bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Male-Type and Prototypal Depression Trajectories for Men Experiencing Mental Health Problems
Authors: Rice Simon M. , Kealy David , Seidler Zac E. , Oliffe John L. , Levant Ronald F. , Ogrodniczuk John S.
Published: October 2020

Growing interest in gender-sensitive assessment of depression in men has seen the development of male-specific screening tools. These measures are yet to be subject to longitudinal latent modelling, which limits evidence about the ability of these tools to detect change, especially relative to established screening scales. In this study, three waves of data were collected from 234 men (38.35 years, SD = 14.09) including 3- and 6-month follow-up. Analyses focused on baseline differences and symptom trajectories for the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ; prototypic symptoms) and the Male Depression Risk Scale (MDRS; male-type symptoms). At baseline, men not accessing treatment reported higher MDRS scores relative to treatment-engaged men. There was no group difference for the PHQ. Internal consistency (α, ω) coefficients indicated comparable reliability for both measures across the three waves. Multidomain latent growth modelling, including current treatment engagement as a covariate, reported good model fit (CFI = 0.964, TLI = 0.986, RMSEA = 0.081, SRMR = 0.033) with differential findings for the PHQ and MDRS. Consistent with the baseline between-group analysis, current treatment effects were observed for the MDRS, but not the PHQ. Trajectory modelling for the MDRS indicated that greater severity resulted in slower improvement by 6 months. In contrast, there was no difference in the PHQ rate of change between baseline and 6 months. Findings support the psychometric utility of the MDRS as a male-specific symptom domain measure sensitive to both longitudinal change and potential treatment effects for symptomatic men, in ways not discernible by the PHQ. The MDRS may be a useful adjunctive screening tool for assessing men’s depression.
Maternal Socioeconomic Factors and Racial/Ethnic Differences in Neonatal Anthropometry
Authors: Lambert Calvin , Gleason Jessica L. , Pugh Sarah J. , Liu Aiyi , Bever Alaina , Grobman William A. , Newman Roger B. , Wing Deborah , Gerlanc Nicole M. , Tekola-Ayele Fasil , Grantz Katherine L.
Published: October 2020

Disparities in birthweight by maternal race/ethnicity are commonly observed. It is unclear to what extent these disparities are correlates of individual socioeconomic factors. In a prospective cohort of 1645 low-risk singleton pregnancies included in the NICHD Fetal Growth Study (2009–2013), neonatal anthropometry was measured by trained personnel using a standard protocol. Socioeconomic characteristics included employment status, marital status, health insurance, annual income, and education. Separate adjusted generalized linear models were fit to both test the effect of race/ethnicity and the interaction of race/ethnicity and socioeconomic characteristics on neonatal anthropometry. Mean infant birthweight, length, head circumference, and abdominal circumference all differed by race/ethnicity (p < 0.001). We observed no statistically significant interactions between race/ethnicity and full-time employment/student status, marital status, insurance, or education in association with birthweight, neonatal exam weight, length, or head or abdominal circumference at examination. The interaction between income and race/ethnicity was significant only for abdominal circumference (p = 0.027), with no other significant interactions for other growth parameters, suggesting that racial/ethnic differences in neonatal anthropometry did not vary by individual socioeconomic factors in low-risk women. Our results do not preclude structural factors, such as lifetime exposure to poverty, as an explanation for racial/ethnic disparities.
Attitudes of Mainstream and Special-Education Teachers toward Intellectual Disability in Italy:
The Relevance of Being Teachers
Authors: Arcangeli Laura , Bacherini Alice , Gaggioli Cristina , Sannipoli Moira , Balboni Giulia
Published: October 2020

The attitudes of teachers toward intellectual disability (ID) contribute to an effective school inclusion of students with ID, thereby enhancing their quality of life. The present study was aimed at investigating the attitude differences toward ID of mainstream and special-education teachers in Italy and the general and specific teachers’ characteristics most related to these attitudes. An online version of the Attitudes toward Intellectual Disability (ATTID) questionnaire was filled by 307 mainstream teachers and 237 special-education teachers. The findings show that special-education teachers held more positive attitudes. Specific ATTID dimensions were positively affected for both types of teachers by previous training in special education/ID, perceived support, and promotion of positive attitudes toward ID, in addition to the quality of relationships with individuals with ID, while they were positively affected for special-education teachers by perceived efficacy of ID knowledge. No or very limited effects were observed for previous experience in teaching students with typical development or ID (even with severe/profound ID). Fostering resources to provide teachers with high-quality training, support, and resources and strategies to promote positive attitudes toward ID seems a relevant approach leading to favorable attitudes, thereby improving the quality of life of students with ID.
A Systematic Review of Indicators for Evaluating the Effectiveness of Digital Public Services
Authors: Pedrosa Glauco Vitor , Kosloski Ricardo A. D. , Menezes Vitor G. de , Iwama Gabriela Y. , Silva Wander C. M. P. da , Figueiredo Rejane M. da C.
Published: October 2020

