bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surface Characteristics of High Translucent Multilayered Dental Zirconia Related to Aging
Authors: Toma Flavia Roxana , Bîrdeanu Mihaela Ionela , Uțu Ion-Dragoș , Vasiliu Roxana Diana , Moleriu Lavinia Cristina , Porojan Liliana
Published: May 2022

(1) Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the differences in terms of surface characteristics (roughness, topography, microhardness) among layers for multi-layered high translucent and super-high translucent zirconia and the influence of finishing and aging on surface characteristics and microstructure. (2) Methods: Three types of translucent multilayer zirconia were evaluated: STML (4Y-TZP); IPS e.maxZirCAD CEREC/in Lab MT Multi (4Y-TZP + 5Y-TZP); CeramillZolidfx ML (5Y-TZP). Ninety-six plate-shaped samples (32 for a material), 16 mm × 14 mm × 1 mm size, were cut with a precision disc, polished on both sides with sand papers and sintered respecting the manufacturer’s protocol. Half of the specimens (16) were finished by polishing and the other half by glazing and then equally divided into one control group and one group subject to aging by autoclaving (1 h, 134 °C, 0.2 MPa), resulting in four groups of eight samples, for each zirconia. The specimens were evaluated in three areas: cervical, medium, incisal-of each glazed or polished surface, before and after aging. Tests were performed to determine the surface roughness using a profilometer; the surface topography by an atomic force microscope (AFM) and a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Microhardness was recorded using a microhardness tester. Statistical analyses were performed using two-way ANOVA test, unpaired sample t-Test, paired sample t-Test (α = 0.05) and Pearson’s correlation. (3) Results: Before and after autoclaving, for glazed samples significance (p < 0.05) higher surface roughness, respectively lower microhardness in comparison with the polished group was assessed. No significant differences (p > 0.05) were reported between the three areas, on glazed or polished surfaces of a material. Although, after aging an increase in surface roughness was observed both on glazed and polished samples, statistical differences were found for STML (p < 0.05). No significant differences (p> 0.05) concerning microhardness among the same areas, on glazed and polished surfaces, recorded before and after aging, except CeramillZolidfx ML glazed samples. (4) Conclusions: For tested zirconia materials no significant differences among layers were registered regarding surface characteristics. Surface treatment (glazing or polishing) has a significant impact on surface roughness and microhardness. Both before and after aging, the surface roughness values for the glazed samples were higher than for those polished. The super translucent 4Y-TZP material was more affected by aging compared to the super-high translucent 5Y-TZP material. The combined material revealed similarities for each layer corresponding to the microstructure.
Phase Relations in a NaFeO2-SnO2 (0–50 mol.% SnO2) System and the Crystal Structure and Conductivity of Na0.8Fe0.8Sn0.2O2
Authors: Shekhtman Georgiy S. , Sherstobitova Elena A. , Shchelkanova Mariya S. , Ilyina Evgenia A.
Published: May 2022

With the view of developing new materials for sodium and sodium-ion power sources, NaFeO2-SnO2 (0–50 mol.% SnO2) powders were synthesized using a solid state method, and their phase composition and crystal structure were studied. A phase of the Na0.8Fe0.8Sn0.2O2 composition with a layered rhombohedral structure of the α-NaFeO2 type was found when the tin dioxide content was 20 mol.%. The phase produced was of an O3 structural type. O3-type phases have sufficiently good performance when used as cathode materials in sodium-ion batteries and, moreover, often have a rather high sodium-cation conductivity. A two-dimensional migration map was built using Voronoi–Dirichlet partition and TOPOS software package. The sodium-ion conductivity of Na0.8Fe0.8Sn0.2O2 at room temperature was rated low (10−8 S × cm−1 at 20 °C), which may be the result of channels too narrow for Na+ migration. The results obtained show that the application of the compound studied in this work as a solid electrolyte in sodium power sources is unlikely. It is the potential use of Na0.8Fe0.8Sn0.2O2 as the active material of cathodes in Na and Na-ion power sources that presents practical interest.
Stiffness-Oriented Placement Optimization of Machining Robots for Large Component Flexible Manufacturing System
Authors: Xue Yuan , Sun Zezhong , Liu Shiwei , Gao Dong , Xu Zefan
Published: May 2022

A large component flexible manufacturing system provides more application scenarios for industrial robots, and, in turn, these robots exhibit competitive advantages in machining applications. However, the structural characteristic of low stiffness is the main obstacle for the industrial robot. Aiming at obtaining sufficient stiffness in the whole machining process, this paper focuses on robot placement optimization in the flexible manufacturing of large components. The geometric center of the machined feature is selected as, firstly, the base point, and the center-reachable placement space of the robot base is obtained by establishing the kinematic model considering a variety of motion constraints. Then, according to the reachability of the machining feature contour, the global placement space meeting all machining boundaries is further extracted. The mapping relationship between joint force and posture is established, and the most suitable robot placement is selected based on the criterion of global stiffness optimization. A series of numerical and finite element simulations verify the correctness and effectiveness of the proposed optimization strategy. The developed stiffness-oriented placement planning algorithm can provide beneficial references for robotic machining applications.
Repairing Damaged Screen Pipes with Tube Hydroforming: Experiments and Feasibility Analysis
Authors: Liu Shufeng , Wang Hanxiang , Lan Wenjian , Liu Yanxin , Che Jiaqi , Ma Shaohua
Published: May 2022

