bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Growth Inhibition of Eugenol-Loaded Nano-Emulsions against Beneficial Bifidobacterium sp. along with Resistant Escherichia coli Using Flow Cytometry
Authors: Majeed Usman , Shafi Afshan , Shahbaz Muhammad , Khan Kashif ur Rehman , Iqbal Khalid Javed , Akram Kashif , Baboo Irfan , Munawar Shaukat Hussain , Munir Muhammad Mazhar , Sultan Rizwana , Majeed Hamid , Cacciotti Ilaria , Esatbeyoglu Tuba , Korma Sameh A.
Published: February 2023

The intestinal tract microbiota influences many aspects of the dietary components on colon health and during enteric infections, thus, playing a pivotal role in the colon health. Therefore, the eugenol (EU) nano-emulsion effective concentration reported in our previous study against cancer cells should be explored for safety against beneficial microbes. We evaluated the sensitivity of Bifidobacterium breve and B. adolescentis against EU-loaded nano-emulsions at 0, 300, 600 and 900 µm, which were effective against colon and liver cancer cells. Both B. breve and B. adolescentis showed comparable growth ranges to the control group at 300 and 600 µm, as evident from the plate count experimental results. However, at 900 µm, a slight growth variation was revealed with respect to the control group. The real-time inhibition determination through flow cytometry showed B. breve viable, sublethal cells (99.49 and 0.51%) and B. adolescentis (95.59 and 0.15%) at 900 µm, suggesting slight inhibition even at the highest tested concentration. Flow cytometry proved to be a suitable quantitative approach that has revealed separate live, dead, and susceptible cells upon treatment with EU nano-emulsion against Escherichia coli. Similarly, in the case of B. breve and B. adolescentis, the cells showed only live cells that qualitatively suggest EU nano-emulsion safety. To judge the viability of these sublethal populations of B. breve and B. adolescentis, Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy was carried out, revealing no peak shift for proteins, lipids, DNA and carbohydrates at 900 µm EU nano-emulsion compared to the control. On the other hand, EU-loaded nano-emulsions (900 µm)-treated E. coli showed a clear peak shift for a membrane protein, lipids, DNA and carbohydrates. This study provides insights to utilize plant phenols as safe medicines as well as dietary supplements.
In-House Extracted Soybean Protein Can Reduce the Enzyme Dosage in Biomass Saccharification
Authors: Simões Igor R. , Brondi Mariana G. , Farinas Cristiane S.
Published: February 2023

Bioconversion of the complex carbohydrates present in lignocellulosic biomass into simple sugars, in order to obtain biofuels and bio-based products, is still limited by the low performance of the enzymatic saccharification reaction and the high cost of cellulolytic enzymes. Low-cost additives such as soybean protein can reduce the unproductive adsorption of cellulases onto lignin, increasing conversion rates and reducing enzyme losses. Here, investigation was made of the effects of different soybean protein fractions, extracted in-house, on the enzymatic saccharification of hydrothermally pretreated sugarcane bagasse. The glucose released during biomass saccharification increased by up to 76% in the presence of the in-house extracted soybean protein, compared to the control (without additive). A remarkable finding was that the technique allowed the enzyme loading to be decreased four-fold. The results suggested that the alkali-extracted proteins presented high surface hydrophobicity, which enhanced their interaction with lignin and reduced the unproductive binding of cellulases. Among the main soybean protein fractions, glycinin had the best effect in improving saccharification, which could have been due to its higher hydrophobicity. Hence, in-house extracted soybean proteins seem to be interesting alternative additives capable of increasing the lignocellulosic biomass conversion efficiency in future biorefineries.
Effect of Heat Processing of Rubber Seed Kernel on In Vitro Rumen Biohydrogenation of Fatty Acids and Fermentation
Authors: Gunun Nirawan , Wanapat Metha , Kaewpila Chatchai , Khota Waroon , Polyorach Sineenart , Cherdthong Anusorn , Suwannasing Rattikan , Patarapreecha Pairote , Kesorn Piyawit , Intarapanich Piyawan , Viriyawattana Nuttabodee , Gunun Pongsatorn
Published: February 2023

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of rubber seed kernel heat processing on in vitro rumen biohydrogenation of fatty acids and fermentation. The experiment was conducted with a completely randomized design (CRD). The inclusion of RSK at 0% (CON) and 20% with different processing methods as follows: Raw rubber seed kernel (RAWR), roasted rubber seed kernel (ROR), microwave irradiated rubber seed kernel (MIR), and rubber seed kernel were heated in a hot air oven (RHO) in total mixed ration (TMR) diets. The hydrogen cyanide (HCN) was reduced using RSK heat methods. The heat processing of RSK had no effect on cumulative gas production at 96 h, the gas production from the insoluble fraction (b), or degradability (p > 0.05), whereas it reduced the gas production from the immediately soluble fraction (a) and constant rate of gas production for the insoluble fraction (c) (p < 0.01). The RSK processing methods did not influence ruminal pH, total volatile fatty acid (VFA), or VFA proportions (p > 0.05). RSK heat processing reduced ammonia-nitrogen (NH3-N) (p < 0.04) while increasing the bacterial population (p < 0.02). Heat treatment had no effect on linoleic acid (C18:2 cis-9,12 + tran-9,12) (p > 0.05). The RHO increases oleic acid (C18:1 cis-9 + tran-9) and linolenic acid (C18:3 cis-9,12,15) concentrations (p < 0.01). In conclusion, RHO reduced rumen biohydrogenation of unsaturated fatty acids (UFA), especially C18:3 and C18:1.
Depth Partitioning and Diel Movement of Two Large Carcharhinid Sharks in Extremely Shallow Waters
Authors: Barash Adi , Scheinin Aviad , Bigal Eyal , Zemah Shamir Ziv , Martinez Stephane , Tchernov Dan
Published: February 2023