Effectiveness is a key feature of good governance, as the public sector must make the best use of resources to comply with the needs of the population. Several indicators can be analyzed to evaluate the effectiveness of a service. This study analyzes theoretical references and presents a systematic research of indicators to assess the effectiveness of digital public services in the perspective of the user. First, a literature review was carried out to identify the most common indicators employed to evaluate effectiveness in the public sector; then, the perception of academics and professionals regarding digital government was assessed to analyze the relevance of these indicators. As a result, two groups of indicators were found: technical factors based on service quality and usefulness of the service. This work contributes to enrich the discussion on how to create an effective model to evaluate the effectiveness of public services to guarantee quality standards and comply with the expectations of users.
Decision-Making Process Regarding the Use of Mobile Phones in Romania Taking into Consideration Sustainability and Circular Economy
Authors: Onete Cristian Bogdan , Chița Sandra Diana , Vargas Vanesa Madalina , Budz Sonia
Published: October 2020

Nowadays, the use of smartphones has become essential for daily activities that have either a personal or professional purpose. A large number of resources is necessary for both the production and the use of these devices, which means that solutions in terms of sustainability are needed. The purpose of this research is to highlight the concept of sustainability when talking about smartphones, as well to underline the possibilities that exist for the consumers. This study examines the habits of young consumers in Romania, the reasons behind a mobile phone replacement, and the factors that influence the purchase decision. The methodology section follows quantitative and qualitative market research. An analysis was performed in order to have a deep understanding of trends in terms of mobile phone ownership and preferred brands. This study also provides a general view on the neglectfulness of the young population of Romania regarding the dangers to which the environment is exposed because of the purchasing habits that go against sustainability. For accomplishing this purpose, important results have been discovered through the analysis of the data obtained from self-administered questionnaires and interviews. The results show that people are usually using only one mobile phone at a time and they change it once every two years for sustainability and financial reasons. The same applies when it comes to choosing a certain brand. The reasons behind the purchase of a new phone and the decisions regarding an old one are based on healthy principles of the circular economy and sustainability. The preferences in terms of technology and design, and the decision process are correlated with incomes.
Investigating Daylight in the Apartment Buildings in Melbourne, Australia
Authors: Abidi Sehar , Rajagopalan Priyadarsini
Published: October 2020

Daylighting improves users’ experience in visual comfort, aesthetics, behaviour and perception of space and plays an important part in enhancing the health and wellbeing of occupants inside a dwelling. However, daylighting design is challenging for high rise living since configuration of multiple apartments together often results in deep plans and wrongly oriented apartments with poor daylighting. Melbourne considered as the most liveable city in the world has witnessed a boom in high rise apartments in recent years, where bedrooms were designed without windows or with one small opening. Previous studies indicated that one out of two apartments in Melbourne’s central business district (CBD) failed to provide daylighting in the bedrooms. This has led to amendments in planning policy with the aim of providing access to daylight in all habitable rooms. This paper investigates the daylighting conditions in apartment buildings using field measurement and daylight simulations. Daylight levels in 12 apartment units in Melbourne CBD were measured. Additionally, daylight simulations were conducted to identify ways for optimizing light levels in standard layouts. The field measurements showed that daylighting levels were insufficient in one third the apartments due to the presence of deep floor plates and external obstructions. The results from the daylight simulations showed that window to floor area ratio (WFR) of approximately 30% is required for achieving acceptable daylighting levels in bedrooms that have south orientation.
Management of Sarcoidosis, a Selection of Topical Items Updating
Authors: Valeyre Dominique , Bernaudin Jean-François
Published: October 2020

First of all, we would like to thank all the authors for their contribution and the editorial staff who enabled the achievement of this “Management of Sarcoidosis: Challenges and Solutions” Special Issue [...]
Conversion of Germ Cells to Somatic Cell Types in C. elegans
Authors: ul Fatima Nida , Tursun Baris
Published: October 2020

The potential of a cell to produce all types of differentiated cells in an organism is termed totipotency. Totipotency is an essential property of germ cells, which constitute the germline and pass on the parental genetic material to the progeny. The potential of germ cells to give rise to a whole organism has been the subject of intense research for decades and remains important in order to better understand the molecular mechanisms underlying totipotency. A better understanding of the principles of totipotency in germ cells could also help to generate this potential in somatic cell lineages. Strategies such as transcription factor-mediated reprogramming of differentiated cells to stem cell-like states could benefit from this knowledge. Ensuring pluripotency or even totipotency of reprogrammed stem cells are critical improvements for future regenerative medicine applications. The C. elegans germline provides a unique possibility to study molecular mechanisms that maintain totipotency and the germ cell fate with its unique property of giving rise to meiotic cells Studies that focused on these aspects led to the identification of prominent chromatin-repressing factors such as the C. elegans members of the Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 (PRC2). In this review, we summarize different factors that were recently identified, which use molecular mechanisms such as control of protein translation or chromatin repression to ensure maintenance of totipotency and the germline fate. Additionally, we focus on recently identified factors involved in preventing transcription-factor-mediated conversion of germ cells to somatic lineages. These so-called reprogramming barriers have been shown in some instances to be conserved with regard to their function as a cell fate safeguarding factor in mammals. Overall, continued studies assessing the different aspects of molecular pathways involved in maintaining the germ cell fate in C. elegans may provide more insight into cell fate safeguarding mechanisms also in other species.
Landscape Potential and Light Pollution as Key Factors for Astrotourism Development: A Case Study of a Slovak Upland Region
Authors: Kanianska Radoslava , Škvareninová Jana , Kaniansky Stanislav
Published: October 2020

