bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Genome-Level Survey of the WOX Gene Family in Melastoma dodecandrum Lour.
Authors: Zheng Ruiyue , Peng Yukun , Chen Jiemin , Zhu Xuanyi , Xie Kai , Ahmad Sagheer , Zhao Kai , Peng Donghui , Liu Zhong-Jian , Zhou Yuzhen
Published: December 2023

Though conserved in higher plants, the WOX transcription factors play crucial roles in plant growth and development of Melastoma dodecandrum Lour., which shows pioneer position in land ecosystem formation and produces nutritional fruits. Identifying the WOX family genes in M. dodecandrum is imperative for elucidating its growth and development mechanisms. However, the WOX genes in M. dodecandrum have not yet been characterized. In this study, by identification 22 WOX genes in M. dodecandrum based on current genome data, we classified family genes into three clades and nine types with homeodomains. We highlighted gene duplications of MedWOX4, which offered evidences of whole-genome duplication events. Promoter analysis illustrated that cis-regulatory elements related to light and stress responses and plant growth were enriched. Expression pattern and RT-qPCR results demonstrated that the majority of WOX genes exhibited expression in the stem. MedWOX13s displayed highest expression across various tissues. MedWOX4s displayed a specific expression in the stem. Collectively, our study provided foundations for elucidating WOX gene functions and further molecular design breeding in M. dodecandrum.
A Transient π–π or Cation–π Interaction between Degron and Degrader Dual Residues: A Key Step for the Substrate Recognition and Discrimination in the Processive Degradation of SulA by ClpYQ (HslUV) Protease in Escherichia coli
Authors: Lin Chu-Hsuan , Tsai Chih-Hsuan , Chou Chun-Chi , Wu Whei-Fen
Published: December 2023

The Escherichia coli ATP-dependent ClpYQ protease constitutes ClpY ATPase/unfoldase and ClpQ peptidase. The Tyr91st residue within the central pore-I site of ClpY-hexamer is important for unfolding and translocating substrates into the catalytic site of ClpQ. We have identified the degron site (GFIMRP147th) of SulA, a cell-division inhibitor recognized by ClpYQ and that the Phe143rd residue in degron site is necessary for SulA native folded structure. However, the functional association of this degron site with the ClpYQ degrader is unknown. Here, we investigated the molecular insights into substrate recognition and discrimination by the ClpYQ protease. We found that the point mutants ClpYY91FQ, ClpYY91HQ, and ClpYY91WQ, carrying a ring structure at the 91st residue of ClpY, efficiently degraded their natural substrates, evidenced by the suppressed bacterial methyl-methane-sulfonate (MMS) sensitivity, the reduced β-galactosidase activity of cpsB::lacZ, and the lowest amounts of MBP-SulA in both in vivo and in vitro degradation analyses. Alternatively, mimicking the wild-type SulA, SulAF143H, SulAF143K and SulAF143W, harboring a ring structure or a cation side-group in 143rd residue of SulA, were efficiently degraded by ClpYQ in the bacterial cells, also revealing shorter half-lives at 41 °C and higher binding affinities towards ClpY in pull-down assays. Finally, ClpYY91FQ and ClpYY91HQ, were capable of effectively degrading SulAF143H and SulAF143K, highlighting a correspondingly functional interaction between the SulA 143rd and ClpY 91st residues. According to the interchangeable substituted amino acids, our results uniquely indicate that a transient π–π or cation−π interaction between the SulA 143rd and ClpY 91st residues could be aptly gripped between the degron site of substrates and the pore site of proteases (degraders) for substrate recognition and discrimination of the processive degradation.
KuINins as a New Class of HIV-1 Inhibitors That Block Post-Integration DNA Repair
Authors: Anisenko Andrey , Galkin Simon , Mikhaylov Andrey A. , Khrenova Maria G. , Agapkina Yulia , Korolev Sergey , Garkul Lidia , Shirokova Vasilissa , Ikonnikova Viktoria A. , Korlyukov Alexander , Dorovatovskii Pavel , Baranov Mikhail , Gottikh Marina
Published: December 2023

Integration of HIV-1 genomic cDNA results in the formation of single-strand breaks in cellular DNA, which must be repaired for efficient viral replication. Post-integration DNA repair mainly depends on the formation of the HIV-1 integrase complex with the Ku70 protein, which promotes DNA-PK assembly at sites of integration and its activation. Here, we have developed a first-class inhibitor of the integrase-Ku70 complex formation that inhibits HIV-1 replication in cell culture by acting at the stage of post-integration DNA repair. This inhibitor, named s17, does not affect the main cellular function of Ku70, namely its participation in the repair of double-strand DNA breaks through the non-homologous end-joining pathway. Using a molecular dynamics approach, we have constructed a model for the interaction of s17 with Ku70. According to this model, the interaction of two phenyl radicals of s17 with the L76 residue of Ku70 is important for this interaction. The requirement of two phenyl radicals in the structure of s17 for its inhibitory properties was confirmed using a set of s17 derivatives. We propose to stimulate compounds that inhibit post-integration repair by disrupting the integrase binding to Ku70 KuINins.
The Inactivation of the Putative Two-Component System Sensor PA14_27940 Increases the Susceptibility to Several Antibiotics and Reduces the Motility of Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Genova Roberta , Gil-Gil Teresa , Cuesta Trinidad , Martínez José Luis , Sanz-García Fernando
Published: December 2023

