart from a slight increase in plasma glucose, no significant differences were observed in the primary, secondary, or tertiary stress responses measured. For the mature female salmon lice, a significantly lower number (mean ± SEM) was shown for the AcuLice group (0.24 ± 0.03) compared to the reference group (0.44 ± 0.04). In addition, a lower number (mean ± SEM) of salmon lice treatments and a longer production period before the first salmon lice treatment occurred was observed at the AcuLice facilities (33.2 ± 3 weeks) compared to the reference facilities (20.3 ± 2 weeks). These data suggest that the use of the AcuLice system reduces the need for traditional salmon lice treatments with no added stress to the fish.
Study of Free Oscillations of Bays in the Northwestern Part of Posyet Bay
Authors: Chupin Vladimir , Dolgikh Grigory , Dolgikh Stanislav , Smirnov Sergey
Published: July 2022

To study the specific features of free surface oscillations in the northwestern part of Posyet Bay (the Sea of Japan), a series of experimental works using an installation with a laser meter for measuring hydrosphere pressure variations were carried out in 2012 and 2014. In the course of the joint analysis, measurement results for oscillations with periods of 10–30 min and the results of calculations using a numerical model of shallow water with a difference approximation on an irregular triangular space grid, datasets of the space–time parameters for the resonance oscillations of the studied water area were obtained. The results of the numerical simulations confirm the manifestation of the resonance properties of Novgorodskaya, Expedicii, and Reyd Pallada Bays water areas on the oscillations singled out during the experimental studies. The positions of the peaks on the model resonance curves are consistent with the positions of the clearly pronounced peaks of the energy spectrum in the field data.
Synthesis, Antifungal Activity, Cytotoxicity and QSAR Study of Camphor Derivatives
Authors: Duan Xinying , Zhang Li , Si Hongyan , Song Jie , Wang Peng , Chen Shangxing , Luo Hai , Rao Xiaoping , Wang Zongde , Liao Shengliang
Published: July 2022

Control of fungal phytopathogens affecting crops and woodlands is an important goal in environmental management and the maintenance of food security. This work describes the synthesis of 37 camphor derivatives, of which 27 were new compounds. Their antifungal effects on six fungi were evaluated in vitro. Compounds 3a, 4a and 5k showed strong antifungal activity against Trametes versicolor, with EC50 values of 0.43, 6.80 and 4.86 mg/L, respectively, which were better than that of tricyclazole (EC50 118.20 mg/L) and close to or better than that of carbendazim (EC50 1.20 mg/L). The most potent compound, 3a, exhibited broad-spectrum antifungal activity towards six fungi with EC50 values within the range of 0.43–40.18 mg/L. Scanning electron microscopy demonstrated that compounds 3a, 4a and 5k gave irregular growth and shriveling of the mycelia. In vitro cytotoxicity evaluation revealed that the tested camphor derivatives had mild or no cytotoxicity for LO2 and HEK293T cell lines. Quantitative structure−activity relationship (QSAR) analysis revealed that the number of F atoms, relative molecular weight, the atomic orbital electronic population and total charge on the positively charged surfaces of the molecules of camphor derivatives have effects on antifungal activity. The present study may provide a theoretical basis for a high-value use of camphor and could be helpful for the development of novel potential antifungals.
Do ESG Ratings Reduce the Asymmetry Behavior in Volatility?
Authors: Zarafat Hashem , Liebhardt Sascha , Eratalay Mustafa Hakan
Published: July 2022

It is well noted in the literature that volatility responds differently to positive and negative shocks. In this paper, we explore the impact of ESG ratings on such asymmetric behavior of volatility. For this analysis, we use the return data, ESG ratings, and solvency ratios of the constituent stocks of S&P Europe 350 for the period January 2016–December 2021. We apply autoregressive moving average models for the conditional means and GARCH and stochastic volatility models for the conditional variances to estimate the asymmetry coefficients. Afterwards, these coefficients are regressed via Arellano–Bond and lagged first difference methods to estimate the impact of ESG ratings. Our findings confirm that stocks of riskier firms are more likely to suffer from asymmetry behavior of volatility. We also confirm that firm leverage is linked to this asymmetry behavior. We found evidence that the impact of ESG ratings was negative before COVID-19, but positive afterwards. For some sectors, higher ESG ratings are linked to higher asymmetry. Finally, we found that during COVID-19, the asymmetry behavior became more pronounced.
Is Earnings Management Related to Labor Productivity Gap? Evidence from the USA
Authors: Bhuyan Rafiqul , Hasan Fuad
Published: July 2022

