bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Porous Oxygen-Doped g-C3N4 with the Different Precursors for Excellent Photocatalytic Activities under Visible Light
Authors: Zhang Jiajing , Zheng Yongjie , Zheng Heshan , Jing Tao , Zhao Yunpeng , Tian Jingzhi
Published: February 2022

Antibiotic contamination has received widespread attention globally. In this work, the oxygen-doped porous graphite carbonitride (g-C3N4) was prepared with urea and ammonium oxalate (CNUC) or urea and glycine (CNUG) as precursors by thermal polymerization. Using bisphenol A (BPA) as a probe and CNUC or CNUG as photocatalysts, the removal performance test was carried out. Meanwhile, all prepared photocatalysts were characterized by XRD, FT-IR, SEM, TEM, XPS, UV-Vis DRS, PL and EIS. Under visible light irradiation, both CNUC and CNUG exhibited about seven and five times greater photocatalytic activity than that of pure g-C3N4, respectively. The radical capture experiments verified that superoxide radicals (•O2−) and holes (h+) were the main active species in the photocatalytic degradation of BPA by CNUC, and the possible photocatalytic mechanism of CNUC was proposed. In addition, all these results indicate that CNUC catalyst can effectually inhibit the photocorrosion and keep superior stability. The proposed technique provides a prospective approach to develop nonmetal-modified photocatalysts for future applications.
Dissolution of Portlandite in Pure Water: Part 1 Molecular Dynamics (MD) Approach
Authors: Salah Uddin Khondakar , Izadifar Mohammadreza , Ukrainczyk Neven , Koenders Eduardus , Middendorf Bernhard
Published: February 2022

The current contribution proposes a multi-scale bridging modeling approach for the dissolution of crystals to connect the atomistic scale to the (sub-) micro-scale. This is demonstrated in the example of dissolution of portlandite, as a relatively simple benchmarking example for cementitious materials. Moreover, dissolution kinetics is also important for other industrial processes, e.g., acid gas absorption and pH control. In this work, the biased molecular dynamics (metadynamics) coupled with reactive force field is employed to calculate the reaction path as a free energy surface of calcium dissolution at 298 K in water from the different crystal facets of portlandite. It is also explained why the reactivity of the (010), (100), and (11¯0) crystal facet is higher compared to the (001) facet. In addition, the influence of neighboring Ca crystal sites arrangements on the atomistic dissolution rates is explained as necessary scenarios for the upscaling. The calculated rate constants of all atomistic reaction scenarios provided an input catalog ready to be used in an upscaling kinetic Monte Carlo (KMC) approach.
Hydrazine Hydrate Induced Three-Dimensional Interconnected Porous Flower-like 3D-NiCo-SDBS-LDH Microspheres for High-Performance Supercapacitor
Authors: Zhong Liping , Yan Zumiao , Wang Hai , Wang Linjiang
Published: February 2022

Porous structure and surface defects are important to improve the performance of supercapacitors. In this study, a facile pathway was developed for high-performance supercapacitors, which can produce transition metal hydroxides (LDHs) with abundant porous structure and surface defects. The NiCo-SDBS-LDH was prepared by one-step hydrothermal reaction using sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate (SDBS) as anionic surfactant. And then, three dimensional (3D) interconnected porous flower-like 3D-NiCo-SDBS-LDH microspheres were designed and synthesized using the gas-phase hydrazine hydrate reduction method. Results showed that the hydrazine hydrate reduction not only introduces a large number of pores into 3D-NiCo-SDBS-LDH microspheres and causes the formation of oxygen vacancies, but it also roughens the surface of the microspheres. All these changes contribute to the enhancement of electrochemical activity of 3D-NiCo-SDBS-LDH; the NiCo-SDBS-LDH electrode after hydrazine hydrate treatment (3D-NiCo-SDBS-LDH) exhibits a higher specific capacitance of 1148 F·g−1 at 1 A·g−1 (about 1.46 times larger than that of NiCo-SDBS-LDH) and excellent long cycle life with 94% retention after 4000 cycles. Moreover, the assembled 3D-NiCo-SDBS-LDH//AC (active carbon) asymmetric supercapacitor (ASC) achieves remarkable energy density of 73.14 W h·kg−1 at 800 W·kg−1 and long-term cycling stability of 95.5% retention for up to 10,000 cycles. The outstanding electrochemical performance can be attributed to the synergy between the rich porous structure and the roughened surface that has been created by the hydrazine hydrate treatment.
The Effect of an External Magnetic Field on the Electrocatalytic Activity of Heat-Treated Cyanometallate Complexes towards the Oxygen Reduction Reaction in an Alkaline Medium
Authors: Zakrzewska Barbara , Adamczyk Lidia , Marcinek Marek , Miecznikowski Krzysztof
Published: February 2022

