bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Microstructures of TiC–Ti5Si3-Reinforced Cu Matrix Composites Prepared by Ti–SiC Reaction
Authors: Zhang Chaoxian , Zhang Xiao , Miao Wenzhi , Wu Jiangmin , Qi Fugong , Zhou Jiyu , Ding Haimin
Published: March 2023

In this work, the TiC and Ti5Si3-reinforced Cu matrix composites with different contents were successfully prepared through Ti–SiC reaction in Cu melts; accordingly, the microstructures of them were studied, and the hardness of the composites was tested. It is found that the synthesized TiC are granular, with a size ranging from 0.5 μm to 3 μm, while the Ti5Si3 are rod-like hexagonal prisms with a diameter of about 1 μm and a length-to-diameter ratio of about 5~25. In addition, it is noticed that many Ti5Si3 rods are actually Cu@Ti5Si3 core–shell structure rods. TiC and Ti5Si3 alternately distribute in the Cu matrix to form the hybrid reinforcement system. With the increase in Ti–SiC content, the TiC particles, Ti5Si3 rods and Cu@Ti5Si3 increased obviously, and the solid skeleton structure of TiC–Ti5Si3 was formed. The hardness of the composites was 2.2 to 2.74 times greater than that of the as-cast pure copper. It is deduced that, compared to the composites reinforced by either TiC or Ti5Si3, the formation of the TiC–Ti5Si3 hybrid system is more helpful for improving the properties of the composites due to the different morphologies of TiC and Ti5Si3.
Study of Morphology and Corrosion Behavior of Aluminum Coatings on Steel Substrates under Simulated Acid Rain Conditions
Authors: Li Bo , Fan Lei , Wen Yi , He Jinhang , Su Jianfeng , Zhou Shiyuan , Liu Shifeng , Zhang Zhiqing
Published: March 2023

In this paper, aluminum coatings were prepared on a steel substrate by thermal spraying, and the corrosion morphology and corrosion resistance of the coating were investigated by salt spray and immersion tests. The results showed that after three months of salt spray tests, the coating still exhibited a surface morphology without significant damage and had good damage tolerance. Further effective protection of the substrate can be achieved by spraying the coating surface with paint. After three months of immersion test, the corrosion rate of samples with thicker coatings was located between 0.002 mm/y and 0.005 mm/y, and only a small amount of corrosion products was observed on the coating surface. The coated samples after salt spray and immersion tests maintained sufficient adhesion (17.07 MPa and 19.25 MPa), and the surface aluminum coating was highly reliable for protection of the steel substrate. In general, the reliability of the coating can be further improved by painting the surface of the thicker Al coating. This provides more ideas for the protection of transmission and transformation equipment.
Production of Refined and Modified Closed-Cell Aluminum Foams by Melt-Foaming Method
Authors: Poot Manzanilla Alberto Jesús , Cruz Ramírez Alejandro , Colin García Eduardo , Romero Serrano José Antonio , Sánchez Alvarado Ricardo Gerardo , Suárez Rosales Miguel Ángel
Published: March 2023

Closed-cell A356 aluminum alloy foams refined and modified were successfully fabricated by using barite and calcium carbonate as thickening and foaming agents, respectively. A melt treatment consisting of adding master alloys of Al-5Ti-1B and Al-10Sr for refining the dendritic microstructure and modifying the primary eutectic silicon, respectively, were included in the foaming process. The microstructure and mechanical properties of the foams manufactured were analyzed and compared with foams produced without the refining and modifying treatments. The secondary dendritic arm spacing (SDAS) was determined by optical measurements. Lower SDAS values were obtained in foam regions closer to the mold walls due to the high solidification rate imposed during the cooling step and a decrease in the SDAS values for the foams produced with the addition of the Al-5Ti-1B master alloy was evident. Additionally, the addition of the Al-10Sr master alloy caused the formation of solid solution dendrites and a fine irregular fibrous form of silicon. Foams produced with the melt treatment exhibit a good combination of structure and mechanical properties. Therefore, the melt route established is a feasible way to improve foam performance where the lowest SDAS and the highest mechanical properties were obtained for the closed-cell foams produced.
A Pilot Study on Biochemical Profile of Follicular Fluid in Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Castiglione Morelli Maria , Iuliano Assunta , Matera Ilenia , Viggiani Licia , Schettini Sergio , Colucci Paola , Ostuni Angela
Published: March 2023

Breast cancer (BC) is the most common type of cancer among women in almost all countries worldwide and is one of the oncological pathologies for which is indicated fertility preservation, a type of procedure used to help keep a person’s ability to have children. Follicular fluid (FF) is a major component of oocyte microenvironment, which is involved in oocyte growth, follicular maturation, and in communication between germ and somatic cells; furthermore, it accumulates all metabolites during oocytes growth. To obtain information about changes on fertility due to cancer, we aimed at investigating potential biomarkers to discriminate between FF samples obtained from 16 BC patients and 10 healthy women undergoing in vitro fertilization treatments. An NMR-based metabolomics approach was performed to investigate the FF metabolic profiles; ELISA and western blotting assays were used to investigate protein markers of oxidative and inflammatory stress, which are processes closely related to cancer. Our results seem to suggest that FFs of BC women display some significant metabolic alterations in comparison to healthy controls, and these variations are also related with tumor staging.
Biosynthesis of Phytocannabinoids and Structural Insights: A Review
Authors: Govindarajan Rasiravathanahalli Kaveriyappan , Mishra Awdhesh Kumar , Cho Kiu-Hyung , Kim Ki-Hyun , Yoon Kyoung Mi , Baek Kwang-Hyun
Published: March 2023

