bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blinatumomab Redirects Donor Lymphocytes against CD19+ Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia without Relevant Bystander Alloreactivity after Haploidentical Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Mancusi Antonella , Zorutti Francesco , Ruggeri Loredana , Bonato Samanta , Tricarico Sara , Zei Tiziana , Iacucci Ostini Roberta , Viglione Valerio , Sembenico Rebecca , Sciabolacci Sofia , Cardinali Valeria , Martelli Massimo Fabrizio , Mecucci Cristina , Carotti Alessandra , Martelli Maria Paola , Velardi Andrea , Pierini Antonio
Published: November 2023

Blinatumomab alone or with donor leukocyte infusions (DLI) has been used after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) as a salvage therapy in relapsing patients with CD19+ hematological malignancies. It was effective in a fraction of them, with low incidence of Graft-versus-Host Disease (GvHD). Immunosuppressive drugs used as GvHD prophylaxis hinder T cell function and reduce the efficacy of the treatment. Because T cell-depleted haploidentical HSCT with donor regulatory and conventional T cells (Treg/Tcon haploidentical HSCT) does not require post-transplant immunosuppression, it is an ideal platform for the concomitant use of blinatumomab and DLI. However, the risk of GvHD is high because the donor is haploidentical. We treated two patients with CD19+ acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) who had relapsed after Treg/Tcon haploidentical HSCT with blinatumomab and DLI. Despite the mismatch for one HLA haplotype, they did not develop GvHD and achieved complete remission with negative minimal residual disease. Consistently, we found that blinatumomab did not enhance T cell alloreactivity in vitro. Eventually, the two patients relapsed again because of their high disease risk. This study suggests that treatment with blinatumomab and DLI can be feasible to treat relapse after haploidentical transplantation, and its pre-emptive use should be considered to improve efficacy.
RNF138 Downregulates Antiviral Innate Immunity by Inhibiting IRF3 Activation
Authors: Zeng Xianhuang , Liu Chaozhi , Fan Jinhao , Zou Jiabin , Guo Mingxiong , Sun Guihong
Published: November 2023

A viral infection activates the transcription factors IRF3 and NF-κB, which synergistically induces type I interferons (IFNs). Here, we identify the E3 ubiquitin ligase RNF138 as an important negative regulator of virus-triggered IRF3 activation and IFN-β induction. The overexpression of RNF138 inhibited the virus-induced activation of IRF3 and the transcription of the IFNB1 gene, whereas the knockout of RNF138 promoted the virus-induced activation of IRF3 and transcription of the IFNB1 gene. We further found that RNF138 promotes the ubiquitination of PTEN and subsequently inhibits PTEN interactions with IRF3, which is essential for the PTEN-mediated nuclear translocation of IRF3, thereby inhibiting IRF3 import into the nucleus. Our findings suggest that RNF138 negatively regulates virus-triggered signaling by inhibiting the interaction of PTEN with IRF3, and these data provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms of cellular antiviral responses.
Identification of a Pentasaccharide Lead Compound with High Affinity to the SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein via In Silico Screening
Authors: Li Binjie , Zhang Tianji , Cao Hui , Ferro Vito , Li Jinping , Yu Mingjia
Published: November 2023

The spike (S) protein on the surface of the SARS-CoV-2 virus is critical to mediate fusion with the host cell membrane through interaction with angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). Additionally, heparan sulfate (HS) on the host cell surface acts as an attachment factor to facilitate the binding of the S receptor binding domain (RBD) to the ACE2 receptor. Aiming at interfering with the HS-RBD interaction to protect against SARS-CoV-2 infection, we have established a pentasaccharide library composed of 14,112 compounds covering the possible sulfate substitutions on the three sugar units (GlcA, IdoA, and GlcN) of HS. The library was used for virtual screening against RBD domains of SARS-CoV-2. Molecular modeling was carried out to evaluate the potential antiviral properties of the top-hit pentasaccharide focusing on the interactive regions around the interface of RBD-HS-ACE2. The lead pentasaccharide with the highest affinity for RBD was analyzed via drug-likeness calculations, showing better predicted druggable profiles than those currently reported for RBD-binding HS mimetics. The results provide significant information for the development of HS-mimetics as anti-SARS-CoV-2 agents.
Microbiome-Mediated Protection against Pathogens in Woody Plants
Authors: Xiong Qin , Yang Jun , Ni Siyi
Published: November 2023

