bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Dietary Supplement Containing Fucoidan Preserves Endothelial Glycocalyx through ERK/MAPK Signaling and Protects against Damage Induced by CKD Serum
Authors: Regier Manuel , Drost Carolin Christina , Rauen Matthias , Pavenstädt Hermann , Rovas Alexandros , Kümpers Philipp , Vink Hans , Long Robert M. , Linke Wolfgang A. , Nofer Jerzy-Roch , Lukasz Alexander-Henrik
Published: December 2022

(1) Damage to the endothelial glycocalyx (eGC), a protective layer lining the endothelial luminal surface, is associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD), which leads to a worsening of cardiovascular outcomes in these patients. Currently, there are no targeted therapeutic approaches. Whether the dietary supplement EndocalyxTM (ECX) protects against endothelial damage caused by uremic toxins is unknown. (2) We addressed this question by performing atomic force microscopy measurements on living endothelial cells. We examined the effect of ECX on eGC thickness at baseline and with pooled serum from hemodialysis patients. ECX was also successfully administered in vivo in mice, in which eGC was assessed using perfused boundary region measurements by intravital microscopy of cremasteric vessels. (3) Both ECX and fucoidan significantly improved baseline eGC thickness. Our data indicate that these effects are dependent on ERK/MAPK and PI3K signaling. After incubation with eGC damaging serum from dialysis patients, ECX increased eGC height. Intravital microscopy in mice revealed a relevant increase in baseline eGC dimensions after feeding with ECX. (4) We identified a dietary supplement containing glycocalyx substrates and fucoidan as potential mediators of eGC preservation in vitro and in vivo. Our findings suggest that fucoidan may be an essential component responsible for protecting the eGC in acute settings. Moreover, ECX might contribute to both protection and rebuilding of the eGC in the context of CKD.
LMNA Co-Regulated Gene Expression as a Suitable Readout after Precise Gene Correction
Authors: Wang Haicui , Krause Anne , Escobar Helena , Müthel Stefanie , Metzler Eric , Spuler Simone
Published: December 2022

LMNA-related muscular dystrophy is an autosomal-dominant progressive disorder caused by mutations in LMNA. LMNA missense mutations are becoming correctable with CRISPR/Cas9-derived tools. Evaluating the functional recovery of LMNA after gene editing bears challenges as there is no reported direct loss of function of lamin A/C proteins in patient-derived cells. The proteins encoded by LMNA are lamins A/C, important ubiquitous nuclear envelope proteins but absent in pluripotent stem cells. We induced lamin A/C expression in induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) of two patients with LMNA-related muscular dystrophy, NM_170707.4 (LMNA): c.1366A > G, p.(Asn456Asp) and c.1494G > T, p.(Trp498Cys), using a short three-day, serum-induced differentiation protocol and analyzed expression profiles of co-regulated genes, examples being COL1A2 and S100A6. We then performed precise gene editing of LMNA c.1366A > G using the near-PAMless (PAM: protospacer-adjacent motif) cytosine base editor. We show that the mutation can be repaired to 100% efficiency in individual iPSC clones. The fast differentiation protocol provided a functional readout and demonstrated increased lamin A/C expression as well as normalized expression of co-regulated genes. Collectively, our findings demonstrate the power of CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene correction and effective outcome measures in a disease with, so far, little perspective on therapies.
Synthesis, Characterization of Low Molecular Weight Chitosan Selenium Nanoparticles and Its Effect on DSS-Induced Ulcerative Colitis in Mice
Authors: Peng Shu-Jiang , Ye Da-Tian , Zheng Jie , Xue Ya-Ru , Lin Lin , Zhao Ya-Dong , Miao Wen-Hua , Song Yan , Wen Zheng-Shun , Zheng Bin
Published: December 2022

Selenium nanoparticles have attracted extensive attention due to their good bioavailability and activity. In the present study, a new form of selenium nanoparticle (Low molecular weight chitosan selenium nanoparticles (LCS-SeNPs)) were synthesized in a system of sodium selenite and acetic acid. The size, element state, morphology and elementary composition of LCS-SeNPs were characterized by using various spectroscopic and microscopic measurements. The protection of LCS-SeNPs against dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced intestinal barrier dysfunction and the inherent mechanisms of this process were investigated. The results showed that LCS-SeNPs, with an average diameter of 198 nm, zero-valent and orange-red relatively uniform spherical particles were prepared. LCS-SeNPs were mainly composed of C, N, O and Se elements, of which Se accounted for 39.03% of the four elements C, N, O and Se. LCS-SeNPs reduced colon injury and inflammation symptoms and improved intestinal barrier dysfunction. LCS-SeNPs significantly reduced serum and colonic inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6 levels. Moreover, LCS-SeNPs remarkably increased antioxidant enzyme GSH-Px levels in serum and colonic tissue. Further studies on inflammatory pathways showed that LCS-SeNPs alleviated DSS-induced colitis through the NF-κB signaling pathway, and relieved inflammatory associated oxidative stress through the Nrf2 signaling pathway. Our findings suggested that LCS-SeNPs are a promising selenium species with potential applications in the treatment of oxidative stress related inflammatory intestinal diseases.
Obesity and Risk for Lymphoma: Possible Role of Leptin
Authors: Jiménez-Cortegana Carlos , Hontecillas-Prieto Lourdes , García-Domínguez Daniel J. , Zapata Fernando , Palazón-Carrión Natalia , Sánchez-León María L. , Tami Malika , Pérez-Pérez Antonio , Sánchez-Jiménez Flora , Vilariño-García Teresa , de la Cruz-Merino Luis , Sánchez-Margalet Víctor
Published: December 2022

