bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mass Spectrometric Identification of BSA Covalently Captured onto a Chip for Atomic Force Microscopy
Authors: Gordeeva Arina I. , Valueva Anastasia A. , Ershova Maria O. , Rybakova Elizaveta E. , Shumov Ivan D. , Kozlov Andrey F. , Ziborov Vadim S. , Zavialova Maria G. , Zgoda Victor G. , Ivanov Yuri D. , Archakov Alexander I. , Pleshakova Tatyana O.
Published: May 2023

Mass spectrometry (MS) is one of the main techniques for protein identification. Herein, MS has been employed for the identification of bovine serum albumin (BSA), which was covalently immobilized on the surface of a mica chip intended for investigation by atomic force microscopy (AFM). For the immobilization, two different types of crosslinkers have been used: 4-benzoylbenzoic acid N-succinimidyl ester (SuccBB) and dithiobis(succinimidyl propionate) (DSP). According to the data obtained by using an AFM-based molecular detector, the SuccBB crosslinker was more efficient in BSA immobilization than the DSP. The type of crosslinker used for protein capturing has been found to affect the results of MS identification. The results obtained herein can be applied in the development of novel systems intended for the highly sensitive analysis of proteins with molecular detectors.
Transcriptome Profiling of Circulating Tumor Cells to Predict Clinical Outcomes in Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer
Authors: Groen Levi , Kloots Iris , Englert David , Seto Kelly , Estafanos Lana , Smith Paul , Verhaegh Gerald W. , Mehra Niven , Schalken Jack A.
Published: May 2023

The clinical utility of circulating tumor cells (CTC) as a non-invasive multipurpose biomarker is broadly recognized. The earliest methods for enriching CTCs from whole blood rely on antibody-based positive selection. The prognostic utility of CTC enumeration using positive selection with the FDA-approved CellSearchTM system has been demonstrated in numerous studies. The capture of cells with specific protein phenotypes does not fully represent cancer heterogeneity and therefore does not realize the prognostic potential of CTC liquid biopsies. To avoid this selection bias, CTC enrichment based on size and deformability may provide better fidelity, i.e., facilitate the characterization of CTCs with any phenotype. In this study, the recently FDA-approved Parsortix® technology was used to enrich CTCs from prostate cancer (PCa) patients for transcriptome analysis using HyCEADTM technology. A tailored PCa gene panel allowed us to stratify metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) patients with clinical outcomes. In addition, our findings suggest that targeted CTC transcriptome profiling may be predictive of therapy response.
Cytogenetics Meets Genomics: Cytotaxonomy and Genomic Relationships among Color Variants of the Asian Arowana Scleropages formosus
Authors: Toma Gustavo A. , dos Santos Natália , dos Santos Rodrigo , Rab Petr , Kretschmer Rafael , Ezaz Tariq , Bertollo Luiz A. C. , Liehr Thomas , Porto-Foresti Fábio , Hatanaka Terumi , Tanomtong Alongklod , Utsunomia Ricardo , Cioffi Marcelo B.
Published: May 2023

Scleropages formosus (Osteoglossiformes, Teleostei) represents one of the most valued ornamental fishes, yet it is critically endangered due to overexploitation and habitat destruction. This species encompasses three major color groups that naturally occur in allopatric populations, but the evolutionary and taxonomic relationships of S. formosus color varieties remain uncertain. Here, we utilized a range of molecular cytogenetic techniques to characterize the karyotypes of five S. formosus color phenotypes, which correspond to naturally occurring variants: the red ones (Super Red); the golden ones (Golden Crossback and Highback Golden); the green ones (Asian Green and Yellow Tail Silver). Additionally, we describe the satellitome of S. formosus (Highback Golden) by applying a high-throughput sequencing technology. All color phenotypes possessed the same karyotype structure 2n = 50 (8m/sm + 42st/a) and distribution of SatDNAs, but different chromosomal locations of rDNAs, which were involved in a chromosome size polymorphism. Our results show indications of population genetic structure and microstructure differences in karyotypes of the color phenotypes. However, the findings do not clearly back up the hypothesis that there are discrete lineages or evolutionary units among the color phenotypes of S. formosus, but another case of interspecific chromosome stasis cannot be excluded.
Dietary Supplementation of Inulin Contributes to the Prevention of Estrogen Receptor-Negative Mammary Cancer by Alteration of Gut Microbial Communities and Epigenetic Regulations
Authors: Wu Huixin , Van Der Pol William J. , Dubois Laura G. , Morrow Casey D. , Tollefsbol Trygve O.
Published: May 2023

