bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Binary Black Widow Optimization Algorithm for Addressing the Cell Formation Problem Involving Alternative Routes and Machine Reliability
Authors: Figueroa-Torrez Paulo , Durán Orlando , Crawford Broderick , Cisternas-Caneo Felipe
Published: August 2023

The Cell Formation Problem (CFP) involves the clustering of machines to enhance productivity and capitalize on various benefits. This study addresses a variant of the problem where alternative routes and machine reliability are included, which we call a Generalized Cell Formation Problem with Machine Reliability (GCFP-MR). This problem is known to be NP-Hard, and finding efficient solutions is of utmost importance. Metaheuristics have been recognized as effective optimization techniques due to their adaptability and ability to generate high-quality solutions in a short time. Since BWO was originally designed for continuous optimization problems, its adaptation involves binarization. Accordingly, our proposal focuses on adapting the Black Widow Optimization (BWO) metaheuristic to tackle GCFP-MR, leading to a new approach named Binary Black Widow Optimization (B-BWO). We compare our proposal in two ways. Firstly, it is benchmarked against a previous Clonal Selection Algorithm approach. Secondly, we evaluate B-BWO with various parameter configurations. The experimental results indicate that the best configuration of parameters includes a population size (Pop) set to 100, and the number of iterations (Maxiter) defined as 75. Procreating Rate (PR) is set at 0.8, Cannibalism Rate (CR) is set at 0.4, and the Mutation Rate (PM) is also set at 0.4. Significantly, the proposed B-BWO outperforms the state-of-the-art literature’s best result, achieving a noteworthy improvement of 1.40%. This finding reveals the efficacy of B-BWO in solving GCFP-MR and its potential to produce superior solutions compared to alternative methods.
Modeling the Within-Host Dynamics of SARS-CoV-2 Infection Based on Antiviral Treatment
Authors: Song Tianqi , Wang Yishi , Gu Xi , Qiao Sijia
Published: August 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the profound impact of the SARS-CoV-2 virus as a significant threat to human health. There is an urgent need to develop a comprehensive understanding of the current outbreak by studying the dynamics of the virus within the human body. In this research, we present a mathematical model that explores the progression of SARS-CoV-2 infection, taking into account both the innate and adaptive immune responses. We calculated the basic reproduction number and analyzed the stability of the equilibria. Additionally, we demonstrated the existence of a periodic solution through numerical simulations. By conducting a global sensitivity analysis, we determined the significance of the model parameters and investigated the influence of key parameters on viral load. The results emphasized the crucial roles of cytokines and antibodies in shaping the dynamics of SARS-CoV-2. Furthermore, we evaluated the effectiveness of antiviral treatment in controlling the dynamics of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Our findings revealed a direct relationship between the basic reproduction number and the impact of antiviral treatment. To evaluate the effect of antiviral treatment on viral load, we conducted numerical simulations.
Effect of Various Processes on Microstructure of CoCrFeNiAlx High-Entropy Alloy Shot Peening Layer
Authors: Li Xiaodong , Gou Guoqing , Jiang Chuanhai , Xu Jijin
Published: August 2023

The change in microstructure caused by shot peening can strengthen the material and play an important role in improving the fatigue properties of the material. In order to investigate the related properties such as plastic strain anddislocation activity, the microstructure of CoCrFeNiAlx alloy shot peening layer under different processes was studied. The material exhibited a single austenitic phase, and the FCC crystal structure remained unchanged despite variations in shot peening intensity. Microstructure analysis indicates that with the increase in shot peening intensity, the grain size of the shot peening layer decreases obviously, and the content of microscopic distortion on the surface of the shot peening layer is the highest, and gradually decreases with the increase in depth. At the same time, the roughness of the sample surface is also reduced, which can enhance the fatigue strength and life of the sample. A TEM study revealed the microstructure of the shot peening layer. During the impact of shot peening, the twins produced gradually subdivided the initial grain into smaller slices. With the accumulation of plastic strain, dislocation activity begins to dominate the deformation process. The deformation-induced dislocations accumulate gradually in the small pieces and accumulate into dislocations perpendicular to the secondary twins. These results could be conducive to providing reference and theoretical basis for improving and strengthening the mechanical properties of a series of materials such as high-entropy alloy.
Study on Flight Dynamics and Heat Transfer Solidification of Metal Droplets during Centrifugal Spray Deposition Forming Process
Authors: Li Peng , Wei Shizhong , Lei Xianqing , Yang Lu , Sun Bo
Published: August 2023

