bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the Chemical Composition of Selected Varieties of L. caerulea var. kamtschatica and L. caerulea var. emphyllocalyx
Authors: Gorzelany Józef , Basara Oskar , Kapusta Ireneusz , Paweł Korfanty , Belcar Justyna
Published: March 2023

Lonicera caerulea fruits are a rich source of vitamins, organic acids, and phenolic compounds, which are characterised by their health-promoting properties. The content of bioactive compounds in this fruit may vary depending on the cultivar and the harvest date. The fruits of the L. caerulea var. kamtschatica cultivars ‘Duet’ and ‘Aurora’ and the L. caerulea var. emphyllocalyx cultivars ‘Lori’, ‘Colin’ and ‘Willa’ were used in this study. L. emphyllocalyx fruit, especially the cultivar ‘Willa’, was characterised as having a higher acidity by an average of 29.96% compared to L. kamtschatica. The average ascorbic acid content of the L. kamtschatica fruit was 53.5 mg·100 g−1 f.w., while L. emphyllocalyx fruit had an average content that was 14.14% lower. The antioxidant activity (determined by DPPH, FRAP, and ABTS) varied according to the cultivar and the species of fruit analysed. The total polyphenol content differed significantly depending on the cultivar analysed; fruits of the L. emphyllocalyx cultivar ‘Willa’ were characterised by the lowest content of total polyphenols—416.94 mg GAE·100 g−1 f.w.—while the highest content of total polyphenols—747.85 GAE·100 g−1 f.w.—was found in the fruits of the L. emphyllocalyx cultivar ‘Lori’. Lonicera caerulea fruits contained 26 different phenolic compounds in their compositions, of which the highest content was characterised by cyanidin 3-O-glucoside (average: 347.37 mg·100 g−1). On the basis of this study, it appears that both L. kamtschatica fruits and L. emphyllocalyx fruits, especially of the cultivars ‘Lori’ and ‘Willa’, can be used in food processing.
Periphery Exploration around 2,6-Diazaspiro[3.4]octane Core Identifies a Potent Nitrofuran Antitubercular Lead
Authors: Lukin Alexei , Komarova Kristina , Vinogradova Lyubov , Dogonadze Marine , Vinogradova Tatiana , Yablonsky Piotr , Kazantsev Alexander , Krasavin Mikhail
Published: March 2023

A small set of twelve compounds of a nitrofuran carboxamide chemotype was elaborated from a readily available 2,6-diazaspiro[3.4]octane building block, exploring diverse variants of the molecular periphery, including various azole substituents. The in vitro inhibitory activities of the synthesized compounds were assessed against Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv. As a result, a remarkably potent antitubercular lead displaying a minimal inhibitory concentration of 0.016 μg/mL was identified.
Clot Imaging Using Photostable Nanodiamond
Authors: Francis Samuel J. , Torelli Marco D. , Nunn Nicholas A. , Arepally Gowthami M. , Shenderova Olga A.
Published: March 2023

While thrombosis is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States, an understanding of its triggers, progression, and response to anticoagulant therapy is lacking. Intravital fluorescence microscopy has advanced the study of thrombus formation by providing targeted, multi-color contrast. However, photodegradation of fluorophores limits the application in longitudinal studies (e.g., clot progression and/or dissolution). Fluorescent nanodiamond (FND) is a fluorophore which utilizes intrinsic fluorescence of chromogenic centers within and protected by the diamond crystalline lattice. Recent developments in diamond processing have allowed for the controlled production of nanodiamonds emitting in green or red. Here, the use of FND to label blood clots and/or clot lysis is demonstrated and compared to commonly used organic fluorophores. Model ex vivo clots were formed with incorporated labeled fibrinogen to allow imaging. FND was shown to match the morphology of organic fluorophore labels absent of photobleaching over time. The addition of tissue plasminogen activator (tPa) allowed visualization of the clot lysis stage, which is vital to studies of both DVT and pulmonary embolism resolution.
Investigation of Soft Matter Nanomechanics by Atomic Force Microscopy and Optical Tweezers: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Magazzù Alessandro , Marcuello Carlos
Published: March 2023

Soft matter exhibits a multitude of intrinsic physico-chemical attributes. Their mechanical properties are crucial characteristics to define their performance. In this context, the rigidity of these systems under exerted load forces is covered by the field of biomechanics. Moreover, cellular transduction processes which are involved in health and disease conditions are significantly affected by exogenous biomechanical actions. In this framework, atomic force microscopy (AFM) and optical tweezers (OT) can play an important role to determine the biomechanical parameters of the investigated systems at the single-molecule level. This review aims to fully comprehend the interplay between mechanical forces and soft matter systems. In particular, we outline the capabilities of AFM and OT compared to other classical bulk techniques to determine nanomechanical parameters such as Young’s modulus. We also provide some recent examples of nanomechanical measurements performed using AFM and OT in hydrogels, biopolymers and cellular systems, among others. We expect the present manuscript will aid potential readers and stakeholders to fully understand the potential applications of AFM and OT to soft matter systems.
Graphene Oxides (GOs) with Different Lateral Dimensions and Thicknesses Affect the Molecular Response in Chironomus riparius
Authors: Martin-Folgar Raquel , Esteban-Arranz Adrián , Negri Viviana , Morales Mónica
Published: March 2023

