bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Food Safety Knowledge and Attitudes: A Cross-Sectional Study among Saudi Consumers from Food Trucks Owned by Productive Families
Authors: Alhashim Latifah A. , Alshahrani Najim Z. , Alshahrani Amal M. , Khalil Shamsun Nahar , Alrubayii Muneera A. , Alateeq Sarah K. , Zakaria Ossama Mohammed
Published: April 2022

Food businesses, such as food trucks (FTs) and family producers have grown rapidly and become popular with people in Saudi Arabia. As foodborne diseases are still a public health concern in the country, consumers should be aware of the safety of foods sold by food trucks. Since there is a dearth of literature, this study aimed to assess the knowledge and attitudes of consumers of food from FTs owned by family producers regarding food safety and foodborne disease. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 921 consumers of food from FTs from two cities in the southern region of Saudi Arabia. Data were collected using an online questionnaire from September to November 2021. Finally, multiple linear regression and a logistic regression model were used to identify the predictors of knowledge and attitude regarding food safety and foodborne illness, respectively. Overall, respondents had moderate knowledge and higher positive attitudes regarding food safety and foodborne illness. Respondents’ knowledge about the potential harm and attitudes towards the safety of foods sold by FTs were significantly associated with marital status, education level, and monthly family income. The findings of this study highlight the need to improve the knowledge, awareness, and attitudes of Saudi consumers of food from FTs owned by family producers on food safety and foodborne illness through intervention programs, particularly targeting consumers with lower educational attainments and income status, to control foodborne diseases.
A Layered Adopter-Structure Model for the Download of COVID-19 Contact Tracing Apps: A System Dynamics Study for mHealth Penetration
Authors: Niwa Makoto , Lim Yeongjoo , Sengoku Shintaro , Kodama Kota
Published: April 2022

(1) Background: Contact tracing and notification apps for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are installed on smartphones and are intended to detect contact with another person’s device. A high installation rate is important for these apps to enable them to be effective countermeasures against the silent transmission of diseases. However, the installation rate varies among apps and regions and the penetration dynamics of these applications are unclear. (2) Methods: The download behavior of contact tracing applications was investigated using publicly available datasets. The increase in downloads was modeled using a system dynamics model derived from the product growth model. (3) Results: The imitation effects present in the traditional product growth model were not observed in COVID-19 contact tracing apps. The system dynamics model, without the imitation effect, identified the downloads of the Australian COVIDSafe app. The system dynamics model, with a layered adopter, identified the downloads of the Japanese tracing app COCOA. The spread of COVID-19 and overall anti-COVID-19 government intervention measures in response to the spread of infection seemed to result in an increase in downloads. (4) Discussion: The suggested layered structure of users implied that individualized promotion for each layer was important. Addressing the issues among users who are skeptical about adoption is pertinent for optimal penetration of the apps.
Mechanism for Reducing the Horizontal Transfer Risk of the Airborne Antibiotic-Resistant Genes of Escherichia coli Species through Microwave or UV Irradiation
Authors: Laghari Azhar Ali , Liu Liming , Kalhoro Dildar Hussain , Chen Hong , Wang Can
Published: April 2022

Antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARBs) and antibiotic-resistant genes (ARGs) as new types of contaminants are discharged into the environment, increasing the risk of horizontal gene transfer (HGT). However, few researchers have examined the impacts of airborne ARB deactivation on HGT risk. The deactivation of airborne Escherichia coli 10667 (carrying sul genes) and the emission and removal of ARGs were mainly investigated in this study. Moreover, the potential mechanisms of HGT and transfer frequencies under microwave (MW) and ultraviolet (UV) irradiation were investigated using the nonresistant E. coli GMCC 13373 and E. coli DH5α with plasmid RP4 as the recipient and donor, respectively. E. coli CICC 10667 and E. coli DH5α with RP4 plasmid achieve log inactivation values as high as 5.5-log and 5.0-log, respectively, which were quite different from the antibiotic-sensitive strain E. coli CGMCC 13373 (3.4-log) subjected to MW irradiation. For UV disinfection, E. coli DH5α with the RP4 plasmid was reduced at 4.4-log, E. coli CGMCC 13373 was reduced at 2.3-log, and E. coli CICC 10667 was inactivated at 2.1-log. The removal rates of ARGs and HGT frequencies under MW irradiation were compared with those under UV irradiation. The ARGs removal efficiency (85.5%) obtained by MW was higher than that obtained by UV (48.2%). Consequently, the HGT frequency (0.008) of airborne ARGs released to the recipient (forward transfer) decreased and was lower than that under UV irradiation (0.014). Moreover, the plasmid RP4 was transferred from the donor to the surviving damaged E. coli 10667 as cell permeability (reverse transfer) was increased at a high HGT frequency (0.003) by MW, which was close to the value by UV (0.002). Additionally, sul1 and sul2 genes were confirmed to be more resistant to MW than the sul3 gene. These findings reveal the mechanism of HGT between damaged E. coli 10667 and surrounding environmental microbes. Microwave is a promising technology for disinfecting airborne microbes and preventing the spread of antibiotic resistance.
Temporal and Spatial Distribution Analysis of Atmospheric Pollutants in Chengdu–Chongqing Twin-City Economic Circle
Authors: Qi Ning , Tan Xuemei , Wu Tengfei , Tang Qing , Ning Fengshou , Jiang Debin , Xu Tengtun , Wu Hong , Ren Lingxiao , Deng Wei
Published: April 2022

