bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Credibilistic Multi-Period Mean-Entropy Rolling Portfolio Optimization Problem Based on Multi-Stage Scenario Tree
Authors: Peykani Pejman , Nouri Mojtaba , Pishvaee Mir Saman , Oprean-Stan Camelia , Mohammadi Emran
Published: September 2023

This study considers a time-consistent multi-period rolling portfolio optimization issue in the context of a fuzzy situation. Rolling optimization with a risk aversion component attempts to separate the time periods and psychological effects of one’s investment in a mathematical model. Furthermore, a resilient portfolio selection may be attained by taking into account fuzzy scenarios. Credibilistic entropy of fuzzy returns is used to measure portfolio risk because entropy, as a measure of risk, is not dependent on any certain sort of symmetric membership function of stock returns and may be estimated using nonmetric data. Mathematical modeling is performed to compare the Rolling Model (RM) and the Unified Model (UM). Two empirical studies from the Tehran stock market (10 stocks from April 2017 to April 2019) and the global stock market (20 stocks from April 2021 to April 2023) are utilized to illustrate the applicability of the suggested strategy. The findings reveal that RM can limit the risk of the portfolio at each time, but the portfolio’s return is smaller than that of UM. Furthermore, the suggested models outperform the standard deterministic model.
Projectile Motion in Special Theory of Relativity: Re-Investigation and New Dynamical Properties in Vacuum
Authors: Algehyne Ebrahem A. , Ebaid Abdelhalim , El-Zahar Essam R. , Aldhabani Musaad S. , Areshi Mounirah , Al-Jeaid Hind K.
Published: September 2023

The projectile motion (PP) in a vacuum is re-examined in this paper, taking into account the relativistic mass in special relativity (SR). In the literature, the mass of the projectile was considered as a constant during motion. However, the mass of a projectile varies with velocity according to Einstein’s famous equation m=m01−v2/c2, where m0 is the rest mass of the projectile and c is the speed of light. The governing system consists of two-coupled nonlinear ordinary differential equations (NODEs) with prescribed initial conditions. An analytical approach is suggested to treat the current model. Explicit formulas are determined for the main characteristics of the relativistic projectile (RP) such as time of flight, time of maximum height, range, maximum height, and the trajectory. The relativistic results reduce to the corresponding ones of the non-relativistic projectile (NRP) in Newtonian mechanics, when the initial velocity is not comparable to c. It is revealed that the mass of the RP varies during the motion and an analytic formula for the instantaneous mass in terms of time is derived. Also, it is declared that the angle of maximum range of the RP depends on the launching velocity, i.e., unlike the NRP in which the angle of maximum range is always π/4. In addition, this angle lies in a certain interval [π/4,π/6) for any given initial velocity (<c). The obtained results are discussed and interpreted. Comparisons with a similar problem in the literature are performed and the differences in results are explained.
Epidemiologic Study of Gene Distribution in Romanian and Brazilian Patients with Non-Cicatricial Alopecia
Authors: Păun Monica , Torres Gustavo , Țiplica George Sorin , Cauni Victor Mihail
Published: September 2023

Background: Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) and alopecia areata (AA) are the most common types of non-cicatricial alopecia. Both diseases have limited effective therapeutic options and affect patient quality of life. Pharmacogenetic tests can help predict the most appropriate treatment option by evaluating the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) corresponding to genes related to alopecia. The objective of the study was to evaluate and compare selected SNPs and genes in AA and AGA patients from Romania and Brazil. Materials and Methods: We performed a retrospective study regarding the associations between AA and AGA and 45 tag SNPs of 15 genes in 287 Romanian and 882 Brazilian patients. The DNA samples were collected from oral mucosa using a swab. The SNPs were determined by the qPCR technique. Each genetic test displays the subject’s genotype of the selected gene and the prediction of a successful treatment (e.g., genotype AA of the GR-alpha gene is related to a predisposition to normal sensibility to topical glucocorticoid, and, therefore, glucocorticoids should be effective). Results: The GR-alpha, GPR44-2, SULT1A1, and CRABP2 genes were statistically significantly different in Brazil compared to Romania. The SULT1A1 activity that predicts the response to minoxidil treatment showed in our analysis that minoxidil is recommended in half of the cases of AGA and AA. Patients with AGA and a high expression of SRD5A1 or PTGFR-2 may benefit from Dutasteride or Latanoprost treatment, respectively. Most of the studied genes showed no differences between the two populations. Conclusions: The DNA analysis of the patients with alopecia may contribute to a successful treatment.
Facile Preparation of Durable and Eco-Friendly Superhydrophobic Filter with Self-Healing Ability for Efficient Oil/Water Separation
Authors: Voo Wei Xin , Chong Woon Chan , Teoh Hui Chieh , Lau Woei Jye , Chan Yi Jing , Chung Ying Tao
Published: September 2023

