bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brow and Eyelid Rejuvenation: Trends from the 100 Most Cited Articles over 30 Years
Authors: Kuruoglu Doga , Salinas Cristina A. , Kirk Daniel S. , Wong Chin-Ho , Sharaf Basel A.
Published: January 2023

Background and Objective: Various periorbital rejuvenation techniques have been introduced over the last 3 decades. This study highlights important milestones in the evolution of periorbital rejuvenation surgery by identifying the 100 most-cited articles in this field. Material and Methods: The Web of Science citation index was used to identify the 100 most-cited articles concerning periorbital rejuvenation. Articles published in English from January 1989–April 2020 describing periorbital rejuvenation-related surgical techniques, facial aging, and anatomy were included. The terms “lower blepharoplasty”, “upper blepharoplasty”, “browlift”, “browplasty”, “endobrow lift”, “endoscopic brow”, “Foreheadplasty”, “lower eyelid anatomy”, “upper eyelid anatomy”, “forehead lift”, “eyelid rejuvenation”, “canthopexy”, “canthoplasty”, “eyelid fat pad”, “orbital fat pad”, “tear trough”, and “eyelid bags” were entered into the citation search. Web of Science Core Collection was the database used for the search. A manual review of the initial 159 studies was performed. Articles describing reconstructive or non-invasive techniques, injectable fillers, lasers, and neurotoxins were excluded. Of the 100 most-cited articles, the publication year, specialty journal, the corresponding author’s primary specialty, the focus of the article, the corresponding author’s country of residence, the type of study, and the level of evidence were analyzed. Results: The mean number of citations per article was 75 ± 42. There were more articles published from 1989–1999 (n = 53) than later decades. Most articles originated from the USA (n = 82) and were published in plastic surgery journals (n = 81). Plastic surgery was the primary specialty of the corresponding authors (n = 71), followed by oculoplastic surgery (n = 22). Most articles (n = 69) reported on surgical techniques. Of the clinical studies (n = 69), 45 (79%) provided level IV evidence. Conclusions: Of the 100 most-cited studies on periorbital rejuvenation, studies focusing on periorbital anatomy, aging, and surgical techniques comprised the most-cited publications. An anatomically based approach accounting for age-related changes in the periorbital structures is paramount in the field of contemporary periorbital rejuvenation.
The Fetal Type of Posterior Cerebral Artery
Authors: Davidoiu Ana-Maria , Mincă Dragoş Ionuţ , Rusu Mugurel Constantin , Hostiuc Sorin , Toader Corneliu
Published: January 2023

Background and Objectives: Anatomical variations of the arterial circle of Willis (cW) are common. A posterior cerebral artery (PCA) fed mostly or exclusively from the internal carotid artery is a fetal PCA (FPCA), partial (p-FPCA), or full/complete (f-FPCA), respectively. Because FPCA occurs in different anatomical configurations of the cW sides, we aimed to document in detail these morphological possibilities of FPCA within the cW. Materials and Methods: FPCAs were documented on a retrospective set of 139 computed tomography angiograms. Results: FPCAs were found in thirteen cases, nine males and four females. In 7/13 cases there were two modified sides of the cW. In 5/13 cases there were three altered sides of the cW. Another case with FPCA showed four altered sides of the cW. In 10/13 cases, FPCA was unilateral and in the other three cases it was bilateral. Compared to the overall group, unilateral p-FPCAs were found in 1.43%, while unilateral f-FPCAs were found in 5.75%. A bilateral p-FPCA-f-FPCA combination was found in 0.71% and a bilateral f-FPCA-f-FPCA combination occurred in 1.43%. An anatomically isolated ICA was found in just one case with bilateral f-FPCA (0.71%). In 7/13 FPCA cases there were arterial variants exclusively in the posterior cW. In the other 6/13 FPCA cases, there were variants in both anterior and posterior circulation. There were no statistically significant associations of FPCA with sex or age. The higher prevalence of right-sided FPCA was not statistically significant. Conclusions: Anatomical assessments of cW should be performed on a case-by-case basis, as they may correspond to different cW morphologies.
Effects of the Oxytocin Hormone on Pelvic Floor Muscles in Pregnant Rats
Authors: Demir Emine , Mutluay Sukriye Deniz , Buyuknacar Hacer Sinem
Published: January 2023

Background and Objectives: Oxytocin induction is a known risk factor for pelvic floor disorders (PFDs). The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of oxytocin induction on pelvic floor muscles in pregnant rats. Methods: Thirty-two female Wistar rats were included and divided into four groups (n = 8). The groups were as follows: virgin group (group I)–from which muscles were dissected at the beginning of the experiment; spontaneous vaginal delivery (group II) which has delivery spontaneously; saline control group (group III) and oxytocin group (group IV). In groups III and IV, pregnancy was induced on d 21 of pregnancy, with 2.5 mU saline solution or iv oxytocin, respectively, delivered by the intravenous (iv) route in pulses at 10-min intervals for 8 h. Then, the rats were euthanized, the m. coccygeus, m. iliocaudalis and m. pubocaudalis muscles were excised and tissue samples were taken. After histological processing, the vertical and horizontal dimensions of the muscles were analyzed under a light microscope. Results: In group IV; the measurement of the horizontal dimension of the m. pubocaudalis muscles was 50.1 ± 5.4 µm and it was significantly higher than other groups (p < 0.001). In group III; the mean value of the horizontal dimension of m. coccygeus muscle was found to be 49.5 ± 10.9 µm and it was significantly higher than other groups (p < 0.009). Between-group comparisons revealed no difference in mean m. iliocaudalis muscle dimension (p > 0.05). Conclusions: As a result of our study it can say that whether oxytocin induced or not, vaginal birth is a process that affects the pelvic muscles.
Development of Sustainable Hydrophilic Azadirachta indica Loaded PVA Nanomembranes for Cosmetic Facemask Applications
Authors: Tahir Rizwan , Albargi Hasan B. , Ahmad Adnan , Qadir Muhammad Bilal , Khaliq Zubair , Nazir Ahsan , Khalid Tanzeela , Batool Misbah , Arshad Salman Noshear , Jalalah Mohammed , Alsareii Saeed A. , Harraz Farid A.
Published: January 2023