Obesity, which is considered a pandemic due to its high prevalence, is a risk factor for many types of cancers, including lymphoma, through a variety of mechanisms by promoting an inflammatory state. Specifically, over the last few decades, obesity has been suggested not only to increase the risk of lymphoma but also to be associated with poor clinical outcomes and worse responses to different treatments for those diseases. Within the extensive range of proinflammatory mediators that adipose tissue releases, leptin has been demonstrated to be a key adipokine due to its pleotropic effects in many physiological systems and diseases. In this sense, different studies have analyzed leptin levels and leptin/leptin receptor expressions as a probable bridge between obesity and lymphomas. Since both obesity and lymphomas are prevalent pathophysiological conditions worldwide and their incidences have increased over the last few years, here we review the possible role of leptin as a promising proinflammatory mediator promoting lymphomas.
Huntingtin and Other Neurodegeneration-Associated Proteins in the Development of Intracellular Pathologies: Potential Target Search for Therapeutic Intervention
Authors: Churkina (Taran) Aleksandra S. , Shakhov Anton S. , Kotlobay Anatoly A. , Alieva Irina B.
Published: December 2022

Neurodegenerative diseases are currently incurable. Numerous experimental data accumulated over the past fifty years have brought us closer to understanding the molecular and cell mechanisms responsible for their development. However, these data are not enough for a complete understanding of the genesis of these diseases, nor to suggest treatment methods. It turns out that many cellular pathologies developing during neurodegeneration coincide from disease to disease. These observations give hope to finding a common intracellular target(s) and to offering a universal method of treatment. In this review, we attempt to analyze data on similar cellular disorders among neurodegenerative diseases in general, and polyglutamine neurodegenerative diseases in particular, focusing on the interaction of various proteins involved in the development of neurodegenerative diseases with various cellular organelles. The main purposes of this review are: (1) to outline the spectrum of common intracellular pathologies and to answer the question of whether it is possible to find potential universal target(s) for therapeutic intervention; (2) to identify specific intracellular pathologies and to speculate about a possible general approach for their treatment.
The Influence of Acitretin on Brain Lipidomics in Adolescent Mice—Implications for Pediatric and Adolescent Dermatological Therapy
Authors: Lauer Anna A. , Nguyen Vu Thu Thuy , Janitschke Daniel , dos Santos Guilherme Malena , Bachmann Cornel M. , Grimm Heike S. , Hartmann Tobias , Endres Kristina , Grimm Marcus O. W.
Published: December 2022

Administration of systemic retinoids such as acitretin has not been approved yet for pediatric patients. An adverse event of retinoid-therapy that occurs with lower prevalence in children than in adults is hyperlipidemia. This might be based on the lack of comorbidities in young patients, but must not be neglected. Especially for the development of the human brain up to young adulthood, dysbalance of lipids might be deleterious. Here, we provide for the first time an in-depth analysis of the influence of subchronic acitretin-administration on lipid composition of brain parenchyma of young wild type mice. For comparison and to evaluate the systemic effect of the treatment, liver lipids were analogously investigated. As expected, triglycerides increased in liver as well as in brain and a non-significant increase in cholesterol was observed. However, specifically brain showed an increase in lyso-phosphatidylcholine and carnitine as well as in sphingomyelin. Group analysis of lipid classes revealed no statistical effects, while single species were tissue-dependently changed: effects in brain were in general more subtly as compared to those in liver regarding the mere number of changed lipid species. Thus, while the overall impact of acitretin seems comparably small regarding brain, the change in individual species and their role in brain development and maturation has to be considered.
The Ros/MucR Zinc-Finger Protein Family in Bacteria: Structure and Functions
Authors: Janczarek Monika
Published: December 2022

Ros/MucR is a widespread family of bacterial zinc-finger-containing proteins that integrate multiple functions, such as symbiosis, virulence, transcription regulation, motility, production of surface components, and various other physiological processes in cells. This regulatory protein family is conserved in bacteria and is characterized by its zinc-finger motif, which has been proposed as the ancestral domain from which the eukaryotic C2H2 zinc-finger structure has evolved. The first prokaryotic zinc-finger domain found in the transcription regulator Ros was identified in Agrobacterium tumefaciens. In the past decades, a large body of evidence revealed Ros/MucR as pleiotropic transcriptional regulators that mainly act as repressors through oligomerization and binding to AT-rich target promoters. The N-terminal domain and the zinc-finger-bearing C-terminal region of these regulatory proteins are engaged in oligomerization and DNA binding, respectively. These properties of the Ros/MucR proteins are similar to those of xenogeneic silencers, such as H-NS, MvaT, and Lsr2, which are mainly found in other lineages. In fact, a novel functional model recently proposed for this protein family suggests that they act as H-NS-‘like’ gene silencers. The prokaryotic zinc-finger domain exhibits interesting structural and functional features that are different from that of its eukaryotic counterpart (a βββα topology), as it folds in a significantly larger zinc-binding globular domain (a βββαα topology). Phylogenetic analysis of Ros/MucR homologs suggests an ancestral origin of this type of protein in α-Proteobacteria. Furthermore, multiple duplications and lateral gene transfer events contributing to the diversity and phyletic distribution of these regulatory proteins were found in bacterial genomes.
Aberrations in FGFR1, FGFR2, and RIP5 Expression in Human Congenital Anomalies of the Kidney and Urinary Tract (CAKUT)
Authors: Kelam Nela , Racetin Anita , Polović Mirjana , Benzon Benjamin , Ogorevc Marin , Vukojević Katarina , Glavina Durdov Merica , Dunatov Huljev Ana , Kuzmić Prusac Ivana , Čarić Davor , Raguž Fila , Kostić Sandra
Published: December 2022