The superhydrophobic feature is highly desirable for oil/water separation (OWS) operation to achieve excellent separation efficiency. However, using hazardous materials in fabricating superhydrophobic surfaces is always the main concern. Herein, superhydrophobic filters were prepared via an eco-friendly approach by anchoring silica particles (SiO2) onto the cotton fabric surface, followed by surface coating using natural material—myristic acid via a dip coating method. Tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) was used in the synthesis of SiO2 particles from the silica sol. In addition, the impact of the drying temperature on the wettability of the superhydrophobic filter was investigated. Moreover, the pristine cotton fabric and as-prepared superhydrophobic cotton filters were characterised based on Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX) and contact angle (CA) measurement. The superhydrophobic cotton filter was used to perform OWS using an oil-water mixture containing either chloroform, hexane, toluene, xylene or dichloroethane. The separation efficiency of the OWS using the superhydrophobic filter was as high as 99.9%. Moreover, the superhydrophobic fabric filter also demonstrated excellent durability, chemical stability, self-healing ability and reusability.
Phase Composition and Microstructure of Cast Al-6%Mg-2%Ca-2%Zn Alloy with Fe and Si Additions
Authors: Doroshenko Vitali , Shurkin Pavel , Sviridova Tatyana , Fortuna Anastasiya , Shkaley Ivan
Published: September 2023

Investigating the effect of Fe and Si is essential for any new Al-based composition, as these impurities can be easily found both after primary production and recycling. This study is dedicated to filling the gap in revealing the phase composition of an Al-6%Mg-2%Ca-2%Zn alloy after the combined and separate addition of Fe and Si. This was addressed by permanent mold casting and solid solution heat treatment. The investigation of slowly solidified samples also contributed to understanding potential phase transitions. It was found that the alloy containing 0.5%Fe can have nearly spherical intermetallics after heat treatment, whereas a higher Fe content brought the formation of a needle-shaped Al3Fe intermetallic. We explain this by the formation of a ternary α-Al + Al10CaFe2 + Al4Ca eutectic, which is more compact in as-cast condition compared to divorced binary α-Al + Al4Ca and α-Al + Al3Fe eutectics. Similarly, 0.5%Si readily incurred the formation of a needle-shaped Al2CaSi2 intermetallic, probably also by a binary reaction L → α-Al + Al2CaSi2. In the solidified samples, no Mg2Si phase was found, even in slowly solidified samples. This is contrary to the thermodynamic calculation, which suggests a peritectic reaction L + Al2CaSi2 Mg2Si. Interestingly, the addition of 0.5%Si caused an even coarser microstructure compared to the addition of 1%Fe, which caused the appearance of a primary Al3Fe phase. We conclude that the new alloy is more tolerable to Fe rather than Si. Specifically, the addition of 0.5%Fe can be added while maintaining a fine morphology of the eutectic network. It was suggested that the morphology of eutectic and solid solution hardening governed the mechanical properties. The strength of the alloys containing separate 0.5%Fe (UTS = 215 ± 8 MPa and YS 146 ± 4 = MPa) and the combined 0.5%Fe and 0.5%Si additions (UTS = 195 ± 14 MPa and YS ± 1 = 139 MPa) was not compromised compared to the alloy containing 0.5%Si (UTS 201 ± 24 = MPa and YS = 131 ± 1 MPa).
Local Hydrogen Measurements in Multi-Phase Steel C60E by Means of Electrochemical Microcapillary Cell Technique
Authors: Jürgensen Jens , Pohl Michael
Published: September 2023

By utilizing hydrogen as an eco-friendly energy source, many metals are exposed to gaseous (pressurized) hydrogen. High-strength steels with an ultimate tensile strength of 800 MPa and above are especially susceptible to hydrogen-induced fracturing, also referred to as hydrogen embrittlement (HE). Both the microstructure and phase fractions within the steel, as well as lattice distortion, carbide precipitation, residual stress, etc., significantly affect the susceptibility to HE. Among others, one important cause for this observation is found in the locally varying hydrogen solubility within different microstructural phases such as martensite, bainite, pearlite, and ferrite. Both a thorough understanding of the HE mechanisms and taking countermeasures in the form of alloying design require an accurate analysis of local diffusive hydrogen concentrations within the material. Thermal analysis methods such as Thermal Desorption Mass Spectrometry only display an integral hydrogen concentration throughout the whole sample volume. To analyze the local diffusive hydrogen concentration, novel measuring techniques with a high special resolution must therefore be utilized. The current research presents first-of-its-kind hydrogen analyses by means of the electrochemical microcapillary cell. Using a 10 µm tip opening diameter allows for conducting local diffusive hydrogen measurements within individual grains of multi-phase carbon steel C60E (1.1221). The results confirm that hydrogen is distributed heterogeneously within multi-phase steels. Considering the individual phase fractions and the respective local diffusive hydrogen concentrations, a total diffusive hydrogen concentration can be calculated. The obtained value is in good agreement with reference thermal hydrogen analyses. Our results suggest that electrochemical microcapillary cell measurements offer great potential for further studies, which will provide a better understanding of HE and local hydrogen accumulation.
The Effect of Operational Factors on Phase Formation Patterns in the Light-Water Reactor Pressure Vessel Steels
Authors: Fedotova Svetlana , Kuleshova Evgenia
Published: September 2023

