bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fatty Acid Composition of the Lipids from Atlantic Salmon—Comparison of Two Extraction Methods without Halogenated Solvents
Authors: Nechev Jordan T. , Edvinsen Guro K. , Eilertsen Karl-Erik
Published: January 2021

The scope of this paper was to apply two recently developed methods for lipid extraction: the methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) method and the BUME method. These two methods do not include halogenated solvents, which makes them less hazardous to the environment, less toxic, and needed in less volume compared to the standard methods for lipid extraction. Fatty acid composition of the lipids from Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar Linnæus, 1758) was obtained by both procedures. The methods were effective and thirty-three fatty acids were identified. The amounts of the omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids obtained by the MTBE method were found to be similar to the overall mean values observed in farmed salmon. The yield of the total lipids obtained by the BUME method was 13% lower. Although the methods involved different solvents, they showed similar fatty acids profile of the lipids from Atlantic salmon. Both methods were validated and some practical challenges were discussed.
A Broadband Signal Recycling Scheme for Approaching the Quantum Limit from Optical Losses
Authors: Zhang Teng , Bentley Joe , Miao Haixing
Published: January 2021

Quantum noise limits the sensitivity of laser interferometric gravitational-wave detectors. Given the state-of-the-art optics, the optical losses define the lower bound of the best possible quantum-limited detector sensitivity. In this work, we come up with a broadband signal recycling scheme which gives a potential solution to approaching this lower bound by converting the signal recycling cavity to be a broadband signal amplifier using an active optomechanical filter. We will show the difference and advantage of such a scheme compared with the previous white light cavity scheme using the optomechanical filter in [Phys.Rev.Lett.115.211104 (2015)]. The drawback is that the new scheme is more susceptible to the thermal noise of the mechanical oscillator.
A Fluid Dynamics Approach for Assessing the Intelligent Geomorphic Design of the Japanese Pufferfish Nest
Authors: Shameem Abdulla Jailam , Valyrakis Manousos , Zare-Behtash Hossein
Published: January 2021

Research into the geometric nests built by white-spotted pufferfish indicated the nest’s potential for flow control and reduction in flow velocity. However, studies to date have only focused on the construction process and behaviour of the male pufferfish. Hence, the form and functions of the unique features of the nest remain unclear. The present study aims to explore the flow features most useful in understanding the habitat conditions of the nest through a combination of photogrammetric reconstructions of the nest features and two-dimensional (2D) computational fluid dynamic simulations. The findings show the role of the nest structure in reducing the flow velocity and shear stress within the nesting site. Analysis of shear stress indicates that male pufferfish build the outer zones of the nest with coarser material that improves the overall shear strength of these areas. The study identified the function of the nest structure in the protection of the eggs through reduction in flow variations and improved aeration. The addition of shell fragments to the nest peaks by the male pufferfish contributes to the resiliency of the nest structure and ensures a stable bed surface at the central zone.
Quality Improvement Project of a Massive Transfusion Protocol (MTP) to Reduce Wastage of Blood Components
Authors: Paganini Matteo , Abowali Hesham , Bosco Gerardo , Balouch Maha , Enten Garrett , Deng Jin , Shander Aryeh , Ciesla David , Wilson Jason , Camporesi Enrico
Published: January 2021

Massive transfusion protocols (MTPs) facilitate the organized delivery of blood components for traumatically injured patients. MTPs vary across institutions, and ratios of blood components can change during clinical management. As a result, significant amounts of components can be wasted. We completed a review of all MTP activations from 2015 to 2018, providing an in-depth analysis of waste in our single Level 1 trauma center. An interdepartmental group analyzed patterns of blood component wastage to guide three quality improvement initiatives. Specifically, we (1) completed a digital timeline for each MTP activation and termination, (2) improved communications between departments, and (3) provided yearly training for all personnel about MTP deployment. The analysis identified an association between delayed MTP deactivations and waste (RR = 1.48, CI 1.19–1.85, p = 0.0005). An overall improvement in waste was seen over the years, but this could not be attributed to increased closed-loop communication as determined by the proportion of non-stop activations (F(124,3) = 0.98, not significant). Delayed MTP deactivations are the primary determinant of blood component waste. Our proactive intervention on communications between groups was not sufficient in reducing the number of delayed deactivations. However, implementing a digital timeline and regular repetitive training yielded a significant reduction in wasted blood components.
Towards Achieving Sustainable Development: Role of Technology Innovation, Technology Adoption and CO2 Emission for BRICS
Authors: Su Chi-Wei , Xie Yannong , Shahab Sadaf , Faisal Ch. Muhammad Nadeem , Hafeez Muhammad , Qamri Ghulam Muhammad
Published: January 2021