This study aimed to explore the spatio-temporal expression patterns of congenital anomalies of kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT) candidate genes, Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor 1 (FGFR1), Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor 2 (FGFR2) and Receptor-Interacting Protein Kinase 5 (RIP5), in human fetal kidney development (CTRL) and kidneys affected with CAKUT. Human fetal kidneys from the 22nd to 41st developmental week (duplex, hypoplastic, dysplastic, and controls) were stained with antibodies and analyzed by epifluorescence microscopy and RT−qPCR. The effect of CAKUT candidate genes on kidney nephrogenesis and function is confirmed by statistically significant variations in the spatio-temporal expression patterns of the investigated markers. The nuclear localization of FGFR1, elevated expression score of FGFR1 mRNA, the increased area percentage of FGFR1-positive cells in the kidney cortex, and the overall decrease in the expression after the peak at the 27th developmental week in dysplastic kidneys (DYS), suggest an altered expression pattern and protein function in response to CAKUT pathophysiology. The RT−qPCR analysis revealed a significantly higher FGFR2 mRNA expression score in the CAKUT kidneys compared to the CTRL. This increase could be due to the repair mechanism involving the downstream mediator, Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2). The expression of RIP5 during normal human kidney development was reduced temporarily, due to urine production and increased later since it undertakes additional functions in the maturation of the postnatal kidney and homeostasis, while the expression dynamics in CAKUT-affected kidneys exhibited a decrease in the percentage of RIP5-positive cells during the investigated developmental period. Our findings highlight the importance of FGFR1, FGFR2, and RIP5 as markers in normal and pathological kidney development.
Tangled in a Web: Management Type and Vegetation Shape the Occurrence of Web-Building Spiders in Protected Areas
Authors: Ellsworth El , Li Yihan , Chari Lenin D. , Kron Aidan , Moyo Sydney
Published: December 2022

Land management of parks and vegetation complexity can affect arthropod diversity and subsequently alter trophic interactions between predators and their prey. In this study, we examined spiders in five parks with varying management histories and intensities to determine whether certain spider species were associated with particular plants. We also determined whether web architecture influenced spider occurrence. Our results showed that humpbacked orb-weavers (Eustala anastera) were associated with an invasive plant, Chinese privet (Ligustrum sinense). This study revealed how invasive plants can potentially influence certain spider communities, as evidenced by this native spider species only occurring on invasive plants. Knowing more about spider populations—including species makeup and plants they populate—will give insights into how spider populations are dealing with various ecosystem changes. While we did not assess the effect of invasive plants on the behavior of spiders, it is possible that invasive species may not always be harmful to ecosystems; in the case of spiders, invasive plants may serve as a useful environment to live in. More studies are needed to ascertain whether invasive plants can have adverse effects on spider ecology in the long term.
Characteristics of Diaphragmatic and Chest Wall Motion in People with Normal Pulmonary Function: A Study with Free-Breathing Dynamic MRI
Authors: Yang Xiaoyan , Sun Haishuang , Deng Mei , Chen Yicong , Li Chen , Yu Pengxin , Zhang Rongguo , Liu Min , Dai Huaping , Wang Chen
Published: December 2022

Objective: We aimed to quantitatively study the characteristic of diaphragm and chest wall motion using free-breathing dynamic magnetic resonance imaging (D-MRI) in Chinese people with normal lung function. Methods: 74 male subjects (mean age, 37 ± 11 years old) were prospectively enrolled, and they underwent high-resolution CT(HRCT), pulmonary functional tests (PFTs), and D-MRI in the same day. D-MRI was acquired with a gradient-echo sequence during the quiet and deep breathing. The motion of the diaphragm and chest wall were respectively assessed by measuring thoracic anteroposterior diameter (AP), left–right diameter (LR), cranial–caudal diameter (CC), and thoracic area ratios between end-inspiration and end-expiration. The effect of age, body mass index (BMI), and smoking on respiratory muscle function was also analyzed. Results: The mean ratio of right and left AP was greater than that of LR on three transversal planes during both quiet and deep breathing. The mean ratio at the anterior diaphragm (AND, Quiet: 1.04 ± 0.03; Deep: 1.15 ± 0.09) was weaker than that of the apex (vs. APD, Quiet: 1.08 ± 0.05, p < 0.001; Deep: 1.29 ± 0.12, p < 0.001) and posterior diaphragm (vs. POD, Quiet: 1.09 ± 0.04, p < 0.001; Deep: 1.30 ± 0.12, p < 0.001) both in quiet and deep breathing. Compared with non-smokers, the left AP and thoracic area ratios in smokers were significantly decreased (p < 0.05). However, the ratios of AP, LR, CC, and thoracic area on each plane were similar among groups in different age and BMI. Conclusions: During both quiet and deep breathing, the chest wall motion is prominent in the anteroposterior direction. The motions of diaphragm apex and posterior diaphragm were more prominent than that of the anterior diaphragm. Smoking may affect the respiratory muscle mobility. Dynamic MRI can quantitatively evaluate the motion of respiratory muscles.
Intraocular Pressure Fluctuation in Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma with Canaloplasty and Microcatheter Assisted Trabeculotomy
Authors: Xin Chen , Wang Ningli , Wang Huaizhou
Published: December 2022

