bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Full-Scale Fatigue Test and Finite Element Analysis on External Inclined Strut Welded Joints of a Wide-Flanged Composite Box Girder Bridge
Authors: Wang Bin , Liu Laijun , Liu Yuqing , Jia Xudong , Xu Xiaoqing , Miao Kaixiang , Ji Jiandong
Published: May 2023

For a wide-flanged composite box girder bridge, the risk of fatigue cracking in the external inclined strut welded joint under the fatigue vehicle load is a problem. The main purposes of this research are to verify the safety of the main bridge of the Linyi Yellow River Bridge, a continuous composite box girder bridge, and to propose suggestions for optimization. In this research, a finite element model of one segment of the bridge was established to investigate the influence surface of the external inclined strut, and, using the nominal stress method, it was confirmed that the fatigue cracking of the welded details of the external inclined strut was risky. Subsequently, a full-scale fatigue test of the external inclined strut welded joint was carried out, and the crack propagation law and S-N curve of the welded details were obtained. Finally, a parametric analysis was conducted with the three-dimensional refined finite element models. The results showed that the welded joint in the real bridge has a fatigue life larger than that of the design life, and methods such as increasing the flange thickness of the external inclined strut and the diameter of the welding hole are beneficial to improve its fatigue performance.
Epitaxial SiC Dosimeters and Flux Monitoring Detectors for Proton Therapy Beams
Authors: Bruzzi Mara , Verroi Enrico
Published: May 2023

The exceptional optoelectronic properties and high radiation resistance of epitaxial silicon carbide make this material attractive for high-energy beam dosimetry and radiation monitoring, especially when strict requirements such as high signal-to-noise ratios, high time and spatial resolutions and low detectivity levels are required. A 4H-SiC Schottky diode has been characterized as a proton-flux-monitoring detector and dosimeter under proton beams for proton therapy. The diode was composed of an epitaxial film grown on 4H-SiC n+-type substrate equipped with a gold Schottky contact. The diode was embedded in a tissue-equivalent epoxy resin and then characterized in terms of capacitance vs. voltage (C-V) and current vs. voltage (I-V) characteristics in the dark in the range of 0–40 V. The dark currents at room temperature are in the order of 1 pA, while the doping and active thicknesses extracted from the C-V are 2.5 × 1015 cm−3 and 2–4 μm, respectively. Proton beam tests have been carried out at the Proton Therapy Center of the Trento Institute for Fundamental Physics and Applications (TIFPA-INFN). They have been carried out with energies and extraction currents of 83–220 MeV and 1–10 nA, respectively, as typical for proton therapy applications, corresponding to dose rates in the range of 5 mGy/s to 2.7 Gy/s. The I-V characteristics measured under proton beam irradiation at the lowest dose rate showed a typical diode photocurrent response and a signal-to-noise ratio well above 10. Investigations with null bias evidenced a very good performance in terms of the diode’s sensitivity, fast rise and decay times and response stability. The diode’s sensitivity was in agreement with the expected theoretical values, and its response was linear throughout the whole investigated dose rate range.
Combined DFT-D3 Computational and Experimental Studies on g-C3N4: New Insight into Structure, Optical, and Vibrational Properties
Authors: Negro Paolo , Cesano Federico , Casassa Silvia , Scarano Domenica
Published: May 2023

Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) has emerged as one of the most promising solar-light-activated polymeric metal-free semiconductor photocatalysts due to its thermal physicochemical stability but also its characteristics of environmentally friendly and sustainable material. Despite the challenging properties of g-C3N4, its photocatalytic performance is still limited by the low surface area, together with the fast charge recombination phenomena. Hence, many efforts have been focused on overcoming these drawbacks by controlling and improving the synthesis methods. With regard to this, many structures including strands of linearly condensed melamine monomers, which are interconnected by hydrogen bonds, or highly condensed systems, have been proposed. Nevertheless, complete and consistent knowledge of the pristine material has not yet been achieved. Thus, to shed light on the nature of polymerised carbon nitride structures, which are obtained from the well-known direct heating of melamine under mild conditions, we combined the results obtained from XRD analysis, SEM and AFM microscopies, and UV-visible and FTIR spectroscopies with the data from the Density Functional Theory method (DFT). An indirect band gap and the vibrational peaks have been calculated without uncertainty, thus highlighting a mixture of highly condensed g-C3N4 domains embedded in a less condensed “melon-like” framework.
Adsorptive Stripping Voltammetry for Determination of Vanadium: A Review
Authors: Wlazłowska Edyta , Grabarczyk Malgorzata
Published: May 2023

The main purpose of this review is to present methods of adsorptive stripping voltammetry that can be used to determine trace amounts of VO2(+) in various types of samples. The detection limits achieved using different working electrodes are presented. The factors influencing the obtained signal, including the selection of the complexing agent and the selection of the working electrode, are shown. For some methods, in order to increase the range of applied concentrations in which vanadium can be detected, a catalytic effect is introduced to adsorptive stripping voltammetry. The influence of the foreign ions and organic matter contained in natural samples on the vanadium signal is analyzed. This paper presents methods of elimination associated with the presence of surfactants in the samples. The methods of adsorptive stripping voltammetry for the simultaneous determination of vanadium with other metal ions are also characterized below. Finally, the practical use of the developed procedures, mainly for the analysis of food and environmental samples, is summarized in a tabular version.
Monitoring of Cutting Process and Tool Condition of Metal and Metal Composite
Authors: Twardowski Paweł , Wieczorowski Michał
Published: May 2023