In order to study the temporal and spatial distribution characteristics of atmospheric pollutants in cities (districts and counties) in the Chengdu–Chongqing Twin-city Economic Circle (CCEC) and to provide a theoretical basis for atmospheric pollution prevention and control, this paper combined Ambient Air Quality Standards (AAQS) and WHO Global Air Quality Guidelines (GAQG) to evaluate atmospheric pollution and used spatial correlation to determine key pollution areas. The results showed that the distribution of atmospheric pollutants in CCEC presents a certain law, which was consistent with the air pollution transmission channels. Except for particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter equal to or less than 2.5 μm (PM2.5) and ozone (O3), other pollutants reached Grade II of AAQS in 2020, among which particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter equal to or less than 10 μm (PM10), PM2.5, sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and carbon monoxide (CO) have improved. Compared with the air quality guidelines given in the GAQG, PM10, PM2.5, NO2 and O3 have certain effects on human health. The spatial aggregation of PM10 and PM2.5 decreased year by year, while the spatial aggregation of O3 increased with the change in time, and the distribution of NO2 pollution had no obvious aggregation. Comprehensive analysis showed that the pollution problems of particulate matter, NO2 and O3 in CCEC need to be further controlled.
Multi-Strategy Assessment of Different Uses of QSAR under REACH Analysis of Alternatives to Advance Information Transparency
Authors: Chinen Kazue , Malloy Timothy
Published: April 2022

Under the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) analysis of alternatives (AoA) process, quantitative structure–activity relationship (QSAR) models play an important role in expanding information gathering and organizing frameworks. Increasingly recognized as an alternative to testing under registration. QSARs have become a relevant tool in bridging data gaps and supporting weight of evidence (WoE) when assessing alternative substances. Additionally, QSARs are growing in importance in integrated testing strategies (ITS). For example, the REACH ITS framework for specific endpoints directs registrants to consider non-testing results, including QSAR predictions, when deciding if further animal testing is needed. Despite the raised profile of QSARs in these frameworks, a gap exists in the evaluation of QSAR use and QSAR documentation under authorization. An assessment of the different uses (e.g., WoE and ITS) in which QSAR predictions play a role in evidence gathering and organizing remains unaddressed for AoA. This study approached the disparity in information for QSAR predictions by conducting a substantive review of 24 AoA through May 2017, which contained higher-tier endpoints under REACH. Understanding the manner in which applicants manage QSAR prediction information in AoA and assessing their potential within ITS will be valuable in promoting regulatory use of QSARs and building out future platforms in the face of rapidly evolving technology while advancing information transparency.
Mechanism of Action of an Environmentally Relevant Organochlorine Mixture in Repressing Steroid Hormone Biosynthesis in Leydig Cells
Authors: Enangue Njembele Annick N. , Demmouche Zoheir B. , Bailey Janice L. , Tremblay Jacques J.
Published: April 2022

Within Leydig cells, steroidogenesis is induced by the pituitary luteinizing hormone (LH). The binding of LH to its receptor increases cAMP production, which then activates the expression of genes involved in testosterone biosynthesis. One of these genes codes for the steroidogenic acute regulatory (STAR) protein. STAR is part of a complex that shuttles cholesterol, the precursor of all steroid hormones, through the mitochondrial membrane where steroidogenesis is initiated. Organochlorine chemicals (OCs) are environmental persistent organic pollutants that are found at high concentrations in Arctic areas. OCs are known to affect male reproductive health by decreasing semen quality in different species, including humans. We previously showed that an environmentally relevant mixture of OCs found in Northern Quebec disrupts steroidogenesis by decreasing STAR protein levels without affecting the transcription of the gene. We hypothesized that OCs might affect STAR protein stability. To test this, MA-10 Leydig cell lines were incubated for 6 h with vehicle or the OCs mixture in the presence or absence of 8Br-cAMP with or without MG132, an inhibitor of protein degradation. We found that MG132 prevented the OC-mediated decrease in STAR protein levels following 8Br-cAMP stimulation. However, progesterone production was still decreased by the OC mixture, even in the presence of MG132. This suggested that proteins involved in steroid hormone production in addition to STAR are also affected by the OC mixture. To identify these proteins, a whole cell approach was used and total proteins from MA-10 Leydig cells exposed to the OC mixture with or without stimulation with 8Br-cAMP were analyzed by 2D SDS-PAGE and LC-MS/MS. Bioinformatics analyses revealed that several proteins involved in numerous biological processes are affected by the OC mixture, including proteins involved in mitochondrial transport, lipid metabolism, and steroidogenesis.
The Relevance in the Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio and the SARC-F Score in Gastrointestinal Diseases
Authors: Yamasaki Eiki , Nishikawa Hiroki , Goto Masahiro , Matsui Masahiro , Asai Akira , Ushiro Kosuke , Ogura Takeshi , Takeuchi Toshihisa , Nakamura Shiro , Kakimoto Kazuki , Miyazaki Takako , Fukunishi Shinya , Ohama Hideko , Yokohama Keisuke , Yasuoka Hidetaka , Higuchi Kazuhide
Published: April 2022