Background: Schlemm’s canal (SC) targeted procedures constitute a promising therapy for open angle glaucoma (POAG), safer and less invasive. However, little attention was paid to the intraocular pressure (IOP) variation in patients receiving these procedures, which is the risk factor for POAG progression. This study is to evaluate the IOP variation in eyes with POAG after modified canaloplasty (MC) and microcatheter assisted trabeculotomy (MAT). (2) Methods: POAG with good IOP in office hours after MC or MAT and age-matched normal subjects were recruited in this prospective coherent study. IOP in sitting and supine positions and 24-h IOP was measured. Aqueous vein and blood reflux into the SC were examined. (3) Results: Among 20 normal subjects, 25 eyes with MC eyes and 30 eyes with MAT were recruited in this study. Aqueous veins are frequently located in the inferior nasal quadrants in all groups. No pulsatile signs were observed in an aqueous vein in the MAT group but they were observed in 68% of the MC group. Blood reflux in the SC could be seen in all the operated eyes. The IOP in the sitting position was not significant different among groups (p = 0.419). Compared to normal, the IOP increased dramatically after lying down for 5 min in the MC and MAT groups (PMC vs. normal = 0.003, PMAT vs. normal = 0.004), which is similar for IOP change after lying down for 60 min (PMC vs. normal < 0.001, PMAT vs. normal < 0.001). In terms of diurnal IOP, subjects were stable in the MAT group (p < 0.01), variable in the normal group (p = 0.002), and most fluctuant in MC group (p < 0.001). (4) Conclusions: MC and MAT reduce the IOP but present aberrant short-term IOP regulation, which should be paid attention to in clinical settings.
Correction: Daskalaki et al. Early Postoperative Parathormone and Calcium as Prognostic Factors for Postoperative Hypocalcemia. J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11, 2389
Authors: Daskalaki Anna , Xenaki Sofia , Lasithiotakis Konstantinos , Chrysos Alexandros , Kampa Marilena , Notas George , Chrysos Emmanuel
Published: December 2022

In the published article [...]
A Total of 207 Days of Veno-Venous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Support for Severe COVID-19 Prior to Successful Lung Transplantation: A Case Report
Authors: Naar Jan , Kruger Andreas , Vondrakova Dagmar , Janotka Marek , Kubele Jan , Lischke Robert , Kolarova Milena , Neuzil Petr , Ostadal Petr
Published: December 2022

Veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV-ECMO) is a life-saving treatment for respiratory failure that may serve as a bridge to patient recovery or lung transplantation. In COVID-19, recovery is somewhat unpredictable and occasionally occurs after >100 days on VV-ECMO support. Thus, determining therapy cessation may be difficult. We report the case of a 59-year-old male without specific risk factors admitted to a tertiary center for rapidly progressive respiratory failure due to severe COVID-19, despite aggressive mechanical ventilatory support. Immediate insertion of VV-ECMO was associated with prompt resolution of hypoxemia and hypercapnia; however, all therapeutic efforts to wean the patient from VV-ECMO failed. During the prolonged hospitalization on VV-ECMO, sepsis was the most life-threatening complication. The patient overcame roughly 40 superinfections, predominantly affecting the respiratory tract, and spent 183 days on antimicrobial treatment. Although the function of other organ systems was generally stable, gradually progressive right ventricular dysfunction due to precapillary pulmonary hypertension required increasing doses of inotropes. A successful lung transplantation was performed after 207 days of VV-ECMO support. The present case provides evidence for prolonged VV-ECMO therapy as a bridge to lung transplantation in severe COVID-19 despite numerous, predominantly infectious complications.
The Role of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Infections
Authors: Krznarić Juraj , Vince Adriana
Published: December 2022

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most prevalent chronic liver disease, affecting one third of the Western population. The hallmark of the disease is excessive storage of fat in the liver. Most commonly, it is caused by metabolic syndrome (or one of its components). Even though the development of NAFLD has multiple effects on the human organism resulting in systemic chronic low-grade inflammation, this review is focused on NAFLD as a risk factor for the onset, progression, and outcomes of infectious diseases. The correlation between NAFLD and infections is still unclear. Multiple factors (obesity, chronic inflammation, altered immune system function, insulin resistance, altered intestinal microbiota, etc.) have been proposed to play a role in the development and progression of infections in people with NAFLD, although the exact mechanism and the interplay of mentioned factors is still mostly hypothesized. In this article we review only the selection of well-researched topics on NAFLD and infectious diseases (bacterial pneumonia, COVID, H. pylori, urinary tract infections, C. difficile, bacteremia, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, HIV, and periodontitis).
Mechanical Properties of Polyethylene Fiber Reinforced Ultra High Performance Concrete (UHPC)
Authors: Zhao Xin , Cai Lei , Ji Xiaohua , Zeng Wei , Liu Jintao
Published: December 2022

Ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) is a kind of cement-based material with ultra-high strength, high toughness and excellent durability. However, the tensile strain capacity of UHPC is often below 0.5%, and the mode of single crack failure is the main failure pattern, which limits the development of UHPC. In order to overcome the weakness of the relatively low strain capacity of UHPC, five types of polyethylene (PE) fibers with different geometrical and mechanical parameters (length, diameter and elastic modulus) were added into the matrix, and the corresponding mechanical behavior was investigated. The experimental results showed that the high fiber length and fiber diameter of PE fibers are a benefit for the compressive strength and tensile strength of UHPC. The increase of the fiber diameter and elastic modulus remarkably attributed to the increase in the tensile strain capacity of UHPC. With the increase of the fiber diameter and elastic modulus, the overall energy absorption capacity G and the energy absorption capacity of the substrate prior to the softening section ga of UHPC were both enhanced. The diameter of PE fiber was the main factor affecting the energy consumption of UHPC. Among the five types of PE fiber, PF fiber (PF fiber is PF type polyethylene fiber; Fiber length: 15 mm; Fiber diameter: 27 μm; Elastic Modulus: 117 GPa) is the optimal fiber to increase the tensile mechanical behavior of UHPC.
Modification Effect of Nano-Clay on Mechanical Behavior of Composite Geomaterials: Cement, Nano-Silica and Coastal Soft Soil
Authors: Wang Yaying , Wang Wei , Zhao Yinuo , Li Na , Luo Jiale , Belete Asefa Mulugeta , Ping Jiang
Published: December 2022

To study the modification effect of nano-clay and nano-SiO2 on cement-reinforced coastal soft soil, the effects of the nano-SiO2 and nano-clay on the mechanical properties of cement soil were studied through unconfined compressive and unconsolidated undrained shear tests, and the Duncan–Chang model was used to fit the test results. Results show that adding nano-clay and nano-SiO2 to cement soil improved its compressive and shear strength. The compressive strength and shear strength increased by 18–57% and 3–32%, respectively, with the increase in nano-clay content in a content range of 0–10%. Additionally, nano-clay can enhance the ductility of cement soil. Moreover, nano-clay and nano-SiO2 improve the shear strength by increasing the internal friction angle by 1°–2° and cohesion of 9–25%, and the cement-stabilized coastal soft soil enhanced by nano-SiO2 and nano-clay conforms to the Duncan–Chang model well.
AFM Measurements and Testing Properties of HDPE and PBT Composites with Fillers in the Form of Montmorillonite and Aluminum Hydroxide
Authors: Bałaga Zbigniew , Gnatowski Adam , Kulesza Sławomir , Bramowicz Mirosław , Gwoździk Monika
Published: December 2022

This paper presents the effect of the addition of fillers such as aluminum hydroxide or montmorillonite on the structure and properties of polymers such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and polybutylene terephthalate (PBT). Both types of specimens were obtained by injection molding. X-ray diffraction examinations were performed on the materials obtained to determine the effect of the addition of the fillers used on the degree of crystallinity of the composites. The density and hardness of the composites were evaluated, and the static tensile test and the analysis of the structure parameters using atomic force microscopy (AFM) were also carried out. It was shown that the addition of powder fillers to polymers such as high-density polyethylene and polybutylene terephthalate affects the structure parameters such as surface roughness, mean grain size, anisotropy ratio, fractal dimension, the corner frequency of the composites, and mechanical properties such as Young’s pseudo-modulus, average adhesion force, hardness, and tensile strength.
Polarization Control in Integrated Graphene-Silicon Quantum Photonics Waveguides
Authors: Cammarata Simone , Fontana Andrea , Kaplan Ali Emre , Cornia Samuele , Dao Thu Ha , Lacava Cosimo , Demontis Valeria , Iadanza Simone , Vitali Valerio , De Matteis Fabio , Pedreschi Elena , Magazzù Guido , Toncelli Alessandra , Spinella Franco , Saponara Sergio , Gunnella Roberto , Rossella Francesco , Salamon Andrea , Bellani Vittorio
Published: December 2022

We numerically investigated the use of graphene nanoribbons placed on top of silicon-on-insulator (SOI) strip waveguides for light polarization control in silicon photonic-integrated waveguides. We found that two factors mainly affected the polarization control: the graphene chemical potential and the geometrical parameters of the waveguide, such as the waveguide and nanoribbon widths and distance. We show that the graphene chemical potential influences both TE and TM polarizations almost in the same way, while the waveguide width tapering enables both TE-pass and TM-pass polarizing functionalities. Overall, by increasing the oxide spacer thickness between the silicon waveguide and the top graphene layer, the device insertion losses can be reduced, while preserving a high polarization extinction ratio.
Ionic Chiral Ferrocene Doped Cholesteric Liquid Crystal with Electronically Tunable Reflective Bandwidth performance
Authors: He Wan-Li , Zhang Ya-Qian , Hu Wen-Tuo , Zhou Hui-Min , Yang Zhou , Cao Hui , Wang Dong
Published: December 2022

Cholesteric liquid crystals (CLC) were widely used in optical devices as one-dimensional photonic crystals. However, their reflective bands cannot be adjusted, which limits their wide application in many fields. In this paper, a series of ionic chiral ferrocene derivatives (CD-Fc+) as dopants were designed and prepared, and their doping into negative liquid crystal matrix was investigated to develop cholesteric response liquid crystal composites with electrically tunable reflective bands. The effects of electric field frequency, voltage, retention time of voltage and molecular structure on the broadening of reflection bandwidth were investigated in detail.
Application of ECC as a Repair/Retrofit and Pavement/Bridge Deck Material for Sustainable Structures: A Review
Authors: Yücel Hasan Erhan , Dutkiewicz Maciej , Yıldızhan Fatih
Published: December 2022