This work focuses on the development of an electrocatalytic material by annealing a composite of a transition metal coordination material, iron hexacyanoferrate (Prussian blue) immobilized on carboxylic-acid-functionalized reduced graphene oxide. Pyrolysis at 500 °C under a nitrogen atmosphere formed nanoporous core–shell structures with efficient activity, which mostly included iron carbide species capable of participating in the oxygen reduction reaction in alkaline media. The physicochemical properties of the iron-based catalyst were elucidated using transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Mössbauer spectroscopy, and various electrochemical techniques, such as cyclic voltammetry and rotating ring–disk electrode (RRDE) voltammetry. To improve the electroreduction of oxygen over the studied catalytic material, an external magnetic field was utilized, which positively shifted the potential by ca. 20 mV. The formation of undesirable intermediate peroxide species was decreased compared with the ORR measurements without an external magnetic field.
Photoluminescence Spectroscopy of the InAsSb-Based p-i-n Heterostructure
Authors: Smołka Tristan , Motyka Marcin , Romanov Vyacheslav Vital’evich , Moiseev Konstantin Dmitrievich
Published: February 2022

Photoluminescence in a double heterostructure based on a ternary InAsSb solid solution was observed in the mid-infrared range of 2.5–4 μm. A range of compositions of the InAs1−ySby ternary solid solution has been established, where the energy resonance between the band gap and the splitting-off band in the valence band of the semiconductor can be achieved. Due to the impact of nonradiative Auger recombination processes, different temperature dependence of photoluminescence intensity was found for the barrier layer and the narrow-gap active region, respectively. It was shown that efficient high-temperature photoluminescence can be achieved by suppressing the nonradiative Auger recombination (CHHS) process. Increased temperature, for which the energy gap is lower than the split-off band energy, leads to violation of the resonance condition in narrow gap antimonide compounds, which explains the observed phenomenon. This finding might influence future application of the investigated material systems in mid-infrared emitters used for, e.g., optical gas sensing.
Adaptive Adjustment Strategy for Walking Characteristics of Single-Legged Exoskeleton Robots
Authors: Lu Zhiguo , Ye Dehong , Chen Qingcai , Liu Chong , Dong Hu , Cheng Dexin
Published: February 2022

In order to achieve the normal walking of hemiplegic patients, this paper proposes a single-legged exoskeleton robot according to the bionics principle, and presents an adaptive adjustment strategy for walking characteristics. The least square regression analysis is used to fit the angle data of healthy leg joints by cubic polynomials, and then the parametric design of the fitted curve is carried out to obtain the influence of the user’s stride frequency and stride length on the joint angle, so that the gait of the exoskeleton can be adjusted in real time according to the stride length and stride frequency of the healthy leg to realize normal walking. In order to verify the effectiveness of the adaptive adjustment strategy proposed in this paper, the angle of leg joints under normal gait is collected in advance. In addition, an adult male is chosen as the subject to walk on the horizontal ground wearing the single-legged exoskeleton as the experiment. The experimental results show that the designed exoskeleton is reasonable, and the adaptive adjustment strategy proposed in this paper can make the exoskeleton adapt well and follow the gait of healthy legs to achieve a more natural walking state.
Effect of Global and Local Refutation Mechanism on Rumor Propagation in Heterogeneous Network
Authors: Huo Liang’an , Zhang Yuqing
Published: February 2022

In the process of rumors propagation, the behavior of individuals to propagation or refutation is not only influenced by the surrounding global environment but also the local environment. In this paper, a modified rumor propagation model is proposed considering the global and local effects of the rumor refutation mechanism and the activity rate of individuals in a heterogeneous network, and the dynamics process of the rumor propagation is derived by using the mean-field equation. Combining theoretical proving and simulation analysis, it shows that the critical threshold of rumor propagation has a great relationship with individual activity rates and global and local effects of the rumor refutation mechanism. The greater the government’s efforts to refute rumors, the lower the critical threshold of rumor propagation and the smaller the final rumor size. While relatively, people are much more likely to believe the global rumor refutation information taken with official information, local rumor refutation information has little influence on rumor propagation.
A Multi-Scale Network with Percolation Model to Describe the Spreading of Forest Fires
Authors: Perestrelo Sara Aleixo , Grácio Maria Clara , Ribeiro Nuno de Almeida , Lopes Luís Mário
Published: February 2022

Forest fires have been a major threat to forest ecosystems and its biodiversity, as well as the environment in general, particularly in the Mediterranean regions. To mitigate fire spreading, this study aims at finding a fire-break solution for territories prone to fire occurrence. To the effect, here follows a model to map and predict phase transitions in fire regimes (spanning fires vs. penetrating fires) based on terrain morphology. The structure consists of a 2-scale network using site percolation and SIR epidemiology rules in a cellular automata to model local fire Dynamics. The target area for the application is the region of Serra de Ossa in Portugal, due to its wildfire incidence. The study considers the cases for a Moore neighbourhood of warm cells of radius 1 and 2 and also considers a heterogeneous terrain with 3 classes of vegetation. Phase transitions are found for different combinations of fire risk for each of these classes and use these values to parametrize the resulting landscape network.
Differential Geometry of Submanifolds in Complex Space Forms Involving δ-Invariants
Authors: Chen Bang-Yen , Blaga Adara M. , Vîlcu Gabriel-Eduard
Published: February 2022

One of the fundamental problems in the theory of submanifolds is to establish optimal relationships between intrinsic and extrinsic invariants for submanifolds. In order to establish such relations, the first author introduced in the 1990s the notion of δ-invariants for Riemannian manifolds, which are different in nature from the classical curvature invariants. The earlier results on δ-invariants and their applications have been summarized in the first author’s book published in 2011 Pseudo-Riemannian Geometry, δ-Invariants and Applications (ISBN: 978-981-4329-63-7). In this survey, we present a comprehensive account of the development of the differential geometry of submanifolds in complex space forms involving the δ-invariants done mostly after the publication of the book.
Resolution of Initial Value Problems of Ordinary Differential Equations Systems
Authors: Arnau i Córdoba Josep Vicent , Fullana i Alfonso Màrius Josep
Published: February 2022

