bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rad1 and Rad10 Tied to Photolyase Regulators Protect Insecticidal Fungal Cells from Solar UV Damage by Photoreactivation
Authors: Yu Lei , Xu Si-Yuan , Luo Xin-Cheng , Ying Sheng-Hua , Feng Ming-Guang
Published: October 2022

Beauveria bassiana serves as a main source of global fungal insecticides, which are based on the active ingredient of formulated conidia vulnerable to solar ultraviolet (UV) irradiation and restrained for all-weather application in green agriculture. The anti-UV proteins Rad1 and Rad10 are required for the nucleotide excision repair (NER) of UV-injured DNA in model yeast, but their anti-UV roles remain rarely exploredin filamentous fungi. Here, Rad1 and Rad10 orthologues that accumulated more in the nuclei than the cytoplasm of B. bassiana proved capable of reactivating UVB-impaired or UVB-inactivated conidia efficiently by 5h light exposure but incapable of doing so by 24 h dark incubation (NER) if the accumulated UVB irradiation was lethal. Each orthologue was found interacting with the other and two white collar proteins (WC1 and WC2), which proved to be regulators of two photolyases (Phr1 and Phr2) and individually more efficient in the photorepair of UVB-induced DNA lesions than either photolyase alone. The fungal photoreactivation activity was more or far more compromised when the protein–protein interactions were abolished in the absence of Rad1 or Rad10 than when either Phr1 or Phr2 lost function. The detected protein–protein interactions suggest direct links of either Rad1 or Rad10 to two photolyase regulators. In B. bassiana, therefore, Rad1 and Rad10 tied to the photolyase regulators have high activities in the photoprotection of formulated conidia from solar UV damage but insufficient NER activities in the field, where night (dark) time is too short, and no other roles in the fungal lifecycle in vitro and in vivo.
Improving Prostatic Preoperative Volume Estimation and Planning before Laser Enucleation
Authors: Savin Ziv , Dekalo Snir , Herzberg Haim , Ben-David Reuben , Bar-Yosef Yuval , Beri Avi , Yossepowitch Ofer , Sofer Mario
Published: October 2022

We aimed to validate a formula for improving the estimation of prostatic volume by abdominal ultrasound (AUS) prior to transurethral laser enucleation. A total of 293 patients treated for benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) by laser enucleation from 2019–2022 were included. The preoperative AUS volume was adjusted by the formula 1.082 × Age + 0.523 × AUS − 53.845, which was based on specimens retrieved by suprapubic prostatectomy. The results were compared to the weight of the tissue removed by laser enucleation as determined by the intraclass correlation coefficient test (ICC). The potential impact of preoperative planning on operating time was calculated. The ICC between the adjusted volumes and the enucleated tissue weights was 0.86 (p < 0.001). The adjusted volume was more accurate than the AUS volume (weight-to-volume ratio of 0.84 vs. 0.7, p < 0.001) and even more precise for prostates weighing >80 g. The median operating time was 90 min. The adjusted volume estimation resulted in an overall shorter expected preoperative operating time by a median of 21 min (24%) and by a median of 40 min in prostates weighing >80 g. The adjustment formula accurately predicts prostate volume before laser enucleation procedures and may significantly improve preoperative planning, the matching of a surgeon’s level of expertise, and the management of patients’ expectations.
Maturity-Onset Diabetes of the Young: Mutations, Physiological Consequences, and Treatment Options
Authors: Younis Hazar , Ha Se Eun , Jorgensen Brian G. , Verma Arushi , Ro Seungil
Published: October 2022

Maturity-Onset Diabetes of the Young (MODY) is a rare form of diabetes which affects between 1% and 5% of diagnosed diabetes cases. Clinical characterizations of MODY include onset of diabetes at an early age (before the age of 30), autosomal dominant inheritance pattern, impaired glucose-induced secretion of insulin, and hyperglycemia. Presently, 14 MODY subtypes have been identified. Within these subtypes are several mutations which contribute to the different MODY phenotypes. Despite the identification of these 14 subtypes, MODY is often misdiagnosed as type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus due to an overlap in clinical features, high cost and limited availability of genetic testing, and unfamiliarity with MODY outside of the medical profession. The primary aim of this review is to investigate the genetic characterization of the MODY subtypes. Additionally, this review will elucidate the link between the genetics, function, and clinical manifestations of MODY in each of the 14 subtypes. In providing this knowledge, we hope to assist in the accurate diagnosis of MODY patients and, subsequently, in ensuring they receive appropriate treatment.
Evaluating Virtual and Inpatient Pulmonary Rehabilitation Programs for Patients with COPD
Authors: Barata Paula Irina , Crisan Alexandru Florian , Maritescu Adelina , Negrean Rodica Anamaria , Rosca Ovidiu , Bratosin Felix , Citu Cosmin , Oancea Cristian
Published: October 2022

