bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictive Suspension Algorithm for Land Vehicles over Deterministic Topography
Authors: Bustos Alejandro , Meneses Jesus , Rubio Higinio , Soriano-Heras Enrique
Published: April 2022

A good suspension system is mandatory for ensuring stability, comfort and safety in land vehicles; therefore, advanced semi and fully active suspension systems have been developed along with their associated management strategies to overcome the limitations of passive suspensions. This paper presents a suspension algorithm for land vehicles traveling through a deterministic topography. The kinematics of a half-vehicle model and the algorithm are implemented in Simulink. The algorithm’s inputs are the measurements provided by a position scanner located on the front wheel of the vehicle. Based on this input, the algorithm reconstructs the topography in real-time and sends the corresponding command to an actuator located on the rear wheel to compensate for the irregularities of the terrain. The actuation is governed by the parameter “D”, which represents the distance over which the algorithm averages the height of the terrain. Two ground profiles were tested and sensitivity analysis of the parameter “D” was performed. Results show that larger values of “D” usually yield less vibration on the actuated mass, but this value also depends on the irregularities of the terrain.
Minimizing Dependency Ratio in Spain through Demographic Variables
Authors: Micó Joan C. , Soler David , Sanz Maria T. , Caselles Antonio , Amigó Salvador
Published: April 2022

The population pyramids in Europe have changed in the last decades, particularly in Spain, where population aging is observed and implies an increase in the dependency ratio. The present study aims to modify a mathematical model of population defined by age and sex based on the von Foerster-Mckendrick equations in order to have birth and migration rates as control variables. To achieve this objective, the necessary mathematical changes are made in the model, and the new mathematical model is verified and validated for the case of Spain, in the period 2008–2019, being considered successful both in its deterministic and stochastic formulation. Finally, through the method of strategies and scenarios and a genetic algorithm, a modification of the population pyramid is obtained in the direction of a decrease in the dependency ratio, increasing the birth rate and immigration and decreasing the emigration rate. These changes lead to a modification of the population pyramid in the year 2040; in particular, an increase of the female population in the age range from 20 to 39 years old.
Utilizing Previously Grafted Sinus as Intraoral Donor Site for Successful Augmentation in Peri-Implant Osseous Defect: A Case Report
Authors: Park Won-Bae , Park Jun-Sang , Han Ji-Young , Kang Philip
Published: April 2022

The purpose of this case report is to introduce a novel guided bone regeneration (GBR) technique that utilized bone harvested from previously grafted maxillary sinus with deproteinized bovine bone mineral (DBBM) 16 years ago. The patient is a 63-year-old male with hopeless maxillary right molars due to severe bone loss. Two months after the extraction, two bone blocks were harvested with a trephine drill from the lateral wall. One was used for histologic analysis and the other was crushed into particulate forms, which was used for a GBR procedure around an implant at the time of implant placement. The grafted site was then covered with a resorbable collagen membrane. The histological specimen showed newly-formed bone containing residual DBBM particles. The DBBM in the harvested bone was mostly resorbed; DBBM particles comprised only 3.6% of the total bone volume. The final prosthesis was delivered six months post-operatively. No change in crestal bone around the implant was observed throughout the 2 year follow-up period. Within the limitation of the present case report, previously grafted sinus can be a good donor site for further harvesting for a successful GBR procedure.
Life after Burn, Part I: Health-Related Quality of Life, Employment and Life Satisfaction
Authors: Hutter Maria Fernanda , Smolle Christian , Kamolz Lars-Peter
Published: April 2022

Background and Objectives: As advances in medicine are proceeding, so are treatment goals shifting from sheer mortality rates to improving HRQoL and social reintegration after burn injury. Following this trend, we aimed to assess HRQoL, employment and life satisfaction after burn injury to gain insight on confounding factors. Materials and Methods: This single-center follow-up study was conducted using the SF-36 V1.0 in German and further questions evaluating employment and life satisfaction. It reached 128 adult in-patients (recall 33.0%) with former burn injuries, treated between 2012 and 2019 at the Division of Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery at the University Hospital of Graz. The questionnaire outcomes were set into relation with clinical data obtained from the medical records. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS 27.0 for Windows. Results: Of the 128 participants, 72.7% were male and 27.3% female. The mean age at the time of injury was 40.0 ± 15.7 years and mean %TBSA among the study population was 9.2 ± 11.0%. The male patients had sustained more extensive injuries (p = 0.005). However, the female patients scored significantly (p < 0.05) and consistently lower in all the domains of the SF-36, except for “bodily pain” (p = 0.061). Moreover, the female patients scored lower in all the domains of life satisfaction, although significant differences were only found in the domains of fulfillment (p = 0.050) and mental wellbeing (p = 0.015). Furthermore, employment status differed significantly between the male and female patients before as well as after the burn injury. Proportionally less women were employed at both time points. Overall, unemployment had declined. Conclusions: Life satisfaction after burn injury in this study cohort seems to be good. Return to work has shown a promising trend. Strikingly, HRQoL and life satisfaction were lower in women after burn injury. Further research on the reasons for this gender discrepancy might improve HRQoL and life satisfaction after burns.
Clinical and Surgical Challenges in Kidney Transplantation: Toward a Personalized Approach?
Authors: Favi Evaldo , Cacciola Roberto
Published: April 2022