In this work, we present some techniques applicable to Initial Value Problems when solving a System of Ordinary Differential Equations (ODE). Such techniques should be used when applying adaptive step-size numerical methods. In our case, a Runge-Kutta-Fehlberg algorithm (RKF45) has been employed, but the procedure presented here can also be applied to other adaptive methods, such as N-body problems, as AP3M or similar ones. By doing so, catastrophic cancellations were eliminated. A mathematical optimization was carried out by introducing the objective function in the ODE System (ODES). Resizing of local errors was also utilised in order to adress the problem. This resize implies the use of certain variables to adjust the integration step while the other variables are used as parameters to determine the coefficients of the ODE system. This resize was executed by using the asymptotic solution of this system. The change of variables is necessary to guarantee the stability of the integration. Therefore, the linearization of the ODES is possible and can be used as a powerful control test. All these tools are applied to a physical problem. The example we present here is the effective numerical resolution of Lemaitre-Tolman-Bondi space-time solutions of Einstein Equations.
Applications of (M,N)-Lucas Polynomials on a Certain Family of Bi-Univalent Functions
Authors: Wanas Abbas Kareem , Cotîrlă Luminiţa-Ioana
Published: February 2022

In the current article, making use of certain operator, we initiate and explore a certain family WΣ(λ,γ,σ,δ,α,β,p,q;h) of holomorphic and bi-univalent functions in the open unit disk D. We establish upper bounds for the initial Taylor–Maclaurin coefficients and the Fekete–Szegö type inequality for functions in this family.
Relationship between Recovery from COVID-19-Induced Smell Loss and General and Oral Health Factors
Authors: Catton Georgia , Gardner Alexander
Published: February 2022

Background and Objectives: Loss of smell is one of the strongest predictors of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and can persist long after other symptoms have resolved. “Long” cases (>28 days) of smell dysfunction present future challenges to medical and dental professionals, as there is a lack of evidence on the causes and any exacerbating or relieving factors. This study aimed to explore the persistence of COVID-19-induced smell loss and association with physical, lifestyle and oral health factors. Materials and Methods: This study was a cross-sectional survey of 235 participants. Recovery of smell was explored, comparing rapid recovery (≤28 days) with prolonged recovery (>28 days). Associative factors included age, sex, illness severity, diet, BMI, vitamin D supplementation, antidepressants, alcohol use, smoking, brushing frequency, flossing, missing teeth, appliances and number of dental restorations. Results: Smell loss showed 87% resolution within 30 days. Prolonged smell loss was significantly associated with older age (mean ± 95%, CI = 31.53 ± 1.36 years for rapid recovery vs. mean ± 95%, CI = 36.0 ± 3 years for prolonged recovery, p = 0.003) and increased self-reported illness severity (mean ± 95%, CI = 4.39 ± 0.27 for rapid recovery vs. 5.01 ± 0.54 for prolonged recovery, p = 0.016). Fisher’s exact test revealed flossing was associated with rapid recovery, with flossers comprising 75% of the rapid-recovery group, compared to 56% in the prolonged-recovery group (odds ratio ± 95%, CI = 2.26 (1.23–4.15), p = 0.01). All other factors were not significantly associated (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Increased age and illness severity were associated with prolonged smell recovery. Use of floss was the only modifiable factor associated with rapid recovery of smell loss. As 87% of cases resolve within 30 days, future studies may benefit from targeted recruitment of individuals experiencing prolonged sense loss. This would increase statistical confidence when declaring no association with the other factors assessed, avoiding type II errors.
Effects of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation on Pain and Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy in Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review
Authors: Püsküllüoğlu Mirosława , Tomaszewski Krzysztof A. , Grela-Wojewoda Aleksandra , Pacholczak-Madej Renata , Ebner Florian
Published: February 2022

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is the usage of a mild electrical current through electrodes that stimulate nerves. Patients with malignancies experience pain and chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy. A systematic review was performed to find research evaluating the effect of TENS on these two common symptoms decreasing the quality of life in cancer patients. PubMed, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and EMBASE were searched. Original studies, namely randomized controlled trials, quasi-randomized controlled trials and controlled clinical trials, published between April 2007 and May 2020, were considered. The quality of the selected studies was assessed. Seven papers were incorporated in a qualitative synthesis, with 260 patients in total. The studies varied in terms of design, populations, endpoints, quality, treatment duration, procedures and follow-up period. Based on the results, no strict recommendations concerning TENS usage in the cancer patient population could be issued. However, the existing evidence allows us to state that TENS is a safe procedure that may be self-administered by the patients with malignancy in an attempt to relieve different types of pain. There is a need for multi-center, randomized clinical trials with a good methodological design and adequate sample size.
A Systematic Review of Candidate Genes for Major Depression
Authors: Norkeviciene Audrone , Gocentiene Romena , Sestokaite Agne , Sabaliauskaite Rasa , Dabkeviciene Daiva , Jarmalaite Sonata , Bulotiene Giedre
Published: February 2022