Two species of carcharhinid sharks aggregate every winter at the warm water effluent of a coastal power plant on the Israeli Mediterranean coast. The two species (Carcharhinus obscurus and Carcharhinus plumbeus) cooccur in a highly confined area for several months every year and are highly associated with the area in and around the hot water effluent. Niche partitioning has recently been suggested as a mechanism that enables the coexistence of similar shark species by resource partitioning, spatial partitioning, and temporal partitioning. In this study, we used acoustic telemetry to study the individual diel movement and activity patterns within this enclosed area and examined the differences between the two species sharing it. Although this location only reaches a maximum depth of 7.5 m, we found both species perform a diel vertical movement, rising closer to the surface at night and moving deeper during daytime. Furthermore, the two shark species swam at different depths both day and night, with C. obscurus swimming in the upper column, about 2 m shallower than C. plumbeus. The very small scale of movement, which nearly equals the sharks’ body length, suggests movement patterns might be conserved at the species level. Moreover, spatiotemporal differences between the two species may reflect a mean of interspecific partitioning that occurs even in a highly confined and shallow habitat.
Second-Order Dynamic Equations with Noncanonical Operator: Oscillatory Behavior
Authors: Hassan Ahmed Mohamed , Ramos Higinio , Moaaz Osama
Published: February 2023

The present article aims to study the oscillatory properties of a class of second-order dynamic equations on time scales. We consider during this study the noncanonical case, which did not receive much attention compared to the canonical dynamic equations. The approach adopted depends on converting the noncanonical equation to a corresponding canonical equation. By using this transformation and based on several techniques, we create new, more effective, and sharp oscillation criteria. Finally, we explain the effectiveness and importance of the results by applying them to some special cases of the studied equation.
Delivery of B. subtilis into Animal Intestine Using Chitosan-Derived Bioresorbable Gel Carrier: Preliminary Results
Authors: Samokhin Alexander , Korel Anastasia , Blinova Elena , Pestov Alexander , Kalmykova Galina , Akulova Nadezhda , Betz Viktoria , Tkachenko Vadim , Litvinova Ekaterina
Published: February 2023

The oral delivery of bacteria in the human intestine is of great interest because of its potential to correct the gut microbiota and treat inflammatory bowel diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate sodium N-(2-sulfonatoethyl)chitosan gel cross-linked with glutaraldehyde as a delivery carrier for probiotic bacteria to the gut using in vitro and in vivo experiments. The bacterial test strain was B. subtilis 20. The cytotoxicity of the gel was evaluated via cell culture using flow cytometry and light microscopy. The gel as a delivery system was assessed by the dye release in medium with different pH levels in vitro, and by bacterial titer monitoring in mouse feces using the microbiology method in vivo. Results of an in vitro experiment showed that tested gel has no cytotoxicity. The use of gel as a carrier for bacterial delivery into the intestine was more effective than oral gavage of bacterial suspension. Therefore, gel delivery of bacteria decreased the titer level by up to two times. However, a gavage of bacterial suspension decreased the titer level by over 200 times. Tested gel has the potential to be a carrier for the safe delivery of bacteria to the intestine through the stomach, reducing the rate of the elimination of probiotic bacteria from the intestine.
Biomaterials Based on Chitosan and Polyvinyl Alcohol as a Drug Delivery System with Wound-Healing Effects
Authors: Gherman Simona Petronela , Biliuță Gabriela , Bele Adrian , Ipate Alina Mirela , Baron Raluca Ioana , Ochiuz Lăcrămioara , Șpac Adrian Florin , Zavastin Daniela Elena
Published: February 2023

The excellent biological properties of chitosan (CS) together with the increased oxygen permeability of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) were the prerequisites for the creation of a wound healing dressing that would also function as a system for L-arginine (L-arg) and caffeine (Caff) delivery. Using the freezing/thawing method, 12 hydrogels were obtained in PVA:CS polymer ratios of 90:10, 75:25, and 60:40, and all were loaded with L-arg, Caff, and the mixture of L-arg and Caff, respectively. Afterwards, an inorganic material (zeolite–Z) was added to the best polymeric ratio (75:25) and loaded with active substances. The interactions between the constituents of the hydrogels were analyzed by FTIR spectroscopy, the uniformity of the network was highlighted by the SEM technique, and the dynamic water vapor sorption capacity was evaluated. In the presence of the inorganic material, the release profile of the active substances is delayed, and in vitro permeation kinetics proves that the equilibrium state is not reached even after four hours. The synergy of the constituents in the polymer network recommends that they be used in medical applications, such as wound healing dressings.
VvPL11 Is a Key Member of the Pectin Lyase Gene Family Involved in Grape Softening
Authors: Li Wenxin , He Chang , Wei Hongli , Qian Jiakang , Xie Jiannan , Li Zhiqian , Zheng Xianbo , Tan Bin , Li Jidong , Cheng Jun , Wang Wei , Ye Xia , Feng Jiancan
Published: February 2023

