bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical and Genetic Risk Factors for Drug-Induced Liver Injury Associated with Anti-Tuberculosis Treatment—A Study from Patients of Portuguese Health Centers
Authors: Cavaco Maria João , Alcobia Celeste , Oliveiros Bárbara , Mesquita Luís Alcides , Carvalho Aurora , Matos Fernando , Carvalho José Miguel , Villar Miguel , Duarte Raquel , Mendes João , Ribeiro Carolina , Cordeiro Carlos Robalo , Regateiro Fernando , Silva Henriqueta Coimbra
Published: May 2022

Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is an unpredictable and feared side effect of antituberculosis treatment (AT). The present study aimed to identify clinical and genetic variables associated with susceptibility to AT-associated hepatotoxicity in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis treated with a standard protocol. Of 233 patients enrolled, 90% prospectively, 103 developed liver injury: 37 with mild and 66 with severe phenotype (DILI). All patients with mild hepatitis had a RUCAM score ≥4 and all patients with DILI had a RUCAM score ≥ 6. Eight clinical variables and variants in six candidate genes were assessed. A logistic multivariate regression analysis identified four risk factors for AT-DILI: age ≥ 55 years (OR:3.67; 95% CI:1.82–7.41; p < 0.001), concomitant medication with other hepatotoxic drugs (OR:2.54; 95% CI:1.23–5.26; p = 0.012), NAT2 slow acetylator status (OR:2.46; 95% CI:1.25–4.84; p = 0.009), and carriers of p.Val444Ala variant for ABCB11 gene (OR:2.06; 95%CI:1.02–4.17; p = 0.044). The statistical model explains 24.9% of the susceptibility to AT-DILI, with an 8.9 times difference between patients in the highest and in the lowest quartiles of risk scores. This study sustains the complex architecture of AT-DILI. Prospective studies should evaluate the benefit of NAT2 and ABCB11 genotyping in AT personalization, particularly in patients over 55 years.
Composite Materials Based on Gelatin and Iron Oxide Nanoparticles for MRI Accuracy
Authors: Drobota Mioara , Vlad Stelian , Gradinaru Luiza Madalina , Bargan Alexandra , Radu Iulian , Butnaru Maria , Rîmbu Cristina Mihaela , Ciobanu Romeo Cristian , Aflori Magdalena
Published: May 2022

The majority of recent studies have focused on obtaining MRI materials for internal use. However, this study focuses on a straightforward method for preparing gelatin-based materials with iron oxide nanoparticles (G–Fe2O3 and G–Fe3O4) for external use. The newly obtained materials must be precisely tuned to match the requirements and usage situation because they will be in close touch with human/animal skin. The biocompatible structures formed by gelatin, tannic acid, and iron oxide nanoparticles were investigated by using FTIR spectroscopy, SEM-EDAX analysis, and contact angle methods. The physico-chemical properties were obtained by using mechanical investigations, dynamic vapor sorption analysis, and bulk magnetic determination. The size and shape of iron oxide nanoparticles dictates the magnetic behavior of the gelatin-based samples. The magnetization curves revealed a typical S-shaped superparamagnetic behavior which is evidence of improved MRI image accuracy. In addition, the MTT assay was used to demonstrate the non-toxicity of the samples, and the antibacterial test confirmed satisfactory findings for all G-based materials.
Advances in Permanent Deformation Modeling of Asphalt Concrete—A Review
Authors: Alamnie Mequanent Mulugeta , Taddesse Ephrem , Hoff Inge
Published: May 2022

Permanent deformation is one of the dominant asphalt concrete damages. Significant progress has been made to realistically predict the damage. In the last decade, the mechanistic approach has been the focus of research, and the fundamental theories of viscoelasticity, viscoplasticity, continuum mechanics, and micromechanics are applied to develop the material laws (constitutive equations). This paper reviews the advancement of permanent deformation models including analogical, microstructural, and continuum-based methods. Pavement analysis using the nonlinear damage approach (PANDA) is the most comprehensive and theoretically sound approach that is available in the literature. The model coupled different damages and other phenomena (such as cracking, moisture, and phenomena such as healing, aging, etc.). The anisotropic microstructure approach can be incorporated into the PANDA approach for a more realistic prediction. Moreover, the interaction of fatigue and permanent deformation is the gap that is lacking in the literature. The mechanistic approaches have the capacity to couple these damages for unified asphalt concrete damage prediction.
Numerical Study of the Optimum Fiber Content of Sealing Grease Using Discrete Element Method
Authors: Zhou Xiong , Wei Yingjie , Yang Yuyou , Xu Pengfei
Published: May 2022

A sealing grease plays a crucial role in the sealing of shield tails. Its pumpability and pressure sealing resistant sealing performance are greatly affected by the fiber content. In this study, discrete element method models were used to simulate the pressure-resistant tests of sealing grease in order to investigate the influence of viscosity grade and fiber’s aspect ratio on the optimum fiber content of sealing grease. Meanwhile, the rationality of the optimum fiber number determined based on the sealing performance was verified with the unbalanced force and fiber area proportion obtained in the simulation, of which the variation curves with the increasing fiber number were practically identical. The simulation results elucidated that the viscosity of grease had little effect on the optimum fiber content for sealing grease. However, the increase in viscosity can improve the sealing effect, and increasing the fiber’s aspect ratio can reduce the fiber number to reach a specific seal state. Based on the analysis of the total number of fiber spheres for the models with different fiber’s respect ratios, it can be concluded that the sealing grease sample made of the same fiber material and quality can reach the same seal state and seal effect, independent on fiber’s aspect ratio.
Green Deal and Circular Economy of Bottom Ash Waste Management in Building Industry—Alkali (NaOH) Pre-Treatment
Authors: Poranek Nikolina , Łaźniewska-Piekarczyk Beata , Lombardi Lidia , Czajkowski Adrian , Bogacka Magdalena , Pikoń Krzysztof
Published: May 2022