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an increasingly frequent disorder that is likely to become the third leading cause of morbidity worldwide. It significantly degrades the quality of life of patients affected and poses a significant financial burden to the healthcare systems providing treatment and rehabilitation. Consequently, our study’s purpose was to compare conventional inpatient pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) with virtual (online) PR using a mobile phone application. During a three-month period, two groups of patients followed the research protocol by participating in a pulmonary rehabilitation program administered and supervised by a physical therapist five times per week. A number of respiratory variables were examined before and after the test. At the end of the study period, a total of 72 patients completed the rehabilitation in the inpatient group, respectively 58 in the online group. It was observed that post-test comparison between patients undergoing the traditional and online rehabilitation methods did not show any significant differences. However, the calculated mean differences between pre-test and post-test results were significantly higher in favor of the virtual method. The most significant variations were encountered in maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) (6.6% vs. 8.5%, p-value < 0.001), 6-min walking test (6MWT) (6.7% vs. 9.4%, p-value < 0.001), and COPD assessment test (CAT) values (4.8 vs. 6.2, p-value < 0.001), respectively. However, the maximal expiratory pressure (MEP) variation was significantly higher in patients undergoing the traditional rehabilitation method, from an average of 4.1% to 3.2% (p-value < 0.001). In this preliminary study, the online pulmonary rehabilitation program proved non-inferiority to the traditional method, with significantly better results in several measurements. Additional studies using larger cohorts of patients and longer exposure to the online rehabilitation program are required to validate these findings.
Longitudinal Follow-Up Using the Heel Enthesitis Magnetic Resonance Imaging Scoring System (HEMRIS) Shows Minimal Changes in Heel Enthesitis Assessed in Spondyloarthritis and Psoriasis Patients
Authors: Kleinrensink Nienke J. , Foppen Wouter , Katen Iris ten , Leijten Emmerik F. A. , de Jong Pim A. , Spierings Julia
Published: October 2022

Enthesitis is a common clinical feature of spondyloarthritis (SpA). For reliable assessment of enthesitis the Heel Enthesitis Magnetic Resonance Imaging Scoring System (HEMRIS) was developed. The aims of this study were to evaluate changes in HEMRIS over time and to evaluate whether these changes correlated with changes in clinical parameters. This single-center observational study followed patients with SpA and psoriasis, regardless of presence of clinical heel enthesitis, for two years. Clinical evaluation and ankle MRIs were performed annually. Changes in HEMRIS were compared at one-year intervals using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. The association between changes in the HEMRIS with changes in clinical parameters was evaluated using Spearman’s correlation coefficient. In total, 38 patients were included. An increase in the inflammatory and structural HEMRIS was identified in, respectively, 12 (17.9%) and 4 (6.0%) patients in one-year intervals. We found non-significant changes in the HEMRIS during longitudinal follow-up. Changes in the HEMRIS did not correlate with changes in local or general disease activity. Our results show that MRI-findings of enthesitis assessed with HEMRIS changed in a small number of patients in a one-year interval in an observational setting. Changes in HEMRIS were not associated with changes in clinical disease activity.
Corporate Social Responsibility Disclosure and Investment Decisions: Evidence from Saudi Indexed Companies
Authors: Kouaib Amel , Amara Ines
Published: October 2022

This study investigated the investment decisions of Saudi corporations in the corporate social responsibility (CSR) context and examined the moderated role of corporate governance quality. The panel dataset consisted of 82 firms and 328 Saudi firm-year observations listed on the Saudi Stock Exchange over the period of 2018–2021, and feasible generalized least squares (FGLS) regression was used for model estimation. The empirical findings indicated that companies with higher levels of CSR reporting invested more effectively than companies with lower CSR reporting levels. The empirical analysis suggested two main findings: (i) corporate social responsibility (CSR) reporting has a significant effect on investment decisions and (ii) this relationship depends on corporate governance practices. This research presents new evidence that improves the discussion around CSR involvement and corporate investment decision making in the emerging market of Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, it presents practical and managerial implications for policymakers and standard setters who are interested in ameliorating sustainable development in Saudi Arabia under the Kingdom Vision of 2030. Additionally, this work provides suggestions for firm management regarding the importance of CSR commitment and corporate governance mechanisms in enhancing corporate investment decisions. Finally, the outcomes of this research are beneficial for investors, as they represent the factors to be considered before making investment decisions.
A Survey on Integrated Sensing, Communication, and Computing Networks for Smart Oceans
Authors: Dai Minghui , Li Yang , Li Peichun , Wu Yuan , Qian Liping , Lin Bin , Su Zhou
Published: October 2022

The smart ocean has been regarded as an integrated sensing, communication, and computing ecosystem developed for connecting marine objects in surface and underwater environments. The development of the smart ocean is expected to support a variety of marine applications and services such as resource exploration, marine disaster rescuing, and environment monitoring. However, the complex and dynamic marine environments and the limited network resources raise new challenges in marine communication and computing, especially for these computing-intensive and delay-sensitive tasks. Recently, the space–air–ground–sea integrated networks have been envisioned as a promising network framework to enhance the communication and computing performance. In this paper, we conduct a comprehensive survey on the integrated sensing, communication, and computing networks (ISCCNs) for smart oceans based on the collaboration of space–air–ground–sea networks from four domains (i.e., space layer, aerial layer, sea surface layer, and underwater layer), and five aspects (i.e., sensing-related, communication-related, computation-related, security-related, and application-related). Specifically, we provide the key technologies for the ISCCNs in smart oceans, and introduce the state-of-the-art marine sensing, communication, and computing paradigms. The emerging challenges with the potential solutions of the ISCCNs for smart oceans are illustrated to enable the intelligent services. Moreover, the new applications for the ISCCNs in smart oceans are discussed, and potential research directions in smart oceans are provided for future works.
Spatial Effects of the Land Supply Scale of Different Industrial Sectors on High-Quality Development in the Yangtze River Economic Belt
Authors: Qu Xiaochi , Zhang Haozhe , Bi Guohua , Su Kangchuan , Zhang Zhongxun , Qian Yao , Yang Qingyuan
Published: October 2022