We sought to clarify the relevance in the neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and the SARC-F score in patients with gastrointestinal diseases (G-Ds, n = 672, median age = 73 years). Univariate and multivariate analysis for the SARC-F score were performed. Advanced malignancy was identified in 162 patients (24.1%). The median of NLR for all cases was 2.65. The median of NLR in ECOG-PS 0 (n = 436), 1 (n = 128), 2 (n = 49) and 3 or 4 (n = 59) was 2.26, 2.97, 4.41 and 5.99 (overall p < 0.0001). NLR had a significant correlation with the SARC-F score (r = 0.54, p < 0.0001). The median of NLR in the SARC-F score ≥4 (recommended value for sarcopenia, n = 84) and <4 (n = 588) was 5.87 and 2.48 (p < 0.0001). In all subgroup analyses, similar trends were seen. In the multivariate analysis, ECOG-PS (p < 0.0001) and NLR (p < 0.0001) were independent factors, while age had a trend for significance (p = 0.0686). In conclusion, we would like to emphasize the usefulness of NLR, a simple marker assessed only by blood tests, in predicting the possibility for sarcopenia by the SARC-F in G-Ds.
Dilated Generative Adversarial Networks for Underwater Image Restoration
Authors: Lin Jao-Chuan , Hsu Chih-Bin , Lee Jen-Chun , Chen Chung-Hsien , Tu Te-Ming
Published: April 2022

Underwater images often come with blurriness, lack of contrast, and low saturation due to the physics of light propagation, absorption, and scattering in seawater. To improve the visual quality of underwater images, many have proposed image processing methods that vary based on different approaches. We use a generative adversarial network (GAN)-based solution and generate high-quality underwater images equivalent to given raw underwater images by training our network to specify the differences between high-quality and raw underwater images. In our proposed method, which is called dilated GAN (DGAN), we add an additional loss function using structural similarity. Moreover, this method can not only determine the realness of the entire image but also functions with classification ability on each constituent pixel in the discriminator. Finally, using two different datasets, we compare the proposed model with other enhancement methods. We conduct several comparisons and demonstrate via full-reference and nonreference metrics that the proposed approach is able to simultaneously improve clarity and correct color and restores the visual quality of the images acquired in typical underwater scenarios.
Theoretical Investigation on the Optimal Contracting for Directors Holding Multiple Directorships
Authors: Lin Guoyu , Brown Anna
Published: April 2022

This paper is the first (to our knowledge) to analytically model the optimal contracting for a member of the board of directors who holds multiple directorships. Prior literature has found conflicting evidence on the overall effect of multiple directorships on shareholder welfare: busy board members are usually detrimental to firm operating performance due to the limited time and effort they are able to devote to each board; however, multiple directorships can be beneficial to firms if the board members gain knowledge and expertise through their multiple appointments. The objective of our study is to expand the research on the effects of multiple directorships on shareholder welfare by modeling the relationship between optimal incentives (pay–performance sensitivity) and the number of directorships. Modeling within the Linear–Exponential–Normal framework, and solving using Subgame-Perfect Nash Equilibrium, we find that this relationship is positive when efforts across directorships are either substitutive or complementary, which highlights another potential significant downside to multiple directorships: companies need to offer high incentive-based pay to compete for directors’ efforts, leading to high-risk premia and welfare loss to shareholders. Our results may be of interest to policy makers considering setting limits on the number of board seats that may be held by directors at public companies, as well as shareholders considering appointing directors with multiple appointments.
Do or Die? The Effects of COVID-19 on Channel Integration and Digital Transformation of Large Clothing and Apparel Retailers in Spain
Authors: Acquila-Natale Emiliano , Chaparro-Peláez Julián , Del-Río-Carazo Laura , Cuenca-Enrique Carlos
Published: April 2022

COVID-19 has undeniably impacted the retail industry sectors; we are now witnessing the emergence of a large body of research on the effects of the pandemic in retailing. However, few of these studies provide a clear picture of this topic from prior to and after COVID-19. This research sheds light on whether large retailers have adapted their channels by offering integrated and digital services amid the new conditions forced on them. This study assesses indicators of channel integration and digital transformation of all large clothing and apparel retailers in Spain—before and after COVID-19—and analyzes the differences by means of McNemar’s test and one-way repeated-measures ANOVA. The analysis suggests that large retailers were moderately prepared to provide multichannel and omnichannel services and that they focused on integrating quick and easy-to-implement services, such as omnichannel gift cards, or communicating via WhatsApp for customer care services. The study also identifies elements in which large clothing brands should prioritize on after the pandemic to effectively deploy omnichannel strategies.
Effects of Electrical Stimulation on the Signal Transduction-Related Proteins, c-Src and Focal Adhesion Kinase, in Fibroblasts
Authors: Katoh Kazuo
Published: April 2022

