bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analytical Determination and Influence Analysis of Stiffness Matrix of Ball Bearing under Different Load Conditions
Authors: Niu Qingbo , Li Yeteng , Zhu Yongsheng , Pei Shiyuan , Yin Yanjing , Wang Dongfeng
Published: March 2022

Bearing stiffness, as one of the most important service characteristics for ball bearing, plays a crucial role in the bearing design and rotor dynamic analysis. To rapidly and accurately calculate the stiffness matrix of ball bearing under the arbitrary load conditions, a 5-DOF analytical model for bearing stiffness matrix analysis has been established by the ball–raceway contact analysis, implicit/explicit differential method, and matrix operations. The model has been validated comparing with the previous methods and experimental results. Based on this, the model has been used to investigate the influences of the load and operation conditions, the structural parameters variation on stiffness of ball bearing. The results show that property increasing axial preload can inhibit the attenuation of speed-varying stiffness, and the contact states between balls and raceways also have significant influence on the change in the stiffness of ball bearings. Besides, a larger curvature coefficient of inner raceway and a small curvature coefficient of outer raceway can effectively improve the stiffness of ball bearing at high speed. Therefore, the proposed method can be a useful tool in bearing optimize design and performance analysis of ball and rotor system under various load conditions.
Advances in Antiferromagnetic Spintronics
Authors: Hirohata Atsufumi
Published: March 2022

Magnetoresistance (MR) controls signal-to-noise ratios and the corresponding size of conventional spintronic devices [...]
Improved Hille Oscillation Criteria for Nonlinear Functional Dynamic Equations of Third-Order
Authors: Hassan Taher S. , Ramadan Rabie A. , Alsheekhhussain Zainab , Khedr Ahmed Y. , Menaem Amir Abdel , Odinaev Ismoil
Published: March 2022

This paper aims to improve Hille oscillation criteria for the third-order functional dynamic equation p2(ξ)ϕγ2p1ξϕγ1yΔ(ξ)ΔΔ+a(ξ)ϕγy(g(ξ))=0, on an above-unbounded time scale T. The obtained results improve related contributions reported in the literature without restrictive conditions on the time scales. To demonstrate the essential results, an example is presented.
Proper ARMA Modeling and Forecasting in the Generalized Segre’s Quaternions Domain
Authors: Navarro-Moreno Jesús , Fernández-Alcalá Rosa M. , Ruiz-Molina Juan C.
Published: March 2022

The analysis of time series in 4D commutative hypercomplex algebras is introduced. Firstly, generalized Segre’s quaternion (GSQ) random variables and signals are studied. Then, two concepts of properness are suggested and statistical tests to check if a GSQ random vector is proper or not are proposed. Further, a method to determine in which specific hypercomplex algebra is most likely to achieve, if possible, the properness properties is given. Next, both the linear estimation and prediction problems are studied in the GSQ domain. Finally, ARMA modeling and forecasting for proper GSQ time series are tackled. Experimental results show the superiority of the proposed approach over its counterpart in the Hamilton quaternion domain.
Logics of Statements in Context-Category Independent Basics
Authors: Wolter Uwe
Published: March 2022

Based on a formalization of open formulas as statements in context, the paper presents a freshly new and abstract view of logics and specification formalisms. Generalizing concepts like sets of generators in Group Theory, underlying graph of a sketch in Category Theory, sets of individual names in Description Logic and underlying graph-based structure of a software model in Software Engineering, we coin an abstract concept of context. We show how to define, in a category independent way, arbitrary first-order statements in arbitrary contexts. Examples of those statements are defining relations in Group Theory, commutative, limit and colimit diagrams in Category Theory, assertional axioms in Description Logic and constraints in Software Engineering. To validate the appropriateness of the newly proposed abstract framework, we prove that our category independent definitions and constructions give us a very broad spectrum of Institutions of Statements at hand. For any Institution of Statements, a specification (presentation) is given by a context together with a set of first-order statements in that context. Since many of our motivating examples are variants of sketches, we will simply use the term sketch for those specifications. We investigate exhaustively different kinds of arrows between sketches and their interrelations. To pave the way for a future development of category independent deduction calculi for sketches, we define arbitrary first-order sketch conditions and corresponding sketch constraints as a generalization of graph conditions and graph constraints, respectively. Sketch constraints are the crucial conceptual tool to describe and reason about the structure of sketches. We close the paper with some vital observations, insights and ideas related to future deduction calculi for sketches. Moreover, we outline that our universal method to define sketch constraints enables us to establish and to work with conceptual hierarchies of sketches.
Construction of Cubic Trigonometric Curves with an Application of Curve Modelling
Authors: Majeed Abdul , Naureen Mehwish , Abbas Muhammad , Miura Kenjiro
Published: March 2022

This paper introduces new trigonometric basis functions (TBF) in polynomial and rational form with two shape parameters (SPs). Some classical characteristics, such as the partition of unity, positivity, symmetry, CHP, local control and invariance under affine transformation properties are proven mathematically and graphically. In addition, different continuity conditions at uniform knots (UK) are proven. Some open and closed curves from TBS and trigonometric rational B-spline (TRBS) are generated to test the applicability of the suggested technique, and the influence of the shape parameter is also noted. Furthermore, various objects, such as designing an alphabet, star, butterfly, leaf and 3D cube.
Investigation of Terrorist Organizations Using Intelligent Tools: A Dynamic Network Analysis with Weighted Links
Authors: Spyropoulos Alexandros Z. , Bratsas Charalampos , Makris Georgios C. , Ioannidis Evangelos , Tsiantos Vassilis , Antoniou Ioannis
Published: March 2022