Breast cancer (BC) is among the most frequently diagnosed malignant cancers in women in the United States. Diet and nutrition supplementation are closely related to BC onset and progression, and inulin is commercially available as a health supplement to improve gut health. However, little is known with respect to inulin intake for BC prevention. We investigated the effect of an inulin-supplemented diet on the prevention of estrogen receptor-negative mammary carcinoma in a transgenic mouse model. Plasma short-chain fatty acids were measured, the gut microbial composition was analyzed, and the expression of proteins related to cell cycle and epigenetics-related genes was measured. Inulin supplementation greatly inhibited tumor growth and significantly delayed tumor latency. The mice that consumed inulin had a distinct microbiome and higher diversity of gut microbial composition compared to the control. The concentration of propionic acid in plasma was significantly higher in the inulin-supplemented group. The protein expression of epigenetic-modulating histone deacetylase 2 (Hdac2), Hdac8, and DNA methyltransferase 3b decreased. The protein expression of factors related to tumor cell proliferation and survival, such as Akt, phospho-PI3K, and NF-kB, also decreased with inulin administration. Furthermore, sodium propionate showed BC prevention effect in vivo through epigenetic regulations. These studies suggest that modulating microbial composition through inulin consumption may be a promising strategy for BC prevention.
Computational and Experimental Evaluation of the Immune Response of Neoantigens for Personalized Vaccine Design
Authors: Malaina Iker , Gonzalez-Melero Lorena , Martínez Luis , Salvador Aiala , Sanchez-Diez Ana , Asumendi Aintzane , Margareto Javier , Carrasco-Pujante Jose , Legarreta Leire , García María Asunción , Pérez-Pinilla Martín Blas , Izu Rosa , Martínez de la Fuente Ildefonso , Igartua Manoli , Alonso Santos , Hernandez Rosa Maria , Boyano María Dolores
Published: May 2023

In the last few years, the importance of neoantigens in the development of personalized antitumor vaccines has increased remarkably. In order to study whether bioinformatic tools are effective in detecting neoantigens that generate an immune response, DNA samples from patients with cutaneous melanoma in different stages were obtained, resulting in a total of 6048 potential neoantigens gathered. Thereafter, the immunological responses generated by some of those neoantigens ex vivo were tested, using a vaccine designed by a new optimization approach and encapsulated in nanoparticles. Our bioinformatic analysis indicated that no differences were found between the number of neoantigens and that of non-mutated sequences detected as potential binders by IEDB tools. However, those tools were able to highlight neoantigens over non-mutated peptides in HLA-II recognition (p-value 0.03). However, neither HLA-I binding affinity (p-value 0.08) nor Class I immunogenicity values (p-value 0.96) indicated significant differences for the latter parameters. Subsequently, the new vaccine, using aggregative functions and combinatorial optimization, was designed. The six best neoantigens were selected and formulated into two nanoparticles, with which the immune response ex vivo was evaluated, demonstrating a specific activation of the immune response. This study reinforces the use of bioinformatic tools in vaccine development, as their usefulness is proven both in silico and ex vivo.
Climate Change Impacts on the Potential Distribution Pattern of Osphya (Coleoptera: Melandryidae), an Old but Small Beetle Group Distributed in the Northern Hemisphere
Authors: Liu Tong , Liu Haoyu , Wang Yongjie , Yang Yuxia
Published: May 2023

Exploring the development of species distribution patterns under climate change is the basis of biogeography and macroecology. However, under the background of global climate change, few studies focus on how the distribution pattern and the range of insects have or will change in response to long-term climate change. An old but small, Northern-Hemisphere-distributed beetle group Osphya is an ideal subject to conduct the study in this aspect. Here, based on a comprehensive geographic dataset, we analyzed the global distribution pattern of Osphya using ArcGIS techniques, which declared a discontinuous and uneven distribution pattern across the USA, Europe, and Asia. Furthermore, we predicted the suitable habitats of Osphya under different climate scenarios via the MaxEnt model. The results showed that the high suitability areas were always concentrated in the European Mediterranean and the western coast of USA, while a low suitability exhibited in Asia. Moreover, by integrating the analyses of biogeography and habitat suitability, we inferred that the Osphya species conservatively prefer a warm, stable, and rainy climate, and they tend to expand towards higher latitude in response to the climate warming from the past to future. These results are helpful in exploring the species diversity and protection of Osphya.
Postoperative Delirium and Cognitive Dysfunction after General and Regional Anesthesia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Viderman Dmitriy , Nabidollayeva Fatima , Aubakirova Mina , Yessimova Dinara , Badenes Rafael , Abdildin Yerkin
Published: May 2023

Background: Perioperative disorders of neurocognitive function are a set of heterogeneous conditions, which include transient post-operative delirium (POD) and more prolonged post-operative cognitive dysfunction (POCD). Since the number of annually performed surgical procedures is growing, we should identify which type of anesthesia is safer for preserving neurocognitive function. The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of general anesthesia (GA) and regional anesthesia (RA) in patients undergoing surgical procedures under general anesthesia and regional anesthesia. Material and methods: We searched for randomized controlled studies, which studied post-operative cognitive outcomes after general and regional anesthesia in the adult patient population. Results: Thirteen articles with 3633 patients: the RA group consisted of 1823 patients, and the GA group of 1810 patients, who were selected for meta-analysis. The overall effect of the model shows no difference between these two groups in terms of risk for post-operative delirium. The result is insensitive to the exclusion of any study. There was no difference between RA and GA in terms of post-operative cognitive dysfunction. Conclusions: There was no statistically significant difference between GA and RA in the incidence of POD. There was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of POCD per-protocol analysis, psychomotor/attention tests (preoperative/baseline, post-operative), memory tests (postoperatively, follow up), mini-mental state examination score 24 h postoperatively, post-operative reaction time three months postoperatively, controlled oral word association test, and digit copying test. There were no differences in the incidence of POCD in general and regional anesthesia at one week postoperatively, three months postoperatively, or total events (one week or three months). The incidence of post-operative mortality also did not differ between two groups.
Ghrelin and Leptin Concentrations in Patients after SARS-CoV2 Infection
Authors: Kuliczkowska-Płaksej Justyna , Jawiarczyk-Przybyłowska Aleksandra , Zembska Agnieszka , Kolačkov Katarzyna , Syrycka Joanna , Kałużny Marcin , Polowczyk-Kawałko Beata , Kubicka Eliza , Bolanowski Marek
Published: May 2023