Using a standard partial adjustment model and US firms, we study the relationship between managers’ failure to achieve target labor productivity and their tendency to manage earnings. To overcome the endogeneity problem, we employ an instrumental variable technique based on negative investment growth and find that managers, experiencing a labor productivity gap, tend to manage earnings by manipulating discretionary accruals and real operating activities. Additional analysis suggests that elements of personal value maximization biases drive the estimated effect of the labor productivity gap. Our results are robust considering variation and alternative measures of statistical sensitivity. The positive association between the labor productivity gap and earnings management is also consistent with the opportunistic financial reporting hypothesis and impression management theory.
Decisions and Coordination of Green Supply Chain Considering Big Data Targeted Advertising
Authors: Hu Haiju , Li Yakun , Li Mengdi
Published: July 2022

The application of big data targeted advertising in the green supply chain makes the green marketing of products more accurate and effective. This paper applies game theory to study the decisions and coordination issues of a green supply chain in which the online retailer conducts big data targeted advertising. A centralized model and two Stackelberg game models (an online-retailer-led decentralized model and a manufacturer-led decentralized model) were constructed and solved. The zero wholesale price-side-payment contract and greedy wholesale price-side-payment contract were introduced into the green supply chain for coordination. The study found that: (1) the increase in demand attenuation coefficient, green sensitivity coefficient, and big data targeted advertising sensitivity coefficient will be beneficial to the growth of total consumer demand, supply chain profit, and environmental benefit; (2) supply chain coordination is necessary because greenness, demand, supply chain profit, and environmental benefit under the centralized model are higher than those under two decentralized models; (3) two contracts can achieve the coordination of the green supply chain, and the profits of the manufacturer and online retailer under the contract are greater than those under the decentralized model. The results can provide insights for promoting green supply chain operations.
Divergence between Willingness and Behavior of Farmers to Purchase Socialized Agricultural Services: From a Heterogeneity Perspective of Land Scale
Authors: Qu Meng , Zhao Kai , Zhang Renhui , Gao Yuan , Wang Jing
Published: July 2022

The low-level dilemma of farmers’ Socialized Agricultural Services (SAS) purchases is a realistic problem facing the construction of socialized service systems in China’s major grain-producing areas. Existing research lacks the necessary attention on the decision-making mechanism of farmers’ purchases of SAS, resulting in a large gap between theoretical research and real-world problems. Based on the data of 638 households in China’s main grain-producing areas, this paper empirically analyzes the influence mechanism of heterogeneous land scale on deviation between farmers’ willingness and behavior to purchase SAS, and discusses the heterogeneity of the influence mechanism under different production links. The findings indicate that the degree of divergence between farmers’ willingness to purchase SAS and their behavior is large. (1) There is a significant threshold effect of land scale on the degree of divergence between farmers’ willingness and behavior to purchase SAS, and the threshold value is ten mu. The increase in land scale will significantly enlarge the divergence between small-scale farmers’ purchase willingness and behavior. However, it will significantly reduce the divergence between large-scale farmers’ purchase willingness and behavior. (2) From the demand side, household income and health will significantly reduce the divergence among farmers of different business sizes. Family burden and land fragmentation are essential factors affecting the degree of divergence of small-scale farmers, while education and the value of their own machinery significantly affect the degree of divergence of large-scale farmers. From the supply side, whether there are local suppliers and their matching degree with farmers significantly reduces the divergence among farmers of different business scales. However, small-scale farmers are more sensitive to the price and quality of agricultural services, while large-scale farmers have higher requirements for the degree of regulation of supplying agents. (3) There is heterogeneity in the influence mechanisms of divergence between farmers’ willingness to purchase SAS and their behavior under different product segments. In addition, our findings highlight how to realize the transformation from declarative preference to explicit preference in promoting farmers’ purchases of SAS.
Seasonal Differences in Land Surface Temperature under Different Land Use/Land Cover Types from the Perspective of Different Climate Zones
Authors: Xin Jiaxing , Yang Jun , Sun Dongqi , Han Tianyu , Song Chunrui , Shi Zhipeng
Published: July 2022