Pathogens, especially invasive species, have caused significant global ecological, economic, and social losses in forests. Plant disease research has traditionally focused on direct interactions between plants and pathogens in an appropriate environment. However, recent research indicates that the microbiome can interact with the plant host and pathogens to modulate plant resistance or pathogen pathogenicity, thereby altering the outcome of plant–pathogen interactions. Thus, this presents new opportunities for studying the microbial management of forest diseases. Compared to parallel studies on human and crop microbiomes, research into the forest tree microbiome and its critical role in forest disease progression has lagged. The rapid development of microbiome sequencing and analysis technologies has resulted in the rapid accumulation of a large body of evidence regarding the association between forest microbiomes and diseases. These data will aid the development of innovative, effective, and environmentally sustainable methods for the microbial management of forest diseases. Herein, we summarize the most recent findings on the dynamic structure and composition of forest tree microbiomes in belowground and aboveground plant tissues (i.e., rhizosphere, endosphere, and phyllosphere), as well as their pleiotropic impact on plant immunity and pathogen pathogenicity, highlighting representative examples of biological control agents used to modulate relevant tree microbiomes. Lastly, we discuss the potential application of forest tree microbiomes in disease control as well as their future prospects and challenges.
The Impact of Data on Structure-Based Binding Affinity Predictions Using Deep Neural Networks
Authors: Libouban Pierre-Yves , Aci-Sèche Samia , Gómez-Tamayo Jose Carlos , Tresadern Gary , Bonnet Pascal
Published: November 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) has gained significant traction in the field of drug discovery, with deep learning (DL) algorithms playing a crucial role in predicting protein–ligand binding affinities. Despite advancements in neural network architectures, system representation, and training techniques, the performance of DL affinity prediction has reached a plateau, prompting the question of whether it is truly solved or if the current performance is overly optimistic and reliant on biased, easily predictable data. Like other DL-related problems, this issue seems to stem from the training and test sets used when building the models. In this work, we investigate the impact of several parameters related to the input data on the performance of neural network affinity prediction models. Notably, we identify the size of the binding pocket as a critical factor influencing the performance of our statistical models; furthermore, it is more important to train a model with as much data as possible than to restrict the training to only high-quality datasets. Finally, we also confirm the bias in the typically used current test sets. Therefore, several types of evaluation and benchmarking are required to understand models’ decision-making processes and accurately compare the performance of models.
Exposure to Oxidized Multi-Walled CNTs Can Lead to Oxidative Stress in the Asian Freshwater Clam Corbicula fluminea (Müller, 1774)
Authors: Cid-Samamed Antonio , Correa-Duarte Miguel Ángel , Mariño-López Andrea , Diniz Mário S.
Published: November 2023

The increasing attention that carbon-based nanomaterials have attracted due to their distinctive properties makes them one of the most widely used nanomaterials for industrial purposes. However, their toxicity and environmental effects must be carefully studied, particularly regarding aquatic biota. The implications of these carbon-based nanomaterials on aquatic ecosystems, due to their potential entry or accidental release during manufacturing and treatment processes, need to be studied because their impacts upon living organisms are not fully understood. In this research work, the toxicity of oxidized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (Ox-MWCNTs) was measured using the freshwater bivalve (Corbicula fluminea) after exposure to different concentrations (0, 0.1, 0.2, and 0.5 mg·L−1 Ox-MWCNTs) for 14 days. The oxidized multi-walled carbon nanotubes were analyzed (pH, Raman microscopy, high-resolution electron microscopy, and dynamic light scattering), showing their properties and behavior (size, aggregation state, and structure) in water media. The antioxidant defenses in the organism’s digestive gland and gills were evaluated through measuring oxidative stress enzymes (glutathione-S-transferase, catalase, and superoxide dismutase), lipid peroxidation, and total ubiquitin. The results showed a concentration-dependent response of antioxidant enzymes (CAT and GST) in both tissues (gills and digestive glands) for all exposure periods in bivalves exposed to the different concentrations of oxidized multi-walled carbon nanotubes. Lipid peroxidation (MDA content) showed a variable response with the increase in oxidized multi-walled carbon nanotubes in the gills after 7 and 14 exposure days. Overall, after 14 days, there was an increase in total Ub compared to controls. Overall, the oxidative stress observed after the exposure of Corbicula fluminea to oxidized multi-walled carbon nanotubes indicates that the discharge of these nanomaterials into aquatic ecosystems can affect the biota as well as potentially accumulate in the trophic chain, and may even put human health at risk if they ingest contaminated animals.
Promotion of Ca2+ Accumulation in Roots by Exogenous Brassinosteroids as a Key Mechanism for Their Enhancement of Plant Salt Tolerance: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review
Authors: Wang Xian , Chai Jiali , Liu Wenyu , Zhu Xiaolin , Liu Haixun , Wei Xiaohong
Published: November 2023

Brassinosteroids (BRs), the sixth major phytohormone, can regulate plant salt tolerance. Many studies have been conducted to investigate the effects of BRs on plant salt tolerance, generating a large amount of research data. However, a meta-analysis on regulating plant salt tolerance by BRs has not been reported. Therefore, this study conducted a meta-analysis of 132 studies to elucidate the most critical physiological mechanisms by which BRs regulate salt tolerance in plants from a higher dimension and analyze the best ways to apply BRs. The results showed that exogenous BRs significantly increased germination, plant height, root length, and biomass (total dry weight was the largest) of plants under salt stress. There was no significant difference between seed soaking and foliar spraying. However, the medium method (germination stage) and stem application (seedling stage) may be more effective in improving plant salt tolerance. BRs only inhibit germination in Solanaceae. BRs (2 μM), seed soaking for 12 h, and simultaneous treatment with salt stress had the highest germination rate. At the seedling stage, the activity of Brassinolide (C28H48O6) was higher than that of Homobrassinolide (C29H50O6), and post-treatment, BRs (0.02 μM) was the best solution. BRs are unsuitable for use in the germination stage when Sodium chloride is below 100 mM, and the effect is also weakest in the seedling stage. Exogenous BRs promoted photosynthesis, and antioxidant enzyme activity increased the accumulation of osmoregulatory and antioxidant substances and reduced the content of harmful substances and Na+, thus reducing cell damage and improving plant salt tolerance. BRs induced the most soluble protein, chlorophyll a, stomatal conductance, net photosynthetic rate, Glutathione peroxidase, and root-Ca2+, with BRs causing Ca2+ signals in roots probably constituting the most important reason for improving salt tolerance. BRs first promoted the accumulation of Ca2+ in roots, which increased the content of the above vital substances and enzyme activities through the Ca2+ signaling pathway, improving plant salt tolerance.
Nanoparticles Based on Silver Chloride and Bambusuril[6] for the Fine-Tuning of Biological Activity
Authors: Turebayeva Pana , Luchsheva Venera , Fedorishin Dmitriy , Yerkassov Rakhmetulla , Bakibaev Abdigali , Bolysbekova Saltanat , Tugambayeva Tokzhan , Sergazina Samal , Nurmukhanbetova Nurgul
Published: November 2023

