bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Fine Needle Aspiration (EUS-FNA) in the Diagnosis of Suspicious Malignant Esophageal Strictures
Authors: Min Liang , Qing Yumin , Chu Yi , Liang Chengbai , Lv Liang , Liu Deliang , Tan Yuyong , Zhou Yuqian
Published: March 2023

(1) Background: The accurate diagnosis of esophageal strictures is quite critical for optimizing medical intervention. However, the diagnosis of suspicious malignant esophageal strictures with intact mucosa appearance and negative biopsy results is challenging. This study aimed to evaluate the role of endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) in the diagnosis of suspicious esophageal strictures. (2) Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the cases with suspicious malignant esophageal strictures that underwent EUS-FNA, with or without rapid on-site evaluation (ROSE), in our hospital from April 2017 to September 2022. Their clinical manifestations, imaging examinations, gastroscopic examinations, EUS-FNA results, and therapeutic strategies were retrospectively recorded and analyzed. (3) Results: A total of 23 patients (15 male and 8 female) were enrolled in this study. Based on EUS-FNA results, 18 patients were diagnosed with malignancies, including 16 cases of primary esophageal cancer (13 squamous carcinomas and 3 adenocarcinomas), 1 case of mediastinal cancer, and 1 case of metastatic esophageal cancer; 1 case of tuberculosis was also confirmed by EUS-FNA. Among 4 cases of ambiguous diagnosis with EUS-FNA, 1 was diagnosed with an esophageal glomus tumor after surgical removal, and 2 patients survived for several years without medical intervention, which hinted at the possibility of benign esophageal strictures. No major complications, including bleeding or perforation, were observed. (4) Conclusions: EUS-FNA may serve as a safe and effective diagnostic tool in suspicious malignant esophageal strictures with accurate specimen acquisition, especially for biopsy-negative cases.
Secondary Cardiovascular Prevention after Acute Coronary Syndrome: Emerging Risk Factors and Novel Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Silverio Angelo , Cancro Francesco Paolo , Esposito Luca , Bellino Michele , D’Elia Debora , Verdoia Monica , Vassallo Maria Giovanna , Ciccarelli Michele , Vecchione Carmine , Galasso Gennaro , De Luca Giuseppe
Published: March 2023

The control of cardiovascular risk factors, the promotion of a healthy lifestyle, and antithrombotic therapy are the cornerstones of secondary prevention after acute coronary syndrome (ACS). However, many patients have recurrent ischemic events despite the optimal control of traditional modifiable risk factors and the use of tailored pharmacological therapy, including new-generation antiplatelet and lipid-lowering agents. This evidence emphasizes the importance of identifying novel risk factors and targets to optimize secondary preventive strategies. Lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) has emerged as an independent predictor of adverse events after ACS. New molecules such as anti-PCSK9 monoclonal antibodies, small interfering RNAs, and antisense oligonucleotides can reduce plasma Lp(a) levels and are associated with a long-term outcome benefit after the index event. The inflammatory stimulus and the inflammasome, pivotal elements in the development and progression of atherosclerosis, have been widely investigated in patients with coronary artery disease. More recently, randomized clinical trials including post-ACS patients treated with colchicine and monoclonal antibodies targeting cytokines yielded promising results in the reduction in major cardiovascular events after an ACS. Gut dysbiosis has also raised great interest for its potential pathophysiological role in cardiovascular disease. This evidence, albeit preliminary and needing confirmation by larger population-based studies, suggests the possibility of targeting the gut microbiome in particularly high-risk populations. The risk of recurrent ischemic events after ACS is related to the complex interaction between intrinsic predisposing factors and environmental triggers. The identification of novel risk factors and targets is fundamental to customizing patient clinical management with a precision medicine perspective.
A Systematic Approach to Determine the Cutting Parameters of AM Green Zirconia in Finish Milling
Authors: Spitaels Laurent , Dantinne Hugo , Bossu Julien , Rivière-Lorphèvre Edouard , Ducobu François
Published: March 2023

Additive manufacturing (AM) opens new possibilities of obtaining ceramic green parts with a tailored complex design at low cost. Meeting the requirements of highly demanding industries (aeronautical and biomedical, for example) is still challenging, even for machining. Hybrid machines can solve this problem by combining the advantages of both additive and subtractive processes. However, little information is currently available to determine the milling parameters of additively fabricated ceramic green parts. This article proposes a systematic approach to experimentally determine the cutting parameters of green AM zirconia parts. Three tools, one dedicated to thermoplastics, one to composites, and a universal tool, were tested. The tool–material couple standard (NF E 66-520-5) was followed. The lower cost and repeatable generation of smooth surfaces (Ra < 1.6 µm) without material pull-out were the main goals of the study. The universal tool showed few repeatable working points without material pull-out, while the two other tools gave satisfying results. The thermoplastic tool ensured repeatable results of Ra < 0.8 µm at a four times lower cost than the composite tool. Moreover, it exhibited a larger chip thickness range (from 0.003 mm to 0.036 mm). Nevertheless, it generated an uncut zone that must be considered when planning the milling operations.
In Vitro Comparison of Sex-Specific Splicing Efficiencies of fem Pre-mRNA under Monoallelic and Heteroallelic Conditions of csd, a Master Sex-Determining Gene in the Honeybee
Authors: Suzuki Yukihiro , Yamada Takafumi , Suzuki Masataka G.
Published: March 2023