Law enforcement authorities deal with terrorism in two ways: prevention and legal procedures to establish the offence of forming a terrorist organization. Setting up the offence of a terrorist organization requires proof that the members of the organization acquire distinct roles in the organization. Until today, this procedure has been based on unreliable, biased or subjective witness statements, resulting in questionable criminal court proceedings. A quantitative, unbiased methodology based on Network Theory is proposed in order to address three research questions: “How can the presence of distinct roles among the members of a terrorist organization be revealed?”, “Is the presence of distinct roles related to terrorist activity?”and “Are there early signs of imminent terrorist activity?”. These questions are addressed using selected global indices from network theory: density, small worldness, centralization, average centrality and standard deviation of centrality. These indices are computed for four real networks of terrorist organizations from four different countries.
The Effect of Alpha Neurofeedback Training on Cognitive Performance in Healthy Adults
Authors: Nawaz Rab , Nisar Humaira , Yap Vooi Voon , Tsai Chi-Yi
Published: March 2022

This study investigates the effect of long-term alpha neurofeedback training (NFT) in healthy adults using music stimuli. The optimal protocol for future research is presented in this study. The data from 40 healthy participants, divided into two groups (NFT group and Control group), were analyzed in the current study. We found a significantly enhanced alpha rhythm after training in the NFT group which was not observed in the control group. The immediate subsequent effects were greater in more than 80% of the sessions from the initial recordings. Stroop task and behavioral questionnaires, mini-mental state exam (MMSE), and perceived stress scale (PSS) did not reveal any training-specific changes. Within-training session effects were significant from the baseline and were more pronounced at the beginning of the session as compared to the end of the session. It is also observed that a shorter session length with multiple sessions may be more effective than a long and continuous run of a single session.
Fast Solutions for Large Reynold’s Number in a Closed-Loop Thermosyphon with Binary Fluid
Authors: Jiménez-Casas Ángela , Villanueva-Pesqueira Manuel
Published: March 2022

In this work, we analyze the asymptotic behavior of the solutions for a thermosyphon model where a binary fluid is considered, a fluid containing a soluble substance, and the Reynold’s number is large. The presented results are a generalization, in some sense, of the results for a fluid with only one component provided in Velázquez 1994 and RodrÍguez-Bernal and Van Vleck 1998. We characterize the conditions under which a fast time-dependent solution exits and it is attracted towards a fast stationary solution as the Reynold’s number tends to infinity. Numerical experiments were performed in order to illustrate the theoretical results. Using numerical simulations, we found fast time-dependent solutions close enough to the fast stationary one for certain values of the parameters.
Modeling Local Variations in Intermarriage
Authors: Esteve Albert , Chasco Coro , López-Gay Antonio
Published: March 2022

We utilized all Spanish marriage records available at the municipality level from 2005–2007 to model spatial variations in intermarriage. We constructed a spatial regime zero-inflated Poisson model and grouped-data probit model, with spatially lagged regressors, to predict the absolute and relative presence of intermarriage between Spaniards and migrants based on structural characteristics of the local marriage markets and their neighboring areas (i.e., relative group size, homogeneity of national origins, and sex ratio indicators). Our models do not assume collapsibility of the marriage market. Instead, they incorporate the local dimension of the marriage market and examine the association between intermarriage and structural variables at the spatial local level. The model also investigates intermarriage variation by size of place. The local characteristics of the marriage markets are robust indicators of both the absolute and relative importance of intermarriage, but their impact varies by size of municipality. The relative size of the migrant community positively impacts intermarriage. The homogeneity of the origins of migrants is negatively related to it. The impact of sex ratios in the migrant and native communities on intermarriage is not uniform across all municipalities and is not always related to more intermarriage.
Evaluation on Flexibility of Phenomenological Hardening Law for Automotive Sheet Metals
Authors: Pham Quoc Tuan , Kim Young-Suk
Published: March 2022

Constitutive modeling of sheet metals involves building a system of equations governing the material behavior under multi-axial stress states. In general, these equations require a hardening law that describes the stress-strain relationship. This study provides a thorough examination of the existing phenomenological hardening laws in the literature. Based on their ordinary differential equations, special efforts were made to discuss the degree of flexibility of these hardening laws. Four new phenomenological hardening laws were proposed during the discussions to capture the stress-strain relationship of automotive sheet metals, such as aluminum alloy and steel sheets. Then, applications of 18 hardening laws for fitting the uniaxial tensile stress-strain data of 12 automotive sheet metals were thoroughly compared. The comparisons reveal that the proposed hardening laws capture well the experimental stress strain data of all examined materials. Compared to several combined hardening laws, the proposed functions have comparable flexibility but require fewer parameters.
Volatilomics-Based Microbiome Evaluation of Fermented Dairy by Prototypic Headspace-Gas Chromatography–High-Temperature Ion Mobility Spectrometry (HS-GC-HTIMS) and Non-Negative Matrix Factorization (NNMF)
Authors: Capitain Charlotte C. , Nejati Fatemeh , Zischka Martin , Berzak Markus , Junne Stefan , Neubauer Peter , Weller Philipp
Published: March 2022