The industrial land supply impacts regional high-quality development, with various impacts across sectors. Considering China’s Yangtze River Economic Belt (YREB), this paper uses entropy weighting, spatial analysis, and the spatial Durbin model for spatiotemporal and regional analysis of the high-quality development level (HDL) and its spatial correlation with the industrial land supply. (1) The annual average HDL in all cities of the YREB increases, the regional HDL is spatially unbalanced and decreases from downstream–midstream–upstream, and HDL overlaps with economic development spatiotemporally. (2) The increase in high-tech industrial land supply promotes local HDL, and the raw material industrial land supply promotes HDL more indirectly than directly. (3) The land supply of the industrial supporting service, processing, food and light textile, and raw material industries has significant indirect effects. Processing has the strongest positive spillover effect, and food and light textile has a significant negative spillover effect. The HDL equilibrium in the YREB increased from 2010 to 2019, and the clustering of the processing, industrial supporting service, and food and light textile industries aggravated the spatial imbalance. (4) The regional structure and layout of the industrial land supply should be optimized to promote the HDL of the YREB.
Negative Impact of the UEFA European Soccer Championship on Central Hemodynamics and Arterial Stiffness: A Multicenter Study
Authors: Franzen Klaas F. , Mortensen Kai , Ott Christian , Herber Katrin , Busse Marlene , Söling Charlotte , Schneppe Daniel , Lässig Saskia , Dörr Marcus , Tilz Roland , Drömann Daniel , Schunkert Heribert , Reppel Michael
Published: October 2022

(1) Background: watching sporting events may trigger cardiovascular events by elevating emotional stress levels. The underlying reasons and specific populations at risk are not well defined. (2) Methods: we conducted a multicenter prospective trial at three German sites during the UEFA Soccer EC 2012 and 2021 comprising 52 healthy participants (noCVD) and 18 patients hospitalized with cardiovascular disease (CVD). Subjects were studied during matches of the German national team (GP) as well as corresponding matches without German participation (noGP). Peripheral and central blood pressure (BP) and parameters of arterial stiffness were measured (Mobil-O-Graph™, I.E.M., Stolberg, Germany) before, during, and after the matches. (3) Results: in terms of CVD, peripheral as well as central BP and heart rate increased significantly during GP as well as noGP matches and remained elevated beyond the end of the matches. Likewise, arterial stiffness parameters and vascular resistance were higher during the matches and remained elevated after the matches. No consistent significant differences were found between GP and noGP matches. (4) Conclusions: this is the first study on real-life changes in hemodynamics during sport-associated emotional stress, with comparison between noCVD and CVD. We found that alterations were profound in CVD and remained elevated even after the matches.
Assessing the Bacterial Communities Composition from Differently Treated Agarwood via 16S rRNA Gene Metabarcoding
Authors: Wang Yichen , Hussain Mubasher , An Xincheng , Jiang Xiaojun , Mao Runqian
Published: October 2022

Agarwood (Aquilaria sinensis) is one of the most important resin-containing plants used to produce agar around the world and it is a precious herbal medicine usually combined with other herbs. In this study, we used the Illumina sequencing technique to explore the agarwood bacterial community structure from four different incense formations of agarwood, including healthy agarwood, drilling agarwood, liquid fermentation agarwood, and insect attack agarwood. Our results showed that 20 samples of three different incense-formation methods of agarwood and healthy agarwood acquired 1,792,706 high-quality sequences. In-depth investigation showed that when the diversity of agarwood bacterial species was higher, the agarwood incense quality was higher as well. Among healthy agarwood, drilling agarwood, fermentation agarwood, and insect attack agarwood, the bacterial community structure had significant changes. Natural agarwood, such as insect attack agarwood, kept more bacterial community structure, and the incense quality was better. Furthermore, we observed that in the healthy agarwood, Amnibacterium and Delftia were the predominant bacteria. Actinoplanes, Bordetella, and Sphingobacterium were the dominant bacteria in the drilling agarwood. Additionally, Pelagibacterium and Methylovirgula were some of the main bacteria in the fermentation liquid agarwood and the insect attack agarwood, while Cellulomonas and Aeromicrobium were the dominant bacteria. This research provides a basis for further research into the underlying mechanisms of incense production, as well as the bacterial community applications of agarwood production.
Photooxidation of A2E by Blue Light Regulates Heme Oxygenase 1 Expression via NF-κB and Lysine Methyltransferase 2A in ARPE-19 Cells
Authors: Shin Chae Young , Jeong Kwang Won
Published: October 2022