The process of urbanization is accelerating, and land surface temperature (LST) is increasing, seriously threatening human health. Therefore, it is crucial to explore the differences in LST of different land use/land cover (LULC) types. Using MOD11A2 and MCD12Q1 data, this study explored the seasonal differences in LST of each LULC type from the perspective of different climate zones. The results showed that the maximum and minimum LSTs during the day were higher than those at night. During the day, the LSTs of urban and built-up and barren lands were higher than those of forests, grasslands, and water bodies; at night, the LSTs of urban and built-up lands decreased but remained high, while barren lands showed a significant decrease to LSTs even lower than those of water bodies. In addition, the difference in daytime LST of the LU16 type (barren lands) in different climatic zones was the most obvious and was much higher than that of other LULC types in the middle temperate and south temperate zones, but much lower than those in the middle subtropical and north subtropical zones. This comparison of the LST differences of each LULC type under different climate backgrounds provides an important reference for rational urban planning.
Clinical and Virological Response to Convalescent Plasma in a Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Patient with COVID-19 Pneumonia
Authors: Belcari Giovanni , Conti Alberto , Mazzoni Alessandro , Lanza Maria , Mazzetti Paola , Focosi Daniele
Published: July 2022

The burden of COVID-19 remains unchanged for immunocompromised patients who do not respond to vaccines. Unfortunately, Omicron sublineages are resistant to monoclonal antibodies authorized in Europe so far, and small chemical antivirals have contraindications and toxicities that have not been studied in these patients. We report here the successful treatment of COVID-19 pneumonia lasting for 4 months after the transfusion of COVID-19 convalescent plasma (CCP) in a patient with severe immunosuppression due to both chronic lymphocytic leukemia and venetoclax treatment. The patient achieved a complete clinical, radiological and virological response after six transfusions (600 mL each) of high-titer CCP collected from triple-vaccinated and convalescent donors. This dramatic case adds to the mounting evidence of CCP efficacy in immunocompromised patients, provided that high-titer and large volumes are infused.
Heritability Estimation of Multiple Sclerosis Related Plasma Protein Levels in Sardinian Families with Immunochip Genotyping Data
Authors: Nova Andrea , Baldrighi Giulia Nicole , Fazia Teresa , Graziano Francesca , Saddi Valeria , Piras Marialuisa , Beecham Ashley , McCauley Jacob L. , Bernardinelli Luisa
Published: July 2022

This work aimed at estimating narrow-sense heritability, defined as the proportion of the phenotypic variance explained by the sum of additive genetic effects, via Haseman–Elston regression for a subset of 56 plasma protein levels related to Multiple Sclerosis (MS). These were measured in 212 related individuals (with 69 MS cases and 143 healthy controls) obtained from 20 Sardinian families with MS history. Using pedigree information, we found seven statistically significant heritable plasma protein levels (after multiple testing correction), i.e., Gc (h2 = 0.77; 95%CI: 0.36, 1.00), Plat (h2 = 0.70; 95%CI: 0.27, 0.95), Anxa1 (h2 = 0.68; 95%CI: 0.27, 1.00), Sod1 (h2 = 0.58; 95%CI: 0.18, 0.96), Irf8 (h2 = 0.56; 95%CI: 0.19, 0.99), Ptger4 (h2 = 0.45; 95%CI: 0.10, 0.96), and Fadd (h2 = 0.41; 95%CI: 0.06, 0.84). A subsequent analysis was performed on these statistically significant heritable plasma protein levels employing Immunochip genotyping data obtained in 155 healthy controls (92 related and 63 unrelated); we found a meaningful proportion of heritable plasma protein levels’ variability explained by a small set of SNPs. Overall, the results obtained, for these seven MS-related proteins, emphasized a high additive genetic variance component explaining plasma levels’ variability.
Preparation Method of Lunar Soil Simulant and Experimental Verification of the Performance of an Impact Penetrator for Lunar Soil Exploration
Authors: Li He , Li Yuanbo , Wei Minyu , Shen Yi
Published: July 2022