Electrical stimulation of the skin and muscles, e.g., in the fields of rehabilitation medicine and acupuncture, is known to locally increase blood flow and metabolism, and thus have beneficial health effects. However, little is known about the changes in cellular morphology or regulation of the localization of specific proteins in response to electrical stimuli. The present study was performed to examine the effects of electrical stimulation on the cytoskeletal system of cultured fibroblasts. Following application of electrical stimulation to cultured fibroblastic cells for a period of about 2 h, the stress fibers in the cells became thicker and the cells showed a contracted appearance. Cells were subjected to periodic electrical stimulation for 0 (unstimulated control), 2, 5, or 20 h. The stress fibers showed an increase in thickness within 2 h, and became gradually thicker until 20 h. In addition, the focal adhesions and stress fibers were enlarged after 2 h of continuous stimulation, and both stress fibers and focal adhesions became larger and thicker after 20 h of periodic stimulation. Cells showed increased staining of focal adhesions with anti-phosphotyrosine antibody (PY-20) after electrical stimulation. Cells also showed increased staining of tyrosine-phosphorylated focal adhesion kinase (FAK) (pY397) and tyrosine-phosphorylated c-Src (pY418), indicating that electrical stimulation affected signal transduction-related proteins.
Mathematical Modeling and Experimental Substantiation of the Gas Release Process in the Production of Non-Autoclaved Aerated Concrete
Authors: Shcherban’ Evgenii M. , Stel’makh Sergey A. , Beskopylny Alexey , Mailyan Levon R. , Meskhi Besarion , Shuyskiy Anatoly , Beskopylny Nikita , Dotsenko Natal’ya
Published: April 2022

The widespread use of aerated concrete in construction has led to the emergence of many types and compositions. However, additional research should fill theoretical gaps in the phenomenon of gas release during the formation of the structure of aerated concrete. Based on theoretical analysis and experimental studies, the article proposes a mathematical model of the swelling process based on the physicochemical laws of convection and molecular diffusion of hydrogen from a mixture and the conditions of swelling, precipitation, and stabilization of the mixture. An improved method for the manufacture of aerated concrete is proposed, which consists of introducing cement pre-hydrated for 20–30 min into the composition of the aerated concrete mixture and providing improved gas-holding capacity and increased swelling of the mixture, reducing the average density of aerated concrete up to 29% and improving heat-shielding properties up to 31%. At the same time, the small dynamics of a decrease in the strength properties of aerated concrete were observed, which is confirmed by an increased structural quality factor (CSQ) of up to 13%. As a result, aerated concrete has been obtained that meets the requirements of environmental friendliness and has improved mechanical and physical characteristics. Economic efficiency is to reduce the cost of production of aerated concrete and construction in general by about 15%.
Influence of Polyurea Coatings on Low-Longitudinal-Reinforcement-Ratio Reinforced Concrete Beams Subjected to Bending
Authors: Szafran Jacek , Matusiak Artur , Rzeszut Katarzyna , Jankowiak Iwona
Published: April 2022

“Polyurea coatings as a possible structural reinforcement system” is a research investigation that aims to explore the possible applications of polyurea coatings for improving structural performance (including steel, concrete, timber and other structures used in the construction industry). As part of the research in this field, this paper focuses on evaluating the performance of bending polyurea-coated reinforced concrete (RC) beams with a low reinforcement ratio. The easy application and numerous advantages of polyurea can prove very useful when existing RC structural elements are repaired or retrofitted. Laboratory tests of RC beams were performed for the purpose of this paper. The failure mechanisms and cracking patterns of these specimens are described, and their bending strengths were compared. On this basis, the effect of the coating on bending strength and the performance of the reinforced beams at the serviceability limit state (SLS) was examined and analyzed. The results showed that the use of a polyurea coating has a positive impact on the cracking and deflection state of RC beams and makes it possible to safely use RC elements on a continuous basis under high levels of load.
Recent Advance and Modification Strategies of Transition Metal Dichalcogenides (TMDs) in Aqueous Zinc Ion Batteries
Authors: Li Tao , Li Haixin , Yuan Jingchen , Xia Yong , Liu Yuejun , Sun Aokui
Published: April 2022

In recent years, aqueous zinc ion batteries (ZIBs) have attracted much attention due to their high safety, low cost, and environmental friendliness. Owing to the unique layered structure and more desirable layer spacing, transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) materials are considered as the comparatively ideal cathode material of ZIBs which facilitate the intercalation/ deintercalation of hydrated Zn2+ between layers. However, some disadvantages limit their widespread application, such as low conductivity, low reversible capacity, and rapid capacity decline. In order to improve the electrochemical properties of TMDs, the corresponding modification methods for each TMDs material can be designed from the following modification strategies: defect engineering, intercalation engineering, hybrid engineering, phase engineering, and in-situ electrochemical oxidation. This paper summarizes the research progress of TMDs as cathode materials for ZIBs in recent years, discusses and compares the electrochemical properties of TMD materials, and classifies and introduces the modification methods of MoS2 and VS2. Meanwhile, the corresponding modification scheme is proposed to solve the problem of rapid capacity fading of WS2. Finally, the research prospect of other TMDs as cathodes for ZIBs is put forward.
Processability of a Hot Work Tool Steel Powder Mixture in Laser-Based Powder Bed Fusion
Authors: Hantke Nick , Großwendt Felix , Strauch Anna , Fechte-Heinen Rainer , Röttger Arne , Theisen Werner , Weber Sebastian , Sehrt Jan Torsten
Published: April 2022