The identification of targets whose inactivation increases the activity of antibiotics helps to fight antibiotic resistance. Previous work showed that a transposon-insertion mutant in the gene PA14_27940 increases Pseudomonas aeruginosa susceptibility to aminoglycosides. Since polar effects may affect the phenotype, in the present work, we generated an in-frame PA14_27940 deletion mutant. A PA14_27940 deletion increased the susceptibility to aminoglycosides, tetracycline, tigecycline, erythromycin and fosfomycin. Excepting fosfomycin, the other antibiotics are inducers of the MexXY efflux pump. MexXY induction is required for P. aeruginosa resistance to these antibiotics, which is post-transcriptionally regulated by the anti-repressor ArmZ. Although mexXY is inducible by tobramycin in ΔPA14_27940, the induction level is lower than in the parental PA14 strain. Additionally, armZ is induced by tobramycin in PA14 and not in ΔPA14_27940, supporting that ΔPA14_27940 presents an ArmZ-mediated defect in mexXY induction. For its part, hypersusceptibility to fosfomycin may be due to a reduced expression of nagZ and agmK, which encode enzymes of the peptidoglycan recycling pathway. ΔPA14_27940 also presents defects in motility, an element with relevance in P. aeruginosa’s virulence. Overall, our results support that PA14_27940 is a good target for the search of adjuvants that will increase the activity of antibiotics and reduce the virulence of P. aeruginosa.
Revealing the Mechanisms of Enhanced β-Farnesene Production in Yarrowia lipolytica through Metabolomics Analysis
Authors: Liu Qianxi , Bi Haoran , Wang Kai , Zhang Yang , Chen Biqiang , Zhang Huili , Wang Meng , Fang Yunming
Published: December 2023

β-Farnesene is an advanced molecule with promising applications in agriculture, the cosmetics industry, pharmaceuticals, and bioenergy. To supplement the shortcomings of rational design in the development of high-producing β-farnesene strains, a Metabolic Pathway Design-Fermentation Test-Metabolomic Analysis-Target Mining experimental cycle was designed. In this study, by over-adding 20 different amino acids/nucleobases to induce fluctuations in the production of β-farnesene, the changes in intracellular metabolites in the β-farnesene titer-increased group were analyzed using non-targeted metabolomics. Differential metabolites that were detected in each experimental group were selected, and their metabolic pathways were located. Based on these differential metabolites, targeted strain gene editing and culture medium optimization were performed. The overexpression of the coenzyme A synthesis-related gene pantothenate kinase (PanK) and the addition of four mixed water-soluble vitamins in the culture medium increased the β-farnesene titer in the shake flask to 1054.8 mg/L, a 48.5% increase from the initial strain. In the subsequent fed-batch fermentation, the β-farnesene titer further reached 24.6 g/L. This work demonstrates the tremendous application value of metabolomics analysis for the development of industrial recombinant strains and the optimization of fermentation conditions.
State-of-the-Art and Progress in Metal-Hydrogen Systems
Authors: Humphries Terry D. , Buckley Craig E. , Paskevicius Mark , Jensen Torben R.
Published: December 2023

Hydrogen is heralded as a future global energy carrier [...]
Validation of the Acoustic Breathiness Index in Speakers of Finnish Language
Authors: Kankare Elina , Laukkanen Anne-Maria
Published: December 2023

Breathiness (perception of turbulence noise in the voice) is one of the major components of hoarseness in dysphonic voices. This study aims to validate a multiparameter analysis tool, the Acoustic Breathiness Index (ABI), for quantification of breathiness in the speaking voice, including both sustained vowels and continuous speech. One hundred and eight speakers with dysphonia (28 M, 80 F, mean age 50, SD 15.4 years) and 87 non-dysphonic controls (18 M, 69 F, mean age 42, SD 14 years) volunteered as participants. They read a standard text and sustained vowel /a:/. Acoustic recordings were made using a head-mounted microphone. Acoustic samples were evaluated perceptually by nine voice experts of different backgrounds (speech therapists, vocologists and laryngologists). Breathiness (B) from the GRBAS scale was rated. Headphones were used in the perceptual analysis. The dysphonic and non-dysphonic speakers differed significantly from each other in the auditory perceptual evaluation of breathiness. A significant difference was also found for ABI, which had a mean value of 2.26 (SD 1.15) for non-dysphonic and 3.07 (SD 1.75) for dysphonic speakers. ABI correlated strongly with B (rs = 0.823, p = 0.01). ABI’s power to distinguish the groups was high (88.6%). The highest sensitivity and specificity of ABI (80%) was obtained at threshold value 2.68. ABI is a valid tool for differentiating breathiness in non-dysphonic and dysphonic speakers of Finnish.
The Intellectual Profile of Adults with Specific Learning Disabilities
Authors: Pizzigallo Eleonora , Cornoldi Cesare , Buono Serafino , Città Santina , Viola Francesco , Toffalini Enrico
Published: December 2023