During oil-well production, there are often cracks, breaks, and perforation corrosion on the screen pipe that can significantly deteriorate sand control and pipe strength. To repair damaged screen pipes, we developed a technique originating from the tube hydroforming, and the feasibility of the technique was systematically investigated. First, the elastoplastic mechanics of patch tubes during the hydroforming process was analyzed to investigate the forming mechanism. Second, tensile experiments showed that AISI 321 after cold drawn and solution had good mechanical properties. A numerical simulation model of a hydroforming patch composed of AISI 321 steel was built to investigate the effect of structural parameters such as the length, initial outer diameter, and thickness of a patch tube on hydroforming patch performance. Forming pressure did not significantly change with length, but it decreased with initial outer diameter and increased with thickness. In addition to the simulation, a hydroforming test bench was constructed to experimentally test the patch method. Test results showed that the patch tube could fit closely with the screen base pipe, and residual contact stress could be more than 139.78 kN/m2. Deformation strengthening due to the deformed martensite was conducive to improving the strength of the patch tube after hydroforming. The combination of the simulation and experiment indicates that the application of hydroforming patch technology can effectively repair damaged screen pipes.
“Mixed” Meshless Time-Domain Adaptive Algorithm for Solving Elasto-Dynamics Equations
Authors: Liao Maoxiong , Zhang Tao , Cao Jinggu
Published: May 2022

A time-domain adaptive algorithm was developed for solving elasto-dynamics problems through a mixed meshless local Petrov-Galerkin finite volume method (MLPG5). In this time-adaptive algorithm, each time-dependent variable is interpolated by a time series function of n-order, which is determined by a criterion in each step. The high-order series of expanded variables bring high accuracy in the time domain, especially for the elasto-dynamic equations, which are second-order PDE in the time domain. In the present mixed MLPG5 dynamic formulation, the strains are interpolated independently, as are displacements in the local weak form, which eliminates the expensive differential of the shape function. In the traditional MLPG5, both shape function and its derivative for each node need to be calculated. By taking the Heaviside function as the test function, the local domain integration of stiffness matrix is avoided. Several numerical examples, including the comparison of our method, the MLPG5–Newmark method and FEM (ANSYS) are given to demonstrate the advantages of the presented method: (1) a large time step can be used in solving a elasto-dynamics problem; (2) computational efficiency and accuracy are improved in both space and time; (3) smaller support sizes can be used in the mixed MLPG5.
Some Fixed-Point Theorems in Proximity Spaces with Applications
Authors: Qasim Muhammad , Alamri Hind , Altun Ishak , Hussain Nawab
Published: May 2022

Considering the ω-distance function defined by Kostić in proximity space, we prove the Matkowski and Boyd–Wong fixed-point theorems in proximity space using ω-distance, and provide some examples to explain the novelty of our work. Moreover, we characterize Edelstein-type fixed-point theorem in compact proximity space. Finally, we investigate an existence and uniqueness result for solution of a kind of second-order boundary value problem via obtained Matkowski-type fixed-point results under some suitable conditions.
Generalized Wintgen Inequality for Statistical Submanifolds in Hessian Manifolds of Constant Hessian Curvature
Authors: Siddiqui Aliya Naaz , Alkhaldi Ali Hussain , Alqahtani Lamia Saeed
Published: May 2022

The geometry of Hessian manifolds is a fruitful branch of physics, statistics, Kaehlerian and affine differential geometry. The study of inequalities for statistical submanifolds in Hessian manifolds of constant Hessian curvature was truly initiated in 2018 by Mihai, A. and Mihai, I. who dealt with Chen-Ricci and Euler inequalities. Later on, Siddiqui, A.N., Ahmad K. and Ozel C. came with the study of Casorati inequality for statistical submanifolds in the same ambient space by using algebraic technique. Also, Chen, B.-Y., Mihai, A. and Mihai, I. obtained a Chen first inequality for such submanifolds. In 2020, Mihai, A. and Mihai, I. studied the Chen inequality for δ(2,2)-invariant. In the development of this topic, we establish the generalized Wintgen inequality for statistical submanifolds in Hessian manifolds of constant Hessian curvature. Some examples are also discussed at the end.
U(h)-Free Modules over the Lie Algebras of Differential Operators
Authors: Dilxat Munayim , Gao Shoulan , Liu Dong , Xia Limeng
Published: May 2022

This paper mainly considers a class of non-weight modules over the Lie algebra of the Weyl type. First, we construct the U(h)-free modules of rank one over the differential operator algebra. Then, we characterize the tensor products of these kind of modules and the quasi-finite highest weight modules. Finally, we undertake such research for the differential operator algebra of multi-variables.
Study of Solutions for a Degenerate Reaction Equation with a High Order Operator and Advection
Authors: Díaz Palencia José Luis , Roa González Julián , Sánchez Sánchez Almudena
Published: May 2022

