bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hypoxia-Inducible Factor–Prolyl Hydroxylase Inhibitor Improves Leukocyte Energy Metabolism in Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia
Authors: Schild Yves , Bosserhoff Jonah , Droege Freya , Littwitz-Salomon Elisabeth , Fandrey Joachim , Wrobeln Anna
Published: August 2023

The interplay between hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) and transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) is critical for both inflammation and angiogenesis. In hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT), we have previously observed that impairment of the TGF-β pathway is associated with downregulation of HIF-1α. HIF-1α accumulation is mandatory in situations of altered energy demand, such as during infection or hypoxia, by adjusting cell metabolism. Leukocytes undergo a HIF-1α-dependent switch from aerobic mitochondrial respiration to anaerobic glycolysis (glycolytic switch) after stimulation and during differentiation. We postulate that the decreased HIF-1α accumulation in HHT leads to a clinically observed immunodeficiency in these patients. Examination of HIF-1α and its target genes in freshly isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from HHT patients revealed decreased gene expression and protein levels of HIF-1α and HIF-1α-regulated glycolytic enzymes. Treatment of these cells with the HIF–prolyl hydroxylase inhibitor, Roxadustat, rescued their ability to accumulate HIF-1α protein. Functional analysis of metabolic flux using a Seahorse FX extracellular flux analyzer showed that the extracellular acidification rate (indicator of glycolytic turnover) after Roxadustat treatment was comparable to non-HHT controls, while oxygen consumption (indicator of mitochondrial respiration) was slightly reduced. HIF stabilization may be a potential therapeutic target in HHT patients suffering from infections.
Incidence and Clinical Implications of Anatomical Variations in the Pancreas and Its Ductal System: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Orellana-Donoso Mathias , Milos-Brandenberg Daniel , Benavente-Urtubia Andoni , Guerra-Loyola Javier , Bruna-Mejias Alejandro , Nova-Baeza Pablo , Becerra-Farfán Álvaro , Sepulveda-Loyola Walter , Luque-Bernal Ricardo Miguel , Valenzuela-Fuenzalida Juan José
Published: August 2023

Objective: This systematic review analyzes the anatomical variants in the pancreas and its ductal system to report on their association with pancreatic pathologies. Methods: We conducted a search of the MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, CINAHL, and LILACS databases from their inception to July 2023. The methodological quality was assessed with the Anatomical Quality Assessment (AQUA) tool. Finally, the pooled prevalence was estimated using a random effects model. Results: 55 studies were found that met the eligibility criteria. The overall prevalence of pancreas divisum (PD) was 18% (95% CI = 15–21%). The prevalence of PD associated with pancreatitis was 30% (95% CI = 1–61%). Conclusions: An anatomical variant of the pancreas such as PD may be the cause of bile duct obstruction, resulting in various clinical complications, such as pancreatitis. Hence, knowing this variant is extremely important for surgeons, especially for those who treat the gastroduodenal region.
Interconnectedness between Supply Chain Resilience, Industry 4.0, and Investment
Authors: Al-Banna Adnan , Rana Zaid Ashraf , Yaqot Mohammed , Menezes Brenno
Published: August 2023

Background: As industry and society move towards the second decade of the deluge of advanced technologies of the Industry 4.0 (I4.0) age, introduced circa 2012, it is evident that the global economy continues to grapple with a plethora of ever-intensifying disruptions and vulnerabilities that inflict unexpected and uncontrolled damages on multiple organizational processes. These circumstances demand significant paradigm shifts, placing supply chain resilience (SCR) in the foreground of boardrooms and agendas of executive meetings. Method: This paper presents a bibliometric analysis of selected articles that examine the intricate interplay of I4.0 and SCR under investment constraints. Employing a funnel approach, this study delves deeper into about a hundred papers that were initially selected from a pool of approximately four thousand publications on SCR. The study thoroughly analyzes the interconnection between SCR, I4.0, and investment (INV) while classifying these articles in a structured manner, based on industry type and focus. Results: The primary aim of the paper is to identify trends, gaps, and potential opportunities for future research on the SCR-I4.0-INV interplays. Conclusions: The findings reveal that industries are converging towards the implementation of digital technologies as a strategic move to tackle unexpected, unplanned, and undesired situations. This research illuminates the needs for organizations to prioritize supply chain resilience in the face of disruptions and vulnerabilities while highlighting the potential of digital technologies to enhance their resilience, therefore ensuring sustainable growth.
Research on Internal Flow Field Characteristics of Straight-Groove Texture Using Three-Dimensional Modeling
Authors: Li Yulong , Zhang Zhehao , He Yongyong , Luo Jianbin
Published: August 2023