Background and Objectives: The aim of this systematic review was to analyse which candidate genes were examined in genetic association studies and their association with major depressive disorder (MDD). Materials and Methods: We searched PUBMED for relevant studies published between 1 July 2012 and 31 March 2019, using combinations of keywords: “major depressive disorder” OR “major depression” AND “gene candidate”, “major depressive disorder” OR “major depression” AND “polymorphism”. Synthesis focused on assessing the likelihood of bias and investigating factors that may explain differences between the results of studies. For selected gene list after literature overview, functional enrichment analysis and gene ontology term enrichment analysis were conducted. Results: 141 studies were included in the qualitative review of gene association studies focusing on MDD. 86 studies declared significant results (p < 0.05) for 172 SNPs in 85 genes. The 13 SNPs associations were confirmed by at least two studies. The 18 genetic polymorphism associations were confirmed in both the previous and this systematic analysis by at least one study. The majority of the studies (68.79 %) did not use or describe power analysis, which may have had an impact over the significance of their results. Almost a third of studies (N = 54) were conducted in Chinese Han population. Conclusion: Unfortunately, there is still insufficient data on the links between genes and depression. Despite the reported genetic associations, most studies were lacking in statistical power analysis, research samples were small, and most gene polymorphisms have been confirmed in only one study. Further genetic research with larger research samples is needed to discern whether the relationship is random or causal. Summations: This systematic review had summarized all reported genetic associations and has highlighted the genetic associations that have been replicated. Limitations: Unfortunately, most gene polymorphisms have been confirmed only once, so further studies are warranted for replicating these genetic associations. In addition, most studies included a small number of MDD cases that could be indicative for false positive. Considering that polymorphism loci and associations with MDD is also vastly dependent on interpersonal variation, extensive studies of gene interaction pathways could provide more answers to the complexity of MDD.
Socio-Demographic, Professional and Institutional Characteristics That Make Romanian Doctors More Prone to Malpractice Complaints
Authors: Hanganu Bianca , Iorga Magdalena , Pop Lavinia Maria , Ioan Beatrice Gabriela
Published: February 2022

Background and objectives: Medical malpractice is a phenomenon that shadows current medical practice, the number of complaints following an upward trend worldwide. The background for complaints is related both to the doctor and medical practice in general, as well as to the patient. The aim of this study was to identify a profile of the Romanian doctors who are more prone to receiving complaints, by analyzing the socio-demographic, professional and institutional characteristics. Materials and Methods: We conducted a quantitative, prospective research, the data being collected using a newly developed questionnaire. Data analysis was performed with the IBM Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS, version 24). We used counts, percentages, means and standard deviation, and comparative and correlational analyses. A logistic regression model was applied to select a statistically best-fit model to identify independent predictors for receiving complaints; a Hosmer–Lemeshow test was used to check the performance of the prediction model. Results: The study group consisted of 1684 doctors, of which 16.1% had been involved in a malpractice complaint. Results showed that men, senior doctors from surgical specialties who perform a greater number of on-call shifts, those who work in regional or county hospitals, those who have greater fear of receiving complaints and those whose life partner is a doctor with the same specialty are more prone to receiving complaints. Conclusions: The profile identified by the present research underlines the main characteristics that could be targeted with specific measures in order to prevent the ongoing increase of malpractice complaints in Romania.
Special Issue “Advanced Refractory Alloys”: Metals, MDPI
Authors: Senkov Oleg N. , Tsakiropoulos Panagiotis (Panos) , Couzinié Jean-Philippe
Published: February 2022

Metallic materials with extreme and often unusual combinations of properties are always in high demand in the competitive world market [...]
Effect of Hydrogen Charging on the Stress Corrosion Cracking Behavior of X70 Steel in Simulated Deep Seawater Environment
Authors: Yang Xiaojia , Sun Feilong , Li Qing , Zhu Renzheng , Liu Zhiyong , Du Cuiwei , Li Xiaogang
Published: February 2022

The effects of hydrogen charging on the electrochemical and stress corrosion cracking (SCC) behavior of X70 steel in a simulated deep seawater environment were investigated by using electrochemical measurements, slow strain rate tensile (SSRT) tests, and corrosion morphology characterization through SEM. The results showed that the concentrations of the adsorbed hydrogen in X70 steel after precharging under different hydrostatic pressures increased gradually and tended to be steady with the charging time. High hydrostatic pressures promoted the hydrogen permeation of X70 pipeline steel by promoting the permeating rate and quantity. The SCC susceptibility of X70 steel decreased first and then increased with the hydrogen-charging current density. The area reduction loss (Iψ) and true strain loss (Iε) exhibited the lowest SCC susceptibility at the 25 mA/cm2 hydrogen-precharging current density. The elongation rate loss (Iδ) exhibited the lowest SCC susceptibility at the 50 mA/cm2 hydrogen-precharging current density.
Combined Plasma and Urinary Metabolomics Uncover Metabolic Perturbations Associated with Severe Respiratory Syncytial Viral Infection and Future Development of Asthma in Infant Patients
Authors: Teoh Shao Thing , Leimanis-Laurens Mara L. , Comstock Sarah S. , Winters John W. , Vandenbosch Nikita L. , Prokop Jeremy W. , Bachmann André S. , Lunt Sophia Y. , Rajasekaran Surender
Published: February 2022