The goal of the present study is to characterize solutions under a travelling wave formulation to a degenerate Fisher-KPP problem. With the degenerate problem, we refer to the following: a heterogeneous diffusion that is formulated with a high order operator; a non-linear advection and non-Lipstchitz spatially heterogeneous reaction. The paper examines the existence of solutions, uniqueness and travelling wave oscillatory properties (also called instabilities). Such oscillatory behaviour may lead to negative solutions in the proximity of zero. A numerical exploration is provided with the following main finding to declare: the solutions keeps oscillating in the proximity of the null stationary solution due to the high order operator, except if the reaction term is quasi-Lipschitz, in which it is possible to define a region where solutions are positive locally in time.
A Modified Conjugate Residual Method and Nearest Kronecker Product Preconditioner for the Generalized Coupled Sylvester Tensor Equations
Authors: Li Tao , Wang Qing-Wen , Zhang Xin-Fang
Published: May 2022

This paper is devoted to proposing a modified conjugate residual method for solving the generalized coupled Sylvester tensor equations. To further improve its convergence rate, we derive a preconditioned modified conjugate residual method based on the Kronecker product approximations for solving the tensor equations. A theoretical analysis shows that the proposed method converges to an exact solution for any initial tensor at most finite steps in the absence round-off errors. Compared with a modified conjugate gradient method, the obtained numerical results illustrate that our methods perform much better in terms of the number of iteration steps and computing time.
Electrospun, Resorbable, Drug-Eluting, Nanofibrous Membranes Promote Healing of Allograft Tendons
Authors: Weng Chun-Jui , Wu Yu-Chen , Hsu Ming-Yi , Chang Fu-Pang , Liu Shih-Jung
Published: May 2022

In spite of advances in medical technology, the repair of Achilles tendon ruptures remains challenging. Reconstruction with an autograft tendon provides the advantage of a higher healing rate; nevertheless, the development of donor-site morbidity cannot be ignored. We developed biodegradable, drug-eluting, nanofibrous membranes employing an electrospinning technique and evaluated their effectiveness on the healing of allograft tendons. Poly-D-L-lactide-glycolide was used as the polymeric material for the nanofibers, while doxycycline was selected as the drug for delivery. The in vitro and in vivo drug-release profiles were investigated. The biomechanical properties of allografted Achilles tendons repaired using the nanofibrous membranes were tested in euthanized rabbits at 2-, 4-, and 6-week time intervals. Histological examination was performed for the evaluation of tissue reaction and tendon healing. The level of postoperative animal activity was also monitored using an animal behavior cage. The experimental results showed that the degradable nanofibers used as a vehicle could provide sustained release of doxycycline for 42 days after surgery with very low systemic drug concentration. Allograft Achilles tendon reconstruction assisted by drug-loaded nanofibers was associated with better biomechanical properties at 6 weeks post-surgery. In addition, the animals exhibited a better level of activity after surgery. The use of drug-eluting, nanofibrous membranes could enhance healing in Achilles tendon allograft reconstruction surgery.
High-Cycle Fatigue Life and Strength Prediction for Medium-Carbon Bainitic Steels
Authors: Fan Yusong , Gui Xiaolu , Liu Miao , Wang Xi , Feng Chun , Gao Guhui
Published: May 2022

High-cycle fatigue (HCF) behaviors of medium-carbon bainitic steels with various inclusion sizes and microstructural features were studied using the rotating–bending fatigue test. Here, the medium-carbon bainitic steels with different melting processes were treated by three heat treatment routes incorporating bainite formation, namely bainite-based quenching plus partitioning (BQ&P), bainite austempering (BAT) and “disturbed bainite austempering, DBAT”. The interior inclusion-induced crack initiation (IICI) and noninclusion-induced crack initiation (NIICI) modes were found after fatigue failure. The fracture surface of IICI is characterized by a “fish-eye” surrounding a “fine granular area, FGA” in the vicinity of an inclusion. In contrast, a microfacet, instead of an inclusion, is found at the center of FGA for the NIICI fracture surface. The predications of fatigue strength and life were performed on the two crack initiation modes based on fracture surface analysis. The results showed that a majority of fatigue life is consumed within the FGA for both the IICI and NIICI failure modes. The fatigue strength of the NIICI-fatigued samples can be conveniently predicted via the two parameters of the hardness of the sample and the size of the microfacet.
Stress Intensity Factors for Radial Crack on Inner Surface of Interface in Multi-Layer Rotating Thick-Walled Cylinder
Authors: Ying Jun , Yang Zhaojun , Chen Chuanhai , Tian Hailong , Deng Fuqin , Li Jieli
Published: May 2022

Cracks often appear on the inner surface of metal thick-walled cylinders with multiple interference fits. Considering that no relatively accurate model exists for the cracks on the interface of multi-layered, rotating, thick-walled cylinders, in this paper, the stress intensity factor is established for a radial penetrating crack on the interface of a multi-layered, rotating, thick-walled cylinder. The parameters included in the equation are the rotation speed, the wall thickness ratio, and the interference. First, finite element software is used to calculate the stress intensity factors of two thick-walled cylinders under an interference fit with a crack on the interface. Then, the equation of the stress intensity factor is fitted with the parameters of contact pressure, crack depth, and wall thickness ratio. Next, the weight function is used to calculate the stress intensity factor for radial penetrating cracks on the inner surface of the cylinder’s interface. Finally, 2D finite element models of the four-layer cylinder with a crack are established to verify the equation.
Study of Surface Temperature Distribution for High-Temperature U75V Rail Steel Plates in Rolling Process by Colorimetry Thermometry
Authors: Zhou Dongdong , Gao Feng , Wang Junjian , Xu Ke
Published: May 2022