Machining is a manufacturing process that involves the use of machines to remove materials from a workpiece to create a desired shape and size [...]
Nanocomposite Films of Silver Nanoparticles and Conjugated Copolymer in Natural and Nano-Form: Structural and Morphological Studies
Authors: Rodrigues Rebeca da Rocha , Pellosi Diogo Silva , Louarn Guy , Péres Laura Oliveira
Published: May 2023

The use of conjugated polymers (CPs) and metallic nanoparticles is an interesting way to form nanocomposites with improved optical properties. For instance, a nanocomposite with high sensitivity can be produced. However, the hydrophobicity of CPs may hamper applications due to their low bioavailability and low operability in aqueous media. This problem can be overcome by forming thin solid films from an aqueous dispersion containing small CP nanoparticles. So, in this work we developed the formation of thin films of poly(9,9-dioctylfluorene-co-3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PDOF-co-PEDOT) from its natural and nano form (NCP) from aqueous solution. These copolymers were then blended in films with triangular and spherical silver nanoparticles (AgNP) for future applicability as a SERS sensor of pesticides. TEM characterization showed that the AgNP were adsorbed on the NCP surface, forming a nanostructure with an average diameter of 90 nm (value according to that obtained by DLS) and with a negative potential zeta. These nanostructures were transferred to a solid substrate, forming thin and homogeneous films with different morphology of PDOF-co-PEDOT films, as observed by atomic force microscopy (AFM). XPS data demonstrated the presence of the AgNP in the thin films, as well as evidence that films with NCP are more resistant to the photo-oxidation process. Raman spectra showed characteristic peaks of the copolymer in the films prepared with NCP. It should also be noted the enhancement effect of Raman bands observed on films containing AgNP, a strong indication of the SERS effect induced by the metallic nanoparticles. Furthermore, the different geometry of the AgNP influences the way in which the adsorption between the NCP and the metal surface occurs, with a perpendicular adsorption between the NCP chains and the surface of the triangular AgNP.
Bandgap Engineering of Two-Dimensional Double Perovskite Cs4AgBiBr8/WSe2 Heterostructure from Indirect Bandgap to Direct Bandgap by Introducing Se Vacancy
Authors: Cai Yiwei , Lu Zhengli , Xu Xin , Gao Yujia , Shi Tingting , Wang Xin , Shui Lingling
Published: May 2023

Heterostructures based on layered materials are considered next-generation photocatalysts due to their unique mechanical, physical, and chemical properties. In this work, we conducted a systematic first-principles study on the structure, stability, and electronic properties of a 2D monolayer WSe2/Cs4AgBiBr8 heterostructure. We found that the heterostructure is not only a type-II heterostructure with a high optical absorption coefficient, but also shows better optoelectronic properties, changing from an indirect bandgap semiconductor (about 1.70 eV) to a direct bandgap semiconductor (about 1.23 eV) by introducing an appropriate Se vacancy. Moreover, we investigated the stability of the heterostructure with Se atomic vacancy in different positions and found that the heterostructure was more stable when the Se vacancy is near the vertical direction of the upper Br atoms from the 2D double perovskite layer. The insightful understanding of WSe2/Cs4AgBiBr8 heterostructure and the defect engineering will offer useful strategies to design superior layered photodetectors.
Improved Support Vector Machine for Voiceprint Diagnosis of Typical Faults in Power Transformers
Authors: Wang Jianxin , Zhao Zhishan , Zhu Jun , Li Xin , Dong Fan , Wan Shuting
Published: May 2023

The traditional power transformer diagnosis method relies on a lot of experience knowledge and a complex sampling process, which brings great difficulties to the fault diagnosis work. To solve this problem, a fault feature extraction method based on fully adaptive noise set empirical mode decomposition (CEEMDAN) is proposed, and the hunter–prey optimization (HPO) algorithm is used to optimize the support vector machine (SVM) to identify and classify the voice print faults of power transformers. Firstly, the CEEMDAN algorithm is used to decompose the voicemarks into several IMF components. IMF components containing fault information are selected according to the envelope kurtosis index and reconstructed to generate new signal sequences. PCA dimensionality reduction is performed on the reconstructed signal, and the principal components are extracted with a high cumulative contribution rate as input to SVM. Then, the HPO-SVM algorithm is used to classify and identify transformer faults. Apply the proposed method to the diagnosis of typical faults in power transformers. The results show that the accuracy of this method in identifying various fault states of power transformers can reach 98.5%, and it has better classification performance than other similar methods.
Simulative and Experimental Investigation of the Ring Creeping Damage Mechanism Considering the Training Effect in Large-Sized Bearings
Authors: Billenstein Daniel , Neidnicht Martin , Becker Daniel , Liewen Christian , Rollmann Jörg , Lüneburg Bernd
Published: May 2023

