bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adaptive Traits to Improve Durum Wheat Yield in Drought and Crown Rot Environments
Authors: Alahmad Samir , Kang Yichen , Dinglasan Eric , Mazzucotelli Elisabetta , Voss-Fels Kai P. , Able Jason A. , Christopher Jack , Bassi Filippo M. , Hickey Lee T.
Published: July 2020

Durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L. ssp. durum) production can experience significant yield losses due to crown rot (CR) disease. Losses are usually exacerbated when disease infection coincides with terminal drought. Durum wheat is very susceptible to CR, and resistant germplasm is not currently available in elite breeding pools. We hypothesize that deploying physiological traits for drought adaptation, such as optimal root system architecture to reduce water stress, might minimize losses due to CR infection. This study evaluated a subset of lines from a nested association mapping population for stay-green traits, CR incidence and yield in field experiments as well as root traits under controlled conditions. Weekly measurements of normalized difference vegetative index (NDVI) in the field were used to model canopy senescence and to determine stay-green traits for each genotype. Genome-wide association studies using DArTseq molecular markers identified quantitative trait loci (QTLs) on chromosome 6B (qCR-6B) associated with CR tolerance and stay-green. We explored the value of qCR-6B and a major QTL for root angle QTL qSRA-6A using yield datasets from six rainfed environments, including two environments with high CR disease pressure. In the absence of CR, the favorable allele for qSRA-6A provided an average yield advantage of 0.57 t·ha−1, whereas in the presence of CR, the combination of favorable alleles for both qSRA-6A and qCR-6B resulted in a yield advantage of 0.90 t·ha−1. Results of this study highlight the value of combining above- and belowground physiological traits to enhance yield potential. We anticipate that these insights will assist breeders to design improved durum varieties that mitigate production losses due to water deficit and CR.
An Overview of Different Strategies to Recreate the Physiological Environment in Experimental Erythropoiesis
Authors: Deleschaux Cécile , Moras Martina , Lefevre Sophie D. , Ostuni Mariano A.
Published: July 2020

Human erythropoiesis is a complex process leading to the production of mature, enucleated erythrocytes (RBCs). It occurs mainly at bone marrow (BM), where hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) are engaged in the early erythroid differentiation to commit into erythroid progenitor cells (burst-forming unit erythroid (BFU-E) and colony-forming unit erythroid (CFU-E)). Then, during the terminal differentiation, several erythropoietin-induced signaling pathways trigger the differentiation of CFU-E on successive stages from pro-erythroblast to reticulocytes. The latter are released into the circulation, finalizing their maturation into functional RBCs. This process is finely regulated by the physiological environment including the erythroblast-macrophage interaction in the erythroblastic island (EBI). Several human diseases have been associated with ineffective erythropoiesis, either by a defective or an excessive production of RBCs, as well as an increase or a hemoglobinization defect. Fully understanding the production of mature red blood cells is crucial for the comprehension of erythroid pathologies as well as to the field of transfusion. Many experimental approaches have been carried out to achieve a complete differentiation in vitro to produce functional biconcave mature RBCs. However, the various protocols usually fail to achieve enough quantities of completely mature RBCs. In this review, we focus on the evolution of erythropoiesis studies over the years, taking special interest in efforts that were made to include the microenvironment and erythroblastic islands paradigm. These more physiological approaches will contribute to a deeper comprehension of erythropoiesis, improve the treatment of dyserythropoietic disorders, and break through the barriers in massive RBCs production for transfusion.
Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Connects Inflammation to Breast Cancer
Authors: Guarnieri Tiziana
Published: July 2020

Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), an evolutionary conserved transcription factor, is a pleiotropic signal transductor. Thanks to its promiscuous ligand binding domain, during the evolution of eukaryotic cells its developmental functions were integrated with biosensor functions. Its activation by a multitude of endogenous and exogenous molecules stimulates its participation in several pathways, some of which are linked to inflammation and breast cancer (BC). Over time, the study of this malignancy has led to the identification of several therapeutic targets in cancer cells. An intense area of study is dedicated to BC phenotypes lacking adequate targets. In this context, due to its high constitutive activation in BC, AhR is currently gaining more and more attention. In this review, I have considered its interactions with: 1. the immune system, whose dysregulation is a renowned cancer hallmark; 2. interleukin 6 (IL6) which is a pivotal inflammatory marker and is closely correlated to breast cancer risk; 3. NF-kB, another evolutionary conserved transcription factor, which plays a key role in immunoregulatory functions, inflammatory response and breast carcinogenesis; 4. kynurenine, a tryptophan-derived ligand that activates and bridges AhR to chronic inflammation and breast carcinogenesis. Overall, the data here presented form an interesting framework where AhR is an interesting connector between inflammation and BC.
The Janus Role of Adhesion in Chondrogenesis
Authors: Casanellas Ignasi , Lagunas Anna , Vida Yolanda , Pérez-Inestrosa Ezequiel , Andrades José A. , Becerra José , Samitier Josep
Published: July 2020