Surface temperature is a critical operating parameter that influences the phase transition time and rolling quality of U75V rail steel plates in the rolling process. There is still no extensive online detection system for the surface temperature of rail steel plates due to the hazardous environment, incorrect surface emissivity, and complex backgrounds. In this paper, online surface temperature detection equipment based on multi-spectral photography was built for high-temperature rail steel plates in the rolling processes. Then, the emissivity model for a high-temperature environment, colorimetric thermometry, and noise filtering methods were investigated to improve the accuracy of the temperature detection results of rail steel plates. Finally, the surface temperature of the U75V rail steel plate during three rolling passes could be calculated online point by point, and the greatest error was approximately 0.82% due to the blackbody calibration experiments. The results not only have a positive effect on understanding the temperature declination process of low-alloy rail steel plates during the rolling process, but could also benefit the control of the cooling rate and optimize the rolling model during rolling passes.
Untargeted Metabolomic Profiling and Antioxidant Capacities of Different Solvent Crude Extracts of Ephedra foeminea
Authors: Al-Nemi Ruba , Makki Arwa A. , Sawalha Khaled , Hajjar Dina , Jaremko Mariusz
Published: May 2022

Ephedra foeminea is a traditional medicinal plant used in the Eastern Mediterranean region. This study aims to investigate the chemical profiles of different solvent extracts of E. foeminea via an untargeted metabolomics approach, alongside determining their antioxidant capacities. E. foeminea samples collected from Jordan were macerated in solvents of varying polarities; dichloromethane/methanol, methanol, ethanol, ethyl acetate, and acetone. The crude extracts were subjected to comprehensive chemical profiling and metabolomics study using Gas chromatography–Mass spectrometry (GC–MS), Liquid chromatography–Mass spectrometry (LC–MS), and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR). The obtained data were analyzed using Venn diagrams, Principle Component Analysis (PCA), and Metabolite Enrichment Set Analysis (MESA). ABTS assay was performed to measure the crude extracts’ antioxidant activity. MESA revealed the dominant chemical groups as amino acids, fatty acids, carboxylic acids, and carbohydrates. Results indicated that dichloromethane/methanol and methanolic extracts had the most distinct composition as well as the most unique compounds. The methanolic extract had the most potency (IC50 249.6 µg/mL) in the ABTS assay. However, no significant differences were found. In conclusion, solvents influenced the recovery of metabolites in E. foeminea and the antioxidant activity of the E. foeminea methanolic extract could be correlated to the abundant presence of diverse bioactive compounds.
A Comparison of Solvent-Based Extraction Methods to Assess the Central Carbon Metabolites in Mouse Bone and Muscle
Authors: Dias Daniela B. , Fritsche-Guenther Raphaela , Gutmann Friederike , Duda Georg N. , Kirwan Jennifer , Poh Patrina S. P.
Published: May 2022

The identification of endogenous metabolites has great potential for understanding the underlying tissue processes occurring in either a homeostatic or a diseased state. The application of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS)-based metabolomics on musculoskeletal tissue samples has gained traction. However, limited comparison studies exist evaluating the sensitivity, reproducibility, and robustness of the various existing extraction protocols for musculoskeletal tissues. Here, we evaluated polar metabolite extraction from bone and muscle of mouse origin. The extraction methods compared were (1) modified Bligh–Dyer (mBD), (2) low chloroform (CHCl3)-modified Bligh–Dyer (mBD-low), and (3) modified Matyash (mMat). In particular, the central carbon metabolites (CCM) appear to be relevant for musculoskeletal regeneration, given their role in energy metabolism. However, the sensitivity, reproducibility, and robustness of these methods for detecting targeted polar CCM remains unknown. Overall, the extraction of metabolites using the mBD, mBD-low, and mMat methods appears sufficiently robust and reproducible for bone, with the mBD method slightly bettering the mBD-low and mMat methods. Furthermore, mBD, mBD-low, and mMat were sufficiently sensitive in detecting polar metabolites extracted from mouse muscle; however, they lacked repeatability. This study highlights the need for a re-thinking, towards a tissue-specific optimization of methods for metabolite extractions, ensuring sufficient sensitivity, repeatability, and robustness.
Update on the Epidemiological Features and Clinical Implications of Human Papillomavirus Infection (HPV) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Coinfection
Authors: Pérez-González Alexandre , Cachay Edward , Ocampo Antonio , Poveda Eva
Published: May 2022

