bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
UHPLC-MS Metabolomic Fingerprinting, Antioxidant, and Enzyme Inhibition Activities of Himantormia lugubris from Antarctica
Authors: Areche Carlos , Parra Javier , Sepulveda Beatriz , García-Beltrán Olimpo , Simirgiotis Mario
Published: June 2022

Himantormia lugubris is a Chilean native small lichen shrub growing in the Antarctica region. In this study, the metabolite fingerprinting and the antioxidant and enzyme inhibitory potential from this species and its four major isolated compounds were investigated for the first time. Using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole-Orbitrap mass spectrometry analysis (UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap-MS), several metabolites were identified including specific compounds as chemotaxonomical markers, while major metabolites were quantified in this species. A good inhibition activity against cholinesterase (acetylcholinesterase (AChE) IC50: 12.38 ± 0.09 µg/mL, butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) IC50: 31.54 ± 0.20 µg/mL) and tyrosinase (22.32 ± 0.21 µg/mL) enzymes of the alcoholic extract and the main compounds (IC50: 28.82 ± 0.10 µg/mL, 36.43 ± 0.08 µg/mL, and 7.25 ± 0.18 µg/mL, respectively, for the most active phenolic atranol) was found. The extract showed a total phenolic content of 47.4 + 0.0 mg of gallic acid equivalents/g. In addition, antioxidant activity was assessed using bleaching of DPPH and ORAC (IC50: 75.3 ± 0.02 µg/mL and 32.7 ± 0.7 μmol Trolox/g lichen, respectively) and FRAP (27.8 ± 0.0 μmol Trolox equivalent/g) experiments. The findings suggest that H. lugubris is a rich source of bioactive compounds with potentiality in the prevention of neurodegenerative or noncommunicable chronic diseases.
Lipid Peroxidation Produces a Diverse Mixture of Saturated and Unsaturated Aldehydes in Exhaled Breath That Can Serve as Biomarkers of Lung Cancer—A Review
Authors: Sutaria Saurin R. , Gori Sadakatali S. , Morris James D. , Xie Zhenzhen , Fu Xiao-An , Nantz Michael H.
Published: June 2022

The peroxidation of unsaturated fatty acids is a widely recognized metabolic process that creates a complex mixture of volatile organic compounds including aldehydes. Elevated levels of reactive oxygen species in cancer cells promote random lipid peroxidation, which leads to a variety of aldehydes. In the case of lung cancer, many of these volatile aldehydes are exhaled and are of interest as potential markers of the disease. Relevant studies reporting aldehydes in the exhaled breath of lung cancer patients were collected for this review by searching the PubMed and SciFindern databases until 25 May 2022. Information on breath test results, including the biomarker collection, preconcentration, and quantification methods, was extracted and tabulated. Overall, 44 studies were included spanning a period of 34 years. The data show that, as a class, aldehydes are significantly elevated in the breath of lung cancer patients at all stages of the disease relative to healthy control subjects. The type of aldehyde detected and/or deemed to be a biomarker is highly dependent on the method of exhaled breath sampling and analysis. Unsaturated aldehydes, detected primarily when derivatized during preconcentration, are underrepresented as biomarkers given that they are also likely products of lipid peroxidation. Pentanal, hexanal, and heptanal were the most reported aldehydes in studies of exhaled breath from lung cancer patients.
Bee Pollen and Probiotics May Alter Brain Neuropeptide Levels in a Rodent Model of Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Alghamdi Mashael A. , Al-Ayadhi Laila , Hassan Wail M. , Bhat Ramesa Shafi , Alonazi Mona A. , El-Ansary Afaf
Published: June 2022

Neuropeptides play a major role in maintaining normal brain development in children. Dysfunction of some specific neuropeptides can lead to autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in terms of social interaction and repetitive behavior, but the exact underlying etiological mechanisms are still not clear. In this study, we used an animal model of autism to investigate the role of bee pollen and probiotic in maintaining neuropeptide levels in the brain. We measured the Alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), Beta-endorphin (β-End), neurotensin (NT), and substance P (SP) in brain homogenates of six studied groups of rats. Group I served as control, given only PBS for 30 days; Group II as an autistic model treated with 250 mg PPA/kg BW/day for 3 days after being given PBS for 27 days. Groups III-VI were denoted as intervention groups. G-III was treated with bee pollen (BP) 250 mg/kg body weight/day; G-IV with Lactobacillus paracaseii (LB) (109 CFU/mL) suspended in PBS; G-V with 0.2 g/kg body weight/day Protexin®, a mixture of probiotics (MPB); and G-VI was transplanted with stool from normal animals (FT) for 27 days prior to the induction of PPA neurotoxicity on the last 3 days of study (days 28–30). The obtained data were analyzed through the use of principal component analysis (PCA), discriminant analysis (DA), hierarchical clustering, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves as excellent statistical tools in the field of biomarkers. The obtained data revealed that brain levels of the four measured neuropeptides were significantly reduced in PPA-treated animals compared to healthy control animals. Moreover, the findings demonstrate the ameliorative effects of bee pollen as a prebiotic and of the pure or mixed probiotics. This study proves the protective effects of pre and probiotics against the neurotoxic effects of PPA presented as impaired levels of α-MSH, β-End, NT, and SP.
Switching to a Standard Chow Diet at Weaning Improves the Effects of Maternal and Postnatal High-Fat and High-Sucrose Diet on Cardiometabolic Health in Adult Male Mouse Offspring
Authors: Chiñas Merlin Andrea , Gonzalez Kassandra , Mockler Sarah , Perez Yessenia , Jia U-Ter Aondo , Chicco Adam J. , Ullevig Sarah L. , Chung Eunhee
Published: June 2022