Astrotourism is considered to be a modern form of ecotourism. The main resource for astrotourism is a high-quality night sky, but this is very sensitive to natural as well as anthropogenic factors; for example, land utilization and expansion of urban areas often cause the negative effect of light pollution. The aim of the study is to perform a lighting survey by night sky brightness (NSB) measurements using the sky quality meter (SQM-L) at 20 study sites of the Slovenské stredohorie Upland region (Slovakia) and to assess the region’s potential for astrotourism development (PAD) using a multicriteria analysis. The NSB values ranged from 19.90 (city Žiar nad Hronom at Žiarska kotlina Basin) to 21.54 mag/arcsec2 (recreation area Poľana at Poľana Mountains). At 14 out of 20 study sites, the NSB values even reached 21.2 mag/arcsec2, as recommended by the International Dark-Sky Association for dark-sky parks. Four study sites were categorized as sites with medium PAD, and sixteen with low PAD. No study site reached a high or very high PAD. The best conditions for astrotourism development are fulfilled mainly by the Poľana Mountains geographical unit. The findings can be used for sustainable astrotourism development, land management, and planning to ensure socioeconomic development, together with nature and dark-sky conservation.
Informing Protected Area Decision Making through Academic-Practitioner Collaborations
Authors: Murray Grant , Randall Carleigh , Rollins Rick
Published: October 2020

This study examined knowledge mobilization and collaboration practices of practitioners in a Canadian provincial park agency, BC Parks. Data was collected through four focus groups, an on line survey (N = 125), and a follow up workshop. Results showed that the most important information sources used by the agency were “internal” (e.g., policy and management guidelines), while “external sources” such as academic researchers or journals were rated lower. However, those who collaborated with outside groups, including academics, and those working in a science capacity within the agency, rated external information sources more positively. Barriers and enabling conditions for effective knowledge mobilization were identified.
3-Hydroxy-2-iodophenyl-(4-methylbenzenesulfonate)
Authors: Pan Feng , Guo Yi , Shen Jinying , Pan Xiaofeng , Hu Binbin , Zheng Weixin , Maddaluno Jacques , Durandetti Muriel
Published: October 2020

3-Hydroxy-2-iodophenyl-(4-methylbenzenesulfonate) was synthesized via a three-step procedure, starting from commercially available resorcinol, with an overall yield of 65%. The structures of the products were determined by 1H and 13C NMR, HRMS and IR.
Dilatometric and Microstructural Study of Martensite Tempering in 4% Mn Steel
Authors: Grajcar Adam , Morawiec Mateusz , Jimenez Jose Antonio , Garcia-Mateo Carlos
Published: October 2020

This paper presents the results of martensite tempering resistance in 4% Mn steel. The material was quenched and tempered at 350 °C for 15, 30, and 60 min. The analysis of the quenching and tempering was carried out using dilatometric and microstructural approaches. The phase composition was assessed using X-ray diffraction. The Ms temperature and tempering progress were simulated using JMatPro software. The dilatometric analysis revealed a small decrease in the relative change in length (RCL) during tempering. This decrease was connected to the precipitation kinetics of cementite within the martensite laths. The microstructure investigation using a scanning electron microscope showed a very small amount of carbides, even for the longest tempering time. This showed the high tempering resistance of the martensite in medium-Mn steels. The hardness results showed an insignificant decrease in the hardness depending on the tempering time, which confirmed the high tempering resistance of martensite.
The Microstructure, Thermal, and Mechanical Properties of Sn-3.0Ag-0.5Cu-xSb High-Temperature Lead-Free Solder
Authors: Li Chaojun , Yan Yanfu , Gao Tingting , Xu Guodong
Published: October 2020

To obtain Sn-3.0Ag-0.5Cu-xSb (x = 0, 25, 28, and 31) high-temperature lead-free solder antimony was added to Sn-3.0Ag-0.5Cu solder. The microstructure, thermal properties, and mechanical behavior of the solder alloy prepared were studied by using JSM-5610LV scanning electron microscope, Germany STA409PC differential scanning calorimeter, AG-I250KN universal tensile testing machine, and other methods. The SEM-EDS results showed that after adding Sb, SnSb phase was formed in the β-Sn matrix phase. The newly formed SnSb phase and the existing Sb in the solder alloy can inhibit the generation of IMC and refine the IMC layer. The addition of Sb significantly increased the melting temperature of the solder alloy. Among them, the thermal performance of Sn-3.0Ag-0.5Cu-25Sb is the best. The melting temperature of Sn-3.0Ag-0.5Cu-25Sb is 332.91 °C and the solid–liquid line range of Sn-3.0Ag-0.5Cu-25Sb solder alloy is 313.28–342.02 °C. Its pasty range is 28.74 °C, lower than 30 °C, which is beneficial for soldering. The test results of the mechanical behavior of Sn-3.0Ag-0.5Cu-xSb solder alloy show that with the increase of Sb addition, the ultimate tensile strength of the solder alloy also increases. However, the change of the elongation of the solder alloy is the opposite. The ultimate tensile strength of the solder alloy increased from 29.45 MPa of Sn-3.0Ag-0.5Cu solder to 70.81 MPa of Sn-3.0Ag-0.5Cu-31Sb solder. The reason for the increase in the strength of the solder alloy is the reduction of the thickness of IMC and the solid solution hardening effect of Sb.
High and Low Temperature Performance and Fatigue Properties of Silica Fume/SBS Compound Modified Asphalt
Authors: Zheng Xuewen , Xu Wenyuan , Feng Huimin , Cao Kai
Published: October 2020