This study aims to investigate the possibilities of municipal waste incineration bottom ash (MSWIBA) utilization in the construction sector. MSWIBA development fits into the European Green Deal, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the Circular Economy (CE). This manuscript describes current MSWIBA treatment such as solidification, ceramization, vitrification, chemical activation (NaOH, CaOH2, NA2SiO3 + NaOH, Na2CO3 + NaOH, NH4OH), acid treatment with diluted solutions (HCl, H2SO4), chemical stabilization (FeSO4, PO43−), chelation, etc. For the purpose of comparative research, MSWIBA before valorization, after valorization, and after NaOH pre-treatment was investigated. In terms of their physico-chemical properties, the tested samples were examined. Three kinds of MSWIBA were used as a substitute for 30% of cement in mortars. The mortars were tested for 28-day strength. Leachability tests were performed in acid, aggressive, alkali, and neutral water environments. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) analysis was carried out, which presented the environmental benefits of MSWIBA management in construction.
Prediction of Deformation-Induced Martensite Start Temperature by Convolutional Neural Network with Dual Mode Features
Authors: Wang Chenchong , Ren Da , Li Yong , Wang Xu , Xu Wei
Published: May 2022

Various models were established for deformation-induced martensite start temperature prediction over decades. However, most of them are empirical or considering limited factors. In this research, a dual mode database for medium Mn steels was established and a convolutional neural network model, which considered all composition, critical processing information and microstructure images as inputs, was built for Msσ prediction. By comprehensively considering composition, processing and microstructure factors, this model was more rational and much more accurate than traditional thermodynamic models. Also, by the full use of images information, this model has stronger ability to overcome overfitting compared with various traditional machine learning models. This framework provides inspiration for the similar data analysis issues with small sample datasets but different data modes in the field of materials science.
Innovation Process for Optical Face Scanner Used to Customize 3D Printed Spectacles
Authors: Alionte Cristian Gabriel , Ungureanu Liviu Marian , Alexandru Tudor Mihai
Published: May 2022

Many people for different reasons end up wearing glasses to correct their vision. From time immemorial, there has been an unquestionable ability to associate people with glasses. Designing the glasses according to the physiognomy of each person opens a new path for a completely new optical experience. The frames are designed to fit perfectly on the face, are comfortable on the nose, and are positioned at an optimal distance from the cheeks and eyelashes. Three-dimensional printing technology offers the possibility to customize any form of glasses at a low cost with average quality. In this type of technology, the printer receives a digitized model of the spectacle frame (usually in STL file format) that must meet the parameters related to the wearer’s anatomy. Therefore, this paper presents an innovative process, an optical method used to scan the wearer’s face to design a parameterized design of the spectacle frames. The procedure has a measurement phase for quantifying the anatomical features of the wearer’s face, a para-metric design phase of the glasses for adjusting the design parameters according to the anatomical characteristics, and a manufacturing phase in which the custom eyeglass frame will be manufactured using 3D printing technology. The aim of this study was to create an innovative process that could be tested as an educational 3D printing system that could be used by undergraduate students (studying under an optometry program), a process that would begin at optometric prescription stage and can be used in the educational laboratory of the Department of Mechatronics and Precision Mechanics from the Politehnica University of Bucharest. Using this method we obtained a custom spectacle frame that can be prototyped using 3D printing. The 3D-printed polylactic acid (PLA) frames are lightweight, flexible, durable, and the innovative photogrammetry process gives designers the ability to create custom designs that cannot be created with traditional manufacturing techniques.
Medium- and Long-Term Re-Treatment of Root Canals Filled with a Calcium Silicate-Based Sealer: An Experimental Ex Vivo Study
Authors: Bardini Giulia , Cotti Elisabetta , Congiu Terenzio , Caria Claudia , Aru Davide , Mercadè Montse
Published: May 2022

This study investigated the possibility of re-treating a calcium silicate-based sealer (CSBS), compared to an epoxy-resin sealer (RBS), using rotary instrumentation at different times from obturation (1 month/1 year). Thirty-six human mandibular premolars, extracted as a result of orthodontic or periodontal problems, were instrumented and randomly divided into three groups of 12: BR and BR*, which were filled with CSBS and re-treated after one month and one year of storage, respectively, and AH, which was filled with RBS and re-treated after one month. The same re-treatment protocol was used for all teeth, and the times required for the procedure was recorded. The re-treated specimens were longitudinally sectioned and examined at the stereomicroscope (SM) at 20× magnification. Image J Software was used to process the microphotographs. The percentage of residual filling materials in the root canal and the apical third, the ability to reach working length WL and patency, and the time taken to complete the re-treatment were recorded and analyzed by ANOVA and post hoc Bonferroni test (p = 0.05). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and coupled energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) were applied to representative samples to evaluate canal cleanliness and chemical elements. Patency and WL were re-established in all of the teeth. Residual filling materials were retained in all specimens of the three groups. The mean percentage of residual materials was significantly different between BR and BR* (p-value = 0.048), with BR* showing the highest values. The mean time to complete re-treatment was significantly lower for AH, followed by BR (p = 0.0001) and BR* (p = 0.0078). Conclusions: After both medium and long storage periods, the CSBS can be concluded to have been successfully removed from canals with simple anatomy.
Ecotoxicity of Recycled Aggregates: Application of a Prediction Methodology
Authors: Maia Margarida B. , de Brito Jorge , Martins Isabel M. , Silvestre José D.
Published: May 2022

