bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Urbanization on Landscape Patterns in the Middle Reaches of the Yangtze River Region
Authors: Yi Yang , Zhang Chen , Zhang Guilian , Xing Luqi , Zhong Qicheng , Liu Jialin , Lin Yichen , Zheng Xiewei , Yang Na , Sun Hao , Shi Mingchang , Kang Hongzhang
Published: September 2021

The middle reaches of the Yangtze River region (MRYRR) are China’s first trans-regional urban agglomeration, located in the center of the Yangtze River Economic Belt. The MRYRR is an important ecological reserve, and its land cover changes are affected by both socio-economic development and geographical environment. In this paper, Landsat ETM/TM/OLI remote sensing images were used to monitor land use and landscape patterns from 1990 to 2015. Through supervised classification, land use transfer matrix, landscape pattern metrics and correlation analysis, the spatial-temporal patterns of land use change and its relationship with socio-economic in the study area were revealed. The results showed that: (1) the main land use types in the study area were cropland (CL) and forestland (FL), accounting for more than three-quarters of the study area. During the study period, built-up land (BL) increased, CL decreased, FL increased first and then decreased; (2) the BL expanded mainly by occupying CL and FL, and regional landscape pattern was gradually fragmented, with complex patch shape and increasing diversity and heterogeneity. Among them, the BL is gradually gathered, and the FL and CL are gradually fragmented; (3) in the past 25 years, the urbanization process in this region has been obvious, and the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has increased by 36 times. The socioeconomic variables were positively correlated with BL, orchard (OL) and Shannon diversity index (SHID), and negatively correlated with CL, Wasteland (WL), mean patch size (MPS) and contagion size (CONTAG). The results showed that the urbanization development has a great impact on the region, and the ecological protection task is still challenging. It is necessary to protect high-quality cropland and draw a red line for ecological protection. We should strengthen the construction of ecological corridors and ecological nodes to adapt to regional sustainable development.
Making Blood from the Vessel: Extrinsic and Environmental Cues Guiding the Endothelial-to-Hematopoietic Transition
Authors: Sugden Wade W. , North Trista E.
Published: September 2021

It is increasingly recognized that specialized subsets of endothelial cells carry out unique functions in specific organs and regions of the vascular tree. Perhaps the most striking example of this specialization is the ability to contribute to the generation of the blood system, in which a distinct population of “hemogenic” endothelial cells in the embryo transforms irreversibly into hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells that produce circulating erythroid, myeloid and lymphoid cells for the lifetime of an animal. This review will focus on recent advances made in the zebrafish model organism uncovering the extrinsic and environmental factors that facilitate hemogenic commitment and the process of endothelial-to-hematopoietic transition that produces blood stem cells. We highlight in particular biomechanical influences of hemodynamic forces and the extracellular matrix, metabolic and sterile inflammatory cues present during this developmental stage, and outline new avenues opened by transcriptomic-based approaches to decipher cell–cell communication mechanisms as examples of key signals in the embryonic niche that regulate hematopoiesis.
Optimization of Material Supply in Smart Manufacturing Environment: A Metaheuristic Approach for Matrix Production
Authors: Bányai Tamás
Published: September 2021

In the context of Industry 4.0, the matrix production developed by KUKA robotics represents a revolutionary solution for flexible manufacturing systems. Because of the adaptable and flexible manufacturing and material handling solutions, the design and control of these processes require new models and methods, especially from a real-time control point of view. Within the frame of this article, a new real-time optimization algorithm for in-plant material supply of smart manufacturing is proposed. After a systematic literature review, this paper describes a possible structure of the in-plant supply in matrix production environment. The mathematical model of the mentioned matrix production system is defined. The optimization problem of the described model is an integrated routing and scheduling problem, which is an NP-hard problem. The integrated routing and scheduling problem are solved with a hybrid multi-phase black hole and flower pollination-based metaheuristic algorithm. The computational results focusing on clustering and routing problems validate the model and evaluate its performance. The case studies show that matrix production is a suitable solution for smart manufacturing.
A Dimension Splitting-Interpolating Moving Least Squares (DS-IMLS) Method with Nonsingular Weight Functions
Authors: Wang Jufeng , Sun Fengxin , Cheng Rongjun
Published: September 2021

By introducing the dimension splitting method (DSM) into the improved interpolating moving least-squares (IMLS) method with nonsingular weight function, a dimension splitting–interpolating moving least squares (DS-IMLS) method is first proposed. Since the DSM can decompose the problem into a series of lower-dimensional problems, the DS-IMLS method can reduce the matrix dimension in calculating the shape function and reduce the computational complexity of the derivatives of the approximation function. The approximation function of the DS-IMLS method and its derivatives have high approximation accuracy. Then an improved interpolating element-free Galerkin (IEFG) method for the two-dimensional potential problems is established based on the DS-IMLS method. In the improved IEFG method, the DS-IMLS method and Galerkin weak form are used to obtain the discrete equations of the problem. Numerical examples show that the DS-IMLS and the improved IEFG methods have high accuracy.
Scalarane-Type Sesterterpenoids from the Marine Sponge Lendenfeldia sp. Alleviate Inflammation in Human Neutrophils
Authors: Peng Bo-Rong , Lai Kuei-Hung , Lee Gene-Hsiang , Yu Steve Sheng-Fa , Duh Chang-Yih , Su Jui-Hsin , Zheng Li-Guo , Hwang Tsong-Long , Sung Ping-Jyun
Published: September 2021