SARS-CoV2 infection can lead to severe cytokine storm especially in obese patients. Ghrelin acts not only as an appetite regulator but can also play a key role in the immune reaction. Leptin, secreted mainly by the white adipose tissue, can act as a pro-inflammatory cytokine. The crucial question is whether or not the cytokine storm in COVID-19 patients with obesity is linked to adipokine dysregulation. The aim of this study was to assess ghrelin and leptin concentrations in patients 6 months after SARS-CoV2 infection in comparison to a control group considering the influence of sex. The study group included 53 patients with a history of COVID-19 and 87 healthy subjects in the control group. Leptin and ghrelin concentrations as well as hormonal and biochemical parameters were measured. A significantly higher ghrelin concentration was observed in the COVID-19 group in comparison to the control group, with a statistically significant impact of sex on the relationship between COVID-19 and ghrelin concentration, which was lower in the males. No statistically significant differences in leptin concentration were observed between the groups. A significant negative correlation was observed between ghrelin and testosterone and morning cortisol levels in the COVID-19 group. The current study showed that ghrelin levels were significantly higher in patients 6 months after a mild course of SARS-CoV2 infection. To confirm the hypothetical protective role of ghrelin in the inflammatory process, it would be necessary to compare serum ghrelin levels between patients after mild and severe courses of COVID-19. Due to the small sample size and the lack of patients with a severe course of COVID-19, these observations need further investigation. There were no differences in leptin concentrations between the COVID-19 patients and the control group.
Prevalence of Clinical Signs and Symptoms of Temporomandibular Joint Disorders Registered in the EUROTMJ Database: A Prospective Study in a Portuguese Center
Authors: Ângelo David Faustino , Mota Beatriz , João Ricardo São , Sanz David , Cardoso Henrique José
Published: May 2023

Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMDs) are characterized by their multifactorial etiology and pathogenesis. A 3-year prospective study was conducted in a Portuguese TMDs department to study the prevalence of different TMDs signs and symptoms and their association with risk factors and comorbidities. Five hundred ninety-five patients were included using an online database: EUROTMJ. Most patients were female (80.50%), with a mean age of 38.20 ± 15.73 years. The main complaints were: (1) temporomandibular joint (TMJ) clicking (13.26%); (2) TMJ pain (12.49%); (3) masticatory muscle tension (12.15%). The main clinical findings were myalgia (74%), TMJ clicking (60–62%), and TMJ arthralgia (31–36%). Risk factors such as clenching (60%) and bruxism (30%) were positively associated with TMJ pain and myalgia. Orthodontic treatment (20%) and wisdom tooth removal (19%) were positively associated with TMJ clicking, while jaw trauma (6%), tracheal intubation (4%) and orthognathic surgery (1%) were positively associated with TMJ crepitus, limited mandibular range of motion, and TMJ pain, respectively. In total, 42.88% of TMDs patients had other associated chronic diseases, most of them were mental behavioral or neurodevelopmental disorders (33.76%), namely, anxiety (20%) and depression (13%). The authors also observed a positive association of mental disorders with the degree of TMJ pain and myalgia. The online database seems to be a relevant scientific instrument for healthcare providers who treat TMDs. The authors expect that the EUROTMJ database can serve as a milestone for other TMDs departments.
Shared Decision Making in Acute Pain Management in Patients with Opioid Use Disorder: A Scoping Review
Authors: Vu Peter D. , Malik Aila , Cohen A. Sarah , Bansal Vishal , Cowan Morgan R. , Blazek Gregory M. , Champagne-Langabeer Tiffany
Published: May 2023

The treatment of acute pain over the years has changed with increasing alternative therapies and increased scrutiny of opioid prescriptions. Shared Decision Making (SDM) has become a vital tool in increasing patient engagement and satisfaction in treatment decisions. SDM has been successfully implemented in the management of pain in a variety of settings; however, information regarding the use of SDM for treating acute pain in patients with a history of opioid use disorder (OUD) remains scarce. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR), we conducted a review to understand how SDM is used in acute pain management in patients with OUD. We searched Medline, Embase, CINAHL, and PsychInfo databases for relevant articles. Articles were screened and SDM outcomes of eligible articles were charted. The results were grouped by sub-theme based on a 1997 SDM model. There were three original research studies and one quality improvement study. The remaining articles were split evenly between reviews and reviews of clinical guidelines. Four themes emerged from the review: prior judgment and stigma related to OUD, trust and sharing of information, clinical tools, and interprofessional teams. This scoping review consolidated and expounded the current literature on SDM in the management of acute pain in patients with OUD. More work is needed to address prior judgments by both providers and patients and to build greater dialogue. Clinical tools may aid this process as well as the involvement of a multidisciplinary team.
Clinical Profiling and Biomarkers for Post-Operative Atrial Fibrillation Prediction in Patients Undergoing Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Iglesias-Álvarez Diego , Fu Xiaoran , Martínez-Cereijo José Manuel , Agra-Bermejo Rosa María , Veiras-Del Río Sonia , Selas-Cobos Salomé , Rial-Munin María Victoria , Eiras-Mariño María , Martínez-Salgado Adrián , Taboada-Muñiz Manuel , Reija-López Laura , Souaf Souhayla , García-Carro Javier , Fernández-González Ángel Luis , Adrio-Nazar Belén , González-Juanatey José Ramón , Eiras Sonia , Rodríguez-Mañero Moisés
Published: May 2023