Background: N-retinylidene-N-retinylethanolamine (A2E) is a component of drusen that accumulates in retinal cells and induces oxidative stress through photooxidation, such as blue light (BL). We found that the heme oxygenase 1 (HMOX1) gene responds sensitively to photooxidation by the BL of A2E in retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells, and we sought to identify the transcription factors and coactivators involved in the upregulation of HMOX1 by A2E and BL. Methods: A2E-laden human RPE cells (ARPE-19) were exposed to BL (430 nm). RNA sequencing was performed to identify genes responsive to BL exposure. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and RT-qPCR were performed to determine the regulation of HMOX1 transcription. Clinical transcriptome data were used to evaluate HMOX1 expression in patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Results: In ARPE-19 cells, the expression of HMOX1, one of the NF-κB target genes, was significantly increased by A2E and BL. The binding of RELA and RNA polymerase II to the promoter region of HMOX1 was significantly increased by A2E and BL. Lysine methyltransferase 2A (MLL1) plays an important role in H3K4me3 methylation, NF-κB recruitment, chromatin remodeling at the HMOX1 promoter, and, subsequently, HMOX1 expression. The retinal tissues of patients with late-stage AMD showed significantly increased expression of HMOX1 compared to normal retinal tissues. In addition, the expression levels of MLL1 and HMOX1 in retinal tissues were correlated. Conclusions: Taken together, our results suggest that BL induces HMOX1 expression by activating NF-κB and MLL1 in RPE cells.
Study of the Effectiveness of Alumina and HDTMA/Alumina Composite in the Removal of Para-Nitrophenol and the Deactivation of Bacterial Effect of Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella spp.
Authors: Aazza Mustapha , Mounir Chadia , Ahlafi Hammou , Moussout Hamou , Bouymajane Aziz , Chroho Mounia , Giarratana Filippo , Nalbone Luca , Cacciola Francesco
Published: October 2022

Removal of para-nitrophenol (p-NP) from an aqueous solution was studied under various batch adsorption experiments, using alumina (Al2O3) and its composite hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide (HDTMA+-Br−) as adsorbents. These were later characterized, before and after adsorption of p-NP, by thermal analysis (DSC-TG), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and UV/Visible spectroscopies. The results show that HDTMA+/Al2O3 adsorbents have a greater affinity toward p-NP than Al2O3 alone. Linear and non-linear forms of kinetics and isotherms were used to analyze the experimental data obtained at different concentrations and temperatures. The results indicate that the pseudo-second order kinetic model provided the best fit to the experimental data for the adsorption of p-NP on both adsorbents, and that the intra-particle diffusion was not only the rate controlling step. Both the Langmuir and Redlich-Peterson (R-P) models were found to fit the sorption isotherm data well, but the Langmuir model was better. Physical adsorption of p-NP onto the adsorbents proved to be an endothermic and spontaneous process at high temperatures, which mainly involves a hydrogen bonding mechanism of interactions between p-NP and functional groups of adsorbents. The antibacterial activity of Al2O3, HDTMA+-Br− and HDTMA+/Al2O3 were evaluated against Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella spp. strains using both disc diffusion and broth microdilution methods. The HDTMA+-Br− and HDTMA+/Al2O3 displayed a bacteriostatic effect against all tested strains of Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella spp., while Al2O3 exhibited no bacterial effect against all bacterial strains tested.
Autocatalytic Sets Arising in a Combinatorial Model of Chemical Evolution
Authors: Hordijk Wim , Steel Mike , Kauffman Stuart
Published: October 2022

The idea that chemical evolution led to the origin of life is not new, but still leaves open the question of how exactly it could have led to a coherent and self-reproducing collective of molecules. One possible answer to this question was proposed in the form of the emergence of an autocatalytic set: a collection of molecules that mutually catalyze each other’s formation and that is self-sustaining given some basic “food” source. Building on previous work, here we investigate in more detail when and how autocatalytic sets can arise in a simple model of chemical evolution based on the idea of combinatorial innovation with random catalysis assignments. We derive theoretical results, and compare them with computer simulations. These results could suggest a possible step towards the (or an) origin of life.
Pharyngeal-Esophageal Malignancies with Dermatologic Paraneoplastic Syndrome
Authors: Fulga Ana , Cristea Ene Doriana , Bezman Laura Bujoreanu , Dragostin Oana Maria , Fulga Iuliu , Stamate Elena , Piraianu Alin Ionut , Bujoreanu Florin , Tatu Alin Laurentiu
Published: October 2022

Systemic changes often send signals to the skin, and certain neoplastic diseases of the internal organs can also trigger skin manifestations. In this article, the authors make clinical photography presentations of the patients seen at our clinic with dermatologic paraneoplastic syndromes within pharyngeal–esophageal malignancies, describe several paraneoplastic dermatoses, and also review high-quality scientific literature in order to be able to highlight the dermatological signs of pharyngoesophageal malignant tumors. The majority of our patients with paraneoplastic dermatoses, filtering for pharyngoesophageal malignancies, had esophageal neoplasms, out of whom seven were female and two were male, making esophageal cancer more common within the paraneoplastic dermatoses within pharyngoesophageal malignancies. An early recognition of paraneoplastic dermatoses can diagnose neoplasms and sequentially contribute to a better prognosis for the patient. This matter is also useful for front-line medical personnel in order to improve early diagnosis of the underlying malignancy, curative interventions with prompt therapy administration and good prognosis.
Glycyrrhizin Inhibits SARS-CoV-2 Entry into Cells by Targeting ACE2
Authors: He Ming-Feng , Liang Jian-Hui , Shen Yan-Ni , Zhang Jin-Wen , Liu Ying , Yang Kuang-Yang , Liu Li-Chu , Wang Junyi , Xie Qian , Hu Chun , Song Xun , Wang Yan
Published: October 2022