Despite growing research on adults with specific learning disabilities (SLDs), evidence concerning their intellectual profile remains scarce. The present study examined the results of the administration of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale—Fourth Edition to 301 adults diagnosed with SLDs and compared them to the results obtained from previous studies with a large sample of children with SLDs. The results showed that: (1) as observed among children, adults with SLDs also presented higher scores in the subtests implying reasoning (associated with the General Ability Index, GAI) and lower scores in the subtests involving working memory and processing speed; (2) the discrepancy between full-scale IQ and the GAI had a good predictive value in discriminating adults with and without SLDs; (3) the four-factor hierarchical structure of intelligence proposed for the general adult population held for adults with SLDs as well, even though there were substantial differences in the loadings and a five-factor structure could be more appropriate; (4) similarities as well as strong differences were present between adults and children with SLDs. In adults, scores on subtests were generally lower, particularly in working memory and processing speed. However, in some cases, scores were equal or even higher (as in the “Similarity” subtest) among adults, meaning that the discrepancy between the full scale and the GAI was accentuated.
Three New Species of Gongronella (Cunninghamellaceae, Mucorales) from Soil in Hainan, China Based on Morphology and Molecular Phylogeny
Authors: Wang Yi-Xin , Zhao Heng , Ding Zi-Ying , Ji Xin-Yu , Zhang Zhao-Xue , Wang Shi , Zhang Xiu-Guo , Liu Xiao-Yong
Published: December 2023

The genus Gongronella is important in agriculture and industry by secreting various natural bioactive metabolites such as chitosanases and organic acids. During the most recent 8 years, a total of 14 new species have been described, remarkably enriching the diversity of this genus. In this study, we added three more new species to this valuable genus, based on a combination of morphological traits and phylogenetic information. Six strains of the genus Gongronella were isolated from soil collected in Hainan Province, China. Phylogenetic analyses of ITS and LSU rDNA sequences grouped these strains into three independent clades. According to their unique morphological characteristics, they were classified as G. multiramosa sp. nov., G. qichaensis sp. nov. and G. oleae sp. nov. The G. multiramosa was characterized by multiple branched sporangiophores and was closely related to G. pedratalhadensis. The G. qichaensis was characterized by obscure collars and closely related to G. butleri, G. hydei and G. banzhaoae. The G. oleae was characterized by the presence of oil droplets in the sporangiospores and was closely related to G. chlamydospora and G. multispora. Their descriptions and illustrations were provided, and their differences from morphological allies and phylogenetic-related species are discussed.
Demand Analysis Models to Support Cultural Tourism Strategy: Application of Conjoint Analysis in North Sardinia (Italy)
Authors: Coscia Cristina , Pasquino Francesca
Published: December 2023

This study focuses on an inner area in Northern Sardinia (Italy) currently experiencing depopulation and considered ‘fragile’ due to its lack of typical regional summer tourism. However, this area boasts an intriguing cultural heritage, currently under-recognized and undervalued. The aim of this contribution is to apply to this territory the Conjoint Analysis methodology, which examines target demand and constructs scenarios. Drawing from the regional plan for tourism, an exploratory phase was employed to support future strategies in cultural and touristic enhancement by stakeholders. In this regard, the experiment, involving a survey of 600 interviews among inhabitants (301) and tourists (299), aims to: (1) estimate the economic value of the cultural heritage and tourist consumption preferences using WTP, (2) raise awareness among decision-makers about the varied value perceptions of the territory and its heritage by its users, (3) craft a knowledge framework of this territory to diversification of the tourism offer. The study showcases innovative elements both in terms of internal technical aspects and strategic approach. The collection of preferences, based on a set of nine itinerary cards, highlights undervalued aspects related to intangible components, community well-being, sustainable consumption habits, sustainable mobility, and microeconomies not strictly tied to traditional tourism types.
Substituting Solid Fossil Fuels with Torrefied Timber Products
Authors: Malaťák Jan , Jankovský Martin , Malaťáková Jitka , Velebil Jan , Gendek Arkadiusz , Aniszewska Monika
Published: December 2023

As a push towards alternative and renewable resources for heat and power generation, biomass and thermally treated fuels from biomass may be viable options in the upcoming economic reality. This study the verified mass and energy balance of spruce woody biomass after low temperature pyrolysis between 250 and 550 °C. The results showed that low-temperature pyrolysis can yield high-grade biochar suitable for substitution of fossil fuels. Crucially, the net calorific value of biochar processed at 350 °C substantially exceeded that of brown coal. An economic analysis was carried out on the assumption of the current economic reality in the Czech Republic. It was shown that even if the price of the biochar slightly increased, it would still be beneficial to invest in torrefaction technology over paying carbon credits.
High-Mobility Topological Semimetals as Novel Materials for Huge Magnetoresistance Effect and New Type of Quantum Hall Effect
Authors: Zivieri Roberto , Lumetti Stefano , Létang Jérémy
Published: December 2023

The quantitative description of electrical and magnetotransport properties of solid-state materials has been a remarkable challenge in materials science over recent decades. Recently, the discovery of a novel class of materials—the topological semimetals—has led to a growing interest in the full understanding of their magnetotransport properties. In this review, the strong interplay among topology, band structure, and carrier mobility in recently discovered high carrier mobility topological semimetals is discussed and their effect on their magnetotransport properties is outlined. Their large magnetoresistance effect, especially in the Hall transverse configuration, and a new version of a three-dimensional quantum Hall effect observed in high-mobility Weyl and Dirac semimetals are reviewed. The possibility of designing novel quantum sensors and devices based on solid-state semimetals is also examined.
Review of Approaches to Minimise the Cost of Simulation-Based Optimisation for Liquid Composite Moulding Processes
Authors: Chai Boon Xian , Eisenbart Boris , Nikzad Mostafa , Fox Bronwyn , Wang Yuqi , Bwar Kyaw Hlaing , Zhang Kaiyu
Published: December 2023