Centrifugal spray deposition forming technology, which is used in the preparation process of near-net-forming billets, not only reduces the macroscopic segregation and refines the microstructures of billets but also has the characteristics of a rapid solidification structure. The trajectory, velocity, heat transfer and solidification of metal droplets granulated by the centrifugal force during flight will affect the shape, precision and microstructure of the billet. Therefore, it is necessary to study the dynamics and thermal history of droplets in flight. In this study, a single droplet is taken as the object. Considering the resistance of ambient gas, Newton’s second law, classical nucleation theory, Newton’s cooling law and the energy conservation equation were used to establish a dynamic model and heat transfer solidification model of liquid metal droplets during flight. The influence of the centrifugal disc speed on the diameter of granulated droplets was analyzed. The variation law of droplet flight trajectory and velocity was explored. The supercooling degree in metal droplet nucleation was quantified, and the influence of droplet diameter, superheat and other factors on heat transfer and solidification was revealed. The results show that the numerical calculation results are basically consistent with the previous research results. The trajectory of the droplet is parabolic during flight. The initial velocity of the droplet, the environmental gas resistance and the convective heat transfer coefficient are positively correlated with the rotating speed of the centrifugal disc; however, the droplet diameter is negatively correlated with the rotating speed of the centrifugal disc. The super cooling degree at the time of droplet nucleation and the flight time required for solidification are negatively correlated with the droplet diameter. Among them, the droplet diameter has a linear relationship with the solidification start time and a quadratic curve relationship with the solidification end time. The effect of superheat on the heat transfer and solidification of droplets is not obvious. The conclusions obtained can provide a theoretical basis for the determination of the preparation process parameters.
Structure and Properties of Arc Ion Plating Deposited AlCrSiN Coatings Controlled by Pulsed Bias Voltage
Authors: Zhang Rui , Liu Yanmei , Wang Chongyang , Cao Fengting , Fan Qixiang , Wang Tiegang
Published: August 2023

AlCrSiN coatings are promising protective candidates for cutting and forming tools. During the coating deposition process, the microstructure and properties of the coatings were dramatically affected by bias voltages. To further optimize and enhance the AlCrSiN coating, a series of coatings were deposited at different pulse bias voltages using arc ion plating technology. By virtue of scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, scratch method, OCP, EIS, and other analytical methods, the effects of the pulse bias voltage on the crystal structure, microstructure, and mechanical, tribological, and electrochemical properties of the AlCrSiN coatings were analyzed. The study revealed that the pulse bias voltage exerted a slight influence on the aluminum and nitrogen content of the coatings. As the pulse bias voltage increased, the hardness, critical load, and tribological performance of the AlCrSiN coatings first increased gradually, and then were impaired slightly. When the pulse bias voltage was −100 V, the resulting AlCrSiN coating exhibited the densest structure, the highest hardness, the strongest adhesion, and the best wear resistance. In this case, the coating hardness and critical load reached 2668 HV and 72.7 N, respectively. The friction coefficient and wear rate were 0.35 and 1.02 × 10−3 μm3/N·μm, respectively. Simultaneously, the AlCrSiN coating demonstrated exceptional corrosion resistance in 3.5 wt.% NaCl solutions, surpassing uncoated 304 steel by 3~4 times.
Effect of Pre-Hospital Intravenous Fluids on Initial Metabolic Acid-Base Status in Trauma Patients: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Bossel Damien , Bourgeat Mylène , Pantet Olivier , Zingg Tobias
Published: August 2023

Despite its known harmful effects, normal saline is still commonly used in the treatment of hypovolemia in polytrauma patients. Given the lack of pre-hospital research on this topic, the current study aims to assess the current practice of fluid administration during the pre-hospital phase of care and its effects on initial metabolic acid-base status in trauma patients. We extracted and completed data from patients recorded in the Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) trauma registry between 2008 and 2019. Patients were selected according to their age, the availability of a blood gas analysis after arrival at the emergency room, data availability in the trauma registry, and the modality of arrival in the ED. The dominantly administered pre-hospital fluid was normal saline. No association between the type of fluid administered during the pre-hospital phase and the presence of hyperchloremic acidosis in the ED was observed.
Nuclear PTEN Regulates Thymidylate Biosynthesis in Human Prostate Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Loh Zoe N. , Wang Mu-En , Wan Changxin , Asara John M. , Ji Zhicheng , Chen Ming
Published: August 2023

The phosphatase and tensin homologue deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN) tumor suppressor governs a variety of biological processes, including metabolism, by acting on distinct molecular targets in different subcellular compartments. In the cytosol, inactive PTEN can be recruited to the plasma membrane where it dimerizes and functions as a lipid phosphatase to regulate metabolic processes mediated by the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT/mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) pathway. However, the metabolic regulation of PTEN in the nucleus remains undefined. Here, using a gain-of-function approach to targeting PTEN to the plasma membrane and nucleus, we show that nuclear PTEN contributes to pyrimidine metabolism, in particular de novo thymidylate (dTMP) biosynthesis. PTEN appears to regulate dTMP biosynthesis through interaction with methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase 1 (MTHFD1), a key enzyme that generates 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate, a cofactor required for thymidylate synthase (TYMS) to catalyze deoxyuridylate (dUMP) into dTMP. Our findings reveal a nuclear function for PTEN in controlling dTMP biosynthesis and may also have implications for targeting nuclear-excluded PTEN prostate cancer cells with antifolate drugs.
Updated Strategy and Scope of Metrology
Authors: Haitjema Han
Published: August 2023

Our journal ‘Metrology’ has been up and running for a few years now, with interesting and ground-breaking publications covering the wide field that the concept of ‘metrology’ encompasses [...]
Improving Performance and Breakdown Voltage in Normally-Off GaN Recessed Gate MIS-HEMTs Using Atomic Layer Etching and Gate Field Plate for High-Power Device Applications
Authors: Liu An-Chen , Tu Po-Tsung , Chen Hsin-Chu , Lai Yung-Yu , Yeh Po-Chun , Kuo Hao-Chung
Published: August 2023