Due to environmental concerns, the search for sustainable construction solutions has been increasing over the years. This global concern is creating a trend in the use of recycled aggregates resulting from construction and demolition wastes from different sources. In addition to their physical and mechanical properties, it is important to analyse their ecotoxicological risk to determine whether their leachates might be an issue. To assess ecotoxicity, biological tests should be performed for different trophic levels. This type of test is expensive and needs a high level of expertise, which leads to a lack of studies on recycled aggregates including ecotoxicity analysis. This paper presents a set of predictive ecotoxicity results based on the published studies on recycled aggregates. These results are the outcome of applying an innovative methodology previously developed and validated by the authors aiming to foresee the ecotoxicological fate of building materials’ constituents and products. The application of this methodology enables the classification of a recycled aggregate product as safe or unsafe in terms of ecotoxicity risk, while keeping biological testing to a minimum.
Experimental Study on Recentering Behavior of Precompressed Polyurethane Springs
Authors: Ju Young-Hun , Mansouri Iman , Hu Jong-Wan
Published: May 2022

Traditional seismic design has a limitation in that its performance is reduced by significant permanent deformation after plastic behavior under an external load. The recentering characteristics of smart materials are considered to be a means to supplement the limitations of conventional seismic design. In general, the recentering characteristics of smart materials are determined by their physical properties, whereas polyurethane springs can regulate the recentering characteristics by controlling the precompression strain. Therefore, in this study, 160 polyurethane spring specimens were fabricated with compressive stiffness, specimen size, and precompression strain as design variables. The compression behavior and precompression behavior were studied by performing cyclic loading tests on a polyurethane spring. The maximum stress and maximum strain of the polyurethane spring showed a linear relationship. Precompression and recentering forces have an almost perfect linear relationship, and the optimal level of precompression at which residual strain does not occur was derived through regression analysis. Additionally, a prediction model for predicting recentering force based on the linear relationship between precompression and recentering force was presented.
100th Anniversary of Brillouin Scattering: Impact on Materials Science
Authors: Kojima Seiji
Published: May 2022

L. Brillouin predicted inelastic light scattering by thermally excited sound waves in 1922. Brillouin scattering is a non-contact and non-destructive method to measure sound velocity and attenuation. It is possible to investigate the elastic properties of gases, liquids, glasses, and crystals. Various kinds of phase transitions, i.e., liquid–glass transitions, crystallization, polymorphism, and denaturation have been studied by changing the temperature, pressure, time, and external fields such as the electric, magnetic, and stress fields. Nowadays, Brillouin scattering is extensively used to measure various elementary excitations and quasi-elastic scattering in the gigahertz range between 0.1 and 1000 GHz. A brief history, spectroscopic methods, and Brillouin scattering studies in materials science on ferroelectric materials, glasses, and proteins are reviewed.
Recent Progress of Adsorptive Ultrafiltration Membranes in Water Treatment—A Mini Review
Authors: Yu Tong , Zhou Jing , Liu Feng , Xu Bao-Ming , Pan Yong
Published: May 2022

Adsorptive ultrafiltration mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) are a new strategy, developed in recent years, to remove harmful cations and small-molecule organics from wastewater and drinking water, which achieve ultrafiltration and adsorption functions in one unit and are considered to be among the promising technologies that have exhibited efficiency and competence in water reuse. This mini review concerns the research progress of adsorptive ultrafiltration MMMs for removing heavy metal ions and small-molecule organics. We firstly introduce the types and classifications of adsorptive ultrafiltration MMMs (their classifications can be established based on the type of the adsorbent used). Furthermore, we discuss the removal mechanism of adsorptive ultrafiltration MMMs, as well as summarizing the main fabrication techniques for adsorptive ultrafiltration membranes. In addition, we identified some of the issues and challenges of the practical application for adsorptive ultrafiltration.
Application of Thionocarbamates in Copper Slag Flotation
Authors: Štirbanović Zoran , Urošević Daniela , Đorđević Milica , Sokolović Jovica , Aksić Nemanja , Živadinović Novka , Milutinović Sandra
Published: May 2022