The utilisation of numerical process simulation has greatly facilitated the challenging task of liquid composite moulding (LCM) process optimisation, providing ease of solution evaluation at a significantly reduced cost compared to complete reliance on physical prototyping. However, due to the process complexity, such process simulation is still considerably expensive at present. In this paper, cost-saving approaches to minimising the computational cost of simulation-based optimisation for LCM processes are compiled and discussed. Their specific applicability, efficacy, and suitability for various optimisation/moulding scenarios are extensively explored in detail. The comprehensive analysation and assimilation of their operation alongside applicability for the problem domain of interest are accomplished in this paper to further complement and contribute to future simulation-based optimisation capabilities for composite moulding processes. The importance of balancing the cost-accuracy trade-off is also repeatedly emphasised, allowing for substantial cost reductions while ensuring a desirable level of optimization reliability.
Experimental Study of Reinforced Concrete T-Beam Retrofitted with Ultra-High-Performance Concrete under Cyclic and Ultimate Flexural Loading
Authors: Khodayari Abbas , Rehmat Sheharyar , Valikhani Alireza , Azizinamini Atorod
Published: December 2023

Structurally deficient bridges are commonly retrofitted using conventional methodologies, including reinforced concrete, steel jackets, and fiber-reinforced polymers. Although these retrofit methods aim to improve structural performance, exposure to aggressive environments may undermine the durability performance of the retrofit material. More recently, ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) has provided an alternative to conventional construction methods, with its superior material characteristics favoring its use in retrofit applications. In this study, a large-scale reinforced concrete (RC) T-beam is constructed and artificially damaged. The T-beam is then retrofitted with an external envelope of UHPC on all faces. Sandblasting is introduced to the surface, providing partially exposed reinforcement in the T-beam to simulate material deterioration. Additional reinforcement is placed in the web and flange, followed by casting the enveloping layer of UHPC around the specimen. The feasibility of this method is discussed, and the structural performance of the beam is assessed by subjecting the beam to cyclic and ultimate flexural loading. This paper presents the results of cyclic and ultimate testing on the RC-UHPC composite T-beam regarding load–displacement, failure mode, and strain responses. The retrofitted T-beam specimen is subjected to a cyclic loading range of 131 kN for 1.576 million cycles. Despite no visible cracks in the cyclic testing, the specimen experiences a 12.22% degradation in stiffness. During the ultimate flexural testing, the specimen shows no relative slip between the two concretes, and the typical flexural failure mode is observed. By increasing the longitudinal reinforcement ratio in the web, the failure mode can shift from localized cracking, predominantly observed in the UHPC shell, toward a more distributed cracking pattern along the length of the beam, which is similar to conventional reinforced concrete beams.
Pollution and Heritage Metals—Effectiveness of Oddy Testing and Mitigation
Authors: Thickett David , Batool Tayba
Published: December 2023

Metals are particularly sensitive to some pollutant gases. Many museum showcases and store rooms present atmospheres that can corrode cultural heritage artefacts containing metals. Whilst numerous strategies have been reported to mitigate such situations, avoiding them is preferable. Several approaches to testing materials used in construction, fitting out or dressing are used. The relative merits and drawbacks are discussed. Several parameters of the most widely used, accelerated corrosion ‘Oddy’ test are investigated. The influence of abrasive on subsequent corrosion of lead and copper coupons are assessed. Quantification methods for tested coupons are reviewed. The influence of test duration and temperature are assessed through comparison with real-life, long-term experience of material behaviour. Direct contact tests with touching the test material are investigated. Several materials present in artefacts are known to potentially cause corrosion when enclosed with metals in other artefacts. A number of situations are investigated with pollution and RH and some corrosion rate measurements. Ways to isolate artefacts or mitigate are explored and a decision support model is further developed.
Effect of Latent Heat by Phase Transformation on the Thermal Behavior of Steel Billet during Heating
Authors: Hwang Joong-Ki
Published: December 2023

The effect of latent heat via phase transformation on the thermal behavior of a billet was investigated during the heating process. The latent heat of the billet strongly affected the temperature distribution of the billet during heating, although the heating rate of the billet was not high during the process. The temperature profile of the center region of the steel billet with latent heat had a strong flat shape compared with the other regions, as the heat supply to the center region was limited during the heating process owing to the finite thermal conductivity and mass effect of the billet. The latent heat by phase transformation typically occurred in the middle stage of heating, and the latent heat increased the temperature deviation of the billet during heating owing to the delay in the temperature rise at the center region of the billet. During the phase transformation of carbon steels during heating, the gas temperature needs to be low to reduce the temperature deviation or thermal stress of the billet. Industrial hot rolling mills are required to consider the latent heat by phase transformation of the billet to properly design the heating pattern for the billet. The heating pattern in the reheating furnace should be varied with the materials to obtain a high heating quality for the billet.
A Novel Tooth Modification Methodology for Improving the Load-Bearing Capacity of Non-Orthogonal Helical Face Gears
Authors: Jia Chao , Li Bingquan , Xu Junhong
Published: December 2023