Graphene oxide (GO) materials possess physicochemical properties that facilitate their application in the industrial and medical sectors. The use of graphene may pose a threat to biota, especially aquatic life. In addition, the properties of nanomaterials can differentially affect cell and molecular responses. Therefore, it is essential to study and define the possible genotoxicity of GO materials to aquatic organisms and their ecosystems. In this study, we investigated the changes in the expression of 11 genes in the aquatic organism Chironomus riparius after 96 h of exposure to small GOs (sGO), large GOs (lGO) and monolayer GOs (mlGO) at 50, 500 and 3000 μg/L. Results showed that the different genes encoding heat shock proteins (hsp90, hsp70 and hsp27) were overexpressed after exposure to these nanomaterials. In addition, ATM and NLK—the genes involved in DNA repair mechanisms—were altered at the transcriptional level. DECAY, an apoptotic caspase, was only activated by larger size GO materials, mlGO and lGO. Finally, the gene encoding manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) showed higher expression in the mlG O-treated larvae. The lGO and mlGO treatments indicated high mRNA levels of a developmental gene (FKBP39) and an endocrine pathway-related gene (DRONC). These two genes were only activated by the larger GO materials. The results indicate that larger and thicker GO nanomaterials alter the transcription of genes involved in cellular stress, oxidative stress, DNA damage, apoptosis, endocrine and development in C. riparius. This shows that various cellular processes are modified and affected, providing some of the first evidence for the action mechanisms of GOs in invertebrates. In short, the alterations produced by graphene materials should be further studied to evaluate their effect on the biota to show a more realistic scenario of what is happening at the molecular level.
Combining Machine Learning and Molecular Dynamics to Predict Mechanical Properties and Microstructural Evolution of FeNiCrCoCu High-Entropy Alloys
Authors: Yu Jingui , Yu Faping , Fu Qiang , Zhao Gang , Gong Caiyun , Wang Mingchao , Zhang Qiaoxin
Published: March 2023

Compared with traditional alloys, high-entropy alloys have better mechanical properties and corrosion resistance. However, their mechanical properties and microstructural evolution behavior are unclear due to their complex composition. Machine learning has powerful data processing and analysis capabilities, that provides technical advantages for in-depth study of the mechanical properties of high-entropy alloys. Thus, we combined machine learning and molecular dynamics to predict the mechanical properties of FeNiCrCoCu high-entropy alloys. The optimal multiple linear regression machine learning algorithm predicts that the optimal composition is Fe33Ni32Cr11Co11Cu13 high-entropy alloy, with a tensile strength of 28.25 GPa. Furthermore, molecular dynamics is used to verify the predicted mechanical properties of high-entropy alloys, and it is found that the error between the tensile strength predicted by machine learning and the tensile strength obtained by molecular dynamics simulation is within 0.5%. Moreover, the tensile-compression asymmetry of Fe33Ni32Cr11Co11Cu13 high-entropy alloy increased with the increase of temperature and Cu content and the decrease of Fe content. This is due to the increase in stress caused by twinning during compression and the decrease in stress due to dislocation slip during stretching. Interestingly, high-entropy alloy coatings reduce the tensile-compression asymmetry of nickel; this is attributed to the reduced influence of dislocations and twinning at the interface between the high-entropy alloy and the nickel matrix.
CeO2 Nanoparticles-Regulated Plasmid Uptake and Bioavailability for Reducing Transformation of Extracellular Antibiotic Resistance Genes
Authors: Xu Yinuo , Du Hao , Wang Chuanxi , Yue Le , Chen Feiran , Wang Zhenyu
Published: March 2023

The direct uptake of extracellular DNA (eDNA) via transformation facilitates the dissemination of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in the environment. CeO2 nanoparticles (NPs) have potential in the regulation of conjugation-dominated ARGs propagation, whereas their effects on ARGs transformation remain largely unknown. Here, CeO2 NPs at concentrations lower than 50 mg L−1 have been applied to regulate the transformation of plasmid-borne ARGs to competent Escherichia coli (E. coli) cells. Three types of exposure systems were established to optimize the regulation efficiency. Pre-incubation of competent E. coli cells with CeO2 NPs at 0.5 mg L−1 inhibited the transformation (35.4%) by reducing the ROS content (0.9-fold) and cell membrane permeability (0.9-fold), thereby down-regulating the expression of genes related to DNA uptake and processing (bhsA, ybaV, and nfsB, 0.7–0.8 folds). Importantly, CeO2 NPs exhibited an excellent binding capacity with the plasmids, decreasing the amounts of plasmids available for cellular uptake and down-regulating the gene expression of DNA uptake (bhsA, ybaV, and recJ, 0.6–0.7 folds). Altogether, pre-exposure of plasmids with CeO2 NPs (10 and 25 mg L−1) suppressed the transformation with an efficiency of 44.5–51.6%. This study provides a nano-strategy for controlling the transformation of ARGs, improving our understanding on the mechanisms of nanomaterial-mediated ARGs propagation.
Plasma-Assisted Atomic Layer Deposition of IrO2 for Neuroelectronics
Authors: Di Palma Valerio , Pianalto Andrea , Perego Michele , Tallarida Graziella , Codegoni Davide , Fanciulli Marco
Published: March 2023