Post-operative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is the most common arrhythmia in the post-operative period after cardiac surgery. We aim to investigate the main clinical, local, and/or peripheral biochemical and molecular predictors for POAF in patients undergoing coronary and/or valve surgery. Between August 2020 and September 2022, consecutive patients undergoing cardiac surgery without previous history of AF were studied. Clinical variables, plasma, and biological tissues (epicardial and subcutaneous fat) were obtained before surgery. Pre-operative markers associated with inflammation, adiposity, atrial stretch, and fibrosis were analyzed on peripheral and local samples with multiplex assay and real-time PCR. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed in order to identify the main predictors for POAF. Patients were followed-up until hospital discharge. Out of 123 consecutive patients without prior AF, 43 (34.9%) developed POAF during hospitalization. The main predictors were cardiopulmonary bypass time (odds ratio (OR) 1.008 (95% confidence interval (CI), 1.002–1.013), p = 0.005), and plasma pre-operative orosomucoid levels (OR 1.008 (1.206–5.761). After studying differences regarding sex, orosomucoid was the best predictor for POAF in women (OR 2.639 (95% CI, 1.455–4.788), p = 0.027) but not in men. The results support the pre-operative inflammation pathway as a factor involved in the risk of POAF, mainly in women.
Research on Seabed Sediment Classification Based on the MSC-Transformer and Sub-Bottom Profiler
Authors: Wang Han , Zhou Qingjie , Wei Shuo , Xue Xiangyang , Zhou Xinghua , Zhang Xiaobo
Published: May 2023

This paper proposed an MSC-Transformer model based on the Transformer’s neural network, which was applied to seabed sediment classification. The data came from about 2900 km2 of seabed area on the northern slope of the South China Sea. Using the submarine backscattering intensity and depth data obtained by the sub-bottom profiler, combined with latitude and longitude information, a seabed dataset of the slope area of the South China Sea was constructed. Moreover, using the MSC-Transformer, the accurate identification and judgment of sediment types such as calcareous bio-silt, calcareous bio-clay silt, silty sand, medium sand and gravel sand were realized. Compared with the conventional deep neural network CNN, RNN, etc., the model shows advantages when applied to the sediment dataset of the shallow sea slope region of the South China Sea. This confirms the feasibility and validity of the model and provides a reliable and accurate tool for seabed sediment classification in the field of marine science. The completeness and accuracy of the dataset and the good performance of the model provide a solid foundation for the scientificalness and practicability of the study.
Impacts of the Establishment of Biofoulants on Greek Aquaculture: Farmers’ Expert Knowledge
Authors: Tsotsios Dimitrios , Moutopoulos Dimitrios K. , Lattos Athanasios , Michaelidis Basile , Theodorou John A.
Published: May 2023

Ascidians’ bioaccumulation is frequently responsible for the massive growth of certain species, causing detrimental effects on aquaculture facilities. The goal of this study is to provide, for the first time in the Eastern Mediterranean, information on biofoulant species in Greek mussel farms over a long time scale and to describe the best management strategies that will reduce costs while preventing and controlling these biofoulants. An interview survey was conducted to assess mussel farmers’ expert judgment on non-endemic ascidians as well as their opinions on the magnitude of the invasion’s impacts. The results show that ascidians and, to a lesser extent, sponges exhibited the highest intensities in mussel farm units during the last 20 years, whereas gastropod invasion was limited and observed after 2015. Ascidians exhibited the most significant impact on the final product, whereas sponges showed a moderately negative impact, with reduced amounts of flesh being the most important effect. The cost of farming management only rose with ascidians and sponges and was mostly impacted by damages to maintenance and labor and, to a lesser extent, fuel. All invasive species affected the operational cost of production at a rate of 21–50%, which peaked from July to September. The above problems are increasingly aggravating in cases where farm units undergo production shutdown due to plankton bloom. Preventive management action against the establishment of biofoulants in Greek mussel aquaculture is of paramount importance.
Analysis of the Model Characteristics in the North Atlantic Simulated by the NEMO Model with Data Assimilation
Authors: Belyaev Konstantin , Kuleshov Andrey , Smirnov Ilya
Published: May 2023