Cardiac mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to obesity-associated heart disease. Maternal and postnatal diet plays an important role in cardiac function, yet the impacts of a mismatch between prenatal and postweaning diet on cardiometabolic function are not well understood. We tested the hypothesis that switching to a standard chow diet after weaning would attenuate systemic metabolic disorders and cardiac and mitochondrial dysfunction associated with maternal and postnatal high-fat/high-sucrose (HFHS) diet in mice. Six-month-old male CD1 offspring from dams fed a HFHS diet and weaned to the same HFHS diet (HH) or switched to a standard chow diet (HC) were compared to offspring from dams fed a low-fat/low-sucrose diet and maintained on the same diet (LL). HC did not decrease body weight (BW) but normalized glucose tolerance, plasma cholesterol, LDL, and insulin levels compared to the HH. Systolic function indicated by the percent fractional shortening was not altered by diet. In freshly isolated cardiac mitochondria, maximal oxidative phosphorylation-linked respiratory capacity and coupling efficiency were significantly higher in the HC in the presence of fatty acid substrate compared to LL and HH, with modification of genes associated with metabolism and mitochondrial function. Switching to a standard chow diet at weaning can attenuate the deleterious effects of long-term HFHS in adult male mouse offspring.
The Potential Role of Metabolomics in Drug-Induced Liver Injury (DILI) Assessment
Authors: Moreno-Torres Marta , Quintás Guillermo , Castell José V.
Published: June 2022

Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is one of the most frequent adverse clinical reactions and a relevant cause of morbidity and mortality. Hepatotoxicity is among the major reasons for drug withdrawal during post-market and late development stages, representing a major concern to the pharmaceutical industry. The current biochemical parameters for the detection of DILI are based on enzymes (alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP)) and bilirubin serum levels that are not specific of DILI and therefore there is an increasing interest on novel, specific, DILI biomarkers discovery. Metabolomics has emerged as a tool with a great potential for biomarker discovery, especially in disease diagnosis, and assessment of drug toxicity or efficacy. This review summarizes the multistep approaches in DILI biomarker research and discovery based on metabolomics and the principal outcomes from the research performed in this field. For that purpose, we have reviewed the recent scientific literature from PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, and PubTator using the terms “metabolomics”, “DILI”, and “humans”. Despite the undoubted contribution of metabolomics to our understanding of the underlying mechanisms of DILI and the identification of promising novel metabolite biomarkers, there are still some inconsistencies and limitations that hinder the translation of these research findings into general clinical practice, probably due to the variability of the methods used as well to the different mechanisms elicited by the DILI causing agent.
NMR-Based Metabolomics Identify Metabolic Change in Spleen of Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura Patients
Authors: Wen Shi , Wang Zhenzhao , Feng Jianghua , Yang Yuanyuan , Lin Xianchao , Huang Heguang
Published: June 2022

Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is a common hematological disease and the abnormal platelet destruction in the spleen is a critical pathological mechanism for ITP. However, the metabolomic change in the spleen caused by ITP is still unclear. In the present study, the metabolomic information of 18 ITP and 20 normal spleen samples were detected by using 1H high-resolution magic angle spinning NMR spectroscopy (1H MAS NMR). Compared with normal spleen, the concentrations of acetate, alanine, glutamine, glycerol, isoleucine, lysine, valine, phenylalanine, leucine, and methanol in ITP spleen tissue were elevated and 3-hydroxybutyric acid, ascorbate, asparagine, ethanol, glycogen, low-density lipoprotein, malonate, myo-inositol, glycerophosphocholine, pyroglutamate, and taurine were decreased. Amino acids metabolic pathways, such as branched-chain amino acids pathway, were identified as the main involved pathways based on enrichment analysis. The decrease in taurine level in the spleen was the most obvious metabolic signature involving ITP with high sensitivity and specificity to distinguish the spleen of ITP from the normal (CI: 0.825–0.982). Notably, the level of taurine in the spleen was negatively correlated with the efficacy of splenectomy (r = 0.622, p = 0.006). Collectively, the data from our study revealed previously unknown ITP-related metabolomic changes in the spleen and found a potential diagnostic and efficacy-predictive biomarker for ITP treatment.
Trans- and Multigenerational Maternal Social Isolation Stress Programs the Blood Plasma Metabolome in the F3 Generation
Authors: Heynen Joshua P. , Paxman Eric J. , Sanghavi Prachi , McCreary J. Keiko , Montina Tony , Metz Gerlinde A. S.
Published: June 2022