A large percentage of infants develop viral bronchiolitis needing medical intervention and often develop further airway disease such as asthma. To characterize metabolic perturbations in acute respiratory syncytial viral (RSV) bronchiolitis, we compared metabolomic profiles of moderate and severe RSV patients versus sedation controls. RSV patients were classified as moderate or severe based on the need for invasive mechanical ventilation. Whole blood and urine samples were collected at two time points (baseline and 72 h). Plasma and urinary metabolites were extracted in cold methanol and analyzed by liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), and data from the two biofluids were combined for multivariate data analysis. Metabolite profiles were clustered according to severity, characterized by unique metabolic changes in both plasma and urine. Plasma metabolites that correlated with severity included intermediates in the sialic acid biosynthesis, while urinary metabolites included citrate as well as multiple nucleotides. Furthermore, metabolomic profiles were predictive of future development of asthma, with urinary metabolites exhibiting higher predictive power than plasma. These metabolites may offer unique insights into the pathology of RSV bronchiolitis and may be useful in identifying patients at risk for developing asthma.
Recent Advances of Interface Exciplex in Organic Light-Emitting Diodes
Authors: Shao Jianhua , Chen Cong , Zhao Wencheng , Zhang Erdong , Ma Wenjie , Sun Yuanping , Chen Ping , Sheng Ren
Published: February 2022

The interface exciplex system is a promising technology for reaching organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) with low turn-on voltages, high efficiencies and long lifetimes due to its unique virtue of barrier-free charge transport, well-confined recombination region, and thermally activated delayed fluorescence characteristics. In this review, we firstly illustrate the mechanism frameworks and superiorities of the interface exciplex system. We then summarize the primary applications of interface exciplex systems fabricated by doping and doping-free technologies. The operation mechanisms of these OLEDs are emphasized briefly. In addition, various novel strategies for further improving the performances of interface exciplex-based devices are demonstrated. We believe this review will give a promising perspective and attract researchers to further develop this technology in the future.
Ten-Week Sucralose Consumption Induces Gut Dysbiosis and Altered Glucose and Insulin Levels in Healthy Young Adults
Authors: Méndez-García Lucía A. , Bueno-Hernández Nallely , Cid-Soto Miguel A. , De León Karen L. , Mendoza-Martínez Viridiana M. , Espinosa-Flores Aranza J. , Carrero-Aguirre Miguel , Esquivel-Velázquez Marcela , León-Hernández Mireya , Viurcos-Sanabria Rebeca , Ruíz-Barranco Alejandra , Cota-Arce Julián M. , Álvarez-Lee Angélica , De León-Nava Marco A. , Meléndez Guillermo , Escobedo Galileo
Published: February 2022

Sucralose consumption alters microbiome and carbohydrate metabolism in mouse models. However, there are no conclusive studies in humans. Our goals were to examine the effect of sucralose consumption on the intestinal abundance of bacterial species belonging to Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Firmicutes and explore potential associations between microbiome profiles and glucose and insulin blood levels in healthy young adults. In this open-label clinical trial, volunteers randomly drank water, as a control (n = 20), or 48 mg sucralose (n = 20), every day for ten weeks. At the beginning and the end of the study, participants were subjected to an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) to measure serum glucose and insulin every 15 min for 3 h and provided fecal samples to assess gut microbiota using a quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Sucralose intake altered the abundance of Firmicutes without affecting Actinobacteria or Bacteroidetes. Two-way ANOVA revealed that volunteers drinking sucralose for ten weeks showed a 3-fold increase in Blautia coccoides and a 0.66-fold decrease in Lactobacillus acidophilus compared to the controls. Sucralose consumption increased serum insulin and the area under the glucose curve compared to water. Long-term sucralose ingestion induces gut dysbiosis associated with altered insulin and glucose levels during an OGTT.
Biochar Addition Inhibits Nitrification by Shifting Community Structure of Ammonia-Oxidizing Microorganisms in Salt-Affected Irrigation-Silting Soil
Authors: Yao Rong-Jiang , Li Hong-Qiang , Yang Jing-Song , Wang Xiang-Ping , Xie Wen-Ping , Zhang Xing
Published: February 2022