Tackling the first stages of the chondrogenic commitment is essential to drive chondrogenic differentiation to healthy hyaline cartilage and minimize hypertrophy. During chondrogenesis, the extracellular matrix continuously evolves, adapting to the tissue adhesive requirements at each stage. Here, we take advantage of previously developed nanopatterns, in which local surface adhesiveness can be precisely tuned, to investigate its effects on prechondrogenic condensation. Fluorescence live cell imaging, immunostaining, confocal microscopy and PCR analysis are used to follow the condensation process on the nanopatterns. Cell tracking parameters, condensate morphology, cell–cell interactions, mechanotransduction and chondrogenic commitment are evaluated in response to local surface adhesiveness. Results show that only condensates on the nanopatterns of high local surface adhesiveness are stable in culture and able to enter the chondrogenic pathway, thus highlighting the importance of controlling cell–substrate adhesion in the tissue engineering strategies for cartilage repair.
External and Genetic Conditions Determining Male Infertility
Authors: Kamiński Piotr , Baszyński Jędrzej , Jerzak Izabela , Kavanagh Brendan P. , Nowacka-Chiari Ewa , Polanin Mateusz , Szymański Marek , Woźniak Alina , Kozera Wojciech
Published: July 2020

We explain environmental and genetic factors determining male genetic conditions and infertility and evaluate the significance of environmental stressors in shaping defensive responses, which is used in the diagnosis and treatment of male infertility. This is done through the impact of external and internal stressors and their instability on sperm parameters and their contribution to immunogenetic disorders and hazardous DNA mutations. As chemical compounds and physical factors play an important role in the induction of immunogenetic disorders and affect the activity of enzymatic and non-enzymatic responses, causing oxidative stress, and leading to apoptosis, they downgrade semen quality. These factors are closely connected with male reproductive potential since genetic polymorphisms and mutations in chromosomes 7, X, and Y critically impact on spermatogenesis. Microdeletions in the Azoospermic Factor AZF region directly cause defective sperm production. Among mutations in chromosome 7, impairments in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator CFTR gene are destructive for fertility in cystic fibrosis, when spermatic ducts undergo complete obstruction. This problem was not previously analyzed in such a form. Alongside karyotype abnormalities AZF microdeletions are the reason of spermatogenic failure. Amongst AZF genes, the deleted in azoospermia DAZ gene family is reported as most frequently deleted AZF. Screening of AZF microdeletions is useful in explaining idiopathic cases of male infertility as well as in genetic consulting prior to assisted reproduction. Based on the current state of research we answer the following questions: (1) How do environmental stressors lessen the quality of sperm and reduce male fertility; (2) which chemical elements induce oxidative stress and immunogenetic changes in the male reproductive system; (3) how do polymorphisms correlate with changes in reproductive potential and pro-antioxidative mechanisms as markers of pathophysiological disturbances of the male reproductive condition; (4) how do environmental stressors of immunogenetic disorders accompany male infertility and responses; and (5) what is the distribution and prevalence of environmental and genetic risk factors.
Investigating the Effect of Biomaterials Such as Poly-(l-Lactic Acid) Particles on Collagen Synthesis In Vitro: Method Is Matter
Authors: Ray Subarna , Ta Hang T.
Published: July 2020

Poly-l-lactic acid (PLLA), a synthetic, biocompatible, biodegradable polymer, has been safely used in several clinical applications in recent decades. Typically, SculptraTM, the commercially injectable PLLA in the form of microparticles, has been used as facial volumizer in the treatment of lipoatrophy in HIV patients. It also has various applications in tissue engineering by improving cell proliferation and adhesion. Sculptra™ can be categorised as a stimulatory filler as it stimulates the synthesis and deposition of fibrous tissue and collagen. Collagen is one of the most significant components of the extracellular matrix and beneficial for the normal physiology. It is also the structural component of a human body. In most of the studies, the effect of Sculptra on collagen synthesis was investigated in vivo and the majority of the data were from clinical and histological reports. There is only one study reporting this effect in vitro using fibroblasts. Here, we investigated whether PLLA in the form of nanoparticles can provide the same effect on collagen synthesis in fibroblasts as Sculptra. We surprisingly found that there was no stimulation of collagen in fibroblasts alone, whereas the co-cultures of fibroblast and macrophage had shown collagen stimulation by PLLA nanoparticles. It is also confirmed that collagen synthesis was caused by fibroblasts but not macrophages. Although further study needs to be conducted to evaluate its mechanism, our findings showed that choosing an appropriate method is essential for investigating the effect of PLLA or other biomaterials on collagen synthesis by fibroblasts in vitro.
Use of Biomarkers in Ongoing Research Protocols on Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Canevelli Marco , Remoli Giulia , Bacigalupo Ilaria , Valletta Martina , Toccaceli Blasi Marco , Sciancalepore Francesco , Bruno Giuseppe , Cesari Matteo , Vanacore Nicola
Published: July 2020

The present study aimed to describe and discuss the state of the art of biomarker use in ongoing Alzheimer’s disease (AD) research. A review of 222 ongoing phase 1, 2, 3, and 4 protocols registered in the clinicaltrials.gov database was performed. All the trials (i) enrolling subjects with clinical disturbances and/or preclinical diagnoses falling within the AD continuum; and (ii) testing the efficacy and/or safety/tolerability of a therapeutic intervention, were analyzed. The use of biomarkers of amyloid deposition, tau pathology, and neurodegeneration among the eligibility criteria and/or study outcomes was assessed. Overall, 58.2% of ongoing interventional studies on AD adopt candidate biomarkers. They are mostly adopted by studies at the preliminary stages of the drug development process to explore the safety profile of novel therapies, and to provide evidence of target engagement and disease-modifying properties. The biologically supported selection of participants is mostly based on biomarkers of amyloid deposition, whereas the use of biomarkers as study outcomes mostly relies on markers of neurodegeneration. Biomarkers play an important role in the design and conduction of research protocols targeting AD. Nevertheless, their clinical validity, utility, and cost-effectiveness in the “real world” remain to be clarified.
Wearable Textile UHF-RFID Sensors: A Systematic Review
Authors: Luo Chengyang , Gil Ignacio , Fernández-García Raúl
Published: July 2020