Fruit ripening includes several metabolic changes that lead to sweeter and softer fruit. Pectin depolymerization is one of major factors that softens developing grape berries. Pectin lyases (PLs) play important roles in pectin degradation in the grape berry. However, little is known about the temporal and spatial expression of grapevine (Vitis spp.) pectin lyase genes (VvPLs) or their function during fruit ripening and softening. In this study, 18 individual VvPL genes were identified in the grape genome. All VvPL genes were sorted into group I and group II, except VvPL12 which demonstrated higher and similar expression trends in different tissues and organs. In grape berry, VvPL1, 5, 7, 11 and 16 were highly expressed, whereas VvPL18, 15, 2, 13, 10, 14, 17, 6 and 8 showed lower expression levels at different berry developmental stages. Expression of VvPL11 firstly increased and then decreased, and the highest expression was shown at 6 weeks after full bloom (WAFB) during berry development. Over-expression of the VvPL11 gene in tomato caused higher ethylene production and lower firmness compared to wild-type fruit. Moreover, decreased propectin and increased water-soluble pectin (WSP) levels were observed in VvPL11 transgenic tomato fruit. Consistent with this result, the expression levels of SlPG2, SlEXP, and SlPME1, all of which are genes involved in fruit softening, were up-regulated in VvPL11-OE tomato fruit, which supported the idea that VvPL11 plays an important role in fruit ripening and softening. This study provided a comprehensive analysis of the grapevine PL family and advanced our knowledge of the functions of VvPLs during fruit softening.
Zinc Inhibits the GABAAR/ATPase during Postnatal Rat Development: The Role of Cysteine Residue
Authors: Menzikov Sergey A. , Zaichenko Danila M. , Moskovtsev Aleksey A. , Morozov Sergey G. , Kubatiev Aslan A.
Published: February 2023

Zinc ions (Zn2+) are concentrated in various brain regions and can act as a neuromodulator, targeting a wide spectrum of postsynaptic receptors and enzymes. Zn2+ inhibits the GABAARs, and its potency is profoundly affected by the subunit composition and neuronal developmental stage. Although the extracellular amino acid residues of the receptor’s hetero-oligomeric structure are preferred for Zn2+ binding, there are intracellular sites that, in principle, could coordinate its potency. However, their role in modulating the receptor function during postembryonic development remains unclear. The GABAAR possesses an intracellular ATPase that enables the energy-dependent anion transport via a pore. Here, we propose a mechanistic and molecular basis for the inhibition of intracellular GABAAR/ATPase function by Zn2+ in neonatal and adult rats. The enzymes within the scope of GABAAR performance as Cl−ATPase and then as Cl−, HCO3−ATPase form during the first week of postnatal rat development. In addition, we have shown that the Cl−ATPase form belongs to the β1 subunit, whereas the β3 subunit preferably possesses the Cl−, HCO3−ATPase activity. We demonstrated that a Zn2+ with variable efficacy inhibits the GABAAR as well as the ATPase activities of immature or mature neurons. Using fluorescence recording in the cortical synaptoneurosomes (SNs), we showed a competitive association between Zn2+ and NEM in parallel changes both in the ATPase activity and the GABAAR-mediated Cl− and HCO3− fluxes. Finally, by site-directed mutagenesis, we identified in the M3 domain of β subunits the cysteine residue (C313) that is essential for the manifestation of Zn2+ potency.
Structural, Spectroscopic, and Thermal Decomposition Features of [Carbonatotetraamminecobalt(III)] Iodide—Insight into the Simultaneous Solid-Phase Quasi-Intramolecular Redox Reactions
Authors: Béres Kende Attila , Szilágyi Fanni , Homonnay Zoltán , Dürvanger Zsolt , Bereczki Laura , Trif László , Petruševski Vladimir M. , Farkas Attila , Bayat Niloofar , Kótai László
Published: February 2023

[κ2-O,O′-Carbonatotetraamminecobalt(III)] iodide, or [Co(NH3)4CO3]I, named in this paper as compound 1, was prepared and characterized comprehensively with spectroscopic (IR, Raman and UV) and single-crystal X-ray diffraction methods. Compound 1 was orthorhombic, and isomorphous with the analogous bromide. The four ammonia ligands and the carbonate anion were coordinated to the central cobalt cation in a distorted octahedral geometry. The carbonate ion formed a four-membered symmetric planar chelate ring. The complex cations were bound to each other by N-H···O hydrogen bonds and formed zigzag sheets via an extended 2D hydrogen bond network. The complex cations and iodide ions were arranged into ion pairs and each cation bound its iodide pair through three hydrogen bonds. The thermal decomposition started with the oxidation of the iodide ion by CoIII in the solid phase resulting in [Co(NH3)4CO3] and I2. This intermediate CoII-complex in situ decomposed into Co3O4 and C-N bond containing intermediates. In inert atmosphere, CO or C-N bond containing compounds, and also, due to the in situ decomposition of CoCO3 intermediate, Co3O4 was formed. The quasi-intramolecular solid-phase redox reaction of [Co(NH3)4CO3] might have resulted in the formation of C-N bond containing compounds with substoichiometric release of ammonia and CO2 from compound 1. The C-N bond containing intermediates reduced Co3O4 into CoO and Co, whereas in oxygen-containing atmosphere, the end-product was Co3O4, even at 200 °C, and the endothermic ligand loss reaction coincided with the consecutive exothermic oxidation processes.
Finite Element Analysis in the Balancing Phase for an Open Source Transfemoral Prosthesis with Magneto-Rheological Damper
Authors: Muñoz-Vásquez Sebastian , Mora-Pérez Zuly Alexandra , Ospina-Henao Paolo Andrés , Valencia-Niño César Hernando , Becker Marcelo , Díaz-Rodríguez Jorge Guillermo
Published: February 2023