In the digital era, technology innovation and adoption trigger economic growth and enhance CO2 emissions through productivity, which places it in the mainstream policy debate. For BRICS economies, this paper uses the first method proposed in the literature to quantify their information and communication technology (ICT) and innovatively links each country to their information technology adoption rate, as a surrogate indicator for measuring information and communication technology. Environmental Kuznets curve evidence is also examined, using technology innovation, technology adoption, and trade openness as the control variables for sustainable development. The results show that two out of three technology innovation instruments, fixed telephone, and broadband subscriptions increase CO2 emissions. Simultaneously, mobile cellular subscriptions have a lowering effect on CO2 emission in BRICS. The technology adoption indicators, high-technology exports, and electric power consumption also cause an upsurge in CO2 emission. Moreover, trade openness also enriches the level of CO2 emission in the BRICS regions. There is a need to devise technology innovation and adoption policies to better use technology and to ensure a green environment.
OsPP2C09 Is a Bifunctional Regulator in Both ABA-Dependent and Independent Abiotic Stress Signaling Pathways
Authors: Min Myung Ki , Kim Rigyeong , Hong Woo-Jong , Jung Ki-Hong , Lee Jong-Yeol , Kim Beom-Gi
Published: January 2021

Clade A Type 2C protein phosphatases (PP2CAs) negatively regulate abscisic acid (ABA) signaling and have diverse functions in plant development and in response to various stresses. In this study, we showed that overexpression of the rice ABA receptor OsPYL/RCAR3 reduces the growth retardation observed in plants exposed to osmotic stress. By contrast, overexpression of the OsPYL/RCAR3-interacting protein OsPP2C09 rendered plant growth more sensitive to osmotic stress. We tested whether OsPP2CAs activate an ABA-independent signaling cascade by transfecting rice protoplasts with luciferase reporters containing the drought-responsive element (DRE) or ABA-responsive element (ABRE). We observed that OsPP2CAs activated gene expression via the cis-acting drought-responsive element. In agreement with this observation, transcriptome analysis of plants overexpressing OsPP2C09 indicated that OsPP2C09 induces the expression of genes whose promoters contain DREs. Further analysis showed that OsPP2C09 interacts with DRE-binding (DREB) transcription factors and activates reporters containing DRE. We conclude that, through activating DRE-containing promoters, OsPP2C09 positively regulates the drought response regulon and activates an ABA-independent signaling pathway.
Establishment of a New Device for Electrical Stimulation of Non-Degenerative Cartilage Cells In Vitro
Authors: Krueger Simone , Riess Alexander , Jonitz-Heincke Anika , Weizel Alina , Seyfarth Anika , Seitz Hermann , Bader Rainer
Published: January 2021

In cell-based therapies for cartilage lesions, the main problem is still the formation of fibrous cartilage, caused by underlying de-differentiation processes ex vivo. Biophysical stimulation is a promising approach to optimize cell-based procedures and to adapt them more closely to physiological conditions. The occurrence of mechano-electrical transduction phenomena within cartilage tissue is physiological and based on streaming and diffusion potentials. The application of exogenous electric fields can be used to mimic endogenous fields and, thus, support the differentiation of chondrocytes in vitro. For this purpose, we have developed a new device for electrical stimulation of chondrocytes, which operates on the basis of capacitive coupling of alternating electric fields. The reusable and sterilizable stimulation device allows the simultaneous use of 12 cavities with independently applicable fields using only one main supply. The first parameter settings for the stimulation of human non-degenerative chondrocytes, seeded on collagen type I elastin-based scaffolds, were derived from numerical electric field simulations. Our first results suggest that applied alternating electric fields induce chondrogenic re-differentiation at the gene and especially at the protein level of human de-differentiated chondrocytes in a frequency-dependent manner. In future studies, further parameter optimizations will be performed to improve the differentiation capacity of human cartilage cells.
First Report of CRISPR/Cas9 Mediated DNA-Free Editing of 4CL and RVE7 Genes in Chickpea Protoplasts
Authors: Badhan Sapna , Ball Andrew S. , Mantri Nitin
Published: January 2021

The current genome editing system Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats Cas9 (CRISPR/Cas9) has already confirmed its proficiency, adaptability, and simplicity in several plant-based applications. Together with the availability of a vast amount of genome data and transcriptome data, CRISPR/Cas9 presents a massive opportunity for plant breeders and researchers. The successful delivery of ribonucleoproteins (RNPs), which are composed of Cas9 enzyme and a synthetically designed single guide RNA (sgRNA) and are used in combination with various transformation methods or lately available novel nanoparticle-based delivery approaches, allows targeted mutagenesis in plants species. Even though this editing technique is limitless, it has still not been employed in many plant species to date. Chickpea is the second most crucial winter grain crop cultivated worldwide; there are currently no reports on CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing in chickpea. Here, we selected the 4-coumarate ligase (4CL) and Reveille 7 (RVE7) genes, both associated with drought tolerance for CRISPR/Cas9 editing in chickpea protoplast. The 4CL represents a key enzyme involved in phenylpropanoid metabolism in the lignin biosynthesis pathway. It regulates the accumulation of lignin under stress conditions in several plants. The RVE7 is a MYB transcription factor which is part of regulating circadian rhythm in plants. The knockout of these selected genes in the chickpea protoplast using DNA-free CRISPR/Cas9 editing represents a novel approach for achieving targeted mutagenesis in chickpea. Results showed high-efficiency editing was achieved for RVE7 gene in vivo compared to the 4CL gene. This study will help unravel the role of these genes under drought stress and understand the complex drought stress mechanism pathways. This is the first study in chickpea protoplast utilizing CRISPR/Cas9 DNA free gene editing of drought tolerance associated genes.
On the Role of Central Type-1 Cannabinoid Receptor Gene Regulation in Food Intake and Eating Behaviors
Authors: Pucci Mariangela , Zaplatic Elizabeta , Micioni Di Bonaventura Maria Vittoria , Micioni Di Bonaventura Emanuela , De Cristofaro Paolo , Maccarrone Mauro , Cifani Carlo , D’Addario Claudio
Published: January 2021