Fermented foods, such as yogurt and kefir, contain a versatile spectrum of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including ethanol, acetic acid, ethyl acetate, and diacetyl. To overcome the challenge of overlapping peaks regarding these key compounds, the drift tube temperature was raised in a prototypic high-temperature ion mobility spectrometer (HTIMS). This HS-GC-HTIMS was used for the volatilomic profiling of 33 traditional kefir, 13 commercial kefir, and 15 commercial yogurt samples. Pattern recognition techniques, including principal component analysis (PCA) and NNMF, in combination with non-targeted screening, revealed distinct differences between traditional and commercial kefir while showing strong similarities between commercial kefir and yogurt. Classification of fermented dairy samples into commercial yogurt, commercial kefir, traditional mild kefir, and traditional tangy kefir was also possible for both PCA- and NNMF-based models, obtaining cross-validation (CV) error rates of 0% for PCA-LDA, PCA-kNN (k = 5), and NNMF-kNN (k = 5) and 3.3% for PCA-SVM and NNMF-LDA. Through back projection of NNMF loadings, characteristic substances were identified, indicating a mild flavor composition of commercial samples, with high concentrations of buttery-flavored diacetyl. In contrast, traditional kefir showed a diverse VOC profile with high amounts of flavorful alcohols (including ethanol and methyl-1-butanol), esters (including ethyl acetate and 3-methylbutyl acetate), and aldehydes. For validation of the results and deeper understanding, qPCR sequencing was used to evaluate the microbial consortia, confirming the microbial associations between commercial kefir and commercial yogurt and reinforcing the differences between traditional and commercial kefir. The diverse flavor profile of traditional kefir primarily results from the yeast consortium, while commercial kefir and yogurt is primarily, but not exclusively, produced through bacterial fermentation. The flavor profile of fermented dairy products may be used to directly evaluate the microbial consortium using HS-GC-HTIMS analysis.
Particle Manipulation in 2D Space Using a Capacitive Micromachined Ultrasonic Transducer
Authors: Lee Chang , Park Beom , Kim Young , Jo Hyeong , Park Kwan
Published: March 2022

Ultrasonic particle manipulation is a noncontact method for controlling microscale objects, such as cells or microparticles, using an acoustic field. In this study, a 2D array of capacitive micromachined ultrasonic transducers (CMUTs), placed horizontally in immersion, generated ultrasonic waves in the vertical direction, and the oil’s surface increased due to the radiation force of the ultrasonic waves. In addition, the radiation force directly exerted a force on a floating particle. By measuring the movement of the reflected laser light by the moving oil surface, the height of the oil’s surface deformed by the acoustic radiation force (ARF) was measured. The ARF made a floating particle, as well as the oil’s surface, move. The particle moved radially away from the surface position above the transducer, and its velocity was determined by its position on the fluid’s surface. When a single channel was operated, it moved 0.4 mm at an average speed of 90 μm/s, and when two adjacent channels were operated, it moved 1.2 mm at a speed of 272 μm/s. The particles moved in any direction on the surface of the oil by controlling the actuation channel using an electrical switch.
Melanin Pathway Determination in Sclerotium cepivorum Berk Using Spectrophotometric Assays, Inhibition Compound, and Protein Validation
Authors: Salazar-García Luis M. , Ortega-Cuevas Rocío Ivette , Martínez-Álvarez José A. , González-Hernández Sandra E. , Martínez-Álvarez Román Antonio , Mendoza-Olivares Diana , Vázquez Miguel Ángel , Flores-Martínez Alberto , Ponce-Noyola Patricia
Published: March 2022

Sclerotium cepivorum Berk is the etiological agent of white rot disease that affects plants of the genus Allium. This fungus produces resistance structures called sclerotia that are formed by a rolled mycelium with a thick layer of melanin and it can remain dormant for many years in the soil. Current interest in S. cepivorum has arisen from economic losses in Allium crops in the agricultural sector. Melanin is a component that protects the sclerotia from adverse environmental conditions In many organisms, it plays an important role in the infectious process; in S. cepivorum, the pathway by which this component is synthetized is not fully described. By using infrared spectrophotometric assays applied direct to the sclerotia and a melanin extract followed by an NMR analysis and a tricyclazole melanin inhibition experiment, it allowed us to determine the dihydroxynaphthalene (DHN)-melanin pathway by which S. cepivorum performs its melanin synthesis. Moreover, we focused on studying scytalone dehydratase (SDH) as a key enzyme of the DHN-melanin synthesis. We obtained the recombinant SDH enzyme and tested its activity by a zymogram assay. Thereby, the S. cepivorum melanogenic route was established as a DHN pathway.
Record-Breaking Rain Event Altered Estuarine Viral Assemblages
Authors: Woods Alaina C. , Walker Jordan R. , Jackson Cameron D. , Labonté Jessica M.
Published: March 2022