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) worldwide. Although most HPV infections will spontaneously resolve, a considerable proportion of them will persist, increasing the risk of anogenital dysplasia, especially within certain populations, such as patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Furthermore, high-risk oncogenic HPV types (HR-HPV) are the main cause of cervix and other anogenital cancers, such as cancer of the vagina, vulva, penis, or anus. HIV and HPV coinfection is common among people living with HIV (PLWH) but disproportionally affects men who have sex with men (MSM) for whom the rate of persistent HPV infection and reinfection is noteworthy. The molecular interactions between HIV and HPV, as well as the interplay between both viruses and the immune system, are increasingly being understood. The immune dysfunction induced by HIV infection impairs the rate of HPV clearance and increases its oncogenic risk. Despite the availability of effective antiretroviral therapy (ART), the incidence of several HPV-related cancers is higher in PLWH, and the burden of persistent HPV-related disease has become a significant concern in an aging HIV population. Several public health strategies have been developed to reduce the transmission of HIV and HPV and mitigate the consequences of this type of coinfection. Universal HPV vaccination is the most effective preventive tool to reduce the incidence of HPV disease. In addition, screening programs for HPV-related cervical and vulvovaginal diseases in women are well-recognized strategies to prevent cervical cancer. Similarly, anal dysplasia screening programs are being implemented worldwide for the prevention of anal cancer among PLWH. Herein, the main epidemiological features and clinical implications of HIV and HPV coinfection are reviewed, focusing mainly on the relationship between HIV immune status and HPV-related diseases and the current strategies used to reduce the burden of HPV-related disease.
A Feasibility Study of CSEM in Geological Advance Forecast with Horizontal Casing Well
Authors: Li Jintai , Liu Jianxin , Xue Jianqiang , Guo Rongwen , Chen Hang , Liu Rong
Published: May 2022

With the rapid exploitation of deep mines by digging new tunnels, the advance forecast of water inrush has become increasingly important. The land-based controlled source electromagnetic method (CSEM) is commonly used to detect water-bearing structures. To increase its sensitivity, we propose a new measuring configuration for CSEM by placing EM sensors in an underground steel-cased well. The numerical modeling is conducted by COMSOL to overcome the difficulties of investigating the feasibility of the measuring configuration. The current distribution and electromagnetic field along an in-seam horizontal casing are investigated based on a synthesis three-layered model. The results illustrate that the casing can be treated as antennas that enhance the electric fields at large depths. The water-bearing structures can be observed by a magnetic field (with a perpendicularly horizontal electric dipole (HED) source) rather than an electric field (with a parallelly HED source). Numerical simulations demonstrate that the proposed method is a feasible and effective technique for the detection of water-bearing structures during deep mineral exploration.
Impact of the Hydrolysis and Methanolysis of Bidesmosidic Chenopodium quinoa Saponins on Their Hemolytic Activity
Authors: Savarino Philippe , Contino Carolina , Colson Emmanuel , Cabrera-Barjas Gustavo , De Winter Julien , Gerbaux Pascal
Published: May 2022

Saponins are specific metabolites abundantly present in plants and several marine animals. Their high cytotoxicity is associated with their membranolytic properties, i.e., their propensity to disrupt cell membranes upon incorporation. As such, saponins are highly attractive for numerous applications, provided the relation between their molecular structures and their biological activities is understood at the molecular level. In the present investigation, we focused on the bidesmosidic saponins extracted from the quinoa husk, whose saccharidic chains are appended on the aglycone via two different linkages, a glycosidic bond, and an ester function. The later position is sensitive to chemical modifications, such as hydrolysis and methanolysis. We prepared and characterized three sets of saponins using mass spectrometry: (i) bidesmosidic saponins directly extracted from the ground husk, (ii) monodesmosidic saponins with a carboxylic acid group, and (iii) monodesmosidic saponins with a methyl ester function. The impact of the structural modifications on the membranolytic activity of the saponins was assayed based on the determination of their hemolytic activity. The natural bidesmosidic saponins do not present any hemolytic activity even at the highest tested concentration (500 µg·mL−1). Hydrolyzed saponins already degrade erythrocytes at 20 µg·mL−1, whereas 100 µg·mL−1 of transesterified saponins is needed to induce detectable activity. The observation that monodesmosidic saponins, hydrolyzed or transesterified, are much more active against erythrocytes than the bidesmosidic ones confirms that bidesmosidic saponins are likely to be the dormant form of saponins in plants. Additionally, the observation that negatively charged saponins, i.e., the hydrolyzed ones, are more hemolytic than the neutral ones could be related to the red blood cell membrane structure.
Polysaccharides from Medicine and Food Homology Materials: A Review on Their Extraction, Purification, Structure, and Biological Activities
Authors: Xu Jiaqi , Zhang Jinling , Sang Yumei , Wei Yaning , Chen Xingyue , Wang Yuanxin , Xue Hongkun
Published: May 2022

Medicine and food homology (MFH) materials are rich in polysaccharides, proteins, fats, vitamins, and other components. Hence, they have good medical and nutritional values. Polysaccharides are identified as one of the pivotal bioactive constituents of MFH materials. Accumulating evidence has revealed that MFH polysaccharides (MFHPs) have a variety of biological activities, such as antioxidant, immunomodulatory, anti-tumor, hepatoprotective, anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and radioprotective activities. Consequently, the research progress and future prospects of MFHPs must be systematically reviewed to promote their better understanding. This paper reviewed the extraction and purification methods, structure, biological activities, and potential molecular mechanisms of MFHPs. This review may provide some valuable insights for further research regarding MFHPs.
Cationic Geminoid Peptide Amphiphiles Inhibit DENV2 Protease, Furin, and Viral Replication
Authors: Damen Mark , Izidoro Mario , Okamoto Debora , Oliveira Lilian , Amatdjais-Groenen Helene , van Dongen Stijn , van Cleef Koen , van Rij Ronald , Dieteren Cindy , Gironés Daniel , van Buuren Bernd , Martina Byron , Osterhaus Albert , Juliano Luiz , Scholte Bob , Feiters Martin
Published: May 2022