Sponge-derived scalaranes are remarkable sesterterpenoids previously found to exhibit profound inhibitory effects against neutrophilic inflammation. In our current work, we constructed the metabolomic profile of marine sponge Lendenfeldia sp. for the first time using a tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) molecular networking approach. The results highlighted the rich chemical diversity of these scalaranes, motivating us to conduct further research to discover novel scalaranes targeting neutrophilic inflammation. MS- and NMR-assisted isolation and elucidation led to the discovery of seven new homoscalaranes, lendenfeldaranes K–Q (1–7), characterized by methylation at C-24, together with five known derivatives, lendenfeldarane B (8), 25-nor-24-methyl-12,24-dioxoscalar-16-en-22-oic acid (9), 24-methyl-12,24,25-trioxoscalar-16-en-22-oic acid (10), felixin B (11), and 23-hydroxy-20-methyldeoxoscalarin (12). Scalaranes 1–4 and 6–12 were assayed against superoxide anion generation and elastase release, which represented the neutrophilic inflammatory responses of respiratory burst and degranulation, respectively. The results indicated that 1–3 and 6–12 exhibited potential anti-inflammatory activities (IC50 for superoxide anion scavenging: 0.87~6.57 μM; IC50 for elastase release: 1.12~6.97 μM).
Emerging Materials for Mixed-Matrix Membranes
Authors: Chuah Chong Yang , Goh Kunli , Bae Tae-Hyun
Published: September 2021

This Special Issue, entitled “Emerging Materials for Mixed-Matrix Membranes” was introduced to cover the recent progress in the development of materials for mixed-matrix membranes (MMMs) with potential application in fields such as sea water desalination, gas separation, pharmaceutical separation, wastewater treatment and the removal of pathogenic (viruses and bacteria) microorganisms as well as solvents and resource recovery [...]
Fabrication and Characterization of Sulfonated Graphene Oxide (SGO) Doped PVDF Nanocomposite Membranes with Improved Anti-Biofouling Performance
Authors: Zahid Muhammad , Khalid Tayyaba , Rehan Zulfiqar Ahmad , Javed Talha , Akram Saba , Rashid Anum , Mustafa Syed Khalid , Shabbir Rubab , Mora-Poblete Freddy , Asad Muhammad Shoaib , Liaquat Rida , Hassan Mohamed M. , Amin Mohammed A. , Shakoor Hafiz Abdul
Published: September 2021

Emergence of membrane technology for effective performance is qualified due to its low energy consumption, no use of chemicals, high removal capacity and easy accessibility of membrane material. The hydrophobic nature of polymeric membranes limits their applications due to biofouling (assemblage of microorganisms on surface of membrane). Polymeric nanocomposite membranes emerge to alleviate this issue. The current research work was concerned with the fabrication of sulfonated graphene oxide doped polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membrane and investigation of its anti-biofouling and anti-bacterial behavior. The membrane was fabricated through phase inversion method, and its structure and morphology were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-rays diffraction (XRD) and thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA) techniques. Performance of the membrane was evaluated via pure water flux; anti-biofouling behavior was determined through Bovine Serum albumin (BSA) rejection. Our results revealed that the highest water flux was shown by M7 membrane about 308.7 Lm−2h−1/bar having (0.5%) concentration of SGO with improved BSA rejection. Furthermore, these fabricated membranes showed high antibacterial activity, more hydrophilicity and mechanical strength as compared to pristine PVDF membranes. It was concluded that SGO addition within PVDF polymer matrix enhanced the properties and performance of membranes. Therefore, SGO was found to be a promising material for the fabrication of nanocomposite membranes.
Effect of Agar/AgNP Composite Film Packaging on Refrigerated Beef Loin Quality
Authors: Hong Seok-In , Cho Youngjin , Rhim Jong-Whan
Published: September 2021

Fresh beef loin was packaged with 0–2% silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) incorporated agar films to investigate the effect of antimicrobial packaging on meat quality changes in terms of microbiological and physicochemical properties. Raw beef cuts were directly inoculated with Listeria monocytogenes and Escherichia coli O157:H7 and stored in the air-sealed packages combined with the agar films at 5 °C for 15 days. Beef samples showed low susceptibility to the agar/AgNP composite films, resulting in about one log reduction of the inoculated pathogenic bacteria in viable cell count during storage. However, the composite films could partly prevent beef samples from directly contacting oxygen, maintaining the meat color and retarding oxidative rancidity. Experimental results suggested that the AgNP-incorporated agar films can potentially be applied in packaged raw meats as an active food packaging material to inhibit microbial and physicochemical quality deterioration during distribution and sale.
Experimental Investigation on Machinability of Titanium Alloy by Laser-Assisted End Milling
Authors: Kim Dong-Hyeon , Lee Choon-Man
Published: September 2021