The sexual fate of honeybees is determined by the complementary sex determination (CSD) model: heterozygosity at a single locus (the CSD locus) determines femaleness, while hemizygosity or homozygosity at the CSD locus determines maleness. The csd gene encodes a splicing factor that regulates sex-specific splicing of the downstream target gene feminizer (fem), which is required for femaleness. The female mode of fem splicing occurs only when csd is present in the heteroallelic condition. To gain insights into how Csd proteins are only activated under the heterozygous allelic composition, we developed an in vitro assay system to evaluate the activity of Csd proteins. Consistent with the CSD model, the co-expression of two csd alleles, both of which lack splicing activity under the single-allele condition, restored the splicing activity that governs the female mode of fem splicing. RNA immunoprecipitation quantitative PCR analyses demonstrated that the CSD protein was specifically enriched in several exonic regions in the fem pre-mRNA, and enrichment in exons 3a and 5 was significantly greater under the heterozygous allelic composition than the single-allelic condition. However, in most cases csd expression under the monoallelic condition was capable of inducing the female mode of fem splicing contrary to the conventional CSD model. In contrast, repression of the male mode of fem splicing was predominant under heteroallelic conditions. These results were reproduced by real-time PCR of endogenous fem expression in female and male pupae. These findings strongly suggest that the heteroallelic composition of csd may be more important for the repression of the male splicing mode than for the induction of the female splicing mode of the fem gene.
Scientific Papers by Developmental Biologists in Japan
Authors: Ohuchi Hideyo , Nohno Tsutomu
Published: March 2023

We have assembled ten interesting manuscripts submitted by developmental biologists in Japan [...]
AFM Analysis of a Three-Point Flexure Tested, 3D Printing Definitive Restoration Material for Dentistry
Authors: Sandmair Maximilian N. , Kleber Christoph , Ströbele Dragan A. , von See Constantin
Published: March 2023

Background: Three-dimensional printing is a rapidly developing technology across all industries. In medicine recent developments include 3D bioprinting, personalized medication and custom prosthetics and implants. To ensure safety and long-term usability in a clinical setting, it is essential to understand material specific properties. This study aims to analyze possible surface changes of a commercially available and approved DLP 3D printed definitive restoration material for dentistry after three-point flexure testing. Furthermore, this study explores whether Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) is a feasible method for examination of 3D printed dental materials in general. This is a pilot study, as there are currently no studies that analyze 3D printed dental materials using an AFM. Methods: The present study consisted of a pretest followed by the main test. The resulting break force of the preliminary test was used to determine the force used in the main test. The main test consisted of atomic force microscopy (AFM) surface analysis of the test specimen followed by a three-point flexure procedure. After bending, the same specimen was analyzed with the AFM again, to observe possible surface changes. Results: The mean root mean square (RMS) roughness of the segments with the most stress was 20.27 nm (±5.16) before bending, while it was 26.48 nm (±6.67) afterward. The corresponding mean roughness (Ra) values were 16.05 nm (±4.25) and 21.19 nm (±5.71) Conclusions: Under three-point flexure testing, the surface roughness increased significantly. The p-value for RMS roughness was p = 0.003, while it was p = 0.006 for Ra. Furthermore, this study showed that AFM surface analysis is a suitable procedure to investigate surface changes in 3D printed dental materials.
Heat Pipe-Based DEMO Divertor Target Concept: High Heat Flux Performance Evaluation
Authors: Wen Wen , Ghidersa Bradut-Eugen , Hering Wolfgang , Starflinger Jörg , Stieglitz Robert
Published: March 2023

The use of heat pipes (HP) for the DEMO in-vessel plasma-facing components (PFCs) has been considered because of their high capacity to transport the heat from a heat source to a heat sink by means of the vaporization and condensation of the working fluid inside and their ability to enlarge the heat transfer area of the cooling circuit substantially. Recent engineering studies conducted in the framework of the EUROfusion work package Divertor (Wen et al, 2021) indicate that it is possible to design a heat pipe with a capillary limit above 6 kW using a composite capillary structure (wherein axial grooves cover the adiabatic zone and the condenser, and sintered porous material covers the evaporator). This power level would correspond to an applied heat flux of 20 MW/m2, rendering such a design interesting with respect to a divertor target concept. To validate the results of the initial engineering analysis, several experiments have been conducted to evaluate the actual performance of the proposed heat pipe concept. The present contribution presents the experiment’s results regarding the examination of the operating limits of two different designs for an evaporator: one featuring a plain porous structure, and one featuring ribs and channels.
Calcium Enrichment in Edible Mushrooms: A Review
Authors: Tang Zhen-Xing , Shi Lu-E. , Jiang Zhong-Bao , Bai Xue-Lian , Ying Rui-Feng
Published: March 2023