Viruses are the dominant biological entity in the ocean, play a vital role in biogeochemical cycles, and provide their hosts with novel metabolic capabilities through auxiliary metabolic genes (AMGs). Hurricane Harvey was a category 4 hurricane that made landfall on the Texas coast in 2017 and lashed the Houston area with 1.4–1.7 × 1010 m3 of rainfall. In this paper, we aim to characterize how the changes in abiotic conditions brought by Hurricane Harvey altered the viral assemblages of Galveston Bay at the taxonomic level and determine how viral ecosystem functions were altered. Metagenomes of the viruses and their hosts were sequenced from a transect in Galveston Bay over the five weeks following the storm. Our results show that the viral assemblages of Galveston Bay dramatically changed following Hurricane Harvey’s landfall. Of the abiotic parameters measured, salinity had the strongest effect on shaping the viral assemblages. In the five weeks following Hurricane Harvey, there was a steady increase of metabolic genes and putative viral infections. Our study provides the first in-depth look at how marine viral assemblages respond and recover from extreme rainfall events, which models predict will become more frequent and intense with climate change.
Deciphering the Microbiota and Volatile Profiles of Algerian Smen, a Traditional Fermented Butter
Authors: Boussekine Rania , Bekhouche Farida , Debaets Stella , Thierry Anne , Maillard Marie-Bernadette , Falentin Hélène , Pawtowski Audrey , Barkat Malika , Coton Monika , Mounier Jérôme
Published: March 2022

In Algeria, Smen is a fermented butter produced in households using empirical methods. Smen fermentation is driven by autochthonous microorganisms; it improves butter shelf-life and yields highly fragrant products used as ingredients in traditional dishes as well as in traditional medicine. The present study is aimed at investigating microbial diversity and dynamics during Algerian Smen fermentation using both culture-dependent and culture-independent approaches, as well as by monitoring volatile organic compound production. To reach this goal, fifteen Smen samples (final products) produced in households from different regions in Algeria were collected and analyzed. In addition, microbial and volatile compound dynamics at the different stages of Smen manufacturing were investigated for one Smen preparation. The results showed that Smen is a microbiologically safe product, as all hygiene and safety criteria were respected. The dominant microorganisms identified by both techniques were LAB and yeasts. Lactococcus spp. and Streptococcus thermophilus were the main bacterial species involved in spontaneous raw milk fermentation preceding butter-making, while lactobacilli and enterococci were the only bacteria found to be viable during Smen maturation. Regarding fungal diversity, yeast species were only recovered from two mature Smen samples by culturing, while different species (e.g., Geotrichum candidum, Moniliella sp.) were identified in all samples by the culture-independent approach. Using microbial analysis of a single batch, many of these were found viable during manufacturing. Concerning the volatile profiles, they were highly diverse and characterized by a high prevalence of short chain fatty acids, methylketones, and esters. Correlation analysis between microbial diversity and volatile profiles showed that several yeast (Moniliella sp., K. marxianus) and LAB (e.g., Lactococcus spp., S. thermophilus) species were strongly correlated with one or more volatile organic compound families, including several ethyl esters and methyl ketones that can be linked to pleasant, sweetly floral, fruity, buttery, and creamy odors. This study clearly identified key microorganisms involved in Smen fermentation and maturation that could be used in the future for better fermentation control and improvement of quality attributes.
Fecal Filobasidium Is Associated with Clinical Remission and Endoscopic Response following Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in Mild-to-Moderate Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: van Thiel Isabelle A. M. , Rahman Shafaque , Hakvoort Theodorus B. M. , Davids Mark , Verseijden Caroline , van Hamersveld Patricia H. P. , Bénard Mèlanie V. , Lodders Maarten H. , Boekhout Teun , van den Wijngaard René M. , Heinsbroek Sigrid E. M. , Ponsioen Cyriel Y. , de Jonge Wouter J.
Published: March 2022

Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has the potential to restore (bacterial and fungal) microbial imbalance in ulcerative colitis (UC) patients and contribute to disease remission. Here, we aimed to identify fecal fungal species associated with the induction of clinical remission and endoscopic response to FMT for patients with mild-to-moderate ulcerative colitis. We analyzed the internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS1)-based mycobiota composition in fecal samples from patients (n = 31) and donors (n = 7) that participated previously in a double-blinded randomized control trial evaluating the efficacy of two infusions of donor FMT compared with autologous FMT. The abundance of the yeast genus Filobasidium in fecal material used for transplantation was shown to correlate with clinical remission following FMT, irrespective of its presence in the material of donor or autologous fecal microbiota transfer. The amplified sequence variants within the genus Filobasidium most closely resembled Filobasidium magnum. Monocyte-derived macrophages and HT29 epithelial cells were stimulated with fungal species. Especially Filobasidium floriforme elicited an IL10 response in monocyte-derived macrophages, along with secretion of other cytokines following stimulation with other Filobasidium species. No effect of Filobasidium spp. was seen on epithelial wound healing in scratch assays. In conclusion, the enriched presence of Filobasidium spp. in donor feces is associated with the positive response to FMT for patients with UC and hence it may serve as a predictive fungal biomarker for successful FMT.
Chiral Recognition of Amino Acid Esters in Organic Solvents Using a Glucose-Based Receptor
Authors: Mönkemöller Leah Susanne , Schnurr Martin , Lewandowski Bartosz
Published: March 2022