Cannabis belongs to the family Cannabaceae, and phytocannabinoids are produced by the Cannabis sativa L. plant. A long-standing debate regarding the plant is whether it contains one or more species. Phytocannabinoids are bioactive natural products found in flowers, seeds, and fruits. They can be beneficial for treating human diseases (such as multiple sclerosis, neurodegenerative diseases, epilepsy, and pain), the cellular metabolic process, and regulating biological function systems. In addition, several phytocannabinoids are used in various therapeutic and pharmaceutical applications. This study provides an overview of the different sources of phytocannabinoids; further, the biosynthesis of bioactive compounds involving various pathways is elucidated. The structural classification of phytocannabinoids is based on their decorated resorcinol core and the bioactivities of naturally occurring cannabinoids. Furthermore, phytocannabinoids have been studied in terms of their role in animal models and antimicrobial activity against bacteria and fungi; further, they show potential for therapeutic applications and are used in treating various human diseases. Overall, this review can help deepen the current understanding of the role of biotechnological approaches and the importance of phytocannabinoids in different industrial applications.
NMR-Based Metabolomics Demonstrates a Metabolic Change during Early Developmental Stages from Healthy Infants to Young Children
Authors: Freitas-Fernandes Liana Bastos , Fontes Gabriela Pereira , Letieri Aline dos Santos , Valente Ana Paula , Souza Ivete Pomarico Ribeiro de , Fidalgo Tatiana Kelly da Silva
Published: March 2023

The present study aims to identify the salivary metabolic profile of healthy infants and young children, and to correlate this with age, salivary gland maturation, and dentition. Forty-eight children were selected after clinical evaluation in which all intraoral structures were examined. Total unstimulated saliva was collected, and salivary metabolites were analyzed by 1H Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) at 25 °C. Partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA), orthogonal PLS-DA (O-PLS-DA), and univariate analysis were used, adopting a 95% confidence interval. The study showed a distinct salivary metabolomic profile related to age and developmental phase. The saliva of children in the pre-eruption teeth period showed a different metabolite profile than that of children after the eruption. However, more evident changes were observed in the saliva profile of children older than 30 months. Alanine, choline, ethanol, lactate, and sugar region were found in higher levels in the saliva of patients before 30 months old. Acetate, N-acetyl sugar, butyrate, caproate, creatinine, leucine, phenylalanine, propionate, valine, succinate, and valerate were found to be more abundant in the saliva of children after 30 months old. The saliva profile is a result of changes in age and dental eruption, and these findings can be useful for monitoring the physiological changes that occur in infancy.
In Silico Prediction of Metabolic Reaction Catalyzed by Human Aldehyde Oxidase
Authors: Huang Mengting , Zhu Keyun , Wang Yimeng , Lou Chaofeng , Sun Huimin , Li Weihua , Tang Yun , Liu Guixia
Published: March 2023

Aldehyde oxidase (AOX) plays an important role in drug metabolism. Human AOX (hAOX) is widely distributed in the body, and there are some differences between species. Currently, animal models cannot accurately predict the metabolism of hAOX. Therefore, more and more in silico models have been constructed for the prediction of the hAOX metabolism. These models are based on molecular docking and quantum chemistry theory, which are time-consuming and difficult to automate. Therefore, in this study, we compared traditional machine learning methods, graph convolutional neural network methods, and sequence-based methods with limited data, and proposed a ligand-based model for the metabolism prediction catalyzed by hAOX. Compared with the published models, our model achieved better performance (ACC = 0.91, F1 = 0.77). What’s more, we built a web server to predict the sites of metabolism (SOMs) for hAOX. In summary, this study provides a convenient and automatable model and builds a web server named Meta-hAOX for accelerating the drug design and optimization stage.
The System’s Point of View Applied to Dielectrophoresis in Plate Capacitor and Pointed-versus-Pointed Electrode Chambers
Authors: Gimsa Jan , Radai Michal M.
Published: March 2023

The DEP force is usually calculated from the object’s point of view using the interaction of the object’s induced dipole moment with the inducing field. Recently, we described the DEP behavior of high- and low-conductive 200-µm 2D spheres in a square 1 × 1-mm chamber with a plane-versus-pointed electrode configuration from the system’s point of view. Here we extend our previous considerations to the plane-versus-plane and pointed-versus-pointed electrode configurations. The trajectories of the sphere center and the corresponding DEP forces were calculated from the gradient of the system’s overall energy dissipation for given starting points. The dissipation’s dependence on the sphere’s position in the chamber is described by the numerical “conductance field”, which is the DC equivalent of the capacitive charge-work field. While the plane-versus-plane electrode configuration is field-gradient free without an object, the presence of the highly or low-conductive spheres generates structures in the conductance fields, which result in very similar DEP trajectories. For both electrode configurations, the model describes trajectories with multiple endpoints, watersheds, and saddle points, very high attractive and repulsive forces in front of pointed electrodes, and the effect of mirror charges. Because the model accounts for inhomogeneous objectpolarization by inhomogeneous external fields, the approach allows the modeling of the complicated interplay of attractive and repulsive forces near electrode surfaces and chamber edges. Non-reversible DEP forces or asymmetric magnitudes for the highly and low-conductive spheres in large areas of the chamber indicate the presence of higher-order moments, mirror charges, etc.
Island-Type Graphene-Nanotube Hybrid Structures for Flexible and Stretchable Electronics: In Silico Study
Authors: Slepchenkov Michael M. , Barkov Pavel V. , Glukhova Olga E.
Published: March 2023