In vitro and in vivo stimulation and recording of neuron action potential is currently achieved with microelectrode arrays, either in planar or 3D geometries, adopting different materials and strategies. IrO2 is a conductive oxide known for its excellent biocompatibility, good adhesion on different substrates, and charge injection capabilities higher than noble metals. Atomic layer deposition (ALD) allows excellent conformal growth, which can be exploited on 3D nanoelectrode arrays. In this work, we disclose the growth of nanocrystalline rutile IrO2 at T = 150 °C adopting a new plasma-assisted ALD (PA-ALD) process. The morphological, structural, physical, chemical, and electrochemical properties of the IrO2 thin films are reported. To the best of our knowledge, the electrochemical characterization of the electrode/electrolyte interface in terms of charge injection capacity, charge storage capacity, and double-layer capacitance for IrO2 grown by PA-ALD was not reported yet. IrO2 grown on PtSi reveals a double-layer capacitance (Cdl) above 300 µF∙cm−2, and a charge injection capacity of 0.22 ± 0.01 mC∙cm−2 for an electrode of 1.0 cm2, confirming IrO2 grown by PA-ALD as an excellent material for neuroelectronic applications.
Application of Computational Data Modeling to a Large-Scale Population Cohort Assists the Discovery of Inositol as a Strain-Specific Substrate for Faecalibacterium prausnitzii
Authors: Dogra Shaillay Kumar , Dardinier Adrien , Mainardi Fabio , Siegwald Léa , Bartova Simona , Le Roy Caroline , Chou Chieh Jason
Published: March 2023

Faecalibacterium prausnitzii (F. prausnitzii) is a bacterial taxon in the human gut with anti-inflammatory properties, and this may contribute to the beneficial effects of healthy eating habits. However, little is known about the nutrients that enhance the growth of F. prausnitzii other than simple sugars and fibers. Here, we combined dietary and microbiome data from the American Gut Project (AGP) to identify nutrients that may be linked to the relative abundance of F. prausnitzii. Using a machine learning approach in combination with univariate analyses, we identified that sugar alcohols, carbocyclic sugar, and vitamins may contribute to F. prausnitzii growth. We next explored the effects of these nutrients on the growth of two F. prausnitzii strains in vitro and observed robust and strain-dependent growth patterns on sorbitol and inositol, respectively. In the context of a complex community using in vitro fermentation, neither inositol alone nor in combinations with vitamin B exerted a significant growth-promoting effect on F. prausnitzii, partly due to high variability among the fecal microbiota community from four healthy donors. However, the fecal communities that showed an increase in F. prausnitzii on inulin also responded with at least 60% more F. prausnitzii on any of inositol containing media than control. Future nutritional studies aiming to increase the relative abundance of F. prausnitzii should explore a personalized approach accounting for strain-level genetic variations and community-level microbiome composition.
Elexacaftor-Tezacaftor-Ivacaftor: A Life-Changing Triple Combination of CFTR Modulator Drugs for Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Bacalhau Mafalda , Camargo Mariana , Magalhães-Ghiotto Grace A. V. , Drumond Sybelle , Castelletti Carlos Henrique M. , Lopes-Pacheco Miquéias
Published: March 2023

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a potentially fatal monogenic disease that causes a progressive multisystemic pathology. Over the last decade, the introduction of CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) modulator drugs into clinical practice has profoundly modified the lives of many people with CF (PwCF) by targeting the fundamental cause of the disease. These drugs consist of the potentiator ivacaftor (VX-770) and the correctors lumacaftor (VX-809), tezacaftor (VX-661), and elexacaftor (VX-445). In particular, the triple combination of CFTR modulators composed of elexacaftor, tezacaftor, and ivacaftor (ETI) represents a life-changing therapy for the majority of PwCF worldwide. A growing number of clinical studies have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of ETI therapy in both short- and long-term (up to two years of follow-up to date) and its ability to significantly reduce pulmonary and gastrointestinal manifestations, sweat chloride concentration, exocrine pancreatic dysfunction, and infertility/subfertility, among other disease signs and symptoms. Nevertheless, ETI therapy-related adverse effects have also been reported, and close monitoring by a multidisciplinary healthcare team remains vital. This review aims to address and discuss the major therapeutic benefits and adverse effects reported by the clinical use of ETI therapy for PwCF.
A Pilot Study Exploiting the Industrialization Potential of Solid Lipid Nanoparticle-Based Metered-Dose Inhalers
Authors: Shu Lei , Wang Wenhua , Ng Chon-iong , Zhang Xuejuan , Huang Ying , Wu Chuanbin , Pan Xin , Huang Zhengwei
Published: March 2023