A typical method for normally-off operation, the metal–insulator–semiconductor-high electron mobility transistor (MIS-HEMT) has been investigated. Among various approaches, gate recessed MIS-HEMT have demonstrated a high gate voltage sweep and low leakage current characteristics. Despite their high performance, obtaining low-damage techniques in gate recess processing has so far proven too challenging. In this letter, we demonstrate a high current density and high breakdown down voltage of a MIS-HEMT with a recessed gate by the low damage gate recessed etching of atomic layer etching (ALE) technology. After the remaining 3.7 nm of the AlGaN recessed gate was formed, the surface roughness (Ra of 0.40 nm) was almost the same as the surface without ALE (no etching) as measured by atomic force microscopy (AFM). Furthermore, the devices demonstrate state-of-the-art characteristics with a competitive maximum drain current of 608 mA/mm at a VG of 6 V and a threshold voltage of +2.0 V. The devices also show an on/off current ratio of 109 and an off-state hard breakdown voltage of 1190 V. The low damage of ALE technology was introduced into the MIS-HEMT with the recessed gate, which effectively reduced trapping states at the interface to obtain the low on-resistance (Ron) of 6.8 Ω·mm and high breakdown voltage performance.
Editorial for the Beyond Moore’s Law: Hardware Specialization and Advanced System on Chip
Authors: Yang Xiaokun
Published: August 2023

In the absence of a new transistor technology to replace CMOS, design specialization has emerged as one of the most immediate options for achieving high-performance computing [...]
CRISPR-Cas-Based Adaptive Immunity Mediates Phage Resistance in Periodontal Red Complex Pathogens
Authors: Yadalam Pradeep Kumar , Arumuganainar Deepavalli , Anegundi Raghavendra Vamsi , Shrivastava Deepti , Alftaikhah Sultan Abdulkareem Ali , Almutairi Haifa Ali , Alobaida Muhanad Ali , Alkaberi Abdullah Ahmed , Srivastava Kumar Chandan
Published: August 2023

Periodontal diseases are polymicrobial immune–inflammatory diseases that can severely destroy tooth-supporting structures. The critical bacteria responsible for this destruction include red complex bacteria such as Porphoromonas gingivalis, Tanerella forsythia and Treponema denticola. These organisms have developed adaptive immune mechanisms against bacteriophages/viruses, plasmids and transposons through clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) and their associated proteins (Cas). The CRISPR-Cas system contributes to adaptive immunity, and this acquired genetic immune system of bacteria may contribute to moderating the microbiome of chronic periodontitis. The current research examined the role of the CRISPR-Cas system of red complex bacteria in the dysbiosis of oral bacteriophages in periodontitis. Whole-genome sequences of red complex bacteria were obtained and investigated for CRISPR using the CRISPR identification tool. Repeated spacer sequences were analyzed for homologous sequences in the bacteriophage genome and viromes using BLAST algorithms. The results of the BLAST spacer analysis for T. denticola spacers had a 100% score (e value with a bacillus phage), and the results for T. forsthyia and P. gingivalis had a 56% score with a pectophage and cellulophage (e value: 0.21), respectively. The machine learning model of the identified red complex CRISPR sequences predicts with area an under the curve (AUC) accuracy of 100 percent, indicating phage inhibition. These results infer that red complex bacteria could significantly inhibit viruses and phages with CRISPR immune sequences. Therefore, the role of viruses and bacteriophages in modulating sub-gingival bacterial growth in periodontitis is limited or questionable.
Antibacterial Properties of Methanolic Leaf Extracts of Melia azedarach L. against Gram-Positive and Gram-Negative Pathogenic Bacteria
Authors: Touzout Soraya Naila , Merghni Abderrahmen , Laouani Aicha , Boukhibar Halima , Alenazy Rawaf , Alobaid Abdulmohsen , Alenazy Mustafa , Ben-Attia Mossadok , Saguem Khaled , El-Bok Safia
Published: August 2023

Melia azedarach L., a Meliaceae family tree, is widely used in traditional folkloric medicine for its pharmaceutical properties. In the present study, we investigated the phytochemical composition of four methanolic leaf extracts of M. azedarach of various origins (Algeria and Tunisia) using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The antibacterial efficacy and mechanisms of action against Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogenic microorganisms were then evaluated. Our findings revealed a presence of phenolic acids and flavonoids, such as gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, hyperoside, isoquercetin, quercetin, and isorhamnetin both in Algerian and Tunisian localities, with an abundance of phenolic acids compared to flavonoids. Additionally, the studied extracts exhibit a broad spectrum of antibacterial activities, with MIC values ranging from 31.25 mg/mL to 125 mg/mL. Methanolic leaf extracts of M. azedarach from Algeria exhibited more potent biofilm eradication, with a percentage of inhibition reaching 72.17% against the S. aureus strain. Furthermore, inhibitory concentrations of tested substances, particularly the extract from the Relizane area, were capable of disrupting the membrane integrity of the treated bacteria as well as producing oxidative stress through ROS generation. Likewise, our results reveal that plant extract induces lipid peroxidation by raising MDA levels in comparison to untreated cells, particularly with the plant extract of Blida. M. azedarach extracts also reduced the synthesis of antioxidant enzymes (CAT and SOD). Our findings illustrate that M. azedarach remains a plant with significant antibacterial potential and distinct mechanisms of action that are closely related to the origins of this specimen.
Altered Urine Microbiome in Male Children and Adolescents with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Cho Yoon Jae , Shin Bokyoung , Lee Sung-Ha , Park Sangmin , Kim Yoon-Keun , Kim Jae-Jin , Kim Eunjoo
Published: August 2023