This paper presents the results of atom probe tomography studies on radiation-induced phase formation in light-water reactor pressure vessel steels after neutron irradiation under various conditions in comparison with the literature data. The given irradiation conditions are fluence (10–100) × 1022 m−2, flux (5–2700) × 1014 m−2s−1 and irradiation temperature (50–400) °C. The composition of the studied steels varies in a wide range for the elements significantly affecting radiation and thermal resistance of steels: Ni in the range of 0.2–6.0 wt.%, Mn–0.03–1.1 wt.%, Cu–0.01–0.16 wt.%, and P–0.01–0.03 wt.%. The number density, volume fraction, size, composition, and nucleation sites of precipitates are determined. The regularities of the effect of various operational factors on the phase formation in these steels have been analyzed and revealed. The study shows that in materials with high copper content, Cu-rich precipitates are formed by a radiation-enhanced mechanism. In materials with low copper content, their formation upon irradiation at 300 °C occurs by a radiation-induced mechanism since the main nucleation sites are point defect clusters formed in cascades. At the same time, the density, volume fraction, and composition of the precipitates depend on the steel composition (Ni and Mn content). In the steel with increased Ni content up to 5 wt.% but with ultra-low Mn content ≤ 0.03 wt.%, it is possible to suppress the formation of Ni-Si-Mn precipitates under irradiation.
Experimental Investigation of the Derivative Cutting When Machining AISI 1045 with Micro-Textured Cutting Tools
Authors: Salem Amr , Hegab Hussien , Kishawy Hossam A.
Published: September 2023

In the context of satisfying sustainability requirements nowadays, dry machining is one of the ideal strategies to eliminate the environmental and human health burdens of machining processes. In addition, micro-textured cutting tools are used to improve the performance of dry machining processes. Micro-textures reduce the chip-tool contact length and thus reduce friction and heat, which results in fewer cutting forces and temperature. However, the action of micro-cutting of the bottom side of the chip, which is known as derivative cutting, cuts down the gains of using textured tools, where derivative cutting leads to higher cutting forces, heat, and tool wear. This study aimed to investigate the effects of significant texture design parameters (i.e., micro-groove width) when cutting AISI 1045 steel using different machining parameters (i.e., 75 m/min and 150 m/min of cutting velocity, 0.05 and 0.10 mm/rev of feed). Three different textured cutting tool designs were prepared using the laser texturing technique and then utilized in machining experiments. In addition, the measured machining outputs were forces, power consumption, flank wear, and surface roughness. There were no marks for the derivative cutting when using the textured cutting tool with the narrowest micro-grooves according to the obtained microscopical images after the machining tests. In addition, the textured cutting tool, which included the narrowest micro-grooves, showed better performance compared to the non-textured cutting tool and the other textured tool designs in terms of cutting and feed forces, power consumption, flank tool wear, and surface roughness at the used cutting conditions. This confirmed that the careful optimal design of the micro-textured tools can reduce or eliminate the severity of the derivative cutting, and thus improve the overall machining performance.
A Systematic Study on Layer-Level Multi-Material Fabrication of Parts via Laser-Powder Bed Fusion Process
Authors: Angelastro Andrea , Posa Paolo , Errico Vito , Campanelli Sabina Luisa
Published: September 2023

In this work, a systematic study was conducted on the fabrication of multi-material components obtained employing Laser-Powder Bed Fusion (L-PBF) technology. The idea of making multi-material components is a winning capability of additive technologies because it allows for the fabrication of Functionally Graded Materials (FGMs) with the customization of parts according to different required properties. This study aims to determine the ability of an inexpensive system, adaptable to the L-PBF machines already on the market, with a powder-spreading technique based on coaters or rollers, to produce parts with continuously variable properties in each layer. Also, the correlation between certain selectable factors in the production design and the result obtained in terms of metallurgical and mechanical properties and chemical composition was investigated. The factors studied were the relative position of the different materials within the powder chamber and the geometry of the equipment designed to produce the cFGMs components. The performed tests involved the use of two materials, a nickel-based superalloy, and a stainless steel, having different chemical, physical, and mechanical properties to obtain gradual property variations in the manufactured samples. Based on the results of post-process characterization obtained via metallographic, chemical, and mechanical analysis, the relative positions of the materials and the geometry of the developed equipment have a limited effect on the sample’s manufactured properties. The characteristics of the FGM zone depend on the nature of the employed powders, and its extent coincides with that defined during the design of the divider.
Design of a Multisensory Device for Tomato Volatile Compound Detection Based on a Mixed Metal Oxide—Electrochemical Sensor Array and Optical Reader
Authors: Meléndez Félix , Sánchez Ramiro , Fernández Juan Álvaro , Belacortu Yaiza , Bermúdez Francisco , Arroyo Patricia , Martín-Vertedor Daniel , Lozano Jesús
Published: September 2023

Insufficient control of tomato ripening before harvesting and infection by fungal pests produce large economic losses in world tomato production. Aroma is an indicative parameter of the state of maturity and quality of the tomato. This study aimed to design an electronic system (TOMATO-NOSE) consisting of an array of 12 electrochemical sensors, commercial metal oxide semiconductor sensors, an optical camera for a lateral flow reader, and a smartphone application for device control and data storage. The system was used with tomatoes in different states of ripeness and health, as well as tomatoes infected with Botrytis cinerea. The results obtained through principal component analysis of the olfactory pattern of tomatoes and the reader images show that TOMATO-NOSE is a good tool for the farmer to control tomato ripeness before harvesting and for the early detection of Botrytis cinerea.
Killing of a Multispecies Biofilm Using Gram-Negative and Gram-Positive Targeted Antibiotic Released from High Purity Calcium Sulfate Beads
Authors: Moore Kelly , Li Anthony , Gupta Niraj , Gupta Tripti Thapa , Delury Craig , Aiken Sean S. , Laycock Phillip A. , Stoodley Paul
Published: September 2023