Nanofiber-based facial masks have attracted the attention of modern cosmetic applications due to their controlled drug release, biocompatibility, and better efficiency. In this work, Azadirachta indica extract (AI) incorporated electrospun polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) nanofiber membrane was prepared to obtain a sustainable and hydrophilic facial mask. The electrospun AI incorporated PVA nanofiber membranes were characterized by scanning electron microscope, Ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis) drug release, water absorption analysis, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging, and antibacterial activity (qualitative and quantitative) at different PVA and AI concentrations. The optimized nanofiber of 376 ± 75 nm diameter was obtained at 8 wt/wt% PVA concentration and 100% AI extract. The AI nanoparticles of size range 50~250 nm in the extract were examined through a zeta sizer. The water absorption rate of ~660% and 17.24° water contact angle shows good hydrophilic nature and water absorbency of the nanofiber membrane. The UV-Vis also analyzed fast drug release of >70% in 5 min. The prepared membrane also exhibits 99.9% antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and has 79% antioxidant activity. Moreover, the membrane also had good mechanical properties (tensile strength 1.67 N, elongation 48%) and breathability (air permeability 15.24 mm/s). AI-incorporated nanofiber membrane can effectively be used for facial mask application.
Utilizing Artificial Intelligence Approaches to Determine the Shear Strength of Steel Beams with Flat Webs
Authors: Elamary Ahmed S. , Mohamed Mohamed A. , Sharaky Ibrahim A. , Mohamed Abdou K. , Alharthi Yasir M. , Ali Mahrous A. M.
Published: January 2023

Steel beams’ shear strength is one of the most important factors that influence how quickly webs buckle. Despite extensive studies having been performed over the previous three decades, the existing procedures did not achieve the necessary reliability to predict the ultimate shear resistance of plate girders. New techniques called Learner Techniques have started to be used over the last few years; these techniques were applied to calculate the steel beam shear strength. In this study, a Regression Learner Techniques model was built using data from 100 test results from previously published research. Based on the geometric and material properties of the web and flanges available in the published tests, a model was built using Artificial Neural Networks. Based on sensitivity analysis, a Cascade Forward Backpropagation Neural Networks (CFBNN) approach was utilized to anticipate the shear strength of steel beams. The proposed models outperformed current hybrid artificial intelligence models developed using the same collected datasets and demonstrated to accurately predict the ultimate shear strength. The performance of the models was evaluated using a range of statistical assessment methods, which led to a valuable conclusion. The CFBNN model achieved the highest root mean square (R2 = 0.95). The results corresponding to each test were verified by specimen shear strength values calculated by a theoretical approach. The resultant maximum shear force obtained by the proposed modified equation was compared with the experimental results and the shear force was estimated using two different approaches proposed by the European code. Finally, two approaches were used to verify the proposed model. The first approach was the data reported from an experimental shear test program conducted by the authors, and the second was the results of the shear values acquired experimentally by other researchers. Based on the test results of the previous studies and the current work, the suggested model gives an adequate degree of accuracy for estimating the shear strength of steel beams.
Microstructure of Butt Joint of High-Silicon Steel Made Using CO2 Laser Welding and Inconel 82 Filler
Authors: Chiang Ming-Feng , Chien Ping-Hui , Lo Tzu-Yuan , Shiue Ren-Kae
Published: January 2023

A nickel-based filler wire, Inconel 82, was applied to weld a high-silicon steel plate with a chemical composition in wt% of 2.6 Si, 0.5 Al and Fe balance. The chemical composition of the heterogeneous weld bead was deviated from that of the conventional alloy due to incomplete mixing/convection between the filler wire and base metal in the weld pool. The microstructure of the weld bead was examined in greater depth by FESEM/EBSD, EPMA/WDS and STEM/EDS in the experiment. The heterogeneous weld bead was primarily composed of austenite and martensite, and mainly governed by the Ni concentration. A Schaeffler diagram based on the ratio of Cr and Ni equivalents in the selected positions of the weld bead was used to predict the structure and phase(s) of the Fe-based weld bead. A methodology for the analysis of a weld metal with an unconventional alloy composition has been proposed in the study.
EBSD Analysis of Hot Deformation Behavior of Oxide-Doped Molybdenum Alloys
Authors: Wang Bin , Zhou Yucheng , Xu Liujie , Yang Dan , Li Xiuqing , Wei Shizhong
Published: January 2023