Powder bed fusion of metals using a laser beam system (PBF-LB/M) of highly complex and filigree parts made of tool steels is becoming more important for many industrial applications and scientific investigations. To achieve high density and sufficient chemical homogeneity, pre-alloyed gas-atomized spherical powder feedstock is used. For high-performance materials such as tool steels, the number of commercially available starting powders is limited due to the susceptibility to crack formation in carbon-bearing steels. Furthermore, scientific alloy development in combination with gas-atomization is a cost-intensive process which requires high experimental effort. To overcome these drawbacks, this investigation describes the adaption of a hot work tool steel for crack-free PBF-LB/M-fabrication without any preheating as well as an alternative alloying strategy which implies the individual admixing of low-cost aspherical elemental powders and ferroalloy particles with gas-atomized pure iron powder. It is shown that the PBF-LB/M-fabrication of this powder mixture is technically feasible, even though the partly irregular-shaped powder particles reduce the flowability and the laser reflectance compared to a gas-atomized reference powder. Moreover, some high-melting alloying ingredients of the admixed powder remain unmolten within the microstructure. To analyze the laser energy input in detail, the second part of the investigation focuses on the characterization of the individual laser light reflectance of the admixed alloy, the gas-atomized reference powder and the individual alloying elements and ferroalloys.
Identification of the Fracture Process in Gas Pipeline Steel Based on the Analysis of AE Signals
Authors: Świt Grzegorz , Dzioba Ihor , Adamczak-Bugno Anna , Krampikowska Aleksandra
Published: April 2022

The paper presents the results of tests conducted to identify the damage process in specimens collected from the steel of a gas pipeline. The tests concerned specimens made of S235 steel subject to quasi-static loading—uniaxial tension until failure. Acoustic emission (AE) signals were recorded during the loading process along with force and elongation signals. Sections were collected from previously loaded specimens and subjected to microstructural examinations to determine the nature of material damage at different strain stages. The recorded AE signals were analyzed using the k-means clustering method, as well as time-frequency analysis. The results of metallographic tests and analysis of AE signals identified frequency spectra characteristic of different stages of the process of material damage.
Effects of Carrier, Leveller, and Booster Concentrations on Zinc Plating from Alkaline Zincate Baths
Authors: Mohammed Abdul Jalil , Moats Michael
Published: April 2022

Organic additives are required for alkaline zincate plating baths to obtain an acceptable coating on steel for corrosion protection. The effects and possible interactions of three commercial additives (Eldiem Carrier, Eldiem Booster, and Bright Enhancer 2× on zinc electrodeposition from a high-concentration alkaline zincate bath were investigated. Visually acceptable deposits were produced within the current density range of 130 to 430 A m−2 for most additive conditions examined. Over concentration ranges examined, decreasing the booster concentration led to brighter zinc deposits, and an interaction between the carrier and the booster was detected. The additives fostered the formation of compact and adherent coatings as illustrated by scanning electron microscopy. Throwing power and current efficiency were not impacted by the additives over the concentration ranges examined. Linear sweep voltammetry proved that the additives increased the overpotential for zinc deposition. The additive combination that produced the brightest deposit also demonstrated the strongest adsorption of additives in linear sweep voltammetry.
Investigation of Through-Thickness Residual Stress, Microstructure and Texture in Radial Forged High-Strength Alloy Steel Tubes
Authors: Xu Weisheng , Zhang Jin
Published: April 2022

Gradient variations of through-thickness residual stress, microstructure and texture greatly affect the performance of cold radial forged tubes. In this work, the through-thickness distribution of residual stress was measured based on the Debye ring. The microstructure was characterized with the electron backscattering diffraction technique. The texture was measured by the X-ray diffractometer. The influence of microstructure and texture on the strength and anisotropy of forged tubes with different thickness reductions was analyzed. The results show that the residual stress varies gradually from compressive to tensile from the outer to inner surface. The microhardness of the outer surface is lower than the inner. The dislocation density and low-angle grain boundary fraction are the smallest in the one-third thickness. The dislocation density and low-angle grain boundary fraction increase gradually from the one-third thickness to the inner surface. The main texture components of the forged tube include {111}<110>, {001}<110> and {114}<110>. Texture {111}<110> deflects gradually toward {114}<110>, {112}<110> and {110}<110> from the external tube to the internal tube. The gradient variation of strength mainly resulted from the difference of the dislocation density. The difference of strength along the radial direction is reduced with a larger thickness reduction. This work has important significance for improving the performance of high-strength alloy steel tubes processed by cold radial forging.
Effects of Anticancer Agent P-bi-TAT on Gene Expression Link the Integrin Thyroid Hormone Receptor to Expression of Stemness and Energy Metabolism Genes in Cancer Cells
Authors: Glinsky Gennadi V. , Godugu Kavitha , Sudha Thangirala , Rajabi Mehdi , Chittur Sridar V. , Hercbergs Aleck A. , Mousa Shaker A. , Davis Paul J.
Published: April 2022