Background: Multispecies biofilm orthopedic infections are more challenging to treat than mono-species infections. In this in-vitro study, we aimed to determine if a multispecies biofilm, consisting of Gram positive and negative species with different antibiotic susceptibilities could be treated more effectively using high purity antibiotic-loaded calcium sulfate beads (HP-ALCSB) containing vancomycin (VAN) and tobramycin (TOB) in combination than alone. Methods: Three sets of species pairs from bioluminescent strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) and Staphylococcus aureus (SA) and clinical isolates, Enterococcus faecalis (EF) and Enterobacter cloacae were screened for compatibility. PA + EF developed intermixed biofilms with similar cell concentrations and so were grown on 316L stainless steel coupons for 72 h or as 24 h agar lawn biofilms and then treated with HP-ALCSBs with single or combination antibiotics and assessed by viable count or bioluminescence and light imaging to distinguish each species. Replica plating was used to assess viability. Results: The VAN + TOB bead significantly reduced the PA + EF biofilm CFU and reduced the concentration of surviving antibiotic tolerant variants by 50% compared to single antibiotics. Conclusions: The combination of Gram-negative and positive targeted antibiotics released from HP-ALCSBs may be more effective in treating multispecies biofilms than monotherapy alone.
A Bacteriophage Cocktail Reduces Five Relevant Salmonella Serotypes at Low Multiplicities of Infection and Low Temperatures
Authors: Gvaladze Tamar , Lehnherr Hansjörg , Große-Kleimann Julia , Hertwig Stefan
Published: September 2023

Salmonella are important pathogenic bacteria and, following Campylobacter, they are the second most common cause of bacterial foodborne infections worldwide. To reduce the presence of bacteria along the food chain, the application of bacteriophages (phages) may be a promising tool. In this study, the lytic properties of six phages against five relevant Salmonella serotypes (S. Enteritidis, S. Typhimurium, S. Infantis, S. Paratyphi B and S. Indiana) were analyzed. Three phages were able to lyse all five serotypes. We determined the lytic potential of each phage on indicator strains in vitro at room temperature (RT) and at 37 °C using low multiplicities of infection (MOIs). Most phages reduced their host more efficiently at RT than at 37 °C, even at the lowest MOI of 0.001. Following this, the lytic activity of a cocktail comprising five phages (MOI = 0.1) was examined with each of the five serotypes and a mix of them at RT, 15, 12, 10, 8 and 6 °C. All cultures of single serotypes as well as the mixture of strains were significantly reduced at temperatures as low as 8 °C. For single serotypes, reductions of up to 5 log10 units and up to 2.3 log10 units were determined after 6 h (RT) and 40 h (8 °C), respectively. The mixture of strains was reduced by 1.7 log10 units at 8 °C. The data clearly suggest that these phages are suitable candidates for biocontrol of various Salmonella serotypes under food manufacturing conditions.
Microbially Influenced Corrosion of Steel in Marine Environments: A Review from Mechanisms to Prevention
Authors: Liu Pan , Zhang Haiting , Fan Yongqiang , Xu Dake
Published: September 2023

Microbially influenced corrosion (MIC) is a formidable challenge in the marine industry, resulting from intricate interactions among various biochemical reactions and microbial species. Many preventions used to mitigate biocorrosion fail due to ignorance of the MIC mechanisms. This review provides a summary of the current research on microbial corrosion in marine environments, including corrosive microbes and biocorrosion mechanisms. We also summarized current strategies for inhibiting MIC and proposed future research directions for MIC mechanisms and prevention. This review aims to comprehensively understand marine microbial corrosion and contribute to novel strategy developments for biocorrosion control in marine environments.
Mining Autoimmune-Disorder-Linked Molecular-Mimicry Candidates in Clostridioides difficile and Prospects of Mimic-Based Vaccine Design: An In Silico Approach
Authors: Alshamrani Saleh , Mashraqi Mutaib M. , Alzamami Ahmad , Alturki Norah A. , Almasoudi Hassan H. , Alshahrani Mohammed Abdulrahman , Basharat Zarrin
Published: September 2023

Molecular mimicry, a phenomenon in which microbial or environmental antigens resemble host antigens, has been proposed as a potential trigger for autoimmune responses. In this study, we employed a bioinformatics approach to investigate the role of molecular mimicry in Clostridioides difficile-caused infections and the induction of autoimmune disorders due to this phenomenon. Comparing proteomes of host and pathogen, we identified 23 proteins that exhibited significant sequence homology and were linked to autoimmune disorders. The disorders included rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, Alzheimer’s disease, etc., while infections included viral and bacterial infections like HIV, HCV, and tuberculosis. The structure of the homologous proteins was superposed, and RMSD was calculated to find the maximum deviation, while accounting for rigid and flexible regions. Two sequence mimics (antigenic, non-allergenic, and immunogenic) of ≥10 amino acids from these proteins were used to design a vaccine construct to explore the possibility of eliciting an immune response. Docking analysis of the top vaccine construct C2 showed favorable interactions with HLA and TLR-4 receptor, indicating potential efficacy. The B-cell and T-helper cell activity was also simulated, showing promising results for effective immunization against C. difficile infections. This study highlights the potential of C. difficile to trigger autoimmunity through molecular mimicry and vaccine design based on sequence mimics that trigger a defensive response.
Comparison of the Efficacy of Longer versus Shorter Pulsed High Dose Dapsone Combination Therapy in the Treatment of Chronic Lyme Disease/Post Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome with Bartonellosis and Associated Coinfections
Authors: Horowitz Richard I. , Fallon John , Freeman Phyllis R.
Published: September 2023