The article presents a finite element simulation for the stress analysis of a transfemoral prosthesis with damping for a 100 kg person in the balancing phase. The maximum force is exerted at this stage when the person supports his or her whole body on a single foot. Materials used included stainless steel and polymer matrix composites, for which mechanical testing was performed. The study applied the SolidWorks simulation software tools, where material properties were specified for each part that composes the prosthesis and considered loads, the fastenings, and the meshing. The simulation resembles the manufacturing process for each component, including the sole built by the novel composite fused deposition modeling technique. As a result of the simulation, the stress, displacement fields, and safety factor are obtained. Analysis of the safety factor indicates that the components can withstand the loads imposed. Finally, a fatigue analysis indicated that the most critically loaded component lasts at least 294,107 cycles at maximum constant loading.
Introduction to the Development of Skin in Vertebrates
Authors: Alibardi Lorenzo
Published: February 2023

The integument of vertebrates is a complex and large organ positioned at the interface with the aquatic or terrestrial environment, and is derived from the embryonic ectoderm (epidermis) and mesoderm (dermis and hypodermis) [...]
Association of Strength Performance in Bench Press and Squat with Anthropometric Variables between Resistance-Trained Males and Females
Authors: Falch Hallvard Nygaard , Haugen Markus Estifanos , Larsen Stian , van den Tillaar Roland
Published: February 2023

Individual differences in the appropriate percentage of 1-RM for a given repetition range could be a result of variation in anthropometrics and/or sex. Strength endurance is the term used to describe the ability to perform a number of repetitions prior to failure (AMRAP) in sub-maximal lifts and is important in determining the appropriate load for the targeted repetition range. Earlier research investigating the association of AMRAP performance and anthropometric variables was often performed in a sample of pooled sexes or one sex only or by utilizing tests with low ecological validity. As such, this randomized cross-over study investigates the association of anthropometrics with different measures of strength (maximal and relative strength and AMRAP) in the squat and bench press for resistance-trained males (n = 19, 24.3 ± 3.5 years, 182 ± 7.3 cm, 87.1 ± 13.3 kg) and females (n = 17, 22.1 ± 3 years, 166.1 ± 3.7 cm, 65.5 ± 5.6 kg) and whether the association differs between the sexes. Participants were tested for 1-RM strength and AMRAP performance, with 60% of 1-RM in the squat and bench press. Correlational analysis revealed that for all participants, lean mass and body height were associated with 1-RM strength in the squat and bench press (0.66, p ≤ 0.01), while body height was inversely associated with AMRAP performance (r ≤ −0.36, p ≤ 0.02). Females had lower maximal and relative strength with a greater AMRAP performance. In the AMRAP squat, thigh length was inversely associated with performance in males, while fat percentage was inversely associated with performance in females. It was concluded that associations between strength performance and anthropometric variables differed for males and females in fat percentage, lean mass, and thigh length.
A Matheuristic Approach to the Integration of Three-Dimensional Bin Packing Problem and Vehicle Routing Problem with Simultaneous Delivery and Pickup
Authors: Moura Ana , Pinto Telmo , Alves Cláudio , Valério de Carvalho José
Published: February 2023

This work presents a hybrid approach to solve a distribution problem of a Portuguese company in the automotive industry. The objective is to determine the minimum cost for daily distribution operations, such as collecting and delivering goods to multiple suppliers. Additional constraints are explicitly considered, such as time windows and loading constraints due to the limited capacity of the fleet in terms of weight and volume. An exhaustive review of the state of the art was conducted, presenting different typology schemes from the literature for the pickup and delivery problems in the distribution field. Two mathematical models were integrated within a matheuristic approach. One model reflects the combination of the Vehicle Routing Problem with Simultaneous Delivery and Pickup with the Capacitated Vehicle Routing Problem with Time Windows. The second one aims to pack all the items to be delivered onto the pallets, reflecting a three-dimensional single bin size Bin Packing Problem. Both formulations proposed—a commodity-flow model and a formulation of the Three-Dimensional Packing Problem must be solved within the matheuristic. All the approaches were tested using real instances from data provided by the company. Additional computational experiments using benchmark instances were also performed.
Expected Waiting Times at an Intersection with a Green Extension Strategy for Freight Vehicles: An Analytical Analysis
Authors: Sasaninejad Sara , Van Malderen Joris , Walraevens Joris , Wittevrongel Sabine
Published: February 2023

The need for transporting commodities has led to more and more freight vehicles on urban roads. Specific operational constraints of such vehicles could induce non-homogeneities in the smooth movement of traffic, especially at intersections where acceleration/deceleration events occur frequently. This leads to unnecessary wasted time for all vehicles, even in low to moderate traffic conditions. Hence, the literature reports different proposals to enhance the continuity of traffic at intersections. Among them, the green extension strategy has attracted researchers’ attention, owing to its simplicity, flexibility and practicality. In this paper, we propose a new approximate probabilistic model for the expected waiting/wasted time of all vehicles at an intersection with green time extension in low to moderate traffic conditions. Accordingly, the optimal green extension interval that minimizes the total expected waiting time can then be determined in different conditions. The proposed analysis needs few pieces of information (as opposed to microsimulation models conventionally employed to analyze such systems) and is therefore, suitable for quickly deciding on the optimal strategy based on the current situation in a dynamic environment. We have validated our approximate analysis with simulations in the VISSIM simulation tool.
Clinical Characteristics and Disease Course of Fibrosing Interstitial Lung Disease Patients in a Real-World Setting
Authors: Kilpeläinen Maritta , Hirvonen Tuuli , Perkonoja Katariina , Hirsjärvi Samuli
Published: February 2023