Concrete structures cannot efficiently perform their functions over time due to chemical and physical external effects. Thus, enhancing the relationship between repair and aged structures, and also improving the durability properties of concrete is crucial in terms of sustainability. However, high costs, negative environmental effects, and incompatibility problems occur in repair/retrofit applications. Furthermore, three-quarters of the failures in the repaired/retrofitted structures are caused by a lack of repair durability. The need for repair in pavement/bridge decks is also frequently encountered, and early-age performance problems with repair materials cause pavement/bridge decks to be unavailable for certain periods of time. Engineered Cementitious Composite (ECC) can be effectively used as repair/retrofit and pavement/bridge deck material. It also has a minimal need for repair/retrofit thanks to its high durability properties. This article presents state-of-the-art research regarding the application of ECC as a repair/retrofit and pavement/bridge deck material. Studies in the literature show that the repair/retrofit properties of ECC outperform conventional concrete and steel fiber-reinforced concrete. ECC can be a solution to high early strength and drying shrinkage problems frequently encountered in the use of repair materials. It could also be used for different repair applications such as cast, sprayed, and trenchless rehabilitation. Moreover, ECC might fulfill specific requirements for pavement, pavement overlay, tunnel pavement, airfield pavement, and bridge deck. These superior performances are attributed to ECC’s kink-crack trapping mechanism, uniquely large inelastic strain capacity, strain hardening, high tensile strain capacity, and multiple microcracking and ductile behaviors, especially bonding behavior and self-healing.
Fault Current Limitation in Electrical Power Networks Containing HTS Cable and HTS Fuse
Authors: Degtyarenko Pavel N. , Zheltov Vladimir V. , Balashov Nikolay N. , Arkhangelsky Andrey Yu. , Degtyarenko Alena Yu. , Kovalev Konstantin L.
Published: December 2022

Numerical calculations of parameters of an electrical power network where an HTS fuse is used as a fault current limiting device have been done. The calculations were performed for networks containing different types of HTS cables as well. The design of HTS fuse was developed based on the numerical calculation for the network-rated parameters considering the special types 2G HTS tape characteristics. The distinctive feature of these tapes is the minimal thickness (about 30 µm) of the substrate at the critical current 450–600 A. The tests were performed at a voltage of 1 kV and demonstrated the ability of circuit breaking at fault currents about 3–4 kA. A comparison of experimental results with the calculations allows us to conclude that the HTS fuse of this design can operate as a fault current limiting device in electrical power networks at various rated voltage levels.
Study on Microstructure and Properties of Black Micro-Arc Oxidation Coating on AZ31 Magnesium Alloy by Orthogonal Experiment
Authors: Li Hongzhan , Wang Yifei , Geng Juanjuan , Li Shaolong , Chen Yongnan
Published: December 2022

The effects of CuSO4 concentration, voltage and treating time on the hemisphere emissivity and corrosion resistance of AZ31B magnesium-alloy black micro-arc oxidation coatings were studied by orthogonal experiment. The microstructure, phase composition, corrosion resistance and hemisphere emissivity of the coating were investigated by scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, electrochemical test and infrared emissivity spectrometer, respectively. The results showed that the influences of each factor on corrosion current density and the hemisphere emissivity are as follows: voltage > treating time > CuSO4 concentration. The black MAO coatings are mainly composed of WO3, MgAl2O4, CuAl2O4, MgO, CuO and MgF2. The CuO and CuAl2O4 phases are the main reasons for blackness of the coatings. The coating exhibits the best corrosion resistance under the conditions of CuSO4 concentration 1.5 g/L, oxidation voltage 500 V and treating time 10 min. Additionally, the variation trends of hemispherical emissivity and roughness of the black MAO coating are the same when the composition of the coatings is similar. When the concentration of CuSO4 is 1.5 g/L, the oxidation voltage is 450 V and the treatment time is 10 min, the coating with the highest hemispherical emissivity of 0.84 can be obtained.
Cyclic Shear Behavior of Frozen Cement-Treated Sand–Concrete Interface
Authors: Pan Rongkai , Yang Zhaohui (Joey) , Yang Ping , Shi Xin
Published: December 2022

The cyclic shear behavior of frozen cement-treated soil–concrete interfaces is critical for analyzing soil–structure interfaces and foundation design in cold regions and artificially frozen ground. The cyclic shear behavior of the interface between frozen cement-treated sand and structure is investigated in this paper at various normal stresses and temperatures. Experimental results include the variation of the peak shear stress, peak normal displacement, shear stiffness with the number of cycles, and the relationship between peak shear stress and smoothness under certain conditions. Peak shear stresses of warm frozen cement-treated sand and cold frozen cement-treated sand varied with cycle number. Additionally, the former is significantly larger than the latter in the stable phase. The peak normal displacement showed the same results, indicating that the ice crystals formed on the surface and the strength of the frozen cement-treated sand have significant differences at various temperatures. The study’s findings aid in understanding the complexities of the cyclic shear behavior of frozen cement-treated sand and structure interfaces and provide references on frozen cement-treated sand zones in practical engineering.
Influence of the Welding Degree on the Strength and Failure Modes of Tuff
Authors: Li Lihui , Li Chenglong , Huang Beixiu , Wang Ming , Bai Zhida , Qi Shengwen
Published: December 2022