Twenty-five patients with relapsing and remitting Borreliosis, Babesiosis, and bartonellosis despite extended anti-infective therapy were prescribed double-dose dapsone combination therapy (DDDCT), followed by one or several courses of High Dose Dapsone Combination Therapy (HDDCT). A retrospective chart review of these 25 patients undergoing DDDCT therapy and HDDCT demonstrated that 100% improved their tick-borne symptoms, and patients completing 6–7 day pulses of HDDCT had superior levels of improvement versus 4-day pulses if Bartonella was present. At the completion of treatment, 7/23 (30.5%) who completed 8 weeks of DDDCT followed by a 5–7 day pulse of HDDCT remained in remission for 3–9 months, and 3/23 patients (13%) who recently finished treatment were 1 ½ months in full remission. In conclusion, DDDCT followed by 6–7 day pulses of HDDCT could represent a novel, effective anti-infective strategy in chronic Lyme disease/Post Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS) and associated co-infections, including Bartonella, especially in individuals who have failed standard antibiotic protocols.
A New Mechanism of Carbon Metabolism and Acetic Acid Balance Regulated by CcpA
Authors: Zhang Yupeng , Xiao Fengxu , Zhang Liang , Ding Zhongyang , Shi Guiyang , Li Youran
Published: September 2023

Catabolite control protein A (CcpA) is a critical regulator in Gram-positive bacteria that orchestrates carbon metabolism by coordinating the utilization of different carbon sources. Although it has been widely proved that CcpA helps prioritize the utilization of glucose over other carbon sources, this global regulator’s precise mechanism of action remains unclear. In this study, a mutant Bacillus licheniformis deleted for CcpA was constructed. Cell growth, carbon utilization, metabolites and the transcription of key enzymes of the mutant strain were compared with that of the wild-type one. It was found that CcpA is involved in the regulation of glucose concentration metabolism in Bacillus. At the same time, CcpA regulates glucose metabolism by inhibiting acetic acid synthesis and pentose phosphate pathway key gene zwF. The conversion rate of acetic acid is increased by about 3.5 times after ccpA is deleted. The present study provides a new mechanism of carbon metabolism and acetic acid balance regulated by CcpA. On the one hand, this work deepens the understanding of the regulatory function of CcpA and provides a new view on the regulation of glucose metabolism. On the other hand, it is helpful to the transformation of B. licheniformis chassis microorganisms.
Epidemiological Characterisation of blaNDM-Positive Enterobacterales from Food-Producing Animal Farms in Southwest China
Authors: Wen Renqiao , Wei Hongcheng , Zhang Tiejun , Ma Peng , Wang Qin , Li Chao , Li Zhonghan , Lei Changwei , Wang Hongning
Published: September 2023

Carbapenems are atypical β-lactam antibiotics with a broade antibacterial spectrum and strong antibacterial activity; however, the emergence and spread of carbapenemases have led to a decline in their effectiveness. New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase (NDM) is an important carbapenemase that has attracted widespread attention and poses a major threat to public health. To investigate the epidemiological characteristics of blaNDM in swine and chicken farms in southwestern China, we isolated 102 blaNDM-positive Enterobacterales strains from 18 farms in Sichuan and Yunnan provinces in 2021, with Escherichia coli and Klebsiella spp. being the main reservoirs of blaNDM, variant blaNDM-5 being the most prevalent, and all strains being multi-drug resistant. Whole-genome sequencing analysis of 102 blaNDM-positive Enterobacterales strains revealed that blaNDM had spread primarily through its carriers on the same farm and among the 18 farms in this study. A high degree of genetic similarity between animal-derived blaNDM-positive Escherichia coli strains and human-derived strains was also identified, suggesting a potential mutual transmission between them. Nanopore sequencing results indicated that blaNDM is predominantly present on the IncX3 plasmid, that an insertion sequence might be important for recombination in the blaNDM genetic environment, and that most of the plasmids carrying blaNDM are transferable. Collectively, our results enrich the current epidemiological information regarding blaNDM in pig and chicken farms in Southwest China, revealing its transmission pattern, as well as the potential risk of transmission to humans, which could help to better understand and control the spread of blaNDM.
Modeling the Characteristic Residues of Chlorophyll f Synthase (ChlF) from Halomicronema hongdechloris to Determine Its Reaction Mechanism
Authors: Chen Min , Sawicki Artur , Wang Fanyue
Published: September 2023

Photosystem II (PSII) is a quinone-utilizing photosynthetic system that converts light energy into chemical energy and catalyzes water splitting. PsbA (D1) and PsbD (D2) are the core subunits of the reaction center that provide most of the ligands to redox-active cofactors and exhibit photooxidoreductase activities that convert quinone and water into quinol and dioxygen. The performed analysis explored the putative uncoupled electron transfer pathways surrounding P680+ induced by far-red light (FRL) based on photosystem II (PSII) complexes containing substituted D1 subunits in Halomicronema hongdechloris. Chlorophyll f-synthase (ChlF) is a D1 protein paralog. Modeling PSII-ChlF complexes determined several key protein motifs of ChlF. The PSII complexes included a dysfunctional Mn4CaO5 cluster where ChlF replaced the D1 protein. We propose the mechanism of chlorophyll f synthesis from chlorophyll a via free radical chemistry in an oxygenated environment created by over-excited pheophytin a and an inactive water splitting reaction owing to an uncoupled Mn4CaO5 cluster in PSII-ChlF complexes. The role of ChlF in the formation of an inactive PSII reaction center is under debate, and putative mechanisms of chlorophyll f biosynthesis are discussed.
Impact of Donepezil Supplementation on Alzheimer’s Disease-like Pathology and Gut Microbiome in APP/PS1 Mice
Authors: Li Yuan , Wu Mengyao , Kong Mengmeng , Sui Shaomei , Wang Qi , He Yan , Gu Jinsong
Published: September 2023