Metabolic risk factors are among the most common causes of noncommunicable diseases, and stress critically contributes to metabolic risk. In particular, social isolation during pregnancy may represent a salient stressor that affects offspring metabolic health, with potentially adverse consequences for future generations. Here, we used proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) spectroscopy to analyze the blood plasma metabolomes of the third filial (F3) generation of rats born to lineages that experienced either transgenerational or multigenerational maternal social isolation stress. We show that maternal social isolation induces distinct and robust metabolic profiles in the blood plasma of adult F3 offspring, which are characterized by critical switches in energy metabolism, such as upregulated formate and creatine phosphate metabolisms and downregulated glucose metabolism. Both trans- and multigenerational stress altered plasma metabolomic profiles in adult offspring when compared to controls. Social isolation stress increasingly affected pathways involved in energy metabolism and protein biosynthesis, particularly in branched-chain amino acid synthesis, the tricarboxylic acid cycle (lactate, citrate), muscle performance (alanine, creatine phosphate), and immunoregulation (serine, threonine). Levels of creatine phosphate, leucine, and isoleucine were associated with changes in anxiety-like behaviours in open field exploration. The findings reveal the metabolic underpinnings of epigenetically heritable diseases and suggest that even remote maternal social stress may become a risk factor for metabolic diseases, such as diabetes, and adverse mental health outcomes. Metabolomic signatures of transgenerational stress may aid in the risk prediction and early diagnosis of non-communicable diseases in precision medicine approaches.
Efficient Modeling and Simulation of PMUT Arrays in Various Ambients
Authors: Abdalla Omer M. O. , Massimino Gianluca , Savoia Alessandro Stuart , Quaglia Fabio , Corigliano Alberto
Published: June 2022

This paper presents a numerical reduced-order modeling (ROM) approach for complex multi-layered arrays of piezoelectric micromachined ultrasonic transducers (PMUTs). The numerical modeling technique adopted to generate an array of PMUTs consisting of a considerable number of transducers allows for a large reduction in computational cost without reducing accuracy. The modeling idea is based on coupling shell elements applied to the PMUT structural layers with 3D-solid elements applied to the piezoelectric layer. A set of eigenfrequency and frequency domain analyses are presented considering a single ROM of a PMUT performing in different ambients and the performing central frequencies are obtained for every considered scenario. A unique arrangement of 228 PMUTs is presented and tested for its ability to transmit and receive acoustic waves. The operating frequency band of the array and the level of interference and cross-talk among different PMUTs in the near field are estimated. Finally, the results from a preliminary experimental test performed to analyze the acoustic abilities of an 8 × 8 array of PMUTs are presented. A corresponding numerical model is created and the obtained results matched the experimental data, leading to a validation of the modeling technique proposed in this work.
Electro-Sorption of Hydrogen by Platinum, Palladium and Bimetallic Pt-Pd Nanoelectrode Arrays Synthesized by Pulsed Laser Ablation
Authors: Scandurra Antonino , Censabella Maria , Gulino Antonino , Grimaldi Maria Grazia , Ruffino Francesco
Published: June 2022

Sustainable and renewable production of hydrogen by water electrolysers is expected to be one of the most promising methods to satisfy the ever-growing demand for renewable energy production and storage. Hydrogen evolution reaction in alkaline electrolyte is still challenging due to its slow kinetic properties. This study proposes new nanoelectrode arrays for high Faradaic efficiency of the electro-sorption reaction of hydrogen in an alkaline electrolyte. A comparative study of the nanoelectrode arrays, consisting of platinum or palladium or bimetallic nanoparticles (NPs) Pt80Pd20 (wt.%), obtained by nanosecond pulsed laser ablation in aqueous environment, casted onto graphene paper, is proposed. The effects of thin films of perfluoro-sulfonic ionomer on the material morphology, nanoparticles dispersion, and electrochemical performance have been investigated. The NPs-GP systems have been characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy, Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry, and galvanostatic charge-discharge cycles. Faradaic efficiency up to 86.6% and hydrogen storage capacity up to 6 wt.% have been obtained by the Pt-ionomer and Pd/Pt80Pd20 systems, respectively.
Design and Analysis of a PDLC-Based Reconfigurable Hilbert Fractal Antenna for Large and Fine THz Frequency Tuning
Authors: Garu Prabir , Wang Wei-Chih
Published: June 2022

The proposed reconfigurable radiating antenna design is based on the integration of a reconfigurable fractal antenna and electro-optic substrate material. This antenna can be adjusted to achieve either re-configurability or tunability in the desired frequency range for wireless systems. The electromagnetic characteristics of the fractal antenna are manipulated at both the level of fractal geometry, electrical length and dielectric substrate. The designed antenna features multiband responses, in which the geometry and length change create a large frequency shift and the dielectric change using polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) creates fine and/or continuous tuning. The far field and scattering properties of the antenna are analyzed using the Computer Simulation Technology (CST) Microwave Studio Suite. The proposed approach has successfully demonstrated reconfigurable switching for up to four frequency bands between 0.2 and 0.6 THz. The dielectric constant change in the PDLC substrate shows fine and continuous frequency tuning with an 8% maximum frequency shift when operating around 0.54 THz and a high directivity of 7.35 dBi at 0.54 THz and 8.43 dBi at 0.504 THz. The antenna can also realize a peak gain of 4.29 dBi at 0.504 THz in the extraordinary polarization state of PDLC. The designed antenna can be readily integrated in the current communication devices, such as satellites, smart phones, laptops, and other portable electronic devices, due to its compact geometry and IC compatible design. In satellite applications, the proposed antenna can play a significant role in terms of security. The antenna could be extremely useful for satellites that want to keep their information secret; by constantly switching their operating frequency, spy satellites can evade detection and data collection from enemy ears.
Diffraction Efficiency of MEMS Phase Light Modulator, TI-PLM, for Quasi-Continuous and Multi-Point Beam Steering
Authors: Deng Xianyue , Tang Chin-I , Luo Chuan , Takashima Yuzuru
Published: June 2022