The continuously evolving practice of solid organ transplantation (SOT) in general and kidney transplantation (KT) in particular embodies the complexity of a composite, multi-step healthcare service [...]
[(AlxTi1−x)-(FeCoNi)12](AlxTi1−x)0.5Cr2.5 High-Entropy Alloy Coating by Laser Cladding
Authors: Bo Shenghong , Guo Yaxiong , Liu Qibin
Published: April 2022

To prolong the service life of the stirrer impeller made by SUS 904L austenitic super-stainless steel, a series of [(AlxTi1−x)-(FeCoNi)12](AlxTi1−x)0.5Cr2.5 high-entropy alloy (HEA) compositions were designed based on the cluster-plus-glue-atom model. The HEAs’ coatings were successfully fabricated by laser cladding technology. The microstructure, microhardness, wear resistance and corrosion resistance were measured by a scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope, microhardness tester, wear machine and electrochemical workstation, respectively. The experimental results indicate that the phase structures of the [(AlxTi1−x)-(FeCoNi)12](AlxTi1−x)0.5Cr2.5 (x = 0, 0.5, 1) HEA coatings mainly consist of a single face-centered-cubic solid solution and the coatings produce BCC phase with the increase of Ti content. When x = 0, the coating has the highest hardness (402.3 HV0.2) which is 1.92 times that of 904L austenitic super-stainless steel (209.0 HV0.2), the lowest wear volume (0.866 mm3) and the best corrosion resistance. The addition of Ti refined the microstructure of the coatings and promoted the formation of BCC phase, which improved the hardness and wear resistance of the coatings. Considering the wide sources of Ti, Fe and Co elements and the convenience of laser cladding, the coating can provide a cheap protective layer for 904L stainless steel.
Numerical Modeling of Metallurgical Processes: Continuous Casting and Electroslag Remelting
Authors: Liu Zhongqiu
Published: April 2022

The multiscale transport phenomena (multiscale turbulence, multiphase flow, multiscale solidification, non-metallic inclusion, etc [...]
High Strain Rate and Stress-State-Dependent Martensite Transformation in AISI 304 at Low Temperatures
Authors: Fricke Lara Vivian , Gerstein Gregory , Kotzbauer Andreas , Breidenstein Bernd , Barton Sebastian , Maier Hans Jürgen
Published: April 2022

Deformation-induced martensitic transformation as the basis of a hardening process is dependent, among others, on the stress state. In applications such as cryogenic cutting, where a hardened martensitic subsurface can be produced in metastable austenitic steels, different stress states exist. Furthermore, cutting typically occurs at high strain rates greater than 103s−1. In order to gain a deeper insight into the behavior of a metastable austenitic steel (AISI 304) upon cryogenic cutting, the influence of high strain rates under different loading conditions was analyzed. It was observed that higher strain rates lead to a decrease in the α′-martensite content if exposed to tensile loads due to generated adiabatic heat. Furthermore, a lath-like α′-martensite was induced. Under shear stress, no suppression of α′-martensite formation by higher strain rates was found. A lath α′-martensite was formed, too. In the specimens that were subjected exclusively to compressive loading, almost no α′-martensite was present. The martensitic surface generated by cutting experiments showed deformation lines in which α′-martensite was formed in a wave-like shape. As for the shear specimens, more α′-martensite was formed with increasing strain rate, i.e., force. Additionally, magnetic etching proved to be an effective method to verify the transformation of ferromagnetic α′-martensite.
The Fuel of Our Future: Hydrogen or Methane?
Authors: Arutyunov Vladimir , Savchenko Valery , Sedov Igor , Arutyunov Artem , Nikitin Aleksey
Published: April 2022

Growing concern about climate processes has caused an interest in low-carbon fuels, such as methane and hydrogen. Although hydrogen seems to be beyond comparison in this regard, the need for high energy consumption for its production—mainly due to the same fossil hydrocarbons, low specific volume energy, and problems with its storage and transportation—make the production and consumption in the “hydrogen energy” chain extremely expensive, and even environmentally unattractive. Estimates show that it is significantly inferior to methane-based energy not only in terms of costs and efficiency, but also in terms of global CO2 emissions. The vast resources of natural methane, primarily gas hydrates, are able to provide humanity with energy and hydrocarbons for hundreds of years. Meanwhile, promising modern technologies for the conversion of methane into basic chemicals—including new autothermal technologies for its oxidative conversion into syngas and its direct conversion into chemicals—allow the consideration of methane not only as a fuel, but also as the basis of future organic chemistry. Methane and other hydrocarbons, synthesized using thermonuclear energy from CO2 and water—which are abundant on the Earth—can remain the most convenient mobile, easily stored and transported fuels and universal chemical raw materials, even after the inevitable transition to thermonuclear energy in the distant future. The inclusion of CO2 through the synthesis of methane into the global energy cycle will allow real global carbon neutrality to be achieved.
Structural Analyses of CrtJ and Its B12-Binding Co-Regulators SAerR and LAerR from the Purple Photosynthetic Bacterium Rhodobacter capsulatus
Authors: Dragnea Vladimira , Gonzalez-Gutierrez Giovanni , Bauer Carl E.
Published: April 2022