Based on published information, the occurrence and development of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are potentially related to gut microbiota changes. Donepezil hydrochloride (DH), which enhances cholinergic activity by blocking acetylcholinesterase (AChE), is one of the first-line drugs for AD treatment approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the USA. However, the potential link between the effects of DH on the pathophysiological processes of AD and the gut microbiota remains unclear. In this study, pathological changes in the brain and colon, the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and AChE, and changes in intestinal flora were observed. The results showed that Aβ deposition in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus of AD mice was significantly decreased, while colonic inflammation was significantly alleviated by DH treatment. Concomitantly, SOD activity was significantly improved, while AChE was significantly reduced after DH administration. In addition, the gut microbiota community composition of AD mice was significantly altered after DH treatment. The relative abundance of Akkermansia in the AD group was 54.8% higher than that in the N group. The relative abundance of Akkermansia was increased by 18.3% and 53.8% in the AD_G group and the N_G group, respectively. Interestingly, Akkermansia showed a potential predictive value and might be a biomarker for AD. Molecular docking revealed the binding mode and major forces between DH and membrane proteins of Akkermansia. The overall results suggest a novel therapeutic mechanism for treating AD and highlight the critical role of gut microbiota in AD pathology.
Mineralogical Characteristics of Hematitic Iron Ore: A Geometallurgical Study on Ore from Eastern India
Authors: Mahanta Chita , Sahoo Prabodha , Mohanta Manoj , Rath Rajendra , Dey Shobhana , Tripathy Sunil , Prasad Jitendra , Venkatesh Akella
Published: September 2023

After being subjected to geometallurgical evaluation, the iron ores from Singhbhum Bonai-Keonjhar region, eastern India, have been designated as dense martite microplaty hematite high-strength ore (dM-mH-hs ore), massive dense martite microplaty hematite high-strength ore (mdM-mH-hs ore), schistose microplaty hematite low-strength ore (smH-ls ore), microplaty hematite powdery ore (mH-p ore), vitreous goethitic ore (vG ore), and ochreous goethitic ore (oG ore) end members, with varied strengths attributed to the microporosity levels. The first four variants form typical high-grade run-of-mines (ROMs) (hard, soft and powdery iron ore variants, e.g., ROM-HIO, ROM-SSIO, and ROM-PBD, respectively) with better amenability to beneficiation. In contrast, oG and vG ore end members form ROM lateritic iron ore (ROM-LIO) with poor amenability to beneficiation, having relatively higher concentrates of alumina (~3–6 wt%) due to the complex mineral chemistry of goethite and altered hematite. Banded hematite jasper (BHJ) is a very low-grade siliceous end member. In a mining operation, the ROMs may have the attributes of several combinations of the above-stated end members and ROM variants. The designated end members present in the ROMs determine their liberation, mineralogical processes, geometallurgical characteristics, amenability to beneficiation, product grade and recovery.
Geological Significance of Rare Earth Elements in Marine Shale of the Upper Permian Dalong Formation in the Lower Yangtze Region, South China
Authors: Fang Chaogang , Zhang Chengcheng , Huang Ning , Teng Long , Li Chunhai , Shao Wei , Zeng Min
Published: September 2023

The rare earth elements (REEs) provide significant geological information and serve as a reliable indicator for predicting the paleoclimate, paleoenvironment, and paleotectonic evolution of sedimentary rocks. The REEs, major elements, and trace elements of 75 marine shale samples collected from the Late Permian Dalong Formation at the Fantiansi (FTS) and Putaoling (PTL) sections in the Lower Yangtze region were analyzed. The results revealed that the major elements Al2O3, K2O, and TiO2 were primarily influenced by clay minerals associated with terrigenous detrital, whereas SiO2 and Na2O were not affected by clay minerals. The ΣREE values obtained from the Late Permian Dalong Formation at the Fantiansi (FTS) and Putaoling (PTL) sections in the Lower Yangtze region were found to be lower than those of the Post-Archean Average Shale (PAAS) (184.8 μg/g). The study of REE indicators related to the source, redox conditions, and tectonic settings led to the following conclusions: (a) ΣREE showed strong positive correlations with TiO2, Al2O3, K2O, and Na2O, but exhibited relatively weak correlations with Fe2O3 and P2O5, suggesting that REEs were mainly associated with clay minerals, but were also influenced by pyrite, phosphates, and other minerals; (b) The high values of Ce/Ce*, MoEF, UEF, and Corg/P were mainly concentrated in Stages I, II, III and V of the Dalong Formation at the FTS and PTL sections, and the corresponding strong anoxic environment was more conducive to the preservation of organic matter; (c) The diagram between La/Yb and ΣREE, Al2O3-TiO2, TiO2-Zr, and La/Th-Hf bivariate diagrams indicated that the provenance of the rocks from the Dalong formations was primarily felsic igneous rocks; (d) Discriminant-function diagrams and La-Th-Sc, Th-Sc-Zr/10 and Th-Co-Zr/10 triangular diagrams show that the clastic sediments of the Dalong formations were derived most likely from continental island arcs. This study corresponds to the background of the transition from continental margin to continental collision structure in South China during the Late Permian.
Descriptive Process Mineralogy to Evaluate Physical Enrichment Potential of Malatya/Kuluncak Rare Earth Ore through MLA
Authors: Ersoy Burakhan , Beşirli Mehmet Umut , Topal Selim , Sözer Belma Soydaş , Burat Fırat
Published: September 2023