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a highly infectious and pathogenic disease caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Early in this epidemic, the herbal formulas used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) were widely used for the treatment of COVID-19 in China. According to Venn diagram analysis, we found that Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma is a frequent herb in TCM formulas against COVID-19. The extract of Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma exhibits an anti-SARS-CoV-2 replication activity in vitro, but its pharmacological mechanism remains unclear. We here demonstrate that glycyrrhizin, the main active ingredient of Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma, prevents the coronavirus from entering cells by targeting angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). Glycyrrhizin inhibited the binding of the spike protein of the SARS-CoV-2 to ACE2 in our Western blot-based assay. The following bulk RNA-seq analysis showed that glycyrrhizin down-regulated ACE2 expression in vitro which was further confirmed by Western blot and quantitative PCR. Together, we believe that glycyrrhizin inhibits SARS-CoV-2 entry into cells by targeting ACE2.
1-Phenyl-3,3-di(1H-pyrazol-1-yl)propan-1-one
Authors: Gotsko Maxim D. , Saliy Ivan V. , Vashchenko Alexander V. , Trofimov Boris A.
Published: October 2022

The title compound, 1-phenyl-3,3-di(1H-pyrazol-1-yl)propan-1-one, was synthesized in a 52% yield for the first time by a one-step reaction between 1H-pyrazole and 1-phenylprop-2-yn-1-one (their ratio being 2:1) in solid Al2O3 at room temperature. The product was characterized by 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, IR spectroscopy, X-Ray diffraction and elemental analysis.
Influence of Heat Accumulation on Morphology Debris Deposition and Wetting of LIPSS on Steel upon High Repetition Rate Femtosecond Pulses Irradiation
Authors: Florian Camilo , Fuentes-Edfuf Yasser , Skoulas Evangelos , Stratakis Emmanuel , Sanchez-Cortes Santiago , Solis Javier , Siegel Jan
Published: October 2022

The fabrication of laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) over extended areas at high processing speeds requires the use of high repetition rate femtosecond lasers. It is known that industrially relevant materials such as steel experience heat accumulation when irradiated at repetition rates above some hundreds of kHz, and significant debris redeposition can take place. However, there are few studies on how the laser repetition rate influences both the debris deposition and the final LIPSS morphology. In this work, we present a study of fs laser-induced fabrication of low spatial frequency LIPSS (LSFL), with pulse repetition rates ranging from 10 kHz to 2 MHz on commercially available steel. The morphology of the laser-structured areas as well as the redeposited debris was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and µ-Raman spectroscopy. To identify repetition rate ranges where heat accumulation is present during the irradiations, we developed a simple heat accumulation model that solves the heat equation in 1 dimension implementing a Forward differencing in Time and Central differencing in Space (FTCS) scheme. Contact angle measurements with water demonstrated the influence of heat accumulation and debris on the functional wetting behavior. The findings are directly relevant for the processing of metals using high repetition rate femtosecond lasers, enabling the identification of optimum conditions in terms of desired morphology, functionality, and throughput.
Comparison of Mechanical Properties of Composites Reinforced with Technical Embroidery, UD and Woven Fabric Made of Flax Fibers
Authors: Poniecka Agata , Barburski Marcin , Ranz David , Cuartero Jesús , Miralbes Ramon
Published: October 2022

The main purpose of the article is to present the possibilities of producing composite reinforcement with the use of a computer embroidery machine. The study below presents the results of strength tests of composites containing technical embroidery, woven fabric, and UD fabric as the reinforcement. Each of the samples was made of the same material—flax roving. The samples differed from each other in the arrangement of layers in the reinforcement. The composites were made using the infusion method with epoxy resin. The embroidery was made on a ZSK embroidery machine, type JCZA 0109-550. A total of 12 types of composites were produced and tested. The test material was subjected to strength tests—tensile strength, tensile elongation, and shear strength, on the INSTRON machine. As the research showed, the use of technical embroidery as a composite reinforcement increases its tensile strength. Furthermore, the use of embroidery is a vertical reinforcement of the composite and prevents the formation of interlayer cracks. The technology of technical embroidery allows for optimizing the mechanical values of the composite reinforcement.
Theoretical Investigation of Skyrmion Dynamics in Pt/Co/MgO Nanodots
Authors: Ourdani Djoudi , Belmeguenai Mohamed , Gabor Mihai , Stashkevich Andrey , Roussigné Yves
Published: October 2022

In this article, we present a numerical study on stabilization and eigenmodes of the so-called skyrmion chiral spin texture in nanometric dots. The first aim of this study is to identify the appropriate multilayer in a set of Pt/Co/MgO structures with different Co thicknesses that have been previously experimentally characterized. Stabilization occurs if the energy favoring skyrmions is greater than the geometric mean of the exchange and anisotropy energies. Both the energy favoring skyrmions and the anisotropy contribution depend on the Co thickness. The appropriate multilayer is obtained for a specific Co thickness. MuMax simulations are used to calculate the precise static magnetization configuration for the experimental parameters, allowing us select the appropriate structure. Moreover, in view of experimental study of skyrmion dynamics by means of Brillouin light scattering, the eigenfrequency, eigenmode profile, and spectral density are calculated for different dot sizes. Finally, the optimal dot size that allows for a feasible experiment is obtained.
Minimization of Adverse Effects Associated with Dental Alloys
Authors: Arakelyan Marianna , Spagnuolo Gianrico , Iaculli Flavia , Dikopova Natalya , Antoshin Artem , Timashev Peter , Turkina Anna
Published: October 2022