Among purple photosynthetic bacteria, the transcription factor CrtJ is a major regulator of photosystem gene expression. Depending on growing conditions, CrtJ can function as an aerobic repressor or an anaerobic activator of photosystem genes. Recently, CrtJ’s activity was shown to be modulated by two size variants of a B12 binding co-regulator called SAerR and LAerR in Rhodobacter capsulatus. The short form, SAerR, promotes CrtJ repression, while the longer variant, LAerR, converts CrtJ into an activator. In this study, we solved the crystal structure of R. capsulatus SAerR at a 2.25 Å resolution. Hydroxycobalamin bound to SAerR is sandwiched between a 4-helix bundle cap, and a Rossman fold. This structure is similar to a AerR-like domain present in CarH from Thermus termophilus, which is a combined photoreceptor/transcription regulator. We also utilized AlphaFold software to predict structures for the LAerR, CrtJ, SAerR-CrtJ and LAerR-CrtJ co-complexes. These structures provide insights into the role of B12 and an LAerR N-terminal extension in regulating the activity of CrtJ.
Comparative Genomics of Xylella fastidiosa Explores Candidate Host-Specificity Determinants and Expands the Known Repertoire of Mobile Genetic Elements and Immunity Systems
Authors: Uceda-Campos Guillermo , Feitosa-Junior Oseias R. , Santiago Caio R. N. , Pierry Paulo M. , Zaini Paulo A. , de Santana Wesley O. , Martins-Junior Joaquim , Barbosa Deibs , Digiampietri Luciano A. , Setubal João C. , da Silva Aline M.
Published: April 2022

Xylella fastidiosa causes diseases in many plant species. Originally confined to the Americas, infecting mainly grapevine, citrus, and coffee, X. fastidiosa has spread to several plant species in Europe causing devastating diseases. Many pathogenicity and virulence factors have been identified, which enable the various X. fastidiosa strains to successfully colonize the xylem tissue and cause disease in specific plant hosts, but the mechanisms by which this happens have not been fully elucidated. Here we present thorough comparative analyses of 94 whole-genome sequences of X. fastidiosa strains from diverse plant hosts and geographic regions. Core-genome phylogeny revealed clades with members sharing mostly a geographic region rather than a host plant of origin. Phylogenetic trees for 1605 orthologous CDSs were explored for potential candidates related to host specificity using a score of mapping metrics. However, no candidate host-specificity determinants were strongly supported using this approach. We also show that X. fastidiosa accessory genome is represented by an abundant and heterogeneous mobilome, including a diversity of prophage regions. Our findings provide a better understanding of the diversity of phylogenetically close genomes and expand the knowledge of X. fastidiosa mobile genetic elements and immunity systems.
Reactivity of a Recombinant Esterase from Thermus thermophilus HB27 in Aqueous and Organic Media
Authors: González-González Roberto , Fuciños Pablo , Beneventi Elisa , López-López Olalla , Pampín Begoña , Rodríguez Ramón , González-Siso María Isabel , Cruces Jacobo , Rúa María Luisa
Published: April 2022

The thermoalkalophilic membrane-associated esterase E34Tt from Thermus thermophilus HB27 was cloned and expressed in Kluyveromyces lactis (KLEST-3S esterase). The recombinant enzyme was tested as a biocatalyst in aqueous and organic media. It displayed a high thermal stability and was active in the presence of 10% (v/v) organic solvents and 1% (w/v) detergents. KLEST-3S hydrolysed triglycerides of various acyl chains, which is a rare characteristic among carboxylic ester hydrolases from extreme thermophiles, with maximum activity on tributyrin. It also displayed interfacial activation towards triacetin. KLEST-3S was also tested as a biocatalyst in organic media. The esterase provided high yields for the acetylation of alcohols. In addition, KLEST-3S catalyzed the stereoselective hydrolysis of (R,S)-ibuprofen methyl ester (87% ee). Our results indicate that KLEST-3S may be a robust and efficient biocatalyst for application in industrial bioconversions.
Differentiation of Bacillus cereus and Bacillus thuringiensis Using Genome-Guided MALDI-TOF MS Based on Variations in Ribosomal Proteins
Authors: Chen Minling , Wei Xianhu , Zhang Junhui , Zhou Huan , Chen Nuo , Wang Juan , Feng Ying , Yu Shubo , Zhang Jumei , Wu Shi , Ye Qinghua , Pang Rui , Ding Yu , Wu Qingping
Published: April 2022

Bacillus cereus and B. thuringiensis are closely related species that are relevant to foodborne diseases and biopesticides, respectively. Unambiguous differentiation of these two species is crucial for bacterial taxonomy. As genome analysis offers an objective but time-consuming classification of B. cereus and B. thuringiensis, in the present study, matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) was used to accelerate this process. By combining in silico genome analysis and MALDI-TOF MS measurements, four species-specific peaks of B. cereus and B. thuringiensis were screened and identified. The species-specific peaks of B. cereus were m/z 3211, 6427, 9188, and 9214, and the species-specific peaks of B. thuringiensis were m/z 3218, 6441, 9160, and 9229. All the above peaks represent ribosomal proteins, which are conserved and consistent with the phylogenetic relationship between B. cereus and B. thuringiensis. The specificity of the peaks was robustly verified using common foodborne pathogens. Thus, we concluded that genome-guided MALDI-TOF MS allows high-throughput differentiation of B. cereus and B. thuringiensis and provides a framework for differentiating other closely related species.
Genomic Analysis of Endophytic Bacillus-Related Strains Isolated from the Medicinal Plant Origanum vulgare L. Revealed the Presence of Metabolic Pathways Involved in the Biosynthesis of Bioactive Compounds
Authors: Semenzato Giulia , Alonso-Vásquez Tania , Del Duca Sara , Vassallo Alberto , Riccardi Christopher , Zaccaroni Marco , Mucci Nadia , Padula Anna , Emiliani Giovanni , Palumbo Piccionello Antonio , Puglia Anna Maria , Fani Renato
Published: April 2022