In order to study the high and low temperature properties, and fatigue properties, of silica fume/SBS (Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene) compound modified asphalt (SFSCMA), dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) and bending beam rheometer (BBR) are used to study matrix asphalt (MA), silica fume modified asphalt (SFMA) (silica fume (SF) 6%), SBS modified asphalt (SBSMA) (mass ratio of SBS to Matrix asphalt 4%), and silica fume/SBS compound modified asphalt, and the high temperature rheological properties of silica fume/SBS compound modified asphalt with different silica fume additions are also studied. The modification mechanism of SFSCMA was studied by scanning electron microscope (SEM). The investigation results turn out: along with the increase in the content of SF, the high temperature performance of SFSCMA is improved significantly. When the content of SF is 6%, the high temperature performance is the best. When the content of SF is more than 6%, the high temperature property of SFSCMA is lower than that of SBSMA. It is suggested to choose 6% as the content of SF. Compared with MA, SFMA, and SBSMA, SFSCMA has excellent high temperature performance; compared with MA and SFMA, the low temperature performance of SFSCMA is improved, but it is worse than that of SBSMA. Moreover, when the temperature is lower than −30 °C, its low temperature performance is close to that of MA, or even worse than that of MA. After the compound modification of SF and SBSMA, the fatigue properties of the asphalt are improved, and the fatigue performance of SFSCMA is the best among the four kinds of asphalt. There is a cross-linking force in the network structure of SFSCMA, which restrains the flow of the whole system, so that the stability of the compound modified asphalt is significantly improved, which is favorable to the high temperature performance and fatigue resistance of the compound modified asphalt. However, due to its low mobility, it has a negative impact on the low temperature performance of the compound modified asphalt. In addition, according to previous studies, compared with diatomite, it is proven that SF can reach the same level as diatomite in improving the high temperature performance and fatigue performance of asphalt. Therefore, SF can be used as a good choice of asphalt modifier and can achieve the purpose of waste recycling and environmental protection.
Common-Ground-Type Single-Source High Step-Up Cascaded Multilevel Inverter for Transformerless PV Applications
Authors: Jahan Hossein Khoun , Kurdkandi Naser Vosoughi , Abapour Mehdi , Zare Kazem , Hosseini Seyed Hossein , Yang Yongheng , Blaabjerg Frede
Published: October 2020

The cascaded multilevel inverter (CMI) is one type of common inverter in industrial applications. This type of inverter can be synthesized either as a symmetric configuration with several identical H-bridge (HB) cells or as an asymmetric configuration with non-identical HB cells. In photovoltaic (PV) applications with the CMI, the PV modules can be used to replace the isolated dc sources; however, this brings inter-module leakage currents. To tackle the issue, the single-source CMI is preferred. Furthermore, in a grid-tied PV system, the main constraint is the capacitive leakage current. This problem can be addressed by providing a common ground, which is shared by PV modules and the ac grid. This paper thus proposes a topology that fulfills the mentioned requirements and thus, CMI is a promising inverter with wide-ranging industrial uses, such as PV applications. The proposed CMI topology also features high boosting capability, fault current limiting, and a transformerless configuration. To demonstrate the capabilities of this CMI, simulations and experimental results are provided.
A Constructive Scheme for a Common Coupled Fixed Point Problems in Hilbert Space
Authors: Kim Kyung Soo
Published: October 2020

Coupled fixed points have become the focus of interest in recent times, especially for their potential applications. Very recently, the idea of common coupled fixed point iterations has been introduced for approximating common coupled fixed points in linear spaces. Here, a coupled Mann pair iterative scheme is defined and is applied to the problem of finding common coupled fixed points of certain mappings. The discussion of the paper is in the context of Hilbert spaces.
A Study on the Effect of Ultrafine SiC Additions on Corrosion and Wear Performance of Alumina-Silicon Carbide Composite Material Produced by SPS Sintering
Authors: Mogale Ntebogeng F. , Matizamhuka Wallace R.
Published: October 2020

Alumina-silicon carbide (Al2O3–SiC) composites of varying compositions (15, 20, 25 and 30 vol.%)–SiC were produced by the ball milling of Al2O3 and SiC powders, followed by spark plasma sintering. The samples were sintered at a temperature and pressure of 1600 °C and 50 MPa, respectively, thermally etched at 1400 °C and mechanically fractured by hammer impact. The effect of SiC additions to monolithic Al2O3 on the densification response, microstructural and phase evolutions, and fracture morphologies were evaluated. The wear performance of the composites using a ball-on-sample configuration was evaluated and compared to that of monolithic Al2O3. In addition, the corrosion performance of the composites in a 3.5% NaCl solution was examined using open circuit potential and potentiodynamic polarization assessments. SiC additions to monolithic Al2O3 delayed densification due to the powder agglomeration resulting from the powder processing. SiC particles were observed to be located inside Al2O3 grains and some at grain boundaries. Intergranular and transgranular fracture modes were observed on the fractured composite surfaces. The study has shown that the Al2O3–SiC composite is a promising material for improved wear resistance with SiC content increments higher than 15 vol.%. Moreover, the increase in SiC content displayed no improvement in corrosion performance.
Optimization of the Resistance Spot Welding Process of 22MnB5-Galvannealed Steel Using Response Surface Methodology and Global Criterion Method Based on Principal Components Analysis
Authors: Ribeiro Robson , Romão Estevão Luiz , Luz Eduardo , Gomes José Henrique , Costa Sebastião
Published: October 2020