Due to the chemical and biological relevance of amino acids, efficient methods for the recognition and separation of their enantiomers are highly sought after. Chiral receptors based on extended molecular scaffolds are typically employed for this purpose. These receptors are often effective only in specific environments and towards a narrow scope of amino acid guests. Recently we reported a simple, glucose-based macrocycle capable of enantioselective binding of a broad range of amino acid methyl esters in water. Herein we demonstrate that the same receptor can be used for chiral recognition of amino acid esters in organic solvents. We show that the binding affinity and selectivity of the receptor are highly dependent on the coordinating strength of the solvent. An in-depth analysis of the receptor’s conformation and its interactions with amino acid methyl esters allowed us to propose a binding mode of amino acids to the receptor in CDCl3. The binding modes in CDCl3 and D2O were then compared, highlighting the main interactions responsible for binding affinity and selectivity in each solvent. We envision that the insight provided by this study will facilitate the development of further amino acid receptors based on monosaccharides with improved binding affinities and both enantio- as well as chemoselectivities.
Calceolarioside A, a Phenylpropanoid Glycoside from Calceolaria spp., Displays Antinociceptive and Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Authors: Pieretti Stefano , Saviano Anella , Mollica Adriano , Stefanucci Azzurra , Aloisi Anna Maria , Nicoletti Marcello
Published: March 2022

Phenylpropanoid glycosides are a class of natural substances of plant origin with interesting biological activities and pharmacological properties. This study reports the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects of calceolarioside A, a phenylpropanoid glycoside previously isolated from various Calceolaria species. In models of acute nociception induced by thermal stimuli, such as the hot plate and tail flick test, calceolarioside administered at doses of 1, 5, and 10 μg in the left cerebral ventricles did not modify the behavioral response of mice. In an inflammatory based persistent pain model as the formalin test, calceolarioside A at the high dose tested (100 μg/paw) reduced the licking activity induced by formalin by 35% in the first phase and by 75% in the second phase of the test. In carrageenan-induced thermal hyperalgesia, calceolarioside A (50 and 100 μg/paw) was able to significantly reverse thermal hyperalgesia induced by carrageenan. The anti-inflammatory activity of calceolarioside A was then assessed using the zymosan-induced paw edema model. Calceolarioside A (50 and 100 μg/paw) induced a significant reduction in the edema from 1 to 4 h after zymosan administration. Measuring IL-6, TNFα, and IL-1β pro-inflammatory cytokines released from LPS-stimulated THP-1 cells, calceolarioside A in a concentration-dependent manner reduced the release of these cytokines from THP-1 cells. Taken together, our results highlight, for the first time, the potential and selective anti-inflammatory properties of this natural-derived compound, prompting its rationale use for further investigations.
Optimization of the Conditions of Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLN) Synthesis
Authors: Musielak Ewelina , Feliczak-Guzik Agnieszka , Nowak Izabela
Published: March 2022

Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) have been synthesized as potential drug delivery systems. They are classified as solid lipid nanocarriers that can successfully carry both hydrophilic and hydrophobic drugs. SLNs are based on a biocompatible lipid matrix that is enzymatically degraded into natural components found in the human body. Solid lipid nanoparticles are suitable for the incorporation of hydrophobic active ingredients such as curcumin. The study included the optimization of lipid nanoparticle composition, incorporation of the active compound (curcumin), a stability evaluation of the obtained nanocarriers and characterization of their lipid matrix. Through process optimization, a dispersion of solid lipid nanoparticles (solid lipid:surfactant—2:1.25 weight ratio) predisposed to the incorporation of curcumin was developed. The encapsulation efficiency of the active ingredient was determined to be 99.80%. In stability studies, it was found that the most suitable conditions for conducting high-pressure homogenization are 300 bar pressure, three cycles and a closed-loop system. This yields the required values of the physicochemical parameters (a particle size within a 200–450 nm range; a polydispersity index of <30%; and a zeta potential of about |±30 mV|). In this work, closed-loop high-pressure homogenization was used for the first time and compared to the currently preferred open-loop method.
Dissipation Behavior and Acute Dietary Risk Assessment of Thiamethoxam and Its Metabolite Clothianidin on Spinach
Authors: Yang Yanmei , Qin Shu , Wang Xia , Cao Junli , Li Jindong
Published: March 2022

Thiamethoxam and its metabolite clothianidin residues pose a potential threat to human health. This study aims to investigate the residue behavior and acute dietary risk assessment of thiamethoxam and clothianidin on spinach. Thiamethoxam and clothianidin were extracted using a quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, safe (QuEChERS) method and analyzed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). At spike levels from 0.01 to 5 mg kg−1, the average recoveries of both analytes were in the range of 94.5–105.5%, with relative standard deviations (RSDs) of 3.8–10.9%. The dissipation behavior of thiamethoxam followed first-order kinetics, with half-lives of ≤1.6 days. Clothianidin appeared readily as a plant metabolite with highest level exhibited during 3 to 5 days after application. Temperature and light may be two main factors for degradation of thiamethoxam. Besides, acute risk assessment of thiamethoxam and clothianidin was evaluated with risk quotients (RQs) <100%, which suggested a low health risk for all consumer groups of Chinese residents.
Positive Association between Aqueous Humor Hydroxylinoleate Levels and Intraocular Pressure
Authors: Umeno Aya , Yoshida Yasukazu , Kaidzu Sachiko , Tanito Masaki
Published: March 2022