Different neuromodulatory systems are involved in long-term energy balance and body weight and, among these, evidence shows that the endocannabinoid system, in particular the activation of type-1 cannabinoid receptor, plays a key role. We here review current literature focusing on the role of the gene encoding type-1 cannabinoid receptors in the CNS and on the modulation of its expression by food intake and specific eating behaviors. We point out the importance to further investigate how environmental cues might have a role in the development of obesity as well as eating disorders through the transcriptional regulation of this gene in order to prevent or to treat these pathologies.
Crucial Role of FABP3 in αSyn-Induced Reduction of Septal GABAergic Neurons and Cognitive Decline in Mice
Authors: Matsuo Kazuya , Yabuki Yasushi , Melki Ronald , Bousset Luc , Owada Yuji , Fukunaga Kohji
Published: January 2021

In synucleinopathies, while motor symptoms are thought to be attributed to the accumulation of misfolded α-synuclein (αSyn) in nigral dopaminergic neurons, it remains to be elucidated how cognitive decline arises. Here, we investigated the effects of distinct αSyn strains on cognition and the related neuropathology in the medial septum/diagonal band (MS/DB), a key region for cognitive processing. Bilateral injection of αSyn fibrils into the dorsal striatum potently impaired cognition in mice. The cognitive decline was accompanied by accumulation of phosphorylated αSyn at Ser129 and reduction of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-ergic but not cholinergic neurons in the MS/DB. Since we have demonstrated that fatty acid-binding protein 3 (FABP3) is critical for αSyn neurotoxicity in nigral dopaminergic neurons, we investigated whether FABP3 also participates in αSyn pathology in the MS/DB and cognitive decline. FABP3 was highly expressed in GABAergic but rarely in cholinergic neurons in the MS/DB. Notably, Fabp3 deletion antagonized the accumulation of phosphorylated αSyn, decrease in GABAergic neurons, and cognitive impairment caused by αSyn fibrils. Overall, the present study indicates that FABP3 mediates αSyn neurotoxicity in septal GABAergic neurons and the resultant cognitive impairment, and that FABP3 in this subpopulation could be a therapeutic target for dementia in synucleinopathies.
Investigating the Factors Affecting the Ionic Conduction in Nanoconfined NaBH4
Authors: Luo Xiaoxuan , Rawal Aditya , Aguey-Zinsou Kondo-Francois
Published: January 2021

Nanoconfinement is an effective strategy to tune the properties of the metal hydrides. It has been extensively employed to modify the ionic conductivity of LiBH4 as an electrolyte for Li-ion batteries. However, the approach does not seem to be applicable to other borohydrides such as NaBH4, which is found to reach a limited improvement in ionic conductivity of 10−7 S cm−1 at 115 °C upon nanoconfinement in Mobil Composition of Matter No. 41 (MCM-41) instead of 10−8 S cm−1. In comparison, introducing large cage anions in the form of Na2B12H12 naturally formed upon the nanoconfinement of NaBH4 was found to be more effective in leading to higher ionic conductivities of 10−4 S cm−1 at 110 °C.
Effect of Silane Functionalization on Properties of Poly(Lactic Acid)/Palygorskite Nanocomposites
Authors: Kasprzhitskii Anton , Lazorenko Georgy , Kruglikov Alexander , Kuchkina Irina , Gorodov Vadim
Published: January 2021

Poly(lactic acid) (PLA)/palygorskite (Paly) nanocomposites were prepared using the melt compounding technique. Paly modified by 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) and vinyltrimethoxysilane (VTMS) was used as nanofiller for PLA with concentrations in the 1–7 wt% range. It has been found that the functionalization allows a covalent bond between the hydroxyl groups of the Paly and the PLA matrix, evidenced by the improvement in mechanical properties. Paly modification with VTMS has better properties compared with Pale modification with APTES. This indicates a better adhesion between the Paly-VTMS and PLA matrix, and a good dispersion of the nanofiller in the polymer matrix.
MoCA vs. MMSE of Fibromyalgia Patients: The Possible Role of Dual-Task Tests in Detecting Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Murillo-Garcia Alvaro , Leon-Llamas Juan Luis , Villafaina Santos , Rohlfs-Dominguez Paloma , Gusi Narcis
Published: January 2021

Fibromyalgia is a syndrome that is characterized by widespread pain; fatigue; stiffness; reduced physical fitness; sleep disturbances; psychological symptoms, such as anxiety and depression; and deficits in cognitive functions, such as attention, executive function, and verbal memory deficits. It is important to analyze the potentially different performance on the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) test in patients with fibromyalgia as well as examine the relationship of that performance with physical and cognitive performance. A total of 36 women with fibromyalgia participated in the study. Participants completed the MoCA test, the MMSE, and the TUG physical fitness test under dual-task conditions. The results obtained on cognitive tests were 28.19 (1.74) on the MMSE and 25.17 (2.79) on the MoCA. The participants’ performance on cognitive tests was significantly related to the results of the TUG dual-task test. In this way, cognitive performance on a dual-task test can be used to support the diagnosis of cognitive impairment in patients with fibromyalgia. The MoCA test may be a more sensitive cognitive screening tool than the MMSE for patients with fibromyalgia.
A User-Friendly Protocol for Mandibular Segmentation of CBCT Images for Superimposition and Internal Structure Analysis
Authors: Li Chenshuang , Lin Leanne , Zheng Zhong , Chung Chun-Hsi
Published: January 2021