Using the self-consistent charge density functional tight-binding (SCC-DFTB) method, we study the behavior of graphene-carbon nanotube hybrid films with island topology under axial deformation. Hybrid films are formed by AB-stacked bilayer graphene and horizontally aligned chiral single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) with chirality indices (12,6) and 1.2 nm in diameter. In hybrid films, bilayer graphene is located above the nanotube, forming the so-called “islands” of increased carbon density, which correspond to known experimental data on the synthesis of graphene-nanotube composites. Two types of axial deformation are considered: stretching and compression. It has been established that bilayer graphene-SWCNT (12,6) hybrid films are characterized by elastic deformation both in the case of axial stretching and axial compression. At the same time, the resistance of the atomic network of bilayer graphene-SWCNT (12,6) hybrid films to failure is higher in the case of axial compression. Within the framework of the Landauer-Buttiker formalism, the current-voltage characteristics of bilayer graphene-SWCNT (12,6) hybrid films are calculated. It is shown that the slope of the current-voltage characteristic and the maximum values of the current are sensitive to the topological features of the bilayer graphene in the composition of graphene-SWCNT (12,6) hybrid film. Based on the obtained results, the prospects for the use of island-type graphene-nanotube films in flexible and stretchable electronic devices are predicted.
Modeling and Simulation Investigation of Ferroelectric-Based Electrostatic Doping for Tunnelling Field-Effect Transistor
Authors: Wang Dong , Liu Hongxia , Zhang Hao , Cai Ming , Lin Jinfu
Published: March 2023

In this paper, a novel ferroelectric-based electrostatic doping (Fe-ED) nanosheet tunneling field-effect transistor (TFET) is proposed and analyzed using technology computer-aided design (TCAD) Sentaurus simulation software. By inserting a ferroelectric film into the polarity gate, the electrons and holes are induced in an intrinsic silicon film to create the p-source and the n-drain regions, respectively. Device performance is largely independent of the chemical doping profile, potentially freeing it from issues related to abrupt junctions, dopant variability, and solid solubility. An improved ON-state current and ION/IOFF ratio have been demonstrated in a 3D-calibrated simulation, and the Fe-ED NSTFET’s on-state current has increased significantly. According to our study, Fe-ED can be used in versatile reconfigurable nanoscale transistors as well as highly integrated circuits as an effective doping strategy.
Nearly Reversible Expansion and Shrinkage of Casein Microparticles Triggered by Extreme pH Changes
Authors: Gebhardt Ronald , Pütz Thomas , Schulte Jann
Published: March 2023

Solvent flows in the fL/s range across the total surface of a casein microparticle cause its expansion and shrinkage. Microparticles prepared from the milk protein casein have a porous and flexible inner structure with water-filled channels and cavities. Solvent uptake occurs in two phases and results in disintegration if de-swelling is not triggered by acidification. So far, nothing is known about the reversibility of the swelling/de-swelling steps. We performed pH jump experiments between pH 11 and pH 1 on a single micro-particle and analyzed the swelling-induced size changes with system dynamics modeling. Both the swelling steps and the subsequent de-swelling process proceed reversibly and at an unchanged rate over a sequence of at least three pH exchange cycles. We observed that the duration of the first swelling step increased during the sequence, while the second step became shorter. Both of the time intervals are negatively correlated, while a statistical evaluation of only one swelling cycle for an ensemble of microparticles with different stabilities did not reveal any significant correlation between the two parameters. Our results indicate that the pH-induced swelling/shrinkage of casein microparticles is, to a large extent, reversible and only slightly influenced by the acid-induced decomposition of colloidal calcium phosphate.
Flow Cytometry with Anti-Diffraction Light Sheet (ADLS) by Spatial Light Modulation
Authors: Gong Yanyan , Zeng Ming , Zhu Yueqiang , Li Shangyu , Zhao Wei , Zhang Ce , Zhao Tianyun , Wang Kaige , Yang Jiangcun , Bai Jintao
Published: March 2023

Flow cytometry is a widespread and powerful technique whose resolution is determined by its capacity to accurately distinguish fluorescently positive populations from negative ones. However, most informative results are discarded while performing the measurements of conventional flow cytometry, e.g., the cell size, shape, morphology, and distribution or location of labeled exosomes within the unpurified biological samples. Herein, we propose a novel approach using an anti-diffraction light sheet with anisotroic feature to excite fluorescent tags. Constituted by an anti-diffraction Bessel–Gaussian beam array, the light sheet is 12 μm wide, 12 μm high, and has a thickness of ~0.8 μm. The intensity profile of the excited fluorescent signal can, therefore, reflect the size and allow samples in the range from O (100 nm) to 10 μm (e.g., blood cells) to be transported via hydrodynamic focusing in a microfluidic chip. The sampling rate is 500 kHz, which provides a capability of high throughput without sacrificing the spatial resolution. Consequently, the proposed anti-diffraction light sheet flow cytometry (ADLSFC) can obtain more informative results than the conventional methodologies, and is able to provide multiple characteristics (e.g., the size and distribution of fluorescent signal) helping to distinguish the target samples from the complex backgrounds.
Chronic Stability of Local Field Potentials Using Amorphous Silicon Carbide Microelectrode Arrays Implanted in the Rat Motor Cortex
Authors: Jeakle Eleanor N. , Abbott Justin R. , Usoro Joshua O. , Wu Yupeng , Haghighi Pegah , Radhakrishna Rahul , Sturgill Brandon S. , Nakajima Shido , Thai Teresa T. D. , Pancrazio Joseph J. , Cogan Stuart F. , Hernandez-Reynoso Ana G.
Published: March 2023