Calcium is one of the essential minerals that enhances various biological activities, including the regulation of blood pressure, the prevention of osteoporosis and colorectal adenomas. Calcium-enriched edible mushrooms can be considered as one of the important daily sources of calcium in foods. Calcium accumulation in edible mushrooms is an effective way to enhance its activities because the organic state of calcium metabolites in edible mushrooms can be formed from the original inorganic calcium. The main calcium sources for calcium-enriched edible mushrooms’ cultivation are CaCO3, CaCl2 or Ca(NO3)2. The growth and metabolic process of edible mushrooms are significantly influenced by calcium enrichment. Generally, Ca at low levels is good for the production of edible mushrooms, whereas the reverse phenomenon for the growth of edible mushrooms at high Ca contents is observed. In addition, metabolites, for example, phenolics, flavonoids, polysaccharides, enzymes, minerals, etc., are improved when edible mushrooms are enriched at a moderate level of calcium. This review summarized the literature regarding the influence of calcium enrichment on edible mushrooms’ growth and major metabolites. Furthermore, the mechanisms of calcium enrichment in edible mushrooms were highlighted. Understanding calcium-enriched mechanisms in edible mushrooms would not only be beneficial to manipulate the cultivation of edible mushrooms having excellent biological activities and high levels of active Ca, but it would also contribute to the applications of calcium enrichment products in food industries.
Phenylalanine Ammonia-Lyase: A Key Gene for Color Discrimination of Edible Mushroom Flammulina velutipes
Authors: Im Ji-Hoon , Yu Hye-Won , Park Che-Hwon , Kim Jin-Woo , Shin Ju-Hyeon , Jang Kab-Yeul , Park Young-Jin
Published: March 2023

In nature; Flammulina velutipes, also known as winter mushrooms, vary in the color of their fruiting bodies, from black, yellow, pale yellow, or beige to white. The purpose of this study was to compare the genome sequences of different colored strains of F. velutipes and to identify variations in the genes associated with fruiting body color. Comparative genomics of six F. velutipes strains revealed 70 white-strain-specific variations, including single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and insertions/deletions (indels), in the genome sequences. Among them, 36 variations were located in the open reading frames, and only one variation was identified as a mutation with a disruptive in-frame deletion (ΔGCGCAC) within the annotated gene phenylalanine ammonia-lyase 1 (Fvpal1). This mutation was found to cause a deletion, without a frameshift, of two amino acids at positions 112 and 113 (arginine and threonine, respectively) in the Fvpal1 gene of the white strain. Specific primers to detect this mutation were designed, and amplification refractory mutation system (ARMS) polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed to evaluate whether the mutation is color specific for the F. velutipes fruiting body. PCR analysis of a total of 95 F. velutipes strains revealed that this mutation was present only in white strains. In addition, monospores of the heterozygous mutant were isolated, and whether this mutation was related to the color of the fruiting body was evaluated by a mating assay. In the mating analysis of monospores with mutations in Fvpal1, it was found that this mutation plays an important role in determining the color of the fruiting body. Furthermore, the deletion (Δ112RT113) in Fvpal1 is located between motifs that play a key role in the catalytic function of FvPAL1. These results suggest that this mutation can be used as an effective marker for the color-specific breeding of F. velutipes, a representative edible mushroom.
The U-Shape Relationship between Triglyceride-Glucose Index and the Risk of Diabetic Retinopathy among the US Population
Authors: Zhou Yu , Lu Qiong , Zhang Min , Yang Ling , Shen Xi
Published: March 2023

Objective: To explore the association of diabetic retinopathy (DR) with TyG index and TyG-related parameters among the United States population. Methods: This cross-sectional study is conducted in adults with diabetes mellitus based on the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2005 to 2018. Multivariate logistic regression, restricted cubic spline, trend test, receiver operating characteristic curve and subgroup analysis are adopted to uncover the association of DR with TyG index and TyG-related parameter levels in diabetics. Results: An aggregate of 888 eligible participants with diabetes is included, involving 263 (29.6%) patients with DR. The participants are stratified according to the quartile of TyG index and TyG-related parameters (Q1–Q4). Following the adjustments of the confounding factors, a multivariate logistic regression analysis finds that TyG-BMI, TyG index and Q4-TyG index are significant risk factors for DR. The restricted cubic spline shows that TyG index and the DR risk of diabetes patients are proved to be U-shaped related (p for nonlinearity = 0.001). Conclusions: The triglyceride-glucose index has a U-shaped correlation with the risk of diabetic retinopathy, which has potential predictive value.
IDO1/COX2 Expression Is Associated with Poor Prognosis in Colorectal Cancer Liver Oligometastases
Authors: Wu Miaoqing , Wu Xiaoliang , Wang Xing , Hong Xiangchan , Liu Yifan , Lv Guangzhao , Li Cong , Pan Zhizhong , Zhang Rongxin , Chen Gong
Published: March 2023

Background: IDO1 and COX2 have emerged as promising immunotherapy targets. It is unclear whether IDO1 and COX2 expression levels in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients with liver oligometastases could be independent predictors of overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). The purpose of this study was to investigate the correlation of IDO1 and COX2 expression levels with OS and PFS in CRC patients with liver oligometastases. Methods: The expression levels of IDO1 and COX2 were assessed by immunohistochemistry in 107 specimens from patients with liver oligometastases. The correlation between the expression of IDO1 and COX2 and the clinicopathological parameters and OS/PFS in patients was examined. Results: The expression level of IDO1/COX2 was significantly correlated with age and was not associated with gender, BMI, T stage, N stage, primary tumor size, liver metastasis size, CEA, CA19-9, CD3 TILs or CD8 TILs. In univariate analysis, we found that IDO1/COX2 expression, CEA and N stage all yielded significantly poor OS and PFS outcomes. In our multivariate Cox model, IDO1/COX2 coexpression, CEA and N stage were found to be significantly correlated with OS; IDO1/COX2 coexpression and CEA were significantly correlated with PFS. Conclusions: IDO1/COX2 coexpression plays a pivotal role and may act as a potential prognostic biomarker for survival in CRC patients with liver oligometastases.
Diastole/Body Mass Index Ratio Can Predict Post-Thoracoscopic Surgery Metastasis in Stage I Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Chiang Hung-Hsing , Chang Po-Chih , Chang Ting-Wei , Chen Kai-Hua , Liu Yu-Wei , Li Hsien-Pin , Chou Shah-Hwa , Chang Yu-Tang
Published: March 2023