While interest in developing the human microbiome as a biomarker for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is increasing, there has been limited exploration in utilizing urine samples. In this study, we analysed urine microbiome profiles by extracting 16S ribosomal DNA from purified bacteria-derived extracellular membrane vesicles obtained from urine samples. Sequencing libraries were constructed by amplifying V3–V4 hypervariable regions sequenced using Illumina MiSeq. Profiles of male Korean children and adolescents with ADHD (n = 33) were compared with healthy sex-matched controls (n = 39). Statistically controlling for age, we found decreased alpha diversity in the urine bacteria of the ADHD group, as evidenced by reduced Shannon and Simpson indices (p < 0.05), and significant differences in beta diversity between the two groups (p < 0.001). The phyla Firmicutes and Actinobacteriota, as well as the genera Ralstonia and Afipia, were relatively more abundant in the ADHD group. The phylum Proteobacteria and the genera Corynebacterium and Peptoniphilus were more abundant in the control group. Notably, the genus Afipia exhibited significant correlations with the Child Behavior Checklist Attention Problems score and DSM-oriented ADHD subscale. This study is the first to propose the urine microbiome as a potential biomarker for pediatric ADHD.
Salinity-Induced Physiochemical Alterations to Enhance Lipid Content in Oleaginous Microalgae Scenedesmus sp. BHU1 via Two-Stage Cultivation for Biodiesel Feedstock
Authors: Singh Rahul Prasad , Yadav Priya , Kumar Ajay , Hashem Abeer , Avila-Quezada Graciela Dolores , Abd_Allah Elsayed Fathi , Gupta Rajan Kumar
Published: August 2023

In the recent past, various microalgae have been considered a renewable energy source for biofuel production, and their amount and extent can be enhanced by applying certain types of stress including salinity. Although microalgae growing under salinity stress result in a higher lipid content, they simultaneously reduce in growth and biomass output. To resolve this issue, the physiochemical changes in microalgae Scenedesmus sp. BHU1 have been assessed through two-stage cultivation. In stage-I, the maximum carbohydrate and lipid contents (39.55 and 34.10%) were found at a 0.4 M NaCl concentration, while in stage-II, the maximum carbohydrate and lipid contents (42.16 and 38.10%) were obtained in the 8-day-old culture. However, under increased salinity, Scenedesmus sp. BHU1 exhibited a decrease in photosynthetic attributes, including Chl-a, Chl-b, Fv/Fm, Y(II), Y(NPQ), NPQ, qP, qL, qN, and ETRmax but increased Y(NO) and carotenoids content. Apart from physiological attributes, osmoprotectants, stress biomarkers, and nonenzymatic antioxidants were also studied to elucidate the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) facilitated lipid synthesis. Furthermore, elemental and mineral ion analysis of microalgal biomass was performed to evaluate the biomass quality for biofuel and cell homeostasis. Based on fluorometry analysis, we found the maximum neutral lipids in the 8-day-old grown culture at stage-II in Scenedesmus sp. BHU1. Furthermore, the use of Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy analyses confirmed the presence of higher levels of hydrocarbons and triacylglycerides (TAGs) composed of saturated fatty acids (SFAs) and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) in the 8-day-old culture. Therefore, Scenedesmus sp. BHU1 can be a promising microalga for potential biodiesel feedstock.
Detection of Cyclomodulin CNF-1 Toxin-Producing Strains of Escherichia coli in Pig Kidneys at a Slaughterhouse
Authors: Herrera-Vázquez Arturo , Arellano-Aranda Rebeca , Hernández-Cueto Daniel , Rodríguez-Miranda Esmeralda , López-Briones Sergio , Hernández-Luna Marco Antonio
Published: August 2023

Food is often contaminated with Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria strains, which have been associated with different diseases, including urinary tract infections. The consumption of meat by humans is a potential route of transmission of antimicrobial resistance, and food-producing animals have been associated as a major reservoir of resistant bacterial strains. The aim of this study was to determine the presence of the E. coli strains producing the CNF-1 toxin in pig kidneys. Pig kidneys were collected from a Mexican slaughterhouse and classified according to their coloration into reddish kidneys (RK) and yellowish kidneys (YK). A tissue sample from each kidney was processed for histological analysis, the presence of E. coli was determined by conventional PCR assay, and the CNF-1 toxin was detected by both conventional PCR and Western blotting. Herein, an inflammatory cell infiltrate was found in all collected kidneys, regardless of macroscopic differences. Surprisingly, E. coli and the CNF-1 toxin were detected in all kidney samples. We clearly demonstrate contamination by CNF-1 toxin-producing E. coli in pork kidneys from a slaughterhouse, even in those without apparent damage. This suggests that pork may serve as a reservoir for pathogens, representing an important risk to human health.
The Interplay between Microbiota and Human Complex Traits
Authors: Veschetti Laura , Treccani Mirko , Malerba Giovanni
Published: August 2023

Microorganisms have been one of the most influential drivers propelling some of the greatest environmental and evolutionary changes in the landscape and biology of the entire planet [...]
Extracts of Talaromyces purpureogenus Strains from Apis mellifera Bee Bread Inhibit the Growth of Paenibacillus spp. In Vitro
Authors: Vocadlova Katerina , Lüddecke Tim , Patras Maria A. , Marner Michael , Hartwig Christoph , Benes Karel , Matha Vladimir , Mraz Petr , Schäberle Till F. , Vilcinskas Andreas
Published: August 2023