Background: Since cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) technology has been widely adopted in orthodontics, multiple attempts have been made to devise techniques for mandibular segmentation and 3D superimposition. Unfortunately, as the software utilized in these methods are not specifically designed for orthodontics, complex procedures are often necessary to analyze each case. Thus, this study aimed to establish an orthodontist-friendly protocol for segmenting the mandible from CBCT images that maintains access to the internal anatomic structures. Methods: The “sculpting tool” in the Dolphin 3D Imaging software was used for segmentation. The segmented mandible images were saved as STL files for volume matching in the 3D Slicer to validate the repeatability of the current protocol and were exported as DICOM files for internal structure analysis and voxel-based superimposition. Results: The mandibles of all tested CBCT datasets were successfully segmented. The volume matching analysis showed high consistency between two independent segmentations for each mandible. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) analysis on 20 additional CBCT mandibular segmentations further demonstrated the high consistency of the current protocol. Moreover, all of the anatomical structures for superimposition identified by the American Board of Orthodontics were found in the voxel-based superimposition, demonstrating the ability to conduct precise internal structure analyses with the segmented images. Conclusion: An efficient and precise protocol to segment the mandible while retaining access to the internal structures was developed on the basis of CBCT images.
Emergency Management of Pelvic Bleeding
Authors: Frassini Simone , Gupta Shailvi , Granieri Stefano , Cimbanassi Stefania , Sammartano Fabrizio , Scalea Thomas M. , Chiara Osvaldo
Published: January 2021

Pelvic trauma continues to have a high mortality rate despite damage control techniques for bleeding control. The aim of our study was to evaluate how Extra-peritoneal Pelvic Packing (EPP) and Resuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion of the Aorta (REBOA) impact the efficacy on mortality and hemodynamic impact. We retrospectively evaluated patients who sustained blunt trauma, pelvic fracture and hemodynamic instability from 2002 to 2018. We excluded a concomitant severe brain injury, resuscitative thoracotomy, penetrating trauma and age below 14 years old. The study population was divided in EPP and REBOA Zone III group. Propensity score matching was used to adjust baseline differences and then a one-to-one matched analysis was performed. We selected 83 patients, 10 for group: survival rate was higher in EPP group, but not significantly in each outcome we analyzed (24 h, 7 day, overall). EPP had a significant increase in main arterial pressure after procedure (+20.13 mmHg, p < 0.001), but this was not as great as the improvement seen in the REBOA group (+45.10 mmHg, p < 0.001). EPP and REBOA are effective and improve hemodynamic status: both are reasonable first steps in a multidisciplinary management. Zone I REBOA may be useful in patients ‘in extremis condition’ with multiple sites of torso hemorrhage, particularly those in extremis.
Economic Calculus Qua an Instrument to Support Sustainable Development under Increasing Risk
Authors: Drozdowski Grzegorz
Published: January 2021

Investment decisions in the field of sustainable development should be taken based on an economic calculation, taking into account the analysis of a diverse economic environment. The economic calculus of an enterprise is treated as a kind of way of thinking about the rationality of decisions made by an entrepreneur. In the case of sustainable development, the economic calculus serves as an instrument to support the selection of the investment measure. The result of the economic calculus is based on various types of economic parameters, which are subject to frequent changes and high risk. A risk-based financial account may be of little use in the context of the unpredictability of the forecasted situations. In the article, I attempted to determine the importance of a variable interest rate in the economic calculus of a company as an instrument to support sustainable development. For this purpose, I modified the Net Present Value (NPV) meter, which contains actual (variable) discount rates.
A Contract Theory Approach to Islamic Financial Securities with an Application to Diminishing Mushārakah
Authors: Arbi Lukman Hanif
Published: January 2021

This paper demonstrates how the contract theory framework can and should complement standard financial mathematics for analysing Islamic financial securities (IFSs). It is motivated by the perception that most valuations of IFSs are rather simplistic and are as simple as risk and reward, leading to very simplistic investment strategies, especially by buyers. In fact, there are more dimensions to IFSs and IF in general which can only be properly analysed with more advanced approaches, such as contractual issues which are well-recognised and discussed in the fields of Islamic commercial law and contract theory but not always considered in valuation models. Contract theory can bring together financial mathematics and contractual issues, providing a more sophisticated framework for analysing IFSs. This paper aims to demonstrate this by providing a brief outline of the contract theory approach, followed by a simple demonstration of its use in the analysis of diminishing mushārakah (DM) contracts. The resulting model led to three main conclusions regarding DM contracts: That (i) finance seekers have no ready incentive to spend on asset maintenance, (ii) finance seekers will only spend on asset maintenance if their marginal benefit from the asset’s appreciation is greater than the financier’s share of the asset, and (iii) if the magnitude of asset appreciation and depreciation is equal, an increase in either will also increase the optimal level of spending on asset maintenance.
Entrepreneurial Finance: Research, Practice, and Policy for Post-Covid-19 Economic Recovery
Authors: Terjesen Siri
Published: January 2021