Surface texture modification is a reasonable strategy for improving the tribological property of friction pairs. The internal flow behavior of the surface texture significantly impacts its performance. In this study, a three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model is constructed to explore the internal flow behavior of the straight-groove texture in the thrust bearing. The influences of the Reynolds number, depth ratio, and area ratio of the straight-groove texture on the internal flow behavior are systematically investigated. Furthermore, the streamline and tribological performance parameters are checked to reveal the mechanism of the groove texture influencing the tribological properties. It is found that the vortex and cavitation significantly affect the tribological performance of textured surfaces under hydrodynamic lubrication. The cavitation and upstream vortex areas increase with the Reynolds number, while the downstream vortex area shows a reverse trend. The increase in depth ratio strengthens the upstream and downstream vortexes while reducing the cavitation area. Additionally, a method is proposed to determine the location of the cavitation within the groove texture. Certain operating conditions create the optimal texture depth ratio and area ratio, which could maximize the load-carrying capacity (LCC) of the oil film, and the friction coefficient is relatively small.
Experimental Study and 3D Optimization of Small-Scale Solar-Powered Radial Turbine Using 3D Printing Technology
Authors: Daabo Ahmed M. , Hassan Ali Abdelhafeez , Bashir Muhammad Anser , Hamza Hudhaifa , Salim Shahad , Koprulu Aisha , Badawy Tawfik , Mahmoud Saad , Al-Dadah Raya
Published: August 2023

Small-Scale Turbines (SSTs) are among the most important energy-extraction-enabling technologies in domestic power production systems. However, owing to centrifugal forces, the high rotating speed of SSTs causes excessive strains in the aerofoil portions of the turbine blades. In this paper, a structural performance analysis is provided by combining Finite Element Methods (FEM) with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). The primary objective was to examine the mechanical stresses of a Small-Scale Radial Turbine (SSRT) constructed utilizing 3D printing technology and a novel plastic material, RGD 525, to construct a SSRT model experimentally. After introducing a suitable turbine aerodynamics model, the turbine assembly and related loads were translated to a structural model. Subsequently, a structural analysis was conducted under various loading situations to determine the influence of different rotational speed values and blade shapes on the stress distribution and displacement. Maximum von Mises and maximum main stresses are significantly affected by both the rotor rotational speed and the working fluid input temperature, according to the findings of this research. The maximum permitted deformation, on the other hand, was more influenced by rotational speed, while the maximum allowable fatigue life was more influenced by rotating speed and fluid intake temperature. Also, the region of the tip shroud in the rotor had greater deflection values of 21% of the blade tip width.
On the Relationship between the Fractal Dimension of Geomagnetic Variations at Altay and the Space Weather Characteristics
Authors: Gvozdarev Alexey , Parovik Roman
Published: August 2023

The fractal dimension of geomagnetic field component variations (horizontal—H, vertical—Z and magnetic declination—D) at the Baigazan magnetic station at Russian Altay, for the period 2011–2013, were calculated using the Higuchi method. The daily variation of Higuchi Fractal Dimension (HFD) for the D, H, Z components of the geomagnetic field were investigated, and its contribution to the variability of HFD was found to be from 30 to 40 percent of the total variance. A correlation analysis of the fractal dimension of the variations of the D, H, Z components with the Auroral Electrojet (AE) index and solar wind characteristics was carried out. Negative correlations with logarithms of the AE-index, interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) strength and solar wind velocity were found. About 25 percent of the HFD variance is controlled by the variability of these characteristics. Pair and partial correlation coefficients for these parameters were calculated for every month of 2011–2013.
Regularization and Inverse Spectral Problems for Differential Operators with Distribution Coefficients
Authors: Bondarenko Natalia P.
Published: August 2023

In this paper, we consider a class of matrix functions that contains regularization matrices of Mirzoev and Shkalikov for differential operators with distribution coefficients of order n≥2. We show that every matrix function of this class is associated with some differential expression. Moreover, we construct the family of associated matrices for a fixed differential expression. Furthermore, our regularization results are applied to inverse spectral theory. We study a new type of inverse spectral problems, which consist of the recovery of distribution coefficients from the spectral data independently of the associated matrix. The uniqueness theorems are proved for the inverse problems by the Weyl–Yurko matrix and by the discrete spectral data. As examples, we consider the cases n=2 and n=4 in more detail.
Distance-Based Knowledge Measure and Entropy for Interval-Valued Intuitionistic Fuzzy Sets
Authors: Suo Chunfeng , Li Xuanchen , Li Yongming
Published: August 2023

The knowledge measure or uncertainty measure for constructing interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy sets has attracted much attention. However, many uncertainty measures are measured by the entropy of interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy sets, which cannot adequately reflect the knowledge of interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy sets. In this paper, we not only extend the axiomatic definition of the knowledge measure of the interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy set to a more general level but also establish a new knowledge measure function complying with the distance function combined with the technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS). Further, we investigate the properties of the proposed knowledge measure based on mathematical analysis and numerical examples. In addition, we create the entropy function by calculating the distance from the interval-valued fuzzy set to the most fuzzy point and prove that it satisfies the axiomatic definition. Finally, the proposed entropy is applied to the multi-attribute group decision-making problem with interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy information. Experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness and practicability of the proposed entropy measure.
Effect of Input Parameters on the Structure and Properties of Castings Obtained via Crystallization under Pressure
Authors: Pastirčák Richard , Brůna Marek , Matejka Marek , Bolibruchová Dana
Published: August 2023