Background and Objectives: This single-center retrospective study was conducted to describe clinical characteristics and the disease course of patients with interstitial lung diseases (ILD). Materials and Methods: The study included adult patients with fibrosing ILD (IPF, non-IPF fibrosing ILD (F-ILD), and non-IPF progressive pulmonary fibrosis (PPF)) treated between 2014 and 2017. Patients were followed annually from the first visit until the end of the study period in 2019. Data were collected from the Turku University Hospital data lake and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: 591 patients formed the patient cohort: 110 had IPF, 194 F-ILD, 142 PPF, and the remaining 145 patients were uncertain, F-ILD-U, whose disease progression nature could not be confirmed by FVC measurements. There were more males in each patient group and median age of the groups was similar, although there were younger patients in the PPF, F-ILD, and F-ILD-U groups. PPF patients had more UIP pattern than F-ILD patients. Exposure-related ILDs were clearly the most found ILD diagnoses for both PPF and F-ILD, followed by unclassifiable IIP. Baseline FVC % predicted reduction in every group was moderate. Half of the patients in each group had comorbidities, and the most common were cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, sleep apnea, and chronic lower respiratory diseases; F-ILD-U patients had malignant diseases as well. IPF patients had less medications than the other groups. Glucocorticoids were the most used medication in all patient groups. More PPF and F-ILD patients remained in the follow-up than IPF and F-ILD-U patients. Similarly, mortality of F-ILD-U was the highest, followed by IPF. Evolvement of lung function, oxygen use, and number of acute hospitalizations were similar for IPF and PPF patients whereas the corresponding results were always better for F-ILD patients. Conclusions: The disease course of IPF and PPF was similar, and PPF patient amount exceeded the amount of IPF patients.
Conformational Dynamics and Stability of Bilayers Formed by Mycolic Acids from the Mycobacterium tuberculosis Outer Membrane
Authors: Savintseva Liana A. , Steshin Ilya S. , Avdoshin Alexander A. , Panteleev Sergey V. , Rozhkov Alexey V. , Shirokova Ekaterina A. , Livshits Grigory D. , Vasyankin Alexander V. , Radchenko Eugene V. , Ignatov Stanislav K. , Palyulin Vladimir A.
Published: February 2023

Bilayers of mycolic acids (MAs) form the outer membrane of Mycobacterium tuberculosis that has high strength and extremely low permeability for external molecules (including antibiotics). For the first time, we were able to study them using the all-atom long-term molecular dynamic simulations (from 300 ns up to 1.2 μs) in order to investigate the conformational changes and most favorable structures of the mycobacterial membranes. The structure and properties of the membranes are crucially dependent on the initial packing of the α-mycolic acid (AMA) molecules, as well as on the presence of the secondary membrane components, keto- and methoxy mycolic acids (KMAs and MMAs). In the case of AMA-based membranes, the most labile conformation is W while other types of conformations (sU as well as sZ, eU, and eZ) are much more stable. In the multicomponent membranes, the presence of the KMA and MMA components (in the W conformation) additionally stabilizes both the W and eU conformations of AMA. The membrane in which AMA prevails in the eU conformation is much thicker and, at the same time, much denser. Such a packing of the MA molecules promotes the formation of a significantly stronger outer mycobacterial membrane that should be much more resistant to the threatening external factors.
Dual-Enzyme Cascade Composed of Chitosan Coated FeS2 Nanozyme and Glucose Oxidase for Sensitive Glucose Detection
Authors: Shen Bowen , Qing Molan , Zhu Liying , Wang Yuxian , Jiang Ling
Published: February 2023

Immobilizing enzymes with nanozymes to catalyze cascade reactions overcomes many of the shortcomings of biological enzymes in industrial manufacturing. In the study, glucose oxidases were covalently bound to FeS2 nanozymes as immobilization carriers while chitosan encapsulation increased the activity and stability of the immobilized enzymes. The immobilized enzymes exhibited a 10% greater increase in catalytic efficiency than the free enzymes while also being more stable and catalytically active in environments with an alkaline pH of 9.0 and a high temperature of 100 °C. Additionally, the FeS2 nanozyme-driven double-enzyme cascade reaction showed high glucose selectivity, even in the presence of lactose, dopamine, and uric acid, with a limit of detection (LOD) (S/N = 3) as low as 1.9 × 10−6 M. This research demonstrates that nanozymes may be employed as ideal carriers for biological enzymes and that the nanozymes can catalyze cascade reactions together with natural enzymes, offering new insights into interactions between natural and synthetic biosystems.
Ulvophyte Green Algae Caulerpa lentillifera: Metabolites Profile and Antioxidant, Anticancer, Anti-Obesity, and In Vitro Cytotoxicity Properties
Authors: Nurkolis Fahrul , Taslim Nurpudji Astuti , Qhabibi Faqrizal Ria , Kang Sojin , Moon Myunghan , Choi Jinwon , Choi Min , Park Moon Nyeo , Mayulu Nelly , Kim Bonglee
Published: February 2023