Background: Delivery of inhalable nanoparticles through metered-dose inhalers (MDI) is a promising approach to treat lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Nanocoating of the inhalable nanoparticles helps in stability and cellular uptake enhancement but complicates the production process. Thus, it is meaningful to accelerate the translation process of MDI encapsulating inhalable nanoparticles with nanocoating structure. Methods: In this study, solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) are selected as a model inhalable nanoparticle system. An established reverse microemulsion strategy was utilized to explore the industrialization potential of SLN-based MDI. Three categories of nanocoating with the functions of stabilization (by Poloxamer 188, encoded as SLN(0)), cellular uptake enhancement (by cetyltrimethylammonium bromide, encoded as SLN(+)), and targetability (by hyaluronic acid, encoded as SLN(−)) were constructed upon SLN, whose particle size distribution and zeta-potential were characterized. Subsequently, SLN were loaded into MDI, and evaluated for the processing reliability, physicochemical nature, formulation stability, and biocompatibility. Results: The results elucidated that three types of SLN-based MDI were successfully fabricated with good reproducibility and stability. Regarding safety, SLN(0) and SLN(−) showed negligible cytotoxicity on cellular level. Conclusions: This work serves as a pilot study for the scale-up of SLN-based MDI, and could be useful for the future development of inhalable nanoparticles.
Nucleotides Entrapped in Liposome Nanovesicles as Tools for Therapeutic and Diagnostic Use in Biomedical Applications
Authors: Cardador Camila Magalhães , Muehlmann Luis Alexandre , Coelho Cíntia Marques , Silva Luciano Paulino , Garay Aisel Valle , Carvalho Alexandra Maria dos Santos , Bastos Izabela Marques Dourado , Longo João Paulo Figueiró
Published: March 2023

The use of nucleotides for biomedical applications is an old desire in the scientific community. As we will present here, there are references published over the past 40 years with this intended use. The main problem is that, as unstable molecules, nucleotides require some additional protection to extend their shelf life in the biological environment. Among the different nucleotide carriers, the nano-sized liposomes proved to be an effective strategic tool to overcome all these drawbacks related to the nucleotide high instability. Moreover, due to their low immunogenicity and easy preparation, the liposomes were selected as the main strategy for delivery of the mRNA developed for COVID-19 immunization. For sure this is the most important and relevant example of nucleotide application for human biomedical conditions. In addition, the use of mRNA vaccines for COVID-19 has increased interest in the application of this type of technology to other health conditions. For this review article, we will present some of these examples, especially focused on the use of liposomes to protect and deliver nucleotides for cancer therapy, immunostimulatory activities, enzymatic diagnostic applications, some examples for veterinarian use, and the treatment of neglected tropical disease.
Effect of Alkaline Conditions on Forming an Effective G4.0 PAMAM Complex with Doxorubicin
Authors: Szota Magdalena , Jachimska Barbara
Published: March 2023

In this study, special attention was paid to the correlation between the degree of ionization of the components and the effective formation of the complex under alkaline conditions. Using UV-Vis, 1H NMR, and CD, structural changes of the drug depending on the pH were monitored. In the pH range of 9.0 to 10.0, the G4.0 PAMAM dendrimer can bind 1 to 10 DOX molecules, while the efficiency increases with the concentration of the drug relative to the carrier. The binding efficiency was described by the parameters of loading content (LC = 4.80–39.20%) and encapsulation efficiency (EE = 17.21–40.16%), whose values increased twofold or even fourfold depending on the conditions. The highest efficiency was obtained for G4.0PAMAM-DOX at a molar ratio of 1:24. Nevertheless, regardless of the conditions, the DLS study indicates system aggregation. Changes in the zeta potential confirm the immobilization of an average of two drug molecules on the dendrimer’s surface. Circular dichroism spectra analysis shows a stable dendrimer-drug complex for all the systems obtained. Since the doxorubicin molecule can simultaneously act as a therapeutic and an imaging agent, the theranostic properties of the PAMAM-DOX system have been demonstrated by the high fluorescence intensity observable on fluorescence microscopy.
Dendrimers in Alzheimer’s Disease: Recent Approaches in Multi-Targeting Strategies
Authors: Arbez-Gindre Cécile , Steele Barry R. , Micha-Screttas Maria
Published: March 2023

Nanomaterials play an increasingly important role in current medicinal practice. As one of the most significant causes of human mortality, and one that is increasing year by year, Alzheimer’s disease (AD) has been the subject of a very great body of research and is an area in which nanomedicinal approaches show great promise. Dendrimers are a class of multivalent nanomaterials which can accommodate a wide range of modifications that enable them to be used as drug delivery systems. By means of suitable design, they can incorporate multiple functionalities to enable transport across the blood–brain barrier and subsequently target the diseased areas of the brain. In addition, a number of dendrimers by themselves often display therapeutic potential for AD. In this review, the various hypotheses relating to the development of AD and the proposed therapeutic interventions involving dendrimer–base systems are outlined. Special attention is focused on more recent results and on the importance of aspects such as oxidative stress, neuroinflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction in approaches to the design of new treatments.
Research on the Linear Demodulation Range and Background Noise of Fiber-Optic Interferometer System
Authors: Wang Weitao , Wang Chen , Qu Shuai , Qi Haifeng , Song Zhiqiang , Jiang Pengbo , Guo Jian , Shang Ying , Ni Jiasheng , Peng Gangding
Published: March 2023