The technology of casting with crystallization under pressure-squeeze casting belongs to unconventional pressure-casting methods. The melt or material in a semi-solid state is pressed under pressure until the casting solidifies completely. The input parameter, whose influence was mainly observed in this paper, is the state of the material entering the filling process. The alloys were in a molten and semi-solid state. The influence of casting thickness from 3.15 mm to 8 mm was also observed. Alloy AlSi7Mg0.3 was used because of the wide solidification interval and the significant influence of pressure during solidification. Consequently, alloy AlSi12 was subjected to experimental work because processing in the semi-solid state is not sufficiently examined for this material. A significant influence of the cooling rate in different cross-sections on the structure and mechanical properties of castings made using squeeze casting technology was confirmed. The difference in mechanical properties was approximately 35% for both eutectic and hypoeutectic alloys. When processed in a semi-solid state, it was confirmed that the network of dendrites has a significant influence on the filling of the mold cavity. The paper also focuses on the effect of input material morphology on the final product properties. The change in morphology was achieved by metallurgical intervention, thermal and technological processing.
Quantification of Hydrogen Flux from Atmospheric Corrosion of Steel Using the Scanning Kelvin Probe Technique
Authors: Vucko Flavien , Helbert Varvara , Nazarov Andrei
Published: August 2023

The atmospheric corrosion of high-strength steels can lead to hydrogen absorption directly linked to hydrogen embrittlement or delayed fracture phenomena. A scanning Kelvin probe (SKP) and electrochemical permeation technique (EPT) were applied to correlate the potential of an oxidized surface with the flux of hydrogen across a thin steel membrane. The side of the membrane opposite the corroding or electrochemically charged area was analyzed. The potential drop in the oxide was calibrated in terms of surface hydrogen activity, and SKP can be applied in situ for the mapping of hydrogen distribution in the corroding metal. A very low flux of hydrogen can be characterized and quantified by SKP, which is typically observed under atmospheric corrosion conditions. Therefore, hydrogen localization that drives steel durability under atmospheric corrosion conditions can be evaluated.
On Structural Sensitivity of Young’s Modulus of Ni-Rich Ti-Ni Alloy
Authors: Ryklina Elena , Murygin Semen , Komarov Victor , Polyakova Kristina , Resnina Natalia , Andreev Vladimir
Published: August 2023

When developing bone implants, Young’s modulus is one of the primary characteristics of the material that should be considered. This study focuses on regulating the modulus of Ti-50.8 at.% Ni alloy by varying the grain/subgrain size as well as the initial structure using subsequent aging at 430 °C for 10 h. After post-deformation annealing (PDA), the temperature dependence of Young’s modulus exhibits a pronounced V-shaped character with a minimum at the onset temperature of the forward martensitic transformation, Ms, regardless of the structure. The grain/subgrain size of B2-austenite strongly affects the modulus magnitude. This effect is ambiguous for a material with a grain size range of 0.13–3 µm and depends on the test temperature. The effect of aging on the modulus reduction depends on the initial structure; it is most pronounced in an alloy with a relatively coarse grain size of 9 µm and brings a decrease of 3.8 times at a temperature of 37 °C. Aging of the initially recrystallized Ni-rich NiTi alloy makes it possible to obtain a вone-like elastic modulus of E = 12–13 GPa at an operating temperature of 37 °C. An ultrafine-grained substructure exhibits the same Young’s modulus values in the low temperature range from −100 to 25 °C.
Tailoring the Microstructure of Laser-Additive-Manufactured Titanium Aluminide Alloys via In Situ Alloying and Parameter Variation
Authors: Polozov Igor , Sokolova Victoria , Gracheva Anna , Popovich Anatoly
Published: August 2023

Titanium aluminide (TiAl) alloys have emerged as promising materials for high-temperature applications due to their unique combination of high-temperature strength, low density, and excellent oxidation resistance. However, the fabrication of TiAl alloys using conventional methods is challenging due to their high melting points and limited ductility. Selective laser melting (SLM), an additive manufacturing technique, offers a viable solution for producing TiAl alloys with intricate geometries and the potential for tailoring their microstructure. This study investigates the effect of in situ copper alloying and multiple laser scans on the microstructure and mechanical properties of TiAl-based alloys fabricated using SLM. The results demonstrate that copper alloying enhances the formation of the α2-Ti3Al phase, refines the microstructure, and improves the mechanical properties of TiAl alloys. Multiple laser scans allow for the creation of distinct microstructural regions within a single component, enabling the tailoring of properties that are suitable for specific operating conditions. The findings provide valuable insights into the fabrication and optimization of TiAl intermetallic alloys with diverse applications.
Evolution of Status of Trace Elements and Metallothioneins in Patients with COVID-19: Relationship with Clinical, Biochemical, and Inflammatory Parameters
Authors: Herrera-Quintana Lourdes , Vázquez-Lorente Héctor , Gamarra-Morales Yenifer , Molina-López Jorge , Planells Elena
Published: August 2023