Implantable microelectrode arrays (MEAs) enable the recording of electrical activity of cortical neurons, allowing the development of brain-machine interfaces. However, MEAs show reduced recording capabilities under chronic conditions, prompting the development of novel MEAs that can improve long-term performance. Conventional planar, silicon-based devices and ultra-thin amorphous silicon carbide (a-SiC) MEAs were implanted in the motor cortex of female Sprague–Dawley rats, and weekly anesthetized recordings were made for 16 weeks after implantation. The spectral density and bandpower between 1 and 500 Hz of recordings were compared over the implantation period for both device types. Initially, the bandpower of the a-SiC devices and standard MEAs was comparable. However, the standard MEAs showed a consistent decline in both bandpower and power spectral density throughout the 16 weeks post-implantation, whereas the a-SiC MEAs showed substantially more stable performance. These differences in bandpower and spectral density between standard and a-SiC MEAs were statistically significant from week 6 post-implantation until the end of the study at 16 weeks. These results support the use of ultra-thin a-SiC MEAs to develop chronic, reliable brain-machine interfaces.
Editorial for the Special Issue on Recent Advances in Inkjet Technology
Authors: Sohn Dong Kee
Published: March 2023

Inkjet is a well-established technology that has been applied in various applications ranging from graphical printing to functional material printing [...]
Design of Multi-DC Overdriving Waveform of Electrowetting Displays for Gray Scale Consistency
Authors: Xu Yijian , Li Shixiao , Wang Ziyang , Zhang Heng , Li Zikai , Xiao Bo , Guo Wei , Liu Linwei , Bai Pengfei
Published: March 2023

Gray scale consistency in pixels was extremely important for electrowetting displays (EWDs). However, traditional electrowetting display driving waveforms could not obtain a pixel aperture ratio consistency, which led to the occurrence of gray inconsistency even if it was the same driving waveform. In addition, the oil backflow caused by charge trapping could not be sustained. Therefore, a multi-direct current (DC) overdriving waveform for gray scale consistency was proposed in this paper, which could effectively improve the performance of EWDs. The driving waveform was divided into a start-up driving phase and a stable driving phase. The stable driving phase was composed of a square wave with a duty cycle of 79% and a frequency of 43 Hz. Subsequently, an overdriving pulse was also introduced in the stable driving phase. The multi-DC driving waveform for gray scale consistency was applied to a thin film transistor-electrowetting display (TFT-EWD). The average difference between increasing driving voltage and decreasing driving voltage was only 2.79%. The proposed driving waveform has an aperture ratio of 3.7 times at low voltages compared to DC driving.
Self-Adaption of the GIDL Erase Promotes Stacking More Layers in 3D NAND Flash
Authors: Yang Tao , Zhang Bao , Wang Qi , Jin Lei , Xia Zhiliang
Published: March 2023

The bit density is generally increased by stacking more layers in 3D NAND Flash. Gate-induced drain leakage (GIDL) erase is a critical enabler in the future development of 3D NAND Flash. The relationship between the drain-to-body potential (Vdb) of GIDL transistors and the increasing number of layers was studied to explain the reason for the self-adaption of the GIDL erase. The dynamics controlled by the drain-to-body and drain-to-gate potential contribute to the self-adaption of the GIDL erase. Increasing the number of layers leads to a longer duration of the maximum value of Vdb (Vdb_max), combined with the increased drain-to-gate potential, which enhances the GIDL current and further boosts channel potential to reach the same value at different positions of the NAND string. We proposed a method based on the correlation between the duration of Vdb_max and the number of layers to obtain the limited layers of the GIDL erase. The limited layers allowed are more than four times the number of layers used in the current simulation. Combining the novel method of dividing the channel into multi-regions with the asynchronous GIDL erase method will be useful for further stacking more layers in 3D NAND Flash.
Analysis and Hardening of SEGR in Trench VDMOS with Termination Structure
Authors: Wang Yuan , Liu Tao , Qian Lingli , Wu Hao , Yu Yiren , Tao Jingyu , Cheng Zijun , Hu Shengdong
Published: March 2023

Single-event gate-rupture (SEGR) in the trench vertical double-diffused power MOSFET (VDMOS) occurs at a critical bias voltage during heavy-ion experiments. Fault analysis demonstrates that the hot spot is located at the termination of the VDMOS, and the gate oxide in the termination region has been damaged. The SEGR-hardened termination with multiple implantation regions is proposed and simulated using the Sentaurus TCAD. The multiple implantation regions are introduced, leading to an increase in the distance between the gate oxide and the hole accumulation region, as well as a decrease in the resistivity of the hole conductive path. This approach is effective in reducing the electric field of the gate oxide to below the calculated critical field, and results in a lower electric field than the conventional termination.
Storage and Algal Association of Bacteria That Protect Microchloropsis salina from Grazing by Brachionus plicatilis
Authors: Fisher Carolyn L. , Fong Michelle V. , Lane Pamela D. , Carlson Skylar , Lane Todd W.
Published: March 2023