In this work, an advanced, numerical simulation method based on finite element analyses was developed in order to simultaneously take into account both roller- and structural-induced ring creeping phenomena. Ring creeping in general refers to a failure mode caused by a (non-bolted) bearing ring rotating relatively to its adjacent component such as, e.g., shaft or housing during operation. In particular, the coefficient of friction at the contact interface between bearing ring and adjacent component has a crucial influence. In order to consider this effect, a bearing ring creeping test rig based on component-like specimen was developed. Experimental results with respect to (i) measured creeping parameters such as creeping distance and (ii) the coefficient of friction due to run-in effects were described. Finally, experimental and numerical results were compared qualitatively to approve the reasonableness of the simulation model. The developed simulation approach enables the consideration of the entire drive train system within the micro-scale creeping evaluation procedure and therefore supports both drive train and bearing design-specific optimization measures in order to increase the reliability and robustness of a main bearing arrangement.
A Survey on Population-Based Deep Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Long Weifan , Hou Taixian , Wei Xiaoyi , Yan Shichao , Zhai Peng , Zhang Lihua
Published: May 2023

Many real-world applications can be described as large-scale games of imperfect information, which require extensive prior domain knowledge, especially in competitive or human–AI cooperation settings. Population-based training methods have become a popular solution to learn robust policies without any prior knowledge, which can generalize to policies of other players or humans. In this survey, we shed light on population-based deep reinforcement learning (PB-DRL) algorithms, their applications, and general frameworks. We introduce several independent subject areas, including naive self-play, fictitious self-play, population-play, evolution-based training methods, and the policy-space response oracle family. These methods provide a variety of approaches to solving multi-agent problems and are useful in designing robust multi-agent reinforcement learning algorithms that can handle complex real-life situations. Finally, we discuss challenges and hot topics in PB-DRL algorithms. We hope that this brief survey can provide guidance and insights for researchers interested in PB-DRL algorithms.
Night Vision Anti-Halation Algorithm of Different-Source Image Fusion Based on Low-Frequency Sequence Generation
Authors: Guo Quanmin , Liang Jiahao , Wang Hanlei
Published: May 2023

The abuse of high beam lights dazzles the opposite drivers when the vehicles meet at night, which can easily cause traffic accidents. The existing night vision anti-halation algorithms based on different-source image fusion can eliminate halation and obtain fusion images with rich color and details. However, the algorithms mistakenly eliminate some high-brightness important information. In order to address the problem, a night vision anti-halation algorithm based on low-frequency sequence generation is proposed. The low-frequency sequence generation model is constructed to generate image sequences with different degrees of halation elimination. According to the estimated illuminance for image sequences, the proposed sequence synthesis based on visual information maximization assigns a large weight to the areas with good brightness so as to obtain the fusion image without halation and with rich details. In four typical halation scenes covering most cases of night driving, the proposed algorithm effectively eliminates halation while retaining useful high-brightness information and has better universality than the other seven advanced comparison algorithms. The experimental results show that the fusion image obtained by the proposed algorithm is more suitable for human visual perception and helps to improve night driving safety.
Mineral Bioaccessibility and Antioxidant Capacity of Protein Hydrolysates from Salmon (Salmo salar) and Mackerel (Scomber scombrus) Backbones and Heads
Authors: de la Fuente Beatriz , Aspevik Tone , Barba Francisco J. , Kousoulaki Katerina , Berrada Houda
Published: May 2023

Information on the bioaccessibility of minerals is essential to consider a food ingredient as a potential mineral fortifier. In this study, the mineral bioaccessibility of protein hydrolysates from salmon (Salmo salar) and mackerel (Scomber scombrus) backbones and heads was evaluated. For this purpose, the hydrolysates were submitted to simulated gastrointestinal digestion (INFOGEST method), and the mineral content was analyzed before and after the digestive process. Ca, Mg, P, Fe, Zn, and Se were then determined using an inductively coupled plasma spectrometer mass detector (ICP-MS). The highest bioaccessibility of minerals was found in salmon and mackerel head hydrolysates for Fe (≥100%), followed by Se in salmon backbone hydrolysates (95%). The antioxidant capacity of all protein hydrolysate samples, which was measured by Trolox Equivalent Antioxidant Capacity (TEAC), increased (10–46%) after in vitro digestion. The heavy metals As, Hg, Cd, and Pb were determined (ICP-MS) in the raw hydrolysates to confirm the harmlessness of these products. Except for Cd in mackerel hydrolysates, all toxic elements were below the legislation levels for fish commodities. These results suggest the possibility of using protein hydrolysates from salmon and mackerel backbones and heads for food mineral fortification, as well as the need to verify their safety.
Urinary Biomarkers in Monitoring the Progression and Treatment of Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease—The Promised Land?
Authors: Pana Camelia , Stanigut Alina Mihaela , Cimpineanu Bogdan , Alexandru Andreea , Salim Camer , Nicoara Alina Doina , Resit Periha , Tuta Liliana Ana
Published: May 2023

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is the most common genetic kidney disease, and it leads to end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The clinical manifestations of ADPKD are variable, with extreme differences observable in its progression, even among members of the same family with the same genetic mutation. In an age of new therapeutic options, it is important to identify patients with rapidly progressive evolution and the risk factors involved in the disease’s poor prognosis. As the pathophysiological mechanisms of the formation and growth of renal cysts have been clarified, new treatment options have been proposed to slow the progression to end-stage renal disease. Furthermore, in addition to the conventional factors (PKD1 mutation, hypertension, proteinuria, total kidney volume), increasing numbers of studies have recently identified new serum and urinary biomarkers of the disease’s progression, which are cheaper and more easily to dosing from the early stages of the disease. The present review discusses the utility of new biomarkers in the monitoring of the progress of ADPKD and their roles in new therapeutic approaches.
Why Are Perivascular Spaces Important?
Authors: Shulyatnikova Tatyana , Hayden Melvin R.
Published: May 2023