This issue comprises nine highly downloaded and cited articles in the Journal of Risk and Financial Management [...]
On Investigating the Microstructural, Mechanical, and Tribological Properties of Hybrid FeGr1/SiC/Gr Metal Matrix Composites
Authors: Feldshtein Eugene E. , N. Dyachkova Larisa , Patalas-Maliszewska Justyna
Published: January 2021

In recent years, studies of different properties of hybrid metal matrix composites, as well as very detailed issues, have been published. In this article, ready-made iron, graphite, and silicon carbide powders were used to produce the base material and composites. An analysis of some microstructural and mechanical properties, as well as the tribological behavior of metal matrix composites (MMCs), based on FeGr1 sintered material with the single and hybrid addition of a silicon carbide and graphite was undertaken. During the study, the flexural and compressive strength of MMCs were analyzed and changes of the momentary coefficient of friction, the temperature of friction, as well as wear rates of the MMCs tested were monitored. Based on the results, it was revealed that wear rates decreased 12-fold in comparison to the base material when SiC or SiC + Gr were added. Further research into MMCs with ceramic particle additives is proposed.
A Comparative Study on Skid Resistance of Concrete Pavements Differing in Texturing Technique
Authors: Gierasimiuk Pawel , Wasilewska Marta , Gardziejczyk Wladyslaw
Published: January 2021

The paper presents a comparison of the skid resistance of concrete pavements textured with different techniques in the process of simulating phenomena occurring in actual road conditions. Tests were carried out on five different texturing methods for concrete pavements: burlap drag (BuD), brush drag (BrD), transverse tining (TT), longitudinal tining (LT) and exposed aggregate concrete (EAC). Changes in the skid resistance were recorded by measurements with a British pendulum tester and a circular texture meter before and during the simulation of the abrasion (1st phase of test) and polishing (2nd phase of test) of specimens using a slab polisher. The results of BPN (British pendulum number) and MPD (mean profile depth) allowed us to determine the influence of microtexture and macrotexture on skid resistance. Analysis of variance showed that the method of texturing concrete pavements has a significant influence on the mean BPN values as well as the MPD parameter at each stage of the test. In order to distinguish homogeneous groups in terms of BPN and MPD levels at the particular stages of the process, the Tukey’s HSD (honest significant difference) post-hoc test was performed. It was found that EAC obtained the most favorable results of all the tested pavement types. Due to the high value of the MPD coefficient after the test and the appropriate values of the friction coefficient, it was confirmed that the EAC pavement will be a durable solution due to the guarantee of skid resistance on high-speed roads during its service life.
Optimality Conditions for Group Sparse Constrained Optimization Problems
Authors: Wu Wenying , Peng Dingtao
Published: January 2021

In this paper, optimality conditions for the group sparse constrained optimization (GSCO) problems are studied. Firstly, the equivalent characterizations of Bouligand tangent cone, Clarke tangent cone and their corresponding normal cones of the group sparse set are derived. Secondly, by using tangent cones and normal cones, four types of stationary points for GSCO problems are given: TB-stationary point, NB-stationary point, TC-stationary point and NC-stationary point, which are used to characterize first-order optimality conditions for GSCO problems. Furthermore, both the relationship among the four types of stationary points and the relationship between stationary points and local minimizers are discussed. Finally, second-order necessary and sufficient optimality conditions for GSCO problems are provided.
AhaP, A Quorum Quenching Acylase from Psychrobacter sp. M9-54-1 That Attenuates Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Vibrio coralliilyticus Virulence
Authors: Reina José Carlos , Romero Manuel , Salto Rafael , Cámara Miguel , Llamas Inmaculada
Published: January 2021

Although Psychrobacter strain M9-54-1 had been previously isolated from the microbiota of holothurians and shown to degrade quorum sensing (QS) signal molecules C6 and C10-homoserine lactone (HSL), little was known about the gene responsible for this activity. In this study, we determined the whole genome sequence of this strain and found that the full 16S rRNA sequence shares 99.78–99.66% identity with Psychrobacter pulmonis CECT 5989T and P. faecalis ISO-46T. M9-54-1, evaluated using the agar well diffusion assay method, showed high quorum quenching (QQ) activity against a wide range of synthetic N-acylhomoserine lactone (AHLs) at 4, 15, and 28 °C. High-performance liquid chromatography-mass-spectrometry (HPLC-MS) confirmed that QQ activity was due to an AHL-acylase. The gene encoding for QQ activity in strain M9-54-1 was identified from its genome sequence whose gene product was named AhaP. Purified AhaP degraded substituted and unsubstituted AHLs from C4- to C14-HSL. Furthermore, heterologous expression of ahaP in the opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 reduced the expression of the QS-controlled gene lecA, encoding for a cytotoxic galactophilic lectin and swarming motility protein. Strain M9-54-1 also reduced brine shrimp mortality caused by Vibrio coralliilyticus VibC-Oc-193, showing potential as a biocontrol agent in aquaculture.
CT and MRI in Urinary Tract Infections: A Spectrum of Different Imaging Findings
Authors: El-Ghar Mohamed Abou , Farg Hashim , Sharaf Doaa Elsayed , El-Diasty Tarek
Published: January 2021