Hot compression tests of Mo–1.5 wt% Al2O3/ZrO2 molybdenum alloys were carried out using the Gleeble–1500 simulator at 0.01 s−1−5 s−1 strain rates and 1000–1500 °C deformation temperatures. The microstructural changes of the alloy at 1000–1500 °C were studied. The changes in the hot deformation process for the Mo−1.5 wt% Al2O3/ZrO2 molybdenum alloys were analyzed by means of EBSD. The ZrO2 particles had a greater effect on improving the thermal deformation resistance of molybdenum alloys than did the Al2O3 particles. The activation energy of the molybdenum alloy doped with ZrO2 (403.917 kJ/mol) was lower than that of the molybdenum alloy doped with Al2O3 (440.314 kJ/mol). Due to the occurrence of recrystallization, the intensity of {100} the texture first increased and, then, dropped down with increase in the temperature, while the change law of {111} texture was the opposite. Above 1200 °C, the higher deformation temperature made the texture more random by lowering the texture intensity. The dislocation density was sacrificed to promote recrystallization. When dynamic recrystallization occurred, the sub–grain boundaries absorbed dislocations and transformed them into high–angle grain boundaries, resulting in a decrease in dislocation density and an increase in high–angle grain boundaries at high temperatures and low strain rates. At 0.01 s−1 strain rate, the average grain size of Mo–1.5 wt% ZrO2 alloy increased from 2.38 μm to 4.67 μm, and the proportion of large angle grain boundaries increased from 59.8% to 86.6%.
Non-Negligible Role of Trace Elements in Influenza Virus Infection
Authors: Xu Shan , Wang Duanyang , Zhao Wenqi , Wei Qinglin , Tong Yigang
Published: January 2023

Influenza virus has continuously spread around the globe for more than 100 years since the first influenza epidemic in 1918. The rapid and unpredictable gene variation of the influenza virus could possibly bring about another pandemic in future, which might threaten to overwhelm us without adequate preparation. Consequently, it is extremely urgent to identify effective broad-spectrum antiviral treatments for a variety of influenza virus variants. As essential body components, trace elements are great potential candidates with an as yet poorly understood ability to protect the host from influenza infection. Herein, we have summarized the present state of knowledge concerning the function of trace elements in influenza virus replication along with an analysis of their potential molecular mechanisms. Modulation of host immune responses to the influenza virus is one of the most common modes to achieve the anti-influenza activity of trace elements, such as selenium and zinc. Simultaneously, some antioxidant and antiviral signal pathways can be altered with the participation of trace elements. More interestingly, some micro-elements including selenium, zinc, copper and manganese, directly target viral proteins and regulate their stability and activity to influence the life cycle of the influenza virus. Further verification of the antiviral effect and the mechanism will promote the application of trace elements as adjuvants in the clinic.
A GABA Receptor Modulator and Semiochemical Compounds Evidenced Using Volatolomics as Candidate Markers of Chronic Exposure to Fipronil in Apis mellifera
Authors: Fernandes Vincent , Hidalgo Kevin , Diogon Marie , Mercier Frédéric , Angénieux Magaly , Ratel Jérémy , Delbac Frédéric , Engel Erwan , Bouchard Philippe
Published: January 2023

Among the various “omics” approaches that can be used in toxicology, volatolomics is in full development. A volatolomic study was carried out on soil bacteria to validate the proof of concept, and this approach was implemented in a new model organism: the honeybee Apis mellifera. Emerging bees raised in the laboratory in pain-type cages were used. Volatolomics analysis was performed on cuticles, fat bodies, and adhering tissues (abdomens without the digestive tract), after 14 and 21 days of chronic exposure to 0.5 and 1 µg/L of fipronil, corresponding to sublethal doses. The VOCs analysis was processed using an HS-SPME/GC-MS method. A total of 281 features were extracted and tentatively identified. No significant effect of fipronil on the volatolome could be observed after 14 days of chronic exposure. Mainly after 21 days of exposure, a volatolome deviation appeared. The study of this deviation highlighted 11 VOCs whose signal abundances evolved during the experiment. Interestingly, the volatolomics approach revealed a VOC (2,6-dimethylcyclohexanol) that could act on GABA receptor activity (the fipronil target) and VOCs associated with semiochemical activities (pheromones, repellent agents, and compounds related to the Nasonov gland) leading to a potential impact on bee behavior.
Electrically Tunable Lenses for Imaging and Light Manipulation
Authors: Chen Lijun , Liang Shijie , Chen Zhenshi , Liang Xifa , Chen Qingming
Published: January 2023

Optofluidics seamlessly combines optics and microfluidics together to construct novel devices for microsystems, providing flexible reconfigurability and high compatibility. By taking advantage of mature electronic fabrication techniques and flexible regulation of microfluidics, electrically actuated optofluidics has achieved fantastic optical functions. Generally, the optical function is achieved by electrically modulating the interfaces or movements of microdroplets inside a small chamber. The high refractive index difference (~0.5) at the interfaces between liquid/air or liquid/liquid makes unprecedented optical tunability a reality. They are suitable for optical imaging devices, such as microscope and portable electronic. This paper will review the working principle and recent development of electrical optofluidic devices by electrowetting and dielectrophoresis, including optical lens/microscope, beam steering and in-plane light manipulation. Some methods to improve the lens performance are reviewed. In addition, the applications of electrical microfluidics are also discussed. In order to stimulate the development of electrically controlled liquid lens, two novel designs derived from electrowetting and dielectrophoresis are introduced in this paper.
Design and Analysis of a Hybrid Displacement Amplifier Supporting a High-Performance Piezo Jet Dispenser
Authors: Zhou Shuai , Yan Peng
Published: January 2023