Textile radio-frequency identification operating in ultra-high frequency (UHF-RFID) sensors based on different scenarios are becoming attractive with the forthcoming internet of things (IoT) era and aging society. Compared with conventional UHF-RFID sensors, textile UHF-RFID sensors offer the common textile features, light weight, washability and comfort. Due to the short time and low level of development, researches on the integration of textile UHF-RFID techniques and textile sensing techniques are not flourishing. This paper is motivated by this situation to identify the current research status. In this paper, we provide a systematic review of the fundamentals of textile UHF-RFID sensors techniques, materials, the brief history and the state-of-the-art of the scenario-based development through detailed summary and analysis on the achievements from the starting year of 2004 to the present time. Moreover, according to the analysis, we give a proposal of the future prospects in several aspects, including the new materials and manufacturing processes, machine learning technology, scenario-based applications and unavoidable reliability.
Effect of the Zn/Mg Ratio on Microstructures, Mechanical Properties and Corrosion Performances of Al-Zn-Mg Alloys
Authors: Jiang Keda , Lan Yanquan , Pan Qinglin , Deng Yunlai
Published: July 2020

The effect of the Zn/Mg ratio on microstructures, mechanical properties and corrosion performances of Al-Zn-Mg alloys was studied. Microstructures were characterized using the optical microscope (OM), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM). Tensile tests, intergranular corrosion (IGC) and stress corrosion cracking (SCC) tests were conducted to study the properties. Microstructures results indicated that with the decrease of the Zn/Mg ratio, the recrystallization proportion and the fraction of second phase decreased, while the size of η’ (MgZn2) phases in grain interior also significantly decreased. The number density of η’ phases in grain interior increased and grain boundary precipitates developed discontinuous distribution with the decrease of the Zn/Mg ratio. These microstructures contributed to the significant improvement of the strength and corrosion resistance. The tensile strength and yield strength increased by 34.1% and 47.4%, respectively, with the Zn/Mg ratio decreased from 11.4 to 6.1. Calculating results indicated that the enhancement of strength mainly contributed from the solid-solution strengthening, grain-boundary strengthening and precipitation strengthening. The intergranular corrosion degree was greatly relieved and the stress corrosion sensitivity index decreased from 0.031 to 0.007 with the Zn/Mg ratio decreased from 11.4 to 6.1.
Assessment of Impact of Aramid Fibre Addition on the Mechanical Properties of Selected Asphalt Mixtures
Authors: Wiśniewski Damian , Słowik Mieczysław , Kempa Jan , Lewandowska Agnieszka , Malinowska Joanna
Published: July 2020

Various additives to asphalt binders and asphalt mixtures improving their properties are being used more and more frequently in order to improve the durability of road pavements. Such additives include various types of fibres, including aramid fibres. Tests concerning the impact of aramid fibre addition on the properties of selected asphalt mixtures have been described herein. Two types of asphalt mixtures were assessed: high modulus asphalt concrete (HMAC) and stone mastic asphalt (SMA). The examined asphalt mixtures were assessed with regard to: resistance to rutting, resistance to water and frost as well as fatigue resistance. The conducted tests showed relatively small impact of aramid fibre addition on the improvement of some assessed properties of the analysed asphalt mixtures. The obtained results were also compared to results of the tests conducted by the other research team concerning the impact of aramid fibre addition on the properties of the other types of asphalt mixtures.
Fluidized Bed Jet Milling Process Optimized for Mass and Particle Size with a Fuzzy Logic Approach
Authors: Krzywanski Jaroslaw , Urbaniak Dariusz , Otwinowski Henryk , Wylecial Tomasz , Sosnowski Marcin
Published: July 2020

The milling process is a complex phenomenon dependent on various technological and material parameters. The development of a fluidized bed jet milling model is of high practical significance, since milling is utilized in many industries, and its complexity is still not sufficiently recognized. Therefore, this research aims to optimize fluidized bed jet milling with the use of fuzzy logic (FL) based approach as one of the primary artificial intelligence (AI) methods. The developed fuzzy logic model (FLMill) of the investigated process allows it to be described as a non-iterative procedure, over a wide range of operating conditions. Working air pressure, rotational speed of the classifier rotor, and time of conducting the test are considered as inputs, while mass and mean Sauter diameter of the product are defined as outputs. Several triangular and constant linguistic terms are used in the developed FLMill model, which was validated against the experimental data. The optimum working air pressure and the test’s conducting time are 500 kPa and 3000 s, respectively. The optimum rotational speed of the classifier is equal to 50 s−1, considering the mass of the grinding product, and 250 s−1 for the mean Sauter diameter of the product. Such operating parameters allow obtaining 243.3 g of grinding product with the mean Sauter diameter of 11 µm. The research proved that the use of fuzzy logic modeling as a computer-based technique of solving mechanical engineering problems allows effective optimization of the fluidized bed jet milling process.
A Micromechanical Fatigue Limit Stress Model of Fiber-Reinforced Ceramic-Matrix Composites under Stochastic Overloading Stress
Authors: Li Longbiao
Published: July 2020