Rare earth elements (REE) are indispensable for industries such as magnetic, phosphorus, metal alloys, catalysts, ceramics, glass, polishing and defense systems due to their unique physical and chemical properties. Currently, China is the largest supplier in the world, accounting for production of more than 95% of the world’s rare earth oxides (REO). To reduce the influence of China on the REE market, some countries have started to develop their own national strategies for the production and use of REE-bearing resources. Within the scope of this study, particle size, chemical, MLA, XRD, and SEM-EDS analysis were performed for material characterization, and shaking table, centrifugal, and magnetic separations were carried out for the beneficiation of Malatya/Kuluncak rare earth ore. The XRD analysis indicated that the representative sample consisted of major minerals such as albite, calcite, montmorillonite, muscovite, titanite, kaolinite, clinochlore, and aegirine. Parisite, bastnaesite, Zr-REE-Silicate, Fe-REE-Oxide, and Ca-Ti-Nb-REE-Oxide were detected as REE-bearing minerals by MLA. The chemical analysis resulted in a ∑REO grade of 3628 g/t, and the ore consisted mostly of light REEs. According to the results of the gravity separation for the coarsest fraction, about 11.3% by weight of the total feed was concentrated as a heavy product with 6437 g/t ∑REO content. As a result of magnetic separation, magnetic products with 5561 g/t and 6013 g/t ∑REO were obtained as coarse and fine fractions, respectively. Finally, the characterization studies and enrichment results were correlated, and very important and meaningful indications about the behavior of REE-bearing minerals were obtained.
Chitosan–Glycolic Acid Gel Modification of Chloride Ion Transport in Mammalian Skin: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Zavyalova Olga , Dąbrowska-Wisłocka Dominika , Misiura Konrad , Hołyńska-Iwan Iga
Published: September 2023

Chitosan, a polyaminosaccharide with high medical and cosmetic potential, can be combined with the beneficial properties of glycolic acid to form a gel that not only moisturizes the skin, but also has a regenerative effect. Its involvement in the activation of biochemical processes may be associated with the activity of skin ion channels. Therefore, the aim of the research was to evaluate the immediate (15 s) and long-term (24 h) effect of chitosan–glycolic acid gel (CGG) on the transepithelial electric potential and the transepithelial electric resistance (R) of skin specimens tested in vitro. Stimulation during immediate and prolonged application of CGG to skin specimens resulted in a significant decrease in the measured minimal transepithelial electric potential (PDmin). The absence of any change in the R after the CGG application indicates that it does not affect the skin transmission, or cause distortion, microdamage or changes in ion permeability. However, the reduction in potential may be due to the increased transport of chloride ions, and thus water, from outside the cell into the cell interior. Increased secretion of chloride ions is achieved by stimulating the action of the CFTR (cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance). It can be assumed that chitosan gently stimulates the secretion of chlorides, while maintaining a tendency to reduce the transport of sodium ions, without causing deformation or tissue damage.
Optimization of Enzyme−Assisted Aqueous Extraction of Polysaccharide from Acanthopanax senticosus and Comparison of Physicochemical Properties and Bioactivities of Polysaccharides with Different Molecular Weights
Authors: Wang Xueyan , Su Yuanyuan , Su Jianqing , Xue Jiaojiao , Zhang Rui , Li Xiaoli , Li Ying , Ding Yi , Chu Xiuling
Published: September 2023

To obtain the optimal process for the enzyme−assisted aqueous extraction of polysaccharides from Acanthopanax senticosus, and study the physicochemical properties of polysaccharides of different molecular weights, the extraction of Acanthopanax polysaccharides was optimized using the BBD response surface test. The polysaccharides with different molecular weights were obtained by ethanol−graded precipitation at 40%, 60%, and 80%, which were presented as ASPS40, ASPS60, and ASPS80. The polysaccharides were analyzed by HPGPC, ion chromatography, FT−IR, UV, SEM, TGA, XRD, Congo red, and I2−KI tests. The antioxidant assay was used to evaluate their antioxidant properties in vitro. The findings demonstrated that the recovery rate of Acanthopanax polysaccharide was 10.53 ± 0.682%, which is about 2.5 times greater compared to the conventional method of hot water extraction. Based on FT−IR, TGA, polysaccharides with different molecular weights did not differ in their structure or thermal stability. The XRD suggests that the internal structure of ASPSs is amorphous. Congo red and I2−KI showed that all three polysaccharides had triple helix structures with longer branched chains and more side chains. Furthermore, the antioxidant results showed the antioxidant activity of polysaccharides is not only related to the molecular weight size but also can be related to its composition and structure. These studies developed a green, and scalable method to produce polysaccharides from Acanthopanax senticosus and evaluated the properties of Acanthopanax polysaccharides of different molecular weights.
Determination of Calcium in Meat Products by Automatic Titration with 1,2-Diaminocyclohexane-N,N,N’,N’-tetraacetic Acid
Authors: Shyichuk Alexander , Kowalska Maria , Shyychuk Iryna , Lamkiewicz Jan , Ziółkowska Dorota
Published: September 2023