Loss of algal production from the crashes of algal mass cultivation systems represents a significant barrier to the economic production of microalgal-based biofuels. Current strategies for crash prevention can be too costly to apply broadly as prophylaxis. Bacteria are ubiquitous in microalgal mass production cultures, however few studies investigate their role and possible significance in this particular environment. Previously, we demonstrated the success of selected protective bacterial communities to save Microchloropsis salina cultures from grazing by the rotifer Brachionus plicatilis. In the current study, these protective bacterial communities were further characterized by fractionation into rotifer-associated, algal-associated, and free-floating bacterial fractions. Small subunit ribosomal RNA amplicon sequencing was used to identify the bacterial genera present in each of the fractions. Here, we show that Marinobacter, Ruegeria, and Boseongicola in algae and rotifer fractions from rotifer-infected cultures likely play key roles in protecting algae from rotifers. Several other identified taxa likely play lesser roles in protective capability. The identification of bacterial community members demonstrating protective qualities will allow for the rational design of microbial communities grown in stable co-cultures with algal production strains in mass cultivation systems. Such a system would reduce the frequency of culture crashes and represent an essentially zero-cost form of algal crop protection.
Challenges and Recent Advancements in COVID-19 Vaccines
Authors: Wang Shao-Cheng , Rai Chung-I , Chen Yuan-Chuan
Published: March 2023

Vaccination is the most effective method for the prevention of COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2, which is still a global epidemic. However, the evolution of SARS-CoV-2 is so rapid that various variants, including the Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta, and Omicron variants, have emerged, lowering the protection rate of vaccines and even resulting in breakthrough infections. Additionally, some rare but severe adverse reactions induced by COVID-19 vaccines may raise safety concerns and hinder vaccine promotion; however, clinical studies have shown that the benefits of vaccination outweigh the risks caused by adverse reactions. Current vaccines approved with emergency use authorization (EUA) were originally adaptive for adults only, and infants, children, and adolescents are not included. New-generation vaccines are needed to overcome the challenges of limited adaptive age population, breakthrough infection (mainly due to virus variant emergencies), and critical adverse reactions. Fortunately, some advances in COVID-19 vaccines have been obtained regarding enlarged adaptive populations for clinical applications, such as the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine and the Moderna vaccine. In this article, we provide a review on the challenges and recent advancements in COVID-19 vaccines. The development of next-generation COVID-19 vaccines should lay emphasis on the expansion of adaptive age populations in all individuals, the induction of immune responses to viral variants, the avoidance or alleviation of rare but potentially critical adverse reactions, and the discovery of subunit vaccines with adjuvants encapsulated in nanoparticles.
Mucosa-Associated Oscillospira sp. Is Related to Intestinal Stricture and Post-Operative Disease Course in Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Zhan Shukai , Liu Caiguang , Meng Jixin , Mao Ren , Tu Tong , Lin Jianming , Chen Minhu , Zeng Zhirong , Zhuang Xiaojun
Published: March 2023

Intestinal stricture remains one of the most intractable complications in Crohn’s disease (CD), and the involved mechanisms are poorly understood. Accumulating evidence suggests that the gut microbiota contributes to the pathogenesis of intestinal fibrosis. In this study, we investigated specific mucosa-associated microbiota related to intestinal strictures and their role in predicting postoperative disease course. Twenty CD patients who had undergone operative treatments were enrolled and followed up. Intestinal mucosa and full-thickness sections from stenotic and non-stenotic sites were sterilely collected. DNA extraction and bacterial 16s rRNA gene sequencing were conducted. Radiological and histological evaluations were performed to assess fibrosis. Microbial alpha diversity was significantly decreased in stenotic sites (p = 0.009). At the genus level, Lactobacillus, Oscillospira, Subdoligranulum, Hydrogenophaga, Clostridium and Allobaculum were decreased in stenotic segments (p < 0.1). The difference in Oscillospira sp. (stenotic vs. non-stenotic) was negatively correlated with the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (correlation coefficient (CC) −0.432, p = 0.057) and white blood cell count (CC −0.392, p = 0.087) and positively correlated with serum free fatty acids (CC 0.575, p < 0.05). This difference was negatively associated with intestinal fibrosis evaluated by imagological and histological methods (CC −0.511 and −0.653, p < 0.05). Furthermore, CD patients with a higher abundance of Oscillospira sp. in the residual intestine might experience longer remission periods (p < 0.05). The mucosa-associated microbiota varied between stenotic and non-stenotic sites in CD. Most notably, Oscillospira sp. was negatively correlated with intestinal fibrosis and postoperative disease course. It could be a promising biomarker to predict post-operative disease recurrence and a microbial-based therapeutic target.
The Immobility of Uranium (U) in Metamorphic Fluids Explained by the Predominance of Aqueous U(IV)
Authors: Zhang Min , Zhong Richen , Yu Chang , Cui Hao
Published: March 2023

The solubility of uranium (U) in hydrothermal fluid is thought to be controlled by oxidation. In general, uranium is mainly transported as U(VI) in oxidized fluid, but precipitated as U(IV) in reduced fluid. However, many geological observations indicate that metamorphic fluids, which are buffered by metamorphic rocks with oxidized protoliths such as oxidized pelite or altered marine basalt, are not enriched in U. To explore the reason of the low solubility of U in metamorphic fluids, we simulated the hydrous speciation and solubility of U in fluids that are in equilibrium with rocks. The simulations were conducted at pressure–temperature (P-T) conditions of greenschist and amphibolite facies metamorphism. The results show that U is mainly dissolved as U(IV), instead of U(VI), in metamorphic fluids. The solubility of U remains at a low level of ~10−12 molal, and is not significantly influenced by metamorphic temperature, pressure, and fluid salinity. This result is consistent with geological observations and, thus, can explain the low-U nature of natural metamorphic fluids. The simulation also shows high solubility of U(VI) (1.3 × 10−7 molal) in oxidized pelite-buffered fluids at low temperature (<250 °C), consistent with the geological fact that U can be mobilized by low-temperature geofluids.
Triaxial Test Study on Energy Evolution of Marble after Thermal Cycle
Authors: Wu Qi , Li Bowen , Jiang Xuehai
Published: March 2023