The prevalence of numerous infectious diseases has emerged as a grave concern within the realm of healthcare. Currently, the issue of antibiotic resistance is compelling scientists to explore novel treatment approaches. To combat these infectious diseases, various treatment methods have been developed, harnessing cutting-edge disinfecting nanomaterials. Among the range of metallic nanoparticles employed in medicine, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) stand out as both highly popular and well-suited for the task. They find extensive utility in cancer diagnosis and therapies and as effective antibacterial agents. The interaction between silver and bacterial cells induces significant structural and morphological alterations, ultimately leading to cell demise. In this study, nanoparticles based on silver and bambusuril[6] (BU[6]) were developed for the first time. These NPs can be used for different biomedical purposes. A simple, single-step, and effective synthesis method was employed to produce bambusuril[6]-protected silver chloride nanoparticles (BU[6]-Ag/AgCl NPs) through the complexation of BU[6] with silver nitrate. The NPs were characterized using X-ray phase analysis (XPS), infrared spectroscopy (IR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). When the SEM images were examined, it was seen that the synthesized BU[6]-Ag/AgCl NPs were distributed with homogeneous sizes, and the synthesized NPs were mostly spherical and cubic. The EDS spectra of BU[6]-Ag/AgCl NPs demonstrated the presence of Ag, Cl, and all expected elements. BU[6]-Ag/AgCl NPs showed high antibacterial activity against both E. coli and S. aureus bacteria.
The Beneficial Fungus Mortierella hyalina Modulates Amino Acid Homeostasis in Arabidopsis under Nitrogen Starvation
Authors: Svietlova Nataliia , Reichelt Michael , Zhyr Liza , Majumder Anindya , Scholz Sandra S. , Grabe Veit , Krapp Anne , Oelmüller Ralf , Mithöfer Axel
Published: November 2023

Non-mycorrhizal but beneficial fungi often mitigate (a)biotic stress-related traits in host plants. The underlying molecular mechanisms are mostly still unknown, as in the interaction between the endophytic growth-promoting soil fungus Mortierella hyalina and Arabidopsis thaliana. Here, abiotic stress in the form of nitrogen (N) deficiency was used to investigate the effects of the fungus on colonized plants. In particular, the hypothesis was investigated that fungal infection could influence N deficiency via an interaction with the high-affinity nitrate transporter NRT2.4, which is induced by N deficiency. For this purpose, Arabidopsis wild-type nrt2.4 knock-out and NRT2.4 reporter lines were grown on media with different nitrate concentrations with or without M. hyalina colonization. We used chemical analysis methods to determine the amino acids and phytohormones. Experimental evidence suggests that the fungus does not modulate NRT2.4 expression under N starvation. Instead, M. hyalina alleviates N starvation in other ways: The fungus supplies nitrogen (15N) to the N-starved plant. The presence of the fungus restores the plants’ amino acid homeostasis, which was out of balance due to N deficiency, and causes a strong accumulation of branched-chain amino acids. We conclude that the plant does not need to invest in defense and resources for growth are maintained, which in turn benefits the fungus, suggesting that this interaction should be considered a mutualistic symbiosis.
Evaluating Manganese, Zinc, and Copper Metal Toxicity on SH-SY5Y Cells in Establishing an Idiopathic Parkinson’s Disease Model
Authors: Pradhan Sahar H. , Liu James Y. , Sayes Christie M.
Published: November 2023

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative condition marked by loss of motor coordination and cognitive impairment. According to global estimates, the worldwide prevalence of PD will likely exceed 12 million cases by 2040. PD is primarily associated with genetic factors, while clinically, cases are attributed to idiopathic factors such as environmental or occupational exposure. The heavy metals linked to PD and other neurodegenerative disorders include copper, manganese, and zinc. Chronic exposure to metals induces elevated oxidative stress and disrupts homeostasis, resulting in neuronal death. These metals are suggested to induce idiopathic PD in the literature. This study measures the effects of lethal concentration at 10% cell death (LC10) and lethal concentration at 50% cell death (LC50) concentrations of copper, manganese, and zinc chlorides on SH-SY5Y cells via markers for dopamine, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, DNA damage, and mitochondrial dysfunction after a 24 h exposure. These measurements were compared to a known neurotoxin to induce PD, 100 µM 6-hydroxydopamine (6-ODHA). Between the three metal chlorides, zinc was statistically different in all parameters from all other treatments and induced significant dopaminergic loss, DNA damage, and mitochondrial dysfunction. The LC50 of manganese and copper had the most similar response to 6-ODHA in all parameters, while LC10 of manganese and copper responded most like untreated cells. This study suggests that these metal chlorides respond differently from 6-ODHA and each other, suggesting that idiopathic PD utilizes a different mechanism from the classic PD model.
Thrombo-Inflammatory Extracellular Vesicles 2.0
Authors: Neri Tommaso
Published: November 2023