The recent development of the Micro Electromechanical System (MEMS) Phase Light Modulator (PLM) enables fast laser beam steering for lidar applications by displaying a Computer-Generated Hologram (CGH) without employing an iterative CGH calculation algorithm. We discuss the application of MEMS PLM (Texas Instruments PLM) for quasi-continuous laser beam steering by deterministically calculated CGHs. The effect on the diffraction efficiency of PLM non-equally spaced phase levels was quantified. We also address the CGH calculation algorithm and an experimental demonstration that steered and scanned the beam into multiple regions of interest points, enabling beam steering for lidar without sequential raster scanning.
Temperature Characteristic Analysis of Electromagnetic Piezoelectric Hybrid Drive Motor
Authors: Li Zheng , Chen Xuetong , Zhao Hui , Wang Jinsong , Du Shenhui , Guo Xiaoqiang , Sun Hexu
Published: June 2022

Temperature rise has always been one of the main researchfocusesof the motor. When the temperature is too high, it will have a serious impact on the stability and reliability of motor performance. Due to the special structure of electromagnetic piezoelectric hybrid drive motor (EPHDM), the loss and temperature distribution of electromagnetic drive part and piezoelectric drive part werestudied. By analyzing the operation principle of the motor, the loss of each part wasresearched. On this basis, the loss of the electromagnetic driving part and piezoelectric driving part werecomputed by using the coupling iterative calculation method. The temperature contour map of the motor wasanalyzed by simulation, and the temperature characteristics of each part of the motor werestudied. Finally, the experimental verification of the prototype, the reliability of the theoretical model, and simulation results wereproved. The results showed that the temperature distribution of the motor is reasonable, the winding temperature is relatively high, and the core temperature and piezoelectric stator temperature are relatively low. The analytical and experimental methods are provided for the further study of heat source optimization.
A Critical Review on the Sensing, Control, and Manipulation of Single Molecules on Optofluidic Devices
Authors: Rahman Mahmudur , Islam Kazi Rafiqul , Islam Md. Rashedul , Islam Md. Jahirul , Kaysir Md. Rejvi , Akter Masuma , Rahman Md. Arifur , Alam S. M. Mahfuz
Published: June 2022

Single-molecule techniques have shifted the paradigm of biological measurements from ensemble measurements to probing individual molecules and propelled a rapid revolution in related fields. Compared to ensemble measurements of biomolecules, single-molecule techniques provide a breadth of information with a high spatial and temporal resolution at the molecular level. Usually, optical and electrical methods are two commonly employed methods for probing single molecules, and some platforms even offer the integration of these two methods such as optofluidics. The recent spark in technological advancement and the tremendous leap in fabrication techniques, microfluidics, and integrated optofluidics are paving the way toward low cost, chip-scale, portable, and point-of-care diagnostic and single-molecule analysis tools. This review provides the fundamentals and overview of commonly employed single-molecule methods including optical methods, electrical methods, force-based methods, combinatorial integrated methods, etc. In most single-molecule experiments, the ability to manipulate and exercise precise control over individual molecules plays a vital role, which sometimes defines the capabilities and limits of the operation. This review discusses different manipulation techniques including sorting and trapping individual particles. An insight into the control of single molecules is provided that mainly discusses the recent development of electrical control over single molecules. Overall, this review is designed to provide the fundamentals and recent advancements in different single-molecule techniques and their applications, with a special focus on the detection, manipulation, and control of single molecules on chip-scale devices.
Facile Manufacture of Oxide-Free Cu Particles Coated with Oleic Acid by Electrical Discharge Machining
Authors: Khilji Irshad Ahamad , Mohd Safee Siti Nadiah Binti , Pathak Sunil , Chilakamarry Chaitanya Reddy , Abdul Sani Amiril Sahab Bin , Reddy Venugopal Jayarama
Published: June 2022

Particle synthesis has seen significant advances in current trends. However, the synthesis of metal particles without oxidation is a challenge for researchers. The current study presents a straightforward, convenient, and convincing approach for manufacturing copper (Cu) particles free of surface oxide. The die-sink Electrical Discharge Machine (EDM) of copper alloys with oleic acid resulted in the formation of Cu particles with diameters between 10 to 20 µm. X-ray diffraction (XRD) was used for particle examination after cleaning and sonication with distilled water. Cu particles with oleic acid coating retained a Cu phase without oxidation after synthesis. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to determine the size and morphology of generated particles. Fourier transforms infrared (FT-IR) analysis revealed the oleic acid-coated Cu surface bonded with an oxygen atom. Also, the agglomeration and change of size involving Cu particles with increasing voltages in the pulse supply in EDM were reported.
CFD Analysis and Life Cycle Assessment of Continuous Synthesis of Magnetite Nanoparticles Using 2D and 3D Micromixers
Authors: Florez Sergio Leonardo , Campaña Ana Lucia , Noguera M. Juliana , Quezada Valentina , Fuentes Olga P. , Cruz Juan C. , Osma Johann F.
Published: June 2022