The inflammatory reaction and pathogenesis of COVID-19 may be modulated by circulating trace elements (Iron (Fe), Zinc (Zn), Copper (Cu), Manganese (Mn)) and Metallothioneins (MTs). Thus, the present study aimed to investigate their relationship with clinical, biochemical, and inflammatory parameters in patients with COVID-19 at the early Intensive Care Unit (ICU) phase. Critically ill patients (n = 86) were monitored from the first day of ICU admission until the third day of stay. Serum samples were used to assess mineral levels via Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) and MT levels via differential pulse voltammetry. Levels of Cu and MTs were significantly decreased after 3 days (p < 0.05), increasing the prevalence of Cu-deficient values from 50% to 65.3% (p = 0.015). Fe and Zn were shown to have a predictive value for mortality and severity. The present study suggests trace element deficiency may be a risk factor during early ICU treatment of COVID-19, as it is related to different biochemical and clinical parameters, indicating a possible beneficial effect of restoring proper levels of these micronutrients.
Could the Urease of the Gut Bacterium Proteus mirabilis Play a Role in the Altered Gut–Brain Talk Associated with Parkinson’s Disease?
Authors: Grahl Matheus V. C. , Andrade Brenda da Silva , Perin Ana Paula A. , Neves Gilda A. , Duarte Laura de Souza , Uberti Augusto Frantz , Hohl Kelvin Siqueira , Follmer Cristian , Carlini Celia Regina
Published: August 2023

Intestinal dysbiosis seems to play a role in neurodegenerative pathologies. Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients have an altered gut microbiota. Moreover, mice treated orally with the gut microbe Proteus mirabilis developed Parkinson’s-like symptoms. Here, the possible involvement of P. mirabilis urease (PMU) and its B subunit (PmUreβ) in the pathogenesis of PD was assessed. Purified proteins were given to mice intraperitoneally (20 μg/animal/day) for one week. Behavioral tests were conducted, and brain homogenates of the treated animals were subjected to immunoassays. After treatment with PMU, the levels of TNF-α and IL-1β were measured in Caco2 cells and cellular permeability was assayed in Hek 293. The proteins were incubated in vitro with α-synuclein and examined via transmission electron microscopy. Our results showed that PMU treatment induced depressive-like behavior in mice. No motor deficits were observed. The brain homogenates had an increased content of caspase-9, while the levels of α-synuclein and tyrosine hydroxylase decreased. PMU increased the pro-inflammatory cytokines and altered the cellular permeability in cultured cells. The urease, but not the PmUreβ, altered the morphology of α-synuclein aggregates in vitro, forming fragmented aggregates. We concluded that PMU promotes pro-inflammatory effects in cultured cells. In vivo, PMU induces neuroinflammation and a depressive-like phenotype compatible with the first stages of PD development.
Genome and Transcriptome Analysis to Elucidate the Biocontrol Mechanism of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens XJ5 against Alternaria solani
Authors: Mu Fan , Chen Xu , Fu Zhenxin , Wang Xue , Guo Jiexin , Zhao Xiaojun , Zhang Baojun
Published: August 2023

Early blight, caused by Alternaria solani, is an important disease affecting tomatoes. Biological control offers an environmentally friendly approach to controlling pathogens. Herein, we identified a B. amyloliquefaciens strain XJ5 and investigated its biocontrol mechanism against A. solani. A. solani growth was significantly inhibited by XJ5, with the inhibition rate of cell-free culture supernatants reaching 82.3%. Furthermore, XJ5 crude protein extracts inhibited conidia germination and altered the mycelial morphology of A. solani. To uncover the potential biocontrol mechanism of XJ5, we analyzed its genome sequence and transcriptome. The genome of XJ5 comprised a 4.16 Mb circular chromosome and two circular plasmids. A total of 13 biosynthetic gene clusters and 127 genes encoding hydrolases were identified, suggestive of the ability of XJ5 to secrete antagonistic secondary metabolites and hydrolases. Transcript analysis revealed 174 differentially expressed genes on exposing A. solani to XJ5 crude protein extracts. The expression of genes related to chitin and mannose synthesis was downregulated, indicating that XJ5 metabolites may impact chitin and mannose synthesis in A. solani. Overall, these findings enhance our understanding of the interactions between B. amyloliquefaciens and phytopathogens and pave the way for the agricultural application of this promising biocontrol agent.
Genome Analysis and Physiology of Pseudomonas sp. Strain OVF7 Degrading Naphthalene and n-Dodecane
Authors: Ivanova Anastasia A. , Sazonova Olesya I. , Zvonarev Anton N. , Delegan Yanina A. , Streletskii Rostislav A. , Shishkina Lidia A. , Bogun Alexander G. , Vetrova Anna A.
Published: August 2023

The complete genome of the naphthalene- and n-alkane-degrading strain Pseudomonas sp. strain OVF7 was collected and analyzed. Clusters of genes encoding enzymes for the degradation of naphthalene and n-alkanes are localized on the chromosome. Based on the Average Nucleotide Identity and digital DNA–DNA Hybridization compared with type strains of the group of fluorescent pseudomonads, the bacterium studied probably belongs to a new species. Using light, fluorescent, and scanning electron microscopy, the ability of the studied bacterium to form biofilms of different architectures when cultured in liquid mineral medium with different carbon sources, including naphthalene and n-dodecane, was demonstrated. When grown on a mixture of naphthalene and n-dodecane, the strain first consumed naphthalene and then n-dodecane. Cultivation of the strain on n-dodecane was characterized by a long adaptation phase, in contrast to cultivation on naphthalene and a mixture of naphthalene and n-dodecane.
Provenance, Sedimentary Environment, Tectonic Setting, and Uranium Mineralization Implications of the Yaojia Formation, SW Songliao Basin, NE China
Authors: Chen Mengya , Nie Fengjun , Xia Fei , Yan Zhaobin , Yang Dongguang
Published: August 2023