Marine algae have excellent bioresource properties with potential nutritional and bioactive therapeutic benefits, but studies regarding Caulerpa lentillifera are limited. This study aims to explore the metabolites profile and the antioxidant, anticancer, anti-obesity, and in vitro cytotoxicity properties of fractionated ethanolic extract of C. lentillifera using two maceration and soxhlet extraction methods. Dried simplicia of C. lentillifera was mashed and extracted in ethanol solvent, concentrated and evaporated, then sequentially partitioned with equal volumes of ethyl acetate and n-Hexane. Six samples were used in this study, consisting of ME (Maceration—Ethanol), MEA (Maceration—Ethyl Acetate), MH (Maceration—n-Hexane), SE (Soxhletation—Ethanol), SEA (Soxhletation—Ethyl Acetate), and SH (Soxhletation—n-Hexane). Non-targeted metabolomic profiling was determined using LC-HRMS, while antioxidant, anti-obesity, and anticancer cytotoxicity were determined using DPPH and ABTS, lipase inhibition, and MTT assay, respectively. This study demonstrates that C. lentillifera has several functional metabolites, antioxidant capacity (EC50 MH is very close to EC50 of Trolox), as well as anti-obesity properties (EC50 MH < EC50 orlistat, an inhibitor of lipid hydrolyzing enzymes), which are useful as precursors for new therapeutic approaches in improving obesity-related diseases. More interestingly, ME, MH, and SE are novel bioresource agents for anticancer drugs, especially for hepatoma, breast, colorectal, and leukemia cancers. Finally, C. lentillifera can be a nutraceutical with great therapeutic benefits.
Correction: Titov, E. On the Low-Lying Electronically Excited States of Azobenzene Dimers: Transition Density Matrix Analysis. Molecules 2021, 26, 4245
Authors: Titov Evgenii
Published: February 2023

During the course of a review of our publication, we found two errors in the Figure 3 Caption and Conclusions [...]
High Power Ytterbium-Doped Fiber Lasers Employing Longitudinal Vary Core Diameter Active Fibers
Authors: Zeng Lingfa , Wang Xiaolin , Ye Yun , Wang Li , Yang Baolai , Xi Xiaoming , Wang Peng , Pan Zhiyong , Zhang Hanwei , Shi Chen , Han Kai , Xu Xiaojun
Published: February 2023

Thanks to the advantage of balancing nonlinear effects and transverse mode instability, vary core diameter active fiber (VCAF) has been widely used in high power ytterbium-doped fiber lasers in recent years. Up to now, VCAF has developed from the basic form of the original tapered fiber to the spindle-shaped and saddle-shaped fiber with different characteristics and has been applied in conventional fiber lasers, oscillating–amplifying integrated fiber lasers, and quasi-continuous wave fiber lasers and successfully improved the performance of these lasers. In the present study, a 6110 W fiber laser amplifier is realized based on a tapered fiber. The maximum output power of a fiber laser amplifier based on spindle-shaped fibers is 6020 W with a beam quality of M2~1.86. In this paper, we first introduce the basic concept of VCAF and summarize its main fabrication methods and advantages in high-power fiber laser applications. Then, we will present the recent research results of high-power fiber laser employing VCAF in our group and clarify the outstanding advantages of VCAF compared with the constant core diameter active fiber (CCAF).
Angle-Based Parametrization with Evolutionary Optimization for OESCL-Band Y-Junction Splitters
Authors: Prosopio-Galarza Roy , García-Gonzales J. Leonidas , Jara Freddy , Armas-Alvarado Maria , Gonzalez Jorge , Rubio-Noriega Ruth E.
Published: February 2023

The design of passive photonic devices based on geometry optimization can lead to energy-efficient, small-footprint, and fabrication-ready geometries. In this work, we propose an angle-based parametrization method to optimize Y-junction splitters based on multimode interferometers. The selected figure of merit was the transmittance in the SCL and OESCL optical fiber communication bands. The performances of three optimization methods were compared: (i) particle swarm optimization (PSO), (ii) genetic algorithm (GA), and (iii) the covariance matrix adaptation-evolution strategy (CMA-ES). The results show that CMA-ES parametrization produces similar transmittance results (≤1.5% of difference) to PSO in the first 40 generations. The CMA-ES results are identical in the SCL (1460–1625 nm) and OESCL (1260–1625 nm) bands, whereas the GA and PSO executions are slightly different in terms of the rate and similarity of the figure of merit.
Special Issue on “Integrated Energy Systems towards Carbon Neutrality”
Authors: Liu Pei , Liu Ming , Wu Xiao
Published: February 2023

Energy systems have played an essential role in the history of human civilization [...]
Seismic Activity in the Celje Basin (Slovenia) in Roman Times—Archaeoseismological Evidence from Celeia
Authors: Kázmér Miklós , Jamšek Rupnik Petra , Gaidzik Krzysztof
Published: February 2023

Searching for unknown earthquakes in Slovenia in the first millennium, we performed archaeoseismological analysis of Roman settlements. The Mesto pod mestom museum in Celje exhibits a paved Roman road, which suffered severe deformation. Built on fine gravel and sand from the Savinja River, the road displays a bulge and trench, pop-up structures, and pavement slabs tilted up to 40°. The city wall was built over the deformed road in Late Roman times, supported by a foundation containing recycled material (spolia) from public buildings, including an emperor’s statue. We hypothesize that a severe earthquake hit the town before 350 AD, causing widespread destruction. Seismic-induced liquefaction caused differential subsidence, deforming the road. One of the nearby faults from the strike-slip Periadriatic fault system was the seismic source of this event.
Quality Aspects in the Compounding of Plastic Recyclate
Authors: Auer Maximilian , Schmidt Jannick , Diemert Jan , Gerhardt Gabriel , Renz Maximilian , Galler Viola , Woidasky Jörg
Published: February 2023