In the complex field of cell-to-cell communication and physiological regulation, there is a remarkable category of tiny messengers called extracellular vesicles (EVs) [...]
5-Nitroisoxazoles in SNAr Reactions: A Novel Chemo- and Regioselective Approach to Isoxazole-Based Bivalent Ligands of AMPA Receptors
Authors: Vasilenko Dmitry A. , Temnyakova Nadezhda S. , Dronov Sevastian E. , Radchenko Eugene V. , Grishin Yuri K. , Gabrel’yan Alexey V. , Zamoyski Vladimir L. , Grigoriev Vladimir V. , Averina Elena B. , Palyulin Vladimir A.
Published: November 2023

An efficient regioselective approach to novel functionalized bis(isoxazoles) with a variety of aromatic and aliphatic linkers was elaborated, based on the heterocyclization reaction of electrophilic alkenes under the treatment with tetranitromethane-triethylamine complex affording 3-EWG-5-nitroisoxazoles. The subsequent SNAr reactions of 5-nitroisoxazoles with various O,O-, N,N- and S,S-bis(nucleophiles) provide a wide range of bis(isoxazole) derivatives in good isolated yields. Employing an elaborated method, a series of novel bis(3-EWG-isoxazoles) as the promising allosteric modulators of AMPA receptors were designed and synthesized. The effect of the compounds on the kainate-induced currents was studied in the patch clamp experiments, revealing modulator properties for several of them. The best positive modulator potency was found for dimethyl 5,5′-(ethane-1,2-diylbis(sulfanediyl))bis(isoxazole-3-carboxylate), which potentiated the kainate-induced currents in a wide concentration range (10−12–10−6 M) with maximum potentiation of 77% at 10−10 M. The results were rationalized using molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations of modulator complexes with the dimeric ligand-binding domain of the GluA2 AMPA receptor. The predicted physicochemical, ADMET, and PAINS properties confirmed that the AMPA receptor modulators based on the bis(isoxazole) scaffold may serve as potential lead compounds for the development of neuroprotective drugs.
Host Genetic Background Effect on Body Weight Changes Influenced by Heterozygous Smad4 Knockout Using Collaborative Cross Mouse Population
Authors: Qahaz Nayrouz , Lone Iqbal M. , Khadija Aya , Ghnaim Aya , Zohud Osayd , Nun Nadav Ben , Nashef Aysar , Abu El-Naaj Imad , Iraqi Fuad A.
Published: November 2023

Obesity and its attendant conditions have become major health problems worldwide, and obesity is currently ranked as the fifth most common cause of death globally. Complex environmental and genetic factors are causes of the current obesity epidemic. Diet, lifestyle, chemical exposure, and other confounding factors are difficult to manage in humans. The mice model is helpful in researching genetic BW gain because genetic and environmental risk factors can be controlled in mice. Studies in mouse strains with various genetic backgrounds and established genetic structures provide unparalleled opportunities to find and analyze trait-related genomic loci. In this study, we used the Collaborative Cross (CC), a large panel of recombinant inbred mouse strains, to present a predictive study using heterozygous Smad4 knockout profiles of CC mice to understand and effectively identify predispositions to body weight gain. Male C57Bl/6J Smad4+/− mice were mated with female mice from 10 different CC lines to create F1 mice (Smad4+/−x CC). Body weight (BW) was measured weekly until week 16 and then monthly until the end of the study (week 48). The heritability (H2) of the assessed traits was estimated and presented. Comparative analysis of various machine learning algorithms for predicting the BW changes and genotype of mice was conducted. Our data showed that the body weight records of F1 mice with different CC lines differed between wild-type and mutant Smad4 mice during the experiment. Genetic background affects weight gain and some lines gained more weight in the presence of heterozygous Smad4 knockout, while others gained less, but, in general, the mutation caused overweight mice, except for a few lines. In both control and mutant groups, female %BW had a higher heritability (H2) value than males. Additionally, both sexes with wild-type genotypes showed higher heritability values than the mutant group. Logistic regression provides the most accurate mouse genotype predictions using machine learning. We plan to validate the proposed method on more CC lines and mice per line to expand the literature on machine learning for BW prediction.
Regulation of the Gene for Alanine Racemase Modulates Amino Acid Metabolism with Consequent Alterations in Cell Wall Properties and Adhesive Capability in Brucella spp.
Authors: Hao Mingyue , Wang Minghui , Tang Ting , Zhao Danyu , Yin Shurong , Shi Yong , Liu Xiaofang , Wudong Gaowa , Yang Yuanhao , Zhang Mengyu , Qi Lin , Zhou Dong , Liu Wei , Jin Yaping , Wang Aihua
Published: November 2023