The SW Songliao Basin is an extremely significant part of the giant sandstone uranium metallogenic belt in northern China. The Yaojia Formation is the most significant ore-bearing layer in the region. However, the poorly constrained sedimentology of the Yaojia Formation has substantially hindered the understanding of the basin and the exploration of uranium deposits within it. To determine the sedimentology, provenance, and tectonic setting of the Yaojia Formation in the study area, we conducted petrography, whole-rock geochemical analysis, and electron probe research. Based on the results of the study, it appears that the Yaojia Formation sandstone is predominantly composed of lithic sandstone and feldspar lithic sandstone. Uranium exists in two forms: as independent minerals and as adsorption uranium. Pitchblende is the most common independent uranium mineral, with small amounts of coffinite also occurring. The ratios of Sr/Ba, V/(V+Ni), V/Cr, Ni/Co, and (Cu+Mo)/Zn of the samples indicate that the Yaojia Formation was deposited in a sub- to oxygen-rich freshwater environment with a moderately stratified bottom water body and smooth circulation. The geochemical characteristics of the Yaojia Formation sandstones imply that they are primarily derived from felsic igneous rocks in the upper continental crust in active continental margin and continental island arc environments. According to geochemistry and previous detrital zircon U-Pb chronology studies, the Mesozoic and Late Paleozoic felsic igneous rocks of the southern Great Xing’an Mountains are the principal sources of the Yaojia Formation in the SW Songliao Basin. Besides providing sediments for the study area, the uranium-rich felsic igneous rocks in the source areas also represent a long-term, stable, and ideal source of uranium, suggesting substantial potential for uranium exploration in the study area.
Evolution of Contact Metamorphic Rocks in the Zhoukoudian Area: Evidence from Phase Equilibrium Modelling
Authors: Yan Jun , Cui Ying , Liu Xiaoyu
Published: August 2023

The Yanshan intraplate tectonic belt is a tectonic-active area in the central part of the North China Craton that has undergone long-term orogenic evolution. Detailed studies on magmatic activity and metamorphism of this belt are significant for restoring its orogenic thermal evolution process. The Fangshan pluton in the Zhoukoudian area within this tectonic belt is a product of the late Mesozoic Yanshan event. However, there is a lack of detailed research on the metamorphic evolution history of the ancient terrane surrounding the Fangshan pluton subjected to contact thermal metamorphism. To further constrain the metamorphic P–T evolution of contact metamorphism associated with the Fangshan pluton, we collected rock samples in the andalusite–biotite contact metamorphic zone of the Fangshan pluton, and conducted petrographic investigations, geochemical and mineral composition analysis, and phase equilibrium modeling. The phase equilibrium modeling in the MnO–Na2O–CaO–K2O–FeO–MgO–Al2O3–SiO2–H2O–TiO2–O system indicates that the peak mineral assemblages of andalusite–biotite schists are pl + q + mu + bi + and ± kfs + ilm + mt, formed at 550 to 610 °C, 1 to 3.5 kbar, and the peak mineral assemblage of garnet–andalusite–cordierite–biotite schists is gt + pl + q + bi + and + cord + ilm + mt, formed at 580 to 620 °C, 1.5 to 2.1 kbar. Therefore, we believe that the rocks in the andalusite biotite contact metamorphic zone of the Fangshan pluton underwent low pressure and medium temperature metamorphism, with the peak metamorphic conditions of about 550–610 °C, <3.5 kbar. The results show that the rocks in contact with the thermal metamorphic zone were rapidly heated by the heat released by the Fangshan pluton, and after reaching the peak metamorphic temperature, they were cooled down simultaneously with the cooling of the rock mass, defined in a nearly isobaric P–T trajectory.
Ultrafast Dynamics of Extraordinary Optical Transmission through Two-Slit Plasmonic Antenna
Authors: Du Guangqing , Yu Fangrui , Lu Yu , Kai Lin , Chen Caiyi , Yang Qing , Hou Xun , Chen Feng
Published: August 2023

We have theoretically investigated the spatial-temporal dynamics of extraordinary optical transmission (EOT) through a two-slit plasmonic antenna under femtosecond laser dual-beam irradiation. The dynamic interference of the crossed femtosecond laser dual-beam with the transiently excited surface plasmon polariton waves are proposed to characterize the particular spatial-temporal evolutions of EOT. It is revealed that the dynamic EOT can be flexibly switched with tunable symmetry through the respective slit of a two-slit plasmonic antenna by manipulating the phase correlation of the crossed femtosecond laser dual-beam. This is explained as tunable interference dynamics by phase control of surface plasmon polariton waves, allowing the dynamic modulation of EOT at optimized oblique incidences of dual-beams. Furthermore, we have obtained the unobserved traits of symmetry-broken transient spectra of EOT from the respective up- and down-slit of the antenna under crossed femtosecond laser dual-beam irradiation. This study can provide fundamental insights into the ultrafast dynamics of EOT in two-slit plasmonic antennas, which can be helpful to advance a wide range of applications, such as ultrafast plasmonic switch, ultrahigh resolution imaging, the transient amplification of non-linear effects, etc.
Advanced Bioactive Glasses: The Newest Achievements and Breakthroughs in the Area
Authors: Kaou Maroua H. , Furkó Mónika , Balázsi Katalin , Balázsi Csaba
Published: August 2023