Multidrug-resistant pathogens represent a serious threat to human health. The inefficacy of traditional antibiotic drugs could be surmounted through the exploitation of natural bioactive compounds of which medicinal plants are a great reservoir. The finding that bacteria living inside plant tissues, (i.e., the endophytic bacterial microbiome) can influence the synthesis of the aforementioned compounds leads to the necessity of unraveling the mechanisms involved in the determination of this symbiotic relationship. Here, we report the genome sequence of four endophytic bacterial strains isolated from the medicinal plant Origanum vulgare L. and able to antagonize the growth of opportunistic pathogens of cystic fibrosis patients. The in silico analysis revealed the presence of gene clusters involved in the production of antimicrobial compounds, such as paeninodin, paenilarvins, polymyxin, and paenicidin A. Endophytes’ adaptation to the plant microenvironment was evaluated through the analysis of the presence of antibiotic resistance genes in the four genomes. The diesel fuel degrading potential was also tested. Strains grew in minimum media supplemented with diesel fuel, but no n-alkanes degradation genes were found in their genomes, suggesting that diesel fuel degradation might occur through other steps involving enzymes catalyzing the oxidation of aromatic compounds.
Unraveling the Antimicrobial Effectiveness of Coridothymus capitatus Hydrolate against Listeria monocytogenes in Environmental Conditions Encountered in Foods: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Buccioni Francesco , Purgatorio Chiara , Maggio Francesca , Garzoli Stefania , Rossi Chiara , Valbonetti Luca , Paparella Antonello , Serio Annalisa
Published: April 2022

The increased resistance of bacteria to antimicrobials, as well as the growing interest in innovative and sustainable alternatives to traditional food additives, are driving research towards the use of natural food preservatives. Among these, hydrolates (HYs) have gained attention as “mild” alternatives to conventional antimicrobial compounds. In this study, the response of L. monocytogenes ATCC 7644 exposed to increasing concentrations of Coridothymus capitatus HY (CHY) for 1 h at 37 °C was evaluated by means of Phenotype Microarray, modelling the kinetic data obtained by inoculating control and treated cells into GEN III microplates, after CHY removal. The results revealed differences concerning the growth dynamics in environmental conditions commonly encountered in food processing environments (different carbon sources, pH 6.0, pH 5.0, 1–8% NaCl). More specifically, for treated cells, the lag phase was extended, the growth rate was slowed down and, in most cases, the maximum concentration was diminished, suggesting the persistence of stress even after CHY removal. Confocal Laser Scanner Microscopy evidenced a diffuse aggregation and suffering of the treated cells, as a response to the stress encountered. In conclusion, the treatment with HY caused a stressing effect that persisted after its removal. The results suggest the potential of CHY application to control L. monocytogenes in food environments.
Mineralogical Characteristics of Pegmatite Tailings and Beneficiation Assessment of Pollucite in Recovering Cesium
Authors: Chen Yong , Wen Jiankang , Song Yongsheng , Li Wenjuan , Liu Shuang , Liu Ying
Published: April 2022

The technological mineralogical characteristics of cesium-containing minerals in tailings were examined by means of chemical analysis, the energy spectrum analysis method, and MLA (mineral liberation analyzer) to determine the element content, phase analysis, associated mineral components, degree of liberation, particle size, etc. The results showed that the samples mainly contained spodumene, quartz, feldspar, mica, and other minerals. Pollucite was the main cesium-containing mineral in the sample, which had a cesium oxide content that was as high as 34.58%. The mineral content of pollucite in the sample was relatively low—only 1.23%. The pollucite monomer content and the amount of rich intergrowth was 85.25%, and the metal distribution of cesium in the +0.074 mm sample was as high as 87.06%. Spodumene was the main mineral associated with pollucite. The beneficiation evaluation of this tailing sample was conducted using a combined process that integrated desliming, magnetic separation, and froth flotation, and a pollucite concentrate containing 4.45% Cs2O was obtained with a 63.71 recovery rate. This indicates that little pollucite was removed by means of desliming and magnetic separation before froth flotation recovery, but during the froth flotation stage in spodumene and feldspar, a large pollucite loss was observed. Therefore, to improve pollucite recovery, a pollucite-specific adsorption reagent should be synthesized.
Na-Alternative to Tinsleyite Obtained under Hydrothermal Conditions: Crystal Structure and Comparative Crystal Chemistry
Authors: Yakubovich Olga , Kiriukhina Galina , Verchenko Polina , Simonov Sergey , Volkov Anatoly , Dimitrova Olga
Published: April 2022