We previously proposed the total assessment of hydroxylinoleates (HODEs) by LC-MS/MS after saponification and reduction of the biologic samples as biomarkers to investigate pathogenesis, disease progression, and prognosis. In this study, HODE levels were estimated in aqueous humor (AH) samples from 63 eyes (41 Japanese subjects; 15 men; mean age, 77.3 ± 6.8 years) with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) or cataracts. The correlations between intraocular HODE levels and background parameters, including intraocular pressure (IOP), were analyzed to assess the possible involvement of oxidative stress in glaucoma pathology. Univariate analyses showed that linoleic acid (LA) (p = 0.034) and arachidonic acid (AA) (p = 0.0041) levels were associated negatively with age; 13-(Z,E)-HODE (p = 0.018) and 13-(E,E)-HODE (p = 0.021) were associated positively with IOP; 9-(Z,E)-HODE (p = 0.039), 13-(Z,E)-HODE (p = 0.021), totally assessed-HODE (t-HODE, p = 0.023), LA (p = 0.0080), and AA (p = 0.0051) were higher in eyes with glaucoma than cataract. No gender differences were seen. A mixed-effect regression model showed that higher 13-(Z,E)-HODE (p = 0.0040) and higher t-HODE (p = 0.040) were associated with glaucoma rather than cataracts; and higher levels of 13-(Z,E)-HODE/LA (p = 0.043), 13-(E,E)-HODE/LA (p = 0.042), 13-(Z,E)-HODE (p = 0.0054), and 13-(E,E)-HODE (p = 0.027) were associated with higher IOP. Linoleate-derived oxidation products were quantified successfully in AH samples from patients with glaucoma and cataracts. A free radical oxidation mechanism can be associated with IOP elevation, while enzymatic oxidation may be involved, specifically, in the pathogenesis of POAG.
UHPLC-ESI-QqTOF Analysis and In Vitro Rumen Fermentation for Exploiting Fagus sylvatica Leaf in Ruminant Diet
Authors: Formato Marialuisa , Piccolella Simona , Zidorn Christian , Vastolo Alessandro , Calabrò Serena , Cutrignelli Monica Isabella , Pacifico Severina
Published: March 2022

In recent years, animal husbandry has aimed at improving the conditions of livestock animals useful for humans to solve environmental and health problems. The formulation of animal feeds or supplements based on antioxidant plant compounds is considered a valuable approach and an alternative for livestock productivity. Forest biomass materials are an underestimated source of polyphenolic compounds whose sustainable recovery could provide direct benefits to animals and, indirectly, human nutrition. In this context, an alcohol extract from leaves of Fagus sylvatica L. was first investigated through an untargeted ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS/MS) approach. Then, it was fractionated into a fatty acid-rich and a polyphenolic fraction, as evidenced by total lipid, phenol, and flavonoid content assays, with antiradical and reducing activity positively correlated to the latter. When tested in vitro with rumen liquor to evaluate changes in the fermentative parameters, a significant detrimental effect was exerted by the lipid-rich fraction, whereas the flavonoid-rich one positively modulated the production of volatile fatty acids (i.e., acetate, butyrate, propionate, etc.).
The Thermal Characteristics, Sorption Isotherms and State Diagrams of the Freeze-Dried Pumpkin-Inulin Powders
Authors: Stępień Anna , Witczak Mariusz , Witczak Teresa
Published: March 2022

Powders based on plant raw materials have low storage stability due to their sorption and thermal properties and generate problems during processing. Therefore, there is a need to find carrier agents to improve their storage life as well as methods to evaluate their properties during storage. Water adsorption isotherms and thermal characteristics of the pumpkin powder with various inulin additions were investigated in order to develop state diagrams. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was used to obtained glass transition lines, freezing curves and maximal-freeze-concentration conditions. The glass transition lines were developed using the Gordon–Taylor model. Freezing data were modeled employing the Clausius–Clapeyron equation and its development–Chen model. The glass transition temperature of anhydrous material (Tgs) and characteristic glass transition temperature of maximum-freeze-concentration (Tg′) increased with growing inulin additions. Sorption isotherms of the powders were determined at 25 °C by the static-gravimetric method and the experimental data was modeled with four different mathematical models. The Peleg model was the most adequate to describe the sorption data of the pumpkin–inulin powders. Guggenheim-Anderson-de Boer (GAB) monolayer capacity decreased with increasing inulin concentration in the sample.
First Principle Study on Electronic and Transport Properties of Finite-Length Nanoribbons and Nanodiscs for Selected Two-Dimensional Materials
Authors: Jafari Mirali , Dyrdał Anna
Published: March 2022

Using the density functional theory, we calculate electronic states of various nanoribbons and nanodiscs formed from selected two-dimensional materials, such as graphene, silicene, and hexagonal boron nitride. The main objective of the analysis is a search for zero-energy states in such systems, which is an important issue as their presence indicates certain topological properties associated with chirality. The analysis is also supported by calculating transport properties.
Analysis of the Composition of Deinagkistrodon acutus Snake Venom Based on Proteomics, and Its Antithrombotic Activity and Toxicity Studies
Authors: Huang Jin , Zhao Minrui , Xue Chu , Liang Jiqiang , Huang Fang
Published: March 2022