Fatigue limit stress is a key design parameter for the structure fatigue design of composite materials. In this paper, a micromechanical fatigue limit stress model of fiber-reinforced ceramic-matrix composites (CMCs) subjected to stochastic overloading stress is developed. The fatigue limit stress of different carbon fiber-reinforced silicon carbide (C/SiC) composites (i.e., unidirectional (UD), cross-ply (CP), 2D, 2.5D, and 3D C/SiC) is predicted based on the micromechanical fatigue damage models and fatigue failure criterion. Under cyclic fatigue loading, the fatigue damage and fracture under stochastic overloading stress at different applied cycle numbers are characterized using two parameters of fatigue life decreasing rate and broken fiber fraction. The relationships between the fatigue life decreasing rate, stochastic overloading stress level and corresponding occurrence applied cycle number, and broken fiber fraction are analyzed. Under the same stochastic overloading stress level, the fatigue life decreasing rate increases with the occurrence applied cycle of stochastic overloading, and thus, is the highest for the cross-ply C/SiC composite and lowest for the 2.5D C/SiC composite. Among the UD, 2D, and 3D C/SiC composites, at the initial stage of cyclic fatigue loading, under the same stochastic overloading stress, the fatigue life decreasing rate of the 3D C/SiC is the highest; however, with the increasing applied cycle number, the fatigue life decreasing rate of the UD C/SiC composite is the highest. The broken fiber fraction increases when stochastic overloading stress occurs, and the difference of the broken fiber fraction between the fatigue limit stress and stochastic overloading stress level increases with the occurrence applied cycle.
Surface Characteristics of Milled and 3D Printed Denture Base Materials Following Polishing and Coating: An In-Vitro Study
Authors: Kraemer Fernandez Pablo , Unkovskiy Alexey , Benkendorff Viola , Klink Andrea , Spintzyk Sebastian
Published: July 2020

(1) Background: To date, no information on the polishability of milled and 3D-printed complete denture bases has been provided, which is relevant in terms of plaque accumulation. (2) Methods: three groups (n = 30) were manufactured using the cold-polymerization polymethilmethacrilate, milling (SM) and 3D printing (AM). 10 specimens of each group were left untreated (reference). 10 more specimens were pre-polished (intermediate polishing) and 10 final specimens were highgloss polished. An additional 20 specimens were 3D printed and coated with the liquid resin (coated), 10 of which were additionally polished (coated + polished). For each group Ra and Rz values, gloss value and REM images were obtained. (3). The “highgloss-polished” specimens showed statistically lower Ra and Rz values in the SM, followed by AM and conventional groups. In the AM group statistically lower surfaces roughness was revealed for highgloss-polished, “coated + polished”, and “coated” specimens, respectively. (4) Conclusions: The milled specimens demonstrated superiors surface characteristics than 3D printed and conventionally produced after polishing. The polished specimens demonstrated superior surface characteristics over coated specimens. However, the surface roughness by both polished and coated specimens was within the clinically relevant threshold of 0.2 µm.
A Mathematical Model for the Electrical Resistivity of Cement Paste at Early Ages Considering the Partially Saturated State
Authors: Tian Ye , Xu Xin , Ji Haodong , Tian Zushi , Jin Xianyu , Jin Nanguo , Yan Dongming , Tang Shengwen
Published: July 2020

For cementitious materials, electrical resistivity is often used in the study of the cement hydration process at early age, as one of the few indicators that can be continuously and non-destructively monitored. Variation characteristics of resistivity are widely reported to interact with the early-age performance of cement paste, such as hydration kinetics parameters and setting time. However, there is no reasonable mathematical model to predict the resistivity at early ages, especially within the first 24 h, due to significant changes in the porosity and degree of saturation. In this work, a mathematical model was developed by considering the partially saturated state and density change of C-S-H (calcium silicate hydrate). To verify the model, two experimental methods were chosen, including the non-contact electrical resistivity test and isothermal calorimetry test. The hydration heat and resistivity of cement paste with a water–cement ratio of 0.35 and 0.45 were continuously monitored for 3 days. In the resistivity test, embedded temperature sensors were used to monitor the internal temperature and temperature correction was treated carefully in order to obtain accurate data. The test results prove that the mathematical model can accurately predict electrical resistivity and describe the saturation state of early-age cement pastes under sealed curing.
Surface Hardening of Machine Parts Using Nitriding and TiN Coating Deposition in Glow Discharge
Authors: Metel Alexander , Grigoriev Sergey , Melnik Yury , Volosova Marina , Mustafaev Enver
Published: July 2020