The main aim of this work is to study the spatial–temporal variability of the model’s physical and spectral characteristics in the process of assimilation of observed ocean surface height data from the AVISO (Archiving, Validating and Interpolation Satellite Observation) archive in combination with the NEMO (Nucleus for European Modeling of the Ocean) ocean circulation model for a period of two months. For data assimilation, the GKF (Generalized Kalman filter) method, previously developed by the authors, is used. The purpose of this work is to study the spatial–temporal structure of the simulated characteristics using decomposition into eigenvalues and eigenvectors (Karhunen–Loeve decomposition method). The feature of the GKF method is the fact that the constructed Kalman weight matrix multiplied by the vector of observational data can be represented as a weighted sum of eigenvectors and eigenvalues (spectral characteristics of the matrix), which describe the spatial and temporal structure of corrections to the model. The main investigations are focused on the North Atlantic. Their variability in time and space is estimated in this study. Calculations of the main ocean characteristics, such as the surface height, temperature, salinity, and the current velocities on the surface and in the depths, both with and without assimilation of observational data, over a time interval of 60 days, were performed by using a high-performance computing system. The calculation results have shown that the main spatial variability of characteristics after data assimilation is consistent with the localization of the currents in the North Atlantic.
Phenotypic and Genotypic Characterization and Antifungal Susceptibility of Sporothrix schenckii sensu stricto Isolated from a Feline Sporotrichosis Outbreak in Bangkok, Thailand
Authors: Yingchanakiat Kanokporn , Limsivilai Orawan , Sunpongsri Supita , Niyomtham Waree , Lugsomya Kittitat , Yurayart Chompoonek
Published: May 2023

Sporotrichosis, an invasive fungal infection caused by Sporothrix schenckii, has emerged in Southeast Asia, affecting cats and posing a potential zoonotic risk to humans. We evaluated 38 feline sporotrichosis cases in and around Bangkok, Thailand, from 2017 to 2021. The isolates were phenotypically and genotypically characterized. The cats infected with sporotrichosis were mainly young adults, males, and domestic short hairs with uncontrolled outdoor access, and they lived in Bangkok. All isolates showed low thermotolerance and converted to the yeast phase at 35 °C. Based on the internal transcribed spacer region of rDNA sequences, our strains belonged to S. schenckii sensu stricto and clustered with clinical clade D. Based on the concatenated tree of calmodulin and beta-tubulin genes, five groups of S. schenckii were generated, and the monophyletic clade, Group II, of Thai strains was recognized. In vitro antifungal susceptibility testing demonstrated that the MIC50 of our isolates to amphotericin B, itraconazole, and posaconazole were within the limit of the species-specific epidemiological cutoff values, suggesting that the organisms were the wild type. Addressing the outbreak of feline sporotrichosis in Thailand by providing guidelines for diagnosis and effective treatment may help control the spread of disease and reduce the risk of cat-transmitted sporotrichosis to humans.
The Novel Effector Ue943 Is Essential for Host Plant Colonization by Ustilago esculenta
Authors: Wang Shuqing , Xia Wenqiang , Li Yani , Peng Yuyan , Zhang Yafen , Tang Jintian , Cui Haifeng , Qu Lisi , Yao Tongfu , Yu Zetao , Ye Zihong
Published: May 2023

The smut fungus Ustilago esculenta obligately parasitizes Zizania latifolia and induces smut galls at the stem tips of host plants. Previous research identified a putative secreted protein, Ue943, which is required for the biotrophic phase of U. esculenta but not for the saprophytic phase. Here, we studied the role of Ue943 during the infection process. Conserved homologs of Ue943 were found in smut fungi. Ue943 can be secreted by U. esculenta and localized to the biotrophic interface between fungi and plants. It is required at the early stage of colonization. The Ue943 deletion mutant caused reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and callose deposition in the host plant at 1 and 5 days post inoculation, which led to failed colonization. The virulence deficiency was restored by overexpressing gene Ue943 or Ue943:GFP. Transcriptome analysis further showed a series of changes in plant hormones following ROS production when the host plant was exposed to ΔUe943. We hypothesize that Ue943 might be responsible for ROS suppression or avoidance of recognition by the plant immune system. The mechanism underlying Ue943 requires further study to provide more insights into the virulence of smut fungi.
Establishment of a CRISPR/Cas9-Mediated Efficient Knockout System of Trichoderma hamatum T21 and Pigment Synthesis PKS Gene Knockout
Authors: Luo Ning , Li Zeyu , Ling Jian , Zhao Jianlong , Li Yan , Yang Yuhong , Mao Zhenchuan , Xie Bingyan , Li Huixia , Jiao Yang
Published: May 2023

Trichoderma hamatum is a filamentous fungus that serves as a biological control agent for multiple phytopathogens and as an important resource promising for fungicides. However, the lack of adequate knockout technologies has hindered gene function and biocontrol mechanism research of this species. This study obtained a genome assembly of T. hamatum T21, with a 41.4 Mb genome sequence comprising 8170 genes. Based on genomic information, we established a CRISPR/Cas9 system with dual sgRNAs targets and dual screening markers. CRISPR/Cas9 plasmid and donor DNA recombinant plasmid were constructed for disruption of the Thpyr4 and Thpks1 genes. The result indicates the consistency between phenotypic characterization and molecular identification of the knockout strains. The knockout efficiencies of Thpyr4 and Thpks1 were 100% and 89.1%, respectively. Moreover, sequencing revealed fragment deletions between dual sgRNA target sites or GFP gene insertions presented in knockout strains. The situations were caused by different DNA repair mechanisms, nonhomologous end joining (NHEJ), and homologous recombination (HR). Overall, we have successfully constructed an efficient and convenient CRISPR/Cas9 system in T. hamatum for the first time, which has important scientific significance and application value for studies on functional genomics of Trichoderma and other filamentous fungi.
Exponential Stability of Fractional Large-Scale Neutral Stochastic Delay Systems with Fractional Brownian Motion
Authors: Sathiyaraj T. , Ambika T. , Huat Ong Seng
Published: May 2023