The synthesis and characterization of a new aluminophosphate, Na2Al2O(PO4)2·0.12H2O obtained as single crystals, is reported. Centrosymmetric tetramers built from AlO5 polyhedra sharing edges and vertices, represent the distinguished feature of the compound. These tetrameric units of AlO5 bipyramids are cross-linked by PO4 tetrahedra to form two-periodic slabs alternating with Na+ ions and a small amount of H2O molecules. The Na2Al2O(PO4)2·0.12H2O with an original crystal architecture is chemically and structurally related to the mineral tinsleyite, KAl2(PO4)2(OH)·2H2O. Similar clusters of Al-centered polyhedra are essential building blocks of both monoclinic structures. The main difference between them consists of the type of the Al coordination by O atoms: in tinsleyite, the clusters are designed from AlO4(OH)2 and AlO4(OH)(H2O) octahedra. In both cases, alkali Na or K atoms significantly distinct in size, act as structure regulating agents, determining the character of the developing crystal architecture. The flexibility of aluminophosphate constructions allows them to self-organize around structure-forming Na+ or K+ ions into anionic layers in Na2Al2O(PO4)2·0.12H2O or a framework (tinsleyite). The synthesis of sodium aluminophosphate under mild hydrothermal conditions and the topological resemblance of its structure with that of the mineral tinsleyite suggest a high probability of a mineral equivalent of the Na2Al2O(PO4)2·0.12H2O in nature.
Geology and Petrography of Uraniferous Bitumens in Permo-Carboniferous Sediments (Vrchlabí, Czech Republic)
Authors: Havelcová Martina , Sýkorová Ivana , René Miloš , Mizera Jiří , Coubal Miroslav , Machovič Vladimír , Strunga Vladimír , Goliáš Viktor
Published: April 2022

Uraniferous bitumens found in black shales from the Permian rocks at Vrchlabí in the Krkonoše Piedmont Basin (Czech Republic) were described and characterized petrologically and mineralogically. The Permian sediments originated from weathering products in metasediments and granitoids of the Krkonoše–Jizera and Orlice–Sněžník crystalline complexes. The organic matter contained up to 4.8 wt.% uranium, as uraninite grains. Elements associated with uraninite, such as Pb, Zr, Cu, and As, may have accumulated from epigenetic fluids in layers rich in organic matter during their late diagenesis. The bitumen structures were extremely heterogeneous, a feature attributed to the radiolytic effects of uranium. Amorphous bitumens, alternating with various forms of nodular and corroded bitumen types from multiple generations, were present. Low and highly altered bitumens with weak anisotropy were recognized, together with halo zones, with reflectance up to 4.37%. The halo zones differed in size, brightness, and reflectance, increasing from the edge to the center. Halos often revealed dark rims between uraninite inclusions and clear zones, originating probably as a result of weaker alterations in organic matter due to the presence of other inorganic components. Uranium concentration was the main factor controlling the degree of radiolytic alteration. The studied uraniferous bitumens are an excellent example of multistage formation and diverse evolution during burial and diagenesis.
Sustainable Use of Copper Resources: Beneficiation of Low-Grade Copper Ores
Authors: Jena Silpa , Tripathy Sunil , Mandre N. , Venugopal R. , Farrokhpay Saeed
Published: April 2022

The global market has announced copper as a modern energy metal and finds its extensive utilization in the construction industry, electrical wiring, power transmission lines, alloying, anticorrosive coating, heat exchangers, refrigeration tubing, etc. Copper ore is primarily beneficiated from sulphide mineral deposits. Due to high-grade copper sulphide deposit exhaustion, the focus has now shifted towards recovery from different lean-grade oxide and mixed ore deposits. The present paper summarizes the utilization of copper as a clean energy mineral and its importance in the current renewable energy sector. Extensive research has been carried out on the flotation of copper sulphide ore as compared to copper oxide and mixed type ores. Besides flotation, other beneficiation techniques (selective flocculation and gravity separation) are also discussed in the present review. A few novel pretreatment methods are currently being studied for copper ore to intensify the separation for higher productivity.
In-Situ Comparative Study of Eucalyptus, Basil, Cloves, Thyme, Pine Tree, and Tea Tree Essential Oil Biocide Efficacy
Authors: Macchia Andrea , Aureli Hélène , Prestileo Fernanda , Ortenzi Federico , Sellathurai Shaila , Docci Antonella , Cerafogli Eleonora , Colasanti Irene Angela , Ricca Michela , La Russa Mauro Francesco
Published: April 2022

Bio-colonization is a dynamic and multiphasic process headed by microorganisms. Conventional treatments to process affected stone materials include chemical biocides, whose formulations are mainly composed of quaternary ammonium salts(QAs), reported to be toxic for human health, dangerous for the environment, and not biodegradable. Accordingly, novel green and eco-friendly products are a promising alternative to treat stone materials deteriorated by microorganism colonization. In this study, the efficacy of pure essential oils (EOs) and a mix of EOs was assessed in situ and compared to a conventional biocide based on QAs, and two commercially green products based on EOs, which were taken as references, through application on a mosaic located at the Archaeological Park of Ostia Antica (Rome). The EO biocide efficacy was analyzed by ultraviolet induced luminescence, spectro-colorimetry and bio-luminometry analyses while the possibility of their permanence on simulated substrate was studied by FTIR spectroscopy. It was observed by FTIR analysis, that EOs considered volatile can leave a residue after the application; typical fingerprint bands at about 2926, 1510, and 1455 cm−1 were recorded in the EO spectra. Every tested oil was confirmed to have a biocide action although minimal in relation to the most conventional products based on QAs. The synergy of the essential oils revealed positive results, showing a stronger biocide efficacy. Further investigation should be carried out to develop the method of application and study of essential oils on cultural heritage.
Rapid Colorimetric pH-Responsive Gold Nanocomposite Hydrogels for Sensing Applications
Authors: Salih Ahmed E. , Elsherif Mohamed , Alam Fahad , Chiesa Matteo , Butt Haider
Published: April 2022