Bioactive glasses (BGs) are especially useful materials in soft and bone tissue engineering and even in dentistry. They can be the solution to many medical problems, and they have a huge role in the healing processes of bone fractures. Interestingly, they can also promote skin regeneration and wound healing. Bioactive glasses are able to attach to the bone tissues and form an apatite layer which further initiates the biomineralization process. The formed intermediate apatite layer makes a connection between the hard tissue and the bioactive glass material which results in faster healing without any complications or side effects. This review paper summarizes the most recent advancement in the preparation of diverse types of BGs, such as silicate-, borate- and phosphate-based bioactive glasses. We discuss their physical, chemical, and mechanical properties detailing how they affect their biological performances. In order to get a deeper insight into the state-of-the-art in this area, we also consider their medical applications, such as bone regeneration, wound care, and dental/bone implant coatings.
High Sensitivity Electrochemical As (III) Sensor Based on Fe3O4/MoS2 Nanocomposites
Authors: Hu Haibing , Hu Yunhu , Xie Baozhu , Zhu Jianxiong
Published: August 2023

Currently, heavy metal ion pollution in water is becoming more and more common, especially As (III), which is a serious threat to human health. In this experiment, a glassy carbon electrode modified with Fe3O4/MoS2 nanocomposites was used to select the square wave voltammetry (SWV) electrochemical detection method for the detection of trace As (III) in water. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) showed that Fe3O4 nanoparticles were uniformly attached to the surface of MoS2 and were not easily agglomerated. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) showed that Fe3O4/MoS2 has higher sensitivity and conductivity. After optimizing the experimental conditions, the Fe3O4/MoS2-modified glassy carbon electrode exhibited high sensitivity (3.67 μA/ppb) and a low detection limit (0.70 ppb), as well as excellent interference resistance and stability for As (III).
The Role of Threonine Deaminase/Dehydratase in Winter Dormancy in Sweet Cherry Buds
Authors: Götz Klaus-Peter , Ene Chibueze , Fettke Joerg , Chmielewski Frank-M.
Published: August 2023

The determination of the endodormancy release and the beginning of ontogenetic development is a challenge, because these are non-observable stages. Changes in protein activity are important aspects of signal transduction. The conversion of threonine to 2-oxobutanoate is the first step towards isoleucine (Ile) biosynthesis, which promote growth and development. The reaction is catalyzed by threonine deaminase/dehydratase (TD). This study on TD activity was conducted at the experimental sweet cherry orchard at Berlin-Dahlem. Fresh (FW), dry weight (DW), water content (WC), and the specific TD activity for the cherry cultivars Summit, Karina and Regina were conducted from flower bud samples between October and April. The content of asparagine (Asn), aspartic acid (Asp), Ile, and valine (Val) were exemplarily shown for Summit. In buds of Summit and Karina, the TD activity was one week after the beginning of the ontogenetic development (t1*), significantly higher compared to samplings during endo- and ecodormancy. Such “peak” activity did not occur in the buds of Regina; TD tended for a longer time (day of year, DOY 6–48) to a higher activity, compared to the time DOY 287–350. For the date “one week after t1*”, the upregulation of TD, the markedly increase of the Ile and Val content, and the increase of the water content in the buds, all this enzymatically confirms the estimated start of the ontogenetic development (t1*) in sweet cherry buds.
Diet and Glycemic Index in Children with Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Quarta Alessia , Guarino Miriana , Tripodi Roberta , Giannini Cosimo , Chiarelli Francesco , Blasetti Annalisa
Published: August 2023

In children with type 1 diabetes, a healthy lifestyle is important to control postprandial glycemia and to avoid hyperglycemic peaks that worsen the inflammatory state of vessels and tissues. Glycemic index and glycemic load are two important indexes which assess the quality and quantity of foods consumed during meals. The main macronutrients of the diet have a different effect on postprandial blood glucose levels, so it is important that diabetic children consume foods which determine a slower and steadier glycemic peak. In this review, we present the results of the most recent studies carried out in the pediatric population with T1D, whose aim was to analyze the effects of low-glycemic-index foods on glycemic control. The results are promising and demonstrate that diets promoting low-glycemic-index foods guarantee a greater glycemic stability with a reduction in postprandial hyperglycemic peaks. However, one of the main limitations is represented by the poor adherence of children to a healthy diet. In order to obtain satisfactory results, a possibility might be to ensure a balanced intake of low-, moderate- and high-glycemic-index foods, preferring those with a low glycemic index and limiting the consumption of the high- and moderate-glycemic-index types.
Serological Evidence Supporting the Occurrence of Ehrlichia chaffeensis or a Closely Related Species in Brazilian Dogs
Authors: Taques Isis Indaiara Gonçalves Granjeiro , Melo Andreia Lima Tomé , Horta Mauricio Claudio , Pereira Nathalia Assis , Aguiar Daniel Moura
Published: August 2023