In this study, a compliant amplifier powered by a piezoelectric stack is designed to meet high-performance dispensing operation requirements. By studying the issue of low frequency bandwidth on the traditional bridge-type amplifier mechanism, we propose a displacement amplifier mechanism, hybrid bridge-lever-bridge (HBLB), that enhances its dynamic performance by combining the traditional bridge-type and lever mechanism. A guiding beam is added to further improve its output stiffness with a guaranteed large amplification ratio. An analytical model has been developed to describe the full elastic deformation behavior of the HBLB mechanism that considers the lateral displacement loss of the input end, followed by a verification through a finite element analysis (FEA). Results revealed that the working principle of the HBLB optimizes the structural parameters using the finite element method. Finally, a prototype of the displacement amplifier was fabricated for performance tests. Static and dynamic test results revealed that the proposed mechanism can reach a travel range of 223.2 μm, and the frequency bandwidth is 1.184 kHz, which meets the requirements of a high-performance piezo jet dispenser.
Failure Mechanism and Stability Control of Soft Roof in Advance Support Section of Mining Face
Authors: Li Jun , Ren Jianju , Li Chen , Zhang Wenbo , Tong Fei
Published: January 2023

There is a great risk of roof falls in the advance support section of the mining face (ASSoMF), and it is difficult to control the roof. Based on the soft roof of Lijiahao coal mine, this paper studies the stress distribution of the ASSoMF and the space-time evolution of the surrounding rock plastic zone by using theoretical analysis and numerical simulation, and reveals its failure mechanism. Based on the control effect of support resistance on plastic zone, it is proposed that the advance support should mainly adapt to the roadway deformation. Advance equipment without repeated support for mechanized movement has been developed, and the support timing analysis and strength check have been carried out. Results show that the roadway at ASSoMF is in a non-uniform stress field, the confining pressure ratio reaches 1.5~7, and the surrounding rock forms asymmetric failure; the principal stress direction deflects, the angle between it and the vertical direction is about 10°~25°, and the plastic zone of the surrounding rock also rotates to the roadway roof. The proposed equipment can adapt to the characteristics of an unsymmetrical large deformation of a soft roof, and can effectively bear the roof load and maintain the stability of the roadway.
Incorporation of Zinc Hydroxide Sulphate (ZHS) Nanoplates into Epoxy Resin to Improve Its Corrosion Protection
Authors: Aliahmadi Fateme , Seifzadeh Davod , Samadianfard Roghaye , Dikici Burak
Published: January 2023

Zinc hydroxide sulphate (ZHS) nanoplates were synthesized and then characterized by various methods, including field-emission electron microscopy (FESEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray photoelectron microscopy (XPS), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), and the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) theory. Then, the synthesized ZHS nanoplates were incorporated into the epoxy coating on a ST 37 steel alloy. No change in the morphology of the epoxy coating was observed after incorporating 1 wt. % ZHS nanoplates. Uniform distribution of the incorporated ZHS nanoplates inside the epoxy coating was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). Atomic force microscopy (AFM) images showed that the surface roughness (Sa) of the neat epoxy coating was about 1.1 µm, which was increased to about 2.1 µm by the incorporation of the ZHS nanoplates. The water contact angle on the coating was changed from 82.1 to 90.8° after incorporating the ZHS nanoplates, which may be attributed to the surface roughness. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) experiments showed that the polarization resistance of the epoxy coating in a 3.5 wt. % NaCl solution after 28 days of immersion was about 2.03 MΩ cm2, and increased to about 9.47 MΩ cm2 after adding the ZHS nanoplates. In addition, the capacitance of the ZHS-containing epoxy coating after 28 days of immersion in the corrosive solution was about 0.07 nsnΩ−1cm−2. The obtained value was more than four times lower than the value obtained for the neat epoxy coating (0.32 nsnΩ−1cm−2). The results of the EIS measurements indicated a significant increase in the corrosion resistance of the epoxy coating after the addition of the ZHS nanoplates. The improvement in the corrosion was explained by the filling of the possible defects and trapping of the aggressive agents by the incorporated ZHS nanoplates. FESEM and EDS analyses at the end of the immersion period confirmed the results of the corrosion tests.
The Effect of Rhenium Content on Microstructural Changes and Irradiated Hardening in W-Re Alloy under High-Dose Ion Irradiation
Authors: Luo Fengfeng , Luo Hongtai , Liu Qiuxiang , Zhou Liang , Lin Wenbin , Xie Ziyang , Guo Liping
Published: January 2023

An amount of 100 dpa Si2+ irradiation was used to study the effect of transmutation rhenium content on irradiated microscopic defects and hardening in W-xRe (x = 0, 1, 3, 5 and 10 wt.%) alloys at 550 °C. The increase in Re content could significantly refine the grain in the W-xRe alloys, and no obvious surface topography change could be found after high-dose irradiation via the scanning electron microscope (SEM). The micro defects induced by high-dose irradiation in W and W-3Re alloys were observed using a transmission electron microscope (TEM). Dislocation loops with a size larger than 10 nm could be found in both W and W-3Re alloy, but the distribution of them was different. The distribution of the dislocation loops was more uniform in pure W, while they seemed to be clustered around some locations in W-3Re alloy. Voids (~2.4 nm) were observed in W-3Re alloy, while no void was investigated in W. High-dose irradiation induced obvious hardening with the hardening rate between 75% and 155% in all W-xRe alloys, but W-3Re alloy had the lowest hardening rate (75%). The main reasons might be related to the smallest grain size in W-3Re alloy, which suppressed the formation of defect clusters and induced smaller hardening than that in other samples.
Chitosan-Graphene Oxide Dip-Coated Polyacrylonitrile-Ethylenediamine Electrospun Nanofiber Membrane for Removal of the Dye Stuffs Methylene Blue and Congo Red
Authors: Pathirana Maadri A. , Dissanayake Nethmi S. L. , Wanasekara Nandula D. , Mahltig Boris , Nandasiri Gayani K.
Published: January 2023