The linear demodulation range and background noise of the Michelson interferometer system are investigated with a laser phase noise measurement system. We have theoretically and experimentally analyzed the performance of the interferometer system by changing the frequency modulation amplitude of the laser and the optical path difference (OPD) of the interferometer, respectively. It is shown that the linear demodulation range of the Michelson interferometer system is finite, which depends on the parameters of the system, such as the sample frequency, the delay time between two interferometer arms, and the system bandwidth. Furthermore, the experimental results indicate that the background noise of the interferometer system can be reduced by using a sufficiently long OPD so that the smaller true phase information can be detected with the demodulation system. The parameters of the measurement system could be optimized to satisfy the demand of the phase demodulation with different levels, which is of great significance for the phase monitoring interrogator, such as fiber-optical interferometer sensors and distributed acoustic sensors.
Major Bioactive Compounds from Java Plum Seeds: An Investigation of Its Extraction Procedures and Clinical Effects
Authors: Das Gitishree , Nath Rajat , Das Talukdar Anupam , Ağagündüz Duygu , Yilmaz Birsen , Capasso Raffaele , Shin Han-Seung , Patra Jayanta Kumar
Published: March 2023

Java plum is widely recognized as a plant with valuable medicinal properties, originating from Indonesia and India and distributed globally in the tropic and sub-tropic regions of the world. The plant is rich in alkaloids, flavonoids, phenyl propanoids, terpenes, tannins, and lipids. The phytoconstituents of the plant seeds possess various vital pharmacological activities and clinical effects including their antidiabetic potential. The bioactive phytoconstituents of Java plum seeds include jambosine, gallic acid, quercetin, β-sitosterol, ferulic acid, guaiacol, resorcinol, p-coumaric acid, corilagin, ellagic acid, catechin, epicatechin, tannic acid, 4,6 hexahydroxydiphenoyl glucose, 3,6-hexahydroxy diphenoylglucose, 1-galloylglucose, and 3-galloylglucose. Considering all the potential beneficial effects of the major bioactive compounds present in the Jamun seeds, in the current investigation, the specific clinical effects and the mechanism of action for the major bioactive compounds along with the extraction procedures are discussed.
Recent Developments in Polyphenol Applications on Human Health: A Review with Current Knowledge
Authors: Rathod Nikheel Bhojraj , Elabed Nariman , Punia Sneh , Ozogul Fatih , Kim Se-Kwon , Rocha João Miguel
Published: March 2023

Polyphenol has been used in treatment for some health disorders due to their diverse health promoting properties. These compounds can reduce the impacts of oxidation on the human body, prevent the organs and cell structure against deterioration and protect their functional integrity. The health promoting abilities are attributed to their high bioactivity imparting them high antioxidative, antihypertensive, immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, and antiviral activity, as well as anticancer properties. The application of polyphenols such as flavonoids, catechin, tannins, and phenolic acids in the food industry as bio-preservative substances for foods and beverages can exert a superb activity on the inhibition of oxidative stress via different types of mechanisms. In this review, the detailed classification of polyphenolic compunds and their important bioactivity with special focus on human health are addressed. Additionally, their ability to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 could be used as alternative therapy to treat COVID patients. Inclusions of polyphenolic compounds in various foods have demonstrated their ability to extend shelf life and they positive impacts on human health (antioxidative, antihypertensive, immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, anticancer). Additionally, their ability to inhibit the SARS-CoV-2 virus has been reported. Considering their natural occurrence and GRAS status they are highly recommended in food.
Biochemical and Molecular Responses Underlying the Contrasting Phosphorus Use Efficiency in Ryegrass Cultivars
Authors: Pontigo Sofía , Parra-Almuna Leyla , Luengo-Escobar Ana , Poblete-Grant Patricia , Nunes-Nesi Adriano , Mora María de la Luz , Cartes Paula
Published: March 2023

Improving plant ability to acquire and efficiently utilize phosphorus (P) is a promising approach for developing sustainable pasture production. This study aimed to identify ryegrass cultivars with contrasting P use efficiency, and to assess their associated biochemical and molecular responses. Nine ryegrass cultivars were hydroponically grown under optimal (0.1 mM) or P-deficient (0.01 mM) conditions, and P uptake, dry biomass, phosphorus acquisition efficiency (PAE) and phosphorus utilization efficiency (PUE) were evaluated. Accordingly, two cultivars with high PAE but low PUE (Ansa and Stellar), and two cultivars with low PAE and high PUE (24Seven and Extreme) were selected to analyze the activity and gene expression of acid phosphatases (APases), as well as the transcript levels of P transporters. Our results showed that ryegrass cultivars with high PAE were mainly influenced by root-related responses, including the expression of genes codifying for the P transporter LpPHT1;4, purple acid phosphatase LpPAP1 and APase activity. Moreover, the traits that contributed greatly to enhanced PUE were the expression of LpPHT1;1/4 and LpPHO1;2, and the APase activity in shoots. These outcomes could be useful to evaluate and develop cultivars with high P-use efficiency, thus contributing to improve the management of P in grassland systems.
The Influence of Bacteria-Inoculated Mineral Fertilizer on the Productivity and Profitability of Spring Barley Cultivation
Authors: Anušauskas Justinas , Steponavičius Dainius , Romaneckas Kęstutis , Lekavičienė Kristina , Zaleckas Ernestas , Sendžikienė Eglė
Published: March 2023