Brucella, a zoonotic facultative intracellular pathogenic bacterium, poses a significant threat both to human health and to the development of the livestock industry. Alanine racemase (Alr), the enzyme responsible for alanine racemization, plays a pivotal role in regulating virulence in this bacterium. Moreover, Brucella mutants with alr gene deletions (Δalr) exhibit potential as vaccine candidates. However, the mechanisms that underlie the detrimental effects of alr knockouts on Brucella pathogenicity remain elusive. Here, initially, we conducted a bioinformatics analysis of Alr, which demonstrated a high degree of conservation of the protein within Brucella spp. Subsequent metabolomics studies unveiled alterations in amino acid pathways following deletion of the alr gene. Furthermore, alr deletion in Brucella suis S2 induced decreased resistance to stress, antibiotics, and other factors. Transmission electron microscopy of simulated macrophage intracellular infection revealed damage to the cell wall in the Δalr strain, whereas propidium iodide staining and alkaline phosphatase and lactate dehydrogenase assays demonstrated alterations in cell membrane permeability. Changes in cell wall properties were revealed by measurements of cell surface hydrophobicity and zeta potential. Finally, the diminished adhesion capacity of the Δalr strain was shown by immunofluorescence and bacterial enumeration assays. In summary, our findings indicate that the alr gene that regulates amino acid metabolism in Brucella influences the properties of the cell wall, which modulates bacterial adherence capability. This study is the first demonstration that Alr impacts virulence by modulating bacterial metabolism, thereby providing novel insights into the pathogenic mechanisms of Brucella spp.
In-Vehicle Network Intrusion Detection System Using Convolutional Neural Network and Multi-Scale Histograms
Authors: Baldini Gianmarco
Published: November 2023

Cybersecurity in modern vehicles has received increased attention from the research community in recent years. Intrusion Detection Systems (IDSs) are one of the techniques used to detect and mitigate cybersecurity risks. This paper proposes a novel implementation of an IDS for in-vehicle security networks based on the concept of multi-scale histograms, which capture the frequencies of message identifiers in CAN-bus in-vehicle networks. In comparison to existing approaches in the literature based on a single histogram, the proposed approach widens the informative context used by the IDS for traffic analysis by taking into consideration sequences of two and three CAN-bus messages to create multi-scale dictionaries. The histograms are created from windows of in-vehicle network traffic. A preliminary multi-scale histogram model is created using only legitimate traffic. Against this model, the IDS performs traffic analysis to create a feature space based on the correlation of the histograms. Then, the created feature space is given in input to a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) for the identification of the windows of traffic where the attack is present. The proposed approach has been evaluated on two different public data sets achieving a very competitive performance in comparison to the literature.
OW-SLR: Overlapping Windows on Semi-Local Region for Image Super-Resolution
Authors: Bhardwaj Rishav , Jothi Balaji Janarthanam , Lakshminarayanan Vasudevan
Published: November 2023

There has been considerable progress in implicit neural representation to upscale an image to any arbitrary resolution. However, existing methods are based on defining a function to predict the Red, Green and Blue (RGB) value from just four specific loci. Relying on just four loci is insufficient as it leads to losing fine details from the neighboring region(s). We show that by taking into account the semi-local region leads to an improvement in performance. In this paper, we propose applying a new technique called Overlapping Windows on Semi-Local Region (OW-SLR) to an image to obtain any arbitrary resolution by taking the coordinates of the semi-local region around a point in the latent space. This extracted detail is used to predict the RGB value of a point. We illustrate the technique by applying the algorithm to the Optical Coherence Tomography-Angiography (OCT-A) images and show that it can upscale them to random resolution. This technique outperforms the existing state-of-the-art methods when applied to the OCT500 dataset. OW-SLR provides better results for classifying healthy and diseased retinal images such as diabetic retinopathy and normals from the given set of OCT-A images.
A Comparative Analysis of CFD and the Potential Flow Method for the Pure Loss of Stability in Following Waves
Authors: Zeng Ke , Lu Jiang , Gu Min , Yang Chen
Published: November 2023

Improving the cognition and numerical accuracy of stability failure is urgent for carrying forward the direct assessment stability of the new-generation performance-based criteria for intact stability issued by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in 2020. Firstly, the CFD method utilizing commercial software is developed for predicting stability failure in following seas. The CFD method employed overlapping grid techniques to achieve coupled motion calculations with a free-running model. The actual propeller rate, the implemented auto polite course-keeping, the coupled effect of the ship hull–propeller–rudder, and the instantaneous wet hull are considered in the CFD method. Secondly, a comprehensive 6-DOF mathematical model, employing the MMG framework and potential flow theory, is utilized to predict stability failure in the following waves. The radiation and diffraction forces are calculated around the mean wet hull using an enhanced strip method, and the FK and hydrostatic forces are calculated around the exact wet hull in waves. Thirdly, the occurrence of pure stability loss and subsequent large roll motions or capsizing for the ONR tumblehome ship are simulated by the time domain CFD and potential flow method. Finally, the computed results are cross-referenced with the available experimental data, and the trends of maximum roll angle are found to be consistent with the test data. Additionally, the alterations in thrust and torque exerted by the twin rudders and propellers are assessed across various sailing speeds, as well as the characteristics of the flow field distribution around the hull and appendages during capsizing at the critical sailing speed, which are newly analyzed by the CFD method.
Developing Functional Recharge Systems to Control Saltwater Intrusion via Integrating Physical, Numerical, and Decision-Making Models for Coastal Aquifer Sustainability
Authors: Miky Yehia , Issa Usama Hamed , Mahmod Wael Elham
Published: November 2023