This study proposes a double-crown tooth surface modification technology that improves the load-carrying capacity of non-orthogonal helical tooth surface gears. The tooth modification is determined by a modified rack-cutter, and its feed motion is related to an intentionally designed transmission error. The novelty of the tooth modification design is that the transmission error can be pre-designed. First, changing the tooth profile of the tool enables preliminary modification along the tooth profile direction; second, by modifying the interaction between the tool and the machined gear, subsequent fine adjustments are made to the contact path. This two-stage tooth modification strategy not only retains the advantages of the traditional method but also significantly improves the balance of the load distribution on the tooth surface through an original contact path modification strategy. Through systematic tooth contact analysis (TCA) and loaded tooth contact analysis (LTCA), it was verified that the new method reduces contact stress and tooth root bending stress and improves the gear’s resistance to misalignment errors. This research provides the basis and motivation for further exploring and improving this tooth profile modification technology to solve the challenges faced by more complex gear systems.
Existence Results for Systems of Nonlinear Second-Order and Impulsive Differential Equations with Periodic Boundary
Authors: Moumen Abdelkader , Benaissa Cherif Amin , Ferhat Mohamed , Bouye Mohamed , Zennir Khaled
Published: December 2023

A class for systems of nonlinear second-order differential equations with periodic impulse action are considered. An urgent problem for this class of differential equations is the problem of the quantitative study (existence) in the case when the phase space of the equation is, in the general case, some Banach space. In this work, sufficient conditions for the existence of solutions for a system with parameters are obtained. The results are obtained by using fixed point theorems for operators on a cone. Our approach is based on Schaefer’s fixed point theorem more precisely. In addition, the existence of positive solutions is also investigated.
A New Method for Dynamical System Identification by Optimizing the Control Parameters of Legendre Multiwavelet Neural Network
Authors: Zheng Xiaoyang , Liu Shiyu , Yu Zejiang , Luo Chengyou
Published: December 2023

Wavelet neural networks have been widely applied to dynamical system identification fields. The most difficult issue lies in selecting the optimal control parameters (the wavelet base type and corresponding resolution level) of the network structure. This paper utilizes the advantages of Legendre multiwavelet (LW) bases to construct a Legendre multiwavelet neural network (LWNN), whose simple structure consists of an input layer, hidden layer, and output layer. It is noted that the activation functions in the hidden layer are adopted as LW bases. This selection if based on the its rich properties of LW bases, such as piecewise polynomials, orthogonality, various regularities, and more. These properties contribute to making LWNNs more effective in approximating the complex characteristics exhibited by uncertainties, step, nonlinear, and ramp in the dynamical systems compared to traditional wavelet neural networks. Then, the number of selection LW bases and the corresponding resolution level are effectively optimized by the simple Genetic Algorithm, and the improved gradient descent algorithm is implemented to learn the weight coefficients of LWNN. Finally, four nonlinear dynamical system identification problems are applied to validate the efficiency and feasibility of the proposed LWNN-GA method. The experiment results indicate that the LWNN-GA method achieves better identification accuracy with a simpler network structure than other existing methods.
Optimal Mission Abort Decisions for Multi-Component Systems Considering Multiple Abort Criteria
Authors: Chai Xiaofei , Chen Boyu , Zhao Xian
Published: December 2023

This paper studies the optimal mission abort decisions for safety-critical mission-based systems with multiple components. The considered system operates in a random shock environment and is required to accomplish a mission during a fixed mission period. If the failure risk of the system is very high, the main mission can be aborted to avoid higher failure cost. The main contribution of this study lies in the design and optimization of mission abort policies for multi-component systems with multiple abort criteria. Moreover, multi-level transitions are considered in this study to characterize the different shock-resistance abilities for components in different states. Mission abort decisions are determined based on the number of components in either defective or failed state. The problem is formulated in the framework of the finite Markov chain imbedding method. We use the Monte-Carlo simulation method to derive the mission reliability and system survivability. Numerical studies and sensitivity analysis are presented to validate the obtained result.
A Result of Krasner in Categorial Form
Authors: Linzi Alessandro
Published: December 2023

In 1957, M. Krasner described a complete valued field (K,v) as the inverse limit of a system of certain structures, called hyperfields, associated with (K,v). We put this result in purely category-theoretic terms by translating it into a limit construction in certain slice categories of the category of valued hyperfields and their homomorphisms. We replace the original metric-dependent arguments employed by Krasner with a clean and elegant transition to certain slice categories.
An Improved 3D OPC Method for the Fabrication of High-Fidelity Micro Fresnel Lenses
Authors: Peng Fei , Sun Chao , Wan Hui , Gui Chengqun
Published: December 2023