Background: According to recent animal models for lung adenocarcinoma metastasis, cardiac function may be related to the clinical outcome. The aim of this study is to identify a predictable index for postoperative metastasis (POM) that is associated with cardiac function. Methods. Two hundred and seven consecutive patients who underwent thoracoscopic resection for stage I lung adenocarcinoma were included. Disease-free survival (DFS), overall survival (OS), and patients’ clinical and pathological characteristics were analyzed. Results. Among the 207 patients, 17 cases demonstrated metastasis, 110 cases received a preoperative echocardiogram, and six cases had POM. Mitral valve peak A velocity, which is one of the left ventricular diastolic function parameters affected by BMI (MVPABMI), was associated with a negative factor for POM (hazard ratio (HR): 2.139, p = 0.019) and a poor 5-year DFS in the above median (100% vs. 87%, p = 0.014). The predictable rate increased from 30.7% to 75% when the MVPABMI was above the median = 3.15 in the solid subtype). Conclusions. MVPABMI is a novel index for POM prediction in early-stage lung adenocarcinoma. This is a pilot study and the first attempt at research to verify that the diastole and the BMI may be associated with POM in early-stage lung adenocarcinoma.
Can Opioid-Free Anaesthesia Be Personalised? A Narrative Review
Authors: Goff Jenna , Hina Morgan , Malik Nayaab , McLardy Hannah , Reilly Finley , Robertson Matthew , Ruddy Louis , Willox Faith , Forget Patrice
Published: March 2023

Background: A significant amount of evidence suggests that Opioid-Free Anaesthesia (OFA) may provide better outcomes for patients undergoing surgery, sparing patients who are particularly vulnerable to adverse side effects of opioids. However, to what extent personalizing OFA is feasible and beneficial has not been adequately described. Methods: We conducted a narrative literature review aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of nociception and pain and its context within the field of OFA. Physiological (including monitoring), pharmacological, procedural (type of surgery), genetical and phenotypical (including patients’ conditions) were considered. Results: We did not find any monitoring robustly associated with improved outcomes. However, we found evidence supporting particular OFA indications, such as bariatric and cancer surgery. We found that vulnerable patients may benefit more from OFA, with an interesting field of research in patients suffering from vascular disease. We found a variety of techniques and medications making it impossible to consider OFA as a single technique. Our findings suggest that a vast field of research remains unexplored. In particular, a deeper understanding of nociception with an interest in its genetic and acquired contributors would be an excellent starting point paving the way for personalised OFA. Conclusion: Recent developments in OFA may present a more holistic approach, challenging the use of opioids. Understanding better nociception, given the variety of OFA techniques, may help to maximize their potential in different contexts and potential indications.
Determining Commercial Parking Vacancies Employing Multiple WiFiRSSI Fingerprinting Method
Authors: Magsino Elmer , Barrameda Juan Miguel Carlo , Puno Andrei , Ong Spencer , Siapco Cyrill , Vibal Jolo
Published: March 2023

In this study, we implemented a parking occupancy/vacancy detection system (POVD) in a scaled-down model of a parking system for commercial centers by employing multiple WiFi access points. By exploiting the presence of WiFi routers installed in a commercial establishment, the WiFi’s received signal strength indicator (RSSI) signals were collected to establish the parking fingerprints and then later used to predict the number of occupied/vacant slots. Our extensive experiments were divided into two phases, namely: offline training and online matching phases. During the offline stage, the POVD collects available WiFi RSSI readings to determine the parking lot’s fingerprint based on a given scenario and stores them in a fingerprint database that can be updated periodically. On the other hand, the online stage predicts the number of available parking slots based on the actual scenario compared to the stored database. We utilized multiple router setups in generating WiFi signals and exhaustively considered all possible parking scenarios given the combination of 10 maximum access points and 10 cars. From two testing locations, our results showed that, given a parking area dimension of 13.40 m2 and 6.30 m2 and with the deployment of 4 and 10 routers, our system acquired the best accuracy of 88.18% and 100%, respectively. Moreover, the developed system serves as experiential evidence on how to exploit the available WiFi RSSI readings towards the realization of a smart parking system.
‘Stimuli Are All Around’—The Influence of Offline and Online Servicescapes in Customer Satisfaction and Repurchase Intention
Authors: Ananda Artha Sejati , Hanny Hanny , Hernández-García Ángel , Prasetya Prita
Published: March 2023