Controlling the hydraulic heads along a coastal aquifer may help to effectively manage saltwater intrusion, improve the conventional barrier’s countermeasure, and ensure the coastal aquifer’s long-term viability. This study proposed a framework that utilizes a decision-making model (DMM) by incorporating the results of two other models (physical and numerical) to determine proper countermeasure components. The physical model is developed to analyze the behavior of saltwater intrusion in unconfined coastal aquifers by conducting two experiments: one for the base case, and one for the traditional vertical barrier. MODFLOW is used to create a numerical model for the same aquifer, and experimental data are used to calibrate and validate it. Three countermeasure combinations, including vertical barrier, surface, and subsurface recharges, are numerically investigated using three model case categories. Category (a) model cases investigate the hydraulic head’s variation along the aquifer to determine the best recharge location. Under categories (b) and (c), the effects of surface and subsurface recharges are studied separately or in conjunction with a vertical barrier. As a pre-set of the DMM, evaluation and classification ratios are created from the physical and numerical models, respectively. The evaluation ratios are used to characterize the model case results, while the classification ratios are used to classify each model case as best or worst. An analytical hierarchy process (AHP) as a DMM is built using the hydraulic head, salt line, repulsion, wedge area, and recharge as selection criteria to select the overall best model case. According to the results, the optimum recharging location is in the length ratio (LR) from 0.45 to 0.55. Furthermore, the DMM supports case3b (vertical barrier + surface recharge) as the best model case to use, with a support percentage of 48%, implying that this case has a good numerical model classification with a maximum repulsion ratio (Rr) of 29.4%, and an acceptable wedge area ratio (WAR) of 1.25. The proposed framework could be used in various case studies under different conditions to assist decision-makers in evaluating and controlling saltwater intrusion in coastal aquifers.
Enhanced Mixing Induced by Near-Inertial Waves Inferred by Glider Observation in the Northern South China Sea
Authors: Mao Huabin , Qi Yongfeng , Chen Ying , Yu Jiancheng
Published: November 2023

Enhanced turbulence triggered by near-inertial wave (NIW) trapping by a mesoscale anticyclone and typhoon “Kompasu” was observed in the northern South China Sea. The observations provide evidence for the trapping of NIW packets of amplitude ~0.2 m/s near the base of an anticyclonic eddy, and of ~0.3 m/s after the passage of typhoon “Kompasu”. The wave energy was amplified in a layer located near the base of the anticyclonic eddy, between 150 and 300 m, while stronger NIWs triggered by the typhoon extended to depths > 500 m. Diffusivity was calculated by a fine-scale parameterization. A diffusivity elevated by one order of magnitude, the occurrence of high near-inertial velocity shears, and the low (≤1) Richardson numbers were consistent with turbulence production and mixing from the base of the anticyclonic eddy and following the passage of the typhoon, and were associated with the trapped NIWs. This study showed that, by serving as a bridge between mesoscale eddies and small-scale motion, NIWs are an important pathway for ocean energy transmission. Mesoscale-NIW interactions represent a significant source of NIWs as well as a sink of mesoscale energy.
A Deep Insight into the Diversity of Microfungal Communities in Arctic and Antarctic Lakes
Authors: Marchetta Alessia , Papale Maria , Rappazzo Alessandro Ciro , Rizzo Carmen , Camacho Antonio , Rochera Carlos , Azzaro Maurizio , Urzì Clara , Lo Giudice Angelina , De Leo Filomena
Published: November 2023

We assessed fungal diversity in water and sediment samples obtained from five Arctic lakes in Ny-Ålesund (Svalbard Islands, High Arctic) and five Antarctic lakes on Livingston and Deception Islands (South Shetland Islands), using DNA metabarcoding. A total of 1,639,074 fungal DNA reads were detected and assigned to 5980 ASVs amplicon sequence variants (ASVs), with only 102 (1.7%) that were shared between the two Polar regions. For Arctic lakes, unknown fungal taxa dominated the sequence assemblages, suggesting the dominance of possibly undescribed fungi. The phylum Chytridiomycota was the most represented in the majority of Arctic and Antarctic samples, followed by Rozellomycota, Ascomycota, Basidiomycota, and the less frequent Monoblepharomycota, Aphelidiomycota, Mortierellomycota, Mucoromycota, and Neocallimastigomycota. At the genus level, the most abundant genera included psychrotolerant and cosmopolitan cold-adapted fungi including Alternaria, Cladosporium, Cadophora, Ulvella (Ascomycota), Leucosporidium, Vishniacozyma (Basidiomycota), and Betamyces (Chytridiomycota). The assemblages displayed high diversity and richness. The assigned diversity was composed mainly of taxa recognized as saprophytic fungi, followed by pathogenic and symbiotic fungi.
Driving Mechanism of Comprehensive Land Consolidation on Urban–Rural Development Elements Integration
Authors: Zuo Yuyao , Yang Chaoxian , Xin Guixin , Wu Ya , Chen Rongrong
Published: November 2023