The Machining of titanium alloys is challenging because of their high strength, low thermal conductivity, high chemical reactivity, and high stresses at the cutting tool edges. Laser-assisted machining is an effective way to improve the machinability of titanium alloys. This paper presents an experimental investigation of the machinability of cutting force and surface roughness in laser-assisted end milling of titanium alloy Ti-6Al-4V. The absorptivity of Ti-6Al-4V was determined by conducting preheating experiments using a high-power diode laser with a wavelength of 940–980 nm. A thermal analysis was performed using the finite element method to predict temperature distribution. The depth of cut was determined where tensile strength decreased sharply, and the predicted surface temperature is presented in the analysis results. The experiments were performed with conventional machining and laser-assisted machining. Surface roughness, tool wear, and cutting force were evaluated. In contrast to the results of conventional end milling, laser-assisted end milling improved surface roughness. Moreover, laser-assisted end milling proved more effective than conventional end milling in terms of cutting tool damage. Our results proved that heat assistance significantly influenced the magnitude of the cutting forces—while the actual reduction in forces varied slightly depending on the force component, cutting tool, and cutting conditions, force components showed a reduction of roughly 13–46%.
Adaptive First Principles Model for the CAS-OB Process for Real-Time Applications
Authors: Linnestad Kasper , Ollila Seppo , Wasbø Stein O. , Bogdanoff Agne , Rotevatn Torstein
Published: September 2021

A model-based system for real-time monitoring and operational support has been developed for the Composition Adjustment by Sealed argon-bubbling with Oxygen Blowing (CAS-OB) process. The model of the system is based on a previously developed dynamic model using first principles, i.e., mass and energy balances, reaction kinetics, and thermodynamics. Adaptive estimation of state variables has been implemented using a Kalman filter to ensure that the model is able to correct for deviations between measured and calculated temperatures in real-time operation. The estimation technique reduces the standard deviation of the predicted end temperature from 19.5 °C to 5.5 °C in a data series with more than 1000 heats. The system also includes an endpoint optimisation, which calculates the amount of scrap or oxygen to be added to achieve the target temperature at the end of the heat. The model has been implemented in the Cybernetica® CENIT™ framework. The overall model can be regarded as a hybrid digital twin, where a first principles model is adapted in real time using process measurements. The system also includes user interfaces for operators where process predictions can be followed, and suggested optimised inputs are presented. The system has been deployed at two refining stations at SSAB Europe OY in Raahe, Finland. The optimized suggestions for oxygen and scrap are presented to the operators in the graphical user interface. A projected temperature profile is calculated into the near future using the planned operational procedure as well as the projected temperature profile using optimised inputs. Both profiles are displayed in the user interface. Based on these trajectories, the operator can decide on whether to follow the nominal trajectory, or the recommendation from the optimisation This will help the operators make better decisions, which in turn reduces the number of rejected heats in the CAS-OB process.
Margination of Platelet-Sized Particles in the Red Blood Cell Suspension Flow through Square Microchannels
Authors: Sugihara-Seki Masako , Takinouchi Nozomi
Published: September 2021

In the blood flow through microvessels, platelets show high concentrations near the vessel wall. This phenomenon is called margination of platelets and is closely associated with hemostasis and thrombosis. In the present study, we conducted in vitro experiments using platelet-sized fluorescent particles as platelet substitutes to investigate the cross-sectional distribution of these particles in the red blood cell suspension flowing through microchannels with a square cross section. Fluorescence observations were performed to measure the transverse distribution of particles at various heights from the bottom face with the use of a confocal laser scanning microscope system. In downstream cross sections of the channel, particles showed focusing near the four corners rather than uniform margination along the entire circumference of the cross section. The focusing of particles near the corners was more enhanced for higher hematocrits. On the other hand, particles in circular channel flows showed nearly axisymmetric uniform accumulation adjacent to the channel wall. The present result suggests that the segregation of suspended particles in the flow of multicomponent suspensions could have such heterogeneous 2D features of particle distribution in the cross section of channels, especially for rectangular channels often used in microfluidics.
Automated Filling of Dry Micron-Sized Particles into Micro Mold Pattern within Planar Substrates for the Fabrication of Powder-Based 3D Microstructures
Authors: Kostmann Cris , Lisec Thomas , Bodduluri Mani Teja , Andersen Olaf
Published: September 2021

Powder-based techniques are gaining increasing interest for the fabrication of microstructures on planar substrates. A typical approach comprises the filling of a mold pattern with micron-sized particles of the desired material, and their fixation there. Commonly powder-loaded pastes or inks are filled into the molds. To meet the smallest dimensions and highest filling factors, the utilization of dry powder as the raw material is more beneficial. However, an appropriate automated technique for filling a micro mold pattern with dry micron-sized particles is missing up to now. This paper presents a corresponding approach based on the superimposition of high- and low-frequency oscillations for particle mobilization. Rubber balls are utilized to achieve dense packing. For verification, micromagnets are created from 5 µm NdFeB powder on 8” Si substrates, using the novel automated mold filling technique, as well as an existing manual one. Subsequent atomic layer deposition is utilized to agglomerate the loose NdFeB particles into rigid microstructures. The magnetic properties and inner structure of the NdFeB micromagnets are investigated. It is shown that the novel automated technique outperforms the manual one in major terms.
Suggested Research Trends in the Area of Micro-EDM—Study of Some Parameters Affecting Micro-EDM
Authors: Ivanov Atanas , Lahiri Abhishek , Baldzhiev Venelin , Trych-Wildner Anna
Published: September 2021