Magnetite nanoparticles (MNPs) have attracted basic and applied research due to their immense potential to enable applications in fields as varied as drug delivery and bioremediation. Conventional synthesis schemes led to wide particle size distributions and inhomogeneous morphologies and crystalline structures. This has been attributed to the inability to control nucleation and growth processes under the conventional conditions of bulk batch processes. Here, we attempted to address these issues by scaling down the synthesis process aided by microfluidic devices, as they provide highly controlled and stable mixing patterns. Accordingly, we proposed three micromixers with different channel configurations, namely, serpentine, triangular, and a 3D arrangement with abrupt changes in fluid direction. The micromixers were first studied in silico, aided by Comsol Multiphysics® to investigate the obtained mixing patterns, and consequently, their potential for controlled growth and the nucleation processes required to form MNPs of uniform size and crystalline structure. The devices were then manufactured using a low-cost approach based on polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and laser cutting. Testing the micromixers in the synthesis of MNPs revealed homogeneous morphologies and particle size distributions, and the typical crystalline structure reported previously. A life cycle assessment (LCA) analysis for the devices was conducted in comparison with conventional batch co-precipitation synthesis to investigate the potential impacts on water and energy consumption. The obtained results revealed that such consumptions are higher than those of the conventional process. However, they can be reduced by conducting the synthesis with reused micromixers, as new PMMA is not needed for their assembly prior to operation. We are certain that the proposed approach represents an advantageous alternative to co-precipitation synthesis schemes, in terms of continuous production and more homogeneous physicochemical parameters of interest such as size, morphologies, and crystalline structure. Future work should be directed towards improving the sustainability indicators of the micromixers’ manufacturing process.
Deep Q-Learning with Bit-Swapping-Based Linear Feedback Shift Register fostered Built-In Self-Test and Built-In Self-Repair for SRAM
Authors: Ahmed Mohammed Altaf , Alnatheer Suleman
Published: June 2022

Including redundancy is popular and widely used in a fault-tolerant method for memories. Effective fault-tolerant methods are a demand of today’s large-size memories. Recently, system-on-chips (SOCs) have been developed in nanotechnology, with most of the chip area occupied by memories. Generally, memories in SOCs contain various sizes with poor accessibility. Thus, it is not easy to repair these memories with the conventional external equipment test method. For this reason, memory designers commonly use the redundancy method for replacing rows–columns with spare ones mainly to improve the yield of the memories. In this manuscript, the Deep Q-learning (DQL) with Bit-Swapping-based linear feedback shift register (BSLFSR) for Fault Detection (DQL-BSLFSR-FD) is proposed for Static Random Access Memory (SRAM). The proposed Deep Q-learning-based memory built-in self-test (MBIST) is used to check the memory array unit for faults. The faults are inserted into the memory using the Deep Q-learning fault injection process. The test patterns and faults injection are controlled during testing using different test cases. Subsequently, fault memory is repaired after inserting faults in the memory cell using the Bit-Swapping-based linear feedback shift register (BSLFSR) based Built-In Self-Repair (BISR) model. The BSLFSR model performs redundancy analysis that detects faulty cells, utilizing spare rows and columns instead of defective cells. The design and implementation of the proposed BIST and Built-In Self-Repair methods are developed on FPGA, and Verilog’s simulation is conducted. Therefore, the proposed DQL-BSLFSR-FD model simulation has attained 23.5%, 29.5% lower maximum operating frequency (minimum clock period), and 34.9%, 26.7% lower total power consumption than the existing approaches.
Study on Solidification Process and Residual Stress of SiCp/Al Composites in EDM
Authors: Zhang Wenchao , Chang Hao , Liu Yu
Published: June 2022

To study the change of residual stress during heating and solidification of SiCp/Al composites, a one-way FSI (Fluid Structure Interaction) model for the solidification process of the molten material is presented. The model used process parameters to obtain the temperature distribution, liquid and solid-state material transformation, and residual stress. The crack initiated by the thermal stress in the recast layer was investigated, and a mathematical model of crack tip stress was proposed. The results showed a wide range of residual stresses from 44 MPa to 404 MPa. The model is validated using experimental data with three points on the surface layer.
Method for Stress Assessment of Endosymbiotic Algae in Paramecium bursaria as a Model System for Endosymbiosis
Authors: Takahashi Toshiyuki
Published: June 2022

Endosymbiosis between heterotrophic host and microalga often breaks down because of environmental conditions, such as temperature change and exposure to toxic substances. By the time of the apparent breakdown of endosymbiosis, it is often too late for the endosymbiotic system to recover. In this study, I developed a technique for the stress assessment of endosymbiotic algae using Paramecium bursaria as an endosymbiosis model, after treatment with the herbicide paraquat, an endosymbiotic collapse inducer. Microcapillary flow cytometry was employed to evaluate a large number of cells in an approach that is more rapid than microscopy evaluation. In the assay, red fluorescence of the chlorophyll reflected the number of endosymbionts within the host cell, while yellow fluorescence fluctuated in response to the deteriorating viability of the endosymbiont under stress. Hence, the yellow/red fluorescence intensity ratio can be used as an algal stress index independent of the algal number. An optical evaluation revealed that the viability of the endosymbiotic algae within the host cell decreased after treatment with paraquat and that the remaining endosymbionts were exposed to high stress. The devised assay is a potential environmental monitoring method, applicable not only to P. bursaria but also to multicellular symbiotic units, such as corals.
Characterization of Microbial Diversity in Decayed Wood from a Spanish Forest: An Environmental Source of Industrially Relevant Microorganisms
Authors: Velasco-Rodríguez Óscar , Fil Mariana , Heggeset Tonje M. B. , Degnes Kristin F. , Becerro-Recio David , Kolsaková Katarina , Haugen Tone , Jønsson Malene , Toral-Martínez Macarena , García-Estrada Carlos , Sola-Landa Alberto , Josefsen Kjell D. , Sletta Håvard , Barreiro Carlos
Published: June 2022