Identifying the driving mechanism of comprehensive land consolidation (CLC) on urban–rural development elements integration (URDEI) is of great significance for promoting the coordinated development of urban and rural areas. Based on the composition of urban and rural element systems, this study establishes the theoretical framework of the influence of CLC on URDEI and verifies the framework through empirical cases in Chongqing, China. The results show that (1) CLC promotes URDEI and realizes the rational allocation of urban and rural resources by improving the quality of urban and rural elements and opening up two-way flow channels. (2) The case analysis demonstrates that CLC can improve the quality of rural elements and increase the added value of the flow to the city, which in turn drives urban elements such as talents, technology, and capital to pour into the countryside, therefore forming a realistic path for the URDEI. This study helps understand the role of CLC in the transformation of URDEI and provides a reference for the scientific implementation of land consolidation.
Synthesis and In Vitro Biocompatibility Studies of Novel Alkoxy 4,4-Difluoro-4-bora-3a,4a-diaza-s-indacenes
Authors: Santos Margarida G. , Araújo Juliana , Carmo Chrislaura , Santos Leonardo , Botelho Maria Filomena , Laranjo Mafalda , Sobral Abílio J. F. N.
Published: November 2023

BODIPYs are bicyclic aromatic compounds with unique spectroscopic, photophysical, and chemical properties. This study aimed to find BODIPYs with characteristics biocompatible with human cell lines for possible use as imaging agents. Six BODIPY derivatives were synthesised with groups linked to boron, fluorine, phenol, or catechol, resulting in compounds with different physicochemical characteristics. NMR, absorption, and emission spectroscopy and mass spectrometry were subsequently used to characterise them. Afterwards, the biocompatibility of these compounds was evaluated using MTT, SRB, and cellular uptake assays in A549 and H1299 cell lines. Furthermore, a haemolysis assay was performed on human blood cells. To summarise the main results, BODIPYs 1 to 4 showed considerable fluorescence. In contrast, BODIPYs 5 and 6 showed very weak fluorescence, which could be related to the presence of the catechol group and its quenching properties. Regarding biocompatibility, all compounds had metabolic activity and viability above 80% and 70%, respectively. BODIPYs 3 and 6 presented the most consistent data, demonstrating good uptake and, in general, haemolytic activity below 25%. In conclusion, the cytotoxic effects of the compounds were not considerable, and the presence of cyclic alkoxides in BODIPYs 3 and 6 may introduce exciting features that should be highlighted for dual imaging for BODIPY 3 due to its fluorescence or for radioactive labelling in the case of both BODIPYs.
Eco-Friendly Multilayer Coating Harnessing the Functional Features of Curcuma-Based Pigment and Rice Bran Wax as a Hydrophobic Filler
Authors: Calovi Massimo , Rossi Stefano
Published: November 2023

This work aims to highlight the multiple features shown by curcuma-based pigment and rice bran wax, which can be selectively employed as bio-based additives for the realization of multilayer wood coatings with multiple functionalities, harnessing the capabilities of the two environmentally friendly fillers, in line with current environmental sustainability trends. The role of the two green materials on the morphology of the composite layers was examined through observations employing scanning electron and optical microscopy, revealing a strong alteration of the film’s appearance, both its color and reflectivity. Additionally, their influence on the paint’s resilience was assessed by exposing the samples to UV-B radiation and consecutive thermal shocks. The coating displayed a clear and uniform change in color because of substantial curcuma powder photo-degradation but it remained exceptionally stable when subjected to thermal stresses. Moreover, the protective properties of the coatings were evaluated by conducting liquid resistance tests and water uptake tests, while the hardness and the abrasion resistance of the coatings were assessed to evaluate the effect of the additives on the mechanical properties of the coatings. In conclusion, this study showcases the promising joint action of curcuma-based pigment and rice bran wax in multilayer coatings. This combination offers vibrant yellow tones and an appealing appearance to the paint, enhances the surface’s water-repellent properties, and improves the mechanical resistance of the coatings.
Improving the Hydrophobicity of Plasticized Polyvinyl Chloride for Use in an Endotracheal Tube
Authors: Marcut Lavinia , Mohan Aurel George , Corneschi Iuliana , Grosu Elena , Paltanea Gheorghe , Avram Ionela , Badaluta Alexandra Valentina , Vasilievici Gabriel , Nicolae Cristian-Andi , Ditu Lia Mara
Published: November 2023

An endotracheal tube (ETT) is a greatly appreciated medical device at the global level with widespread application in the treatment of respiratory diseases, such as bronchitis and asthma, and in general anesthesia, to provide narcotic gases. Since an important quantitative request for cuffed ETTs was recorded during the COVID-19 pandemic, concerns about infection have risen. The plasticized polyvinyl chloride (PVC) material used to manufacture ETTs favors the attachment of microorganisms from the human biological environment and the migration of plasticizer from the polymer that feeds the microorganisms and promotes the growth of biofilms. This leads to developing infections, which means additional suffering, discomfort for patients, and increased hospital costs. In this work, we propose to modify the surfaces of some samples taken from commercial ETTs in order to develop their hydrophobic character using surface fluorination by a plasma treatment in SF6 discharge and magnetron sputtering physical evaporation from the PTFE target. Samples with surfaces thus modified were subsequently tested using XPS, ATR-FTIR, CA, SEM + EDAX, profilometry, density, Shore A hardness, TGA-DSC, and biological antimicrobial and biocompatibility properties. The obtained results demonstrate a successful increase in the hydrophobic character of the plasticized PVC samples and biocompatibility properties.
Characterization of Magnetic Biochar Modified Using the One-Step and Electrochemical Methods and Its Impact on Phosphate Adsorption
Authors: Mei Changgen , Wang Lulu , Tao Wei
Published: November 2023