Surface hardening of machine parts substantially improves their performance. The best results are obtained when combined hardening consists of surface nitriding and subsequent deposition of hard coatings. The nitriding of machine parts immersed in the plasma of glow coatings have been studied, and the study results are presented. Titanium atoms for coating synthesis are obtained via titanium evaporation in a hollow molybdenum anode of the discharge. Stable evaporation of titanium occurs only when the power density of electrons heating the liquid titanium does not exceed ~500 W/cm2. To start evaporation, it is only necessary to reduce the gas pressure to 0.02 Pa. To stop evaporation, it is enough to increase the gas pressure to 0.1 Pa. Fast argon and nitrogen atoms used for cleaning the machine parts, heating them, and bombarding the growing coating are obtained using a grid composed of plane-parallel plates under high negative voltage and immersed in plasma.
Networks of Uniform Splicing Processors: Computational Power and Simulation
Authors: Gómez-Canaval Sandra , Mitrana Victor , Păun Mihaela , Sanchez Martín José , Sánchez Couso José
Published: July 2020

We investigated the computational power of a new variant of network of splicing processors, which simplifies the general model such that filters remain associated with nodes but the input and output filters of every node coincide. This variant, called network of uniform splicing processors, might be implemented more easily. Although the communication in the new variant seems less powerful, the new variant is sufficiently powerful to be computationally complete. Thus, nondeterministic Turing machines were simulated by networks of uniform splicing processors whose size depends linearly on the alphabet of the Turing machine. Furthermore, the simulation was time efficient. We argue that the network size can be decreased to a constant, namely six nodes. We further show that networks with only two nodes are able to simulate 2-tag systems. After these theoretical results, we discuss a possible software implementation of this model by proposing a conceptual architecture and describe all its components.
Seaweed Phenolics: From Extraction to Applications
Authors: Cotas João , Leandro Adriana , Monteiro Pedro , Pacheco Diana , Figueirinha Artur , Gonçalves Ana M. M. , da Silva Gabriela Jorge , Pereira Leonel
Published: July 2020

Seaweeds have attracted high interest in recent years due to their chemical and bioactive properties to find new molecules with valuable applications for humankind. Phenolic compounds are the group of metabolites with the most structural variation and the highest content in seaweeds. The most researched seaweed polyphenol class is the phlorotannins, which are specifically synthesized by brown seaweeds, but there are other polyphenolic compounds, such as bromophenols, flavonoids, phenolic terpenoids, and mycosporine-like amino acids. The compounds already discovered and characterized demonstrate a full range of bioactivities and potential future applications in various industrial sectors. This review focuses on the extraction, purification, and future applications of seaweed phenolic compounds based on the bioactive properties described in the literature. It also intends to provide a comprehensive insight into the phenolic compounds in seaweed.
De novo Transcriptome of the Non-saxitoxin Producing Alexandrium tamutum Reveals New Insights on Harmful Dinoflagellates
Authors: Vingiani Giorgio Maria , Štālberga Dārta , De Luca Pasquale , Ianora Adrianna , De Luca Daniele , Lauritano Chiara
Published: July 2020

Many dinoflagellates species, especially of the Alexandrium genus, produce a series of toxins with tremendous impacts on human and environmental health, and tourism economies. Alexandrium tamutum was discovered for the first time in the Gulf of Naples, and it is not known to produce saxitoxins. However, a clone of A. tamutum from the same Gulf showed copepod reproduction impairment and antiproliferative activity. In this study, the full transcriptome of the dinoflagellate A. tamutum is presented in both control and phosphate starvation conditions. RNA-seq approach was used for in silico identification of transcripts that can be involved in the synthesis of toxic compounds. Phosphate starvation was selected because it is known to induce toxin production for other Alexandrium spp. Results showed the presence of three transcripts related to saxitoxin synthesis (sxtA, sxtG and sxtU), and others potentially related to the synthesis of additional toxic compounds (e.g., 44 transcripts annotated as “polyketide synthase”). These data suggest that even if this A. tamutum clone does not produce saxitoxins, it has the potential to produce toxic metabolites, in line with the previously observed activity. These data give new insights into toxic microalgae, toxin production and their potential applications for the treatment of human pathologies.
Effect of Pass Strain on the Microstructure, Texture and Mechanical Properties of AZ31 Magnesium Alloy Fabricated by High Strain Rate Multiple Forging
Authors: Wu Yuanzhi , Deng Bin , Ye Tuo , Liu Wei , Nie Zhicheng , Zhang Xin
Published: July 2020

High strain rate multiple forging (HSRMF) with pass strain ranging from 0.1 to 0.35 was carried out on the AZ31 magnesium alloy, and the microstructure, texture and mechanical properties were examined. The initial grain can be refined through the formation of high density {102} and {101(-)1}-{101(-)2} twins and subsequently twining induced dynamic recrystallization (DRX). The grain refinement of the HSRMFed alloy was affected by the lamellar thickness of the twin. Lower pass strain (Δε = 0.1) during HSRMF leads to the thick twin lamellae and consequently results in coarse DRX grain, meanwhile, an incomplete DRX occurs. While the twin lamellae thickness decreases with increasing pass strain, and a saturate thickness can be achieved with higher pass strain (Δε = 0.16–0.35), which results in the finer DRX structure. Homogeneous DXR structure can be obtained only at a proper accumulated strain (∑Δε = 0.96–1.4) during HSRMF, under lower accumulated strain, the DRX is insufficient, while higher accumulated strain leads to abnormal grain growth. A double peak basal texture was achieved at lower pass strain (Δε = 0.1), which developed into titled basal texture, and the texture intensity increases with the pass strain. HSRMFed alloys with homogeneous fine DRX grain and relatively weak texture show high strength and excellent ductility, therefore, and it is inferred that the optimum pass strain and accumulated strain range are 0.16–0.35 and 0.96–1.4 respectively.
Encapsulation of Low-Molecular-Weight Drugs into Polymer Multilayer Capsules Templated on Vaterite CaCO3 Crystals
Authors: Campbell Jack , Kastania Georgia , Volodkin Dmitry
Published: July 2020