Textile wastewater accommodates many toxic organic contaminants that could potentially threaten the ecosystem if left untreated. Methylene blue is a toxic, non-biodegradable, cationic dye that is reportedly observed in significant amounts in the textile effluent stream as it is widely used to dye silk and cotton fabrics. Congo red is a carcinogenic anionic dye commonly used in the textile industry. This study reports an investigation of methylene blue and Congo red removal using a chitosan-graphene oxide dip-coated electrospun nanofiber membrane. The fabricated nanocomposite was characterized using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), FT-IR Spectroscopy, Raman Spectroscopy, UV-vis Spectroscopy, Drop Shape Analyzer, and X-ray Diffraction. The isotherm modeling confirmed a maximum adsorptive capacity of 201 mg/g for methylene blue and 152 mg/g for Congo red, which were well fitted with a Langmuir isotherm model indicating homogenous monolayer adsorption.
Antibacterial Properties In Vitro of Magnesium Oxide Nanoparticles for Dental Applications
Authors: Rodríguez-Hernández Adriana-Patricia , Vega-Jiménez Alejandro L. , Vázquez-Olmos América R. , Ortega-Maldonado Miriam , Ximenez-Fyvie Laurie-Ann
Published: January 2023

(1) Dental caries, periodontitis, or peri-implantitis are commensal infections related to oral biofilm former bacteria. Likewise, magnesium oxide nanoparticles (MgO-NPs) were studied to introduce them to the antibacterial properties of a few microorganisms. Considering this, the purpose of the present investigation was to determine the antibacterial properties of MgO-NPs on representative oral strains. (2) Methods: MgO-NPs with a cubic crystal structure were obtained by magnesium hydroxide mechanical activation. After synthesis, the MgO-NPs product was annealed at 800 °C (2 h). The MgO-NPs obtained were tested against ten oral ATCC strains at ten serial concentrations (1:1 20.0–0.039 mg/mL per triplicate) using the micro-broth dilution method to determine the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) or minimal bactericidal concentration (MIB). Measures of OD595 were compared against each positive control with a Student’s t-test. Viability was corroborated by colony-forming units. (3) Results: The polycrystalline structure had an average size of 21 nm as determined by X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy (high resolution). Antimicrobial sensitivity was observed in Capnocytophaga gingivalis (MIB/MIC 10–5 mg/mL), Eikenella corrodens (MIB 10 mg/mL), and Streptococcus sanguinis (MIB 20 mg/mL) at high concentrations of the MgO-NPs and at lower concentrations of the MgO-NPs in Actinomyces israelii (MIB 0.039 mg/mL), Fusobacterium nucleatum subsp. nucleatum (MIB/MIC 5–2.5 mg/mL), Porphyromonas gingivalis (MIB 20 mg/mL/MIC 2.5 mg/mL), Prevotella intermedia (MIB 0.625 mg/mL), Staphylococcus aureus (MIC 2.5 mg/mL), Streptococcus mutans (MIB 20 mg/mL/MIC 0.321 mg/mL), and Streptococcus sobrinus (MIB/MIC 5–2.5 mg/mL). (4) Conclusions: The MgO-NPs’ reported antibacterial properties in all oral biofilm strains were evaluated for potential use in dental applications.
Bioerosion Research in the South China Sea: Scarce, Patchy and Unrepresentative
Authors: Li Yen-Huei , Calcinai Barbara , Lim Jiayi , Schönberg Christine H. L.
Published: January 2023

Coral reefs are in decline globally, resulting in changed constructive and destructive processes. The South China Sea is a marginal sea that is of high biological importance, but also subjected to extreme local and global pressures. Yet, the regional calcium carbonate dynamics are not well understood, especially bioerosion. A literature search for research on bioerosion and bioeroders in the South China Sea found only 31 publications on bioerosion-related research and 22 biodiversity checklists that contained bioeroders, thus generating a paltry bibliography. Bioerosion research in the South China Sea is still undeveloped and reached only two publications per year over the last few years. Hong Kong is the hotspot of activities as measured in output and diversity of methods, but the research in Hong Kong and elsewhere was strongly favoring field surveys of sea urchins over other bioeroders. Overall, macroborers received almost equal attention as grazer-eroders, but interest in microborers was low. Almost 90% of the research was conducted by local workers, but 90% of the publications were still disseminated in English. Field surveys and laboratory analyses made up over 40% of the research, but experimental work was mostly missing and represents the largest, most important gap. A government initiative in Thailand generated much knowledge on the distribution of marine sponges; otherwise urchins were again prominent in diversity checklists. Comparatively, many checklists were produced for Vietnam from work by visiting scientists. Most studies investigated coastal habitats, but a fourth sampled at oceanic locations. About 36% of the checklist publications covered the entire South China Sea; the rest produced faunistic records for locations within single countries. Our efforts demonstrate that, while active bioerosion research and basic expertise exist in the South China Sea, research remained unrepresentative with respect to taxa, ecofunctional guilds, and especially to controlled experiments. The latter are urgently needed for prognoses, modelling and management in this populated and overused marine environment.
Preclinical Evaluation of a Lead Specific Chelator (PSC) Conjugated to Radiopeptides for 203Pb and 212Pb-Based Theranostics
Authors: Li Mengshi , Baumhover Nicholas J. , Liu Dijie , Cagle Brianna S. , Boschetti Frédéric , Paulin Guillaume , Lee Dongyoul , Dai Zhiming , Obot Ephraim R. , Marks Brenna M. , Okeil Ibrahim , Sagastume Edwin A. , Gabr Moustafa , Pigge F. Christopher , Johnson Frances L. , Schultz Michael K.
Published: January 2023