The exploration and investigation of lunar soil can provide necessary information for human beings to understand the Moon’s geological evolution history and solar activity, and is also of great significance for human beings to search for new energy sources. The impact penetrator can dive to a certain depth below the lunar surface, depending on soil compaction effect, and obtain lunar soil detection data by using the onboard sensors. The penetrator has the advantages of small size, light weight, low power consumption and long-term detection ability. In order to verify the diving performance of the developed impact penetrator, a great deal of lunar soil simulant, with physical and mechanical properties similar to a real lunar soil sample, was prepared, which lay the foundation for experimental research. Experiments on the influences of mass–stiffness parameters and dynamic parameters were conducted to obtain reasonable parameter-matching effects and driving parameters. The penetrating experiments in lunar soil simulant, with different relative compaction parameters, indicated that the penetrator could penetrate the simulated lunar soil with high relative compaction, and the penetration depth could reach to 545 mm after 894 shocks in lunar soil, with a relative compaction of 85%. This study on the impact penetrator can provide a feasible approach for in-situ exploration of lunar soil.
Investigation into the Structural, Spectral, Magnetic, and Electrical Properties of Cobalt-Substituted Strontium W-Type Hexaferrites
Authors: Yang Yujie , Chen Congliang , Chen Dongyang , Zhang Yingming , Meng Yuting , Zhang Cong , Feng Shuangjiu
Published: July 2022

The solid-state reaction method is used to synthesize W-type Sr hexagonal ferrites Sr0.8Pr0.2(Zn1.0−xCox)2Fe16O27 (x = 0.00, 0.15, 0.30, 0.45, 0.60, 0.75). The results of XRD for the W-type hexagonal ferrites, when Co content (x) is 0.00 ≤ x ≤ 0.75, exhibit that they are in the single W-type hexaferrite phase. As shown by morphological analysis, the particles are hexagonal-shaped platelets. The saturation magnetization (Ms) and magneton number (nB) increases with Co content (x) from 0.00 to 0.60. Ms and nB begins to decrease at Co content (x) ≥ 0.60. With increasing Co content (x) from 0.00 to 0.75, the magnetic anisotropy field (Ha), first anisotropy constant (K1), and coercivity (Hc) decrease gradually. The values of DC electrical resistivity for W-type hexagonal ferrites Sr0.8Pr0.2(Zn1.0−xCox)2Fe16O27 (0.00 ≤ x ≤ 0.75) are in the range of 20.854 × 107 Ω-cm and 22.755 × 107 Ω-cm.
Calculating the Segmented Helix Formed by Repetitions of Identical Subunits thereby Generating a Zoo of Platonic Helices
Authors: Read Robert L.
Published: July 2022

Eric Lord has observed: “In nature, helical structures arise when identical structural subunits combine sequentially, the orientational and translational relation between each unit and its predecessor remaining constant.” This paper proves Lord’s observation. Constant-time algorithms are given for the segmented helix generated from the intrinsic properties of a stacked object and its conjoining rule. Standard results from screw theory and previous work are combined with corollaries of Lord’s observation to allow calculations of segmented helices from either transformation matrices or four known consecutive points. The construction of these from the intrinsic properties of the rule for conjoining repeated subunits of arbitrary shape is provided, allowing the complete parameters describing the unique segmented helix generated by arbitrary stackings to be easily calculated. Free/Libre open-source interactive software and a website which performs this computation for arbitrary prisms along with interactive 3D visualization is provided. We prove that any subunit can produce a toroid-like helix or a maximally-extended helix, forming a continuous spectrum based on joint-face normal twist. This software, website and paper, taken together, compute, render, and catalog an exhaustive “zoo” of 28 uniquely-shaped platonic helices, such as the Boerdijk–Coxeter tetrahelix and various species of helices formed from dodecahedra.
Modeling of Territorial and Managerial Aspects of Robotization of Agriculture in Russia
Authors: Melnikov Yury B. , Skvortsov Egor , Ziablitckaia Natalia , Kurdyumov Alexander
Published: July 2022