Mathematics plays an important role in many fields of finance. In particular, it presents theories and tools widely used in all areas of finance. Moreover, fractional Brownian motion (fBm) and related stochastic systems have been used to model stock prices and other phenomena in finance due to the long memory property of such systems. This manuscript provides the exponential stability of fractional-order Large-Scale neutral stochastic delay systems with fBm. Based on fractional calculus (FC), Rn stochastic space and Banach fixed point theory, sufficiently useful conditions are derived for the existence of solution and exponential stability results. In this study, we tackle the nonlinear terms of the considered systems by applying local assumptions. Finally, to verify the theoretical results, a numerical simulation is provided.
Chemical Characterization and Evaluation of Antimicrobial Properties of the Wild Medicinal Mushroom Ganoderma lucidum Growing in Northern Moroccan Forests
Authors: Erbiai El Hadi , Amina Benoutman , Kaoutar Abbassi , Saidi Rabah , Lamrani Zouhaire , Pinto Eugénia , Esteves da Silva Joaquim C. G. , Maouni Abdelfettah , Pinto da Silva Luís
Published: May 2023

Ganoderma lucidum is an extensively famous medicinal mushroom distributed worldwide. Despite being widely grown in Moroccan forests, there are no studies on its nutritional, nutraceutical and pharmaceutical values. Herein, the objective of this study was to investigate the chemical characterization and antimicrobial properties of G. lucidum methanolic extract. Total phenolic, flavonoid, tannin, ascorbic acid and carotenoid contents were determined by spectrophotometry. The results revealed that the most prevalent bioactive compounds were phenolics and flavonoids, with total values of 154.60 mg GAE/g of dry methanolic extract (dme) and 60.55 mg CE/mg of dme, respectively. A GC–MS analysis identified 80 biologically active molecules, which were mainly divided into the following major groups: sugars (49.49%), organic acids (8.89%), fatty acids (7.75%), amino acids (7.44%), steroids (7.32%), polyphenols (5.92%), and others (13.16%). Additionally, 22 individual phenolic compounds were identified and quantified using HPLC–MS, with emphasis on kaempferol (1714 µg/g of dry weight (dw)), apigenin (1955 µg/g dw) and quercetin (947.2 µg/g dw). The methanolic extract of G. lucidum indicated strong antioxidant capacity by means of the following: DPPH radical-scavenging activity (53.7 µg/mL), β-carotene/linoleate assay (43.75 µg/mL), and reducing power assay (76.62 µg/mL). Furthermore, the extract exhibited potent antimicrobial properties against seven human pathogenic microorganisms, including two bacteria and five fungal strains, at concentrations ranging from 1 to 16 mg/mL. The most sensitive pathogen was Epidermophyton floccosum (MIC = MFC = 1 mg/mL), while Aspergillus fumigatus was the most resistant one (MIC = 16 mg/mL and MFC ≥ 16 mg/mL). Overall, our findings demonstrated valuable nutritional and bioactive compound attributes, and potent antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, of G. lucidum growing in Moroccan forests. Moreover, these findings suggest that the Moroccan mushroom can be extremely useful for the food and medicinal industries to positively affect socioeconomic status.
The Components’ Roles in Thermal Stability and Flammability of Cork Powder
Authors: Ghonjizade-Samani Farnaz , Haurie Laia , Malet Ramón , Realinho Vera
Published: May 2023

In this study, an analysis of the influence of extractives, suberin and lignocellulosic components on the pyrolysis decomposition and fire reaction mechanisms of a cork oak powder from Quercus suber L. is presented. The summative chemical composition of cork powder was determined. Suberin was the main component at 40% of the total weight, followed by 24% of lignin, 19% of polysaccharides and 14% of extractives. The absorbance peaks of cork and its individual components were further analyzed by means of ATR-FTIR spectrometry. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) showed that the removal of extractives from cork slightly increased the thermal stability between 200 °C and 300 °C and led to the formation of a more thermally stable residue at the end of the cork decomposition. Moreover, by removing suberin, a shift of the onset decomposition temperature to a lower temperature was noticed, indicating that suberin plays a major role in enhancing the thermal stability of cork. Furthermore, non-polar extractives showed the highest flammability with a peak of heat release rate (pHRR) of 365 W/g analyzed by means of micro-scale combustion calorimetry (MCC). Above 300 °C, the heat release rate (HRR) of suberin was lower than that of polysaccharides or lignin. However, below that temperature it released more flammable gases with a pHRR of 180 W/g, without significant charring ability, contrary to the mentioned components that showed lower HRR due to their prominent condensed mode of action that slowed down the mass and heat transfer processes during the combustion process.
WO3 Thin-Film Optical Gas Sensors Based on Gasochromic Effect towards Low Hydrogen Concentrations
Authors: Mazur Michał , Kapuścik Paulina , Weichbrodt Wiktoria , Domaradzki Jarosław , Mazur Piotr , Kot Małgorzata , Flege Jan Ingo
Published: May 2023