Ehrlichia chaffeensis is a tick-borne bacterium that causes human monocytotropic ehrlichiosis, an emerging life-threatening disease in humans transmitted by Amblyomma americanum. Although most studies have reported bacterial isolations and clinical cases in the United States, their occurrence is not restricted to North America. Some studies in the Southern Cone of South America have molecularly detected a close phylogenetic relative of E. chaffeensis in ticks and wild mammals. Even so, many gaps must be filled to confirm the presence of this agent in the region. To add new data on this issue, we report the first detection of specific anti-E. chaffeensis antibodies in dogs collected from all regions of Brazil. By means of IFA and ELISA with crude and specific antigens of E. chaffeensis, sera from 1134 dogs were analyzed. Serological analyses using ELISA showed nine (0.7%) seropositive dogs, with seven of them exhibiting IFA titers ranging from 160 to 5120. All regions of Brazil had at least one seropositive dog. Our results support the evidence for the occurrence of E. chaffeensis in South America. As dogs have a close relationship with humans, they can be used as an environmental sentinel for these infections because they can act as a bridge to human parasitism or infection with ehrlichial agents.
Natural Products Treat Colorectal Cancer by Regulating miRNA
Authors: Guo Shuoxi , Chen Meiqi , Li Shuangyang , Geng Zijun , Jin Ye , Liu Da
Published: August 2023

Diseases are evolving as living standards continue to improve. Cancer is the main cause of death and a major public health problem that seriously threatens human life. Colorectal cancer is one of the top ten most common malignant tumors in China, ranking second after gastric cancer among gastrointestinal malignant tumors, and its incidence rate is increasing dramatically each year due to changes in the dietary habits and lifestyle of the world’s population. Although conventional therapies, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, have profoundly impacted the treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC), drug resistance and toxicity remain substantial challenges. Natural products, such as dietary therapeutic agents, are considered the safest alternative for treating CRC. In addition, there is substantial evidence that natural products can induce apoptosis, inhibit cell cycle arrest, and reduce the invasion and migration of colon cancer cells by targeting and regulating the expression and function of miRNAs. Here, we summarize the recent research findings on the miRNA-regulation-based antitumor mechanisms of various active ingredients in natural products, highlighting how natural products target miRNA regulation in colon cancer prevention and treatment. The application of natural drug delivery systems and predictive disease biomarkers in cancer prevention and treatment is also discussed. Such approaches will contribute to the discovery of new regulatory mechanisms associated with disease pathways and provide a new theoretical basis for developing novel colon cancer drugs and compounds and identifying new therapeutic targets.
A Solarpunk Manifesto: Turning Imaginary into Reality
Authors: Gillam William Joseph
Published: August 2023

In the last century, science fiction has become an incredibly powerful tool in depicting alternative social imaginaries, particularly those of the future. Extending beyond their fictious nature is a commentary on the stark realities of modern society. The ‘cyberpunk’ subgenre, for example, offers a dystopian critique on the dangers of technological dependence and hypercapitalism. In studying science fiction, future imaginaries can be developed as utopian goals for governance systems to strive for. In contrast to cyberpunk, the subgenre of ‘solarpunk’ depicts a utopian society where humanity lives locally, sustainably, and in harmony with nature. This paper deconstructs solarpunk media to describe three guiding principles of solarpunk: anarchism, ecology, and justice. As an anarchist community, solarpunk strives for a post-scarcity, post-capitalist society devoid of hierarchy and domination. As an ecological community, solarpunk strives for local, self-sufficient, and sustainable living where both the human and non-human flourish. Finally, as a just community, solarpunk strives to rid society of marginalization and celebrate authenticity. These three principles can be used to guide humanity towards a utopian, solarpunk future.
Nonlocal Hydrodynamic Model with Viscosive Damping and Generalized Drude–Lorentz Term
Authors: Burda Milan , Richter Ivan
Published: August 2023

The response of plasmonic metal particles to an electromagnetic wave produces significant features at the nanoscale level. Different properties of the internal composition of a metal, such as its ionic background and the free electron gas, begin to manifest more prominently. As the dimensions of the nanostructures decrease, the classical local theory gradually becomes inadequate. Therefore, Maxwell’s equations need to be supplemented with a relationship determining the dynamics of current density which is the essence of nonlocal plasmonic models. In this field of physics, the standard (linearized) hydrodynamic model (HDM) has been widely adopted with great success, serving as the basis for a variety of simulation methods. However, ongoing efforts are also being made to expand and refine it. Recently, the GNOR (general nonlocal optical response) modification of the HDM has been used, with the intention of incorporating the influence of electron gas diffusion. Clearly, from the classical description of fluid dynamics, a close relationship between viscosive damping and diffusion arises. This offers a relevant motivation for introducing the GNOR modification in an alternative manner. The standard HDM and its existing GNOR modification also do not include the influence of interband electron transitions in the conduction band and other phenomena that are part of many refining modifications of the Drude–Lorentz and other models of metal permittivity. In this article, we present a modified version of GNOR-HDM that incorporates the viscosive damping of the electron gas and a generalized Drude–Lorentz term. In the selected simulations, we also introduce Landau damping, which corrects the magnitude of the standard damping constant of the electron gas based on the size of the nanoparticle. We have chosen a spherical particle as a suitable object for testing and comparing HD models and their modifications because it allows the calculation of precise analytical solutions for the interactions and, simultaneously, it is a relatively easily fabricated nanostructure in practice. Our contribution also includes our own analytical method for solving the HDM interaction of a plane wave with a spherical particle. This method forms the core of calculations of the characteristic quantities, such as the extinction cross-sections and the corresponding components of electric fields and current densities.
Topological Charge of Propagation-Invariant Laser Beams
Authors: Kotlyar Victor V. , Kovalev Alexey A. , Abramochkin Eugeny G.
Published: August 2023