Polyelectrolyte multilayer capsules (PEMCs) templated onto biocompatible and easily degradable vaterite CaCO3 crystals via the layer-by-layer (LbL) polymer deposition process have served as multifunctional and tailor-made vehicles for advanced drug delivery. Since the last two decades, the PEMCs were utilized for effective encapsulation and controlled release of bioactive macromolecules (proteins, nucleic acids, etc.). However, their capacity to host low-molecular-weight (LMW) drugs (<1–2 kDa) has been demonstrated rather recently due to a limited retention ability of multilayers to small molecules. The safe and controlled delivery of LMW drugs plays a vital role for the treatment of cancers and other diseases, and, due to their tunable and inherent properties, PEMCs have shown to be good candidates for smart drug delivery. Herein, we summarize recent progress on the encapsulation of LMW drugs into PEMCs templated onto vaterite CaCO3 crystals. The drug loading and release mechanisms, advantages and limitations of the PEMCs as LMW drug carriers, as well as bio-applications of drug-laden capsules are discussed based upon the recent literature findings.
Diamond Deposition on Iron and Steel Substrates: A Review
Authors: Li Xiaoju , He Lianlong , Li Yuanshi , Yang Qiaoqin
Published: July 2020

This article presents an overview of the research in chemical vapor deposition (CVD) diamond films on steel substrates. Since the steels are the most commonly used and cost-effective structural materials in modern industry, CVD coating diamond films on steel substrates are extremely important, combining the unique surface properties of diamond with the superior toughness and strength of the core steel substrates, and will open up many new applications in the industry. However, CVD diamond deposition on steel substrates continues to be a persistent problem. We go through the most relevant results of the last two and a half decades, including recent advances in our group. This review discusses the essential reason of the thick catalytic graphite interlayer formed on steel substrates before diamond deposition. The high carbon diffusion in iron would induce severe internal carburization, and then voluminous graphite precipitated from the substrate. In order to hinder the catalytic graphite formation, various methods have been applied for the adherent diamond film deposition, such as pre-imposed various interlayers or multi-interlayers, special controls of the deposition process, the approaches of substrate alloying and so on. We found that adherent diamond films can be directly deposited on Al alloying steel substrates, and then the role of Al alloying element was examined. That is a thin dense amorphous alumina sublayer in situ formed on the alloying substrate, which played a critical role in preventing the formation of graphite phase and consequently enhancing diamond growth and adhesion. The mechanism of Al alloying suggests that the way used to improve hot corrosion resistance is also applicable. Then, some of the hot corrosion resistance methods, such as aluminizing, siliconizing, and so on, which have been used by some researchers examining CVD diamond films on steel substrates, are reviewed. Another way is to prepare diamond-like carbon (DLC) films on steel substrates at low temperature, and then the precipitated graphite from the internal carburization can be effectively avoided. In addition, based on some new findings, the understanding of the diamond nucleation and metastable growth is discussed.
Correction: Ha, Y. et al. Hemispherical Microelectrode Array for Ex Vivo Retinal Neural Recording. Micromachines 2020, 11, 538
Authors: Ha Yoonhee , Yoo Hyun-Ji , Shin Soowon , Jun Sang Beom
Published: July 2020

The authors would like to make the following changes to the published paper [...]
Low Albumin Levels Are Associated with Poorer Outcomes in a Case Series of COVID-19 Patients in Spain: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: de la Rica Roberto , Borges Marcio , Aranda Maria , del Castillo Alberto , Socias Antonia , Payeras Antoni , Rialp Gemma , Socias Lorenzo , Masmiquel Lluis , Gonzalez-Freire Marta
Published: July 2020

There is limited information available describing the clinical and epidemiological features of Spanish patients requiring hospitalization for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). In this observational study, we aimed to describe the clinical characteristics and epidemiological features of severe (non-ICU) and critically patients (ICU) with COVID-19 at triage, prior to hospitalization. Forty-eight patients (27 non-ICU and 21 ICU) with positive severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection were analyzed (mean age, 66 years, [range, 33–88 years]; 67% males). There were no differences in age or sex among groups. Initial symptoms included fever (100%), coughing (85%), dyspnea (76%), diarrhea (42%) and asthenia (21%). ICU patients had a higher prevalence of dyspnea compared to non-ICU patients (95% vs. 61%, p = 0.022). ICU-patients had lymphopenia as well as hypoalbuminemia. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), C-reactive protein (CRP), and procalcitonin were significantly higher in ICU patients compared to non-ICU (p < 0.001). Lower albumin levels were associated with poor prognosis measured as longer hospital length (r = −0.472, p < 0.001) and mortality (r = −0.424, p = 0.003). As of 28 April 2020, 10 patients (8 ICU and 2 non-ICU) have died (21% mortality), and while 100% of the non-ICU patients have been discharged, 33% of the ICU patients still remained hospitalized (5 in ICU and 2 had been transferred to ward). Critically ill patients with COVID-19 present lymphopenia, hypoalbuminemia and high levels of inflammation.
Distribution and Control of Bacterial Community Composition in Marian Cove Surface Waters, King George Island, Antarctica during the Summer of 2018
Authors: Kim Soyeon , Kim Ju-Hyoung , Lim Jae-Hyun , Jeong Jin-Hyun , Heo Jang-Mu , Kim Il-Nam
Published: July 2020