The 22MnB5-galvannealed steel is extensively used in the hot stamping process to produce car anti-collision structure parts. Furthermore, the resistance spot welding (RSW) is an important process in the automobile industry, especially in body construction, and the 22MnB5-galvannealed steels are a big challenge for the joining methods because their microstructure and mechanical properties are different from those of the conventional steels. In view of this, the present paper aims to optimize the parameters of the RSW process of the 22MnB5-galvannealed steel. Initially, the goal was to remove the galvannealed coating and in the next stage, the following responses were maximized: the nugget width, the nugget cross-sectional area, the penetration, the strength, the joint efficiency, and the energy absorption, whereas the indentation, heat affected zone and separation were used as constraints. The process parameters selected were the effective welding time, the effective welding current, the quenching time, and the upslope time. Response surface methodology (RSM) was applied jointly with the global criterion method based on principal components. The results of the multiobjective optimization are close to the individual targets for each response, highlighting the importance of considering the correlation structure presented in the responses.
Effect of Adhesive and Its Aging on the Performance of Piezoelectric Sensors in Structural Health Monitoring Systems
Authors: Liu Xuerong , Xu Yuanming , Wang Xiangyu , Ran Yunmeng , Zhang Weifang
Published: October 2020

Adhesive and its aging can have influence on the Piezoelectric (PZT) elements in structural health monitoring (SHM) systems. However, the current research pays little attention to the effect of adhesives in SHM systems, and the mechanism of adhesive aging on monitoring signals is still unclear. In the present study, the relationship between types of adhesives, adhesive thickness, accelerated aging, and monitoring signal was analyzed in detail. The study was carried out with three kinds of epoxy resin AB adhesive (AW106, E-30CL, and E-120HP) and bonding thicknesses (0.01, 0.05, and 0.12 mm), and the elevated temperature was 100 °C for 45 days. The signal-based monitoring method was used to extract the characteristic parameters. The experimental results indicated that the standard shear strength and thickness of the adhesive may have a combined effect on the monitoring signal. Increasing the thickness may enhance the shear strength between PZT and the matrix. For the effectiveness of monitoring the signal propagation, however, increase in thickness may have a negative influence. Moreover, the elevated temperature will bring the signal amplitude to a peak in the first period of aging, and the highest point appears in 10 to 15 days. Nevertheless, with the increase of aging time, the adhesive will finally be degraded, resulting in the decrease of the signal amplitude. The experimental results may provide useful information for practical monitoring in the SHM field.
Surface Characterization and Tribological Performance Analysis of Electric Discharge Machined Duplex Stainless Steel
Authors: Ablyaz Timur Rizovich , Shlykov Evgeny Sergeevich , Muratov Karim Ravilevich , Mahajan Amit , Singh Gurpreet , Devgan Sandeep , Sidhu Sarabjeet Singh
Published: October 2020

The present article focused on the surface characterization of electric discharge machined duplex stainless steel (DSS-2205) alloy with three variants of electrode material (Graphite, Copper-Tungsten and Tungsten electrodes). Experimentation was executed as per Taguchi L18 orthogonal array to inspect the influence of electric discharge machining (EDM) parameters on the material removal rate and surface roughness. The results revealed that the discharge current (contribution: 45.10%), dielectric medium (contribution: 18.24%) majorly affects the material removal rate, whereas electrode material (contribution: 38.72%), pulse-on-time (contribution: 26.11%) were the significant parameters affecting the surface roughness. The machined surface at high spark energy in EDM oil portrayed porosity, oxides formation, and intermetallic compounds. Moreover, a pin-on-disc wear analysis was executed and the machined surface exhibits 70% superior wear resistance compared to the un-machined sample. The surface thus produced also exhibited improved surface wettability responses. The outcomes depict that EDMed DSS alloy can be considered in the different biomedical and industrial applications.
Kineococcus vitellinus sp. nov., Kineococcus indalonis sp. nov. and Kineococcus siccus sp. nov., Isolated Nearby the Tabernas Desert (Almería, Spain)
Authors: Molina-Menor Esther , Gimeno-Valero Helena , Pascual Javier , Peretó Juli , Porcar Manuel
Published: October 2020

Three novel Gram-positive, aerobic, chemoheterotrophic, motile, non-endospore-forming, orange-pigmented bacteria designated strains T13T, T90T and R8T were isolated from the Tabernas Desert biocrust (Almería, Spain). Cells of the three strains were coccus-shaped and occurred singly, in pairs or clusters. The three strains were oxidase-negative and catalase-positive, and showed a mesophilic, neutrophilic and non-halophilic metabolism. Based on the 16S rRNA gene sequences, the closest neighbours of strains T13T, T90T and R8T were Kineococcus aurantiacus IFO 15268T, Kineococcus gypseus YIM 121300T and Kineococcus radiotolerans SRS 30216T (98.5%, 97.1% and 97.9% gene sequence similarity, respectively). The genomes were sequenced, and have been deposited in the GenBank/EMBL/DDBJ databases under the accession numbers JAAALL000000000, JAAALM000000000 and JAAALN000000000, respectively, for strains T13T, T90T and R8T. The average nucleotide identity (ANIb) and digital DNA-DNA hybridization (dDDH) values confirmed their adscription to three new species within the genus Kineococcus. The genomic G + C content of strains T13T, T90T and R8T ranged from 75.1% to 76.3%. The predominant fatty acid of all three strains was anteiso-C15:0. According to a polyphasic study, strains T13T, T90T and R8T are representatives of three new species in the genus Kineococcus, for which names Kineococcus vitellinus sp. nov. (type strain T13T = CECT 9936T = DSM 110024T), Kineococcus indalonis sp. nov. (type strain T90T = CECT 9938T = DSM 110026T) and Kineococcus siccus sp. nov. (type strain R8T = CECT 9937T = DSM 110025T) are proposed.
Editorial for Special Issue “Mineralogy and Geochemistry of Ruby”
Authors: Sutherland Frederick L. , Zaw Khin
Published: October 2020