Based on three-dimensional optical proximity correction (3D OPC), recent advancements in 3D lithography have enabled the high-fidelity customization of 3D micro-optical elements. However, the micron-to-millimeter-scale structures represented by the Fresnel lens design bring more stringent requirements for 3D OPC, which poses significant challenges to the accuracy of models and the efficiency of algorithms. Thus, a lithographic model based on optical imaging and photochemical reaction curves is developed in this paper, and a subdomain division method with a statistics principle is proposed to improve the efficiency and accuracy of 3D OPC. Both the simulation and the experimental results show the superiority of the proposed 3D OPC method in the fabrication of Fresnel lenses. The computation memory requirements of the 3D OPC are reduced to below 1%, and the profile error of the fabricated Fresnel lens is reduced 79.98%. Applying the Fresnel lenses to an imaging system, the average peak signal to noise ratio (PSNR) of the image is increased by 18.92%, and the average contrast of the image is enhanced by 36%. We believe that the proposed 3D OPC method can be extended to the fabrication of vision-correcting ophthalmological lenses.
Numerical Studies on the Motions of Magnetically Tagged Cells Driven by a Micromagnetic Matrix
Authors: Tao Shanjia , Wu Jianguo , He Yongqing , Jiao Feng
Published: December 2023

Precisely controlling magnetically tagged cells in a complex environment is crucial to constructing a magneto-microfluidic platform. We propose a two-dimensional model for capturing magnetic beads from non-magnetic fluids under a micromagnetic matrix. A qualitative description of the relationship between the capture trajectory and the micromagnetic matrix with an alternating polarity configuration was obtained by computing the force curve of the magnetic particles. Three stages comprise the capture process: the first, where motion is a parabolic fall in weak fields; the second, where the motion becomes unpredictable due to the competition between gravity and magnetic force; and the third, where the micromagnetic matrix finally captures cells. Since it is not always obvious how many particles are adhered to the surface, attachment density is utilized to illustrate how the quantity of particles influences the capture path. The longitudinal magnetic load is calculated to measure the acquisition efficiency. The optimal adhesion density is 13%, and the maximum adhesion density is 18%. It has been demonstrated that a magnetic ring model with 100% adhesion density can impede the capture process. The results offer a theoretical foundation for enhancing the effectiveness of rare cell capture in practical applications.
Antibiotic Resistance of Bacillus cereus in Plant Foods and Edible Wild Mushrooms in a Province
Authors: Cha Xiaoyan , Lin Yingting , Brennan Charles , Cao Jianxin , Shang Ying
Published: December 2023

Bacillus cereus is a common pathogen causing foodborne diseases, secreting and producing a large number of toxins that can cause a variety of diseases and pose many threats to human health. In this study, 73 strains of Bacillus cereus were isolated and identified from six types of foods from seven different cities in a province, and the antibiotic-resistant phenotype was detected by using the Bauer–Kirby method. Results showed that the 73 isolates were completely sensitive to gentamicin and 100% resistant to chloramphenicol, in addition to which all strains showed varying degrees of resistance to 13 other common antibiotics, and a large number of strains resistant to multiple antibiotics were found. A bioinformatic analysis of the expression of resistance genes in Bacillus cereus showed three classes of antibiotic-resistant genes, which were three of the six classes of antibiotics identified according to the resistance phenotype. The presence of other classes of antibiotic-resistant genes was identified from genome-wide information. Antibiotic-resistant phenotypes were analyzed for correlations with genotype, and remarkable differences were found among the phenotypes. The spread of antibiotic-resistant strains is a serious public health problem that requires the long-term monitoring of antimicrobial resistance in Bacillus cereus, and the present study provides important information for monitoring antibiotic resistance in bacteria from different types of food.
Emerging Pathogens Causing Acute Hepatitis
Authors: Sayed Ibrahim M. , El-Shamy Ahmed , Abdelwahab Sayed F.
Published: December 2023

Acute hepatitis is defined as an inflammation or injury in the hepatocytes that continues for a short period of time (less than 6 months) [...]
The Effect of Fruit and Berry Pomaces on the Growth Dynamics of Microorganisms and Sensory Properties of Marinated Rainbow Trout
Authors: Roasto Mati , Mäesaar Mihkel , Püssa Tõnu , Anton Dea , Rätsep Reelika , Elias Terje , Jortikka Salli , Pärna Merilin , Kapp Karmen , Tepper Marek , Kerner Kristi , Meremäe Kadrin
Published: December 2023

Plant pomaces in suitable forms (powders, extracts) can be used in foods of animal origin to increase the nutritional value and safety of these foods. In the present study, water extracts of apple, black currant, rhubarb and tomato pomaces were used in fish marinade solutions to evaluate their effect on the growth dynamics of microorganisms and the growth potential of Listeria monocytogenes by challenge testing. The results showed that mesophilic aerobic microorganisms, Pseudomonas spp., yeasts and moulds remained at acceptable levels throughout the predetermined storage period. The challenge test results showed that the overall growth potential of L. monocytogenes in all marinated rainbow trout samples remained at ≤0.5 log10 cfu/g during the study period, and none of the marinated fish samples supported the growth of L. monocytogenes. In addition, the effect of fruit and berry pomaces on the sensory properties of marinated rainbow trout samples was evaluated. The results revealed that it is possible to effectively use fruit and berry pomaces in marinated fish products, ensuring food safety, high microbiological quality, acceptable sensory characteristics and a sufficiently long shelf life of the products.
Epimerisation in Peptide Synthesis
Authors: Duengo Suleman , Muhajir Muhamad Imam , Hidayat Ace Tatang , Musa Weny J. A. , Maharani Rani
Published: December 2023