Rotting wood is inhabited by a large diversity of bacteria, fungi, and insects with complex environmental relationships. The aim of this work was to study the composition of the microbiota (bacteria and fungi) in decaying wood from a northwest Spanish forest as a source of industrially relevant microorganisms. The analyzed forest is situated in a well-defined biogeographic area combining Mediterranean and temperate macrobioclimates. Bacterial diversity, determined by metagenome analyses, was higher than fungal heterogeneity. However, a total of 194 different cultivable bacterial isolates (mainly Bacillaceae, Streptomycetaceae, Paenibacillaceae, and Microbacteriaceae) were obtained, in contrast to 343 fungal strains (mainly Aspergillaceae, Hypocreaceae, and Coniochaetaceae). Isolates traditionally known as secondary metabolite producers, such as Actinobacteria and members of the Penicillium genus, were screened for their antimicrobial activity by the detection of antibiotic biosynthetic clusters and competitive bioassays against fungi involved in wood decay. In addition, the ability of Penicillium isolates to degrade cellulose and release ferulic acid from wood was also examined. These results present decaying wood as an ecologically rich niche and a promising source of biotechnologically interesting microorganisms.
mRNA BNT162b Vaccine Elicited Higher Antibody and CD4+ T-Cell Responses than Patients with Mild COVID-19
Authors: Zavaglio Federica , Cassaniti Irene , Sammartino Josè Camilla , Tonello Stelvio , Sainaghi Pier Paolo , Novelli Viola , Meloni Federica , Lilleri Daniele , Baldanti Fausto
Published: June 2022

We compared the development and persistence of antibody and T-cell responses elicited by the mRNA BNT162b2 vaccine or SARS-CoV-2 infection. We analysed 37 post-COVID-19 patients (15 with pneumonia and 22 with mild symptoms) and 20 vaccinated subjects. Anti-Spike IgG and neutralising antibodies were higher in vaccinated subjects and in patients with pneumonia than in patients with mild COVID-19, and persisted at higher levels in patients with pneumonia while declining in vaccinated subjects. However, the booster dose restored the initial antibody levels. The proliferative CD4+ T-cell response was similar in vaccinated subjects and patients with pneumonia, but was lower in mild COVID-19 patients and persisted in both vaccinated subjects and post-COVID patients. Instead, the proliferative CD8+ T-cell response was lower in vaccinated subjects than in patients with pneumonia, decreased six months after vaccination, and was not restored after the booster dose. The cytokine profile was mainly TH1 in both vaccinated subjects and post-COVID-19 patients. The mRNA BNT162b2 vaccine elicited higher levels of antibody and CD4+ T-cell responses than those observed in mild COVID-19 patients. While the antibody response declined after six months and required a booster dose to be restored at the initial levels, the proliferative CD4+ T-cell response persisted over time.
Mating Interactions between Schistosoma bovis and S. mansoni and Compatibility of Their F1 Progeny with Biomphalaria glabrata and Bulinus truncatus
Authors: Onyekwere Amos Mathias , De Elias-Escribano Alejandra , Kincaid-Smith Julien , Dametto Sarah , Allienne Jean-François , Rognon Anne , Bargues Maria Dolores , Boissier Jérôme
Published: June 2022

Contrary to the majority of other Trematoda, Schistosoma species are gonochoric. Consequently, in endemic areas where several schistosome species overlap and can co-infect the same definitive host, there may be frequent opportunities for interspecific pairing. Our experimental study provides novel insight on the pairing behavior between Schistosoma bovis and S. mansoni in mixed infections in mice. We used six mate choice experiments to assess mating interactions between the two schistosome species. We show that mating between the two Schistosoma species is not random and that S. mansoni exhibits greater mate recognition compared to S. bovis. We also performed reciprocal crosses (male S. mansoni × female S. bovis) and (female S. mansoni × male S. bovis) that produce active swimming miracidia. These miracidia were genotyped by ITS2 sequencing and proposed for mollusc infection. Molecular analyses show that all the miracidia are parthenogenetically produced (i.e., their harbor the mother ITS2 genotype) and as a consequence can only infect the mollusc of the maternal species. Offspring produced by male S. mansoni × female S. bovis pairing can only infect Bulinus truncatus whereas offspring produced by female S. mansoni × male S. bovis can only infect Biomphalaria glabrata snails. Evolutionary and epidemiological consequences are discussed.
The Hidden Magmatic Chamber from the Ponte Nova Mafic–Ultramafic Alkaline Massif, SE Brazil: Clues from Clinopyroxene and Olivine Antecrysts
Authors: Azzone Rogério Guitarrari , Cetina Tarazona Lina Maria , Ambrosio Mariana Robertti , Guarino Vincenza , Chmyz Luanna , Lima Nicholas Machado , Ruberti Excelso
Published: June 2022