Mechanically separated meat (MSM) is a by-product of the poultry industry that requires routine quality assessment. Calcium content is an indirect indicator of bone debris in MSM but is difficult to determine by EDTA titration due to the poor solubility of calcium phosphate. Therefore, 1,2-diaminocyclohexane-N,N,N’,N’-tetraacetic acid was used instead, which has two orders of magnitude higher affinity for calcium ions. In addition, the auxiliary complexing agents triethanolamine and Arsenazo III, an indicator that is sensitive to low calcium concentrations, were used. Automatic titration endpoint detection was performed using an immersion probe at 660 nm. It has been shown that the color change in Arsenazo III can also be read with an RGB camera. The CDTA titration procedure has been tested on commercial Bologna-type sausages and the results were in line with AAS and ICP reference data. The content of calcium in sausages turned out to be very diverse and weakly correlated with the content of MSM. The tested MSM samples had a wide range of calcium content: from 62 to 2833 ppm. Calcium-rich poultry by-products include fat and skin (115 to 412 ppm), articular cartilage (1069 to 1704 ppm), and tendons (532 to 34,539 ppm). The CDTA titration procedure is fully suitable for small meat processing plants due to its simplicity of use and low cost.
Sugar Alcohol Sweetener Production by Yarrowia lipolytica Grown in Media Containing Glycerol
Authors: Juszczyk Piotr , Rywińska Anita , Kosicka Julia , Tomaszewska-Hetman Ludwika , Rymowicz Waldemar
Published: September 2023

Most of the world’s annual production of mannitol is by chemical means, but, due to increasing demand for natural sweeteners, alternative production methods are being sought. The aim of the study was to screen Yarrowia lipolytica yeast strains and select culture conditions for the efficient and selective biosynthesis of mannitol from glycerol. From 21 strains examined in the shake-flask culture for mannitol biosynthesis from glycerol (100 g/L), three strains were selected—S2, S3, and S4—and further evaluated in batch bioreactor cultures with technical and raw glycerol (150 g/L). The best production parameters were observed for strain S3, which additionally was found to be the most resistant to NaCl concentration. Next, strain S3 was examined in batch culture with regard to the initial glycerol concentration (from 50 to 250 g/L). It was found that the substrate concentrations of 50 and 75 g/L resulted in the highest mannitol selectivity, about 70%. The fed-batch culture system proposed in this paper (performed in two variants in which glycerol was dosed in four portions of about 50 or 75 g/L) resulted in increased mannitol production, up to 78.5 g/L.
A Portable Device for I–V and Arrhenius Plots to Characterize Chemoresistive Gas Sensors: Test on SnO2-Based Sensors
Authors: Astolfi Michele , Zonta Giulia , Gherardi Sandro , Malagù Cesare , Vincenzi Donato , Rispoli Giorgio
Published: September 2023

Chemoresistive nanostructured gas sensors are employed in many diverse applications in the medical, industrial, environmental, etc. fields; therefore, it is crucial to have a device that is able to quickly calibrate and characterize them. To this aim, a portable, user-friendly device designed to easily calibrate a sensor in laboratory and/or on field is introduced here. The device comprises a small hermetically sealed chamber (containing the sensor socket and a temperature/humidity sensor), a pneumatic system, and a custom electronics controlled by a Raspberry Pi 4 developing board, running a custom software (Version 1.0) whose user interface is accessed via a multitouch-screen. This device automatically characterizes the sensor heater in order to precisely set the desired working temperature, it acquires and plots the sensor current-to-voltage and Arrhenius relationships on the touch screen, and it can record the sensor responses to different gases and environments. These tests were performed in dry air on two representative sensors based on widely used SnO2 material. The device demonstrated the independence of the Arrhenius plot from the film applied voltage and the linearity of the I–Vs, which resulted from the voltage step length (1–30 min) and temperature (200–550 °C).
Salt-Intake-Related Behavior Varies between Sexes and Is Strongly Associated with Daily Salt Consumption in Obese Patients at High Risk for MASLD
Authors: Heller Bianca , Reiter Florian P. , Leicht Hans Benno , Fiessler Cornelia , Bergheim Ina , Heuschmann Peter U. , Geier Andreas , Rau Monika
Published: September 2023

Background: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) imposes a significant burden on Westernized regions. The Western diet, high in salt intake, significantly contributes to disease development. However, there are a lack of data on salt literacy and salt intake among MASLD patients in Germany. Our study aims to analyze daily salt intake and salt-intake-related behavior in MASLD patients. Methods: 234 MASLD patients were prospectively included. Daily salt intake and salt-intake-related behavior were assessed via a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ—DEGS) and a salt questionnaire (SINU). Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS. Results: Mean daily salt intake was higher in men than in women (7.3 ± 5 g/d vs. 5.3 ± 4 g/d; p < 0.001). There was significant agreement between increased daily salt intake (>6 g/d) and the behavioral salt index (SI) (p < 0.001). Men exhibited higher SI scores compared to women, indicating lower awareness of salt in everyday life. Multivariate analysis identified specific salt-intake-related behaviors impacting daily salt consumption. Conclusions: Our study reveals a strong link between daily salt intake and salt-intake-related behavior, highlighting sex-specific differences in an MASLD cohort. To enhance patient care in high-cardiovascular-risk populations, specific behavioral approaches may be considered, including salt awareness, to improve adherence to lifestyle changes, particularly in male patients.