Surface functionalization of metallic nanoparticles (NPs) with external groups can be engineered to fabricate sensors that are responsive to various stimuli like temperature, pH, and numerous ions. Herein, we report the synthesis of gold nanoparticles (GNPs) functionalized with 3-mercaptopropionic acid (GNPs-MPA) and the doping of these nanoparticles into hydrogel materials using the breathing-in/breathing-out (BI-BO) method. MPA has a carboxyl group that becomes protonated and, thus, ionized at a pH below its pKa (4.32); hence, the GNPs-MPA solutions and gels were mostly pH-responsive in the range of 3–5. Optical properties were assessed through ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, namely: transmission and absorption, and the parameters used to quantify the pH changes were the full width at half maximum (FWHM) and position of surface plasmon resonance (SPR). The solutions and gels gradually changed their colors from red to indigo with pH decrementation from 5 to 3, respectively. Furthermore, the solutions’ and doped gels’ highest FWHM sensitivities towards pH variations were 20 nm and 55 nm, respectively, while the SPR’s position sensitivities were 18 nm and 10 nm, respectively. Also, transmission and scanning electron microscopy showed synchronized dispersion and aggregation of NPs with pH change in both solution and gel forms. The gel exhibited excellent repeatability and reversibility properties, and its response time was instantaneous, which makes its deployment as a colorimetric pH-triggered sensor practical. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that has incorporated GNPs into hydrogels utilizing the BI-BO method and demonstrated the pH-dependent optical and colorimetric properties of the developed nanocomposites.
Facile Synthesis of Green Fluorescent Carbon Dots and Their Application to Fe3+ Detection in Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Ye Shuai , Zhang Mingming , Guo Jiaqing , Song Jun , Zeng Pengju , Qu Junle , Chen Yue , Li Hao
Published: April 2022

Carbon dots (CDs), a class of fluorescent nanomaterials, have attracted widespread attention from researchers. Because of their unique chemical properties, these high-quality fluorescent probes are widely used for ion and molecule detection. Excess intake of many ions or molecules can cause harm to the human body. Although iron (in the form of Fe3+ ions) is essential for the human body, excess iron in the human body can cause many diseases, such as iron poisoning. In this study, we have synthesized fluorine and nitrogen co-doped carbon dots (FNCDs) by a hydrothermal method. These FNCDs exhibited good stability, selectivity, and anti-interference ability for Fe3+. Fe3+ could be detected in the range of 0.2–300 μM, and their detection limit is up to 0.08 μM. In addition, the recovery and relative standard deviation measured by the standard addition recovery method were not higher than 107.5% and 1.1%, respectively, indicating that FNCDs have good recovery and accuracy for Fe3+ detection.
Fe-Cr-Nb-B Ferrofluid for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Minuti Anca Emanuela , Stoian George , Herea Dumitru-Daniel , Radu Ecaterina , Lupu Nicoleta , Chiriac Horia
Published: April 2022

A ferrofluid based on Fe67.2Cr12.5Nb0.3B20 magnetic particles with a low Curie temperature was prepared. The particles, most of which had dimensions under 60 nm, were dispersed in a calcium gluconate solution, leading to a stable ferrofluid. The obtained ferrofluid had a magnetization of 0.04 to 0.17 emu/cm3, depending on the particles’ concentration, and a viscosity that increased nonlinearly with the applied magnetic field. The ferrofluid appeared to be biocompatible, as it showed low cytotoxicity, even at high concentrations and for long intervals of co-incubation with human cells, demonstrating a good potential to be used for cancer therapies through magnetic hyperthermia as well as magneto-mechanical actuation.
Electrohydrodynamics Analysis of Dielectric 2D Nanofluids
Authors: Maharana Mrutyunjay , Baruah Niharika , Nayak Sisir Kumar , Sahoo Niranjan , Wu Kai , Goswami Lalit
Published: April 2022

The purpose of this present study is to prepare a stable mineral-oil (MO)-based nanofluid (NF) for usage as a coolant in a transformer. Nanoparticles (NPs) such as hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) and titanium oxide (TiO2) have superior thermal and electrical characteristics. Their dispersion into MO is likely to elevate the electrothermal properties of NFs. Therefore, different batches of NFs are prepared by uniformly dispersing the insulating h-BN and semiconducting TiO2 NP of different concentrations in MO. Bulk h-BN NP of size 1μm is exfoliated into 2D nanosheets of size 150–200 nm, subsequently enhancing the surface area of exfoliated h-BN (Eh-BN). However, from the zeta-potential analysis, NP concentration of 0.01 and 0.1 wt.% are chosen for further study. The thermal conductivity and ACBDV studies of the prepared NF are performed to investigate the cooling and insulation characteristics. The charging-dynamics study verifies the enhancement in ACBDV of the Eh-BN NF. Weibull statistical analysis is carried out to obtain the maximum probability of ACBDV failure, and it is observed that 0.01 wt.% based NF has superior cooling and insulation properties than MO and remaining batches of NFs.
Progress in Transparent Nano-Ceramics and Their Potential Applications
Authors: Ming Wuyi , Jiang Zhiwen , Luo Guofu , Xu Yingjie , He Wenbin , Xie Zhuobin , Shen Dili , Li Liwei
Published: April 2022