This paper provides an overall view of the current research in micro-electrical discharge machining (micro-EDM or µEDM) and looks into the present understanding of the material removing mechanism and the common approach for electrode material selection and its limitations. Based on experimental data, the authors present an analysis of different materials’ properties which have an influence on the electrodes’ wear ratio and energy distribution during the spark. The experiments performed in micro-EDM conditions reveal that properties such as electron work function and electrical resistivity strongly correlate with the discharge energy ratio. The electrode wear ratio, on the other hand, is strongly influenced by the atomic bonding energy and was found to be related to the tensile modulus. The proposed correlation functions characterized the data with a high determination coefficient exceeding 99%.
Bioemulsification and Microbial Community Reconstruction in Thermally Processed Crude Oil
Authors: Hu Bing , Zhao Jie-Yu , Nie Yong , Qin Xiao-Yu , Zhang Kai-Duan , Xing Jian-Min , Wu Xiao-Lei
Published: September 2021

Utilization of low-cost, environmental-friendly microbial enhanced oil recovery (MEOR) techniques in thermal recovery-processed oil reservoirs is potentially feasible. However, how exogenous microbes facilitate crude oil recovery in this deep biosphere, especially under mesophilic conditions, is scarcely investigated. In this study, a thermal treatment and a thermal recurrence were processed on crude oil collected from Daqing Oilfield, and then a 30-day incubation of the pretreated crude oil at 37 °C was operated with the addition of two locally isolated hydrocarbon-degrading bacteria, Amycolicicoccus subflavus DQS3-9A1T and Dietzia sp. DQ12-45-1b, respectively. The pH, surface tension, hydrocarbon profiles, culture-dependent cell densities and taxonomies, and whole and active microbial community compositions were determined. It was found that both A. subflavus DQS3-9A1T and Dietzia sp. DQ12-45-1b successfully induced culture acidification, crude oil bioemulsification, and residual oil sub-fraction alteration, no matter whether the crude oil was thermally pretreated or not. Endogenous bacteria which could proliferate on double heated crude oil were very few. Compared with A. subflavus, Dietzia sp. was substantially more effective at inducing the proliferation of varied species in one-time heated crude oil. Meanwhile, the effects of Dietzia sp. on crude oil bioemulsification and hydrocarbon profile alteration were not significantly influenced by the ploidy increasing of NaCl contents (from 5 g/L to 50 g/L), but the reconstructed bacterial communities became very simple, in which the Dietzia genus was predominant. Our study provides useful information to understand MEOR trials on thermally processed oil reservoirs, and proves that this strategy could be operated by using the locally available hydrocarbon-degrading microbes in mesophilic conditions with different salinity degrees.
Microbial Diversity in the Phyllosphere and Rhizosphere of an Apple Orchard Managed under Prolonged “Natural Farming” Practices
Authors: He Ying-Hong , Adkar-Purushothama Charith Raj , Ito Tsutae , Shirakawa Asuka , Yamamoto Hideki , Kashiwagi Akiko , Tatewaki Ayumu , Fujibayashi Misato , Sugiyama Shuichi , Yaginuma Katsuhiko , Akahira Tomoya , Yamamoto Shingen , Tsushima Seiya , Matsushita Yuko , Sano Teruo
Published: September 2021

Microbial diversity in an apple orchard cultivated with natural farming practices for over 30 years was compared with conventionally farmed orchards to analyze differences in disease suppression. In this long-term naturally farmed orchard, major apple diseases were more severe than in conventional orchards but milder than in a short-term natural farming orchard. Among major fungal species in the phyllosphere, we found that Aureobasidium pullulans and Cryptococcus victoriae were significantly less abundant in long-term natural farming, while Cladosporium tenuissimum predominated. However, diversity of fungal species in the phyllosphere was not necessarily the main determinant in the disease suppression observed in natural farming; instead, the maintenance of a balanced, constant selection of fungal species under a suitable predominant species such as C. tenuissimum seemed to be the important factors. Analysis of bacteria in the phyllosphere revealed Pseudomonas graminis, a potential inducer of plant defenses, predominated in long-term natural farming in August. Rhizosphere metagenome analysis showed that Cordyceps and Arthrobotrys, fungal genera are known to include insect- or nematode-infecting species, were found only in long-term natural farming. Among soil bacteria, the genus Nitrospira was most abundant, and its level in long-term natural farming was more than double that in the conventionally farmed orchard.
Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Euglena gracilis Extracts
Authors: Brun Paola , Piovan Anna , Caniato Rosy , Dalla Costa Vanessa , Pauletto Anthony , Filippini Raffaella
Published: September 2021