Dengue is an important arboviral infectious disease for which there is currently no specific cure. We report gemini-like (geminoid) alkylated amphiphilic peptides containing lysines in combination with glycines or alanines (C15H31C(O)-Lys-(Gly or Ala)nLys-NHC16H33, shorthand notation C16-KXnK-C16 with X = A or G, and n = 0–2). The representatives with 1 or 2 Ala inhibit dengue protease and human furin, two serine proteases involved in dengue virus infection that have peptides with cationic amino acids as their preferred substrates, with IC50 values in the lower µM range. The geminoid C16-KAK-C16 combined inhibition of DENV2 protease (IC50 2.3 µM) with efficacy against replication of wildtype DENV2 in LLC-MK2 cells (EC50 4.1 µM) and an absence of toxicity. We conclude that the lysine-based geminoids have activity against dengue virus infection, which is based on their inhibition of the proteases involved in viral replication and are therefore promising leads to further developing antiviral therapeutics, not limited to dengue.
Enhanced Solar Efficiency via Incorporation of Plasmonic Gold Nanostructures in a Titanium Oxide/Eosin Y Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell
Authors: Nyembe Sanele , Chindeka Francis , Ndlovu Gebhu , Mkhohlakali Andile , Nyokong Tebello , Sikhwivhilu Lucky
Published: May 2022

Plasmonic gold nanoparticles significantly improved the efficiency of a TiO2 and Eosin Y based dye-sensitized solar cell from 2.4 to 6.43%. The gold nanoparticles’ sizes that were tested were 14 nm, 30 nm and 40 nm synthesized via the systematic reduction of citrate concentration using the Turkevich method. Prestine TiO2 without plasmonic gold nanoparticles yielded an efficiency of 2.4%. However, the loading of 40 nm gold nanoparticles into the TiO2 matrix yielded the highest DSSC efficiency of 6.43% compared to 30 nm (5.91%) and 14 nm (2.6%). The relatively high efficiency demonstrated by plasmonic gold nanoparticles is ascribed to light absorption/scattering, hot electron injection and plasmon-induced resonance energy transfer (PIRET), influenced by the size of the gold nanoparticles.
Different Methods and Formulations of Drugs and Vaccines for Nasal Administration
Authors: Tai Junhu , Han Munsoo , Lee Dabin , Park Il-Ho , Lee Sang Hag , Kim Tae Hoon
Published: May 2022

Nasal drug delivery is advantageous when compared with other routes of drug delivery as it avoids the hepatic first-pass effect, blood–brain barrier penetration, and compliance issues with parenteral administration. However, nasal administration also has some limitations, such as its low bioavailability due to metabolism on the mucosal surface, and irreversible damage to the nasal mucosa due to the ingredients added into the formula. Moreover, the method of nasal administration is not applicable to all drugs. The current review presents the nasal anatomy and mucosal environment for the nasal delivery of vaccines and drugs, as well as presents various methods for enhancing nasal absorption, and different drug carriers and delivery devices to improve nasal drug delivery. It also presents future prospects on the nasal drug delivery of vaccines and drugs.
J-PARC Hadron Physics and Future Possibilities on Color Transparency
Authors: Kumano Shunzo
Published: May 2022

The Japan Proton Accelerator Research Complex (J-PARC) is a hadron-accelerator facility that aims to provide secondary beams of kaons, pions, neutrinos, muons, and others together with the primary proton beam for investigating a wide range of science projects. High-energy hadron physics can be studied by using high-momentum beams of unseparated hadrons, which are essentially pions, and also primary protons. In this report, possible experiments are explained on color transparency and generalized parton distributions (GPDs). These projects are complementary to lepton-scattering experiments at Jefferson Laboratory (JLab), COMPASS/AMBER, and future electron-ion colliders. Thank to hadron-beam energies up to 30 GeV, J-PARC is a unique facility to investigate the transition region from the hadron degrees of freedom to the quark-gluon degrees of freedom. It is suitable for finding mechanisms of the olor transparency. Such color-transparency studies are also valuable for clarifying the factorization of hadron production processes in extracting the GPDs from actual measurements. These studies will lead to the understanding of basic high-energy hadron interactions in nuclear medium and to clarifications on the origins of hadron spins, masses, and internal pressure mechanisms.
In Vitro Cultures and Volatile Organic Compound Production in Chiliadenus montanus (Vhal.) Brullo
Authors: Abu-Darwish Doaa , Shibli Rida , Al-Abdallat Ayed M.
Published: May 2022