Thionocarbamates are the group of collectors that are mostly used for flotation of sulphide copper minerals, alone or in combination with xanthates depending on a mineralogical composition of the ore. In this paper, the results of the study of application of thionocarbamates in copper slag flotation are presented. Chemical analysis of smelter slag sample obtained from Flotation plant in Bor, Serbia, showed that it contains 3.56% of copper, of which over 73% is in the sulphide form, as well as 0.58 g/t of gold and 11.30 g/t of silver. XRD analysis identified fayalite and magnetite as main minerals present in the slag and SEM-EDS analysis showed that copper is mainly present in the form of sulphide minerals, thus making it suitable for flotation with thionocarbamates. Two thionocarbamates MX 980 and TC 1000 and one xanthate SIPX, along with their mixtures MX 980 + SIPX and TC 1000 + SIPX, were investigated. The influence of parameters such as collector type and dosage, grinding fineness, pulps’ pH and flotation time, on flotation indicators (recovery, yield and copper grade in concentrate) were determined. Smaller dosages of thionocarbamates (40 g/t) provided concentrates with high copper grades, 22.34% (MX 980) and 18.42% (TC 1000) and lower recovery rates, 83.98% (MX 980) and 87.78% (TC 1000), while the increase of dosages to 200 g/t led to the increase of recovery rates for more than 4% and a significant decrease in copper grades. The increase of grinding fineness from 50% to 70% of grain size < 0.074 mm showed a positive impact on flotation indicators, recovery rate, copper grade and yield, for all investigated collectors and their mixtures, while, with the further increase from 70% to 90%, recovery rates continued to increase while copper grades decreased. The increase of pulps’ pH had a positive influence, especially for MX 980, for which recovery rates increased with the increase of pH from 8 to 10 (12). A flotation kinetics test showed that flotation with TC 1000 was the fastest, i.e., recovery rate after 20 min of flotation was over 91%, while recoveries obtained with other collectors were a few percentage points lower.
Pb-Bearing Ferrihydrite Bioreduction and Secondary-Mineral Precipitation during Fe Redox Cycling
Authors: Meite Fatima , Abdelmoula Mustapha , Billard Patrick , Hauet Thomas , Zegeye Asfaw
Published: May 2022

The significant accumulation of Pb from anthropogenic activities threatens environmental ecosystems. In the environment, iron oxides are one of the main carriers of Pb. Thus, the redox cycling of iron oxides, which is due to biotic and abiotic pathways, and which leads to their dissolution or transformation, controls the fate of Pb. However, a knowledge gap exists on the bioreduction in Pb-bearing ferrihydrites, secondary-mineral precipitation, and Pb partitioning during the bioreduction/oxidation/bioreduction cycle. In this study, Pb-bearing ferrihydrite (Fh_Pb) with various Pb/(Fe+Pb) molar ratios (i.e., 0, 2, and 5%) were incubated with the iron-reducing bacterium Shewanella oneidensis MR-1 for 7 days, oxidized for 7 days (atmospheric O2), and bioreduced a second time for 7 days. Pb doping led to a drop in the rate and the extent of the reduction. Lepidocrocite (23–56%) and goethite (44–77%) formed during the first reduction period. Magnetite (72–84%) formed during the second reduction. The extremely-low-dissolved and bioavailable Pb concentrations were measured during the redox cycles, which indicates that the Pb significantly sorbed onto the minerals that were formed. Overall, this study highlights the influence of Pb and redox cycling on the bioreduction of Pb-bearing iron oxides, as well as on the nature of the secondary minerals that are formed.
Extraction of Gold and Copper from Flotation Tailings Using Glycine-Ammonia Solutions in the Presence of Permanganate
Authors: Li Huan , Oraby Elsayed , Eksteen Jacques , Mali Tanmay
Published: May 2022

This study presents the novel idea of a cyanide-free leaching method, i.e., glycine-ammonia leaching in the presence of permanganate, to treat a low-grade and copper-bearing gold tailing. Ammonia played a key role as a pH modifier, lixiviant and potential catalyst (as cupric ammine) in this study. Replacing ammonia with other pH modifiers (i.e., sodium hydroxide or lime) made the extractions infeasibly low (<30%). The increased additions of glycine (23–93 kg/t), ammonia (30–157 kg/t) and permanganate (5–20 kg/t) enhanced gold and copper extractions considerably. Increasing the solids content from 20 to 40% did not make any obvious changes to copper extraction. However, gold leaching kinetics was slightly better at lower solids content. It was indicated that the staged addition of permanganate was unnecessary under the leaching conditions. Recovery of gold by CIL was shown to be feasible, and it improved gold extraction by 15%, but no effect was observed for copper extraction. Percentages of 76.5% gold and 64.5% copper were extracted in 48 h at 20 g/L glycine, 10 kg/t permanganate, 20 g/L carbon, pH 10.5 and 30% solids. Higher extractions could be potentially achieved by further optimization, such as by increasing permanganate addition, extending leaching time and ultra-fine grinding.
Effects of Al(III) Ions at Magnetite Flotation from Quartz by Dodecylamine Al(III)
Authors: Wang Dong , Tang Min , Wu Yan , Niu Xiaoying
Published: May 2022