Transparent nano-ceramics have an important high-transmittance, material-integrating structure and function and a variety of potential applications, such as use in infrared windows, optical isolators, composite armors, intelligent terminal screens, and key materials of solid-state lasers. Transparent ceramics were originally developed to replace single crystals because of their low fabricating cost, controllable shape, and variable composition. Therefore, this study reviews and summarizes the development trends in transparent nano-ceramics and their potential applications. First, we review the research progress and application of laser nano-ceramic materials, focusing on the influence of controllable doping of rare earth ions on thermal conductivity and the realization of large-scale fabrication technology. Second, the latest research progress on magneto-optical transparent nano-ceramics, mainly including terbium gallium garnet (Tb3Ga5O12, TGG) ceramics and terbium aluminum garnet (Tb3Al5O12, TAG) ceramics, are summarized, and their performance is compared. Third, the research progress of transparent armor nano-ceramic materials, represented by MgAl2O3 and Aluminum oxynitride (AlON), are reviewed. Lastly, the progress in electro-optical transparent nano-ceramics and scintillation transparent nano-ceramics is reported, and the influence of the material-fabrication process on electro-optic effect or luminous intensity is compared. Moreover, the effect of particle diameter on fabrication, the relationship between nano powder and performance, and different sintering methods are discussed. In summary, this study provides a meaningful reference for low-cost and sustainable production in the future.
Intravital Imaging with Two-Photon Microscopy: A Look into the Kidney
Authors: Costanzo Vincenzo , Costanzo Michele
Published: April 2022

Fluorescence microscopy has represented a crucial technique to explore the cellular and molecular mechanisms in the field of biomedicine. However, the conventional one-photon microscopy exhibits many limitations when living samples are imaged. The new technologies, including two-photon microscopy (2PM), have considerably improved the in vivo study of pathophysiological processes, allowing the investigators to overcome the limits displayed by previous techniques. 2PM enables the real-time intravital imaging of the biological functions in different organs at cellular and subcellular resolution thanks to its improved laser penetration and less phototoxicity. The development of more sensitive detectors and long-wavelength fluorescent dyes as well as the implementation of semi-automatic software for data analysis allowed to gain insights in essential physiological functions, expanding the frontiers of cellular and molecular imaging. The future applications of 2PM are promising to push the intravital microscopy beyond the existing limits. In this review, we provide an overview of the current state-of-the-art methods of intravital microscopy, focusing on the most recent applications of 2PM in kidney physiology.
Accelerated Phase Deviation Elimination for Measuring Moving Object Shape with Phase-Shifting-Profilometry
Authors: Liu Wei , Wang Xi , Chen Zhipeng , Ding Yi , Lu Lei
Published: April 2022

Eliminating the phase deviation caused by object motion plays a vital role to obtain the precise phase map to recover the object shape with phase-shifting-profilometry. Pixel-by-pixel phase retrieval using the least-squares algorithm has been widely employed to eliminate the phase deviation caused by moving object. However, pixel-level operation can only eliminate phase deviation within a limited range, and will bring high computational burden. In this paper, we propose an image-level phase compensation method with stochastic gradient descent (SGD) algorithm to accelerate the phase deviation elimination. Since the iteration calculation is implemented at the image-level, the proposed method can accelerate the convergence significantly. Furthermore, since the proposed algorithm is able to correct the phase deviation within (−π,π), the algorithm can tolerate a greater motion range. In addition to simulation experiments, we consider 2-D motion of the object, and conduct a series of comparative experiments to validate the effectiveness of the proposed method in a larger motion range.
Topological Charge of Light Fields with a Polarization Singularity
Authors: Kotlyar Victor V. , Kovalev Alexey A. , Zaitsev Vladislav D.
Published: April 2022

We have studied diverse vector and hybrid light fields, including those with multiple polarization singularities, and have derived relationships for polarization singularity indices based on the familiar Berry formula, which is normally utilized to find the topological charge of a scalar vortex light field. The fields with pure polar-angle-dependent polarization in the beam cross-section are shown to feature either polarization singularity lines outgoing from the center or a single polarization singularity point at the beam center. The fields with pure radial-variable-dependent polarization are shown to have no polarization singularities and zero polarization index. The vector fields with both polar-angle- and radial-variable-dependent polarization are shown to have multiple polarization singularity points that are scattered across the cross-section. A vector field with higher-order radial polarization and a real parameter was also studied and was shown to feature either several polarization singularity lines outgoing from the center or a central singular point, depending on the parameter value. Notably, at different parameter values, the polarization singularity index of such a field can take half-integer, integer, or zero values.
Morphoanatomy and Histochemistry of Septal Nectaries Related to Female Fertility in Banana Plants of the ‘Cavendish’ Subgroup
Authors: dos Santos Silva Manassés , Santana Adriele Nascimento , dos Santos-Serejo Janay Almeida , Ferreira Claudia Fortes , Amorim Edson Perito
Published: April 2022

The objective of this study was to gain a deeper understanding of the morphoanatomical and histochemical structures that compose the nectary of pistillate flowers (female), which are involved in the female fertility of banana plants belonging to the ‘Cavendish’ subgroup. The diploid Calcutta 4 and the Grand Naine cultivar were used for the assessment. Five stages of floral development were proposed. Pistillate flower nectaries were subjected to morphological characterization, morphoanatomy, and histochemical tests (phenolic compounds, proteins, and lipids). Morphoanatomical analysis revealed a greater presence of narrow nectariferous ducts and more developed pluristratified papillae in Calcutta 4. In contrast, Grand Naine displayed cell disintegration in nectariferous ducts and pluristratified papillae, absent transmitting tissue, and greater amounts of vascular bundles at anthesis. However, Calcutta 4 displayed no changes in the nectariferous duct at any of the stages. An association was found between phenolic compounds and lipids in vacuoles adjacent to the vascular bundles, with greater amounts found in Grand Naine. The localization of phenolic compounds may suggest that these compounds play a role in nectar secretion or the oxidation of the nectary region, ultimately limiting the growth and passage of the pollen tube and preventing ovule fertilization.
Effects of Harpin and Flg22 on Growth Enhancement and Pathogen Defense in Cannabis sativa Seedlings
Authors: Sands Lauren B. , Cheek Taylor , Reynolds Joseph , Ma Yi , Berkowitz Gerald A.
Published: April 2022