Metal alloys are one of the most popular materials used in current dental practice. In the oral cavity, metal structures are exposed to various mechanical and chemical factors. Consequently, metal ions are released into the oral fluid, which may negatively affect the surrounding tissues and even internal organs. Adverse effects associated with metallic oral appliances may have various local and systemic manifestations, such as mouth burning, potentially malignant oral lesions, and local or systemic hypersensitivity. However, clear diagnostic criteria and treatment guidelines for adverse effects associated with dental alloys have not been developed yet. The present comprehensive literature review aims (1) to summarize the current information related to possible side effects of metallic oral appliances; (2) to analyze the risk factors aggravating the negative effects of dental alloys; and (3) to develop recommendations for diagnosis, management, and prevention of pathological conditions associated with metallic oral appliances.
Radiopaque Crystalline, Non-Crystalline and Nanostructured Bioceramics
Authors: Montazerian Maziar , Gonçalves Geovanna V. S. , Barreto Maria E. V. , Lima Eunice P. N. , Cerqueira Glauber R. C. , Sousa Julyana A. , Malek Khachatourian Adrine , Souza Mairly K. S. , Silva Suédina M. L. , Fook Marcus V. L. , Baino Francesco
Published: October 2022

Radiopacity is sometimes an essential characteristic of biomaterials that can help clinicians perform follow-ups during pre- and post-interventional radiological imaging. Due to their chemical composition and structure, most bioceramics are inherently radiopaque but can still be doped/mixed with radiopacifiers to increase their visualization during or after medical procedures. The radiopacifiers are frequently heavy elements of the periodic table, such as Bi, Zr, Sr, Ba, Ta, Zn, Y, etc., or their relevant compounds that can confer enhanced radiopacity. Radiopaque bioceramics are also intriguing additives for biopolymers and hybrids, which are extensively researched and developed nowadays for various biomedical setups. The present work aims to provide an overview of radiopaque bioceramics, specifically crystalline, non-crystalline (glassy), and nanostructured bioceramics designed for applications in orthopedics, dentistry, and cancer therapy. Furthermore, the modification of the chemical, physical, and biological properties of parent ceramics/biopolymers due to the addition of radiopacifiers is critically discussed. We also point out future research lacunas in this exciting field that bioceramists can explore further.
Effect of Cold Rolling on Microstructural and Mechanical Properties of a Dual-Phase Steel for Automotive Field
Authors: Bassini Emilio , Marchese Giulio , Sivo Antonio , Martelli Pietro Antonio , Gullino Alessio , Ugues Daniele
Published: October 2022

A new advanced dual-phase (DP) steel characterized by ferrite and bainite presence in equal fractions has been studied within this paper. The anisotropy change of this steel was assessed as a progressively more severe cold rolling process was introduced. Specifically, tensile tests were used to build a strain-hardening curve, which describes the evolution of this DP steel’s mechanical properties as the thinning level increases from 20 to 70% with 10% step increments. As expected, the cold rolling process increases mechanical properties, profoundly altering the material’s microstructure, which was assessed in depth using Electron Backscatter Diffraction (EBSD) analysis coupled with the Kernel Average Misorientation (KAM) maps. At the same time, the process strongly modifies the material planar anisotropy. Microstructural and mechanical assessment and the Kocks–Mecking model applied to this steel evidenced that a 50% strain hardening makes the DP steel isotropic. The material retains or resumes anisotropic behavior for a lower or higher degree of deformation. Furthermore, the paper evaluated the forming limit of this DP steel and introduced geometric limitations to testing the thin steel plates’ mechanical properties.
Optimization of Process Parameters for ESR Waspaloy Superalloy by Numerical Simulation
Authors: Gao Jinguo , Yang Shulei , Zhao Peng , Yang Shufeng , Li Jingshe , Liu Wei , Zhang Changle
Published: October 2022

A transient numerical simulation method is used to investigate the temperature field, velocity field, and solidified field of large-size Waspaloy superalloy during the electroslag remelting (ESR) process. The effects of melting rate, filling rate, and thickness of the slag layer on the molten pool shape and dendrite arm spacing evolution have been discussed. The temperature in the slag pool is high and relatively uniformly distributed, the temperature range is 1690–1830 K. The highest temperature of the melt pool appears in the center of the slag–metal interface, 1686 K. There are two pairs of circulating vortices in the slag pool, the side vortices are caused by the density difference caused by the buoyancy of the slag, the center vortices are the result of the combined action of electromagnetic force and the momentum of the falling metal droplets. The molten pool depth and dendrite arm spacing increase with the increase of melting rate, but the slag layer thickness and electrode filling rate have little effect on the molten pool morphology and dendrite arm spacing if the droplet effect is not taken into account. Considering the morphology and depth of the molten pool as well as the size and distribution uniformity of the dendrite arm spacing, it is appropriate to maintain the melting rate at 5.8 kg/min for the industrial scale ESR process with the ingot diameter of 580 mm.
Pd-Ce-Ox/MWCNTs and Pt-Ce-Ox/MWCNTs Composite Materials: Morphology, Microstructure, and Catalytic Properties
Authors: Kibis Lidiya , Zadesenets Andrey , Garkul Ilia , Korobova Arina , Kardash Tatyana , Slavinskaya Elena , Stonkus Olga , Korenev Sergey , Podyacheva Olga , Boronin Andrei
Published: October 2022