The diagenesis of welded tuffs is a process in which volcanic debris undergoes degassing, compaction, and quenching, and vitreous rheologic, which indicates that the welding occurred in a high-temperature, high-pressure diagenetic environment and that different temperatures and pressures result in different degrees of welding in the welded tuffs, which can also result in differences in the mechanical properties of the rock. In this study, based on petrographic identification, mineral composition analysis, and pore structure characterization, uniaxial compression combined with linear accelerator CT and Brazilian splitting tests was carried out to investigate the influence of the welding degree on the strength and failure modes. The test results showed that although they had almost similar mineral composition and porosity, the uniaxial compression strength and tensile strength of the strongly welded tuffs were greater than that of the weakly welded tuffs. Their failure modes were also different. Fractures in the weakly welded tuffs developed gradually, while the strongly welded tuffs showed a higher brittleness with sudden failure. The results of this study shed light on the influence of the diagenetic environment on the mechanical properties of rock from a geological perspective and can provide a mechanical basis for rockfall risk evaluation in scenic areas of welded tuff.
Robust Synchronization of Fractional-Order Chaotic System Subject to Disturbances
Authors: Li Dongya , Zhang Xiaoping , Wang Shuang , You Fengxiang
Published: December 2022

This paper studies the synchronization problem for a class of chaotic systems subject to disturbances. The nonlinear functions contained in the master and slave systems are assumed to be incremental quadratic constraints. Under some assumptions, a feedback law is designed so that the error system behaves like the H∞ performance. Meanwhile, the detailed algorithm for computing the incremental multiplier matrix is also given. Finally, one numerical example and one practical example are simulated to show the effectiveness of the designed method.
Enhancing Bioproducts in Seaweeds via Sustainable Aquaculture: Antioxidant and Sun-Protection Compounds
Authors: Ashkenazi Doron Yehoshua , Figueroa Félix L. , Korbee Nathalie , García-Sánchez Marta , Vega Julia , Ben-Valid Shoshana , Paz Guy , Salomon Eitan , Israel Álvaro , Abelson Avigdor
Published: December 2022

Marine macroalgae are considered an untapped source of healthy natural metabolites and their market demand is rapidly increasing. Intertidal macroalgae present chemical defense mechanisms that enable them to thrive under changing environmental conditions. These intracellular chemicals include compounds that can be used for human benefit. The aim of this study was to test cultivation protocols that direct seaweed metabolic responses to enhance the production of target antioxidant and photoprotective biomaterials. We present an original integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) design, based on a two-phase cultivation plan, in which three seaweed species were initially fed by fish effluents, and subsequently exposed to various abiotic stresses, namely, high irradiance, nutrient starvation, and high salinity. The combined effect of the IMTA’s high nutrient concentrations and/or followed by the abiotic stressors enhanced the seaweeds’ content of mycosporine-like amino acids (MAAs) by 2.3-fold, phenolic compounds by 1.4-fold, and their antioxidant capacity by 1.8-fold. The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) rose by 2.7-fold, and the chlorophyll and phycobiliprotein synthesis was stimulated dramatically by an order of magnitude. Our integrated cultivation system design offers a sustainable approach, with the potential to be adopted by emerging industries for food and health applications.
Exploring Micromonospora as Phocoenamicins Producers
Authors: Kokkini Maria , González Heredia Cristina , Oves-Costales Daniel , de la Cruz Mercedes , Sánchez Pilar , Martín Jesús , Vicente Francisca , Genilloud Olga , Reyes Fernando
Published: December 2022

Over the past few years, new technological and scientific advances have reinforced the field of natural product discovery. The spirotetronate class of natural products has recently grown with the discovery of phocoenamicins, natural actinomycete derived compounds that possess different antibiotic activities. Exploring the MEDINA’s strain collection, 27 actinomycete strains, including three marine-derived and 24 terrestrial strains, were identified as possible phocoenamicins producers and their taxonomic identification by 16S rDNA sequencing showed that they all belong to the Micromonospora genus. Using an OSMAC approach, all the strains were cultivated in 10 different media each, resulting in 270 fermentations, whose extracts were analyzed by LC-HRMS and subjected to High-throughput screening (HTS) against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Ra and Mycobacterium bovis. The combination of LC-UV-HRMS analyses, metabolomics analysis and molecular networking (GNPS) revealed that they produce several related spirotetronates not disclosed before. Variations in the culture media were identified as the most determining factor for phocoenamicin production and the best producer strains and media were established. Herein, we reported the chemically diverse production and metabolic profiling of Micromonospora sp. strains, including the known phocoenamicins and maklamicin, reported for the first time as being related to this family of compounds, as well as the bioactivity of their crude extracts. Although our findings do not confirm previous statements about phocoenamicins production only in unique marine environments, they have identified marine-derived Micromonospora species as the best producers of phocoenamicins in terms of both the abundance in their extracts of some major members of the structural class and the variety of molecular structures produced.
Regulation of Papillary Muscle Contractility by NAD and Ammonia Interplay: Contribution of Ion Channels and Exchangers
Authors: Averin Alexey S. , Konakov Maxim V. , Pimenov Oleg Y. , Galimova Miliausha H. , Berezhnov Alexey V. , Nenov Miroslav N. , Dynnik Vladimir V.
Published: December 2022