Ruby as a natural gemstone has an early history in which its colorful properties [...]
Protein-Water and Water-Water Long-Time Relaxations in Protein Hydration Water upon Cooling—A Close Look through Density Correlation Functions
Authors: Tenuzzo Lorenzo , Camisasca Gaia , Gallo Paola
Published: October 2020

We report results on the translational dynamics of the hydration water of the lysozyme protein upon cooling obtained by means of molecular dynamics simulations. The self van Hove functions and the mean square displacements of hydration water show two different temperature activated relaxation mechanisms, determining two dynamic regimes where transient trapping of the molecules is followed by hopping phenomena to allow to the structural relaxations. The two caging and hopping regimes are different in their nature. The low-temperature hopping regime has a time scale of tenths of nanoseconds and a length scale on the order of 2–3 water shells. This is connected to the nearest-neighbours cage effect and restricted to the supercooling, it is absent at high temperature and it is the mechanism to escape from the cage also present in bulk water. The second hopping regime is active at high temperatures, on the nanoseconds time scale and over distances of nanometers. This regime is connected to water displacements driven by the protein motion and it is observed very clearly at high temperatures and for temperatures higher than the protein dynamical transition. Below this temperature, the suppression of protein fluctuations largely increases the time-scale of the protein-related hopping phenomena at least over 100 ns. These protein-related hopping phenomena permit the detection of translational motions of hydration water molecules longly persistent in the hydration shell of the protein.
Flavonoid Profiles of Two New Approved Romanian Ocimum Hybrids
Authors: Balanescu Fanica , Mihaila Maria , Cârâc Geta , Furdui Bianca , Vînătoru Costel , Avramescu Sorin , Lisa Elena , Cudalbeanu Mihaela , Dinica Rodica
Published: October 2020

Basil (Ocimum spp.) is a traditional herbal medicine abundant in antioxidants such as phenolic compounds. As part of a diet, this herb is proved to have some roles in decreasing the risk of cancer, and in the treatment of inflammation and neurodegenerative diseases. This study aims to explore the total phenolic and flavonoid content of two new basil hybrids growing in Romania, namely “Aromat de Buzau” (AB) and “Macedon” (MB). The antioxidant capacity of those two species was also analyzed by DPPH and cyclic voltammetry. Six different flavonoids, such as catechin (+), rutin, hyperoside, naringin, naringenin, and genistein, were separated, identified, and quantified by HPLC–DAD chromatography, for the first time, from romanian basil hybrids. The main flavonoid of the extracts was found to be naringin which is present in the highest amount (26.18 mg/kg) in “Aromat de Buzau” (O. basilicum) methanolic extract. These results suggest that dietary intake of these new hybrids can be a source of antioxidant compounds.
Binder-Free Electrode Based on ZnO Nanorods Directly Grown on Aluminum Substrate for High Performance Supercapacitors
Authors: Ahmed Faheem , Almutairi Ghzzai , AlOtaibi Bandar , Kumar Shalendra , Arshi Nishat , Hussain Syed Ghazanfar , Umar Ahmad , Ahmad Naushad , Aljaafari Abdullah
Published: October 2020

Herein, for the first time, the growth of ZnO nanorods directly on aluminum (Al) substrate via a low temperature (80 °C) wet chemical method, and used as binder-free electrode for supercapacitors were reported. XRD pattern and HRTEM images showed that high crystalline nanorods grown on Al substrate with c-axis orientation. Morphological studies revealed that the nanorods possessed well defined hexagon phase with length and diameter of ~2 µm and 100–180 nm, respectively. Raman spectrum of ZnO nanorods showed that the characteristic E2H mode corresponds to the vibration associated with the oxygen atoms of ZnO. The optical properties of ZnO nanorods studied using Room-temperature PL spectra revealed a near-band-edge (NBE) peak at ~388 nm emission and deep level (DLE) at ~507 nm. Electrochemical measurements showed that ZnO nanorods on Al substrate exhibited remarkably enhanced performance as electrode for supercapacitors with a value of specific capacitance of 394 F g−1 measured with scan rate of 20 mV s−1. This unique nanorods structures also exhibited excellent stability of >98% capacitance retention for 1000 cycles that were measured at 1A g−1. The presented easy and cost-effective method might open up the possibility for the mass production of binder-free electrodes for efficient electrochemical energy storage devices.
Well-Adhered Copper Nanocubes on Electrospun Polymeric Fibers
Authors: Aminu Temitope Q. , Brockway Molly C. , Skinner Jack L. , Bahr David F.
Published: October 2020