Biochar has been widely recognized as an effective and eco-friendly ameliorant for saline soils, but information about the mechanism of how biochar influences nitrification in salt-affected agroecosystem remains fragmented. An incubation experiment was performed on the salt-affected soil collected from a three-consecutive-year experiment at biochar application gradients of 7.5 t⋅ha−1, 15 t⋅ha−1 and 30⋅t ha−1 and under nitrogen (N) fertilization. Responses of the nitrification rate (NR), numbers of ammonia monooxygenase (amoA) gene copies, and community structures of ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB) and archaea (AOA) to biochar application were investigated. The results indicated that, under N fertilization, the NR and numbers of amoA-AOB and amoA-AOA gene copies negatively responded to biochar addition. Biochar application increased the community diversity of AOB but decreased that of AOA. Biochar addition and N fertilization shifted the AOB community from Nitrosospira-dominated to Nitrosospira and Nitrosomonas-dominated, and altered the AOA community from Nitrososphaera-dominated to Nitrososphaera and Nitrosopumilus-dominated. The relative abundance of Nitrosospira, Nitrosomonas and Nitrosopumilus decreased, and that of Nitrosovibrio and Nitrososphaera increased with biochar application rate. Soil SOC, pH and NO3−-N explained 87.1% of the variation in the AOB community, and 78.1% of the variation in the AOA community was explanatory by soil pH and SOC. The SOC and NO3−-N influenced NR through Nitrosovibrio, Nitrosomonas, Norank_c_environmental_samples_p_Crenarchaeota and amoA-AOB and amoA-AOA gene abundance. Therefore, biochar addition inhibited nitrification in salt-affected irrigation-silting soil by shifting the community structures of AOB and AOA and reducing the relative abundance of dominant functional ammonia-oxidizers, such as Nitrosospira, Nitrosomonas and Nitrosopumilus.
Transcriptomic Analysis of Degradative Pathways for Azo Dye Acid Blue 113 in Sphingomonas melonis B-2 from the Dye Wastewater Treatment Process
Authors: Santhanarajan Aalfin-Emmanuel , Rhee Chaeyoung , Sul Woo Jun , Yoo Keunje , Seong Hoon Je , Kim Hong-Gi , Koh Sung-Cheol
Published: February 2022

Background: Acid Blue 113 (AB113) is a typical azo dye, and the resulting wastewater is toxic and difficult to remove. Methods: The experimental culture was set up for the biodegradation of the azo dye AB113, and the cell growth and dye decolorization were monitored. Transcriptome sequencing was performed in the presence and absence of AB113 treatment. The key pathways and enzymes involved in AB113 degradation were found through pathway analysis and enrichment software (GO, EggNog and KEGG). Results: S. melonis B-2 achieved more than 80% decolorization within 24 h (50 and 100 mg/L dye). There was a positive relationship between cell growth and the azo dye degradation rate. The expression level of enzymes involved in benzoate and naphthalene degradation pathways (NADH quinone oxidoreductase, N-acetyltransferase and aromatic ring-hydroxylating dioxygenase) increased significantly after the treatment of AB113. Conclusions: Benzoate and naphthalene degradation pathways were the key pathways for AB113 degradation. NADH quinone oxidoreductase, N-acetyltransferase, aromatic ring-hydroxylating dioxygenase and CYP450 were the key enzymes for AB113 degradation. This study provides evidence for the process of AB113 biodegradation at the molecular and biochemical level that will be useful in monitoring the dye wastewater treatment process at the full-scale treatment.
Bacterial Biofilm Formation on Nano-Copper Added PLA Suited for 3D Printed Face Masks
Authors: Kiel Annika , Kaltschmidt Bernhard Peter , Asghari Ehsan , Hütten Andreas , Kaltschmidt Barbara , Kaltschmidt Christian
Published: February 2022

The COVID-19 Pandemic leads to an increased worldwide demand for personal protection equipment in the medical field, such as face masks. New approaches to satisfy this demand have been developed, and one example is the use of 3D printing face masks. The reusable 3D printed mask may also have a positive effect on the environment due to decreased littering. However, the microbial load on the 3D printed objects is often disregarded. Here we analyze the biofilm formation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli on suspected antimicrobial Plactive™ PLA 3D printing filaments and non-antimicrobial Giantarm™ PLA. To characterize the biofilm-forming potential scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Confocal scanning electron microscopy (CLSM) and colony-forming unit assays (CFU) were performed. Attached cells could be observed on all tested 3D printing materials. Gram-negative strains P. aeruginosa and E. coli reveal a strong uniform growth independent of the tested 3D filament (for P. aeruginosa even with stressed induced growth reaction by Plactive™). Only Gram-positive S. aureus shows strong growth reduction on Plactive™. These results suggest that the postulated antimicrobial Plactive™ PLA does not affect Gram-negative bacteria species. These results indicate that reusable masks, while better for our environment, may pose another health risk.
Research Progress on Typical Quaternary Ammonium Salt Polymers
Authors: Fu Xingqin , Zhang Yuejun , Jia Xu , Wang Yongji , Chen Tingting
Published: February 2022

Quaternary ammonium salt polymers, a kind of polyelectrolyte with a quaternary ammonium group, are widely used in traditional and emerging industries due to their good water-solubility, adjustable cationicity and molecular weight, high efficiency and nontoxicity. In this paper, firstly, the properties and several synthesis methods of typical quaternary ammonium salt monomers were introduced. Secondly, the research progress on the synthesis of polymers was summarized from the perspective of obtaining products with high molecular weight, narrow molecular weight distribution and high monomer conversion, and special functional polymers. Thirdly, the relationships between the structures and properties of the polymer were analyzed from the perspectives of molecular weight, charge density, structural stability, and microstructural regulation of the polymer chain unit. Fourthly, typical examples of quaternary ammonium salt polymers in the application fields of water treatment, daily chemicals, petroleum exploitation, papermaking, and textile printing and dyeing were listed. Finally, constructive suggestions were put forward on developing quaternary ammonium salt polymers with high molecular weights, strengthening the research on the relationships between the structures and their properties and pinpointing relevant application fields.
Multi-Year Study of the Chemical and Sensory Effects of Microwave-Assisted Extraction of Musts and Stems in Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah Wines from the Central Coast of California
Authors: Casassa L. Federico , Gannett Paul A. , Steele Nicholas B. , Huff Robert
Published: February 2022