Dietary supplementation with nutrients able to control intestinal and systemic inflammation is of marketable interest. Indeed, gastrointestinal homeostasis plays a significant role in maintaining human health. In this setting, E. gracilis may sustain or promote human health, but the effects on the intestinal inflammatory milieu are not clear. In this study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory activity of E. gracilis and inferred possible mechanisms. Paramylon, crude, and fractionated extracts were obtained from E. gracilis grown in vitro. Phytoconstituents of the extracts were characterized using TLC and HPLC UV-Vis. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities were investigated in primary human macrophages and an intestinal epithelial cell line (HT-29). The analysis of the extracts led to identifying β-carotene, neoxanthin, diadinoxanthin, canthaxanthin, and breakdown products such as pheophytins and pheophorbides. E. gracilis fractionated extracts reduced the production of tumor necrosis factor-α triggered by bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in the short and long terms. Pheophytin a and b and canthaxanthin increased the intracellular reducing potential and dampened the production of LPS-induced reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxidation, intracellular events usually involved in the perpetuation of chronic inflammatory disorders. This study rationalizes the role of specific extract fractions of E. gracilis in controlling LPS-driven intestinal inflammation.
Influence of Temperature on Rising Bubble Dynamics in Water and n-pentanol Solutions
Authors: Borkowski Mariusz , Zawala Jan
Published: September 2021

Data in the literature on the influence of water temperature on the terminal velocity of a single rising bubble are highly contradictory. Different variations in bubble velocity with temperature are reported even for potentially pure systems. This paper presents a systematic study on the influence of temperature between 5 °C and 45 °C on the motion of a single bubble of practically constant size (equivalent radius 0.74 ± 0.01 mm) rising in a clean water and n-pentanol solution of different concentrations. The bubble velocity was measured by a camera, an ultrasonic sensor reproduced in numerical simulations. Results obtained by image analysis (camera) were compared to the data measured by an ultrasonic sensor to reveal the similar scientific potential of the latter. It is shown that temperature has a significant effect on the velocity of the rising bubble. In pure liquid, this effect is caused only by modifying the physicochemical properties of the water phase, not by changing the hydrodynamic boundary conditions at the bubble surface. In the case of the solutions with surface-active substances, the temperature-change kinetics of the dynamic adsorption layer formation facilitate the immobilization of the liquid/gas interface.
Laboratory Study of Deformational Characteristics and Acoustic Emission Properties of Coal with Different Strengths under Uniaxial Compression
Authors: Ma Shuangwen , Liang Han , Cao Chen
Published: September 2021

Acoustic emission (AE) can reflect the dynamic changes in a material’s structure, and it has been widely used in studies regarding coal mechanics, such as those focusing on the influence of loading rate or water content change on the mechanical properties of coal. However, the deformational behavior of coals with various strengths differs due to the variation in microstructure. Hard coal presents brittleness, which is closely related to certain kinds of geological disasters such as coal bursts; soft coal exhibits soft rock properties and large deformation mechanical characteristics. Therefore, conclusions drawn from AE characteristics of a single coal sample have application limitations. This paper studies the deformation patterns and AE characteristics of coals with different strengths. A uniaxial compression experiment was carried out using coal samples with average uniaxial compressive strengths of 30 MPa and 10 MPa; the SAEU2S digital AE system was used to measure the AE counts, dissipation energy, and fracturing point distributions at each deformation stage of the different coals. The results show that the bearing capacity of hard coal is similar to that of the elastic stage and plastic deformation stage, but it may lose its bearing capacity immediately after failure. Soft coal has a relatively distinct stress-softening deformation stage and retains a certain bearing capacity after the peak. The AE counts and dissipation energy of hard coal are significantly higher than those of soft media, with average increases of 49% and 26%, respectively. Via comparative analysis of the distribution and development of internal rupture points within soft coal and hard coal at 15%, 70%, and 80% peak loads, it was observed that hard coal has fewer rupture points in the elastic deformation stage, allowing it to maintain good integrity; however, its rupture points increase rapidly under high stress. Soft coal produces more plastic deformation under low loading conditions, but the development of the fracture is relatively slow in the stress-softening stage. We extracted and summarized the AE characteristics discussed in the literature using one single coal sample, and the results support the conclusions presented in this paper. This study subdivided the deformation process and AE characteristics of soft and hard coals, providing a theoretical guidance and technical support for the application of AE technology in coal with different strengths.
Zircons from Collisional Granites, Garhwal Himalaya, NW India: U–Th–Pb Age, Geochemistry and Protolith Constraints
Authors: Mishra Sumit , Slabunov Alexander I. , Svetov Sergei A. , Kervinen Anna V. , Nesterova Natalia S.
Published: September 2021