In the context of a shortage of labor and objective patterns of the development of means of production in a number of sectors of agriculture, farmers are increasingly using robotics. Despite the presence of significant positive economic effects, the robotization of agriculture in Russia is carried out at a slow pace and is very uneven. This suggests that the robotization of agriculture is influenced by the socio-economic characteristics and characteristics of the regions. The methods are based on a systematic approach to research and an algebraic approach to modelling, which, in our opinion, is a system of several components. To build models, data on the introduction of robotics in Russian agriculture for 2006–2020 and the socio-economic characteristics of the regions during the period of the most intensive introduction of robots (2013–2017) were used. As a conclusion, it can be noted that the robotization of agriculture in the Russian Federation is at the implementation stage, which is confirmed by a significant spread in the correlation coefficient of robotization indicators and various socio-economic characteristics of the regions, including the share of organizations using the Internet, availability of road infrastructure, the share of the rural population in the regions and a number of other indicators. It is shown that, at this stage of the robotization of agriculture, the most important are the models of the management process, while the priority is the subjective component of decision-making about the introduction of robotics, both at the micro level and at the regional level. We have proposed models that reflect various aspects of the robotization process and three mathematical models for the implementation of the strategy are built, which form a model-triad. Three theorems on the existence of an optimal realization of the strategy are proved.
Nutritional Interventions to Improve Cachexia Outcomes in Cancer—A Systematic Review
Authors: Braha Adina , Albai Alin , Timar Bogdan , Negru Șerban , Sorin Săftescu , Roman Deiana , Popovici Dorel
Published: July 2022

Background and Objectives: The prevalence of cachexia has increased across all of the cancer types and accounts for up to 20% of cancer-related deaths. This paper is a systematic review of nutritional interventions aiming to improve cachexia outcomes in cancer, focusing on weight gain. Materials and Methods: A search in Medline and Elsevier databases for articles up until the 23 January 2022, was conducted. Results: Out of 5732 screened records, 26 publications were included in the final analysis. Four randomized clinical trials showed a significant body weight (BW) increase in patients treated with eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), β-hydroxy-beta-methyl butyrate (β-HMB), arginine, and glutamine or marine phospholipids (MPL). An upward BW trend was observed in patients treated with L-carnitine, an Ethanwell/Ethanzyme (EE) regimen enriched with ω-3 fatty acids, micronutrients, probiotics, fish oil, a leucine-rich supplement, or total parental nutrition (TPN) with a high dose of a branched-chain amino acid (BCAA). Conclusions: Although clinical trials relating to large numbers of nutritional supplements present promising data, many trials provided negative results. Further studies investigating the underlying mechanisms of action of these nutritional supplements in cancer cachexia are needed. Early screening for cancer cachexia risk and nutritional intervention in cancer patients before aggravating weight loss may stabilize their weight, preventing cachexia syndrome. According to the GRADE methodology, no positive recommendation for these nutritional supplements may be expressed.
The Legacy of Renato Dulbecco in the Post-Genomic Era
Authors: Abenavoli Ludovico , Boccuto Luigi
Published: July 2022

The true measure of a visionary is marked by their ability to perceive and anticipate future developments in their field [...]
Regeneration of Exhausted Palladium-Based Membranes: Recycling Process and Economics
Authors: Toro Luigi , Moscardini Emanuela , Baldassari Ludovica M. , Forte Flavia , Coletta Jacopo , Palo Emma , Cosentino Vittoria , Angelini Fabio , Arratibel Plazaola Alba , Pagnanelli Francesca , Altimari Pietro
Published: July 2022