Epimerisation is basically a chemical conversion that includes the transformation of an epimer into another epimer or its chiral partner. Epimerisation of amino acid is a side reaction that sometimes happens during peptide synthesis. It became the most avoided reaction because the process affects the overall conformation of the molecule, eventually even altering the bioactivity of the peptide. Epimerised products have a high similarity of physical characteristics, thus making it difficult for them to be purified. In regards to amino acids, epimerisation is very important in keeping the chirality of the assembled amino acids unchanged during the peptide synthesis and obtaining the desirable product without any problematic purification. In this review, we report several factors that induce epimerisation during peptide synthesis, including how to characterise and affect the bioactivities. To avoid undesirable epimerisation, we also describe several methods of suppressing the process.
Rosa rugosa Low Caloric Fiber Protein Preparations Rich in Antioxidant Flavanols and Ellagitannins
Authors: Milala Joanna , Kosmala Monika , Sójka Michał , Kołodziejczyk Krzysztof , Klewicki Robert , Król Magdalena , Karlińska Elżbieta , Rój Edward
Published: December 2023

Defatted seed residues after the extraction of rose oil have their potential not fully described in the existing literature. The aim of this study was to determine and characterize the components important for the human body that are found in Rosa rugosa defatted seeds, including dietary fibers, proteins, selected minerals, polyphenols and antioxidant activity. Rosa rugosa seeds defatted with CO2 in supercritical conditions are a rich source of dietary fibers (approx. 65%) and proteins (15%); their macronutrients include the following: Ca (175.9), Mg (83.9), K (199.2) and Na (3.5 mg/100 g). They also contain polyphenols, including flavanols (0.9%) and total ellagic acid (0.5%), and they exhibit antioxidant activity (143.8 µM TAEC/g). Tellimagrandin I and II and rugosin A were found in the extracts, and ellagitannins with a yet-indeterminate structure were also present. The seeds also contained ellagitannin derivatives—galloyl-HHDP-glucose and bis-HHDP-glucose—at the same time, and they are characterized by a low-fat content—0.4%. The energy value of defatted rose seeds is about half the energy value of popular seeds used in the food industry. The findings of the present study suggest that defatted rosehip seeds, the by-product of rosehip processing, could be an important source of bioactive components like dietary fibers, flavanols, ellagitannins and mineral compounds. Therefore, defatted rose seeds are very promising and require further research, because they can potentially be used as a natural source of chemopreventive agents.
Effects of Bacterioruberin-Rich Haloarchaeal Carotenoid Extract on the Thermal and Oxidative Stabilities of Fish Oil
Authors: Kesbiç Fevziye Işıl , Metin Hilal , Fazio Francesco , Parrino Vincenzo , Kesbiç Osman Sabri
Published: December 2023

This study aimed to assess the efficacy of a bacterioruberin-rich carotenoid extract (HAE) derived from the halophilic archaea Halorubrum ezzemoulense DSM 19316 in protecting crude fish oil against thermal oxidation. The research used fish oil derived from anchovies, which had a peroxide value (PV) of 6.44 ± 0.81 meq O2 kg−1. To assess the impact of HAE on the thermal stability and post-oxidation characteristics of fish oil, several concentrations of HAE were added to the fish oil samples: 0 ppm (no additive) (HAE0), 50 ppm (HAE50), 100 ppm (HAE100), 500 ppm (HAE500), and 1000 ppm (HAE1000). Furthermore, a control group was established with the addition of 100 ppm butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT100) in order to evaluate the effectiveness of HAE with a synthetic antioxidant that is commercially available. Prior to the fast oxidation experiment, thermogravimetric analysis was conducted on samples from all experimental groups. At the conclusion of the examination, it was seen that the HAE500 and HAE1000 groups exhibited a delay in the degradation temperature. The experimental groups underwent oxidation at a temperature of 55.0 ± 0.5 °C for a duration of 96 h. The measurement of PV was conducted every 24 h during this time. PV in all experimental groups exhibited a time-dependent rise (p < 0.05). However, the HAE500 group had the lowest PV measurement at the conclusion of the 96 h period (p < 0.05). Significant disparities were detected in the fatty acid compositions of the experimental groups at the completion of the oxidation experiment. The HAE500 group exhibited the highest levels of EPA, DHA, and ΣPUFA at the end of oxidation, with statistical significance (p < 0.05). Through the examination of volatile component analysis, specifically an oxidation marker, it was shown that the HAE500 group exhibited the lowest level of volatile components (p < 0.05). Consequently, it was concluded that the addition of HAE to fish oil provided superior protection compared to BHT at an equivalent rate. Moreover, the group that used 500 ppm HAE demonstrated the highest level of performance in the investigation.
Research Progress of Methods for Degradation of Bisphenol A
Authors: Han Ying , Dai Hao , Rong Xiaolong , Jiang Haixia , Xue Yingang
Published: December 2023