In the present work, we studied zircons from the less foliated granites of the Chail Group, which form a thrust sheet of the Lesser Himalayan Sequences, Garhwal region. Compositionally, these granites are S–type, formed in a collisional tectonic setting. Zircons possess an internal structure, mineral inclusions, and geochemical characteristics typical of magmatic origin. The U–Th–Pb geochronology and geochemistry were assessed using the laser ablation multi–collector inductively coupled plasma spectrometry (LA–ICP–MS) technique. U–Th–Pb isotope dating of zircons from two different samples revealed their age, estimated from the upper intersection of the discordia, to be 1845 ± 19 Ma. Zircons from one sample contained inherited cores belonging to three age groups: Paleoarchean (3.52 Ga), Neoarchean (2.78 Ga and 2.62 Ga), and Paleoproterozoic (2.1 Ga). Zircons with ages of 3.52, 2.62, and 2.1 Ga were interpreted as magmatic based on their geochemical characteristics. The 2.78 Ga core was interpreted as metamorphic. The observed inheritance is consistent with the melting of sedimentary rocks. The inherited zircons could have originated from Aravalli and Bundelkhand Craton and Paleoproterozoic Aravalli Fold Belt rocks. This confirms that the studied granites are S–type and could have been formed in a collisional environment at 1.85 Ga on the western flank of the Columbia Supercontinent.
White Chocolate with Resistant Starch: Impact on Physical Properties, Dietary Fiber Content and Sensory Characteristics
Authors: Lončarević Ivana , Pajin Biljana , Petrović Jovana , Nikolić Ivana , Maravić Nikola , Ačkar Đurđica , Šubarić Drago , Zarić Danica , Miličević Borislav
Published: September 2021

Resistant starch (RS) is a part of insoluble dietary fiber, and it could be recognized as a functional food ingredient in some types of confectionery products that lack dietary fiber. Unlike dark and milk chocolate, white chocolate does not contain fat-free cocoa solids rich in dietary fiber. In the present study, 5%, 10%, and 15% of white chocolate were substituted with RS in order to improve the nutritional value of enriched white chocolate. The influence of RS on rheological, textural, and thermal properties of the chocolate fat phase was firstly investigated, and then further influence on physical properties, dietary fiber content, and sensory characteristics of enriched white chocolates were investigated. The obtained results showed that enriched chocolates had increased content of total dietary fiber and reduced total fats and protein content in accordance with the added amount of RS. At the same time, RS increased viscosity and reduced the hardness and volume mean diameter in enriched chocolates in accordance with the added amount. RS improved the nutritional composition of white chocolate by increasing the content of dietary fiber. At the same time, RS did not impair the color and sensory characteristics of enriched white chocolates.
Advances of Microneedles in Biomedical Applications
Authors: Xu Jie , Xu Danfeng , Xuan Xuan , He Huacheng
Published: September 2021

A microneedle (MN) is a painless and minimally invasive drug delivery device initially developed in 1976. As microneedle technology evolves, microneedles with different shapes (cone and pyramid) and forms (solid, drug-coated, hollow, dissolvable and hydrogel-based microneedles) have been developed. The main objective of this review is the applications of microneedles in biomedical areas. Firstly, the classifications and manufacturing of microneedle are briefly introduced so that we can learn the advantages and fabrications of different MNs. Secondly, research of microneedles in biomedical therapy such as drug delivery systems, diagnoses of disease, as well as wound repair and cancer therapy are overviewed. Finally, the safety and the vision of the future of MNs are discussed.
Pharmacological and Therapeutic Potential of Myristicin: A Literature Review
Authors: Seneme Elisa Frederico , dos Santos Daiane Carla , Silva Evelyn Marcela Rodrigues , Franco Yollanda Edwirges Moreira , Longato Giovanna Barbarini
Published: September 2021

Natural products have been used by humanity for many centuries to treat various illnesses and with the advancement of technology, it became possible to isolate the substances responsible for the beneficial effects of these products, as well as to understand their mechanisms. In this context, myristicin, a substance of natural origin, has shown several promising activities in a large number of in vitro and in vivo studies carried out. This molecule is found in plants such as nutmeg, parsley, carrots, peppers, and several species endemic to the Asian continent. The purpose of this review article is to discuss data published in the last 10 years at Pubmed, Lilacs and Scielo databases, reporting beneficial effects, toxicity and promising data of myristicin for its future use in medicine. From 94 articles found in the literature, 68 were included. Exclusion criteria took into account articles whose tested extracts did not have myristicin as one of the major compounds.
New Scabimycins A-C Isolated from Streptomyces acidiscabies (Lu19992)
Authors: Paulus Constanze , Zapp Josef , Luzhetskyy Andriy
Published: September 2021

Peptide natural products displaying a wide range of biological activities have become important drug candidates over the years. Microorganisms have been a powerful source of such bioactive peptides, and Streptomyces have yielded many novel natural products thus far. In an effort to uncover such new, meaningful compounds, the metabolome of Streptomyces acidiscabies was analyzed thoroughly. Three new compounds, scabimycins A–C (1–3), were discovered, and their chemical structures were elucidated by NMR spectroscopy. The relative and absolute configurations were determined using ROESY NMR experiments and advanced Marfey’s method.
Red GaPAs/GaP Nanowire-Based Flexible Light-Emitting Diodes
Authors: Neplokh Vladimir , Fedorov Vladimir , Mozharov Alexey , Kochetkov Fedor , Shugurov Konstantin , Moiseev Eduard , Amador-Mendez Nuño , Statsenko Tatiana , Morozova Sofia , Krasnikov Dmitry , Nasibulin Albert G. , Islamova Regina , Cirlin George , Tchernycheva Maria , Mukhin Ivan
Published: September 2021