In the last decade, multichannel retailing has grown at a significant rate, especially in emerging markets such as Indonesia, where retailers have embraced multichannel marketing to heighten the customer shopping experience. Improved servicescape—the environment where services are provided and where interaction with customers occurs—may help enhance the customer experience. While the role of servicescapes has been analyzed in online or offline contexts previously, this research adopts a multichannel view and pioneers the investigation of the interplay of offline and online (mobile app) servicescapes and their effect on customer satisfaction, as antecedents of repurchase intention, among three types of Indonesian retailers. The study analyzes data from N = 171 Indonesian multichannel customers who have shopped in physical stores and via the store’s mobile app. The results show that ambient conditions are the strongest predictor of perceived quality of offline servicescape, whereas store layout and functionality are the strongest predictor of perceived quality of online servicescape. Both online and physical perceived quality of servicescapes predict customer satisfaction, with the latter having a stronger effect on satisfaction. The study offers practical recommendations for retailers seeking to improve loyalty and customer retention.
The Resource Potential and Optimization of Rural Housing Land under Utility Structure Evaluation in Metropolitan Suburbs Villages of China
Authors: Zhao Qinglei , Jiang Guanghui , Ma Wenqiu , Yang Yuting , Zhou Tao
Published: March 2023

Reasonable resource potential calculation is the basic premise for the country to formulate planning and carry out rural housing land consolidation, which can deepen the research on the economical and intensive use of rural construction land. This paper evaluates farmers’ area demands of rural housing land by using the consumption utility function, analyzes the spatial pattern characteristics of demand and potential, and puts forward suggestions for the resource optimization of rural housing land based on the survey data of 613 farmers and land use data in the Pinggu District of Beijing in 2005 and 2018. Research shows that the utilities of life, production, and the ecological are carried and measured by the corresponding internal land-use structure of rural housing land. The proportion of life land area was the largest, and the life and production land area decreased from plain to mountain, from 119.76 m2 to 89.07 m2 and from 44.87 m2 to 32.85 m2, respectively. The average area potential is 395.64 m2 and the change range is −30.35–1413.75 m2, which is basically in accordance with the normal distribution. The area potential can be divided into five grades, which are expressed by I, II, III, IV, and V in order of potential from small to large by using the natural fracture method. The utility needed should be enhanced and expanded, and the redundant utility should be removed and socialized in the village. The resource optimization and allocation of rural housing land should be promoted according to the idea of regionalization and classification. It provides scientific support for the reform of rural housing land.
Zonation of a Viticultural Territorial Context in Piemonte (NW Italy) to Support Terroir Identification: The Role of Pedological, Topographical and Climatic Factors
Authors: Ghilardi Federica , Virano Andrea , Prandi Marco , Borgogno-Mondino Enrico
Published: March 2023

Grapevine production and quality greatly depend on site-specific features such as topography, soil, and climate. The possibility of recognizing and mapping local specificities of a wine-production area is highly desirable, as environmental conditions are the main drivers of wine production in terms of both quality and quantity. Areas showing similar features able to determine specific traits in vine and wine production are referred to as terroirs. It is commonly considered that soil and climate represent the main elements for a functional and balanced viticultural ecosystem; if they change, grapevine quality and yield change too, and this occurs in spite of any agronomic practice. Terroir mapping based on traditional methodology requires a considerable investment of time and money by producers and wine consortia; moreover, it preserves an important subjective component. In this work, the authors propose an approach to map territorial differences, possibly conditioning the definition of terroir, of an important wine-production area located in Piemonte (NW Italy) based on free and open data and free GIS. The resulting zones were related to the main local vine varieties looking for possible relationships. The results proved that, with reference to the pedological, topographical, and climatic factors, six zones were recognized as significantly different in the study area. These were compared against the six main vine varieties in the area (i.e., Barbera, Brachetto, Chardonnay, Dolcetto, Moscato Bianco, and Nebbiolo), finding that: (i) Nebbiolo is highly specialized, covering almost a single zone; (ii) Moscato, Dolcetto, and Chardonnay showed no significant preference for any zone, being almost equally distributed over all of them; and (iii) Barbera and Brachetto are averagely specialized, being distributed mainly over two clusters (out of six) different from the one where Nebbiolo appears to be majorly present.
Historical Evolution and Multidimensional Characterisation of the Butia Palm Landscape: A Comprehensive Conservation Approach
Authors: Rivas Mercedes , Dabezies Juan Martín , del Puerto Laura
Published: March 2023

The Butia odorata palm grove in southeast Uruguay forms a particular landscape of the Pampa biome, which has been inhabited and transformed since the early Holocene. The forms and meanings of this contemporary landscape are the result of the historical interaction between culture and nature. The conservation of its natural and cultural heritage has been compromised by anthropic activities, leading to conservation proposals from different disciplinary perspectives that are partial and do not consider the landscape’s integrity. In this article, we propose a comprehensive approach, integrating the ecological, cultural and socioeconomic aspects through a historical look at the domestication process of this landscape. This approach is based on a transdisciplinary narrative aimed at generating a multidimensional and diachronic characterisation of the palm grove landscape on which to base a participatory definition of the most appropriate instrument for conservation through sustainable use.
Effects of Soil pH on the Growth and Cadmium Accumulation in Polygonum hydropiper (L.) in Low and Moderately Cadmium-Contaminated Paddy Soil
Authors: Zhang Ze , Chen Xinsheng , Qin Xianyan , Xu Chao , Yan Xingfu
Published: March 2023