With the increasing requirements for the exploitation of underground resources, the subject of the physical and mechanical properties of rocks under high temperature and pressure needs to be studied urgently. In order to analyze the mechanical and energy characteristics of rocks under different thermal damages and confining pressures (c), a triaxial compression test is performed on 35 marble samples. The effects of thermal damage and high pressure are simulated with different thermal cycles and confining pressures. The results show that as the number of thermal cycles increases, the peak strain of marble gradually rises, but the peak stress and the elastic modulus (E) decrease by a degree, reaching 11.19‰, 39.53 MPa, 4.79 GPa, while there is no confining pressure applied at eight thermal cycles. At this point, the failure mode gradually changes from brittle fracture to plastic failure. When confining pressure rises, peak stress, peak strain, and elastic modulus all show an upward trend, reaching a maximum of 189.45 MPa, 13.39‰, 35.41 GPa, while the sample is undamaged at 30 MPa confining pressure. Moreover, peak stress increases linearly with confining pressure increase. The increased rate of the peak value of the total absorbed energy, elastic strain energy, and dissipated energy all show a convex trend. The dissipated energy gradually increases with the axial strain (ε1) during the rock loading process. The elastic strain energy has an energy storage limit, but the rock fails when the value exceeds the limit. The limit increases first and then decreases with the number of thermal cycles. These results can provide important engineering references for mining underground resources.
Single Crystal Growth of Synthetic Sulfide- and Phosphide-Based Minerals for Physical Measurements
Authors: Canfield Paul C. , Slade Tyler J.
Published: March 2023

In this work, we review recent advances in the use of high-temperature solution growth that allow for the growth of single crystalline samples of synthetic minerals. We outline how low-melting binary or ternary solutions are attractive solvents for solution growth and provide examples of the growth of bismuthinite (Bi2S3), galena (PbS) and parkerite (Ni3Bi2S2). We then focus on the Rh-S, Pd-S and Ni-P phase spaces to discuss how the low-melting regions near transition metal-main group eutectic compositions make excellent solvents for crystal growth of several binary and ternary minerals containing both high melting and volatile elements as well as for the discovery of new materials. We end by discussing the growth of synthetic canfieldite (Ag8SnS6) and argyrodite (Ag8GeS6) from Ag2S–Sn-S-based solutions.
The Geochemical Characteristics of Source Rock and Oil in the Fukang Sag, Junggar Basin, NW China
Authors: Li Bocai , Tang Youjun , Chen Zhonghong , Wang Yifeng , He Daxiang , Yan Kai , Chen Lin
Published: March 2023

The Fukang Sag in the Junggar Basin is the main exploration block. However, the origin and source of crude oil are still controversial, which seriously affects the well locating and exploration in this area. In the present work, 30 source rocks and 21 crude oils were collected for geochemical analysis to clarify the source of the organic matter, the sedimentary environment, and the evolution degree. Among them, the source rocks of the Pingdiquan Formation are type II1 organic matter with good quality, the source rocks of the Badaowan Formation are type II2-III organic matter with fair–good quality, and the source rocks of the Xishanyao Formation are type II2 organic matter with fair quality. All source rocks are in the mature stage. The results of the biomarker compounds show that the lacustrine mudstone of the Xishanyao Formation and the coal-measure mudstone of the Badaowan Formation were deposited in reducing environments. The former was mainly from lower aquatic organisms, and the latter was from terrestrial higher plants. The mudstone of the Pingdiquan Formation was formed in a weakly oxidizing–weakly reducing depositional environment, and its parent material was of mixed origin. Based on the results of the biomarker compounds and carbon isotopes, the crude oils were divided into three categories. The Family I crude oil has the characteristics of low maturity, low salinity, and more input of low-level aquatic organisms, and the carbon isotope has a good affinity with the lacustrine mudstone of the Xishanyao Formation. The Family II crude oil shows medium maturity, low salinity, mainly higher plant input, and heavy carbon isotope, mainly derived from the Badaowan Formation coal-measure mudstone. The Family III crude oil is characterized by high maturity, high salinity, mixed parent materials, and light carbon isotope and originates from the mudstone of the Pingdiquan Formation. The results provide a reference for oil and gas exploration and development in the eastern area of the Junggar Basin; the future research will focus on well areas with high maturity near the Fukang fault zone.
A Toxicological Study of the Respirable Coal Mine Dust: Assessment of Different Dust Sources within the Same Mine
Authors: Das Milton , Salinas Vanessa , LeBoeuf Jason , Khan Rifat , Jacquez Quiteria , Camacho Alexandra , Hovingh Mark , Zychowski Katherine , Rezaee Mohammad , Roghanchi Pedram , Rubasinghege Gayan
Published: March 2023