The aim of the present work is the recycling treatment of tubular α-Al2O3-supported ceramic membranes with a Pd/Ag selective layer, employed in hydrogen production with integrated CO2 capture. A nitric acid leaching treatment was investigated, and recovered ceramic supports were characterized, demonstrating their suitability for the production of novel efficient membranes. The main objective was the metal dissolution that preserved the support integrity in order to allow the recovered membrane to be suitable for a new deposition of the selective layer. The conditions that obtained a satisfactory dissolution rate of the Pd/Ag layer while avoiding the support to be damaged are as follows: nitric acid 3 M, 60 °C and 3.5 h of reaction time. The efficiency of the recovered supports was determined by nitrogen permeance and surface roughness analysis, and the economic figures were analysed to evaluate the convenience of the regeneration process and the advantage of a recycled membrane over a new membrane. The experimentation carried out demonstrates the proposed process feasibility both in terms of recycling and economic results.
Correlation between Microstructures and Tensile Properties in Friction Stir Welding Joint of Zn-Modified 5083 Al Alloy
Authors: Zhu Zhixiong , Lang Zongling , Xu Meng , Nie Pan , Jiang Xingxu , Hu Fengfeng , Lin Yongyong
Published: July 2022

Various Zn contents were utilized as an alloy element adding in the AA5083 aluminum alloys to optimize the properties. The subsequent characterizing techniques show that the hardness distribution of the friction stir welding (FSW) joint is ‘W’ shaped with the nugget zone relatively high, and the hardness of the thermo-mechanical affected zone (TMAZ) being the lowest. The joint with rotation speed of 600 rpm has the best mechanical properties and no welding defects appear. The grain deformation of the TMAZ is greater under the action of the welding tool and grain growth occurs in the heat affected zone (HAZ). Based on slow strain rate testing (SSRT), the FSW joint of the AA5083 alloy containing Zn 0.50 wt.% showed the highest resistance to stress corrosion cracking (SCC), which is probably due to the formation of Zn phase in place of the β (Al3Mg2) phase during welding.
Correction: Lai et al. Sensitivity Enhancement of Group Refractive Index Biosensor through Ring-Down Interferograms of Microring Resonator. Micromachines 2022, 13, 922
Authors: Lai Hsuan , Kuo Tzu-Ning , Xu Jia-Yi , Hsu Shih-Hsiang , Hsu Yi-Cheng
Published: July 2022

In the original publication [...]
A Direct-Reading MEMS Conductivity Sensor with a Parallel-Symmetric Four-Electrode Configuration
Authors: Liao Zhiwei , Jing Junmin , Gao Rui , Guo Yuzhen , Yao Bin , Zhang Huiyu , Zhao Zhou , Zhang Wenjun , Wang Yonghua , Zhang Zengxing , Xue Chenyang
Published: July 2022

This work proposes a design for a direct-reading conductivity sensor with a parallel symmetrical four-electrode structure, which integrates a silicon-based platinum thin-film strip electrode and a serpentine temperature compensation electrode. The optimal structural parameters of the electrode were determined by finite element simulations performed via COMSOL Multiphysics. Next, the designed conductivity sensor chip was fabricated using MEMS technology, and subsequently, the conductivity measurement circuit was designed to test the fabricated sensor’s performance. In laboratory tests, the optimal AC excitation frequency was observed to be 1.067 kHz, while the maximum measurement range was 0–107.41 mS/cm and the measurement precision in low concentration range (0–76.422 mS/cm) was ±0.1 mS/cm. Furthermore, the maximum measurement error of the sensor evaluated using the National Center of Ocean Standards and Metrology was ±0.073 mS/cm. The designed sensor possesses the characteristics of high accuracy, high range, and miniaturization, and enables real-time reading of conductivity value and temperature compensation, which is of great significance for the on-site observation of the physical parameters of marine environment.
Study on the Formation Mechanism of Cutting Dead Metal Zone for Turning AISI4340 with Different Chamfering Tools
Authors: Wu Shujing , Wang Dazhong , Zhang Jiajia , Nadykto Alexey B.
Published: July 2022