Wetland macrophytes have advantages when used in the remediation of cadmium (Cd)-contaminated paddy fields because they can adapt to overly wet soil environments; however, only a few studies have tested the efficiency of macrophytes in Cd phytoremediation. In this study, we investigated the effect of soil pH (pHs of 5, 6, and 7) on the accumulation and translocation of Cd by Polygonum hydropiper (L.) in low and moderately Cd-contaminated paddy soil (0.56 and 0.92 mg/kg, respectively). Our results indicated that Cd accumulation in stems and roots, as well as subcellular distribution in P. hydropiper, was affected by soil pH, with significant interactions between the soil pH and Cd level. At low soil Cd levels, stem and root Cd contents were higher at a soil pH value of 6. In addition, with higher soil pH values, the proportion of Cd distributed in the cell wall increased, whereas that distributed in the organelles decreased. The Cd content in the roots and stems of P. hydropiper significantly decreased with the increase in soil pH in the moderate Cd-contaminated soil. In addition, with higher soil pH values, the proportion of Cd distributed in the cell wall decreased, whereas that distributed in the organelles increased. The translocation factor (TF) of P. hydropiper was higher than one in all treatments, indicating that it can effectively transport root-absorbed Cd to the aboveground shoots. Based on the relatively high bioconcentration factor and TF, P. hydropiper has the potential to remediate Cd-polluted paddy soil. Furthermore, the remediation efficiency of P. hydropiper can be enhanced by adjusting the pH as per the soil-Cd pollution.
More Than a Diamine Oxidase Inhibitor: L-Aminoguanidine Modulates Polyamine-Related Abiotic Stress Responses of Plants
Authors: Köhler Zoltán Márton , Szepesi Ágnes
Published: March 2023

L-aminoguanidine (AG) is an inhibitor frequently used for investigating plant abiotic stress responses; however, its exact mode of action is not well understood. Many studies used this compound as a specific diamine oxidase inhibitor, whereas other studies used it for reducing nitric oxide (NO) production. Recent studies suggest its antiglycation effect; however, this remains elusive in plants. This review summarises our current knowledge about different targets of AG in plants. Our recommendation is to use AG as a modulator of polyamine-related mechanisms rather than a specific inhibitor. In the future overall investigation is needed to decipher the exact mechanisms of AG. More careful application of AG could give more insight into plant abiotic stress responses.
Dietary Supplementation with Boswellia serrata, Verbascum thapsus, and Curcuma longa in Show Jumping Horses: Effects on Serum Proteome, Antioxidant Status, and Anti-Inflammatory Gene Expression
Authors: Beghelli Daniela , Zallocco Lorenzo , Angeloni Cristina , Bistoni Onelia , Ronci Maurizio , Cavallucci Clarita , Mazzoni Maria Rosa , Nuccitelli Anna , Catalano Chiara , Hrelia Silvana , Lucacchini Antonio , Giusti Laura
Published: March 2023

Intense exercise can cause inflammation and oxidative stress due to the production of reactive oxygen species. These pathophysiological processes are interdependent, and each one can induce the other, creating a vicious circle. A placebo-controlled blind study was carried out in show jumping horses (n. 16) to evaluate the effects of a commercial dietary supplement (Dolhorse® N.B.F. Lanes srl, Milan, Italy) containing Verbascum thapsus leaf powder (1.42%), Curcuma longa (14.280 mg/kg), and Boswellia serrata (Roxb ex Colebr) (14.280 mg/kg) extracts. Before and after 10 days of dietary supplementation, blood samples were collected to evaluate the protein levels, antioxidants, and inflammatory responses by proteomic analysis or real-time Reverse Transcriptase-Polymerase Chain Reaction (real-time RT-PCR). A total of 36 protein spots, connected to 29 proteins, were modulated by dietary supplementation, whereas real-time RT-PCR revealed a significant downregulation of proinflammatory cytokines (interleukin 1α (p < 0.05) and interleukin-6 (0.005), toll-like receptor 4 (p < 0.05), and IKBKB (p < 0.05) in supplemented sport horses. Immunoglobulin chains, gelsolin, plasminogen, vitamin D binding protein, apolipoprotein AIV, and filamin B were overexpressed, whereas haptoglobin, α-2-HS-glycoprotein, α2-macroglobulin, afamin, amine oxidase, 60S acidic ribosomal protein, and complement fragments 3, 4, and 7 were reduced. No effect was observed on the antioxidant defense systems. The present results suggest this phytotherapy may reinforce the innate immune responses, thus representing a valid adjuvant to alleviate inflammation, which is a pathophysiological process in sport horses.
Influence of Tribolayer on Rolling Bearing Fatigue Performed on an FE8 Test Rig—A Follow-up
Authors: Franke Joerg W. H. , Fritz Janine , Koenig Thomas , Merk Daniel
Published: March 2023