203Pb and 212Pb have emerged as promising theranostic isotopes for image-guided α-particle radionuclide therapy for cancers. Here, we report a cyclen-based Pb specific chelator (PSC) that is conjugated to tyr3-octreotide via a PEG2 linker (PSC-PEG-T) targeting somatostatin receptor subtype 2 (SSTR2). PSC-PEG-T could be labeled efficiently to purified 212Pb at 25 °C and also to 212Bi at 80 °C. Efficient radiolabeling of mixed 212Pb and 212Bi in PSC-PEG-T was also observed at 80 °C. Post radiolabeling, stable Pb(II) and Bi(III) radiometal complexes in saline were observed after incubating [203Pb]Pb-PSC-PEG-T for 72 h and [212Bi]Bi-PSC-PEG-T for 5 h. Stable [212Pb]Pb-PSC-PEG-T and progeny [212Bi]Bi-PSC-PEG-T were identified after storage in saline for 24 h. In serum, stable radiometal/radiopeptide were observed after incubating [203Pb]Pb-PSC-PEG-T for 55 h and [212Pb]Pb-PSC-PEG-T for 24 h. In vivo biodistribution of [212Pb]Pb-PSC-PEG-T in tumor-free CD-1 Elite mice and athymic mice bearing AR42J xenografts revealed rapid tumor accumulation, excellent tumor retention and fast renal clearance of both 212Pb and 212Bi, with no in vivo redistribution of progeny 212Bi. Single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging of [203Pb]Pb-PSC-PEG-T and [212Pb]Pb-PSC-PEG-T in mice also demonstrated comparable accumulation in AR42J xenografts and renal clearance, confirming the theranostic potential of the elementally identical 203Pb/212Pb radionuclide pair.
Antibunching Effects in the Hybrid Cavity–Bose–Einstein Condensates System
Authors: Li Zhen , Lu Wangjun
Published: January 2023

We theoretically study the model of a hybrid cavity–Bose–Einstein condensates (BEC) system that consists of a two-level impurity atom coupled to a cavity–BEC system with radiation pressure coupling, where the system is weakly driven by a monochromatic laser field. The steady-states behavior of the entire system is researched in the framework of the impurity–cavity coupling dispersive limit. We find that the multiple types of photon steady-state antibunching effects can be obtained when only the dissipation of the cavity is included. Moreover, the strength and frequency range of conventional steady-state antibunching effects of the cavity can be significantly modified by the impurity atom and intrinsic non-linearity of BEC. This result shows that our study can provide a method to tune the antibunching effects of the cavity field. In addition, the non-standard photon blockade or superbunching effect with the suppression of two-photon correlation and enhancement of three-photon correlation can be realized. The frequency range of the superbunching effect also can be changed by the impurity atom and intrinsic non-linearity of BEC. Therefore, our study shows many quantum statistical characteristics in a hybrid cavity–BEC quantum system and its manipulation.
Genetic Characterization of the Partial Disease Resistance of Rice to Bacterial Panicle Blight and Sheath Blight by Combined QTL Linkage and QTL-seq Analyses
Authors: Ontoy John Christian , Shrestha Bishnu , Karki Hari Sharan , Barphagha Inderjit , Angira Brijesh , Famoso Adam , Ham Jong Hyun
Published: January 2023

Bacterial panicle blight (BPB) and sheath blight (SB) are major diseases of rice and few cultivars have shown a high level of resistance to these diseases. A recombinant inbred line (RIL) population developed from the U.S. cultivars Jupiter (moderately resistant) and Trenasse (susceptible) was investigated to identify loci associated with the partial disease resistance to BPB and SB. Disease phenotypes in BPB and SB, as well as the days-to-heading (DTH) trait, were evaluated in the field. DTH was correlated to BPB and SB diseases, while BPB was positively correlated to SB in the field trials with this RIL population. Genotyping was performed using Kompetitive Allele Specific PCR (KASP) assays and whole-genome sequence (WGS) analyses. Quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping and bulk segregant analysis using a set of WGS data (QTL-seq) detected a major QTL on the upper arm of chromosome 3 for BPB, SB, and DTH traits within the 1.0–1.9 Mb position. Additional QTLs associated with BPB and SB were also identified from other chromosomes by the QTL-seq analysis. The QTLs identified in this study contain at least nine candidate genes that are predicted to have biological functions in defense or flowering. These findings provide an insight into the complex nature of the quantitative resistance to BPB and SB, which may also be closely linked to the flowering trait.
Durability of Shield Effective Polyester Cotton Fabric with Integrated Stainless Steel Threads in Processes of Dry and Wet Cleaning
Authors: Pušić Tanja , Šaravanja Bosiljka , Šajatović Anica Hursa , Malarić Krešimir
Published: January 2023