Compounding is the final processing step for quality adjustment and control before recycled thermoplastic polymer material can be introduced into production processes. Motivated by the need for higher recyclate shares, the research question is which quality problems recycling compounders are encountered in practice, where they occur, and which mitigation options might be reasonable. Therefore, an online survey with 20 recycling compounders based in Germany was conducted asking about typical processing steps and processed materials, test procedures for quality assurance, quality problems, and possibilities for reducing quality problems. Results show that compounders mainly name impurities and contaminations of the input material as challenging and the reason for quality problems. The study shows that the problems are not dependent on the material input type. Quality problems occur along the entire secondary value chain, with companies manufacturing components themselves being particularly affected. The composition determination of the input materials helps to minimize quality problems.
Greener Stability-Indicating HPLC Approach for the Determination of Curcumin in In-House Developed Nanoemulsion and Curcuma longa L. Extract
Authors: Haq Nazrul , Shakeel Faiyaz , Ghoneim Mohammed M. , Asdaq Syed Mohammed Basheeruddin , Alam Prawez , Alanazi Saleh A. , Alshehri Sultan
Published: February 2023

Despite the fact that several analytical methodologies have been reported for the determination of curcumin (CCM) in a wide range of sample matrices, the greener liquid chromatographic approaches to determine CCM are scarce in the literature. Therefore, this research is designed to develop and validate a greener stability-indicating “high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)” methodology to determine CCM in an in-house developed nanoemulsion, Curcuma longa L. extract, and commercial tablets. CCM was measured on a Nucleodur (150 mm × 4.6 mm) RP C18 column with 5 µm-sized particles. Ethanol and ethyl acetate (83:17 v/v) made up the greener eluent system, which was pumped at a flow speed of 1.0 mL/min. At a wavelength of 425 nm, CCM was detected. The greener HPLC methodology was linear in the 1–100 µg/mL range, with a determination coefficient of 0.9983. The greener HPLC methodology for CCM estimation was also rapid (Rt = 3.57 min), accurate (%recoveries = 98.90–101.85), precise (%CV = 0.90–1.11), and sensitive (LOD = 0.39 µg/mL and LOQ = 1.17 µg/mL). The AGREE approach predicted the AGREE score of 0.81 for the established HPLC technique, indicating an outstanding greenness profile. The utility of the greener HPLC methodology was demonstrated by determining CCM in the in-house developed nanoemulsion, Curcuma longa extract, and commercial tablets. The % amount of CCM in the in-house developed nanoemulsion, Curcuma longa extract, and commercial tablets was found to be 101.24%, 81.15%, and 78.41%, respectively. The greener HPLC methodology was able to detect its degradation product under various stress conditions, suggesting its stability-indication characteristics. These results suggested that CCM in developed nanoemulsion, plant extract samples, and commercial tablets may be routinely determined using the greener HPLC methodology.
Steady-State Risk Prediction Analysis of Power System Based on Power Digital Twinning
Authors: Li Qiang , Zhao Feng , Zhuang Li , Wang Qiulin , Wu Chenzhou
Published: February 2023

In essence, electric digital twinning uses artificial intelligence technology to model complex electric power systems, and is the development and supplement of electric power modeling technology. This paper intends to predict and analyze the steady-state risks of complex power systems based on the power digital twin. Firstly, power flow calculation and optimization are carried out for complex large power grid systems. Based on sparse matrix storage and node coding optimization, the power flow calculation speed is improved and the memory usage is reduced. The accuracy and timeliness of the continuous power flow calculation when obtaining the node power and voltage are improved by using the unit processing tangent prediction vector and the internal machine of the prediction vector to determine the prediction direction. Secondly, according to the optimization results of the power flow calculation, the multi-objective optimization problem of power system simulation is solved by using the advantages of neural network modeling, such as self-learning, self-adaptation, fault tolerance, and parallelism. Finally, the power flow calculation optimization and neural network analysis are applied to the integrated stability program of the United States Western Combined Power Grid (WSCC) power system’s nine-node model; this is in order to simulate the regional power grid for simulation analysis. Different risks in the power system under steady–state conditions are predicted and analyzed, the voltage drop in the transient voltage is reduced under multiple working conditions, and the relative power angle is improved, improving the overall stability of the power system.
Influence of Individual Skill Variety on Side-Hustle Intention: The Mediating Effect of Role Breadth Self-Efficacy and the Moderating Role of Side-Hustle Meaningfulness
Authors: Meng Ziyuan , Tang Ping , Wang Hui
Published: February 2023

As the gig economy grows, the side hustle has become a hot topic; however, little research has focused on the influence of side-hustle behavior from a microscopic perspective. This study explores how and when individual skill variety affects side-hustle intention from an individual level. Based on self-determination theory, this study constructs an influence model of individual skill variety on side-hustle intention with role breadth self-efficacy as the mediator and side-hustle meaningfulness as the moderator. Data collected from 402 individuals in China through a questionnaire survey were used for empirical analysis. The results indicate that (a) individual skill variety is positively associated with side-hustle intention; (b) role breadth self-efficacy plays a mediating role in the relationship between individual skill variety and side-hustle intention; (c) side-hustle meaningfulness moderates the relationship between role breadth self-efficacy and side-hustle intention, and moderates the mediating effect of role breadth self-efficacy. Finally, the theoretical implications and limitations are discussed.
Accelerated Simultaneous T2 and T2* Mapping of Multiple Sclerosis Lesions Using Compressed Sensing Reconstruction of Radial RARE-EPI MRI
Authors: Herrmann Carl J. J. , Starke Ludger , Millward Jason M. , Kuchling Joseph , Paul Friedemann , Niendorf Thoralf
Published: February 2023