Clinopyroxene and olivine primocrysts in the intrusions of the Ponte Nova mafic–ultramafic alkaline massif (SE Brazil) present several textures and zoning that indicate open-system processes. Important compositional differences were found in the clinopyroxene. Diopside relict cores (mostly partially corroded) present higher Mg, Cr and Ni and lower Ti, Na, Al, REE and Sr than Ti-augite mantling and rims. Subordinately, two types of olivine crystals were recognized, one related to very zoned crystals with high Mg (Fo up to 86 mol.%) and Ni cores (mostly with corroded rims), and other almost without clear zonation and with lower Mg contents. Relict cores of high-Mg clinopyroxene and olivine crystals are representative of antecrysts formed in deeper chamber environments. Temperature and pressure estimates based on clinopyroxene-liquid geothermobarometers indicate crystallization of the antecrysts at ~1171 ± 10 °C and ~5.7 ± 0.3 kbar, pointing to a deeper hidden magmatic chamber, whereas mantling and rim compositions indicate a shallow chamber environment. Clinopyroxenes of this hidden chamber have progressive enrichments of incompatible elements with the Mg# decrement and inflection points in Sr and REE due to the starting of co-precipitation of apatite. The evolution trend of clinopyroxene antecrysts indicates that the main intrusions in the Ponte Nova shallow chamber were fed by a single deeper hidden chamber mainly controlled by typical fractional crystallization processes. These antecrysts indicate the presence of a complex plumbing system, which is also supported by similar antecrysts found in the lamprophyre and alkali basalt dikes of this region. The preferred petrological model for the Ponte Nova massif could be summarized as repeated influxes of antecryst-laden basanite magmas that deposited most of their suspended crystals on the floor of the upper-crust magma chamber.
Verification and Application of Sequence Stratigraphy to Reservoir Characterization of Horn River Basin, Canada
Authors: Woo Juhwan , Choi Jiyoung , Yoon Seok Hoon , Rhee Chul Woo
Published: June 2022

Shale reservoirs, the most important unconventional resource, are difficult to characterize. Shale formations require detailed interpretation of geological, petrophysical, and geochemical analyses, and an integration of these disciplines. In terms of geological interpretation, the commonly used sequence stratigraphy analysis includes a lithofacies analysis. The application of sequence stratigraphy to shales facilitates the ability to relate between lithofacies and mineral composition, petrophysical parameters, and kerogen contents, which are affected by depositional setting. The classification of lithofacies is indispensable for reservoir quality prediction. In this study, porosity, permeability, and TOC content largely depend on lithofacies, and their correlation coefficient is relatively high. The sequence stratigraphic interpretation shows that organic carbon content usually increases within the maximum flooding surfaces and decreases stepwise. However, the relationship between total organic carbon contents and systems tract is less direct and redox dependent.
Experimental Investigation of Visible-Light and X-ray Emissions during Rock and Mineral Fracture: Role of Electrons Traveling between Fracture Surfaces
Authors: Kadono Toshihiko , Ogawa Kazunori , Shirai Kei , Arakawa Masahiko , Kurosawa Kosuke , Okamoto Takaya , Matsui Takafumi , Hasegawa Sunao , Suzuki Ayako I. , Kobayashi Hideyuki
Published: June 2022

Radiation phenomena are usually observed during fracture of quartz-bearing rocks. Since quartz is a piezoelectric material, the associated electrical processes such as the electrification of fracture surface and the flight of electrons between fracture surfaces should be important for radiation during fractures. In this article, supposing that travelling electrons between crack surfaces cause the radiation, we experimentally investigate X-ray emission in a vacuum and visible-light emission in the atmosphere during rock and mineral fracture and verify the consistency of both emissions. The number of electrons in flight between surfaces during fracture that result in X-ray is estimated and the comparison with the number of photons in visible light suggests that one electron repeatedly collides with N2 molecules. The estimated number of collisions resulting in a visible-light emission is slightly less than the expected upper limit. This is reasonable because the collision would cause the light emission not always in the wavelengths of visible light. Moreover, the number of electrons resulting in X-rays is comparable with the number of electrons resulting in the emission of radio waves during fracture obtained in previous studies. Thus, we conclude that the radiations during fracture can be attributed to the flight of electrons between fracture surfaces. Finally, we evaluate the feasibility of observing the X-ray emission in planetary exploration and the radio waves and the visible light in natural earthquakes and find that these radiations are observable.
CO2-Enhanced Oil Recovery Mechanism in Canadian Bakken Shale
Authors: Bizhani Majid , Ardakani Omid Haeri , Hawthorne Steven B. , Cesar Jaime , Kurz Bethany , Percival Jeanne B.
Published: June 2022

The recovery factor in unconventional reservoirs is typically 5–10%, with extensive hydraulic fracturing and infill drilling to maintain the production rate. Concurrently, the rush towards decarbonization is opening up new possibilities for CO2 utilization, enhanced oil recovery (EOR) being one example. CO2-EOR in unconventional reservoirs presents an opportunity for both financial gain through improved recovery factors, as well as reducing the carbon footprint of the produced oil. In this work, we examine the CO2-EOR potential in 4 organic-rich shale samples from the Canadian Bakken Formation. A number of characterization tests alongside CO2 extraction experiments were performed to gain insight into the controlling factors of CO2-EOR in these ultra-tight formations. The results show CO2 can penetrate the tight rock matrix and recover a substantial amount of hydrocarbon. Concentration gradient driven diffusion is the dominant form of recovery.
Parameter Optimization and Fragmentation Prediction of Fan-Shaped Deep Hole Blasting in Sanxin Gold and Copper Mine
Authors: Ke Bo , Pan Ruohan , Zhang Jian , Wang Wei , Hu Yong , Lei Gao , Chi Xiuwen , Ren Gaofeng , You Yuhao
Published: June 2022