Perivascular spaces (PVS) and their enlargement (EPVS) have been gaining interest as EPVS can be visualized non-invasively by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) when viewing T-2-weighted images. EPVS are most commonly observed in the regions of the basal ganglia and the centrum semiovale; however, they have also been identified in the frontal cortex and hippocampal regions. EPVS are known to be increased in aging and hypertension, and are considered to be a biomarker of cerebral small vessel disease (SVD). Interest in EPVS has been significantly increased because these PVS are now considered to be an essential conduit necessary for the glymphatic pathway to provide the necessary efflux of metabolic waste. Metabolic waste includes misfolded proteins of amyloid beta and tau that are known to accumulate in late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (LOAD) within the interstitial fluid that is delivered to the subarachnoid space and eventually the cerebral spinal fluid (CSF). The CSF acts as a sink for accumulating neurotoxicities and allows clinical screening to potentially detect if LOAD may be developing early on in its clinical progression via spinal fluid examination. EPVS are thought to occur by obstruction of the PVS that associates with excessive neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and vascular stiffening that impairs flow due to a dampening of the arterial and arteriolar pulsatility that aids in the convective flow of the metabolic debris within the glymphatic effluxing system. Additionally, increased EPVS has also been associated with Parkinson’s disease and non-age-related multiple sclerosis (MS).
In Vitro Evaluation of the Accuracy of Three Electronic Apex Locators Using Different Sodium Hypochlorite Concentrations
Authors: Cîmpean Sanda Ileana , Chisnoiu Radu Marcel , Colceriu Burtea Adela Loredana , Rotaru Rareș , Bud Marius Gheorghe , Delean Ada Gabriela , Pop-Ciutrilă Ioana-Sofia
Published: May 2023

Background and Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the accuracy of three types of electronic apex locators (EALs) when two different concentrations of NaOCl irrigation solutions are used by two operators. Materials and Methods: After creating the access cavities for 20 single rooted extracted teeth, the actual canal length (ACL) of each canal was determined visually using a #10 file and magnification. The teeth were subsequently inserted in plastic molds filled with alginate. The electronic measurement of root canal length (EWL) was performed using three different electronic apex locators: Root ZX II, Apex ID, and Dual Pex. Two independent operators, an endodontic specialist with 20 years practice and an undergraduate student in the final year of study, performed the irrigation procedures with two different concentrations of NaOCl (2% and 5.25%), and then measured the EWL using each of the EALs. The accuracy of all EALs, was determined in each case by subtracting the EWL from the ACL. Statistical analyses were performed using one-way ANOVA test. Results: In the presence of 2% NaOCl solution, for a margin error of ±0.5 mm, Root ZX II, Apex ID, and Dual Pex presented an accuracy of 90%, 80%, and 85% respectively. The increase in the concentration of the irrigation solution affected the accuracy of Root ZX II and Apex ID for both operators, diminishing it to 75% for the same margin error, but improved Dual Pex’s accuracy to 100%. Conclusions: The best accuracy in working length determination was obtained by Root ZX II for 2% NaOCl solution and by Dual Pex for 5.25% NaOCl solution with no significant statistical difference when compared.
Supplement Consumption and Periodontal Health: An Exploratory Survey Using the BigMouth Repository
Authors: Saleh Muhammad H. A. , Decker Ann , Tattan Mustafa , Tattan Omar , Decker Joseph , Alrmali Abdusalam , Wang Hom-Lay
Published: May 2023

Background: Dietary supplements have been investigated for their impact on the periodontal apparatus (alveolar bone, mucosa, periodontal ligament, and cementum) and their hypothetical protective role against periodontitis. There remains a gap in the field in this area. Thus, the present study aims to examine the correlation between populations who report taking different dietary supplements and their relative periodontal health. Methods: The BigMouth dental data repository derived from the dental Electronic Health Records (EHRs) of the University of Michigan school of dentistry was used to extract data relating to all patients who fulfilled the eligibility criteria. The prevalence of periodontitis compared to periodontal health as related to supplement consumption was assessed. Results: A total of 118,426 individuals (55,459 males and 62,967 females) with self-reported consumption of the dietary supplements of interest were identified in the University of Michigan database via the BigMouth repository. Associations with the following vitamins were investigated, Vitamin B, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, Multivitamins, Fish oil, Calcium, Omega 3, Saw palmetto, Zinc, Sildenafil, Flax seed, Folic acid, Garlic pills, Ginger pills, Ginko, Ginseng, Glucosamine, Iron, and Magnesium. Out of these supplements, only multivitamins and iron were found to significantly favor periodontal health, while folic acid and vitamin E significantly favored periodontitis. Conclusions: This study found a minimal association between the consumption of dietary supplements with periodontal health.
Age-Related Macular or Retinal Degeneration?
Authors: Gałuszka Michalina , Pojda-Wilczek Dorota , Karska-Basta Izabella
Published: May 2023