Honey bees coexist with fungi that colonize hive surfaces and pollen. Some of these fungi are opportunistic pathogens, but many are beneficial species that produce antimicrobial compounds for pollen conservation and the regulation of pathogen populations. In this study, we tested the in vitro antimicrobial activity of Talaromyces purpureogenus strains isolated from bee bread against Paenibacillus alvei (associated with European foulbrood disease) and three Aspergillus species that cause stonebrood disease. We found that methanol extracts of T. purpureogenus strains B18 and B195 inhibited the growth of P. alvei at a concentration of 0.39 mg/mL. Bioactivity-guided dereplication revealed that the activity of the crude extracts correlated with the presence of diketopiperazines, a siderophore, and three unknown compounds. We propose that non-pathogenic fungi such as Talaromyces spp. and their metabolites in bee bread could be an important requirement to prevent disease. Agricultural practices involving the use of fungicides can disrupt the fungal community and thus negatively affect the health of bee colonies.
Evaluation of the Gemological Properties of Datolites from the Campotrera Deposit in the Northern Apennines (Italy)
Authors: Marinoni Luigi , Caucia Franca , Gilio Mattia , Scacchetti Maurizio
Published: August 2023

This work investigates the gemological properties of the datolite from the famous field of Campotrera near Reggio Emilia in Italy, for a possible commercial use in the market. This mineral occurs in widespread multi-centimeter veins, together with calcite and prehnite, within polygenic breccias in basaltic ophiolites. The most common form for this datolite is the double wedge with a prism (110) and a pinacoid (001). The gems obtained are mixed or carré cut, colorless or salmon pink, transparent, with a vitreous luster and weight between 1 to 5 carats. They have high brilliance, transparency and birefringence, glassy luster, absence of cleavage. The major chromophore is probably Fe, which occurs as inclusion of hematite and ilmenite. Raman investigations highlighted different fluid inclusions. The primary are randomly distributed or, in some cases, follow the growth zones, while the secondary form aligned tracks along the microcracks. Fluid inclusions can be biphasic and made up by liquid + gas (L + G), generally >10 mm in size, and more rarely, monophasic, composed only by liquid (L) generally <10 mm. The gems extracted from the rough sample are very valuable but their delicacy requires attention in the cutting and preparation of the jewels.
Use of Pb2+ as a Selective Activator in Selective Flotation Separation of Specularite, Aegirine, and Chlorite: A DFT Study
Authors: Huangfu Mingzhu , Sun Ruofan , Xu Luyi , Deng Jiushuai , Zhang Xi , Liu Jixing , Qin Guanglin
Published: August 2023

Despite being one of the main sources of iron, specularite is often associated with gangue minerals such as aegirine and chlorite. Flotation separation is challenging in the mineral processing industry because of the similar surface properties of specularite, aegirine, and chlorite. This study investigates the role and selective activation mechanism of Pb2+ in the flotation separation of specularite, aegirine, and chlorite using micro-flotation experiments, solution chemistry calculations, zeta potential analysis, and the density functional theory (DFT). The results of the micro-flotation experiments show that the addition of lead ions can significantly improve the floatability of specularite, but has little impact on the floatability of aegirine and chlorite. Additionally, the solution chemistry calculations results show that PbOH+ is the main component of selectively activated specularite. The zeta potential analysis shows that Pb2+ is more inclined to adsorption on the surface of specularite, and that more collectors are adsorbed on the surface of specularite after the addition of Pb2+. Finally, the DFT calculations show that different chemical bonds are formed during the interaction between CuOH+ and the mineral surface, resulting in different adsorption energies.
Microscopic Pore Structure Characteristics and Fluid Mobility in Tight Reservoirs: A Case Study of the Chang 7 Member in the Western Xin’anbian Area of the Ordos Basin, China
Authors: Wei Qinlian , Zhang Huifang , Han Yonglin , Guo Wenjie , Xiao Ling
Published: August 2023

This research addresses the limited understanding of movable fluid occurrence characteristics in the Chang 7 reservoir by employing mercury injection capillary pressure, constant-rate mercury injections, and nuclear magnetic resonance methods. This study investigates the microscopic pore structure characteristics and movable fluids in the tight reservoir of the western Xin’an region, located in the Ordos Basin. The finding reveals that as permeability decreases, the distribution of the throat radius becomes more concentrated in the low-value area, resulting in a narrow distribution range with high curve peaks. Conversely, with an increasing permeability, the distribution range expands towards the high-value area while the curve peak decreases. This research underscores the significance of the throat radius, especially the main flow throat radius, in constraining the permeability of rock samples. Furthermore, this study highlights a stronger correlation between permeability and movable fluid saturation than porosity. This finding emphasizes the importance of considering movable fluid saturation when assessing reservoir characteristics. Notably, the throat radius plays a crucial role in influencing the occurrence characteristics of movable fluids, with a smaller throat radii posing hindrances to fluid flow in the reservoir. Additionally, the presence of clay minerals in the reservoir leads to pore segmentation and increased fluid flow resistance, ultimately reducing the saturation of movable fluids. I must be understood that these factors are essential for developing and producing reservoirs with similar characteristics. In conclusion, the insights gained from this study hold considerable theoretical value and provide essential references for developing and producing reservoirs with tight characteristics, particularly in the western Xin’an region of the Ordos Basin.
The Effects of Chloride on the High-Temperature Pressure Oxidation of Chalcopyrite: Some Insights from Batch Tests—Part 1: Leach Chemistry
Authors: McDonald Robbie G.
Published: August 2023