Pathogen-associated molecular patterns, PAMPs, are a diverse group of molecules associated with pathogenic microbes and are known to activate immune response and in some cases enhance growth in plants. Two PAMPs, harpin and flg22, have shown these affects in various plant species. PAMPs are known to activate basal immunity, the ethylene signaling pathway, alter gene expression and change plant composition. Pretreatment with harpin enhanced hemp seedling resistance to Pythium aphanidermatum, while flg22 failed to induce the defense mechanism towards P. aphanidermatum. In the absence of the pathogen, both harpin and flg22 enhanced seedling growth when compared to the water control. Ethylene is a hormone involved in both plant defense signaling and growth. Both harpin and flg22 pretreatment induced certain ethylene responsive genes but not all the genes examined, indicating that harpin and flg22 act differently in ethylene and potentially defense signaling. In addition, both harpin and flg22 induced CsFRK1 and CsPR1, two marker genes for plant innate immunity. Both PAMPs can enhance growth but likely induce different defense signaling pathways.
ElectroCatalytic Activity of Nickel Foam with Co, Mo, and Ni Phosphide Nanostructures
Authors: Saghafi Yazdi Morteza , Rezayat Mohammad , Rovira Joan Josep Roa
Published: April 2022

In this study, the electrocatalytic activity of nickel foam, which is activated by cobalt, molybdenum, and nickel phosphide nanostructures, is prepared by the plasma hydrothermal method for use in the release of hydrogen and oxygen. The morphology and crystallographic structure of the synthesized phosphide specimens were examined by means of scanning electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction. Moreover, the electrolysis activity for these sets of specimens was investigated using the Tafel polarization curve or linear sweep voltammetry, cyclic voltammetry, as well as by means of the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy technique. Preliminary results show that nickel phosphide presents the highest electrocatalytic activity than the other phosphides developed in this research. In this regard, it presents an electrocatalytic activity to release hydrogen and oxygen of around −1.7 and 0.82 mV, which is measured at a current density of 100 mA·cm−2, respectively.
Oxidative Stress Pathways Linked to Apoptosis Induction by Low-Temperature Plasma Jet Activated Media in Bladder Cancer Cells: An In Vitro and In Vivo Study
Authors: Fukuhara Hideo , Szili Endre J. , Oh Jun-Seok , Chiaki Kawada , Yamamoto Shinkuro , Kurabayashi Atsushi , Furihata Mutsuo , Tsuda Masayuki , Furuta Hiroshi , Lindsay Howard D. , Short Robert D. , Hatta Akimitsu , Inoue Keiji
Published: April 2022

Current methods used to treat non-muscle invasive bladder cancer are inadequate due to a high recurrence rate after surgery and the occurrence of adverse events such as interstitial pneumonia following intravesical instillation therapy. Low-temperature plasma is a new form of physical therapy that provides a rich source of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Oxidative solutions, created by pre-treatment of aqueous media with plasma before application to target cells, lead to the destruction of cancer cells through oxidative stress pathways. This study focuses on the effects of plasma-activated media (PAM) in bladder cancer cells. PAM treatment increases oxidative stress that leads to cell cycle arrest and concomitantly depolarises the mitochondrial membrane leading to increased mitochondrial ROS production. Cell cycle arrest and increased mitochondrial ROS production led to an increase in caspase 3/cytochrome c activity, which might explain the induction of apoptosis in bladder cancer cells in vitro and in a bladder cancer tumour in vivo. These observations highlight the potential of plasma activated solutions as a new adjuvant therapy in the clinical treatment of bladder cancer.
Solutions of Feature and Hyperparameter Model Selection in the Intelligent Manufacturing
Authors: Wang Chung-Ying , Huang Chien-Yao , Chiang Yen-Han
Published: April 2022

In the era of Industry 4.0, numerous AI technologies have been widely applied. However, implementation of the AI technology requires observation, analysis, and pre-processing of the obtained data, which takes up 60–90% of total time after data collection. Next, sensors and features are selected. Finally, the AI algorithms are used for clustering or classification. Despite the completion of data pre-processing, the subsequent feature selection and hyperparameter tuning in the AI model affect the sensitivity, accuracy, and robustness of the system. In this study, two novel approaches of sensor and feature selecting system, and hyperparameter tuning mechanisms are proposed. In the sensor and feature selecting system, the Shapley Additive ExPlanations model is used to calculate the contribution of individual features or sensors and to make the black-box AI model transparent, whereas, in the hyperparameter tuning mechanism, Hyperopt is used for tuning to improve model performance. Implementation of these two new systems is expected to reduce the problems in the processes of selection of the most sensitive features in the pre-processing stage, and tuning of hyperparameters, which are the most frequently occurring problems. Meanwhile, these methods are also applicable to the field of tool wear monitoring systems in intelligent manufacturing.