The tribological contact between raceways and rolling elements is essential for rolling bearing performance and lifetime. The geometrical description of these contacts is well known and can be used in several mechanical simulation tools. The material description, especially of the near-surface volume after interaction with lubricants, is not as simple. In particular, the Schaeffler FE8-25 test with cylindrical roller thrust bearings exhibits different failure modes depending on the lubricant chemistry. The main failure mechanisms of this test are sub-surface fatigue damage due to WECs (White Etching Cracks) and/or surface-induced fatigue damage (SIF). The harsh test conditions with mixed friction at high speeds and multiple slip conditions over the raceway width additionally provides different tribological conditions on a small area. This leads finally to the formation of certain tribological layers on the raceway because of the interaction of the surface with the lubricant chemistry under local frictional energies, which are worth investigating. The characterization of the layers was performed by the two less time-consuming, spatially resolved analysis methods of µXRF and ATR FTIR microscopy adapted by Schaeffler. This paper shows the results of this research and offers new approaches to optimizing rolling bearing testing and predicting the risk of early failures.
Analysis of TiO2 Nanolubricant Influence in Micro Deep Drawing of Stainless Steel SUS301
Authors: Pan Di , Zhang Guangqing , Jia Fanghui , Li Lianjie , Zhang Tao , Lu Yao , Wu Hui , Yang Ming , Jiang Zhengyi
Published: March 2023

To improve the quality of products produced from microforming, various nanolubricants have been applied in the field of micromanufacturing in recent years. In this paper, the effects of glycerol-based lubricant containing TiO2 NPs (NPs) on micro deep drawing (MDD) of austenitic stainless steel (ASS) SUS301 were studied, and the lubrication mechanism involved was discussed. The MDD experiments were conducted with the SUS301 foils under dry, 1, 2, and 4 wt% TiO2 NP lubrication conditions. The results show that the use of the TiO2 nanolubricants can significantly improve the quality of the drawn cups in terms of decreased wrinkling and surface roughness. Besides, the concentration of TiO2 NPs influences lubricity by reducing friction during the MDD process. The peak drawing force is the lowest when 2 wt% nanolubricant is applied, which drops to 72.54 N from 77.38 N under dry conditions. The micro cup drawn under 2 wt% TiO2 nanolubricant has the best quality among those obtained under all the lubrication conditions. The lubrication mechanisms are derived from the mending effects of TiO2 NPs and the formation of thin lubricant films associated with the open lubricant pockets (OLPs) and close lubricant pocket (CLPs) theory in the MDD. The CLPs function as reservoirs that retain lubricants to counteract the load pressure, whereas the OLPs lead to lubricant leakage due to the higher flow resistance. It was found that the lubricant film and NPs are insufficient at a low concentration (1 wt%), while the lubrication performance can be enhanced with increased NP concentration. However, there exist apparent agglomerations on the surface of the produced micro cup when using 4 wt% nanolubricant, which greatly deteriorates the lubricant performance in the MDD process. It is concluded that the lubricant containing 2 wt% TiO2 NPs demonstrates the best lubrication performance during the MDD of ASS SUS301.
Influence of the Addition of Rare Earth Elements on the Energy Storage and Optical Properties of Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3–0.06BaTiO3 Polycrystalline Thin Films
Authors: Alaoui Ilham Hamdi , Moussa Mebarki , Lemée Nathalie , Le Marrec Françoise , Cantaluppi Anna , Favry Delphine , Lahmar Abdelilah
Published: March 2023

Rare earth element-doped Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3–BaTiO3 (BNT–BT–RE) polycrystalline thin films were processed on a platinized substrate by chemical solution deposition. The microstructure, dielectric, and ferroelectric properties were investigated for all prepared films. It was found that the incorporation of rare earth elements into the BNT–BT matrix increases both the dielectric constant and the breakdown strength while maintaining low dielectric losses, leading to an enhancement of the energy storage density to Wrec = 12 and 16 J/cm3 under an effective field of E = 2500 kV/cm, for Nd- and Dy-based films, respectively. The optical properties of films containing the lanthanide element were investigated and the obtained results bear interest for luminescence applications. The simultaneous appearance of ferroelectric and optical properties in the system under investigation is very promising for advanced optoelectronic devices.
Valorization of Vegetal Fibers (Hemp, Flax, Miscanthus and Bamboo) in a Fiber Reinforced Screed (FRS) Formulation
Authors: Pons Ribera Sergio , Hamzaoui Rabah , Colin Johan , Bessette Laetitia , Audouin Marie
Published: March 2023

A persistent rise in the costs of construction materials has led to the need to address this problem in line with the Sustainable Development Goals. This research employed vegetal soft and rigid fibers in a screed mortar to produce a sustainable fabric–cement matrix. Four different vegetal-dried fibers (hemp, flax, miscanthus, and bamboo) with dosages of 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, 1.2, 2, and 4 kg/m3 were used. Laboratory investigations were slump test, bulk density, air occluded, shrinkage, and mechanical strength. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) assessments were performed and analyzed on the natural fibers and the screed formulation. The results highlight that fiber dosages significantly influence the above-mentioned properties.
A Review of Pectin-Based Material for Applications in Water Treatment
Authors: Martínez-Sabando Javier , Coin Francesco , Melillo Jorge H. , Goyanes Silvia , Cerveny Silvina
Published: March 2023

Climate change and water are inseparably connected. Extreme weather events cause water to become more scarce, polluted, and erratic than ever. Therefore, we urgently need to develop solutions to reduce water contamination. This review intends to demonstrate that pectin-based materials are an excellent route to detect and mitigate pollutants from water, with several benefits. Pectin is a biodegradable polymer, extractable from vegetables, and contains several hydroxyl and carboxyl groups that can easily interact with the contaminant ions. In addition, pectin-based materials can be prepared in different forms (films, hydrogels, or beads) and cross-linked with several agents to change their molecular structure. Consequently, the pectin-based adsorbents can be tuned to remove diverse pollutants. Here, we will summarize the existing water remediation technologies highlighting adsorption as the ideal method. Then, the focus will be on the chemical structure of pectin and, from a historical perspective, on its structure after applying different cross-linking methods. Finally, we will review the application of pectin as an adsorbent of water pollutants considering the pectin of low degree methoxylation.
A Study of Aluminum Honeycomb Structures under Dynamic Loading, with Consideration Given to the Effects of Air Leakage
Authors: Ciepielewski Radosław , Miedzińska Danuta
Published: March 2023