The complete reaction of chalcopyrite at ≥220 °C under pressure oxidation conditions (10 or 20% w/w pulp density, PO2 700 kPa) is a clean, near complete process, yielding high copper extractions (~99%) in an acidic leach liquor composed of dissolved metal sulphates, when high-quality process water is employed. However, when the process water contains chloride ions, here 3–100 g/L, although the copper extraction rate is enhanced, complete oxidation of sulphur under batch processing conditions is delayed. Chloride addition, therefore, appears to favour an oxidation mechanism that liberates cupric ions and preferentially forms elemental sulphur over sulphate. This provides evidence for the decoupling of the copper extraction and sulphate formation reactions. Increasing the reaction temperature, here to 245 °C, increases the rate of sulphuric acid formation and decreases the iron concentration in the leach liquor. The study also examines the effects of various upfront acid and other salt additions upon copper extraction. Added sulphuric acid was shown to slow the reaction, whereas salts such a cupric chloride and sodium sulphate had small effects on the rate and extent of copper extraction.
Thermal Decomposition of Siderite and Characterization of the Decomposition Products under O2 and CO2 Atmospheres
Authors: Kądziołka-Gaweł Mariola , Nowak Jacek , Szubka Magdalena , Klimontko Joanna , Wojtyniak Marcin
Published: August 2023

Siderite (FeCO3) is an iron-bearing carbonate mineral that is the most abundant sedimentary iron formation on Earth. Mineralogical alteration of four siderite samples annealed at temperatures 200 °C, 300 °C, 400 °C, 500 °C, 750 °C, and 1000 °C in an O2 and a CO2 atmosphere were investigated using such tools as X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), the X-ray fluorescence (XRF) method, differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis (DSC/TGA), and Mössbauer spectroscopy measurements. The decomposition of three siderite samples with similar iron content in the oxygen atmosphere took place in the temperature range of 340–607 °C. This process begins at approximately ~100 °C higher under a reducing atmosphere, but it is completed just above 600 °C, which is a temperature comparable to decomposition in an oxidizing atmosphere. These processes are shifted toward higher temperatures for the fourth sample with the lowest iron but the highest magnesium content. Magnetite, hematite, and maghemite are products of siderite decomposition after annealing in the oxygen atmosphere in the temperature range 300–500 °C, whereas hematite is the main component of the sample detected after annealing at 750 °C and 1000 °C. Magnetite is the main product of siderite decomposition under the CO2 atmosphere. However, hematite, maghemite, wüstite, and olivine were also present in the samples after annealing above 500 °C in this atmosphere.
Graphene Scaffolds: A Striking Approach to Combat Dermatophytosis
Authors: Misra Shashi Kiran , Pandey Himanshu , Patil Sandip , Virmani Tarun , Virmani Reshu , Kumar Girish , Alhalmi Abdulsalam , Noman Omar M. , Alshahrani Saad S. , Mothana Ramzi A.
Published: August 2023

Exclusive physicochemical and biological properties of carbon allotrope graphene have attracted the peer attention of researchers for the synthesis and development of newer topical remedies including films, scaffolds, microspheres, and hydrogels. Here, graphene nanoplatelets (GN) were embedded into a different ratio of polymeric ERL100/ERS100 solution and fabricated in the form of a scaffold through the electrospinning process. FTIR spectra displayed characteristic similar peaks present both in GN and GN-loaded scaffold owing to the compatibility of GN and polymeric mixture. XRD curve revealed a distinct GN peak at nearly 26° whereas from DSC/TGA thermal stability was observed between polymers and graphene nanoplatelets. FESEM images showed ultrathin architecture of GN-loaded scaffold in a range of 280 ± 90 nm. The fabricated scaffold exhibited hydrophilicity (contact angle 48.8 ± 2.8°) and desirable swelling index (646% in skin pH media) which were desired criteria for the scaffold for topical application. In vitro, antifungal activity was conducted through the broth microdilution method against different virulent dermatophytes i.e., Microsporum gypseum, M. canis, M. fulvum, and Trychophyton rubrum. For in vivo evaluation, T. rubrum inoculum was applied on the dorsal surface of each group of Swiss albino mice, and the degree and intensity of mycelial growth or erythema on skin surfaces was visually investigated. The study depicted complete signs of cure after 14 days of application of G3-loaded scaffold on the infected dorsal site. Hence graphene-loaded scaffold represented a possible alternative for the treatment of topical fungal infections caused by dermatophytes.
Transferrin-Decorated PLGA Nanoparticles Loaded with an Organoselenium Compound as an Innovative Approach to Sensitize MDR Tumor Cells: An In Vitro Study Using 2D and 3D Cell Models
Authors: Macedo Letícia Bueno , Nogueira-Librelotto Daniele Rubert , Mathes Daniela , Pieta Taís Baldissera , Mainardi Pillat Micheli , Rosa Raquel Mello da , Rodrigues Oscar Endrigo Dorneles , Vinardell Maria Pilar , Rolim Clarice Madalena Bueno
Published: August 2023