The heavy use of mineral fertilizers causes imbalances in the biological processes that take place in soil. Therefore, it is necessary to develop more effective fertilizers or fertilizer complexes that ensure agricultural productivity and soil conservation. There is currently a lack of knowledge regarding the effectiveness of biologically enriched, complex mineral fertilizers for spring barley fertilization. The hypothesis of this study was that bacteria-enriched (Paenibacillus azotofixans, Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus mucilaginosus, and Bacillus mycoides), complex mineral fertilizers (N5P20.5K36) have significant impacts on the yield and potential for economic use of spring barley. Experimental studies were carried out for three years (2020–2022) with sandy loam soil in southern Lithuania. Four different spring barley fertilization scenarios (SCs) were investigated. In SC-1 (control), complex mineral fertilizer (N5P20.5K36) was not applied. In the other SCs, spring barley was sown with a drill and fertilizers were incorporated locally during the sowing operation: fertilization scenario SC-2 used 300 kg ha−1, SC-3 used 150 kg ha−1 preceded by a bacteria-inoculated complex mineral fertilizer (N5P20.5K36), and SC-4 used 300 kg ha−1 with the same bacterial complex. The results showed that the bacterial inoculant increased the efficiency of the mineral fertilizer and had an effect on plant growth in barley. For three consecutive years in the same plots, the bacterial inoculant showed significant positive effects on grain yield (changes of 8.1% in 2020, 6.8% in 2021, and 17.3% in 2022 between SC-2 and SC-4). Comparing the several different fertilizer scenarios from an economic point of view, it was observed that the highest profit per hectare was obtained with SC-4 in all three years of the study. Comparing SC-4 and SC-2, an increase of 13.7% was observed in 2020, followed by 9.1% and 41.9% in 2021 and in 2022, respectively. This study will be useful for farmers, biological inoculant manufacturers, and scientists researching the effectiveness of biological inoculants for growing agricultural crops. We found that it is possible to increase the yield of barley (7–17%) using the same rate of mineral fertilization by enriching it with bacterial inoculants. Further studies should be conducted to determine the effects of the bacterial inoculant on crop yield and soil over a period longer than 3 years.
Self-Supporting Flexible Paper-Based Electrode Reinforced by Gradient Network Structure
Authors: Kang Shaoran , Li Zhijian , Li Jinbao , Wei Hairu , Guo Yanbo , Li Haiwen , Yan Peng , Wu Haiwei
Published: March 2023

At present, the self-supporting paper-based electrode has some problems, such as low mechanical strength and insufficient flexibility, which restrict its application in flexible electronics. In this paper, FWF is used as the skeleton fiber, and the contact area and the number of hydrogen bonds of the fiber are increased by grinding the fiber and adding nanofibers to bridge it, and a level three gradient enhanced skeleton support network structure is constructed, which effectively improves the mechanical strength and foldability of the paper-based electrodes. The tensile strength of FWF15-BNF5 paper-based electrode is 7.4 MPa, the elongation at break is increased to 3.7%, the electrode thickness is as low as 66 μm, the electrical conductivities is 5.6 S cm−1, and the contact angle to electrolyte as low as 45°, which has excellent electrolyte wettability, flexibility, and foldability. After three-layer superimposed rolling, the discharge areal capacity reached 3.3 mAh cm−2 and 2.9 mAh cm−2 at the rate of 0.1 C and 1.5 C, respectively, which was superior to the commercial LFP electrode, it had good cycle stability, and the areal capacity was 3.0 mAh cm−2 and 2.8 mAh cm−2 after 100 cycles at the rate of 0.3 C and 1.5 C.
Temperature-Dependent Circularly Polarized Luminescence of a Cholesteric Copolymer Doped with a Europium Complex
Authors: Bobrovsky Alexey , Piryazev Alexey , Ivanov Dimitri , Kozlov Makarii , Utochnikova Valentina
Published: March 2023

The design of new materials for non-contact temperature sensors is an important task for scientists working in the fields of chemistry, physics, and materials science. In the present paper, a novel cholesteric mixture based on a copolymer doped with a highly luminescent europium complex was prepared and studied. It was found that the spectral position of the selective reflection peak strongly depends on temperature and a shift towards shorter wavelengths is observed upon heating with an amplitude of more than 70 nm, from the red to green spectral range. This shift is associated with the existence and melting of clusters of smectic order, as confirmed by X-ray diffraction investigations. The extreme temperature dependence of the wavelength of selective light reflection provides a high thermosensitivity of the degree of circular polarization of the europium complex emission. The highest values of the dissymmetry factor are observed when the peak of selective light reflection fully overlaps with the emission peak. As a result, the highest sensitivity of 65%/K for luminescent thermometry materials was obtained. In addition, the ability of the prepared mixture to form stable coatings was demonstrated. The obtained experimental results, i.e., the high thermosensitivity of the degree of circular polarization, and the ability to form stable coatings allow us to consider the prepared mixture as a promising material for luminescent thermometry.
Variable-Coefficient Dynamic Modeling Method for a Ball Screw Feed System in the No-Extra-Load Running State
Authors: Zhang Huijie , Zha Jun , Du Chao , Liu Hui , Li Yang , Lv Dun
Published: March 2023