Various models, including stem cells derived and isolated cardiomyocytes with overexpressed channels, are utilized to analyze the functional interplay of diverse ion currents involved in cardiac automaticity and excitation–contraction coupling control. Here, we used β-NAD and ammonia, known hyperpolarizing and depolarizing agents, respectively, and applied inhibitory analysis to reveal the interplay of several ion channels implicated in rat papillary muscle contractility control. We demonstrated that: 4 mM β-NAD, having no strong impact on resting membrane potential (RMP) and action potential duration (APD90) of ventricular cardiomyocytes, evoked significant suppression of isometric force (F) of paced papillary muscle. Reactive blue 2 restored F to control values, suggesting the involvement of P2Y-receptor-dependent signaling in β-NAD effects. Meantime, 5 mM NH4Cl did not show any effect on F of papillary muscle but resulted in significant RMP depolarization, APD90 shortening, and a rightward shift of I–V relationship for total steady state currents in cardiomyocytes. Paradoxically, NH4Cl, being added after β-NAD and having no effect on RMP, APD, and I–V curve, recovered F to the control values, indicating β-NAD/ammonia antagonism. Blocking of HCN, Kir2.x, and L-type calcium channels, Ca2+-activated K+ channels (SK, IK, and BK), or NCX exchanger reverse mode prevented this effect, indicating consistent cooperation of all currents mediated by these channels and NCX. We suggest that the activation of Kir2.x and HCN channels by extracellular K+, that creates positive and negative feedback, and known ammonia and K+ resemblance, may provide conditions required for the activation of all the chain of channels involved in the interplay. Here, we present a mechanistic model describing an interplay of channels and second messengers, which may explain discovered antagonism of β-NAD and ammonia on rat papillary muscle contractile activity.
Effect of Co-Existing Ions on Salinity Gradient Power Generation by Reverse Electrodialysis Using Different Ion Exchange Membrane Pairs
Authors: Kaya Tuğçe Zeynep , Altıok Esra , Güler Enver , Kabay Nalan
Published: December 2022

This study investigates the influence of co-existing ions on the salinity gradient power generation performance of the reverse electrodialysis (RED) using three different commercial ion exchange membrane pairs. The feed solutions, including the mixture of two different salts, were prepared with 90 wt.% of NaCl and 10 wt.% of LiCl, KCl, CaCl2, MgCl2 or Na2SO4 by keeping the salt ratio between high concentrate solution and low concentrate solution constant as 1:30 (g/g) at various flow velocities (50, 125 and 200 mL/min). It was observed that the divalent ions exhibited a negative impact on the performance of the RED system due to their high valence and low ionic mobility depending on their high hydrated radius and low diffusion coefficients compared to those of the monovalent ions. On the other hand, the effect of the monovalent ions differed according to the properties of ion exchange membranes used in the RED stack. When the power generation performances of ion exchange membrane pairs employed in the RED stack were compared, it was considered that Neosepta AMX and CMX membranes provided the highest power density due to their low membrane thicknesses, low electrical resistances, and relatively high ion exchange capacities compared to other two commercial ion exchange membrane pairs.
Design and Manufacture of Millimeter-Scale 3D Transformers for RF-IC
Authors: Li Haiwang , Zhu Kaiyun , Xu Tiantong , Lei Kaibo , Xia Jingchao
Published: December 2022

The development of radio-frequency integrated circuits (RF-IC) necessitates higher requirements for the size of microtransformers. This paper describes millimeter-scale 3D transformers in millimeter-scale, solenoidal, and toroidal transformers manufactured using Micro-electromechanical Systems (MEMS). Two through-silicon via (TSV) copper coils with a high aspect ratio are precisely interleaved on a reserved air core (magnet core cavity) with a vertical height of over 1 mm because of the thickness of the substrate, which increases the performance while reducing the footprint. The effects of the wire width, coil turns, magnetic core, and substrate on the performance of the two transformers are discussed through numerical simulations. When an air core is present, solenoidal transformers are better than toroidal transformers in terms of performance and footprint; however, the gap decreases when the size is reduced. Additionally, the magnetic core significantly improves the performance of the toroidal transformer compared to that of the solenoid. Thus, the toroidal transformer has a higher potential for further size reduction. The two types of transformers were then manufactured completely using MEMS and electroplating. This paper discusses the influence of various parameters on millimeter-scale 3D transformers and realizes processing in silicon, which provides the foundation for integrating transformers in a chip.
Free-Form Surface Partitioning and Simulation Verification Based on Surface Curvature
Authors: Liu Hongwei , Zhang Enzhong , Sun Ruiyang , Gao Wenhui , Fu Zheng
Published: December 2022

To address the problem of low overall machining efficiency of free-form surfaces and difficulty in ensuring machining quality, this paper proposes a MATLAB-based free-form surface division method. The surface division is divided into two stages: Partition area identification and area boundary determination. In the first stage, the free-form surface is roughly divided into convex, concave, and saddle regions according to the curvature of the surface, and then the regions are subdivided based on the fuzzy c-means clustering algorithm. In the second stage, according to the clustering results, the Voronoi diagram algorithm is used to finally determine the boundary of the surface patch. We used NURBS to describe free-form surfaces and edit a set of MATLAB programs to realize the division of surfaces. The proposed method can easily and quickly divide the surface area, and the simulation results show that the proposed method can shorten machining time by 36% compared with the traditional machining method. It is proved that the method is practical and can effectively improve the machining efficiency and quality of complex surfaces.