The flotation separation of magnetite and quartz is a long-term challenge for the beneficiation industry. For high-quartz magnetite, conventional flotation shows poor separation effect, resulting in the waste of resources and low flotation efficiency. In this paper, dodecylamine acts as a collector and Al(III) ions in water act as a depressant to selectively separate magnetite and quartz at high alkalinity. The experimental results are analyzed by a micro-flotation experiment, solution chemical calculation, zeta potential, contact angle measurement, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The results of micro-flotation experiments showed that Al(III) ions in water inhibited magnetite more strongly than quartz. The calculation results of solution stoichiometry and zeta potential showed that the phase formed by Al(III) ions on the surface of magnetite and quartz are mainly Al(OH)3(s), which covers the surface of magnetite and quartz, The contact angle measurement results showed that with the addition of Al(III) ions, the contact angle of magnetite varies significantly than that of quartz, and the floatability of magnetite is lower than that of quartz. The FT-IR results further indicated that the addition of Al(III) ions could hinder the adsorption of dodecylamine on the magnetite surface. Meanwhile, the addition of Al(III) ions has no obvious effect on the adsorption of dodecylamine on the quartz surface.
Evaluation of Sc Concentrations in Ni-Co Laterites Using Al as a Geochemical Proxy
Authors: Teitler Yoram , Favier Sylvain , Ambrosi Jean-Paul , Sevin Brice , Golfier Fabrice , Cathelineau Michel
Published: May 2022

Scandium (Sc) is used in several modern industrial applications. Recently, significant Sc concentrations (~100 ppm) were reported in some nickel-cobalt lateritic ores, where Sc may be valuably co-produced. However, Sc is typically not included in routine analyses of Ni-Co ores. This contribution examines the relevance of using routinely analysed elements as geochemical proxies for estimating Sc concentration and distribution. Three Ni-Co lateritic deposits from New Caledonia were investigated. In each deposit, Sc is well correlated with Al2O3. The slopes of deposit-scale Sc-Al2O3 regression lines are remarkably controlled by the composition of enstatite from the parent peridotite. In all deposits, maximum Sc enrichment occurs in the yellow limonite, above the highest Ni and Co enrichment zones. Sc- and Al-bearing crystalline goethite is predominant in the oxide-rich zones, though Sc shows a higher affinity for amorphous iron oxides than Al. We propose that, in already assayed Ni-Co lateritic ores, the concentration and distribution of Sc can be estimated from that of Al. Deposit-scale Sc-Al2O3 correlations may be determined after analysing a limited number of spatially and chemically representative samples. Therefore, mining operators may get a first-order evaluation of the Sc potential resource in Ni-Co lateritic deposits at low additional costs.
Mining Residues Characterization and Sentinel-2A Mapping for the Valorization and Efficient Resource Use by Multidisciplinary Strategy
Authors: Guglietta Daniela , Conte Aida Maria , Paciucci Matteo , Passeri Daniele , Trapasso Francesca , Salvatori Rosamaria
Published: May 2022

Raw materials are essential for all sectors of the economy as well as for all innovative technologies. Currently, industry is largely dependent on imports and consumption of these materials, and in the future, following the global energy transition, this trend will drastically increase. For this reason, it is necessary to develop new strategies to meet the supply–demand of raw materials by strategic sectors and technologies. To this end, mining residues are turning into viable raw materials sources as they represent reliable access to valuable resource supply. This work aims to validate a methodology providing more in-depth quali-quantitative information about 100 samples of mining residues collected in the Joda West mine (India) by multidisciplinary strategy in order to valorize and promote efficient resource use. In this paper, physicochemical and mineralogical characterization and hyperspectral signatures have been integrated with satellite Sentinel-2A data. In particular, the X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) analyses indicated the presence of mining residues samples rich in raw materials that were possible to spectrally distinguish in order to use them as input for the object-oriented classification of a satellite image. The satellite resulting map highlighted four different classes of mining residues with mean concentrations of around 36% for hematite, 23.5% for quartz, 9% for kaolinite and 5% for pyrolusite. These results represent the possibility of transforming an environmental problem (mining residues) into a resource potentially exploitable by industries knowing their composition and position in the study area. Moreover, by doing so, it will be possible to ensure sustainable consumption of the raw materials and to build resilient economies and societies, minimizing environmental degradation.
Study on the Influence of Shear Indenter Parameters on the In Situ Shear Strength Test
Authors: Hu Jianhua , Xiang Rui , Wen Guanping , Ma Shaowei , Pang Le
Published: May 2022

Cohesion and friction angle are important indicators of shear strength in mining engineering. Indoor testing methods are detached from the actual state of the rock mass and affected by disturbances and significant dimensional effects that do not fully reflect the shear strength of the rock mass itself. In situ borehole shear testing is of great practical importance because of its low disturbance and high speed. In this paper, a new testing device based on the principle of a rock borehole shear tester was designed to simulate the shear test in the laboratory. Seven shear indenters were designed to test the effect of different tooth heights, spacing, and angles on the shear strength of rock-like specimens, and the damage surface was scanned in three dimensions and compared with conventional triaxial tests and compression shear tests. The results show that as the tooth height increases, the flatness of the press-in damage surface increases, and the results will be closer to the press-shear test. As the spacing increases, the maximum damage angle and the damage surface between the grooves gradually decrease. The tooth angle has little effect on the friction angle, but cohesion decreases significantly when exceeds 60°.
Microwave-Assisted Post-Ugi Reactions for the Synthesis of Polycycles
Authors: Song Liangliang , Cai Lingchao , Van der Eycken Erik V.
Published: May 2022

Microwave irradiation and post-Ugi reactions own their respective advantages in comparison with other strategies. The combination of microwave irradiation and post-Ugi reactions shows paramount importance in the construction of polycycles. This minireview outlines the recent developments of microwave-assisted post-Ugi reactions for the synthesis of polycycles. Through transition metal-catalyzed or transition metal-free transformations, diverse polycycles are prepared in an efficient, rapid, and step-economical manner.
Preparation and Electrochemical Characterization of Si@C Nanoparticles as an Anode Material for Lithium-Ion Batteries via Solvent-Assisted Wet Coating Process
Authors: Hwang Jongha , Jung Mincheol , Park Jin-Ju , Kim Eun-Kyung , Lee Gunoh , Lee Kyung Jin , Choi Jae-Hak , Song Woo-Jin
Published: May 2022