Marian Cove is experiencing some of the most rapid environmental changes in the Antarctic region; however, little is known about the response of bacterial communities to these changes. The main purpose of this study was to investigate the spatial variation of physical–biogeochemical–bacterial community features in the Marian Cove surface waters and the environmental parameters governing the spatial variation in the bacterial community composition during the summer of 2018. The Marian Cove surface waters are largely composed of two different characteristics of water masses: relatively low-temperature, -salinity, and -nutrient surface glacier water (named SGW) and relatively high-temperature, -salinity, and -nutrient surface Maxwell Bay water (named SMBW). The SGW bacterial communities were dominated by unclassified Cryomorphaceae, Sedimenticola, and Salibacter genera, while the SMBW bacterial communities were dominated by Sulfitobacter, Arcobacter, and Odoribacter genera. Spatial variations in bacterial community composition were mainly attributed to physical and biogeochemical characteristics, suggesting that the bacterial community composition of the Marian Cove surface waters is mainly determined by environmental characteristics. These findings provide a foundation to improve the understanding of bacterial community variations in response to a rapidly changing Marian Cove in the Antarctic.
Evolution of Fracture Aperture in Quartz Sandstone under Hydrothermal Conditions: Mechanical and Chemical Effects
Authors: Cheng Chaojie , Milsch Harald
Published: July 2020

Fractures efficiently affect fluid flow in geological formations, and thereby determine mass and energy transport in reservoirs, which are not least exploited for economic resources. In this context, their response to mechanical and thermal changes, as well as fluid–rock interactions, is of paramount importance. In this study, a two-stage flow-through experiment was conducted on a pure quartz sandstone core of low matrix permeability, containing one single macroscopic tensile fracture. In the first short-term stage, the effects of mechanical and hydraulic aperture on pressure and temperature cycles were investigated. The purpose of the subsequent intermittent-flow long-term (140 days) stage was to constrain the evolution of the geometrical and hydraulic fracture properties resulting from pressure solution. Deionized water was used as the pore fluid, and permeability, as well as the effluent Si concentrations, were systematically measured. Overall, hydraulic aperture was shown to be significantly less affected by pressure, temperature and time, in comparison to mechanical aperture. During the long-term part of the experiment at 140 °C, the effluent Si concentrations likely reached a chemical equilibrium state within less than 8 days of stagnant flow, and exceeded the corresponding hydrostatic quartz solubility at this temperature. This implies that the pressure solution was active at the contacting fracture asperities, both at 140 °C and after cooling to 33 °C. The higher temperature yielded a higher dissolution rate and, consequently, a faster attainment of chemical equilibrium within the contact fluid. X-ray µCT observations evidenced a noticeable increase in fracture contact area ratio, which, in combination with theoretical considerations, implies a significant decrease in mechanical aperture. In contrast, the sample permeability, and thus the hydraulic fracture aperture, virtually did not vary. In conclusion, pressure solution-induced fracture aperture changes are affected by the degree of time-dependent variations in pore fluid composition. In contrast to the present case of a quasi-closed system with mostly stagnant flow, in an open system with continuous once-through fluid flow, the activity of the pressure solution may be amplified due to the persistent fluid-chemical nonequilibrium state, thus possibly enhancing aperture and fracture permeability changes.
A Pilot Study of Multi-Input Recurrent Neural Networks for Drug-Kinase Binding Prediction
Authors: Carpenter Kristy , Pilozzi Alexander , Huang Xudong
Published: July 2020

The use of virtual drug screening can be beneficial to research teams, enabling them to narrow down potentially useful compounds for further study. A variety of virtual screening methods have been developed, typically with machine learning classifiers at the center of their design. In the present study, we created a virtual screener for protein kinase inhibitors. Experimental compound–target interaction data were obtained from the IDG-DREAM Drug-Kinase Binding Prediction Challenge. These data were converted and fed as inputs into two multi-input recurrent neural networks (RNNs). The first network utilized data encoded in one-hot representation, while the other incorporated embedding layers. The models were developed in Python, and were designed to output the IC50 of the target compounds. The performance of the models was assessed primarily through analysis of the Q2 values produced from runs of differing sample and epoch size; recorded loss values were also reported and graphed. The performance of the models was limited, though multiple changes are proposed for potential improvement of a multi-input recurrent neural network-based screening tool.
Advances in Laser Ablation Synthesized Silicon-Based Nanomaterials for the Prevention of Bacterial Infection
Authors: Martínez-Carmona Marina , Vallet-Regí María
Published: July 2020