Multidrug resistance (MDR) is the main challenge in cancer treatment. In this sense, we designed transferrin (Tf)-conjugated PLGA nanoparticles (NPs) containing an organoselenium compound as an alternative to enhance the efficacy of cancer therapy and sensitize MDR tumor cells. Cytotoxicity studies were performed on different sensitive tumor cell lines and on an MDR tumor cell line, and the Tf-conjugated NPs presented significantly higher antiproliferative activity than the nontargeted counterparts in all tested cell lines. Due to the promising antitumor activity of the Tf-decorated NPs, further studies were performed using the MDR cells (NCI/ADR-RES cell line) comparatively to one sensitive cell line (HeLa). The cytotoxicity of NPs was evaluated in 3D tumor spheroids and, similarly to the results achieved in the 2D assays, the Tf-conjugated NPs were more effective at reducing the spheroid’s growth. The targeted Tf-NPs were also able to inhibit tumor cell migration, presented a higher cell internalization and induced a greater number of apoptotic events in both cell lines. Therefore, these findings evidenced the advantages of Tf-decorated NPs over the nontargeted counterparts, with the Tf-conjugated NPs containing an organoselenium compound representing a promising drug delivery system to overcome MDR and enhance the efficacy of cancer therapy.
Hybrid Silicon Nitride Photonic Integrated Circuits Covered by Single-Walled Carbon Nanotube Films
Authors: Komrakova Sophia , An Pavel , Kovalyuk Vadim , Golikov Alexander , Gladush Yury , Mkrtchyan Aram , Chermoshentsev Dmitry , Krasnikov Dmitry , Nasibulin Albert , Goltsman Gregory
Published: August 2023

The integration of low-dimensional materials with optical waveguides presents promising opportunities for enhancing light manipulation in passive photonic circuits. In this study, we investigate the potential of aerosol-synthesized single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) films for silicon nitride photonic circuits as a basis for developing integrated optics devices. Specifically, by measuring the optical response of SWCNT-covered waveguides, we retrieve the main SWCNT film parameters, such as absorption, nonlinear refractive, and thermo-optic coefficients, and we demonstrate the enhancement of all-optical wavelength conversion and the photoresponse with a 1.2 GHz bandwidth.
The Shock-Induced Deformation and Spallation Failure of Bicrystal Copper with a Nanoscale Helium Bubble via Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Zhu Qi , Shao Jianli , Wang Pei
Published: August 2023

Both the nanoscale helium (He) bubble and grain boundaries (GBs) play important roles in the dynamic mechanical behavior of irradiated nanocrystalline materials. Using molecular dynamics simulations, we study the shock-induced deformation and spallation failure of bicrystal copper with a nanoscale He bubble. Two extreme loading directions (perpendicular or parallel to the GB plane) and various impact velocities (0.5–2.5 km/s) are considered. Our results reveal that the He bubble shows hindrance to the propagation of shock waves at lower impact velocities but will accelerate shock wave propagation at higher impact velocities due to the local compression wave generated by the collapse of the He bubble. The parallel loading direction is found to have a greater effect on He bubble deformation during shock compression. The He bubble will slightly reduce the spall strength of the material at lower impact velocities but has a limited effect on the spallation process, which is dominated by the evolution of the GB. At lower impact velocities, the mechanism of spall damage is dominated by the cleavage fracture along the GB plane for the perpendicular loading condition but dominated by the He bubble expansion and void growth for the parallel loading condition. At higher impact velocities, micro-spallation occurs for both loading conditions, and the effects of GBs and He bubbles can be ignored.
In Search of a Function for the N6-Methyladenosine in Epitranscriptome, Autophagy and Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Suga Naoko , Ikeda Yuka , Yoshikawa Sayuri , Taniguchi Kurumi , Sawamura Haruka , Matsuda Satoru
Published: August 2023

Changes in epitranscriptome with N6-methyladenine (m6A) modification could be involved in the development of multiple diseases, which might be a prevalent modification of messenger RNAs (mRNAs) in eukaryotes. The m6A modification might be performed through the action of methyltransferases, demethylases, and methylation-binding proteins. Importantly, the m6A methylation may be associated with various neurological disorders including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), depression, aging-related diseases, and/or aging itself. In addition, the m6A methylation might functionally regulate the eukaryotic transcriptome by influencing the splicing, export, subcellular localization, translation, stability, and decay of mRNAs. Neurodegenerative diseases may possess a wide variety of phenotypes, depending on the neurons that degenerate on occasion. Interestingly, an increasing amount of evidence has indicated that m6A modification could modulate the expression of autophagy-related genes and promote autophagy in neuronal cells. Oxidative stresses such as reactive oxygen species (ROS) could stimulate the m6A RNA methylation, which may also be related to the regulation of autophagy and/or the development of neurodegenerative diseases. Both m6A modification and autophagy could also play critical roles in regulating the health condition of neurons. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of the m6A and autophagy relationship in human diseases may benefit in developing therapeutic strategies in the future. This paper reviews advances in the understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of m6A modification in the occurrence and development of neurodegenerative diseases and/or aging, discussing the possible therapeutic procedures related to mechanisms of m6A RNA methylation and autophagy.
FTD/ALS Type 7-Associated Thr104Asn Mutation of CHMP2B Blunts Neuronal Process Elongation, and Is Recovered by Knockdown of Arf4, the Golgi Stress Regulator
Authors: Shirai Remina , Cho Mizuka , Isogai Mikinori , Fukatsu Shoya , Okabe Miyu , Okawa Maho , Miyamoto Yuki , Torii Tomohiro , Yamauchi Junji
Published: August 2023