If a vortex propagation-invariant beam is given by all its intensity nulls, then its topological charge (TC) can be defined easily: its TC is equal to the sum of topological charges of all optical vortices in these intensity nulls. If, however, a propagation-invariant beam is given as a superposition of several light fields, then determining its TC is a complicated task. Here, we derive the topological charges of four different types of propagation-invariant beams, represented as axial superpositions of Hermite–Gaussian beams with different amplitudes and different phase delays. In particular, topological charges are obtained for such beam families as the Hermite–Laguerre–Gaussian (HLG) beams and two-parametric vortex Hermite beams. We show that the TC is a quantity resistant to changing certain beam parameters. For instance, when the parameters θ and α of the HLG beams are altered, the beam intensity also changes significantly, but the TC remains unchanged.
A Visible Light 3D Positioning System for Underground Mines Based on Convolutional Neural Network Combining Inception Module and Attention Mechanism
Authors: Deng Bo , Wang Fengying , Qin Ling , Hu Xiaoli
Published: August 2023

To improve the accuracy of personnel positioning in underground coal mines, in this paper, we propose a convolutional neural network (CNN) three-dimensional (3D) visible light positioning (VLP) system based on the Inception-v2 module and efficient channel attention mechanism. The system consists of two LEDs and four photodetectors (PDs), with the four PDs on the miner’s helmet. Considering the height fluctuation of PD and the impact of wall reflection on the received light power, we adopt the Inception module to perform a multi-scale extraction of the features of the received light power, thus solving the limitation of the single-scale convolution kernel on the positioning accuracy. In order to focus on the information that is more critical to positioning among the numerous input features, giving different features of the optical power data corresponding weights, we use an efficient channel attention mechanism to make the positioning model more accurate. The simulation results show that the average positioning error of the system was 1.63 cm in the space of 6 m × 3 m × 3.6 m when both the line-of-sight (LOS) and non-line-of-sight (NLOS) links were considered, with 90% of the localization errors within 4.55 cm. During the experimental stage, the average positioning error was 11.12 cm, with 90% of the positioning errors within 28.75 cm. These show that the system could achieve centimeter-level positioning accuracy and meet the requirements for underground personnel positioning in coal mines.
Effect of Reducing Nitrogen Fertilization and Adding Organic Fertilizer on Net Photosynthetic Rate, Root Nodules and Yield in Peanut
Authors: Zhang Guanchu , Liu Qiangbo , Zhang Zhimeng , Ci Dunwei , Zhang Jialei , Xu Yang , Guo Qing , Xu Manlin , He Kang
Published: August 2023

Long-term excessive application of chemical fertilizers can cause many problems, such as soil degradation and environmental pollution. Therefore, we reduced conventional nitrogen fertilization and added organic fertilizers in some cases to investigate the response of photosynthetic characteristics, root nodules and yield on reduced nitrogen fertilization. Compared to conventional nitrogen fertilization, the 25% and 35% nitrogen reduction treatments reduced the leaf area index, net photosynthetic rate, 100-fruit weight, 100-kernel weight and the yield of peanut, but had no significant effect on the kernel rate. With constant N fertilizer, adding organic fertilization alone increased leaf area index, chlorophyll, net photosynthetic rate and yield of peanut. In compounded treatments of nitrogen and organic fertilizer, the highest yields were achieved in the 25% N reduction with the 3000 kg/hm−2 organic fertilizer treatment (T3) and the 4500 kg/hm−2 organic fertilizer treatment (T4); furthermore, the net photosynthetic rate, leaf area index, yield and fertilizer contribution were significantly higher in these two treatments than in the conventional fertilizer treatments. Nitrogen fertilizer had significant effects on the quantity and fresh weight of root nodules. Concretely, nitrogen reduction increased the quantity and fresh weight of root nodules of peanut in the early stage of fertility but decreased them in the harvest stage. Nitrogen reduction with an additional organic fertilizer in the late stage of fertility increased the quantity and fresh weight of root nodules of peanut. Considering the property of root nodules was significantly positively correlated with net photosynthetic rate and yield, the arguments above may be the mechanism of the highest yields found in T3 and T4. This work can provide empirical and instructional support for a balanced fertilization strategy in peanut agriculture and high-yielding and efficient cultivation of peanut.