Respirable coal mine dust (RCMD) exposure is one of the utmost health hazards to the mining community causing various health issues, including coal worker pneumoconiosis (CWP). Considering multiple potential sources of RCMD having different physicochemical properties within the same mine suggests a wide range of health impacts that have not yet been studied extensively. In this work, we investigate the toxicity of lab-created RCMD based on different sources: coal seam, rock dust, host floor, and host roof collected from the same mine. Comparative samples obtained from several mines situated in various geographic locations were also assessed. This work quantifies metal leaching in simulated lung fluids and correlates dissolution with in vitro immune responses. Here, dissolution experiments were conducted using two simulated lung fluids; Gamble solution (GS) and artificial lysosomal fluid (ALF). In vitro studies were performed using a lung epithelial cell line (A549) to investigate their immune responses and cell viability. Si and Al are the most dissolved metals, among several other trace metals, such as Fe, Sr, Ba, Pb, etc. RCMD from the coal seam and the rock dust showed the least metal leaching, while the floor and roof samples dissolved the most. Results from in vitro studies showed a prominent effect on cell viability for floor and roof dust samples suggesting high toxicity.
Treatment Technology and Research Progress of Residual Xanthate in Mineral Processing Wastewater
Authors: Yuan Jiaqiao , Li Suqi , Ding Zhan , Li Jie , Yu Anmei , Wen Shuming , Bai Shaojun
Published: March 2023

Xanthate is the most widely used and effective collector in the flotation of sulfide minerals. However, the residual xanthate in flotation wastewater may cause serious environmental pollution and even human health hazards. At present, a variety of treatment technologies have been developed to degrade xanthate pollutants in wastewater, with the aim of meeting safe discharge standards. This work reviews the research status of xanthate wastewater treatment technologies in recent years. Treatment technologies are evaluated, including coagulation flocculation, adsorption, microbiological, Fenton, ozone oxidation, and photocatalytic methods. The reaction mechanisms and advantages, as well as disadvantages, of the various treatment technologies are summarized. Future research on the treatment of xanthate wastewater should focus on combined methods, which will be conducive to achieving a high efficiency and low cost, with no secondary pollution, and with the aim of generating further original and innovative technologies.
Cementitious Backfill with Partial Replacement of Cu-Rich Mine Tailings by Sand: Rheological, Mechanical and Microstructural Properties
Authors: Guner Nihat Utku , Yilmaz Erol , Sari Muhammet , Kasap Tugrul
Published: March 2023

The thinning of tailings gradation during ore processing leads to a sizeable fall in the strength of cementitious paste backfill (CPB), increases operational risks, and encourages researchers to use alternative economic products. This study aims to increase the strength performance by improving CPB’s gradation while cutting costs and reducing the sum of the binder employed per unit volume. An evolution of the slump/strength/structural properties of sand-substituted CPBs was explored experimentally. Samples were made with a fixed cement content (7 wt.%), diverse tailings/sand fractions (e.g., 100/0, 90/10, 80/20, 70/30, and 50/50), and diverse solid contents (e.g., 72 and 76 wt.%). After curing for 3–56 days, several experiments, such as slump, uniaxial compressive strength (UCS), mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), were undertaken for the filling samples. The results demonstrate that adding sand to the backfill greatly increases CPB’s strength (up to 99%), but the replacement rate of sand was limited to 30% due to its segregation effect. Microstructural tests reveal that CPB’s void volume decreases as the added amount of sand increases. To sum up, it was concluded that calcareous sand made a major contribution to the filling strength, incorporating the effects of enhancing the fill gradation’s readjustment and reducing the sum of cement being used in the unit volume for CPB manufacturing.
Review of Polymetallic Mineralization in the Sila and Serre Massifs (Calabria, Southern Italy)
Authors: Fregola Rosa Anna , Ciccolella Antonio , Festa Vincenzo , Ruggieri Giovanni , Schingaro Emanuela , Tursi Fabrizio , Ventruti Gennaro
Published: March 2023

We provide an updated overview of the known mineral deposits from the Sila and Serre Massifs in Calabria, contributing to setting their genesis within a complex geologic history, starting from the late-Carboniferous. We summarize the mineralization reported in the literature, with a critical review of the host tectonic units, by taking into account the upgrades in the knowledge of these areas. We also set them in updated geological maps and in stratigraphic columns, highlighting the crustal levels to which they pertain. Despite the geologic and minerogenetic similarities potentially existing with late- to post-Variscan mineral deposits from other regions (e.g., Sardinia and French Central Massif), the scientific literature on the Calabria mineralization is out-of-date and not exhaustive. Moreover, these ore deposits were likely considered not economically attractive enough to stimulate new scientific studies. However, in our opinion, such studies are needed to resolve the main open questions, which rely on deciphering the origin and age of mineralization. Finally, research for critical elements hosted by the Sila and Serre mineralization (e.g., In, Ge and Ga in sphalerites) is a possible interesting new perspective.
β-Carboline Alkaloids in Soy Sauce and Inhibition of Monoamine Oxidase (MAO)
Authors: Herraiz Tomás
Published: March 2023