Hydrogen gas sensors have recently attracted increased interest due to the explosive nature of H2 and its strategic importance in the sustainable global energy system. In this paper, the tungsten oxide thin films deposited by innovative gas impulse magnetron sputtering have been investigated in terms of their response to H2. It was found that the most favourable annealing temperature in terms of sensor response value, as well as response and recovery times, was achieved at 673 K. This annealing process caused a change in the WO3 cross-section morphology from a featureless and homogenous form to a rather columnar one, but still maintaining the same surface homogeneity. In addition to that, the full-phase transition from an amorphous to nanocrystalline form occurred with a crystallite size of 23 nm. It was found that the sensor response to only 25 ppm of H2 was equal to 6.3, which is one of the best results presented in the literature so far of WO3 optical gas sensors based on a gasochromic effect. Moreover, the results of the gasochromic effect were correlated with the changes in the extinction coefficient and the concentration of the free charge carriers, which is also a novel approach to the understanding of the gasochromic phenomenon.
Preparation and Modification of Polydopamine Boron Nitride—Titanium Dioxide Nanohybrid Particles Incorporated into Zinc Phosphating Bath to Enhance Corrosion Performance of Zinc Phosphate-Silane Coated Q235 Steel
Authors: Muhammad Mustafa , Ma Ruina , Du An , Fan Yongzhe , Zhao Xue , Cao Xiaoming
Published: May 2023

In this work, PDA@BN-TiO2 nanohybrid particles were incorporated chemically into a zinc-phosphating solution to form a robust, low-temperature phosphate-silane coating on Q235 steel specimens. The morphology and surface modification of the coating was characterized by X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), X-ray Spectroscopy (XPS), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results demonstrate that the incorporation of PDA@BN-TiO2 nanohybrids produced a higher number of nucleation sites and reduced grain size with a denser, more robust, and more corrosion-resistant phosphate coating compared to pure coating. The coating weight results showed that the PBT-0.3 sample achieved the densest and most uniform coating (38.2 g/m2). The potentiodynamic polarization results showed that the PDA@BN-TiO2 nanohybrid particles increased phosphate-silane films’ homogeneity and anti-corrosive capabilities. The 0.3 g/L sample exhibits the best performance with an electric current density of 1.95 × 10−5 A/cm2, an order of magnitude lower than that of the pure coatings. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy revealed that PDA@BN-TiO2 nanohybrids provided the greatest corrosion resistance compared to pure coatings. The corrosion time for copper sulfate in samples containing PDA@BN/TiO2 prolonged to 285 s, a significantly higher amount of time than the corrosion time found in pure samples.
Effect of Annealing on the Surface Hardness of High-Fluence Nitrogen Ion-Implanted Titanium
Authors: Vlcak Petr , Sepitka Josef , Koller Jan , Drahokoupil Jan , Tolde Zdenek , Svoboda Simon
Published: May 2023

Commercially pure titanium grade II was kinetically nitrided by implanting nitrogen ions with a fluence in the range of (1–9)·1017 cm−2 and ion energy of 90 keV. Post-implantation annealing in the temperature stability range of TiN (up to 600 °C) shows hardness degradation for titanium implanted with high fluences above 6·1017 cm−2, leading to nitrogen oversaturation. Temperature-induced redistribution of interstitially located nitrogen in the oversaturated lattice has been found to be the predominant hardness degradation mechanism. The impact of the annealing temperature on a change in surface hardness related to the applied fluence of implanted nitrogen has been demonstrated.
Study on OH Radical Production Depending on the Pulse Characteristics in an Atmospheric-Pressure Nanosecond-Pulsed Plasma Jet
Authors: Seol Youbin , Choi Minsu , Chang Hongyoung , You Shinjae
Published: May 2023

Hydroxyl radicals (OH) play a crucial role in plasma-bio applications. As pulsed plasma operation is preferred, and even expanded to the nanosecond range, it is essential to study the relationship between OH radical production and pulse characteristics. In this study, we use optical emission spectroscopy to investigate OH radical production with nanosecond pulse characteristics. The experimental results reveal that longer pulses generate more OH radicals. To confirm the effect of pulse properties on OH radical generation, we conduct computational chemical simulations, focusing on two types of pulse properties: pulse instant power and pulse width. The simulation results show that, similar to the experimental results, longer pulses generate more OH radicals. In the nanosecond range, reaction time is critical for OH radical generation. In terms of chemical aspects, N2 metastable species mainly contribute to OH radical generation. It is a unique behavior observed in nanosecond range pulsed operation. Furthermore, humidity can turn over the tendency of OH radical production in nanosecond pulses. In a humid condition, shorter pulses are advantageous for generating OH radicals. Electrons play key roles in this condition and high instant power contributes to them.
Solid Phase Extraction Penicillin and Tetracycline in Human Serum Using Magnetic Graphene Oxide-Based Sulfide Nanocomposite
Authors: Sereshti Hassan , Soltani Sara , Sridewi Nanthini , Salehi Elham , Parandi Ehsan , Rashid Nodeh Hamid , Shahabuddin Syed
Published: May 2023