(1) Background: Radial RARE-EPI MRI facilitates simultaneous T2 and T2* mapping (2in1-RARE-EPI). With modest undersampling (R = 2), the speed gain of 2in1-RARE-EPI relative to Multi-Spin-Echo and Multi-Gradient-Recalled-Echo references is limited. Further reduction in scan time is crucial for clinical studies investigating T2 and T2* as imaging biomarkers. We demonstrate the feasibility of further acceleration, utilizing compressed sensing (CS) reconstruction of highly undersampled 2in1-RARE-EPI. (2) Methods: Two-fold radially-undersampled 2in1-RARE-EPI data from phantoms, healthy volunteers (n = 3), and multiple sclerosis patients (n = 4) were used as references, and undersampled (Rextra = 1–12, effective undersampling Reff = 2–24). For each echo time, images were reconstructed using CS-reconstruction. For T2 (RARE module) and T2* mapping (EPI module), a linear least-square fit was applied to the images. T2 and T2* from CS-reconstruction of undersampled data were benchmarked against values from CS-reconstruction of the reference data. (3) Results: We demonstrate accelerated simultaneous T2 and T2* mapping using undersampled 2in1-RARE-EPI with CS-reconstruction is feasible. For Rextra = 6 (TA = 01:39 min), the overall MAPE was ≤8% (T2*) and ≤4% (T2); for Rextra = 12 (TA = 01:06 min), the overall MAPE was <13% (T2*) and <5% (T2). (4) Conclusion: Substantial reductions in scan time are achievable for simultaneous T2 and T2* mapping of the brain using highly undersampled 2in1-RARE-EPI with CS-reconstruction.
Modeling Quantum Particles Falling into a Black Hole: The Deep Interior Limit
Authors: Perez Alejandro , Ribisi Salvatore , Viollet Sami
Published: February 2023

In this paper, we construct a solvable toy model of the quantum dynamics of the interior of a spherical black hole with falling spherical scalar field excitations. We first argue about how some aspects of the quantum gravity dynamics of realistic black holes emitting Hawking radiation can be modeled using Kantowski–Sachs solutions with a massless scalar field when one focuses on the deep interior region r≪M (including the singularity). Further, we show that in the r≪M regime, and in suitable variables, the KS model becomes exactly solvable at both the classical and quantum levels. The quantum dynamics inspired by loop quantum gravity is revisited. We propose a natural polymer quantization where the area a of the orbits of the rotation group is quantized. The polymer (or loop) dynamics is closely related to the Schroedinger dynamics away from the singularity with a form of continuum limit naturally emerging from the polymer treatment. The Dirac observable associated with the mass is quantized and shown to have an infinite degeneracy associated with the so-called ϵ-sectors. Suitable continuum superpositions of these are well-defined distributions in the fundamental Hilbert space and satisfy the continuum Schroedinger dynamics.
Comparison of Absorbable and Nonabsorbable Sutures for Intradermal Skin Closure in Dogs
Authors: Balomenos Dimitrios B. , Gοuletsοu Pagona G. , Galatos Apostolos D.
Published: February 2023

The study aimed to compare incisional wound healing with intradermal suture patterns performed with (a) absorbable suture with burying of the knots and (b) nonabsorbable suture anchored with clips. Ten dogs were included in the study. Surgically created skin incisions were apposed with continuous intradermal suture pattern with 4/0 poliglecaprone 25 with burying of the knots and continuous intradermal pattern with 4/0 polypropylene with clips. Cosmetic, clinical, ultrasonographic and histological scores were evaluated. The intradermal pattern with clips was easier to perform and required significantly less time to complete than the intradermal suture with burying of the knots. Cosmetic, clinical, ultrasonographic and histological evaluation scores did not differ significantly between the techniques. Irrespective of the technique used, the cosmetic, ultrasonographic, clinical and histological appearances of the incisions improved over time. In conclusion, polypropylene was found to be a safe and effective suture material for use with intradermal suture pattern with clips in dogs and to have an easy and quick application. However, in our sample, its earlier removal from wounds than poliglecaprone 25 was not found to be associated with a supposedly beneficial effect on wound healing and scar appearance. Both suture materials can be useful in intradermal suture techniques in dogs.
Avaliação do desempenho motor bimanual em hemiparéticos
Authors: Schadek Betini Moretti Amanda , Campos Cogo Bianca Aparecida , Da Conceição de Menezes Bruno , Santos Oliveira Matheus , Zamberlan Ferreira Natália
Published: February 2023

Introdução. O Acidente Vascular Cerebral (AVC) é decorrente da insuficiência de irrigação sanguínea nos tecidos cerebrais, podendo ser dividido em duas categorias: isquêmico, onde se tem obstrução, e hemorrágico, pela ruptura dos vasos sanguíneos, o que causa uma lesão a esses tecidos. Trata-se de um grande problema de saúde pública global, onde grande parte dos indivíduos sobreviventes permanecem com sequelas funcionais, tornando-se um agravo comum na atualidade em questões de mortalidade, sequelas, custos médicos e sociais. Objetivo. Avaliar o desempenho motor bimanual em hemiparéticos. Método. O número avaliado foi de 20 indivíduos por amostra de conveniência, formando dois grupos: Grupo controle (GC) e Grupo pós-AVC (GAVC). Foram incluídos no estudo indivíduos de ambos os sexos, com idade entre 42 e 83 anos, alfabetizados e não alfabetizados, sendo este o GC, já para o GAVC inclui-se estes fatores a indivíduos hemiparéticos com diagnóstico clínico de AVC unilateral em fase crônica. Resultados. Observou-se há diferença significante quanto ao desempenho motor bimanual ao que se refere a habilidades bimanuais (questionário Abilhand) e destreza (Teste de Argola de 6 minutos e Teste de Caixa e Blocos). Entretanto, quanto à força muscular e função motora, não houve diferença significante entre os grupos. Conclusão.  Há déficit de desempenho motor bimanual quanto destreza e habilidades bimanuais. Compreender esta alteração proporciona uma abordagem integral ao paciente hemiparético.