In a ball screw feed system of high-speed/high-acceleration machine tools, large frictional and inertial forces may change the real contact state of the kinematic joints, resulting in changes in the contact and transmission stiffnesses and, hence, changes in the dynamic characteristics of the system. In this study, a variable–coefficient dynamic modeling method for a ball screw feed system is proposed, considering the influence of changes in the no-extra-load running states, such as position, speed, and acceleration. Based on Timoshenko beam elements with two nodes and four DOFs, an equivalent dynamic model of a ball screw feed system is established using the hybrid element method. The expression for the equivalent axial stiffness of individual kinematic joints is derived, considering the influence of the feed speed/acceleration under the no-extra-load running state of the system. In addition, the stiffness and mass of the screw shafts on both sides of the screw nut are calculated, considering the influence of the system’s feed position. Hence, we obtain the total stiffness and mass of the system in the no-extra-load running state and analyze the natural frequency. Finally, we conduct validation experiments on a ball screw feed system of a large gantry-type machine tool with different no-extra-load running states.
Simulation-Based Approach for Multi-Echelon Inventory System Selection: Case of Distribution Systems
Authors: Sbai Noucaiba , Berrado Abdelaziz
Published: March 2023

Due to the current complexity of the supply chain, multi-echelon inventory management has become challenging while also being an interesting field of research as it allows efficient control of supply chain interdependencies. It became clear to many researchers that analytical models are no longer effective for addressing the multi-echelon inventory management problem. Simulation can be used to assess and quantify the impact of each inventory strategy on a supply chain performance. Our paper aims to provide a simulation-based approach to guide decision makers select and validate a multi-echelon distribution inventory system. The proposed approach is composed of four major steps that involve characterization of the current supply chain, conceptual modeling of the multi-echelon inventory system alternatives, and finally, simulation modeling using appropriate simulation software to compare and test different options. The approach was also tested and validated through an application to the case of the Moroccan pharmaceutical products supply chain in the public sector. The results of the simulation demonstrated that adopting an installation stock policy at all levels of the supply chain with an allocation of safety stocks in the most downstream stages is the best and most appropriate alternative for the pharmaceutical supply chain under study.
ARWLS-AFEKE: SOC Estimation and Capacity Correction of Lithium Batteries Based on a Fusion Algorithm
Authors: Chen Hu , Zhang Fujian , Zhao Xi , Lei Guoping , He Chao
Published: March 2023

Accuracy of battery charge status (SOC) estimation plays a significant role in the management of electric vehicle power batteries. However, recently, abrupt changes from SOC data often occurs in the actual operation of electric vehicles and some errors appear in the establishment of battery models and noise models, which give rise to the poorly adaptive and robust performance of traditional algorithms in the process of SOC estimation. The fusion algorithm proposed in this paper can effectively improve the accuracy of models and SOC estimation of lithium-ion batteries. Based on the second-order R-C network model, this method optimizes the accuracy of parameter identification by adopting the adaptive recursive weighted least square algorithm (ARWLS). In addition, the adaptive fading extended Kalman filter algorithm (AFEKF) is applied to estimate the SOC of lithium-ion batteries. Additionally, via introducing a fading factor, the optimal Kalman gain is updated in real-time, which can reduce the impact of data mutation on battery modeling. Compared with the offline AEKF algorithm and the EKF algorithm, the adaptive recursive weighted least square-adaptive fading extended Kalman filter (ARWLS-AFEKF) fusion algorithm had higher accuracy and adaptability, which can be adapted to the variable noise environment.
Real-Time Structure Generation Based on Data-Driven Using Machine Learning
Authors: Wang Ying , Shi Feifei , Chen Bingbing
Published: March 2023

Topology optimization results are highly dependent on the given design constraints and boundary conditions. Moreover, small changes in initial design conditions can result in different topological configurations, which makes topology optimization time-consuming in a given design constraint domain and inefficient in structural design. To address this problem, a data-driven real-time topology optimization framework and method coupled with machine learning by using a principal component analysis algorithm combined with a feedforward neural network are developed in this paper. Meanwhile, through the offline training, the mapping relationship between initial design conditions and topology optimization results is obtained. From this mapping, we estimate the optimal topologies for novel loading configurations. Numerical examples display that the online prediction results are consistent with the results of the topology optimization method. Furthermore, the network parameters are calibrated, and accurate structure prediction is achieved based on the algorithm. In addition, this method ensures the accuracy of high-resolution structural prediction on the premise of small samples.
Measuring the Distance between Trees and Power Lines under Wind Loads to Assess the Heightened Potential Risk of Wildfire
Authors: Lee Seulbi , Ham Youngjib
Published: March 2023