Microwave technology (MW) was applied to musts and stems over three consecutive vintages in Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah wines from California (USA). Stems were added to musts at a rate of 50 and 100% (50% Stems and 100% Stems), either as untreated or after MW (50% MW Stems and 100% MW Stems). Stem additions lowered ethanol (up to 1.15% v/v reduction), but increased pH (up to 0.16 units) and the tannin content of the wines. In 2016, tannins increased by 103% (100% Stems), and 124% (100% MW Stems). In 2017, tannins increased by 39% in stem-added Merlot wines and by 63% (100% Stems) and 85% (100% MW Stems) in Syrah wines. In 2018, tannins in Syrah wines increased by 250% (100% MW Stems) and by 743% (100% Stems). Wines made with 50% Stems exhibited intermediate tannin contents. Must MW increased flavonols (up to 278% in Syrah wines), monoglucosylated, acylated and anthocyanin-derived pigments. Stem additions reduced wine color and polymeric pigment formation in Syrah. Must MW decreased the perception of coarseness and herbaceous flavors in Merlot, whereas stem additions increased herbaceous aromas in Syrah. Despite higher tannin contents in stem-added wines, no concomitant increases in astringency were observed.
Hybrid Cements with ZnO Additions: Hydration, Compressive Strength and Microstructure
Authors: Soto-Felix Magnolia , Baldenebro-Lopez Francisco Javier , Carreño-Gallardo Caleb , Herrera-Ramirez Jose Martin
Published: February 2022

The effect of ZnO has already been studied for Portland cement, but the study of its impact on hybrid pastes is scarce. Thus, in this investigation, the influence of ZnO addition on hydration, compressive strength, microstructure, and structure of hybrid pastes is presented. The analyses were made by setting time tests, compressive strength tests, X-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis with differential scanning calorimetry, and scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The results indicate that the setting time of the cements was delayed up to 39 min with additions of 3 wt% ZnO. Alternatively, the higher values of compressive strength were observed when 0.5 wt% ZnO was added to the cements for all curing days. In addition, no important differences in the microstructure of samples with different additions of ZnO were observed after 28 days of curing. It is expected that the use of ZnO contributes to the delay of the setting time and the increase of the compressive strength without negatively modifying the microstructure of hybrid pastes.
Homo- and Heterogeneous Glycoconjugates on the Basis of N-Glycans and Human Serum Albumin: Synthesis and Biological Evaluation
Authors: Kurbangalieva Almira , Zamalieva Regina , Nasibullin Igor , Yamada Kenshiro , Tanaka Katsunori
Published: February 2022

Neoglycoconjugates mimicking natural compounds and possessing a variety of biological functions are very successful tools for researchers to understand the general mechanisms of many biological processes in living organisms. These substances are characterized by high biotolerance and specificity, with low toxicity. Due to the difficult isolation of individual glycoclusters from biological objects, special interest has been directed toward synthetic analogs. This review is mainly focused on the one-pot, double-click methodology (containing alkyne–azide click cycloaddition with the following 6π-azaelectrocyclization reactions) used in the synthesis of N-glycoconjugates. Homogeneous (including one type of biantennary N-glycan fragments) and heterogeneous (containing two to four types of biantennary N-glycan fragments) glycoclusters on albumin were synthesized via this strategy. A series of cell-, tissue- and animal-based experiments proved glycoclusters to be a very promising class of targeted delivery systems. Depending on the oligosaccharide units combined in the cluster, their amount, and arrangement relative to one another, conjugates can recognize various cells, including cancer cells, with high selectivity. These results open new perspectives for affected tissue visualization and treatment.
Effects of Different Nanocarbon Materials on the Properties of Al/MoO3/NCM Thermite Prepared by Electrostatic Spinning
Authors: Zhang Mi , Ren Hui , Cui Qingzhong , Li Hanjian , Chen Yongjin
Published: February 2022

In order to improve thermal conductivity, energy performance, and combustion performance of the aluminum-containing thermite, nanocarbon materials were added to thermite. Aluminum/molybdenum and trioxide/nanocarbon materials (Al/MoO3/NCM) were fabricated by electrostatic spinning technology. The Al and MoO3 particles of the nAl/MoO3/NCM thermite are much smaller than nitrocellulose (NC); thus, the two components can be better attached to NC fibers. Results on thermal conductivity demonstrated that the addition of NCM can improve the thermal conductivity of Al/MoO3, and the addition of reduced graphene oxide (RGO) has a more significant impact on thermal conductivity. Energy performance analysis results indicated that the energy performance of Al/MoO3/NCM thermite spinning is the best when the value of combustion oxygen equivalent ratio (Φ) is 0.90–1.00. The combustion performance results show that the addition of NCM can significantly increase the combustion rate of thermites, and the addition of RGO improves its combustion rate the most, followed by carbon nanotubes (CNT) and nanoflake graphite (NFG) being the lowest. By changing the shape of the Al/MoO3/NCM charge and the internal composition of the charge, the sensitivity of the agent can be adjusted, and the matching performance and use performance of the electric igniter can be improved.
Trends in Urinary and Blood Cadmium Levels in U.S. Adults with or without Comorbidities, 1999–2018
Authors: Yang Jingli , Lo Kenneth , Yang Aimin
Published: February 2022