There are many acute and chronic infections affecting the urinary tract including bacterial, fungal and viral infections. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can present in many different patterns with variable degrees of severity varying from asymptomatic and uncomplicated forms to life threatening complicated infections. Cross-sectional imaging techniques—including both computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)—have become very important tools not only for evaluation of UTIs, but also for detection of associated complications. Selection of either CT or MRI in the UTI evaluation depends on several factors such as the presence of contraindication, experience, cost and availability. CT and MRI help in early detection and management of UTIs that reduce the prevalence and severity of complications. In this article we will present the radiologic findings at CT and MRI in different types of upper and lower UTIs including acute pyelonephritis, intrarenal and perinephric abscesses, pyonephrosis, chronic pyelonephritis, emphysematous UTIs, xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis, tuberculosis (TB), bilharziasis, fungal infection, corynebacterium infection, ureteritis, cystitis, prostatitis, prostatic abscess and urethritis.
Mass Transport in Osmotically Driven Membrane Processes
Authors: Xie Peng , Cath Tzahi Y. , Ladner David A.
Published: January 2021

Forward osmosis (FO) and pressure retarded osmosis (PRO) are the two operational modes for osmotically driven membrane processes (ODMPs). ODMPs have gained increasing popularity in the laboratory over the years; however, OMDPs have not been applied in very many cases at full scale because they are still emerging technologies that require further development. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling coupled with solute transport evaluation provides a tool to study hydrodynamics and concentration polarization in FO and PRO. In this study a series of models were developed to predict water flux. The simulation results of empty-channel (with no feed spacer) membrane cells were verified by comparison with experimental results, showing that CFD simulation with solute transport is a reliable tool. Ensuing 2D and 3D models were built to study the impact of feed spacers on the velocity and concentration distribution inside the flow channels, and investigate whether the presence of spacers would enable enhancement of water flux. The results showed that spacers could change the concentration and velocity profile and they could reduce or enhance water flux depending on the inlet flow velocity and distance between the membrane and spacer.
Modeling of Dynamic Recrystallization Behavior of As-Extruded AM50 Magnesium Alloy during Hot Compression by a Cellular Automaton Method
Authors: Shu Dayu , Wang Jing , Jiang Menghao , Chen Gang , Lu Liwei , Zhang Hongming
Published: January 2021

The dynamic recrystallization (DRX) behavior of as-extruded AM50 magnesium alloy was modelled and simulated by a cellular automaton (CA) method. Isothermal compression experiments were conducted, and the characteristic parameters in the CA model were obtained by the testing stress–strain flow curves in a wide temperature range of 250–450 °C and strain rate range of 0.001–10 s−1. The flow stress, DRX volume fraction and DRX grain size of the as-extruded AM50 magnesium alloy were predicted by CA simulation. The results showed that the DRX behavior of the studied magnesium alloy was susceptive with the temperature and strain rate; meanwhile, the prediction results were approximate to the experimental values, indicating that the developed CA model can make a confident estimation on the DRX behavior of the as-extruded AM50 magnesium alloy in high temperature conditions.
The Study on Forming Property at High Temperature and Processing Map of 2219 Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Jia Xiang-Dong , Wang Yi-Ning , Zhou Ying , Cao Miao-Yan
Published: January 2021

2219 aluminum alloy is a kind of high-strength Al-Cu-Mn alloy that can be strengthened by heat treatment. Its mechanical property parameters and forming properties are greatly affected by the deformation rate, temperature and strain. Taking 2219 aluminum alloy extruded bar as the research object, the Gleeble-3500 thermomechanical simulator was used to analyze the thermal compression deformation behavior of 2219 aluminum alloy under different temperatures and strain rates. The results show that the deformation behavior of 2219 aluminum alloy under high temperatures is greatly influenced by the deformation temperature and strain rate, and the flow stress is the result of high-temperature softening, strain hardening and deformation rate hardening. According to the experiment results, the Arrhenius constitutive model and the exponential constitutive model considering the influence of temperature and strain rate, respectively, were established, and the predicted results of the two constitutive models were in good agreement with the test results. On this basis, the processing map of 2219 aluminum alloy was established. Under the same strain rate condition with an increase of the deformation temperature, the power dissipation efficiency increases gradually, and the driving force of 2219 aluminum alloy to change its microstructure increases gradually. At the same deformation temperature, the lower the strain rate, the less possibility of plastic instability.
Engineered Microgels—Their Manufacturing and Biomedical Applications
Authors: Alzanbaki Hamzah , Moretti Manola , Hauser Charlotte A. E.
Published: January 2021