Frontotemporal dementia and/or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis type 7 (FTD/ALS7) is an autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the onset of FTD and/or ALS, mainly in adulthood. Patients with some types of mutations, including the Thr104Asn (T104N) mutation of charged multivesicular body protein 2B (CHMP2B), have predominantly ALS phenotypes, whereas patients with other mutations have predominantly FTD phenotypes. A few mutations result in patients having both phenotypes approximately equally; however, the reason why phenotypes differ depending on the position of the mutation is unknown. CHMP2B comprises one part of the endosomal sorting complexes required for transport (ESCRT), specifically ESCRT-III, in the cytoplasm. We describe here, for the first time, that CHMP2B with the T104N mutation inhibits neuronal process elongation in the N1E-115 cell line, a model line undergoing neuronal differentiation. This inhibitory phenotype was accompanied by changes in marker protein expression. Of note, CHMP2B with the T104N mutation, but not the wild-type form, was preferentially accumulated in the Golgi body. Of the four major Golgi stress signaling pathways currently known, the pathway through Arf4, the small GTPase, was specifically upregulated in cells expressing CHMP2B with the T104N mutation. Conversely, knockdown of Arf4 with the cognate small interfering (si)RNA recovered the neuronal process elongation inhibited by the T104N mutation. These results suggest that the T104N mutation of CHMP2B inhibits morphological differentiation by triggering Golgi stress signaling, revealing a possible therapeutic molecular target for recovering potential molecular and cellular phenotypes underlying FTD/ALS7.
Vitamin D Supplementation Influences Ultramarathon-Induced Changes in Serum Amino Acid Levels, Tryptophan/Branched-Chain Amino Acid Ratio, and Arginine/Asymmetric Dimethylarginine Ratio
Authors: Mieszkowski Jan , Brzezińska Paulina , Stankiewicz Błażej , Kochanowicz Andrzej , Zolodkiewicz Katarzyna , Niespodziński Bartłomiej , Reczkowicz Joanna , Kowalik Tomasz , Waldziński Tomasz , Antosiewicz Jędrzej
Published: August 2023

Exercise affects serum levels of amino acids and their metabolites, with important metabolic consequences. Since vitamin D impacts skeletal muscle protein degradation, we hypothesised that it would also impact exercise-induced changes in serum amino acid levels and the serum levels of arginine metabolites, influencing the body’s ability to synthesise NO. Accordingly, we analysed the effect of a single high-dose vitamin D supplementation on the serum levels of various amino acids in ultramarathon runners. Thirty-five male amateur runners were assigned to the supplemented group, administered 150,000 IU vitamin D in vegetable oil 24 h before the run (n = 16), or the control (placebo) group (n = 19). Blood was sampled 24 h before, immediately after, and 24 h after the run. Changes in the serum levels of some amino acids were distinct in the two groups. The asymmetric dimethyl arginine levels were significantly decreased immediately after the run and increased 24 h later and were not affected by the supplementation. The symmetric dimethyl arginine levels were increased after the run in both groups but were lower in the supplemented group than in the placebo group 24 h after the run. The dimethylamine levels increased significantly in the supplemented group as compared to the placebo group. In conclusion, vitamin D impacts exercise-induced changes in serum amino acids and methylated arginine metabolites.
Impact on Fecal Microbiota and Health-Related Markers of an Intervention Focused on Improving Eating Behavior in People at Risk of Food Insecurity
Authors: Zapico Aida , Arboleya Silvia , Salazar Nuria , Perillán Carmen , Ruiz-Saavedra Sergio , de los Reyes-Gavilán Clara G. , Gueimonde Miguel , González Sonia
Published: August 2023

Non-communicable diseases are particularly prevalent among low-income individuals and are associated with the consumption of processed foods, fat, and sugars. This work aims to evaluate the impacts of a nutrition education intervention for low socio-economic individuals on sensory perception, health-related parameters and gut microbiota. Twenty low-income adults underwent a 4-week intervention. Dietary information (three 24 h recalls), detection thresholds and discrimination scores (salty and sweet), and severity of depressive symptoms (Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II)) were collected. Fecal microbial composition and short chain fatty acids were determined by 16S ribosomal RNA-gene sequencing and gas chromatography, respectively. After the intervention, 35% of subjects presented higher compliance with dietary recommendations, increased consumption of vegetables and lignans and reduced consumption of processed meats and nitrosamines, together with depleted levels of Actinomycetota. Higher discrimination for salty and sweet and lower BDI-II scores were also obtained. This nutrition education intervention entailed changes in dietary intake towards healthier food options, reduced potentially carcinogenic compounds and improved scores for discrimination and severity of depressive symptoms. The confirmation of these results in future studies would enable the design of strategic policies contributing to the optimal nutrition of materially deprived families through affordable healthy plant-based interventions.
Correction: Tang et al. Vitamin K2 Modulates Mitochondrial Dysfunction Induced by 6-Hydroxydopamine in SH-SY5Y Cells via Mitochondrial Quality-Control Loop. Nutrients 2022, 14, 1504
Authors: Tang Hengfang , Zheng Zhiming , Wang Han , Wang Li , Zhao Genhai , Wang Peng
Published: August 2023

In the original publication [...]