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is an eye disease that leads to progressive vision loss. Its prevalence has been increasing due to population aging. Previously, it was commonly believed that the disease affects the central retina, that is, the macula. However, recent studies have shown that it also involves the peripheral retina. Novel imaging techniques revealed various degenerative lesions that extend beyond the central macula. While their prevalence remains unknown, they seem to be more frequent in patients with late AMD. These findings suggest that the term “age-related retinal dysfunction” might be more adequate to describe some cases of AMD. They also raise the question about the role of electroretinography (ERG) as an objective measure of retinal function. The most common types of ERG tests used in AMD are multifocal (mfERG) and full-field ERG (ffERG). mfERG is more sensitive to macular changes, but the test is difficult to perform when fixation is unstable. On the other hand, ffERG reflects the function of the entire retina, not only the macular area. It helps assess the impact of peripheral retinal lesions and overall retinal function in patients with AMD. As ffERG results are normal in early-stage AMD, any abnormalities indicate that the disease is more severe and affects the entire retina. Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor injections improve retinal function in patients with neovascular AMD, as demonstrated by an increase in their ERG responses. More research is needed to assess the association between local and general retinal dysfunction. In this review, ffERG findings in patients with AMD are described and the usefulness of ffERG is discussed based on previous studies and cases from our own clinical practice.
Posterior Medial Meniscus Root Repair Using Two Transtibial Tunnels with Modified Mason–Allen Stitches: A Technical Note
Authors: Kim Du-Han , Bae Ki-Cheor , Yon Chang-Jin , Kim Ji-Hoon
Published: May 2023

Complete tear of the posterior medial meniscus root can result in a loss of hoop tension and increased contact pressure. Thus, medial meniscus posterior root tear (MMPRT) is increasingly recognized as an important pathology. Although several surgical techniques for MMPRT have recently been introduced, the ideal technique is not yet established. This technical note is aimed at introducing a novel surgical technique using two transtibial tunnels with modified Mason–Allen stitches in the treatment of MMPRT.
Metagenomic Sequencing of Positive Blood Culture Fluid for Accurate Bacterial and Fungal Species Identification: A Pilot Study
Authors: Kamau Edwin , Yang Shangxin
Published: May 2023

With blood stream infections (BSIs) representing a major cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide, blood cultures play a crucial role in diagnosis, but their clinical application is dampened by the long turn-around time and the detection of only culturable pathogens. In this study, we developed and validated a shotgun metagenomics next-generation sequencing (mNGS) test directly from positive blood culture fluid, allowing for the identification of fastidious or slow growing microorganisms more rapidly. The test was built based on previously validated next-generation sequencing tests, which rely on several key marker genes for bacterial and fungal identification. The new test utilizes an open-source metagenomics CZ-ID platform for the initial analysis to generate the most likely candidate species, which is then used as a reference genome for downstream, confirmatory analysis. This approach is innovative because it takes advantage of an open-source software’s agnostic taxonomic calling capability while still relying on the more established and previously validated marker gene-based identification scheme, increasing the confidence in the final results. The test showed high accuracy (100%, 30/30) for both bacterial and fungal microorganisms. We further demonstrated its clinical utility especially for anaerobes and mycobacteria that are either fastidious, slow growing, or unusual. Although applicable in only limited settings, the Positive Blood Culture mNGS test provides an incremental improvement in solving the unmet clinical needs for the diagnosis of challenging BSIs.
Markers of Epstein-Barr Virus Infection in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Debuysschere Cyril , Nekoua Magloire Pandoua , Hober Didier
Published: May 2023

Viral infections have been suspected of being involved in the pathogenesis of certain autoimmune diseases for many years. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a DNA virus belonging to the Herpesviridae family, is thought to be associated with the onset and/or the progression of multiple sclerosis (MS), systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren’s syndrome and type 1 diabetes. The lifecycle of EBV consists of lytic cycles and latency programmes (0, I, II and III) occurring in infected B-cells. During this lifecycle, viral proteins and miRNAs are produced. This review provides an overview of the detection of EBV infection, focusing on markers of latency and lytic phases in MS. In MS patients, the presence of latency proteins and antibodies has been associated with lesions and dysfunctions of the central nervous system (CNS). In addition, miRNAs, expressed during lytic and latency phases, may be detected in the CNS of MS patients. Lytic reactivations of EBV can occur in the CNS of patients as well, with the presence of lytic proteins and T-cells reacting to this protein in the CNS of MS patients. In conclusion, markers of EBV infection can be found in MS patients, which argues in favour of a relationship between EBV and MS.
δ-MnO2 Drives the Green Decomposition of Arsenopyrite by Mediating the Fate of Arsenic to Generate FeAsO4
Authors: Pan Xuan , Liu Li-Zhu , Nie Zhen-Yuan , Xia Jin-Lan
Published: May 2023