The incidence of wildfires caused by tree contact with high-voltage power lines has become an increasingly pressing issue in the United States. To prevent such incidents, local safety councils have established minimum clearance regulations between trees and power lines. While most studies have focused on the tree encroachment around power lines during normal weather conditions, recent catastrophic fires have been caused by strong winds. To address this gap in knowledge, we investigated the critical wind speed that heightens the risk of wildfires by calculating the distance between trees and wires. To conduct this study, we used airborne LiDAR data collected from Sonoma County in northern California and analyzed the behavior of a sample tree having a height of 19.2 m under wind loads. Our analysis showed that the main factor determining tree deflection is the ratio of the tree height to the trunk diameter. We also found that, although the probability of fire ignition is typically low under normal conditions, it is likely to increase at a wind speed of approximately 40.3 m/s. In conclusion, this research demonstrates the utility of point cloud data in identifying potentially dangerous trees and reducing the risk of fires.
CochleRob: Parallel-Serial Robot to Position a Magnetic Actuator around a Patient’s Head for Intracochlear Microrobot Navigation
Authors: Nadour Housseyne , Bozorg Grayeli Alexis , Poisson Gérard , Belharet Karim
Published: March 2023

Our work introduces a new robotic solution named CochleRob, which is used for the administration of super-paramagnetic antiparticles as drug carriers into the human cochlea for the treatment of hearing loss caused by damaged cochlea. This novel robot architecture presents two key contributions. First, CochleRob has been designed to meet specifications pertaining to ear anatomy, including workspace, degrees of freedom, compactness, rigidity, and accuracy. The first objective was to develop a safer mathod to administer drugs to the cochlea without the need for catheter or CI insertion. Secondly, we aimed at developing and validating the mathemathical models, including forward, inverse, and dynamic models, to support the robot function. Our work provides a promising solution for drug administration into the inner ear.
A Survey on Quantitative Risk Estimation Approaches for Secure and Usable User Authentication on Smartphones
Authors: Papaioannou Maria , Pelekoudas-Oikonomou Filippos , Mantas Georgios , Serrelis Emmanouil , Rodriguez Jonathan , Fengou Maria-Anna
Published: March 2023

Mobile user authentication acts as the first line of defense, establishing confidence in the claimed identity of a mobile user, which it typically does as a precondition to allowing access to resources in a mobile device. NIST states that password schemes and/or biometrics comprise the most conventional user authentication mechanisms for mobile devices. Nevertheless, recent studies point out that nowadays password-based user authentication is imposing several limitations in terms of security and usability; thus, it is no longer considered secure and convenient for the mobile users. These limitations stress the need for the development and implementation of more secure and usable user authentication methods. Alternatively, biometric-based user authentication has gained attention as a promising solution for enhancing mobile security without sacrificing usability. This category encompasses methods that utilize human physical traits (physiological biometrics) or unconscious behaviors (behavioral biometrics). In particular, risk-based continuous user authentication, relying on behavioral biometrics, appears to have the potential to increase the reliability of authentication without sacrificing usability. In this context, we firstly present fundamentals on risk-based continuous user authentication, relying on behavioral biometrics on mobile devices. Additionally, we present an extensive overview of existing quantitative risk estimation approaches (QREA) found in the literature. We do so not only for risk-based user authentication on mobile devices, but also for other security applications such as user authentication in web/cloud services, intrusion detection systems, etc., that could be possibly adopted in risk-based continuous user authentication solutions for smartphones. The target of this study is to provide a foundation for organizing research efforts toward the design and development of proper quantitative risk estimation approaches for the development of risk-based continuous user authentication solutions for smartphones. The reviewed quantitative risk estimation approaches have been divided into the following five main categories: (i) probabilistic approaches, (ii) machine learning-based approaches, (iii) fuzzy logic models, (iv) non-graph-based models, and (v) Monte Carlo simulation models. Our main findings are summarized in the table in the end of the manuscript.
Conformable Electrode Arrays for Wearable Neuroprostheses
Authors: RaviChandran Narrendar , Teo Mei Ying , McDaid Andrew , Aw Kean
Published: March 2023

Wearable electrode arrays can selectively stimulate muscle groups by modulating their shape, size, and position over a targeted region. They can potentially revolutionize personalized rehabilitation by being noninvasive and allowing easy donning and doffing. Nevertheless, users should feel comfortable using such arrays, as they are typically worn for an extended time period. Additionally, to deliver safe and selective stimulation, these arrays must be tailored to a user’s physiology. Fabricating customizable electrode arrays needs a rapid and economical technique that accommodates scalability. By leveraging a multilayer screen-printing technique, this study aims to develop personalizable electrode arrays by embedding conductive materials into silicone-based elastomers. Accordingly, the conductivity of a silicone-based elastomer was altered by adding carbonaceous material. The 1:8 and 1:9 weight ratio percentages of carbon black (CB) to elastomer achieved conductivities between 0.0021–0.0030 S cm−1 and were suitable for transcutaneous stimulation. Moreover, these ratios maintained their stimulation performance after several stretching cycles of up to 200%. Thus, a soft, conformable electrode array with a customizable design was demonstrated. Lastly, the efficacy of the proposed electrode arrays to stimulate hand function tasks was evaluated by in vivo experiments. The demonstration of such arrays encourages the realization of cost-effective, wearable stimulation systems for hand function restoration.