Electrospun polymer fibers can be used as templates for the stabilization of metallic nanostructures, but metallic species and polymer macromolecules generally exhibit weak interfacial adhesion. We have investigated the adhesion of model copper nanocubes on chemically treated aligned electrospun polyacrylonitrile (PAN) fibers based on the introduction of interfacial shear strains through mechanical deformation. The composite structures were subjected to distinct macroscopic tensile strain levels of 7%, 11%, and 14%. The fibers exhibited peculiar deformation behaviors that underscored their disparate strain transfer mechanisms depending on fiber size; nanofibers exhibited multiple necking phenomena, while microfiber deformation proceeded through localized dilatation that resulted in craze (and microcrack) formation. The copper nanocubes exhibited strong adhesion on both fibrous structures at all strain levels tested. Raman spectroscopy suggests chemisorption as the main adhesion mechanism. The interfacial adhesion energy of Cu on these treated PAN nanofibers was estimated using the Gibbs–Wulff–Kaischew shape theory giving a first order approximation of about 1 J/m2. A lower bound for the system’s adhesion strength, based on limited measurements of interfacial separation between PAN and Cu using mechanically applied strain, is 0.48 J/m2.
Photocatalytic Properties of Graphene/Gold and Graphene Oxide/Gold Nanocomposites Synthesized by Pulsed Laser Induced Photolysis
Authors: Chen Li-Hsiou , Shen Huan-Ting , Chang Wen-Hsin , Khalil Ibrahim , Liao Su-Yu , A. Yehye Wageeh , Liu Shih-Chuan , Chu Chih-Chien , Hsiao Vincent K. S.
Published: October 2020

Graphene (Gr)/gold (Au) and graphene-oxide (GO)/Au nanocomposites (NCPs) were synthesized by performing pulsed-laser-induced photolysis (PLIP) on hydrogen peroxide and chloroauric acid (HAuCl4) that coexisted with Gr or GO in an aqueous solution. A 3-month-long aqueous solution stability was observed in the NCPs synthesized without using surfactants and additional processing. The synthesized NCPs were characterized using absorption spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction to prove the existence of hybrid Gr/Au or GO/Au NCPs. The synthesized NCPs were further evaluated using the photocatalytic reaction of methylene blue (MB), a synthetic dye, under UV radiation, visible light (central wavelength of 470 nm), and full spectrum of solar light. Both Gr/Au and GO/Au NCPs exhibited photocatalytic degradation of MB under solar light illumination with removal efficiencies of 92.1% and 94.5%, respectively.
Fructose Consumption by Adult Rats Exposed to Dexamethasone In Utero Changes the Phenotype of Intestinal Epithelial Cells and Exacerbates Intestinal Gluconeogenesis
Authors: Pereira Gizela A. , Sodré Frhancielly S. , Murata Gilson M. , Amaral Andressa G. , Payolla Tanyara B. , Campos Carolina V. , Sato Fabio T. , Anhê Gabriel F. , Bordin Silvana
Published: October 2020

Fructose consumption by rodents modulates both hepatic and intestinal lipid metabolism and gluconeogenesis. We have previously demonstrated that in utero exposure to dexamethasone (DEX) interacts with fructose consumption during adult life to exacerbate hepatic steatosis in rats. The aim of this study was to clarify if adult rats born to DEX-treated mothers would display differences in intestinal gluconeogenesis after excessive fructose intake. To address this issue, female Wistar rats were treated with DEX during pregnancy and control (CTL) mothers were kept untreated. Adult offspring born to CTL and DEX-treated mothers were assigned to receive either tap water (Control-Standard Chow (CTL-SC) and Dexamethasone-Standard Chow (DEX-SC)) or 10% fructose in the drinking water (CTL-fructose and DEX-fructose). Fructose consumption lasted for 80 days. All rats were subjected to a 40 h fasting before sample collection. We found that DEX-fructose rats have increased glucose and reduced lactate in the portal blood. Jejunum samples of DEX-fructose rats have enhanced phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) expression and activity, higher facilitated glucose transporter member 2 (GLUT2) and facilitated glucose transporter member 5 (GLUT5) content, and increased villous height, crypt depth, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) staining. The current data reveal that rats born to DEX-treated mothers that consume fructose during adult life have increased intestinal gluconeogenesis while recapitulating metabolic and morphological features of the neonatal jejunum phenotype.
Isolation and Identification of Naegleria Species in Irrigation Channels for Recreational Use in Mexicali Valley, Mexico
Authors: Bonilla-Lemus Patricia , Rojas-Hernández Saúl , Ramírez-Flores Elizabeth , Castillo-Ramírez Diego A. , Monsalvo-Reyes Alejandro Cruz , Ramírez-Flores Miguel A. , Barrón-Graciano Karla , Reyes-Batlle María , Lorenzo-Morales Jacob , Carrasco-Yépez María Maricela
Published: October 2020