Nanomaterials have unique properties and characteristics derived from their shape and small size that are not present in bulk materials. If size and shape are decisive, the synthesis method used, which determines the above parameters, is equally important. Among the different nanomaterial’s synthesis methods, we can find chemical methods (microemulsion, sol-gel, hydrothermal treatments, etc.), physical methods (evaporation-condensation, laser treatment, etc.) and biosynthesis. Among all of them, the use of laser ablation that allows obtaining non-toxic nanomaterials (absence of foreign compounds) with a controlled 3D size, has emerged in recent years as a simple and versatile alternative for the synthesis of a wide variety of nanomaterials with numerous applications. This manuscript reviews the latest advances in the use of laser ablation for the synthesis of silicon-based nanomaterials, highlighting its usefulness in the prevention of bacterial infection.
Synthesis of Radioluminescent CaF2:Ln Core, Mesoporous Silica Shell Nanoparticles for Use in X-ray Based Theranostics
Authors: Winter Hayden , Neufeld Megan J. , Makotamo Lydia , Sun Conroy , Goforth Andrea M.
Published: July 2020

X-ray radiotherapy is a common method of treating cancerous tumors or other malignant lesions. The side effects of this treatment, however, can be deleterious to patient quality of life if critical tissues are affected. To potentially lower the effective doses of radiation and negative side-effects, new classes of nanoparticles are being developed to enhance reactive oxygen species production during irradiation. This report presents the synthesis and radiotherapeutic efficacy evaluation of a new nanoparticle formulation designed for this purpose, composed of a CaF2 core, mesoporous silica shell, and polyethylene glycol coating. The construct was additionally doped with Tb and Eu during the CaF2 core synthesis to prepare nanoparticles (NPs) with X-ray luminescent properties for potential application in fluorescence imaging. The mesoporous silica shell was added to provide the opportunity for small molecule loading, and the polyethylene glycol coating was added to impart aqueous solubility and biocompatibility. The potential of these nanomaterials to act as radiosensitizers for enhancing X-ray radiotherapy was supported by reactive oxygen species generation assays. Further, in vitro experiments indicate biocompatibility and enhanced cellular damage during X-ray radiotherapy.
Tuning the Nature of N-Based Groups From N-Containing Reduced Graphene Oxide: Enhanced Thermal Stability Using Post-Synthesis Treatments
Authors: Sandoval Stefania , Tobias Gerard
Published: July 2020

The synthesis of N-containing graphene derivatives by functionalization and doping of graphene oxide (GO) has been widely reported as an alternative to tune both their chemical and physical properties. These materials are of interest for a wide range of applications, including biomedicine, sensors, energy, and catalysis, to name some. Understanding the role of the nature, reactivity, concentration, and distribution of the N-based species, would pave the way towards the design of synthetic routes to obtain improved materials for specific applications. The N-groups can be present either as aliphatic fractions (amides and amines) or becoming part of the planar conjugated lattice (N-doping). Here, we have modified the distribution of N-based moieties present in N-containing RGO samples (prepared by ammonolysis of GO) and evaluated the role of the concentration and nature of the species in the thermal stability of the materials once thermally annealed (500–1050 °C) under inert environments. After these post-synthesis treatments, samples underwent marked structural modifications that include the elimination and/or transformation of N-containing fractions, which might account for the observed enhanced thermal stability. It is remarkable the formation of pyridinic N-oxide species, which role in the properties of N-containing graphene derivatives has been barely reported. The presence of this fraction is found to confer an enhanced thermal stability to the material.
Correction: Oves M, et al. Graphene Decorated Zinc Oxide and Curcumin to Disinfect the Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Nanomaterials 2020, 10(5), 1004
Authors: Oves Mohammad , Rauf Mohd. Ahmar , Ansari Mohammad Omaish , Khan Aftab Aslam Parwaz , Qari Huda A. , Alajmi Mohamed F. , Sau Samaresh , Iyer Arun K.
Published: July 2020

The authors wish to make the following corrections to this paper [...]
Modulation of the Gut Microbiota by Olive Oil Phenolic Compounds: Implications for Lipid Metabolism, Immune System, and Obesity
Authors: Farràs Marta , Martinez-Gili Laura , Portune Kevin , Arranz Sara , Frost Gary , Tondo Mireia , Blanco-Vaca Francisco
Published: July 2020

There is extensive information of the beneficial effects of virgin olive oil (VOO), especially on cardiovascular diseases. Some VOO healthy properties have been attributed to their phenolic-compounds (PCs). The aim of this review is to present updated data on the effects of olive oil (OO) PCs on the gut microbiota, lipid metabolism, immune system, and obesity, as well as on the crosstalk among them. We summarize experiments and clinical trials which assessed the specific effects of the olive oil phenolic-compounds (OOPCs) without the synergy with OO-fats. Several studies have demonstrated that OOPC consumption increases Bacteroidetes and/or reduces the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio, which have both been related to atheroprotection. OOPCs also increase certain beneficial bacteria and gut-bacteria diversity which can be therapeutic for lipid-immune disorders and obesity. Furthermore, some of the mechanisms implicated in the crosstalk between OOPCs and these disorders include antimicrobial-activity, cholesterol microbial metabolism, and metabolites produced by bacteria. Specifically, OOPCs modulate short-chain fatty-acids produced by gut-microbiota, which can affect cholesterol metabolism and the immune system, and may play a role in weight gain through promoting satiety. Since data in humans are scarce, there is a necessity for more clinical trials designed to assess the specific role of the OOPCs in this crosstalk.