Bisphenol A (BPA), an endocrine disruptor widely used in industrial production, is found in various environmental sources. Despite numerous reports on BPA degradation and removal, the details remain unclear. This paper aims to address this gap by providing a comprehensive review of BPA degradation methods, focusing on biological, physical, and chemical treatments and the factors that affect the degradation of BPA. Firstly, the paper uses VOSviewer software (version 1.6.15) to map out the literature on BPA degradation published in the past 20 years, which reveals the trends and research focus in this field. Next, the advantages and limitations of different BPA degradation methods are discussed. Overall, this review highlights the importance of BPA degradation to protect the environment and human health. The paper provides significant insights for researchers and policymakers to develop better approaches for BPA degradation and removal.
Li+ Conduction in a Polymer/Li1.5Al0.5Ge1.5(PO4)3 Solid Electrolyte and Li-Metal/Electrolyte Interface
Authors: Li Qinghui , Wang Xiaofen , Wang Linlin , Zhu Shyuan , Zhong Qingdong , Li Yuanyuan , Zhou Qiongyu
Published: December 2023

The solid oxide electrolyte Li1.5Al0.5Ge1.5(PO4)3 (LAGP) with a NASICON structure has a high bulk ionic conductivity of 10−4 S cm−1 at room temperature and good stability in the air because of the strong P5+-O2− covalence bonding. However, the Ge4+ ions in LAGP are quickly reduced to Ge3+ on contact with the metallic lithium anode, and the LAGP ceramic has insufficient physical contact with the electrodes in all-solid-state batteries, which limits the large-scale application of the LAGP electrolyte in all-solid-state Li-metal batteries. Here, we prepared flexible PEO/LiTFSI/LAGP composite electrolytes, and the introduction of LAGP as a ceramic filler in polymer electrolytes increases the total ionic conductivity and the electrochemical stability of the composite electrolyte. Moreover, the flexible polymer shows good contact with the electrodes, resulting in a small interfacial resistance and stable cycling of all-solid-state Li-metal batteries. The influence of the external pressure and temperature on Li+ transfer across the Li/electrolyte interface is also investigated.
A New 3D Iodoargentate Hybrid: Structure, Optical/Photoelectric Performance and Theoretical Research
Authors: Li Jun , Xie Shuyue , Pang Ming , Zhu Jiacheng , Wu Jinting , Zhang Yongdi , Zhang Bo
Published: December 2023

The explorations of new three-dimensional (3D) microporous metal halides, especially the iodoargentate-based hybrids, and understanding of their structure-activity relationships are still quite essential but full of great challenges. Herein, with the aromatic 4,4′-dpa (4,4′-dpa = 4,4′-dipyridylamine) ligands as the structural directing agents, we solvothermal synthesized and structurally characterized a novel member of microporous iodoargentate family, namely [H2-4,4′-dpa]Ag6I8 (1). Compound 1 possesses a unique and complicated 3D [Ag6I8]n2n− anionic architecture that was built up from the unusual hexameric [Ag6I13] secondary building units (SBUs). Research on optical properties indicated that compound 1 exhibited semiconductor behavior, with an optical band gap of 2.50 eV. Under the alternate irradiation of light, prominent photoelectric switching abilities could be achieved by compound [H2-4,4′-dpa]Ag6I8, whose photocurrent densities (0.37 μA·cm−2 for visible light and 1.23 μA·cm−2 for full-spectrum) compared well with or exceeded those of some high-performance halide counterparts. Further theoretical calculations revealed that the relatively dispersed conduction bands (CBs) structures in compound 1 induced higher electron mobilities, which may be responsible for its good photoelectricity. Presented in this work also comprised the analyses of Hirshfeld surface, powder X-ray diffractometer (PXRD), thermogravimetric measurement, energy-dispersive X-ray spectrum (EDX) along with X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS).
In Silico Screening of Natural Flavonoids against 3-Chymotrypsin-like Protease of SARS-CoV-2 Using Machine Learning and Molecular Modeling
Authors: Cai Lianjin , Han Fengyang , Ji Beihong , He Xibing , Wang Luxuan , Niu Taoyu , Zhai Jingchen , Wang Junmei
Published: December 2023

The “Long-COVID syndrome” has posed significant challenges due to a lack of validated therapeutic options. We developed a novel multi-step virtual screening strategy to reliably identify inhibitors against 3-chymotrypsin-like protease of SARS-CoV-2 from abundant flavonoids, which represents a promising source of antiviral and immune-boosting nutrients. We identified 57 interacting residues as contributors to the protein-ligand binding pocket. Their energy interaction profiles constituted the input features for Machine Learning (ML) models. The consensus of 25 classifiers trained using various ML algorithms attained 93.9% accuracy and a 6.4% false-positive-rate. The consensus of 10 regression models for binding energy prediction also achieved a low root-mean-square error of 1.18 kcal/mol. We screened out 120 flavonoid hits first and retained 50 drug-like hits after predefined ADMET filtering to ensure bioavailability and safety profiles. Furthermore, molecular dynamics simulations prioritized nine bioactive flavonoids as promising anti-SARS-CoV-2 agents exhibiting both high structural stability (root-mean-square deviation < 5 Å for 218 ns) and low MM/PBSA binding free energy (<−6 kcal/mol). Among them, KB-2 (PubChem-CID, 14630497) and 9-O-Methylglyceofuran (PubChem-CID, 44257401) displayed excellent binding affinity and desirable pharmacokinetic capabilities. These compounds have great potential to serve as oral nutraceuticals with therapeutic and prophylactic properties as care strategies for patients with long-COVID syndrome.