Silicon-based electrodes are widely recognized as promising anodes for high-energy-density lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Silicon is a representative anode material for next-generation LIBs due to its advantages of being an abundant resource and having a high theoretical capacity and a low electrochemical reduction potential. However, its huge volume change during the charge–discharge process and low electrical conductivity can be critical problems in its utilization as a practical anode material. In this study, we solved the problem of the large volume expansion of silicon anodes by using the carbon coating method with a low-cost phenolic resin that can be used to obtain high-performance LIBs. The surrounding carbon layers on the silicon surface were well made from a phenolic resin via a solvent-assisted wet coating process followed by carbonization. Consequently, the electrochemical performance of the carbon-coated silicon anode achieved a high specific capacity (3092 mA h g−1) and excellent capacity retention (~100% capacity retention after 50 cycles and even 64% capacity retention after 100 cycles at 0.05 C). This work provides a simple but effective strategy for the improvement of silicon-based anodes for high-performance LIBs.
All-Inorganic Perovskite Solar Cells: Recent Advancements and Challenges
Authors: Maafa Ibrahim M.
Published: May 2022

Organic–inorganic metal-halide-based hybrid perovskite solar cells (SCs) have attracted a great deal of attention from researchers around the globe with their certified power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) having now increased to 25.2%. Nevertheless, organic–inorganic hybrid halide perovskite SCs suffer the serious drawback of instability with respect to moisture and heat. However, all-inorganic perovskite SCs have emerged as promising candidates to tackle the thermal instability problem. Since the introduction of all-inorganic perovskite materials to the field of perovskite photovoltaics in 2014, a plethora of research articles has been published focusing on this research topic. The PCE of all-inorganic PSCs has climbed to a record 18.4% and research is underway to enhance this. In this review, I survey the gradual progress of all-inorganic perovskites, their material design, the fabrication of high-quality perovskite films, energetics, major challenges and schemes opening new horizons toward commercialization. Furthermore, techniques to stabilize cubically phased low-bandgap inorganic perovskites are highlighted, as this is an indispensable requirement for stable and highly efficient SCs. In addition, I explain the various energy loss mechanisms at the interface and in the bulk of perovskite and charge-selective layers, and recap previously published reports on the curtailment of charge-carrier recombination losses.
Nanoarchitectonics of Carbon Nanostructures: Sodium Dodecyl Sulfonate @ Sodium Chloride System
Authors: Chen Qi , Li Haichao
Published: May 2022

Carbon nanostructures (carbon nanotubes, nano carbon spheres, layered carbon nanostructures) were prepared from a sodium dodecyl sulfonate @ sodium chloride system. Sodium dodecyl sulfonate was used as a carbon source. A sodium chloride crystal in the carbonization procedure was used to separate ordered aggregates of sodium dodecyl sulfonate. The results show that different carbon nanostructures were prepared at low concentrations (1CMC~5CMC) by controlling the concentration of sodium dodecyl sulfonate, such as nano carbon spheres and carbon nanotubes, and that layered carbon nanostructures were formed at high concentrations (10CMC). The prepared carbon nanostructures were characterized by transmission electron microscopy, fluorescence spectrometry and Raman spectrometry. The results of this experiment show that the surfactant @ salt system is a potential method for the preparation of carbon nanostructures.
Fabrication of Ultrafine, Highly Ordered Nanostructures Using Carbohydrate-Inorganic Hybrid Block Copolymers
Authors: Nishimura Taiki , Katsuhara Satoshi , Lee Chaehun , Ree Brian J. , Borsali Redouane , Yamamoto Takuya , Tajima Kenji , Satoh Toshifumi , Isono Takuya
Published: May 2022

Block copolymers (BCPs) have garnered considerable interest due to their ability to form microphase-separated structures suitable for nanofabrication. For these applications, it is critical to achieve both sufficient etch selectivity and a small domain size. To meet both requirements concurrently, we propose the use of oligosaccharide and oligodimethylsiloxane as hydrophilic and etch-resistant hydrophobic inorganic blocks, respectively, to build up a novel BCP system, i.e., carbohydrate-inorganic hybrid BCP. The carbohydrate-inorganic hybrid BCPs were synthesized via a click reaction between oligodimethylsiloxane with an azido group at each chain end and propargyl-functionalized maltooligosaccharide (consisting of one, two, and three glucose units). In the bulk state, small-angle X-ray scattering revealed that these BCPs microphase separated into gyroid, asymmetric lamellar, and symmetric lamellar structures with domain-spacing ranging from 5.0 to 5.9 nm depending on the volume fraction. Additionally, we investigated microphase-separated structures in the thin film state and discovered that the BCP with the most asymmetric composition formed an ultrafine and highly oriented gyroid structure as well as in the bulk state. After reactive ion etching, the gyroid thin film was transformed into a nanoporous-structured gyroid SiO2 material, demonstrating the material’s promising potential as nanotemplates.
Quantum Chemistry Study on the Structures and Electronic Properties of Bimetallic Ca2-Doped Magnesium Ca2Mgn (n = 1–15) Clusters
Authors: Li Chenggang , Cui Yingqi , Tian Hao , Ren Baozeng , Li Qingyang , Li Yuanyuan , Yang Hang
Published: May 2022