Chemically modified forms of tetraiodothyroacetic acid (tetrac), an L-thyroxine derivative, have been shown to exert their anticancer activity at plasma membrane integrin αvβ3 of tumor cells. Via a specific hormone receptor on the integrin, tetrac-based therapeutic agents modulate expression of genes relevant to cancer cell proliferation, survival and energy metabolism. P-bi-TAT, a novel bivalent tetrac-containing synthetic compound has anticancer activity in vitro and in vivo against glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) and other types of human cancers. In the current study, microarray analysis was carried out on a primary culture of human GBM cells exposed to P-bi-TAT (10−6 tetrac equivalent) for 24 h. P-bi-TAT significantly affected expression of a large panel of genes implicated in cancer cell stemness, growth, survival and angiogenesis. Recent interest elsewhere in ATP synthase as a target in GBM cells caused us to focus attention on expression of genes involved in energy metabolism. Significantly downregulated transcripts included multiple energy-metabolism-related genes: electron transport chain genes ATP5A1 (ATP synthase 1), ATP51, ATP5G2, COX6B1 (cytochrome c oxidase subunit 6B1), NDUFA8 (NADH dehydrogenase (ubiquinone) FA8), NDUFV2I and other NDUF genes. The NDUF and ATP genes are also relevant to control of oxidative phosphorylation and transcription. Qualitatively similar actions of P-bi-TAT on expression of subsets of energy-metabolism-linked genes were also detected in established human GBM and pancreatic cancer cell lines. In conclusion, acting at αvβ3 integrin, P-bi-TAT caused downregulation in human cancer cells of expression of a large number of genes involved in electron transport and oxidative phosphorylation. These observations suggest that cell surface thyroid hormone receptors on αvβ3 regulate expression of genes relevant to tumor cell stemness and energy metabolism.
The Secondary Minerals from the Pillow Basalt of Salsette-Mumbai, Deccan Volcanic Province, India
Authors: Ottens Berthold , Schuster Ralf , Benkó Zsolt
Published: April 2022

Secondary minerals occur within the tholeiitic basalts of Salsette Island in the greater Mumbai region, as well as in other localities in the Deccan Volcanic Province (DVP). However, the secondary minerals of Salsette Island show remarkable differences with respect to their mineral speciation and precipitation sequence, which are both due to their unique geological environment. The greater Mumbai region is built up by the Salsette subgroup, which represents the youngest sequence of the DVP. It formed subsequently to the main phase of DVP activity in Danian time (62.5 to 61.5 Ma), in the course of the India–Laxmi Ridge–Seychelles breakup. The main part of the Salsette subgroup consists of tholeiitic basaltic flows with pillows, pillow breccia, and hyaloclastite, which formed in contact with brackish and fresh water in a lagoonal environment. In some places, intertrappeans are represented by fossiliferous shallow water sediments. On the top, trachytic and rhyolitic subaqueous volcaniclastics occur, and some dioritic bodies have intruded nearby. Due to differing fluid rock interactions, several distinctly different secondary minerals developed in the void spaces of the hyaloclastite breccia of the interpillow matrix and in the pillow cavities. The highly permeable hyaloclastite breccia formed an open system, where pronounced precipitation occurred in the early phase and at higher temperatures. In contrast, the pillow cavities were a temporally closed system and contained, for example, more low-temperature zeolites. The genesis of the secondary minerals can be summarized as follows: During initial cooling of the volcanic rocks at about 62 Ma, the first mineralization sequence developed with chlorite, laumontite I, quartz, and calcite I. Ongoing magmatic activity caused reheating and the main phase of precipitation at prehnite–pumpellyite facies conditions. During generally decreasing temperatures, in the range of 270–180 °C, babingtonite, laumontite II, prehnite, julgoldite, yugawaralite, calcite II, ilvaite, pumpellyite, and gryolite developed. The fluid contained SiO2 + Al2O3 + FeO + MgO + CaO, and minor MnO and Na2O, and was predominately mineralized by the decomposition of basaltic glass. Further temperature decreases caused zeolite facies conditions and precipitation of okenite I, scolecite, heulandite, stilbite, and finally chabazite I, in the temperature range of 180 °C to less than 100 °C. As FeO, MgO, and MnO were then absent, an interaction of the fluid with plagioclase is indicated. According to Rb-Sr and K-Ar ages on apophyllite-K, a third phase of precipitation with apophyllite-K, okenite II, and chabazite II occurred in the late Eocene to early Oligocene (30–40 Ma). The new hydrothermal fluid additionally contained K2O, and temperatures of 50–100 °C can be expected.
Adsorbed Chemical Elements of River Runoff of Solids and Their Role in the Transformation of Dissolved Matter Runoff into the Ocean
Authors: Savenko Alla V. , Savenko Vitaly S.
Published: April 2022

A procedure for experimental modeling of sorption–desorption processes in the mixing zone of river and sea waters, which excludes the determination of the absolute concentrations of adsorbed chemical elements, has been proposed. Based on experimental data, quantitative characteristics of the ion-exchange transformation of dissolved matter runoff during the penetration of terrigenous material into the marine environment were obtained. The real input of calcium into the ocean as a result of desorption from the solid substances of river runoff increases by 8.3–8.7%, while input of sodium, potassium, and magnesium decreases by 14.0–14.6, 22.2–23.3, and 3.0–3.2% of their dissolved river runoff. For trace elements, sorption–desorption processes lead to an increase in the runoff of dissolved manganese, cobalt, nickel, cadmium, thallium, barium, and ammonium by 98.6–103.5, 20.6–21.6, 3.8–4.0, 15.6–16.5, 4.7–4.9, 20.3–21.3, and 0.8% and to a decrease in the runoff of dissolved lead and cesium by 9.1–9.4 and 2.6–2.8%.
Graphene Oxide-Coated Metal–Insulator–Metal SERS Substrates for Trace Melamine Detection
Authors: Wang Zhenming , Liu Jianxun , Wang Jiawei , Ma Zongjun , Kong Delai , Jiang Shouzhen , Luo Dan , Liu Yan Jun
Published: April 2022

Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) has long been an ultrasensitive technique for trace molecule detection. However, the development of a sensitive, stable, and reproducible SERS substrate is still a challenge for practical applications. Here, we demonstrate a cost-effective, centimeter-sized, and highly reproducible SERS substrate using the nanosphere lithography technique. It consists of a hexagonally packed Ag metasurface on a SiO2/Au/Si substrate. A seconds-lasting etching process of a self-assembled nanosphere mask manipulates the geometry of the deposited Ag metasurface on the SiO2/Au/Si substrate, which attains the wavelength matching between the optical absorbance of the Ag/SiO2/Au/Si substrate and the excitation laser wavelength as well as the enhancement of Raman signals. By spin-coating a thin layer of graphene oxide on the substrate, a SERS performance with 1.1 × 105 analytical enhancement factor and a limit of detection of 10−9 M for melamine is achieved. Experimental results reveal that our proposed strategy could provide a promising platform for SERS-based rapid trace detection in food safety control and environmental monitoring.
Heat Transfer Analysis of Nanostructured Material Flow over an Exponentially Stretching Surface: A Comparative Study
Authors: Arshad Mubashar , Hussain Azad , Hassan Ali , Khan Ilyas , Badran Mohamed , Mehrez Sadok , Elfasakhany Ashraf , Abdeljawad Thabet , Galal Ahmed M.
Published: April 2022

The objective of the present research is to obtain enhanced heat and reduce skin friction rates. Different nanofluids are employed over an exponentially stretching surface to analyze the heat transfer coefficients. The mathematical model for the problem has been derived with the help of the Rivilin–Erickson tensor and an appropriate boundary layer approximation theory. The current problem has been tackled with the help of the boundary value problem algorithm in Matlab. The convergence criterion, or tolerance for this particular problem, is set at 10−6. The outcomes are obtained to demonstrate the characteristics of different parameters, such as the temperature exponent, volume fraction, and stretching ratio parameter graphically. Silver-water nanofluid proved to have a high-temperature transfer rate when compared with zinc-water and copper-water nanofluid. Moreover, the outcomes of the study are validated by providing a comparison with already published work. The results of this study were found to be in complete agreement with those of Magyari and Keller and also with Lui for heat transfer. The novelty of this work is the comparative inspection of enhanced heat transfer rates and reduced drag and lift coefficients, particularly for three nanofluids, namely, zinc-water, copper-water, and silver-water, over an exponentially stretching. In general, this study suggests more frequent exploitation of all the examined nanofluids, especially Ag-water nanofluid. Moreover, specifically under the obtained outcomes in this research, the examined nanofluid, Ag-water, has great potential to be used in flat plate solar collectors. Ag-water can also be tested in natural convective flat plate solar collector systems under real solar effects.
Synthesis and Nanoarchitectonics of Novel Squaraine Derivatives for Organic Photovoltaic Devices
Authors: Vuk Dragana , Radovanović-Perić Floren , Mandić Vilko , Lovrinčević Vilma , Rath Thomas , Panžić Ivana , Le-Cunff Jerome
Published: April 2022

Necessary advancements in the area of organic photovoltaic (OPV) devices include the upgrade of power conversion efficiencies (PCE) and stability. One answer to these demands lies in the research into new absorbers. Here, we focus on the development of new small molecule absorbers from the group of squaraines (SQs). These modular absorbers can be applied as donors in organic solar cells and have the ability to utilize a broad range of solar radiation if blended with suitable acceptors. In order to allow for the compatibility and favorable organization of donor and acceptor in the absorber layer, we intend to optimize the structure of the SQ by varying the groups attached to the squaric acid core. For that purpose, we accordingly developed a well-suited synthesis route. The novel alkyl- and benzyl-substituted aryl aminosquaraines were synthesized through an improved and eco-friendly procedure. Special emphasis was placed on optimizing the amination reaction to obtain initial precursors in the synthesis of squaraine, avoiding hitherto common catalytic processes. All SQ precursors and SQ products were completely described. The derived SQs were additionally characterized in thin-film configuration using cyclic voltammetry and UV-VIS spectroscopy and then processed to prepare self-standing bulk heterojunction (BHJ) thin films in conjunction with fullerene-based electron acceptors, which were characterized via profilometry. The comparison between SQ and BHJ solutions and thin films, using atomic force microscopy and UV-VIS spectroscopy, revealed differences in susceptibility for the organization and orientation of the constituting domains.
Heat Transfer of Hybrid Nanomaterials Base Maxwell Micropolar Fluid Flow over an Exponentially Stretching Surface
Authors: Li Piyu , Z. Duraihem Faisal , Awan Aziz Ullah , Al-Zubaidi A. , Abbas Nadeem , Ahmad Daud
Published: April 2022