For San-Xin gold and copper mine, deep blasting large block rate is high resulting in difficulty in transporting the ore out; secondary blasting not only increases blasting costs but is more likely to cause the top and bottom plate of the underground to become loose causing safety hazards. Based on the research background of Sanxin gold and copper mine, deep hole blasting parameters were determined by single-hole, variable-hole pitch, and oblique hole blasting tests, further using the inversion method to determine the optimal deep hole blasting parameters. Meanwhile, the PSO-BP neural network method was used to predict the block rate in deep hole blasting. The results of the study showed that the optimal minimum resistance line was 1.24–1.44 m, which was lower than 1.6–1.8 m in the original blasting design, which was one of the reasons for the higher blasting block rate. In addition, the PSO-BP deep hole blasting fragmentation prediction model predicts the block rate of the optimized blasting parameters and predicted a block rate of 6.83% after the optimization of hole network parameters. Its prediction accuracy is high, and the blasting parameter optimization can effectively reduce the block rate. It can reasonably reduce the rate of large pieces produced by blasting, improve blasting efficiency, and save blasting costs for enterprises. The result has wide applicability and can provide solutions for underground mines that also have problems with blasting large block rate.
Discovery of Novel Coumarin Derivatives as Potential Dual Inhibitors against α-Glucosidase and α-Amylase for the Management of Post-Prandial Hyperglycemia via Molecular Modelling Approaches
Authors: Patil Shashank M. , Martiz Reshma Mary , Satish A. M. , Shbeer Abdullah M. , Ageel Mohammed , Al-Ghorbani Mohammed , Ranganatha Lakshmi , Parameswaran Saravanan , Ramu Ramith
Published: June 2022

Coumarin derivatives are proven for their therapeutic uses in several human diseases and disorders such as inflammation, neurodegenerative disorders, cancer, fertility, and microbial infections. Coumarin derivatives and coumarin-based scaffolds gained renewed attention for treating diabetes mellitus. The current decade witnessed the inhibiting potential of coumarin derivatives and coumarin-based scaffolds against α-glucosidase and α-amylase for the management of postprandial hyperglycemia. Hyperglycemia is a condition where an excessive amount of glucose circulates in the bloodstream. It occurs when the body lacks enough insulin or is unable to correctly utilize it. With open-source and free in silico tools, we have investigated novel 80 coumarin derivatives for their inhibitory potential against α-glucosidase and α-amylase and identified a coumarin derivative, CD-59, as a potential dual inhibitor. The ligand-based 3D pharmacophore detection and search is utilized to discover diverse coumarin-like compounds and new chemical scaffolds for the dual inhibition of α-glucosidase and α-amylase. In this regard, four novel coumarin-like compounds from the ZINC database have been discovered as the potential dual inhibitors of α-glucosidase and α-amylase (ZINC02789441 and ZINC40949448 with scaffold thiophenyl chromene carboxamide, ZINC13496808 with triazino indol thio phenylacetamide, and ZINC09781623 with chromenyl thiazole). To summarize, we propose that a coumarin derivative, CD-59, and ZINC02789441 from the ZINC database will serve as potential lead molecules with dual inhibition activity against α-glucosidase and α-amylase, thereby discovering new drugs for the effective management of postprandial hyperglycemia. From the reported scaffold, the synthesis of several novel compounds can also be performed, which can be used for drug discovery.
Evaluation of the Effect of Elite Jojoba Lines on the Chemical Properties of their Seed Oil
Authors: Awad Nahla A. , Eliraq Mohamed , El-Bassel Emad H. , Ismail Ahmed S. M. , Abd El-Aziz Yasser S. G. , Gawish Mohamed S. , Zewail Reda M. Y. , Sami Rokayya , Khojah Ebtihal , Hilary Uguru , Al-Moalem Maalem H. , Sayed-Ahmed Khaled
Published: June 2022

Jojoba oil (JO) extracted from seeds has outstanding properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial activities, and can be stored forlong periodsof time. The unique properties of jojoba oil depend on its chemical composition; therefore, the effect of the jojoba genotype on the chemical properties and active components of the seed oil was evaluated in this study. Oil samples were collected from 15 elite Egyptian jojoba lines. The chemical composition, such as moisture, crude fiber, crude oil, ash, and crude protein of elite lines’ seeds was determined to investigate the variation among them based on the jojoba genotype. In addition, the iodine value was obtained to measure the degree of jojoba oil unsaturation, whereas the peroxide number was determined as an indicator of the damage level in jojoba oil. Fatty acid composition was studied to compare elite jojoba lines. Fatty acid profiles varied significantly depending on the jojoba genotype. Gadoleic acid exhibited the highest percentage value (67.85–75.50%) in the extracted jojoba oil, followed by erucic acid (12.60–14.81%) and oleic acid (7.86–10.99%). The iodine value, peroxide number, and fatty acid composition of the tested elite jojoba lines were compared withthose reported by the International Jojoba Export Council (IJEC). The results showed that the chemical properties of jojoba oils varied significantly, depending on the jojoba genotype.