Aluminum honeycomb structures are used in the construction of protective materials due to the positive relationship between their mass and their energy-absorbing properties. Applying such materials in the construction of large machinery, such as military vehicles, requires the development of a new method of finite element modeling, one that considers conditions with high strain rates, because a material model is currently lacking in the available simulation software, including LS-DYNA. In the present study, we proposed and verified a method of numerically modeling honeycomb materials using a simplified Y element. Results with a good level of agreement between the full core model and the Y element were achieved. The obtained description of the material properties was used in the subsequent creation of a homogeneous model. In addition, we considered the influence of increases in pressure and the leakage of the air entrapped in the honeycomb cells. As a result, we were able to attain a high level of accuracy regarding the stress values across the entire range of progressive failure, from the loss of stability to full core densification, and across a wide range of strain rates.
Analytical Method for the Optimization of the Open-Hole and Filled-Hole Laminates at the Preliminary Design Stage
Authors: Sajid Zubair , Karuppanan Saravanan , Eng Kee Kok , Shah Syed Zulfiqar Hussain
Published: March 2023

In recent years, there has been an increasing interest in open-hole and filled-hole laminate failure analysis. The open and filled-hole laminate failure analysis is used in several important areas, especially in designing mechanically fastened composite joints. Various analytical, empirical, and numerical methods are available for the design of mechanically fastened composite joints. The large number of material and geometrical design variables at the preliminary design stage makes the empirical and numerical methods effortful, expensive, and time-consuming. Therefore, analytical methods are recommended over numerical and empirical methods at the preliminary design stage merely because of their simplification in calculations, making them computationally efficient. Taking this into consideration, current research presents an improvement to the analysis capabilities of the previously introduced analytical method, i.e., the coupled approach of Classical laminate theory (CLT) and Lekhnitskii solutions. These improvements include the development of failure envelops for the open-hole and filled-hole laminates, estimation of optimized filling material for attaining maximum load-bearing capacity of filled-hole laminates, and optimization of stacking sequence for maximum load-bearing capacity of open-hole and filled-hole laminates. From the failure envelop results, it was found that failure envelopes of filled-hole laminates are bigger than open-hole laminates. Furthermore, it was found that the stiffness of the filling material should be equal to the stiffness of the laminate to achieve maximum bearing strength of the filled-hole laminate. It was also demonstrated that the coupled approach of CLT and Lekhnitskii solutions may provide carpet plots that can be utilized to optimize the stacking sequence for open-hole and filled-hole laminates.
The Formation and Phase Stability of A-Site High-Entropy Perovskite Oxides
Authors: Zhang Junzhan , Liu Shangyi , Tian Zhifeng , Zhang Ying , Shi Zongmo
Published: March 2023

High entropy perovskite oxides (HEPOs) were a class of advanced ceramic materials, which had attracted much scientific attention in recent years. However, the effect of factors affecting the phase stability of high entropy perovskite oxides was still controversial. Herein, 17 kinds of A-site HEPOs were synthesized by solid-state methods, and several criteria for the formation of HEPOs and phase stability were investigated. Single-phase solid solutions were synthesized in 12 kinds of subsystems. The results show that the phase stability of a single-phase solid solution was affected by the size disorder and configurational entropy. The electronegativity difference was the key parameter to predict the evolution of the cubic/tetragonal phase, rather than the tolerance factor. Cubic HEPOs were easily formed when the electronegativity difference was <0.4, while the tetragonal HEPOs were easily formed when the electronegativity difference was ≥0.4. This study can further broaden the family of HEPOs and is expected to design the phase stability of HEPOs through electronegativity difference.
Mn- and Yb-Doped BaTiO3-(Na0.5Bi0.5)TiO3 Ferroelectric Relaxor with Low Dielectric Loss
Authors: Gui Dong-Yun , Ma Xiao-Yong , Yuan Hu-Die , Wang Chun-Hai
Published: March 2023

In this work, a Mn-and Yb-doped BaTiO3-(Na0.5Bi0.5)TiO3 ferroelectric relaxor was designed and prepared. The effects of Mn on the microstructures, dielectric and electrical properties of the ceramics were investigated. The X-ray structural analysis shows a perovskite structure. The SEM images show the homogeneous microstructure of ceramics with an average grain size of about 1 μm. The temperature-dependent permittivity shows relaxor characteristics as Mn-doped. Mn at a low level (x ≤ 0.005) is beneficial for low dielectric loss and high resistivity. The maximum resistivity of ≥3 × 1012 Ω cm and minimum dielectric loss of ≤0.06 can be achieved at x ≤ 0.005. The resistivity of the ceramics follows the Arrhenius law with activation energy decreasing from ~1.31 to 1.01 eV as x increases. With lower Mn dopant, oxygen vacancies and charge carrier concentration partially decrease with Mn doping, which is helpful to improve the insulation resistance and decrease the dielectric loss.