Arsenopyrite (FeAsS) is a typical gold-bearing sulfide mineral. It usually encapsulates the gold particles and seriously inhibits the leaching of gold, so oxidation pretreatment of arsenopyrite is prerequired for the effective leaching of gold. However, the oxidation of arsenopyrite is accompanied by arsenic mobility, potentially resulting in serious environmental issues. An eco-friendly oxidant, δ-MnO2, was herein used to effectively oxidize arsenopyrite and control the fate of arsenic under acidic conditions. Via characterization of the variation of leaching parameters, morphology change, and elemental speciation transformation on the mineral surface, it was found that adding δ-MnO2 significantly provoked the oxidation of Fe(II) and As(−I) to Fe(III) and As(V), and mediated the speciation transformation of Fe/As to FeAsO4. δ-MnO2 dosage remarkably controlled the oxidation efficiency of arsenopyrite and arsenic speciation transformation, efficiently regulating arsenic fate. These results suggest that δ-MnO2 could simultaneously promote the dissolution of arsenopyrite and the immobilization of arsenic, which could have implications for the oxidation pretreatment of refractory gold minerals and the source management of arsenic-contaminated environments.
Calcium Oxalates in Soils within Disturbed Landscapes and Rock on the Territory of Yakutia (Russia), Formation Conditions in a Sharply Continental Cryoarid Climate
Authors: Vasileva Tatiana I. , Legostaeva Yana B.
Published: May 2023

The formation of oxalates in soils and rocks under conditions of cryoarid climate, permafrost and taiga vegetation was studied. Whewellite and weddellite were found in four areas associated with the mining industry: on the kimberlite deposit of the Daldyn territory, in the lower reaches of the Markha River of the Central Yakut Plain, and on the coastal outcrop of the Allah-Yun Sellah-Khotun ore cluster. Whewellite was found in the upper organic horizon of Skeletic Cryosol (Thixotropic) (sample 151) and as a film on the surface of plant remains of Humic Fluvisols (sample 1663). Weddellite was found as an extensive encrustation on the surface of the soil and vegetation cover of Stagnic Cryosols Reductaquic (sample 984) and on a siltstone outcrop (sample KM-6-21). Calcium oxalates were identified by X-ray phase analysis, photographs of the samples were taken on a polarizing microscope, and the crystal morphology was studied on a scanning electron microscope. To determine the chemical composition of soils and rocks, the classical wet-chemical method was used; the physical properties of the studied samples were studied using a pH meter, the photoelectric colorimetric method, and a synchrotron thermal analysis device. The source of calcium for the formation of salts is the parent layers of the studied soils, represented by carbonate and carbonate clastic rocks, which cause neutral and slightly alkaline environments. High humidity, which is provided by the seasonal thawing of the permafrost, has a key role in the formation of the studied oxalates in Yakutia with a sharply continental cryoarid climate. Based on the studies, it was found that the first two samples are the products of lichen activity, and the third and fourth are at the stage of initial soil formation by micromycetes. In addition, the formation of these oxalates, in our opinion, is the result of the protective function of vegetation, in the first two cases, with a sharp increase in the load on lichens under technogenic impact, and in the second and third cases, when favorable conditions arise for initial soil formation, but under conditions of toxic content of heavy metals and arsenic.
Lysozyme–Mineral Clay Systems: Comparison of Interaction for Controlled Release in Feed Application
Authors: Guagliano Marianna , Dell’Anno Matteo , Dotelli Giovanni , Finocchio Elisabetta , Lacalamita Maria , Mesto Ernesto , Reggi Serena , Rossi Luciana , Schingaro Emanuela , Staltari Elena , Cristiani Cinzia
Published: May 2023

A synthetic approach to bond lysozyme (LY) to commercial natural carriers, namely clay minerals (bentonite, BN; and sepiolite, SP) and commercial zeolite (Phil 75®, PH), already in use in feed formulation, is proposed. The synthetic route, which implies solid–liquid adsorption, is a simple and effective way for preparing hybrid materials characterized by LY loadings up to 37 mgLY/gcarrier. By operating at pH 4.3, initial LY content of 37.5 mgLY/gcarrier, and reaction time of 90 min, hybrid materials with LY loadings of 37, 35, and 12 mgLY/gcarrier for LY-SP, LY-BN, and LY-PH, respectively were obtained. The LY initial concentration and pH, as well as the physico-chemical properties of the carries were found to be the parameters that govern the synthesis of the materials. The driving force for an effective LY adsorption and interaction is the combined Zero Point Charge (ZPC) of the carriers, always negative (in the range between −4 and −170 mV) and the positive ZPC of LY, as well as the carrier morphology, characterized by mesoporosity (pore dimensions in the range of 5–12 nm). However, it is the interaction of charges of opposite sign that mainly affects LY loadings and bond strength. Based on SEM-EDX analysis, LY molecules are quite homogeneously spread onto the carriers’ surface. TG-DTG analyses showed that the LY–carrier interaction in the hybrid materials is stronger than that in a simple mechanical mixture of the components. Specifically, in the hybrid materials, the phenomenon at 300 °C, associated to LY decomposition, is broadened and slightly shifted towards higher temperatures (320–350 °C), whereas in a mechanical mixture of the same composition, it occurs at temperatures closer to those of free LY, as if there were no or very weak interactions. At pH 3, a very little LY release, 0.03 and 0.01 mgLY/gcarrier, was found for LY-BN and LY-PH, respectively. The latter became larger at pH 7, 0.06 mgLY/gcarrier for both BN and PH carriers, suggesting that BN and PH are better modulators of LY release. The paper provides insights for the study and the development of new optimized feed formulations for the targeted delivery of natural compounds with antimicrobial activity, alternatives to antibiotics, and vaccinal antigens.
Tuning the Site-to-Site Interaction of Heteronuclear Diatom Catalysts MoTM/C2N (TM = 3d Transition Metal) for Electrochemical Ammonia Synthesis
Authors: Yang Xiaoli , An Ping , Wang Ruiying , Jia Jianfeng
Published: May 2023