Protective properties against electromagnetic radiation represent the essential value of textiles for protective clothing worn in hazardous working conditions. To ensure that protective clothing lasts for as long as feasible, care processes must be optimized, especially since protective clothing is subjected to repeated cycles due to soiling. Improved formulations of special detergents and agents with high-performance finishing agents used in care processes can contribute to a longer life of protective clothing. In this paper, the shield effectiveness of a cotton polyester fabric with integrated metal threads in the warp and weft directions at frequencies of 0.9 GHz, 1.8 GHz, 2.1 GHz, and 2.4 GHz is compared to that of its environmentally friendly alternative, wet cleaning processes. The research is carried out by varying process parameters: mechanics, chemical action, and cycle number. The results proved the drop of shield properties of polyester/cotton fabric with integrated stainless steel threads depending on frequencies and the number of professional cleaning cycles. The worst shield effectiveness of the tested fabric was obtained after 10 cycles of dry cleaning, wherein the degree of protection at frequency 2.4 GHz is reduced by 6.89 dB. According to the obtained results, the level of functional properties was better preserved in the wet cleaning process, which additionally has better ecological premises compared to dry cleaning process.
Static and Dynamic Properties Study on Interface between New Polymer Materials and Silty Clay Based on Ring Shear Tests
Authors: Li Jia , Li Jie , Zhang Jingwei , Liu Guangzong
Published: January 2023

The polymer anti-seepage wall composed of polymer materials is a new technology for impermeable reinforcement in dykes and dams. Compared with traditional grouting materials, polymer grouting materials have the advantages of early strength, convenience, good anti-seepage performance, safety and durability. Because of the particularity of polymer materials, they form a “root-like” cementing status with dam soils after grouting. This complex interface affects the interaction between the wall and the dam, which subsequently influences the whole structure’s properties under loads. In this paper, based on an original designed test mould, an SRS-150 dynamic ring shear instrument was used to conduct static and dynamic ring shear tests to explore the static and dynamic properties of the polymer–silty clay interface. Moreover, influence laws and the related mechanism of different factors on the polymer–silty clay interface were studied in this paper. At the same time, the hyperbolic constitutive model of the polymer–silty clay interface was established, and the validity of the model was verified by comparing the numerical simulation with the relevant experimental results. The achievements of this paper are helpful as they provide a scientific basis for the structure’s mechanical analysis and lay the foundation for the promotion and application of the new anti-seepage technology.
Iron and Manganese Alginate for Rechargeable Battery Electrodes
Authors: Kiriinya Lindah K. , Kwakernaak Markus C. , Van den Akker Simone C. D. , Verbist Guy L. M. M. , Picken Stephen J. , Kelder Erik M.
Published: January 2023

We present a sustainable, inherently safe battery chemistry that is based on widely available and cheap materials, that is, iron and manganese hosted in alginate bio-material known from the food and medical industry. The resulting battery can be recycled to allow circularity. The electrodes were synthesised by the alginate caging the multi-valent metals to form a hydrogel in an aqueous environment. Characterisation includes FTIR, XPS and Mössbauer spectroscopy. The electrochemical performance of the electrodes was investigated by performing cyclic voltammetry (CV) and (dis)charge experiments. Mn and Fe ions show good co-ordination with the alginic acid with higher oxidation states demonstrating complex bonding behaviour. The non-optimised iron and manganese alginate electrodes already exhibit a cycling efficiency of 98% and 69%, respectively. This work shows that Fe and Mn atomically disperse in a bio-based host material and can act as electrodes in an aqueous battery chemistry. While demonstrated at cell level, it is furthermore explained how these materials can form the basis for a (semi-solid) flow cell.
Effects of Ethylene-Propylene-Diene Monomers (EPDMs) with Different Moony Viscosity on Crystallization Behavior, Structure, and Mechanical Properties of Thermoplastic Vulcanizates (TPVs)
Authors: Song Li-Fu , Bai Nan , Shi Ying , Wang Yuan-Xia , Song Li-Xin , Liu Li-Zhi
Published: January 2023

Moony viscosity of ethylene-propylene-diene monomers (EPDMs) can have effect on the crystallization dynamics, structure, and properties of EPDM/polypropylene (PP)-based thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPVs). TPVs with two different Moony viscosities are prepared via a twin-screw extruder, respectively. Crosslinked EPDM with lower Moony viscosity has a higher crosslinking density and the nucleation effect of its crosslink point improves the crystallization ability of PP in TPV, leading to PP phase crystallization at higher temperatures. For TPV with an EPDM of higher Moony viscosity, it has higher crystallinity and the EPDM phase crystallized earlier. Synchrotron radiation studies show that the EPDM with low Moony viscosity has no obvious crystalline structure, and the prepared TPV has an obvious phase separation structure, while the TPV with higher Mooney viscosity of the EPDM does not exhibit obvious phase separation, indicating that the longer EPDM chains have better compatibility with PP in TPV, also evidenced by the almost disappearance of the PP glass transition peak in TPV, from the dynamic mechanical analysis. The longer EPDM chains in TPV provide more physical entanglement and better interaction with PP molecules, resulting in a stronger strain hardening process, longer elongation at break, and higher tensile stress in TPV.
A Novel Highly Conductive, Transparent, and Strong Pure-Cellulose Film from TEMPO-Oxidized Bacterial Cellulose by Increasing Sonication Power
Authors: Rahmadiawan Dieter , Abral Hairul , Kotodeli Rafi Alzues , Sugiarti Eni , Muslimin Ahmad Novi , Admi Ratna Isnanita , Arafat Andril , Kim Hyun-Joong , Sapuan S.M. , Kosasih Engkos Achmad
Published: January 2023