Callus and microshoot cultures were established for Chiliadenus montanus (Vhal.) Brullo. (Asteraceae), a medicinal plant known for producing volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Callus induction was achieved successfully by culturing leaf explants on full-strength Murashige and Skoog medium (MS) supplemented with 2.2 µM 2, 4-dichlorophenoxy acetic acid (2,4-D) and 6.9 µM kinetin (Kin). Successful direct shoot regeneration was achieved using nodal explants cultured onto half-strength MS media supplemented with 1.4 μM Gibberellic Acid (GA3) and 4.4 μM 6-Benzylaminopurine (BAP). Indirect microshoots were successfully regenerated using callus cultured on MS media supplemented with 8.8 μM BAP, 2.2 μM Zeatin, and 1.4 μM GA3 followed by culturing on MS media supplemented with 8.8 μM BAP and 0.5 μM naphthalene acetic acid (NAA). Using wild plant aerial parts, callus and microshoots samples, VOCs were extracted successfully using Headspace Solid-Phase Micro-Extraction (HS-SPME) and analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). In wild plant extracts, sesquiterpene hydrocarbons were found to be predominant with the following principal components: Alloaromadendrene (11.92%), trans-Cadina-1(6),4-diene (7.54%), and α-caryophyllene (6.77%). The analysis of in vitro microshoots revealed high levels of oxygenated monoterpenes with cis-Myrtanol (16.62%), and β-Cyclocitral (14.3%) as the main components. Callus extract was dominated by monoterpene hydrocarbons and the main compounds identified were (Z)-β-Ocimene (22.27%), p-Cymene (15.13%), and α-pinene (13.78%). In conclusion, an efficient in vitro production system of VOCs in C. montanus was established that can be used in the future for boosting their production without endangering wild plants.
Molecular Cytogenetic Identification of the Wheat–Dasypyrum villosum T3DL·3V#3S Translocation Line with Resistance against Stripe Rust
Authors: Zhang Jie , Tang Shuyao , Lang Tao , Wang Ying , Long Hai , Deng Guangbing , Chen Qian , Guo Yuanlin , Xuan Pu , Xiao Jun , Jiang Yun
Published: May 2022

The annual species Dasypyrum villosum possesses several potentially valuable genes for the improvement of common wheat. Previously, we identified a new stripe rust-resistant line, the Chinese Spring (CS)–D. villosum 3V#3 (3D) substitution line (named CD-3), and mapped its potential rust resistance gene (designated as YrCD-3) on the 3V#3 chromosome originating from D. villosum. The objective of the present study was to further narrow down the YrCD-3 locus to a physical region and develop wheat-3V#3 introgression lines with strong stripe rust resistance. By treating CD-3 seeds with 60Co γ-irradiation, two CS-3V#3 translocation lines, T3V#3S.3DL and T3DS.3V#3L (termed 22-12 and 24-20, respectively), were identified from the M4 generation through a combination of non-denaturing fluorescence in situ hybridization (ND-FISH) and functional molecular markers. Stripe rust resistance tests showed that the line 22-12 exhibited strong stripe rust resistance similarly to CD-3, whereas 24-20 was susceptible to stripe rust similarly to CS, indicating that YrCD-3 is located on the short arm of 3V#3. The line 22-12 can potentially be used for further wheat improvement. Additionally, to trace 3V#3 in the wheat genetic background, we produced 30 3V#3-specific sequence tag (EST) markers, among which, 11 markers could identify 3V#3S. These markers could be valuable in fine-mapping YrCD-3.
Genetic Improvement of Wheat for Drought Tolerance: Progress, Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Bapela Theresa , Shimelis Hussein , Tsilo Toi John , Mathew Isack
Published: May 2022

Wheat production and productivity are challenged by recurrent droughts associated with climate change globally. Drought and heat stress resilient cultivars can alleviate yield loss in marginal production agro-ecologies. The ability of some crop genotypes to thrive and yield in drought conditions is attributable to the inherent genetic variation and environmental adaptation, presenting opportunities to develop drought-tolerant varieties. Understanding the underlying genetic, physiological, biochemical, and environmental mechanisms and their interactions is key critical opportunity for drought tolerance improvement. Therefore, the objective of this review is to document the progress, challenges, and opportunities in breeding for drought tolerance in wheat. The paper outlines the following key aspects: (1) challenges associated with breeding for adaptation to drought-prone environments, (2) opportunities such as genetic variation in wheat for drought tolerance, selection methods, the interplay between above-ground phenotypic traits and root attributes in drought adaptation and drought-responsive attributes and (3) approaches, technologies and innovations in drought tolerance breeding. In the end, the paper summarises genetic gains and perspectives in drought tolerance breeding in wheat. The review will serve as baseline information for wheat breeders and agronomists to guide the development and deployment of drought-adapted and high-performing new-generation wheat varieties.
Enhancement of Mechanical and Bond Properties of Epoxy Adhesives Modified by SiO2 Nanoparticles with Active Groups
Authors: Long Jiejie , Li Chuanxi , Li You
Published: May 2022

In order to improve the mechanical and bond properties of epoxy adhesives for their wide scope of applications, modified epoxy adhesives were produced in this study with SiO2 nanoparticles of 20 nm in size, including inactive groups, NH2 active groups, and C4H8 active groups. The mechanical properties of specimens were examined, and an investigation was conducted into the effects of epoxy adhesive modified by three kinds of SiO2 nanoparticles on the bond properties of carbon fiber reinforced polymer and steel (CFRP/steel) double lap joints. According to scanning electron microscopy (SEM), the distribution effect in epoxy adhesive of SiO2 nanoparticles modified by active groups was better than that of inactive groups. When the mass fraction of SiO2-C4H8 nanoparticles was 0.05%, the tensile strength, tensile modulus, elongation at break, bending strength, flexural modulus, and impact strength of the epoxy adhesives reached their maximum, which were 47.63%, 44.81%, 57.31%, 62.17%, 33.72%, 78.89%, and 68.86% higher than that of the EP, respectively, and 8.45%, 9.52%, 9.24%, 20.22%, 17.76%, 20.18%, and 12.65% higher than that of the inactive groups of SiO2 nanoparticles, respectively. The SiO2 nanoparticles modified with NH2 or C4H8 active groups were effective in improving the ultimate load-bearing capacity and bond properties of epoxy adhesives glued to CFRP/steel double lap joints, thus increasing the strain and interface shear stress peak value of the CFRP surface.
Effect of Sparger Characteristics on Bubble-Formation Dynamics under Oscillatory Air Pattern
Authors: Song Ajuan , Zhao Sijia , Cao Yijun , Li Chao
Published: May 2022