The properties and phosphate adsorption capability of the one-step method and electrochemical method in modifying peanut shell biochar have been determined. The one-step method deposits MgO and Fe3O4 onto biochar through chemical impregnation and regularly affects the functional groups and magnetic separation of biochar, thereby enhancing its ability to adsorb phosphate. In contrast, the electrochemical method is not favorable for modifying functional groups of biochar but can promote phosphate adsorption because of the formation of MgFe2O4 and Fe3O4 using electrolysis. The adsorption isotherm and kinetics data suggest that adsorption is monolayer onto a homogeneous surface and phosphate adsorption could be controlled by chemical processes. Biochar with the addition of both Fe2+ and Mg2+ shows better phosphate adsorption capability than those with barely any Fe2+ additions. It was concluded that the one-step method is a better modification method than the electrochemical method for enhancing the phosphate adsorption capability of biochars.
Fatigue Reliability Assessment of RC Beams in Heavy-Haul Railways Based on Point Estimate Method
Authors: Shi Jiarui , Song Li , Cui Chenxing , Yu Zhiwu
Published: November 2023

Heavy-haul railways have a high passing frequency of trains with a large axle weight, causing rapid accumulation of fatigue damage in reinforced concrete (RC) bridge structures, which significantly affects the safety of the bridges. To study the fatigue reliability of RC beams in heavy-haul railways, the fatigue performance function for RC beams in heavy-haul railways was established, and the fatigue reliability assessment method for bridge structures in heavy-haul railways based on the point estimate method (PEM) was developed. An 8 meter-span plate beam in an existing heavy-haul railway illustrates the method. The train axle weight and dynamic coefficient were considered random variables, and the first four moments of equivalent stress ranges were obtained. The traffic quantity of the heavy-haul railways was investigated, and the fatigue reliability was evaluated using the proposed method. In addition, the effects of annual freight volume and train axle weight on fatigue reliability were discussed. Results indicate that PEM can effectively and accurately evaluate the fatigue reliability of RC beams in heavy-haul railways. In the first 20 years of operation, the fatigue failure probability was less than the limit value specified in the standard. The increase in annual traffic volume and train axle weight will cause a significant increase in fatigue failure probability. The research results of this paper are expected to provide an important basis for the design and maintenance of reinforced concrete bridges for heavy-haul railways in the future.
Research on Temperature Field of Controllable Bonded Prestressed Structure Based on Electrothermal Method
Authors: Xiong Xueyu , Jiang Nan
Published: November 2023

Controllable bonded prestress represents an innovative advancement stemming from retard-bonded prestress systems, distinguished by its intrinsic controllability in bonding. The controllable bonded binder can be artificially heated and cured rapidly through DC heating after the completion of prestressed tension, allowing for enhanced control over the process. FLUENT simulates controllable bonded prestressed structure’s temperature field, yielding a 1.73% max error validated against measured data. Based on the theory of heat transfer, the maximum error of the calculated temperature field of the controllable bonded test beam under DC heating using the Stehfest numerical algorithm is 1.28%, which exhibits a strong alignment with both simulated and measured results. The parameter analysis identifies current, binder thickness, and steel-strand diameter as key temperature distribution influencers. The relationship between the current and heating time follows a quadratic inverse pattern. Increasing the heating current can significantly reduce the duration of heating. Under identical heating conditions, the temperature of the controllable binder is directly proportional to its thickness. A higher thickness results in a higher temperature. Additionally, larger diameters of steel-stranded wire lead to a lower heating efficiency.
A Novel Individual Aircraft Life Monitoring Method Based on Reliable Life Consumption Assessment
Authors: Fu Yueshuai , Fu Huimin
Published: November 2023

Individual life monitoring is crucial for ensuring aircraft flight safety. Conventional life-consumption-based monitoring methods ignore reliability, thus disjoining them from the aircraft’s reliable life determination and extension, where high confidence and reliability are required. Therefore, this paper proposes a reliable life consumption and individual life monitoring method for aircraft structure fatigue. In the paper, the P-S-N curve, i.e., the relationship between the aircraft structure’s life (N) and fatigue load (S) under a certain probability (P), is established, by which the lower confidence limit of the aircraft structure’s reliable life can be evaluated under any fatigue loads. Based on that and the aircraft’s monitored fatigue loads, the indexes of reliable life consumption and remaining reliable life percentages are proposed and assessed in real time for individual aircraft life monitoring and online life management. Case studies indicate that the proposed method can guarantee high confidence and reliability requirements in individual life monitoring, consistent with the aircraft’s life determination and extension, which are widely accepted nowadays in engineering practice.
General Stability for the Viscoelastic Wave Equation with Nonlinear Time-Varying Delay, Nonlinear Damping and Acoustic Boundary Conditions
Authors: Lee Mi Jin , Kang Jum-Ran
Published: November 2023

This paper is focused on energy decay rates for the viscoelastic wave equation that includes nonlinear time-varying delay, nonlinear damping at the boundary, and acoustic boundary conditions. We derive general decay rate results without requiring the condition a2>0 and without imposing any restrictive growth assumption on the damping term f1, using the multiplier method and some properties of the convex functions. Here we investigate the relaxation function ψ, namely ψ′(t)≤−μ(t)G(ψ(t)), where G is a convex and increasing function near the origin, and μ is a positive nonincreasing function. Moreover, the energy decay rates depend on the functions μ and G, as well as the function F defined by f0, which characterizes the growth behavior of f1 at the origin.