A numerical investigation of three-dimensional hybrid nanomaterial micropolar fluid flow across an exponentially stretched sheet is performed. Recognized similarity transformations are adopted to convert governing equations from PDEs into the set ODEs. The dimensionless system is settled by the operating numerical approach bvp4c. The impacts of the nanoparticle volume fraction, dimensionless viscosity ratio, stretching ratio parameter, and dimensionless constant on fluid velocity, micropolar angular velocity, fluid temperature, and skin friction coefficient in both x-direction and y-direction are inspected. Graphical outcomes are shown to predict the features of the concerned parameters into the current problem. These results are vital in the future in the branches of technology and industry. The micropolar function  Rη increases for higher values of the micropolar parameter and nanoparticle concentration. Micropolar function Rη declines for higher values of the micropolar parameter and nanoparticle concentration. Temperature function is enhanced for higher values of solid nanoparticle concentration. Temperature function declines for higher values of the micropolar parameter. The range of the physical parameters are presented as: 0.005<ϕ2<0.09, Pr=6.2, 0<K<2, 0<a<2.0, ϕ1=0.1, and 0<c<1.5.
Vitamin K2 Modulates Mitochondrial Dysfunction Induced by 6-Hydroxydopamine in SH-SY5Y Cells via Mitochondrial Quality-Control Loop
Authors: Tang Hengfang , Zheng Zhiming , Wang Han , Wang Li , Zhao Genhai , Wang Peng
Published: April 2022

Vitamin K2, a natural fat-soluble vitamin, is a potent neuroprotective molecule, owing to its antioxidant effect, but its mechanism has not been fully elucidated. Therefore, we stimulated SH-SY5Y cells with 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) in a proper dose-dependent manner, followed by a treatment of vitamin K2. In the presence of 6-OHDA, cell viability was reduced, the mitochondrial membrane potential was decreased, and the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was increased. Moreover, the treatment of 6-OHDA promoted mitochondria-mediated apoptosis and abnormal mitochondrial fission and fusion. However, vitamin K2 significantly suppressed 6-OHDA-induced changes. Vitamin K2 played a significant part in apoptosis by upregulating and downregulating Bcl-2 and Bax protein expressions, respectively, which inhibited mitochondrial depolarization, and ROS accumulation to maintain mitochondrial structure and functional stabilities. Additionally, vitamin K2 significantly inhibited the 6-OHDA-induced downregulation of the MFN1/2 level and upregulation of the DRP1 level, respectively, and this enabled cells to maintain the dynamic balance of mitochondrial fusion and fission. Furthermore, vitamin K2 treatments downregulated the expression level of p62 and upregulated the expression level of LC3A in 6-OHDA-treated cells via the PINK1/Parkin signaling pathway, thereby promoting mitophagy. Moreover, it induced mitochondrial biogenesis in 6-OHDA damaged cells by promoting the expression of PGC-1α, NRF1, and TFAM. These indicated that vitamin K2 can release mitochondrial damage, and that this effect is related to the participation of vitamin K2 in the regulation of the mitochondrial quality-control loop, through the maintenance of the mitochondrial quality-control system, and repair mitochondrial dysfunction, thereby alleviating neuronal cell death mediated by mitochondrial damage.
Parental Prepuberty Overweight and Offspring Lung Function
Authors: Lønnebotn Marianne , Calciano Lucia , Johannessen Ane , Jarvis Deborah L. , Abramson Michael J. , Benediktsdóttir Bryndís , Bråbäck Lennart , Franklin Karl A. , Godoy Raúl , Holm Mathias , Janson Christer , Jõgi Nils O. , Kirkeleit Jorunn , Malinovschi Andrei , Pereira-Vega Antonio , Schlünssen Vivi , Dharmage Shyamali C. , Accordini Simone , Gómez Real Francisco , Svanes Cecilie
Published: April 2022

In a recent study we found that fathers’ but not mothers’ onset of overweight in puberty was associated with asthma in adult offspring. The potential impact on offspring’s adult lung function, a key marker of general and respiratory health, has not been studied. We investigated the potential causal effects of parents’ overweight on adult offspring’s lung function within the paternal and maternal lines. We included 929 offspring (aged 18–54, 54% daughters) of 308 fathers and 388 mothers (aged 40–66). Counterfactual-based multi-group mediation analyses by offspring’s sex (potential moderator) were used, with offspring’s prepubertal overweight and/or adult height as potential mediators. Unknown confounding was addressed by simulation analyses. Fathers’ overweight before puberty had a negative indirect effect, mediated through sons’ height, on sons’ forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) (beta (95% CI): −144 (−272, −23) mL) and forced vital capacity (FVC) (beta (95% CI): −210 (−380, −34) mL), and a negative direct effect on sons’ FVC (beta (95% CI): −262 (−501, −9) mL); statistically significant effects on FEV1/FVC were not observed. Mothers’ overweight before puberty had neither direct nor indirect effects on offspring’s lung function. Fathers’ overweight starting before puberty appears to cause lower FEV1 and FVC in their future sons. The effects were partly mediated through sons’ adult height but not through sons’ prepubertal overweight.