Here, by utilizing crystal structure analysis through the particle swarm optimization (CALYPSO) structural searching method with density functional theory (DFT), we investigate the systemic structures and electronic properties of Ca2Mgn (n = 1–15) clusters. Structural searches found that two Ca atoms prefer to occupy the external position of magnesium-doped systems at n = 2–14. Afterward, one Ca atom begins to move from the surface into the internal of the caged skeleton at n = 15. Calculations of the average binding energy, second-order difference of energies, and HOMO–LUMO gaps indicated that the pagoda construction Ca2Mg8 (as the magic cluster) has higher stability. In addition, the simulated IR and Raman spectra can provide theoretical guidance for future experimental and theoretical investigation. Last, further electronic properties were determined, including the charge transfer, density of states (DOS) and bonding characteristics. We hope that our work will provide theoretical and experimental guidance for developing magnesium-based nanomaterials in the future.
New Approach to Non-Invasive Tumor Model Monitoring via Self-Assemble Iron Containing Protein Nanocompartments
Authors: Gabashvili Anna N. , Efremova Maria V. , Vodopyanov Stepan S. , Chmelyuk Nelly S. , Oda Vera V. , Sarkisova Viktoria A. , Leonova Maria K. , Semkina Alevtina S. , Ivanova Anna V. , Abakumov Maxim A.
Published: May 2022

According to the World Health Organization, breast cancer is the most common oncological disease worldwide. There are multiple animal models for different types of breast carcinoma, allowing the research of tumor growth, metastasis, and angiogenesis. When studying these processes, it is crucial to visualize cancer cells for a prolonged time via a non-invasive method, for example, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In this study, we establish a new genetically encoded material based on Quasibacillus thermotolerans (Q.thermotolerans, Qt) encapsulin, stably expressed in mouse 4T1 breast carcinoma cells. The label consists of a protein shell containing an enzyme called ferroxidase. When adding Fe2+, a ferroxidase oxidizes Fe2+ to Fe3+, followed by iron oxide nanoparticles formation. Additionally, genes encoding mZip14 metal transporter, enhancing the iron transport, were inserted into the cells via lentiviral transduction. The expression of transgenic sequences does not affect cell viability, and the presence of magnetic nanoparticles formed inside encapsulins results in an increase in T2 relaxivity.
Nanomaterials Induced Genotoxicity in Plant: Methods and Strategies
Authors: Marmiroli Marta , Marmiroli Nelson , Pagano Luca
Published: May 2022

In recent years, plant-nanomaterial interactions have been studied, highlighting their effects at physiological and molecular levels. Transcriptomics and proteomics studies have shown pathways and targets of nanomaterial exposure and plant response, with particular regard to abiotic stress and oxidative stress. Only little information has been reported on engineered nanomaterial (ENMs) interactions with plant genetic material, both at a genomic and organellar DNAs level. Plants can be useful experimental material, considering they both contain chloroplast and mitochondrial DNAs and several plant genomes have been completely sequenced (e.g., Arabidopsis thaliana, Solanum lycoperiscum, Allium cepa, Zea mays, etc.). In this mini review, the methods and the evidence reported in the present literature concerning the level of genotoxicity induced by ENMs exposure have been considered. Consolidated and potential strategies, which can be applied to assess the nanomaterial genotoxicity in plants, are reviewed.
An Improved Humidity Sensor with GO-Mn-Doped ZnO Nanocomposite and Dimensional Orchestration of Comb Electrode for Effective Bulk Manufacturing
Authors: Priyadharshini Balashanmugam , Valsalal Prasad
Published: May 2022

The measurement and control of humidity is a major challenge that affects the sensing properties of sensors used in high-precision equipment manufacturing industries. Graphene Oxide(GO)-based materials have been extensively explored in humidity sensing applications because of their high surface area and functional groups. However, there is a lack of effective bulk-manufacturing processes for the synthesis of 2D-based nanocomposites with comb electrodes. Moreover, water intercalation within the layers of 2D materials increases recovery time. This work demonstrates the enhanced sensing characteristics of a capacitive/resistive GO-MnZnO nanocomposite humidity sensor produced using a cost-effective single-pot synthesis process. The in-plane sensing layer consistently improves sensitivity and reduces response time for a wide range of relative humidity measurements (10% to 90%). Interdigitated gold electrodes with varying numbers of fingers and spacing were fabricated using photolithography on a Si/SiO₂ for a consistent sensor device platform. The choice of nanomaterials, dimension of the sensor, and fabrication method influence the performance of the humidity sensor in a controlled environment. GO nanocomposites show significant improvement in response time (82.67 times greater at 40% RH) and sensitivity (95.7 times more at 60% RH). The response time of 4.5 s and recovery time of 21 s was significantly better for a wider range of relative humidity compared to the reduced GO-sensing layer and ZnMnO. An optimized 6 mm × 3 mm dimension sensor with a 28-fingers comb was fabricated with a metal-etching process. This is one of the most effective methods for bulk manufacturing. The performance of the sensing layer is comparable to established sensing nanomaterials that are currently used in humidity sensors, and hence can be extended for optimal bulk manufacturing with minimum electrochemical treatments.
Laurel Attenuates Dexamethasone-Induced Skeletal Muscle Atrophy In Vitro and in a Rat Model
Authors: Jia Huijuan , Yamashita Takanori , Li Xuguang , Kato Hisanori
Published: May 2022