The composite nanomaterials based on noble metals, reducible oxides, and nanostructured carbon are considered to be perspective catalysts for many useful reactions. In the present work, multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were used for the preparation of Pd-Ce-Ox/MWCNTs and Pt-Ce-Ox/MWCNTs catalysts comprising the active components (6 wt%Pd, 6 wt%Pt, 20 wt%CeO2) as highly dispersed nanoparticles, clusters, and single atoms. The application of X-ray diffraction (XRD) and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) provided analysis of the samples’ morphology and structure at the atomic level. For Pd-Ce-Ox/MWCNTs samples, the formation of PdO nanoparticles with an average crystallite size of ~8 nm was shown. Pt-Ce-Ox/MWCNTs catalysts comprised single Pt2+ ions and PtOx clusters less than 1 nm. A comparison of the catalytic properties of the samples showed higher activity of Pd-based catalysts in CO and CH4 oxidation reactions in a low-temperature range (T50 = 100 °C and T50 = 295 °C, respectively). However, oxidative pretreatment of the samples resulted in a remarkable enhancement of CO oxidation activity of Pt-Ce-Ox/MWCNTs catalyst at T < 20 °C (33% of CO conversion at T = 0 °C), while no changes were detected for the Pd-Ce-Ox/MWCNTs sample. The revealed catalytic effect was discussed in terms of the capability of the Pt-Ce-Ox/MWCNTs system to form unique PtOx clusters providing high catalytic activity in low-temperature CO oxidation.
Special Issue “Nuclear Physics: Effects of Radiation on Materials”
Authors: Aloisio Alberto , Campajola Marcello
Published: October 2022

Understanding radiation damage in materials has been a topic of great interest for many years and in multiple scientific sectors [...]
Europium(III)-Doped Gadolinium(III) Complex for High-Sensitivity Temperature Sensing in the Physiological Range
Authors: Soler-Carracedo Kevin , Díaz-González María , Martin Inocencio R. , Rios Susana , Gil-Hernández Beatriz , Brito-Santos Gabriela , Sanchiz Joaquín
Published: October 2022

A new Eu3+-doped Gd3+ complex of formula [Eu0.0135Gd0.9865(pta)3me-phen] was synthesized and structurally characterized (Hpta = benzoyltrifluoroacetone, me-phen = 5-methyl-1,10-phenanthroline). The photoluminescence study revealed that when the compound was excited at RT, under a 457 nm continuous laser, the material exhibited high luminescence due to the antenna effect of the ligands, as well as a good balance between the phosphorescence from the spin-forbidden triplet (from the organic ligands), and the characteristic lanthanide f-f transitions. The ratio between the previous emissions drastically changed when the sample was heated up to 62 °C inside a tubular furnace. This ratio was investigated using the luminescence intensity ratio method, to analyze the capabilities of the sample as a temperature sensor. The relative sensitivity reached a maximum of 11.4 °C−1 %, maintaining a detection limit below 0.15 °C for the whole temperature range.
Concept of Sustainable Demolition Process for Brickwork Buildings with Expanded Polystyrene Foam Insulation Using Mealworms of Tenebrio molitor
Authors: Przemieniecki Sebastian W. , Katzer Jacek , Kosewska Agnieszka , Kosewska Olga , Sowiński Paweł , Żeliszewska Paulina , Kalisz Barbara
Published: October 2022

The traditional demolition process for brickwork buildings results in a significant volume of mixed debris. The debris consists of ceramic bricks (and other wall elements), mortar, thermal insulation (usually expanded polystyrene or rockwool), smaller steel elements, pieces of wood, and glass. Such mixed debris is difficult to recycle. Separating thermal insulation that is “glued” by cement mortar to brickwork is probably the most difficult and time-consuming task in processing mixed debris. This task can be performed in a very different and fully “automatized” manner using Tenebrio molitor mealworms. The mealworms remove expanded polystyrene from brickwork surfaces and transform it into frass. In the paper, a research program aiming to prove the concept of using the mealworms of Tenebrio molitor for processing mixed debris is presented. The tests were conducted using two models of a three-layered brickwork wall, which is very common in Europe. The proposed approached was successful. Both types of used expanded polystyrene foam (EPS) were fully removed from multilayer wall specimens. The possibilities and limitations of the proposed processing method were discussed and analyzed. The conducted research proved that it is feasible to clean brickwork debris from the EPS using Tenebrio molitor mealworms. Differences in the speed of cleaning process regarding the type of EPS were noted. More research is needed to scale the process, and to find the best method for using frass. By using Tenebrio molitor mealworms, one can make the demolition process much cleaner.
Applications of Magneto Electrochemistry and Magnetohydrodynamics in Microfluidics
Authors: Bau Haim H.
Published: October 2022

Magnetic fields affect electrolytes in diverse ways. This paper focuses on the interactions among electric, magnetic, and flow fields and the applications of the resulting phenomena in microfluidics. When an electrical current is transmitted in an electrolyte in the presence of an external magnetic field, a Lorentz body force results, which may induce pressure gradients and fluid motion—magnetohydrodynamics (MHD). The resulting advection is used to pump fluids, induce/suppress flow instabilities, and control mass transfer in diverse electrochemical processes. When an electrolyte flows in the presence of a magnetic field, electromotive force (emf) is induced in the electrolyte and can be used for flow metering, hydrogen production, and energy conversion. This review describes the governing equations for modeling MHD flows in electrolytes and MHD phenomena and applications relevant to microfluidic systems, such as the use of MHD to pump and stir fluids, propel swimmers, and control fluid flow in fluidic networks without any mechanical components. The paper also briefly assesses the impact of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) on blood flow. MHD in electrolytes is a highly interdisciplinary, combining electrokinetics, fluid mechanics, electrochemistry, and Maxwell equations.
New Theonellapeptolides from Indonesian Marine Sponge Theonella swinhoei as Anti-Austerity Agents
Authors: Haedar Jabal Rahmat , Uria Agustinus Robert , Lallo Subehan , Dibwe Dya Fita , Wakimoto Toshiyuki
Published: October 2022