Tools with chamfered edges are often used in high speed machining of hard materials because they provide compelling cutting toughness and reduced tool wear. Chamfered tools are also responsible for the dead metal zone (DMZ). Through numerical simulation of orthogonal cutting with AISI 4340 steel, this paper examines the mechanism of the DMZ, the cutting speed, the impacts of the chamfer angle, and the coefficient of friction on the generation of the DMZ. The analysis is based upon the Arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian (ALE) finite element method (FEM) for the continuous process of chip formation. The different chamfered angles, cutting speeds, and friction coefficient conditions are utilized in the simulation. The research demonstrates that a zone of trapped material called DMZ has been formed beneath the chamfer and serves as an effective cutting edge of the tool. Additionally, the dead metal zone DMZ becomes smaller while the cutting speed increases or the friction coefficient decreases. The machining forces rise with increasing chamfer angles, rise with increasing friction coefficients, and fall with increasing cutting speed in both the cutting and thrust directions. In this paper, the effect of different chamfering tools on AISI 4340 steel using carbide tools in the simulation environment is studied. It has certain reference significance for studying the formation mechanism of the dead zone of difficult-to-machine materials such as AISI4340 and improving the processing efficiency and workpiece surface quality.
Design of Metal-Based Slippery Liquid-Infused Porous Surfaces (SLIPSs) with Effective Liquid Repellency Achieved with a Femtosecond Laser
Authors: Fang Zheng , Cheng Yang , Yang Qing , Lu Yu , Zhang Chengjun , Li Minjing , Du Bing , Hou Xun , Chen Feng
Published: July 2022

Slippery liquid-infused porous surfaces (SLIPSs) have become an effective method to provide materials with sliding performance and, thus, achieve liquid repellency, through the process of infusing lubricants into the microstructure of the surface. However, the construction of microstructures on high-strength metals is still a significant challenge. Herein, we used a femtosecond laser with a temporally shaped Bessel beam to process NiTi alloy, and created uniform porous structures with a microhole diameter of around 4 µm, in order to store and lock lubricant. In addition, as the lubricant is an important factor that can influence the sliding properties, five different lubricants were selected to prepare the SLIPSs, and were further compared in terms of their sliding behavior. The temperature cycle test and the hydraulic pressure test were implemented to characterize the durability of the samples, and different liquids were used to investigate the possible failure under complex fluid conditions. In general, the prepared SLIPSs exhibited superior liquid repellency. We believe that, in combination with a femtosecond laser, slippery liquid-infused porous surfaces are promising for applications in a wide range of areas.
Streptococcus pyogenes NAD+-Glycohydrolase Reduces Skeletal Muscle βNAD+ Levels Independently of Streptolysin O
Authors: McIndoo Eric R. , Price Emily , Lamb Cheri L. , Dayton Christopher S. , Bayer Clifford R. , Stevens Dennis L. , Bryant Amy E. , Hobdey Sarah E.
Published: July 2022