Developing a conductive cellulose film without any metal compounds remains challenging, though in great demand. However, cellulose film prepared from bacterial cellulose (BC) powder without any metal compounds has poor tensile, physical, and electrical properties, thus limiting its application. Herein, this study aims to prepare and characterize an all-cellulose film from 2,2,6,6-Tetramethylpiperidin-1-yl)oxyl (TEMPO)-oxidized bacterial cellulose (TOBC) powders without adding metal compounds and treated by ultrasonication. TOBC powders are sonicated with various powers of 250, 500, and 750 W for 20 min without any other substance. It was proved that increasing the ultrasonication power level resulted in a significant improvement in the properties of the film. The ultrasonication of 750 W increased tensile strength by 85%, toughness by 308%, light transmittance by 542%, and electrical conductivity by 174% compared to the nonsonicated film. A light-emitting diode connected to a power source through this sonicated film was much brighter than that connected via a nonsonicated film. For the first time, this study reports the preparation of electrically conductive, transparent, strong, and bendable pure TOBC films by increasing ultrasonic power for environmentally friendly electronic devices application.
Hydrolysis, Biodegradation and Ion Sorption in Binary Biocomposites of Chitosan with Polyesters: Polylactide and Poly(3-Hydroxybutyrate)
Authors: Rogovina Svetlana , Zhorina Lubov , Yakhina Anastasia , Shapagin Alexey , Iordanskii Alexey , Berlin Alexander
Published: January 2023

The film binary composites polylactide (PLA)–chitosan and poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB)–chitosan have been fabricated and their functional characteristics, such as hydrolysis resistance, biodegradation in soil, and ion sorption behavior have been explored. It was established that hydrolysis temperature and acidity of solutions are differently affected by the weight loss of these two systems. Thus, in the HCl aqueous solutions, the stability of the PHB-chitosan composites is higher than the stability of the PLA-chitosan one, while the opposite situation was observed for biodegradation in soil. The sorption capacity of both composites to Fe3+ ions was investigated and it was shown that, for PHB-chitosan composites, the sorption is higher than for PLA-chitosan. It was established that kinetics of sorption obeys the pseudo-first-order equation and limiting values of sorption correspond to Henry’s Law formalism. By scanning electron microscopy (SEM), the comparative investigation of initial films and films containing sorbed ions was made and the change of films surface after Fe3+ sorption is demonstrated. The findings presented could open a new horizon in the implementation of novel functional biodegradable composites.
Geometallurgical Detailing of Plant Operation within Open-Pit Strategic Mine Planning
Authors: Quelopana Aldo , Órdenes Javier , Araya Rodrigo , Navarra Alessandro
Published: January 2023

Mineral and metallurgical processing are crucial within the mineral value chain. These processes involve several stages wherein comminution is arguably the most important due to its high energy consumption, and its impact on subsequent extractive processes. Several geological properties of the orebody impact the efficiency of mineral processing and extractive metallurgy; scholars have therefore proposed to deal with the uncertain ore feed in terms of grades and rock types, incorporating operational modes that represent different plant configurations that provide coordinated system-wide responses. Even though these studies offer insights into how mine planning impacts the ore fed into the plant, the simultaneous optimization of mine plan and metallurgical plant design has been limited by the existing stochastic mine planning algorithms, which have only limited support for detailing operational modes. The present work offers to fill this gap for open-pit mines through a computationally efficient adaptation of a strategic mine planning algorithm. The adaptation incorporates a linear programming representation of the operational modes which forms a Dantzig-Wolfe decomposition, nested within a high-performing stochastic mine planning algorithm based on a variable neighborhood descent metaheuristic. Sample calculations are presented, loosely based on the Mount Isa deposit in Australia, in which a metallurgical plant upgrade is evaluated, showing that the upgraded design significantly decreases the requirement on the mining equipment, without significantly affecting the NPV.
Review of CFD-DEM Modeling of Wet Fluidized Bed Granulation and Coating Processes
Authors: Song Yinqiang , Zhou Tuo , Bai Ruiqi , Zhang Man , Yang Hairui
Published: January 2023

Wet fluidized bed granulation and coating processes have been widely used in the pharmaceutical and food industries. The complex gas–solid flow coupled with heat and mass transfer in such processes made it hard to form complete control over the apparatuses. To serve better design, scaling-up, and optimization of granulators and coaters, the underlying micro-scale mechanisms must be clarified. Computational fluid dynamics coupled with the discrete element method (CFD-DEM) provides a useful tool to study in-depth the gas-solid hydrodynamics of the granulation and coating processes. This review firstly introduced the fundamental theory of CFD-DEM from governing equations, force calculation, and coupling schemes. Then the application of CFD-DEM in simulating wet fluidized bed granulation and coating was presented. Specifically, the research focus and the role of CFD-DEM in resolving issues were discussed. Finally, the outlook on the development of CFD-DEM in the context of granulation and coating was given.