Ammonia (NH3) synthesis is one of the most important catalytic reactions in energy and chemical fertilizer production, which is of great significance to the sustainable development of society and the economy. The electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction (eNRR), especially when driven by renewable energy, is generally regarded as an energy-efficient and sustainable process to synthesize NH3 in ambient conditions. However, the performance of the electrocatalyst is far below expectations, with the lack of a high-efficiency catalyst being the main obstacle. Herein, by means of comprehensive spin-polarized density functional theory (DFT) computations, the catalytic performance of MoTM/C2N (TM = 3d transition metal) for use in eNRR was systematically evaluated. Among the results, MoFe/C2N can be considered the most promising catalyst due to its having the lowest limiting potential (−0.26 V) and high selectivity in the context of eNRR. Compared with its homonuclear counterparts, MoMo/C2N and FeFe/C2N, MoFe/C2N can balance the first protonation step and the sixth protonation step synergistically, showing outstanding activity regarding eNRR. Our work not only opens a new door to advancing sustainable NH3 production by tailoring the active sites of heteronuclear diatom catalysts but also promotes the design and production of novel low-cost and efficient nanocatalysts.
Tremella fuciformis Polysaccharide Induces Apoptosis of B16 Melanoma Cells via Promoting the M1 Polarization of Macrophages
Authors: Xie Lingna , Liu Guangrong , Huang Zebin , Zhu Zhenyuan , Yang Kaiye , Liang Yiheng , Xu Yani , Zhang Lanyue , Du Zhiyun
Published: May 2023

Anti-tumor activity of Tremella fuciformis polysaccharides (TFPS) has been widely reported, but its mechanism remains poorly understood. In this study, we established an in vitro co-culture system (B16 melanoma cells and RAW 264.7 macrophage-like cells) to explore the potential anti-tumor mechanism of TFPS. Based on our results, TFPS exhibited no inhibition on the cell viability of B16 cells. However, significant apoptosis was observed when B16 cells were co-cultured with TFPS-treated RAW 264.7 cells. We further found that mRNA levels of M1 macrophage markers including iNOS and CD80 were significantly upregulated in TFPS-treated RAW 264.7 cells, while M2 macrophage markers such as Arg-1 and CD 206 remained unchanged. Besides, the migration, phagocytosis, production of inflammatory mediators (NO, IL-6 and TNF-α), and protein expression of iNOS and COX-2 were markedly enhanced in TFPS-treated RAW 264.7 cells. Network pharmacology analysis indicated that MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways may be involved in M1 polarization of macrophages, and this hypothesis was verified by Western blot. In conclusion, our research demonstrated that TFPS induced apoptosis of melanoma cells by promoting M1 polarization of macrophages, and suggested TFPS may be applied as an immunomodulatory for cancer therapy.
Elaboration of Silicon Nanostructures with Vapor-Phase Silver Assisted Chemical Etching: Correlation between Structural and Optical Properties
Authors: Amri Chohdi , Liu Shengzhong (Frank) , Najar Adel
Published: May 2023

Based on the widely used wet metal-assisted electroless etching, we develop in this work a novel vapor-phase silver-assisted chemical etching (VP-Ag-ACE) suitable for the elaboration of highly doped p-silicon (Si) nanostructures with strong, visible, and multi-peak photoluminescence (PL) emissions. The lateral and vertical etching rates (LER and VER) were discussed based on the etching mechanism of the VP-Ag-ACE. The antireflective suitability of the vapor-etched layer has been evaluated by a reflectivity measurement and exhibits reflectivity values lower than 3%. The PL emission at both room and low temperatures emissions were deeply discussed and correlated with the structural properties of the Si morphologies and their surface states based on the FTIR results.
Automated Prediction of Bacterial Exclusion Areas on SEM Images of Graphene–Polymer Composites
Authors: Rahimi Shadi , Lovmar Teo , Aulova Alexandra , Pandit Santosh , Lovmar Martin , Forsberg Sven , Svensson Magnus , Kádár Roland , Mijakovic Ivan
Published: May 2023

To counter the rising threat of bacterial infections in the post-antibiotic age, intensive efforts are invested in engineering new materials with antibacterial properties. The key bottleneck in this initiative is the speed of evaluation of the antibacterial potential of new materials. To overcome this, we developed an automated pipeline for the prediction of antibacterial potential based on scanning electron microscopy images of engineered surfaces. We developed polymer composites containing graphite-oriented nanoplatelets (GNPs). The key property that the algorithm needs to consider is the density of sharp exposed edges of GNPs that kill bacteria on contact. The surface area of these sharp exposed edges of GNPs, accessible to bacteria, needs to be inferior to the diameter of a typical bacterial cell. To test this assumption, we prepared several composites with variable distribution of exposed edges of GNP. For each of them, the percentage of bacterial exclusion area was predicted by our algorithm and validated experimentally by measuring the loss of viability of the opportunistic pathogen Staphylococcus epidermidis. We observed a remarkable linear correlation between predicted bacterial exclusion area and measured loss of viability (R2 = 0.95). The algorithm parameters we used are not generally applicable to any antibacterial surface. For each surface, key mechanistic parameters must be defined for successful prediction.
Impedance Analysis to Evaluate Nutritional Status in Physiological and Pathological Conditions
Authors: Catapano Angela , Trinchese Giovanna , Cimmino Fabiano , Petrella Lidia , D’Angelo Margherita , Di Maio Girolamo , Crispino Marianna , Cavaliere Gina , Monda Marcellino , Mollica Maria Pina
Published: May 2023