Necrotizing soft tissue infections caused by Streptococcus pyogenes (group A streptococcus [GAS]) are characterized by rapid and extensive necrosis of fascia and muscle. Molecular epidemiological studies have demonstrated a positive correlation between GAS isolates that cause invasive infections and the production of S. pyogenes NAD+-glycohydrolase (SPN), an NADase secreted by GAS, but the effect of SPN on muscle cells has not been described. Thus, using standard βNAD+ and ATP quantification assays, we investigated the effects of SPN on cultured human skeletal muscle cell (SkMC) βNAD+ and ATP with and without streptolysin O (SLO)–a secreted cholesterol-dependent cytolysin known to act synergistically with SPN. We found that culture supernatants from GAS strains producing SLO and SPN depleted intracellular βNAD+ and ATP, while exotoxins from a GAS strain producing SLO and an enzymatically-inactive form of SPN had no effect on βNAD+ or ATP. Addition of purified, enzymatically-active SPN to NADase-negative culture supernatants or sterile media reconstituted βNAD+ depletion but had no effect ATP levels. Further, SPN-mediated βNAD+ depletion could be augmented by SLO or the homologous cholesterol-dependent cytolysin, perfringolysin O (PFO). Remarkably, SPN-mediated βNAD+ depletion was SkMC-specific, as purified SPN had minimal effect on epithelial cell βNAD+. Taken together, this study identifies a previously unrecognized role for SPN as a major disruptor of skeletal muscle βNAD+. Such activity could contribute to the rapid and widespread myonecrosis characteristic of severe GAS soft tissue infections.
Characterization of Clostridioides difficile Strains from an Outbreak Using MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Calderaro Adriana , Buttrini Mirko , Farina Benedetta , Montecchini Sara , Martinelli Monica , Arcangeletti Maria Cristina , Chezzi Carlo , De Conto Flora
Published: July 2022

The epidemiology of Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) has changed over the last two decades, due to the emergence of C. difficile strains with clinical relevance and responsible for nosocomial outbreaks with severe outcomes. This study reports an outbreak occurred in a Long-term Care Unit from February to March 2022 and tracked by using a Matrix-Assisted Desorption/Ionization Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) typing approach (T-MALDI); subsequently, a characterization of the toxigenic and antimicrobial susceptibility profiles of the C. difficile isolates was performed. A total of 143 faecal samples belonging to 112 patients was evaluated and C. difficile DNA was detected in 51 samples (46 patients). Twenty-nine C. difficile isolates were obtained, and three different clusters were revealed by T-MALDI. The most representative cluster accounted 22 strains and was considered to be epidemic, in agreement with PCR-Ribotyping. Such epidemic strains were susceptible to vancomycin (MIC ≤ 0.5 mg/mL) and metronidazole (MIC ≤ 1 mg/mL), but not to moxifloxacin (MIC > 32 mg/mL). Moreover, they produced only the Toxin A and, additionally, the binary toxin. To our knowledge, this is the first reported outbreak referable to a tcdA+/tcdB-/cdt+ genotypic profile. In light of these results, T-MALDI is a valid and rapid approach for discovering and tracking outbreaks.
A Practical Valorization Approach for Mitigating Textile Fibrous Microplastics in the Environment: Collection of Textile-Processing Waste Microfibers and Direct Reuse in Green Thermal-Insulating and Mechanical-Performing Composite Construction Materials
Authors: Malchiodi Beatrice , Cedillo-González Erika Iveth , Siligardi Cristina , Pozzi Paolo
Published: July 2022

Microplastic (MP) contamination is an urgent environmental issue to address. Fibrous microplastics (FMPs) are the principal MP type in the air and have already been found in human stool and lung tissues. FMPs are generated from the lifecycle of synthetic and blended textiles and are expected to increase due to fast fashion. Among textile processes, the finishing of fabrics is estimated to generate 5000 t/year of textile waste fibers in Italy, including FMPs. To limit FMPs spread, this paper suggests, for the first time, the direct collection of blended finishing textile waste microfibers and reuse in designing thermal-insulating and mechanical-performing fiber-reinforced cementitious composites (FRCs). The microfibers were thoroughly characterized (size, morphology, composition, and density), and their use in FRCs was additionally evaluated by considering water absorption and release capacity. Untreated, water-saturated, and NaOH-treated microfibers were considered in FRCs up to 4 wt%. Up to a +320% maximum bending load, +715% toughness, −80% linear shrinkage, and double-insulating power of Portland cement were observed by increasing microfiber contents. NaOH-treated and water-saturated microfibers better enhanced toughness and linear shrinkage reduction. Therefore, green and performant composite construction materials were obtained, allowing for the mitigation of more than 4 kg FMPs per ton of cement paste. This is a great result considering the FMP contamination (i.e., 2–8 kg/day fallout in Paris), and that FRCs are promising and shortly-widely used construction materials.