Prevention of muscle atrophy contributes to improved quality of life and life expectancy. In this study, we investigated the effects of laurel, selected from 34 spices and herbs, on dexamethasone (DEX)-induced skeletal muscle atrophy and deciphered the underlying mechanisms. Co-treatment of C2C12 myotubes with laurel for 12 h inhibited the DEX-induced expression of intracellular ubiquitin ligases—muscle atrophy F-box (atrogin-1/MAFbx) and muscle RING finger 1 (MuRF1)—and reduction in myotube diameter. Male Wistar rats were supplemented with 2% laurel for 17 days, with DEX-induced skeletal muscle atrophy occurring in the last 3 days. Laurel supplementation inhibited the mRNA expression of MuRF1, regulated DNA damage and development 1 (Redd1), and forkhead box class O 1 (Foxo1) in the muscles of rats. Mechanistically, we evaluated the effects of laurel on the cellular proteolysis machinery—namely, the ubiquitin/proteasome system and autophagy—and the mTOR signaling pathway, which regulates protein synthesis. These data indicated that the amelioration of DEX-induced skeletal muscle atrophy induced by laurel, is mainly mediated by the transcriptional inhibition of downstream factors of the ubiquitin-proteasome system. Thus, laurel may be a potential food ingredient that prevents muscle atrophy.
Japanese Diet and Mortality, Disability, and Dementia: Evidence from the Ohsaki Cohort Study
Authors: Matsuyama Sanae , Shimazu Taichi , Tomata Yasutake , Zhang Shu , Abe Saho , Lu Yukai , Tsuji Ichiro
Published: May 2022

The Japanese dietary pattern has long been discussed as one of the factors behind the longevity of Japanese people. However, the health benefits of the Japanese dietary pattern have not been fully elucidated. We published the first report in the world regarding the relation between the Japanese dietary pattern and cardiovascular disease mortality in 2007 using cohort studies including Japanese residents of Ohsaki City, Miyagi Prefecture, Japan. Since then, we have developed the Japanese Diet Index (JDI) that was based on previous findings to assess the degree of the Japanese dietary pattern and to advance the evidence on the health effects of the Japanese dietary pattern. So far, we have explored the associations between the JDI score (in quartiles) and various outcomes. For all-cause mortality, in comparison to Q1 (the lowest), the multivariable hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CIs) were 0.92 (0.85–1.00) for Q2, 0.91 (0.83–0.99) for Q3, and 0.91 (0.83–0.99) for Q4 (the highest). For functional disability, the multivariable HRs (95%CIs) were 0.94 (0.81–1.09) for Q2, 0.90 (0.77–1.05) for Q3, and 0.79 (0.68–0.92) for Q4. For dementia, the multivariable HRs (95%CIs) were 0.88 (0.74–1.05) for Q2, 0.87 (0.73–1.04) for Q3, 0.79 (0.66–0.95) for Q4. In addition, people with higher adherence to the Japanese dietary pattern also showed decreases in disability and dementia risks. The purpose of this article was to review all six papers, summarize the health effects of the Japanese dietary pattern, and discuss implications for future research.
Effects of Digital Food Labels on Healthy Food Choices in Online Grocery Shopping
Authors: Fuchs Klaus L. , Lian Jie , Michels Leonard , Mayer Simon , Toniato Enrico , Tiefenbeck Verena
Published: May 2022

In order to induce the shift in consumer behavior necessary for the mitigation of diet-related diseases, front-of-package labels (FoPL) such as the Nutri-Score that support consumers in their efforts to identify nutritionally valuable products during grocery shopping have been found to be effective; however, they remain non-compulsory in most regions. Counter-intuitively, a similar stream of research on digital web-based FoPL does not yet exist, even though such digital labels hold several advantages over physical labels. Digital FoPL can provide scalable and personalized interventions, are easier to implement than physical labels, and are especially timely due to the recent increase in online grocery shopping. The goal of this study was to demonstrate the technical feasibility and intervention potential of novel, scalable, and passively triggered health behavior interventions distributed via easy-to-install web browser extensions designed to support healthy food choices via the inclusion of digital FoPL in online supermarkets. To that end, we developed a Chrome web browser extension for a real online supermarket and evaluated the effect of this digital food label intervention (i.e., display of the Nutri-Score next to visible products) on the nutritional quality of individuals’ weekly grocery shopping in a randomized controlled laboratory trial (N = 135). Compared to the control group, individuals exposed to the intervention chose products with a higher nutritional quality (e.g., 8% higher healthy trolley index (HETI), 3.3% less sugar, 7.5% less saturated fat). In particular, users with low food literacy seemed to benefit from the digital FoPL (e.g., 11% higher HETI, 10.5% less sugar, 5.5% less saturated fat). Furthermore, participants exposed to the food label advocated its introduction more strongly than the control group (p = 0.081). Consumers worldwide could easily install such applications to display digital food labels on their end devices, and would thus not have to wait for stakeholders in the food industry to eventually reach consensus on mandatory food label introduction.