We demonstrate flexible red light-emitting diodes based on axial GaPAs/GaP heterostructured nanowires embedded in polydimethylsiloxane membranes with transparent electrodes involving single-walled carbon nanotubes. The GaPAs/GaP axial nanowire arrays were grown by molecular beam epitaxy, encapsulated into a polydimethylsiloxane film, and then released from the growth substrate. The fabricated free-standing membrane of light-emitting diodes with contacts of single-walled carbon nanotube films has the main electroluminescence line at 670 nm. Membrane-based light-emitting diodes (LEDs) were compared with GaPAs/GaP NW array LED devices processed directly on Si growth substrate revealing similar electroluminescence properties. Demonstrated membrane-based red LEDs are opening an avenue for flexible full color inorganic devices.
A Numerical Investigation of a Plasmonic Sensor Based on a Metal-Insulator-Metal Waveguide for Simultaneous Detection of Biological Analytes and Ambient Temperature
Authors: Kazanskiy Nikolay L. , Khonina Svetlana N. , Butt Muhammad A. , Kaźmierczak Andrzej , Piramidowicz Ryszard
Published: September 2021

A multipurpose plasmonic sensor design based on a metal-insulator-metal (MIM) waveguide is numerically investigated in this paper. The proposed design can be instantaneously employed for biosensing and temperature sensing applications. The sensor consists of two simple resonant cavities having a square and circular shape, with the side coupled to an MIM bus waveguide. For biosensing operation, the analytes can be injected into the square cavity while a thermo-optic polymer is deposited in the circular cavity, which provides a shift in resonance wavelength according to the variation in ambient temperature. Both sensing processes work independently. Each cavity provides a resonance dip at a distinct position in the transmission spectrum of the sensor, which does not obscure the analysis process. Such a simple configuration embedded in the single-chip can potentially provide a sensitivity of 700 nm/RIU and −0.35 nm/°C for biosensing and temperature sensing, respectively. Furthermore, the figure of merit (FOM) for the biosensing module and temperature sensing module is around 21.9 and 0.008, respectively. FOM is the ratio between the sensitivity of the device and width of the resonance dip. We suppose that the suggested sensor design can be valuable in twofold ways: (i) in the scenarios where the testing of the biological analytes should be conducted in a controlled temperature environment and (ii) for reducing the influence on ambient temperature fluctuations on refractometric measurements in real-time mode.
Ultraflexible Liposome Nanocargo as a Dermal and Transdermal Drug Delivery System
Authors: Sudhakar Kalvatala , Fuloria Shivkanya , Subramaniyan Vetriselvan , Sathasivam Kathiresan V. , Azad Abul Kalam , Swain Shasank S. , Sekar Mahendran , Karupiah Sundram , Porwal Omji , Sahoo Alaka , Meenakshi Dhanalekshmi Unnikrishnan , Sharma Vipin Kumar , Jain Sanjay , Charyulu R. Narayana , Fuloria Neeraj Kumar
Published: September 2021

A selected active pharmaceutical ingredient must be incorporated into a cargo carrier in a particular manner so that it achieves its goal. An amalgamation of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) should be conducted in such a manner that it is simple, professional, and more beneficial. Lipids/polymers that are known to be used in nanocarriers for APIs can be transformed into a vesicular formulation, which offers elegant solutions to many problems. Phospholipids with other ingredients, such as ethanol and water, form suitable vesicular carriers for many drugs, overcoming many problems related to poor bioavailability, poor solubility, etc. Ultraflexible liposomes are novel carriers and new frontiers of drug delivery for transdermal systems. Auxiliary advances in vesicular carrier research have been made, enabling polymer-coated ethanolic liposomes to avoid detection by the body’s immune system—specifically, the cells of the reticuloendothelial system. Ultraflexible liposomes act as a cargo system and a nanotherapeutic approach for the transport of therapeutic drugs and bioactive agents. Various applications of liposome derivatives in different diseases are emphasized in this review.
Highly Stable Pickering Emulsions with Xylan Hydrate Nanocrystals
Authors: Wang Shanyong , Xiang Zhouyang
Published: September 2021

Xylan is a highly abundant plant-based biopolymer. Original xylans in plants are in an amorphous state, but deacetylated and low-branched xylan can form a crystalline structure with water molecules. The utilizations of xylan have been limited to bulk applications either with inconsistency and uncertainty or with extensive chemical derivatization due to the insufficient studies on its crystallization. The applications of xylan could be greatly broadened in advanced green materials if xylan crystals are effectively utilized. In this paper, we show a completely green production of nano-sized xylan crystals and propose their application in forming Pickering emulsions. The branches of xylan were regulated during the separation step to controllably induce the formation of xylan hydrate crystals. Xylan hydrate nanocrystals (XNCs) with a uniform size were successfully produced solely by a mild ultrasonic treatment. XNCs can be adsorbed onto oil–water interfaces at a high density to form highly stable Pickering emulsions. The emulsifying properties of XNCs were comparable to some synthetic emulsifiers and better than some other common biopolymer nanocrystals, demonstrating that XNCs have great potential in industrial emulsification.
PbS Quantum Dots Saturable Absorber for Dual-Wavelength Solitons Generation
Authors: Yun Ling , Zhao Wei
Published: September 2021