Monoamine oxidase (MAO) oxidizes neurotransmitters and xenobiotic amines, including vasopressor and neurotoxic amines such as the MPTP neurotoxin. Its inhibitors are useful as antidepressants and neuroprotectants. This work shows that diluted soy sauce (1/3) and soy sauce extracts inhibited human MAO-A and -B isozymes in vitro, which were measured with a chromatographic assay to avoid interferences, and it suggests the presence of MAO inhibitors. Chromatographic and spectrometric studies showed the occurrence of the β-carboline alkaloids harman and norharman in soy sauce extracts inhibiting MAO-A. Harman was isolated from soy sauce, and it was a potent and competitive inhibitor of MAO-A (0.4 µM, 44 % inhibition). The concentrations of harman and norharman were determined in commercial soy sauces, reaching 243 and 52 μg/L, respectively. Subsequently, the alkaloids 1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-β-carboline-3-carboxylic acid (THCA) and 1-methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-β-carboline-3-carboxylic acid (MTCA) were identified and analyzed in soy sauces reaching concentrations of 69 and 448 mg/L, respectively. The results show that MTCA was a precursor of harman under oxidative and heating conditions, and soy sauces increased the amount of harman under those conditions. This work shows that soy sauce contains bioactive β-carbolines and constitutes a dietary source of MAO-A and -B inhibitors.
Ferrocenophanium Stability and Catalysis
Authors: Bezawada Sai Anvesh , Ušto Neira , Wilke Chloe , Barnes-Flaspoler Michael , Jagan Rajamoni , Bauer Eike B.
Published: March 2023

Ferrocenium catalysis is a vibrant research area, and an increasing number of ferrocenium-catalyzed processes have been reported in the recent years. However, the ferrocenium cation is not very stable in solution, which may potentially hamper catalytic applications. In an effort to stabilize ferrocenium-type architectures by inserting a bridge between the cyclopentadienyl rings, we investigated two ferrocenophanium (or ansa-ferrocenium) cations with respect to their stability and catalytic activity in propargylic substitution reactions. One of the ferrocenophanium complexes was characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction. Cyclic voltammetry experiments of the ferrocenophane parent compounds were performed in the absence and presence of alcohol nucleophiles, and the stability of the cations in solution was judged based on the reversibility of the electron transfer. The experiments revealed a moderate stabilizing effect of the bridge, albeit the effect is not very pronounced or straightforward. Catalytic propargylic substitution test reactions revealed decreased activity of the ferrocenophanium cations compared to the ferrocenium cation. It appears that the somewhat stabilized ferrocenophanium cations show decreased catalytic activity.
Antileishmanial and Antiplasmodial Activities of Secondary Metabolites from the Root of Antrocaryon klaineanum Pierre (Anacardiaceae)
Authors: Amang à Ngnoung Gabrielle , Sidjui Lazare , Leutcha Peron , Nganso Ditchou Yves , Tchokouaha Lauve , Herbette Gaëtan , Baghdikian Beatrice , Kowa Theodora , Soh Desire , Kemzeu Raoul , Poka Madan , Demana Patrick , Siwe Noundou Xavier , Tchinda Alembert , Fekam Boyom Fabrice , Lannang Alain , Nyassé Barthélemy
Published: March 2023

Antrocaryon klaineanum is traditionally used for the treatment of back pain, malaria, female sterility, chlamydiae infections, liver diseases, wounds, and hemorrhoid. This work aimed at investigating the bioactive compounds with antileishmanial and antiplasmodial activities from A. klaineanum. An unreported glucocerebroside antroklaicerebroside (1) together with five known compounds (2–6) were isolated from the root barks of Antrocaryon klaineanum using chromatographic techniques. The NMR, MS, and IR spectroscopic data in association with previous literature were used for the characterization of all the isolated compounds. Compounds 1–4 are reported for the first time from A. klaineanum. The methanol crude extract (AK-MeOH), the n-hexane fraction (AK-Hex), the dichloromethane fraction (AK-DCM), the ethyl acetate fraction (AK-EtOAc), and compounds 1–6 were all evaluated for their antiparasitic effects against Plasmodium falciparum strains susceptible to chloroquine (3D7), resistant to chloroquine (Dd2), and promastigotes of Leishmania donovani (MHOM/SD/62/1S). The AK-Hex, AK-EtOAc, AK-MeOH, and compound 2 were strongly active against Dd2 strain with IC50 ranging from 2.78 ± 0.06 to 9.30 ± 0.29 µg/mL. Particularly, AK-MeOH was the most active—more than the reference drugs used—with an IC50 of 2.78 ± 0.06 µg/mL. The AK-EtOAc as well as all the tested compounds showed strong antileishmanial activities with IC50 ranging from 4.80 ± 0.13 to 9.14 ± 0.96 µg/mL.
Chemical Composition and In Vitro Antioxidant Activity and Anti-Acetylcholinesterase Activity of Essential Oils from Tadehagi triquetrum (L.) Ohashi
Authors: Song Wenzhi , Xu Ziyue , Gao Peizhong , Liu Xu
Published: March 2023

The present study aimed to determine the chemical compositions of essential oils (EOs) from Tadehagi triquetrum (L.) Ohashi and evaluate their antioxidant and anti-cholinesterase activity under the comprehensive influence of chemical components. The essential oils were extracted from T. triquetrum (L.) Ohashi by hydrodistillation. A total of 58 organic compounds were identified by GC-FID and GC-MS analysis. The major components of T. triquetrum (L.) Ohashi EOs were identified as palmitic acid (22.46%), 1-Octen-3-ol (14.07%), Caryophyllene (7.20%), (Z)-18-Octadec-9-enolide (6.04%), and 3-Hexen-1-ol (4.55%). The antioxidant activity of the essential oils was determined by using ABTS assay, DPPH assay, and FRAP assay, with IC50 values of 2.12 ± 0.05 mg/mL, 4.73 ± 0.91 mg/mL against the ABTS, DPPH, and FRAP value 117.42 ± 8.10 mM/g. The result showed that it had moderate antioxidant activities in the experiment, which why it is likely that it will be used as an antioxidant. At the same time, the EOs also showed moderate anti-acetylcholinesterase activity. This study expands the chemical and biological knowledge of the EOs of T. triquetrum.