Microgels are hydrogel particles with diameters in the micrometer scale that can be fabricated in different shapes and sizes. Microgels are increasingly used for biomedical applications and for biofabrication due to their interesting features, such as injectability, modularity, porosity and tunability in respect to size, shape and mechanical properties. Fabrication methods of microgels are divided into two categories, following a top-down or bottom-up approach. Each approach has its own advantages and disadvantages and requires certain sets of materials and equipments. In this review, we discuss fabrication methods of both top-down and bottom-up approaches and point to their advantages as well as their limitations, with more focus on the bottom-up approaches. In addition, the use of microgels for a variety of biomedical applications will be discussed, including microgels for the delivery of therapeutic agents and microgels as cell carriers for the fabrication of 3D bioprinted cell-laden constructs. Microgels made from well-defined synthetic materials with a focus on rationally designed ultrashort peptides are also discussed, because they have been demonstrated to serve as an attractive alternative to much less defined naturally derived materials. Here, we will emphasize the potential and properties of ultrashort self-assembling peptides related to microgels.
Numerical Study of Nanoparticle Deposition in a Gaseous Microchannel under the Influence of Various Forces
Authors: Bao Fubing , Hao Hanbo , Yin Zhaoqin , Tu Chengxu
Published: January 2021

Nanoparticle deposition in microchannel devices inducing contaminant clogging is a serious barrier to the application of micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS). For micro-scale gas flow fields with a high Knudsen number (Kn) in the microchannel, gas rarefaction and velocity slip cannot be ignored. Furthermore, the mechanism of nanoparticle transport and deposition in the microchannel is extremely complex. In this study, the compressible gas model and a second-order slip boundary condition have been applied to the Burnett equations to solve the flow field issue in a microchannel. Drag, Brownian, and thermophoretic forces are concerned in the motion equations of particles. A series of numerical simulations for various particle sizes, flow rates, and temperature gradients have been performed. Some important features such as reasons, efficiencies, and locations of particle deposition have been explored. The results indicate that the particle deposition efficiency varies more or less under the actions of forces such as Brownian force, thermophoretic force, and drag force. Nevertheless, different forces lead to different particle motions and deposition processes. Brownian or thermophoretic force causes particles to move closer to the wall or further away from it. The drag force influence of slip boundary conditions and gas rarefaction changes the particles’ residential time in the channel. In order to find a way to decrease particle deposition on the microchannel surface, the deposition locations of different sizes of particles have been analyzed in detail under the action of thermophoretic force.
Type IA Topoisomerases as Targets for Infectious Disease Treatments
Authors: Seddek Ahmed , Annamalai Thirunavukkarasu , Tse-Dinh Yuk-Ching
Published: January 2021

Infectious diseases are one of the main causes of death all over the world, with antimicrobial resistance presenting a great challenge. New antibiotics need to be developed to provide therapeutic treatment options, requiring novel drug targets to be identified and pursued. DNA topoisomerases control the topology of DNA via DNA cleavage–rejoining coupled to DNA strand passage. The change in DNA topological features must be controlled in vital processes including DNA replication, transcription, and DNA repair. Type IIA topoisomerases are well established targets for antibiotics. In this review, type IA topoisomerases in bacteria are discussed as potential targets for new antibiotics. In certain bacterial pathogens, topoisomerase I is the only type IA topoisomerase present, which makes it a valuable antibiotic target. This review will summarize recent attempts that have been made to identify inhibitors of bacterial topoisomerase I as potential leads for antibiotics and use of these inhibitors as molecular probes in cellular studies. Crystal structures of inhibitor–enzyme complexes and more in-depth knowledge of their mechanisms of actions will help to establish the structure–activity relationship of potential drug leads and develop potent and selective therapeutics that can aid in combating the drug resistant bacterial infections that threaten public health.
Coastal Bacterial Community Response to Glacier Melting in the Western Antarctic Peninsula
Authors: Alcamán-Arias María Estrella , Fuentes-Alburquenque Sebastián , Vergara-Barros Pablo , Cifuentes-Anticevic Jerónimo , Verdugo Josefa , Polz Martin , Farías Laura , Pedrós-Alió Carlos , Díez Beatriz
Published: January 2021

Current warming in the Western Antarctic Peninsula (WAP) has multiple effects on the marine ecosystem, modifying the trophic web and the nutrient regime. In this study, the effect of decreased surface salinity on the marine microbial community as a consequence of freshening from nearby glaciers was investigated in Chile Bay, Greenwich Island, WAP. In the summer of 2016, samples were collected from glacier ice and transects along the bay for 16S rRNA gene sequencing, while in situ dilution experiments were conducted and analyzed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and metatranscriptomic analysis. The results reveal that certain common seawater genera, such as Polaribacter, Pseudoalteromonas and HTCC2207, responded positively to decreased salinity in both the bay transect and experiments. The relative abundance of these bacteria slightly decreased, but their functional activity was maintained and increased the over time in the dilution experiments. However, while ice bacteria, such as Flavobacterium and Polaromonas, tolerated the increased salinity after mixing with seawater, their gene expression decreased considerably. We suggest that these bacterial taxa could be defined as sentinels of freshening events in the Antarctic coastal system. Furthermore, these results suggest that a significant portion of the microbial community is resilient and can adapt to disturbances, such as freshening due to the warming effect of climate change in Antarctica.
The Effect of an Adsorbent Matrix on Recovery of Microorganisms from Hydrocarbon-Contaminated Groundwater
Authors: Taylor Nicole M. , Toth Courtney R. A. , Collins Victoria , Mussone Paolo , Gieg Lisa M.
Published: January 2021