There is a strong correlation between the composition of Deinagkistrodon acutus venom proteins and their potential pharmacological effects. The proteomic analysis revealed 103 proteins identified through label-free proteomics from 30 different snake venom families. Phospholipase A2 (30.0%), snaclec (21.0%), antithrombin (17.8%), thrombin (8.1%) and metalloproteinases (4.2%) were the most abundant proteins. The main toxicity of Deinagkistrodon acutus venom is hematotoxicity and neurotoxicity, and it acts on the lung. Deinagkistrodon acutus venom may have anticoagulant and antithrombotic effects. In summary, the protein profile and related toxicity and pharmacological activity of Deinagkistrodon acutus venom from southwest China were put forward for the first time. In addition, we revealed the relationship between the main toxicity, pharmacological effects, and the protein components of snake venom.
Low-Threshold Optical Bistability in the Graphene-Oxide Integrated Asymmetric Nanocavity at Visible Light Frequencies
Authors: Wang Zeqiang , Cai Boyuan , Wan Zhengfen , Zhang Yunyue , Ma Xiaoguang , Gu Min , Zhang Qiming
Published: March 2022

Here, we propose an optical bistable device structure with a few layers of graphene oxide integrated in the metal-dielectric-metal based asymmetric nanocavity. Through the light confinement in the nanocavity, the third order nonlinear absorption of graphene oxide can be significantly enhanced, which experimentally delivers low-threshold optical bistability at the visible wavelength of 532 nm with only 267 KW/cm2 intensity. In addition, the switching threshold can be further reduced via increasing the graphene oxide thickness, hence paving a new way for achieving tunable optical bistable devices at visible light frequencies.
Water-Processed Ultrathin Crystalline Indium–Boron–Oxide Channel for High-Performance Thin-Film Transistor Applications
Authors: Xu Wangying , Peng Tao , Li Yujia , Xu Fang , Zhang Yu , Zhao Chun , Fang Ming , Han Shun , Zhu Deliang , Cao Peijiang , Liu Wenjun , Lu Youming
Published: March 2022

Thin-film transistors (TFTs) made of solution-processable transparent metal oxide semiconductors show great potential for use in emerging large-scale optoelectronics. However, current solution-processed metal oxide TFTs still suffer from relatively poor device performance, hindering their further advancement. In this work, we create a novel ultrathin crystalline indium–boron–oxide (In-B-O) channel layer for high-performance TFTs. We show that high-quality ultrathin (~10 nm) crystalline In-B-O with an atomically smooth nature (RMS: ~0.15 nm) could be grown from an aqueous solution via facile one-step spin-coating. The impacts of B doping on the physical, chemical and electrical properties of the In2O3 film are systematically investigated. The results show that B has large metal–oxide bond dissociation energy and high Lewis acid strength, which can suppress oxygen vacancy-/hydroxyl-related defects and alleviate dopant-induced carrier scattering, resulting in electrical performance improvement. The optimized In-B-O (10% B) TFTs based on SiO2/Si substrate demonstrate a mobility of ~8 cm2/(V s), an on/off current ratio of ~106 and a subthreshold swing of 0.86 V/dec. Furthermore, by introducing the water-processed high-K ZrO2 dielectric, the fully aqueous solution-grown In-B-O/ZrO2 TFTs exhibit excellent device performance, with a mobility of ~11 cm2/(V s), an on/off current of ~105, a subthreshold swing of 0.19 V/dec, a low operating voltage of 5 V and superior bias stress stability. Our research opens up new avenues for low-cost, large-area green oxide electronic devices with superior performance.
A Comparison of the Genotoxic Effects of Gold Nanoparticles Functionalized with Seven Different Ligands in Cultured Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Mulder Danielle , Taute Cornelius Johannes Francois , van Wyk Mari , Pretorius Pieter J.
Published: March 2022

Gold nanoparticles (GNPs) have shown great potential in diagnostic and therapeutic applications in diseases, such as cancer. Despite GNP versatility, there is conflicting data regarding the toxicity of their overall functionalization chemistry for improved biocompatibility. This study aimed to determine the possible genotoxic effects of functionalized GNPs in Human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cells. GNPs were synthesized and biofunctionalized with seven common molecules used for biomedical applications. These ligands were bovine serum albumin (BSA), poly(sodium 4-styrene sulfonate) (PSSNA), trisodium citrate (citrate), mercaptoundecanoic acid (MUA), glutathione (GSH), polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), and polyethylene glycol (PEG). Before in vitro genotoxicity assessment, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry was used to determine GNP cellular internalization quantitatively, followed by cell-based assays; WST-1 to find IC 30 and ApoPercentage for apoptotic induction time-points. The effect of the GNPs on cell growth in real-time was determined by using xCELLigence, followed by a comet assay for genotoxicity determination. The HepG2 cells experienced genotoxicity for all GNP ligands; however, they were able to initiate repair mechanisms and recover DNA damage, except for two functionalization chemistries.
Multiscale Mechanical Performance of Wood: From Nano- to Macro-Scale across Structure Hierarchy and Size Effects
Authors: Golovin Yuri I. , Gusev Alexander A. , Golovin Dmitry Yu. , Matveev Sergey M. , Vasyukova Inna A.
Published: March 2022

This review describes methods and results of studying the mechanical properties of wood at all scales: from nano- to macro-scale. The connection between the mechanical properties of material and its structure at all these levels is explored. It is shown that the existing size effects in the mechanical properties of wood, in a range of the characteristic sizes of the structure of about six orders of magnitude, correspond to the empirical Hall-Petch relation. This “law” was revealed more than 60 years ago in metals and alloys and later in other materials. The nature, as well as the particular type of the size dependences in different classes of materials can vary, but the general trend, “the smaller the stronger”, remains true both for wood and for other cellulose-containing materials. The possible mechanisms of the size effects in wood are being discussed. The correlations between the mechanical and thermophysical properties of wood are described. Several examples are used to demonstrate the possibility to forecast the macromechanical properties of wood by means of contactless thermographic express methods based on measuring temperature diffusivity. The research technique for dendrochronological and dendroclimatological studies by means of the analysis of microhardness and Young’s modulus radial dependences in annual growth rings is described.
Diet, Oxidative Stress, and Blood Serum Nutrients in Various Types of Glaucoma: A Systematic Review
Authors: Młynarczyk Maryla , Falkowska Martyna , Micun Zuzanna , Obuchowska Iwona , Kochanowicz Jan , Socha Katarzyna , Konopińska Joanna
Published: March 2022