Herein, we report a procedure for separating and preconcentrating antibiotics from human serum using a novel adsorbent of magnetic graphene oxide (MGO) and cadmium sulfide (CdS) nanoparticles. The adsorbent (MGO@CdS) was characterized using Fourier transformed infrared spectrometry (FT-IR), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). The effective parameters for extraction efficiency were investigated, including the desorption solvent’s nature, pH, adsorbent dose, salt concentration, extraction time, and volume of sample solution and desorption solvent. The proposed procedure proved to be fast (20 min), simple (two stages), and cost-effective (20 mg of nanoparticles). Under the optimum conditions, satisfactory linearity (R2 > 0.992) was obtained, and limits of detection (LOD) were estimated as 4.5 µg L−1 (for tetracycline) and 5.7 µg L−1 (for penicillin) and a linear dynamic range (LDR) from 20 to 200 µg L−1. The magnetic solid phase extraction (MSPE) method based on MGO@CdS has achieved a satisfactory recovery (71.5–109.5%) in human serum for the selected antibiotics. Finally, the antibiotic’s release was studied in simulated fluids of the gastric (pH = 1.2) and intestine (pH = 7.4). In this light, we demonstrate that the newly introduced adsorbent can be used in drug extraction from different biological media.
Superconducting Gap Structure of the Noncentrosymmetric Topological Superconductor Candidate HfRuP
Authors: Das Debarchan , Adroja Devashibhai , Tripathi Rajesh , Guguchia Zurab , Hotz Fabian , Luetkens Hubertus , Wang Zhijun , Yan Dayu , Luo Huiqian , Shi Youguo
Published: May 2023

We investigate the gap symmetry of the topological superconductor candidate HfRuP, which crystallizes in a noncentrosymmetric hexagonal crystal structure, using muon spin rotation/relaxation (μSR) measurements in transverse-field (TF) geometry. The temperature and magnetic field dependencies of the superconducting relaxation rate derived from the TF-μSR spectra can be well described by an isotropic s-wave gap. The superconducting carrier density ns = 1.41(1) × 1026 m−3 and the magnetic penetration depth, λ(0) = 603(2) nm, were calculated from the TF-μSR data. Interestingly, the ratio between the superconducting transition temperature and the superfluid density, Tc/λ−2(0) ∼ 3.3, is very close to those of unconventional superconductors. Further, our zero-field (ZF) μSR results do not show any considerable change in the muon spin relaxation above and below the superconducting transition temperature, suggesting that time-reversal symmetry is preserved in the superconducting state of this superconductor.
Modified Extended Lie-Group Method for Hessenberg Differential Algebraic Equations with Index-3
Authors: Tang Juan , Lu Jianguang
Published: May 2023

Hessenberg differential algebraic equations (Hessenberg-DAEs) with a high index play a critical role in the modeling of mechanical systems and multibody dynamics. Motivated by the widely used Lie-group differential algebraic equation (LGDAE) method, which handles index-2 systems, we first propose a modified extended Lie-group differential algebraic equation (MELGDAE) method for solving index-3 Hessenberg-DAEs and then provide a theoretical analysis to deepen the foundation of the MELGDAE method. Moreover, the performance of the MELGDAE method is compared with the standard methods RADAU and MEBDF on index-2 and -3 DAE systems, and it is demonstrated that the MELGDAE integrator exhibits a competitive performance in terms of high accuracy and the preservation of algebraic constraints. In particular, all differential variables in index-3 Hessenberg-DAEs achieve second-order convergence using the MELGDAE method, which suggests the potential for extension to Hessenberg-DAEs with an index of 4 or higher.
The Effects of Dynamic Absorptive Capacity on Innovation Strategy: Evidence from SMEs in a Technological Context
Authors: Bedoya-Villa Mauricio , Pérez-Sánchez Elkin , Baier-Fuentes Hugo , Zapata-Molina Cesar , Román-Castaño Edith
Published: May 2023

Absorptive capacity and innovation strategies are determining issues for the survival of organizations in current contexts. While organizations are immersed in the knowledge society, managers face great challenges to respond to market needs and performance in innovation ecosystems. This article aims to analyze the effects of absorptive capacity on the implementation of innovation strategy. A quantitative research study was conducted with a sample of 51 SMEs, and the construct model was analyzed using the SEM method. The results indicate that there is a high correlation between the level of absorptive capacity and innovation strategies. Even though firms in this specific sector work with advanced technologies, there is a basic level of development of absorptive capacity, generating some difficulties for the design and implementation of innovation strategies. Furthermore, by using the acquisition, assimilation, transformation, and exploitation of knowledge from the competitive landscape, firms improve their adaptability in the technological environment. The effects of absorptive capacity on innovation strategy contribute to the development of the extant literature on innovation management strategy and provide some managerial implications and future research areas.
Applications of q-Real Numbers to Triple q-Hypergeometric Functions and q-Horn Functions
Authors: Ernst Thomas
Published: May 2023

The purpose of this article is to study how q-real numbers can be used for computations of convergence regions, q-integral representations of certain multiple triple q-Lauricella functions. The corresponding q-difference equations are also given without proof. In the process, we slightly improve Exton’s original formulas. We also survey the current attempts to generalize the above functions to triple and quadruple hypergeometric functions. Finally, we compute some q-analogues of transformation formulas for Horn functions.