We reported three new members of the theonellapeptolide family from theonellapeptolide II series, namely theonellapeptolides IIb (1), IIa (2), IIc (3), and three known members—IId (4), IIe (5), and Id (6)—from Kodingarengan marine sponge Theonella swinhoei collected in Makassar, Indonesia. The structures of tridecadepsipeptides 1–3, including the absolute configurations of their amino acids, were determined by the integrated NMR and tandem MS analyses followed by Marfey’s analysis. To the best of our knowledge, 1 and 2 are the first theonellapeptolide-type compounds to have a valine residue with D configuration at residue position 6. The isolated theonellapeptolide-type compounds 1–6 showed selective cytotoxic activity against human pancreatic MIA PaCa-2 cancer cells in a nutrient-deprived medium. Among them, the most potent preferential cytotoxicity was observed in new theonellapeptolide IIc (3) and known IId (4), IIe (5), and Id (6).
Psammaplysins: Insights from Natural Sources, Structural Variations, and Pharmacological Properties
Authors: Youssef Diaa T. A. , Shaala Lamiaa A.
Published: October 2022

Marine natural products (MNPs) continue to be in the spotlight in the global drug discovery endeavor. Currently, more than 32,000 structurally diverse secondary metabolites from marine sources have been isolated, making MNPs a vital source for researchers to look for novel drug candidates. The marine-derived psammaplysins possess the rare and unique 1,6-dioxa-2-azaspiro [4.6] undecane backbone and are represented by 44 compounds in the literature, mostly from sponges of the order Verongiida. Compounds with 1,6-dioxa-2-azaspiro [4.6] undecane moiety exist in the literature under five names, including psammaplysins, ceratinamides, frondoplysins, ceratinadins, and psammaceratins. These compounds displayed significant biological properties including growth inhibitory, antimalarial, antifouling, protein tyrosine phosphatase inhibition, antiviral, immunosuppressive, and antioxidant effects. In this review, a comprehensive literature survey covering natural occurrence of the psammaplysins and related compounds, methods of isolation, structural differences, the biogenesis, and biological/pharmacological properties, will be presented.
Valorization of Fish Waste: Isolation and Characterization of Acid- and Pepsin-Soluble Collagen from the Scales of Mediterranean Fish and Fabrication of Collagen-Based Nanofibrous Scaffolds
Authors: Tziveleka Leto-Aikaterini , Kikionis Stefanos , Karkatzoulis Labros , Bethanis Kostas , Roussis Vassilios , Ioannou Efstathia
Published: October 2022

In search of alternative and sustainable sources of collagenous materials for biomedical applications, the scales of five Mediterranean fish species—fished in high tonnage in the Mediterranean region since they represent popular choices for the local diet—as well as those of the Atlantic salmon for comparison purposes, were comparatively studied for their acid- and pepsin-soluble collagen content. Fish scales that currently represent a discarded biomass of no value could be efficiently exploited for the production of a high added-value biomaterial. The isolated collagenous materials, which showed the typical electrophoretic patterns of type I collagen, were morphologically and physicochemically characterized. Using scanning electron microscopy the fibrous morphology of the isolated collagens was confirmed, while the hydroxyproline content, in conjunction with infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction studies verified the characteristic for collagen amino acid profile and its secondary structure. The acid- and pepsin-soluble collagens isolated from the fish scales were blended with the bioactive sulfated marine polysaccharide ulvan and polyethylene oxide and electrospun to afford nanofibrous scaffolds that could find applications in the biomedical sector.
Electrolysis as a Universal Approach for Isolation of Diverse Chitin Scaffolds from Selected Marine Demosponges
Authors: Nowacki Krzysztof , Galiński Maciej , Fursov Andriy , Voronkina Alona , Meissner Heike , Petrenko Iaroslav , Stelling Allison L. , Ehrlich Hermann
Published: October 2022

Three-dimensional chitinous scaffolds often used in regenerative medicine, tissue engineering, biomimetics and technology are mostly isolated from marine organisms, such as marine sponges (Porifera). In this work, we report the results of the electrochemical isolation of the ready to use chitinous matrices from three species of verongiid demosponges (Aplysina archeri, Ianthella basta and Suberea clavata) as a perfect example of possible morphological and chemical dimorphism in the case of the marine chitin sources. The electrolysis of concentrated Na2SO4 aqueous solution showed its superiority over the chemical chitin isolation method in terms of the treatment time reduction: only 5.5 h for A. archeri, 16.5 h for I. basta and 20 h for the S. clavata sample. Further investigation of the isolated scaffolds by digital microscopy and SEM showed that the electrolysis-supported isolation process obtains chitinous scaffolds with well-preserved spatial structure and it can be competitive to other alternative chitin isolation techniques that use external accelerating factors such as microwave irradiation or atmospheric plasma. Moreover, the infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) proved that with the applied electrochemical conditions, the transformation into chitosan does not take place.