Although cadmium (Cd) exposure has been declining in the United States (U.S.) over the years, the level of exposure for people with pre-existing comorbidities is unclear. This study characterized the trends of blood Cd levels (bCd) (n = 44,498) and urinary Cd levels (uCd) (n = 15,107) by pre-existing comorbidities among adults participating in the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. We calculated age- and sex-standardized annual geometric mean (GM) levels, and used aJoinpoint regression model to examine the trends over time. The GM levels of bCd declined from 1999–2000 to 2017–2018 survey cycles (from 0.49 to 0.33 μg/L), while women and current smokers had higher levels. Participants with comorbidities had higher bCd and declined over time: cardiovascular disease (CVD) (0.50 to 0.42 μg/L), hypertension (0.49 to 0.35 μg/L), chronic kidney disease (CKD) (0.54 to 0.37 μg), and cancer (0.57 to 0.38 μg) versus those without these comorbidities. We observed the similar pattern of changes for uCd and participants with CVD, CKD, and cancer had higher levels. To conclude, the trend in urinary and blood Cd levels in U.S adults decreased in the past 20 years, and the levels varied by sex, smoking status, and comorbidities.
Was It Chikungunya? Laboratorial and Clinical Investigations of Cases Occurred during a Triple Arboviruses’ Outbreak in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: de Souza Thiara Manuele Alves , de Lima Raquel Curtinhas , Solórzano Victor Edgar Fiestas , Damasco Paulo Vieira , de Souza Luiz José , Sanchez-Arcila Juan Camilo , Guimarães Gabriel Macedo Costa , Paiva Iury Amâncio , da Rocha Queiroz Lima Monique , de Bruycker-Nogueira Fernanda , Tomé Larissa Cristina Teixeira , Coelho Mariana Rosa Inácio , da Silva Sandro Patroca , de Oliveira-Pinto Luzia Maria , de Azeredo Elzinandes Leal , dos Santos Flavia Barreto
Published: February 2022

The co-circulation of chikungunya virus (CHIKV), dengue virus (DENV) and Zika virus (ZIKV) in Rio de Janeiro (RJ), Brazil, caused a challenging triple epidemic, as they share similar clinical signs and symptoms and geographical distribution. Here, we aimed to investigate the clinical and laboratorial aspects of chikungunya suspected cases assisted in RJ during the 2018 outbreak, focusing on the differential diagnosis with dengue and zika. All suspected cases were submitted to molecular and/or serological differential diagnostic approaches to arboviruses. A total of 242 cases suspected of arbovirus infection were investigated and 73.6% (178/242) were molecular and/or serologically confirmed as chikungunya. In RT-qPCR confirmed cases, cycle threshold (Ct) values ranged from 15.46 to 35.13, with acute cases presenting lower values. Chikungunya cases were mainly in females (64%) and the most frequently affected age group was adults between 46 to 59 years old (27%). Polyarthralgia affected 89% of patients, especially in hands and feet. No dengue virus (DENV) and Zika virus (ZIKV) infections were confirmed by molecular diagnosis, but 9.5% (23/242) had serological evidence of DENV exposure by the detection of specific anti-DENV IgM or NS1, and 42.7% (76/178) of chikungunya positive cases also presented recent DENV exposure reflected by a positive anti-DENV IgM or NS1 result. A significantly higher frequency of arthritis (p = 0.023) and limb edema (p < 0.001) was found on patients with CHIKV monoinfection compared to dengue patients and patients exposed to both viruses. Lastly, phylogenetic analysis showed that the chikungunya cases were caused by the ECSA genotype. Despite the triple arboviruses’ epidemic in the state of RJ, most patients with fever and arthralgia investigated here were diagnosed as chikungunya cases, and the incidence of CHIKV/DENV co-detection was higher than that reported in other studies.
Suppression of Grape White Rot Caused by Coniella vitis Using the Potential Biocontrol Agent Bacillus velezensis GSBZ09
Authors: Yin Xiangtian , Li Tinggang , Jiang Xilong , Tang Xiaoning , Zhang Jiakui , Yuan Lifang , Wei Yanfeng
Published: February 2022

Grape white rot caused by Coniella vitis is prevalent in almost all grapevines worldwide and results in a yield loss of 10–20% annually. Bacillus velezensis is a reputable plant growth-promoting bacterial. Strain GSBZ09 was isolated from grapevine cv. Red Globe (Vitis vinifera) and identified as B. velezensis according to morphological, physiological, biochemical characteristics and a multilocus gene sequence analysis (MLSA) based on six housekeeping genes (16S rRNA, gyrB, rpoD, atpD, rho and pgk). B. velezensis GSBZ09 was screened for antifungal activity against C. vitis under in vitro and in vivo conditions. GSBZ09 presented broad spectrum antifungal activity and produced many extracellular enzymes that remarkably inhibited the mycelial growth and spore germination of C. vitis. Furthermore, GSBZ09 had a high capacity for indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) production, siderophore production, and mineral phosphate solubilization. Pot experiments showed that the application of GSBZ09 significantly decreased the disease index of the grape white rot, directly promoted the growth of grapes, and upregulated defense-related enzymes. Overall, the features of B. velezensis GSBZ09 make it a potential strain for application as a biological control agent against C. vitis.