Members of the genus Naegleria are free-living amoebae that are widely distributed in water and soil environments. Moreover, Naegleria fowleri is a pathogenic amoeba species that causes a fatal disease in the central nervous system known as primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) in humans. Since most reported infections due to N. fowleri are reported in recreational waters worldwide, this study was aimed to describe the presence of these amoebic genus in Mexicali Valley irrigation channels of recreational use. A total of nine water samples were collected and processed by triplicate, in nine different sites of the Valley. After filtering and culturing the samples, plates were examined, and the observed amoebae were morphologically identified at the genus level. In addition, the pathogenicity of these amoebic isolates was checked, and molecular characterization was performed by PCR/sequencing. The results revealed the presence of Naegleria spp. in all the channels sampled. Finally, molecular identification confirmed the presence of five different species of Naegleria: N. fowleri, N. australiensis, N. gruberi, N. clarki and N. pagei. The presence of these protists, particularly N. fowleri, should be considered as a potential human health risk in the region.
A Novel Integrated Active Herbal Formulation Ameliorates Dry Eye Syndrome by Inhibiting Inflammation and Oxidative Stress and Enhancing Glycosylated Phosphoproteins in Rats
Authors: Muz Omer Ersin , Orhan Cemal , Erten Fusun , Tuzcu Mehmet , Ozercan Ibrahim Hanifi , Singh Prafull , Morde Abhijeet , Padigaru Muralidhara , Rai Deshanie , Sahin Kazim
Published: October 2020

Dry eye syndrome (DES) is a chronic condition of the eye with insufficient production of tears leading to inadequate lubrication of eyes. Symptoms of DES are associated with discomfort and redness of the eye, blurred vision, and tear film instability which leads to the damaged ocular surface. Inflammation and oxidative stress play a significant role in the pathogenesis of the disease. In this study, the protective effect of different doses (100 or 200 mg/kg) of a novel multi-component oral formulation of lutein/zeaxanthin, curcumin, and vitamin D3 (LCD) was evaluated using a rat model with benzalkonium chloride (BAC)-induced dry eye syndrome. The formulation was administered orally to rats for 4 weeks. We observed a significant improvement in tear volume, tear breakup time, tear film integrity, and reduction in overall inflammation in rats fed with the LCD at dose 200 mg/kg performing better than 100 mg/kg. Furthermore, the formulation helped in lowering oxidative stress by increasing antioxidant levels and restored protective tear protein levels including MUC1, MUC4, and MUC5AC with 200 mg of LCD having the most significant effect. The results strongly suggest that the combination of lutein/zeaxanthin, curcumin, and vitamin-D3 is effective in alleviating the symptoms of dry eye condition with a multi-modal mechanism of action.
A Refractive Index Sensitive Liquid Level Monitoring Sensor Based on Multimode Interference
Authors: Zhang Fan , Li Shuguang , Yan Xin , Zhang Xuenan , Wang Fang , Suzuki Takenobu , Ohishi Yasutake , Cheng Tonglei
Published: October 2020

According to the beam propagation method, a fiber refractive index-sensitive multimode interference (MMI) structure fabricated by splicing a self-made silica glass rod between two single mode fibers (SMF–NCF (no core fiber)–SMF structure) is proposed for liquid level monitoring. Theoretical and experimental investigation was carried out meticulously using a 4.5 cm and a 9.5 cm long silica glass rod. It is proved that the simple and economical sensor with the shorter length has high sensitivity, satisfactory repeatability, and favorable stability. The sensitivity climbs with the increase in refractive index of the measured liquid, which is 204 pm/mm for pure water, 265.8 pm/mm for 10% glycerin solution, and 352.5 pm/mm for 25% glycerin solution. The proposed sensor can be standardized in certain application circumstances to achieve accurate liquid level monitoring.
Morpho-Colorimetric Characterization of the Sardinian Endemic Taxa of the Genus Anchusa L. by Seed Image Analysis
Authors: Farris Emmanuele , Orrù Martino , Ucchesu Mariano , Amadori Arianna , Porceddu Marco , Bacchetta Gianluigi
Published: October 2020

In this work, the seed morpho-colorimetric differentiation of the Sardinian endemic species of Anchusa (Boraginaceae) was evaluated. In Sardinia, the Anchusa genus includes the following seven taxa: A. capellii, A. crispa ssp. crispa, A. crispa ssp. maritima, A. formosa, A. littorea, A. montelinasana, and A. sardoa. Seed images were acquired using a flatbed scanner and analyzed using the free software package ImageJ. A total of 74 seed morpho-colorimetric features of 2692 seed lots of seven taxa of Anchusa belonging to 17 populations were extrapolated and used to build a database of seed size, shape, and color features. The data were statistically elaborated by the stepwise linear discriminant analysis (LDA) to compare and discriminate each accession and taxon. In addition, the seed morpho-colorimetric differences among coastal and mountainous taxa were evaluated. Considering the ecological conditions, the LDA was able to discriminate among the Anchusa taxa with a correct identification of 87.4% and 90.8% of specimens for mountainous and coastal plants, respectively. Moreover, the LDA of the 17 populations of Anchusa showed a low separation among species and populations within the coastal group, highlighting how the long-distance dispersal by flotation on the sea water surface and the pollination network may influence the similarity patterns observed. In addition, a misattribution was observed for A. crispa ssp. crispa, which was misclassified as A. crispa ssp. maritima in 14.1% of cases, while A. crispa ssp. maritima was misidentified as A. crispa ssp. crispa in 21.1% of cases, highlighting a close phenotypic relationship between these two taxa. The statistical results obtained through the seed image analysis showed that the morpho-colorimetric features of the seeds provide important information about the adaptation and evolution of Anchusa taxa in Sardinia.