A thorough knowledge of body composition assessment techniques is the cornerstone for initiating a customized nutritional program. The second step is to consider the potential of their application in different physiological and pathological conditions and their effectiveness in the management of a monitoring pathway during dietary interventions. To date, bioimpedance analysis is the most effective and reliable method for assessing body composition due to its advantages in terms of speed of execution, non-invasiveness and low cost. Therefore, this review article aims to analyze the main concepts and application areas of bioimpedance measurement techniques, in particular vector frequency-based analysis (BIVA) systems, in order to assess their validity in both physiological and pathological conditions.
Retrospective Screening of Anthrax-like Disease Induced by Bacillus tropicus str. JMT from Chinese Soft-Shell Turtles in Taiwan
Authors: Tsai Jia-Ming , Kuo Hsin-Wei , Cheng Winton
Published: May 2023

Bacillus cereus is ubiquitous in the environment and a well-known causative agent of foodborne disease. Surprisingly, more and more emerging strains of atypical B. cereus have been identified and related to severe disease in humans and mammals such as chimpanzees, apes, and bovine. Recently, the atypical B. cereus isolates, which mainly derive from North America and Africa, have drawn great attention due to the potential risk of zoonosis. The cluster of B. cereus carries several anthrax-like virulent genes that are implicated in lethal disease. However, in non-mammals, the distribution of atypical B. cereus is still unknown. In this study, we conducted a retrospective screening of the 32 isolates of Bacillus spp. from diseased Chinese soft-shelled turtles from 2016 to 2020. To recognize the causative agent, we used various methods, such as sequencing analysis using PCR-amplification of the 16S rRNA gene, multiplex PCR for discriminating, and colony morphology by following previous studies. Furthermore, the digital DNA-DNA hybridization (dDDH) and average nucleotide identity (ANI) values were calculated, respectively, below the 70 and 96% cutoff to define species boundaries. According to the summarized results, the pathogen is taxonomically classified as Bacillus tropicus str. JMT (previous atypical Bacillus cereus). Subsequently, analyses such as targeting the unique genes using PCR and visual observation of the bacteria under various staining techniques were implemented in our study. Our findings show that all (32/32, 100%) isolates in this retrospective screening share similar phenotypical properties and carry the protective antigen (PA), edema factor (EF), hyaluronic acid (HA), and exopolysaccharide (Bps) genes on their plasmids. In this study, the results indicate that the geographic distribution and host range of B. tropicus were previously underestimated.
Preparation Strategies of the Anti-Mycobacterial Drug Bedaquiline for Intrapulmonary Routes of Administration
Authors: Maloney Sara E. , Stewart Ian E. , Podell Brendan K. , Gary Hadley E. , Mecham Jeffrey B. , Berube Bryan J. , Baldwin Susan L. , Coler Rhea N. , Hickey Anthony J.
Published: May 2023

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.tb) has infected one-quarter of the world’s population and led to the deaths of 1.6 million individuals in 2021 according to estimates from the World Health Organization. The rise in prevalence of multidrug-resistant and extensively drug-resistant M.tb strains coupled with insufficient therapies to treat such strains has motivated the development of more effective treatments and/or delivery modalities. Bedaquiline, a diarylquinoline antimycobacterial agent, effectively targets mycobacterial ATP synthase but may lead to systemic complications upon oral delivery. Targeted delivery of bedaquiline to the lungs represents an alternative strategy to harness the sterilizing benefits of the drug against M.tb while mitigating off-target side effects. Two pulmonary delivery modalities were developed herein, including dry powder inhalation and liquid instillation. Despite bedaquiline’s poor water solubility, spray drying was performed in predominantly aqueous conditions (≥80%) to avoid a closed-loop, inert system. Aerosols of spray-dried bedaquiline with L-leucine excipient outperformed spray-dried bedaquiline alone, demonstrating superior fine particle fraction metrics (~89% of the emitted dose below <5 µm), suitable for inhalation therapies. Furthermore, the use of a 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin excipient allowed a molecular dispersion of bedaquiline in an aqueous solution for liquid instillation. Both delivery modalities were successfully administered to Hartley guinea pigs for pharmacokinetic analysis and were well-tolerated by the animals. Intrapulmonary liquid delivery of bedaquiline led to adequate serum absorption and appropriate peak serum concentrations of the drug. The liquid formulation was superior in systemic uptake compared to the powder formulation. The predominant route via which M.tb bacilli enter the body is aerosol droplets that are deposited onto airway surfaces. For this reason, we believe that further studies should focus on inhalation or intrapulmonary therapies that target the site of entry and primary site of infection for M.tb.