PbS quantum dots (QDs), a representative zero-dimensional material, have attracted great interest due to their unique optical, electronic, and chemical characteristics. Compared to one- and two-dimensional materials, PbS QDs possess strong absorption and an adjustable bandgap, which are particularly fascinating in near-infrared applications. Here, fiber-based PbS QDs as a saturable absorber (SA) are studied for dual-wavelength ultrafast pulses generation for the first time to our knowledge. By introducing PbS QDs SA into an erbium-doped fiber laser, the laser can simultaneously generate dual-wavelength conventional solitons with central wavelengths of 1532 and 1559 nm and 3 dB bandwidths of 2.8 and 2.5 nm, respectively. The results show that PbS QDs as broadband SAs have potential application prospects for the generation of ultrafast lasers.
Alcohol’s Impact on the Fetus
Authors: Popova Svetlana , Dozet Danijela , Shield Kevin , Rehm Jürgen , Burd Larry
Published: September 2021

Background: Alcohol is a teratogen and prenatal exposure may adversely impact the developing fetus, increasing risk for negative outcomes, including Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). Global trends of increasing alcohol use among women of childbearing age due to economic development, changing gender roles, increased availability of alcohol, peer pressure and social acceptability of women’s alcohol use may put an increasing number of pregnancies at risk for prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE). This risk has been exacerbated by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic in some countries. Method: This literature review presents an overview on the epidemiology of alcohol use among childbearing age and pregnant women and FASD by World Health Organization regions; impact of PAE on fetal health, including FASD; associated comorbidities; and social outcomes. Results/Conclusion: The impact of alcohol on fetal health and social outcomes later in life is enormous, placing a huge economic burden on countries. Prevention of prenatal alcohol exposure and early identification of affected individuals should be a global public health priority.
The Complex Interplay between Immunonutrition, Mast Cells, and Histamine Signaling in COVID-19
Authors: Kakavas Sotirios , Karayiannis Dimitrios , Mastora Zafeiria
Published: September 2021

There is an ongoing need for new therapeutic modalities against SARS-CoV-2 infection. Mast cell histamine has been implicated in the pathophysiology of COVID-19 as a regulator of proinflammatory, fibrotic, and thrombogenic processes. Consequently, mast cell histamine and its receptors represent promising pharmacological targets. At the same time, nutritional modulation of immune system function has been proposed and is being investigated for the prevention of COVID-19 or as an adjunctive strategy combined with conventional therapy. Several studies indicate that several immunonutrients can regulate mast cell activity to reduce the de novo synthesis and/or release of histamine and other mediators that are considered to mediate, at least in part, the complex pathophysiology present in COVID-19. This review summarizes the effects on mast cell histamine of common immunonutrients that have been investigated for use in COVID-19.
A Six-Day, Lifestyle-Based Immersion Program Mitigates Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Induces Shifts in Gut Microbiota, Specifically Lachnospiraceae, Ruminococcaceae, Faecalibacterium prausnitzii: A Pilot Study
Authors: Ahrens Angelica P. , Culpepper Tyler , Saldivar Brittany , Anton Stephen , Stoll Scott , Handberg Eileen M. , Xu Ke , Pepine Carl , Triplett Eric W. , Aggarwal Monica
Published: September 2021

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevalence remains elevated globally. We have previously shown that a one-week lifestyle “immersion program” leads to clinical improvements and sustained improvements in quality of life in moderate to high atherosclerotic CVD (ASCVD) risk individuals. In a subsequent year of this similarly modeled immersion program, we again collected markers of cardiovascular health and, additionally, evaluated intestinal microbiome composition. ASCVD risk volunteers (n = 73) completed the one-week “immersion program” involving nutrition (100% plant-based foods), stress management education, and exercise. Anthropometric measurements and CVD risk factors were compared at baseline and post intervention. A subgroup (n = 22) provided stool, which we analyzed with 16S rRNA sequencing. We assessed abundance changes within-person, correlated the abundance shifts with clinical changes, and inferred functional pathways using PICRUSt. Reductions in blood pressure, total cholesterol, and triglycerides, were observed without reduction in weight. Significant increases in butyrate producers were detected, including Lachnospiraceae and Oscillospirales. Within-person, significant shifts in relative abundance (RA) occurred, e.g., increased Lachnospiraceae (+58.8% RA, p = 0.0002), Ruminococcaceae (+82.1%, p = 0.0003), Faecalibacterium prausnitzii (+54.5%, p = 0.002), and diversification and richness. Microbiota changes significantly correlated with body mass index (BMI), blood pressure (BP), cholesterol, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), glucose, and trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) changes. Pairwise decreases were inferred in microbial genes corresponding to cancer, metabolic disease, and amino acid metabolism. This brief lifestyle-based intervention improved lipids and BP and enhanced known butyrate producers, without significant weight loss. These results demonstrate a promising non-pharmacological preventative strategy for improving cardiovascular health.