The size of bubbles generated from a porous sparger is at least an order of magnitude larger than the pore diameter under the steady air pattern. Recent studies have shown that the bubble size can be significantly reduced when the steady air flow is replaced by an oscillatory pattern. However, the effectiveness of oscillatory air flow on reducing bubble size under different sparger characteristics is yet to be studied. This work fundamentally investigates the response of bubble size to sparger characteristics under an oscillatory air pattern by segregating the bubble formation subprocesses into bubble detachment and consequent coalescence. The results show that bubble size significantly decreased with hydrophilic plates regardless of contact angle, owing to depressed coalescence, while no impact was observed for a hydrophobic plate. The influence of the oscillatory air pattern on decreasing bubble size was weakened as the chamber volume was increased, and above a critical volume the bubble-formation process became similar with that under a steady air pattern. An optimum plate thickness was obtained for bubble generation by avoiding weeping, and meanwhile taking full advantage of the momentum force by the oscillatory airflow. The outcomes show that the oscillatory air pattern in determining bubble formation closely depends on the sparger characteristics, which should be appropriately determined.
From State Control to Regulation to Privatization of Religion–State Relations in Israel: Kashrut Reform as a Case-Study
Authors: Perez Nahshon , Rosman Elisheva
Published: May 2022

Religion–state relations in Israel have been defined as following the status-quo agreement. This agreement, going back to the founding of Israel, allows recognized religious groups a monopoly regarding issues of personal status, and promises religious goods and exemptions to such groups (mainly, but not limited, to Orthodox Judaism). Since the mid 1980s, Israel has changed its economic policies, from a centralized economy to a privatized, liberalized system. This economic change introduced significant shifts within Israeli society. These include major recent changes in religion–state relations, most importantly the reform in kashrut certification, and growing commercial activity during the Sabbath. Such changes demonstrate a dynamic of state retreat, from a direct statist provision of religious goods, to the state either retreating completely, or re-situating itself as a regulatory organ. Using the kashrut reform as a case study, we suggest that the status-quo model can no longer adequately define religion–state relations in Israel, and is being replaced by a hybrid model, which includes libertarian, regulation-based, and the noted status quo attributes. We conclude with noting the significance of this development for the Jewish character of Israel.
A Method of Soil Moisture Content Estimation at Various Soil Organic Matter Conditions Based on Soil Reflectance
Authors: Li Tianchen , Mu Tianhao , Liu Guiwei , Yang Xiguang , Zhu Gechun , Shang Chuqing
Published: May 2022

Soil moisture is one of the most important components of all the soil properties affecting the global hydrologic cycle. Optical remote sensing technology is one of the main parts of soil moisture estimation. In this study, we promote a soil moisture-estimating method with applications regarding various soil organic matters. The results indicate that the soil organic matter had a significant spectral feature at wavelengths larger than 900 nm. The existence of soil organic matter would lead to darker soil, and this feature was similar to the soil moisture. Meanwhile, the effect of the soil organic matter on its reflectance overlaps with the effect of soil moisture on its reflected spectrum. This can lead to the underestimation of the soil moisture content, with an MRE of 21.87%. To reduce this effect, the absorption of the soil organic matter was considered based on the Lambert–Beer law. Then, we established an SMCg-estimating model based on the radiative transform theory while considering the effect of the soil organic matter. The results showed that the effect of the soil organic matter can be effectively reduced and the accuracy of the soil moisture estimation was increased, while MRE decreased from 21.87% to 6.53%.
The Impact of Digital Elevation Model Preprocessing and Detection Methods on Karst Depression Mapping in Densely Forested Dinaric Mountains
Authors: Ciglič Rok , Čonč Špela , Breg Valjavec Mateja
Published: May 2022

Karst landscapes have an abundance of enclosed depressions. Many studies have detected depressions and have calculated geomorphometric characteristics with computer techniques. These outcomes are somewhat determined by the methods and data used. We aim to highlight the applicability of high-resolution relief laser scanning data in geomorphological studies of karst depressions. We set two goals: geomorphometrically to characterize depressions in different karst plateaus and to examine the influence of data preprocessing and detection methods on the results. The study was performed in three areas of the Slovene Dinaric Karst using the following steps: preprocessing digital elevation models (DEMs), enclosed depression detection, calculating geomorphometric characteristics, and comparing the characteristics of selected areas. We discovered that different combinations of methods influenced the number and geomorphometric characteristics of depressions. The range of detected depressions in the three areas were 442–491, 364–403, and 366–504, and the share of the depressions’ area confirmed with all the approaches was 23%, 29%, and 47%, which resulted in different geomorphometric properties. Comparisons between the study areas were also influenced by the methods, which was confirmed by the Mann–Whitney test. We concluded that preprocessing of high-resolution relief data and the detection methods in karst environments significantly impact analyses and must be taken into account when interpreting geomorphometric results.