Glaucoma is one of the most common causes of irreversible vision loss worldwide. It is an insidious disease with a multifactorial pathogenesis. Despite progress in treatment methods, prevention and lifestyle modifications may be useful in slowing the progression of this disease. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the influence of diet, oxidative stress, and disturbances in blood serum levels of nutrients on the incidence and severity of glaucoma based on scientific reports on the role of nutrition in the pathogenesis and course of glaucoma. This paper presents an analysis of the above issues; however, further research is required to develop this topic. Future clinical trials are needed to assess the influence of nutrition and to develop nutritional management strategies for patients with glaucoma.
Current Perspectives on Rotator Cuff Disease
Authors: Mera Barbara Juliette
Published: March 2022

Rotator cuff (RC) disease, defined as any pathological state of the rotator cuff, is one of the most common shoulder conditions worldwide. It accounts for 70% of shoulder pain and dysfunction in adults and is the third most prevalent musculoskeletal disorder. Currently, the main issue with rotator cuff disease is that surgery represents the most common treatment performed. However, rotator cuff surgeries have a high failure rate positively correlated with the severity of the tear, and a high re-tear rate. This review will focus on the current research perspectives of rotator cuff repairs as well as new advances in the field. Current research is shifting its focus to target the healing and tendon repair process in an aim to decrease the failure rates. The bulk of research right now is within biologic methods based on growth factors, repair scaffolds, and stem cells that promote healing. Among this, researchers are continuously trying to improve surgical techniques. The complement of both methods should pave the way for much more effective, longer-lasting rotator cuff repairs.
Comprehensive Review of Fungi on Coffee
Authors: Lu Li , Tibpromma Saowaluck , Karunarathna Samantha C. , Jayawardena Ruvishika S. , Lumyong Saisamorn , Xu Jianchu , Hyde Kevin D.
Published: March 2022

Coffee is grown in more than 80 countries as a cash crop and consumed worldwide as a beverage and food additive. It is susceptible to fungal infection during growth, processing and storage. Fungal infections, in particular, can seriously affect the quality of coffee and threaten human health. The data for this comprehensive review were collected from the United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service (USDA ARS) website and published papers. This review lists the fungal species reported on coffee based on taxonomy, life mode, host, affected plant part and region. Five major fungal diseases and mycotoxin-producing species (post-harvest diseases of coffee) are also discussed. Furthermore, we address why coffee yield and quality are affected by fungi and propose methods to control fungal infections to increase coffee yield and improve quality. Endophytic fungi and their potential as biological control agents of coffee disease are also discussed.
Cytotoxicity of Thioalkaloid-Enriched Nuphar lutea Extract and Purified 6,6′-Dihydroxythiobinupharidine in Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cells: The Role of Oxidative Stress and Intracellular Calcium
Authors: Muduli Suchismita , Golan-Goldhirsh Avi , Gopas Jacob , Danilenko Michael
Published: March 2022

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is an aggressive hematological malignancy characterized by uncontrolled proliferation of immature myeloid progenitors. Here, we report the in vitro antileukemic effects of the sesquiterpene thioalkaloid-enriched fraction of the Nuphar lutea leaf extract (NUP) and a purified thioalkaloid 6,6′-dihydroxythiobinupharidine (DTBN). Treatment with 0.3–10 µg/mL NUP caused a dose- and time-dependent reduction in proliferation and viability of human AML cells (KG-1a, HL60 and U937). This was associated with apoptosis induction manifested by annexin-V/propidium iodide binding as well as cleavage of caspases 8, 9, and 3 as well as poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase. Caspase-dependence of the apoptotic effect was confirmed using the pan-caspase inhibitor Q-VD-OPH. NUP induced significant biphasic changes in the cytosolic levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) compared to untreated cells—a decrease at early time points (2–4 h) and an increase after a longer incubation (24 h). ROS accumulation was accompanied by lowering the cellular glutathione (GSH) levels. In addition, NUP treatment resulted in elevation of the cytosolic Ca2+ (Ca2+cyt) levels. The thiol antioxidant and glutathione precursor N-acetyl cysteine prevented NUP-induced ROS accumulation and markedly inhibited apoptosis. A similar antiapoptotic effect was obtained by Ca2+cyt chelating using BAPTA. These data indicate that NUP-induced cell death is mediated, at least in part, by the induction of oxidative stress and Ca2+cyt accumulation. However, a substantial apoptotic activity of pure DTBN (0.05–0.25 µg/mL), was found to be independent of cytosolic ROS or Ca2+, suggesting that alternative mechanisms are involved in DTBN-induced cytotoxicity. Notably, neither NUP nor DTBN treatment significantly induced cell death of normal human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Our results provide the basis for further investigation of the antileukemic potential of NUP and its active constituents.