The microbial degradation of recalcitrant hydrocarbons is an important process that can contribute to the remediation of oil and gas-contaminated environments. Due to the complex structure of subsurface terrestrial environments, it is important to identify the microbial communities that may be contributing to biodegradation processes, along with their abilities to metabolize different hydrocarbons in situ. In this study, a variety of adsorbent materials were assessed for their ability to trap both hydrocarbons and microorganisms in contaminated groundwater. Of the materials tested, a porous polymer resin (Tenax-TA) recovered the highest diversity of microbial taxa in preliminary experiments and was selected for additional (microcosm-based) testing. Oxic and anoxic experiments were prepared with groundwater collected from a contaminated aquifer to assess the ability of Tenax-TA to adsorb two environmental hydrocarbon contaminants of interest (toluene and benzene) while simultaneously providing a surface for microbial growth and hydrocarbon biodegradation. Microorganisms in oxic microcosms completely degraded both targets within 14 days of incubation, while anoxically-incubated microorganisms metabolized toluene but not benzene in less than 80 days. Community analysis of Tenax-TA-associated microorganisms revealed taxa highly enriched in sessile hydrocarbon-degrading treatments, including Saprospiraceae, Azoarcus, and Desulfoprunum, which may facilitate hydrocarbon degradation. This study showed that Tenax-TA can be used as a matrix to effectively trap both microorganisms and hydrocarbons in contaminated environmental systems for assessing and studying hydrocarbon-degrading microorganisms of interest.
Characterization of Lignin Compounds at the Molecular Level: Mass Spectrometry Analysis and Raw Data Processing
Authors: Zhang Ruochun , Qi Yulin , Ma Chao , Ge Jinfeng , Hu Qiaozhuan , Yue Fu-Jun , Li Si-Liang , Volmer Dietrich A.
Published: January 2021

Lignin is the second most abundant natural biopolymer, which is a potential alternative to conventional fossil fuels. It is also a promising material for the recovery of valuable chemicals such as aromatic compounds as well as an important biomarker for terrestrial organic matter. Lignin is currently produced in large quantities as a by-product of chemical pulping and cellulosic ethanol processes. Consequently, analytical methods are required to assess the content of valuable chemicals contained in these complex lignin wastes. This review is devoted to the application of mass spectrometry, including data analysis strategies, for the elemental and structural elucidation of lignin products. We describe and critically evaluate how these methods have contributed to progress and trends in the utilization of lignin in chemical synthesis, materials, energy, and geochemistry.
Microbiota-Mediated Immune Regulation in Atherosclerosis
Authors: Eshghjoo Sahar , Jayaraman Arul , Sun Yuxiang , Alaniz Robert C.
Published: January 2021

There is a high level of interest in identifying metabolites of endogenously produced or dietary compounds generated by the gastrointestinal (GI) tract microbiota, and determining the functions of these metabolites in health and disease. There is a wealth of compelling evidence that the microbiota is linked with many complex chronic inflammatory diseases, including atherosclerosis. Macrophages are key target immune cells in atherosclerosis. A hallmark of atherosclerosis is the accumulation of pro-inflammatory macrophages in coronary arteries that respond to pro-atherogenic stimuli and failure of digesting lipids that contribute to foam cell formation in atherosclerotic plaques. This review illustrates the role of tryptophan-derived microbiota metabolites as an aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) ligand that has immunomodulatory properties. Also, microbiota-dependent trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) metabolite production is associated with a deleterious effect that promotes atherosclerosis, and metabolite indoxyl sulfate has been shown to exacerbate atherosclerosis. Our objective in this review is to discuss the role of microbiota-derived metabolites in atherosclerosis, specifically the consequences of microbiota-induced effects of innate immunity in response to atherogenic stimuli, and how specific beneficial/detrimental metabolites impact the development of atherosclerosis by regulating chronic endotoxemic and lipotoxic inflammation.
Adapting the Accelerated Solvent Extraction Method for Resin and Rubber Determination in Guayule Using the BÜCHI Speed Extractor
Authors: Rozalén Juana , García-Martínez María de las Mercedes , Carrión María Engracia , Carmona Manuel , López-Córcoles Horacio , Cornish Katrina , Zalacain Amaya
Published: January 2021

Guayule (Parthenium argentatum Gray) is a promising alternative source to Hevea brasiliensis for the production of natural rubber, which can reach levels of 8–9% under industrialized farming conditions. The most common method for determining rubber concentration is by accelerated solvent extraction (ASE), a technique developed by the Dionex Corporation and almost exclusively performed with the Dionex ASE-200 or 350 systems. Herein, it is sought to apply and adapt the most common methods used in the literature for the Dionex system to another extraction platform, the BÜCHI Speed Extractor E-914. Results showed that using a sand sandwich method to confine the sample in the center and exploiting a larger cell volume (80 mL) for extraction prevents the occurrence of overpressure and problems with clogging. Under optimized conditions, the coefficient of variation was <15% for both resin quantification for samples containing 5.0–15.8% of resin and for rubber quantification for samples with 1.7–10.3% rubber content. The extraction time for resin (2 cycles of 5 min each) was smaller than for rubber (2 cycles of 20 min each). It would be interesting to carry out interlaboratory comparisons to standardize the method at an international level.