bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Paleoproterozoic Adakitic Rocks in Qingchengzi District, Northeastern Jiao-Liao-Ji Belt: Implications for Petrogenesis and Tectonism
Authors: Li Jian , Liu Hanlun , Wang Keyong , Cai Wenyan
Published: August 2020

Herein, zircon U-Pb geochronology, Lu-Hf isotopes, and whole-rock major and trace element geochemistry are presented for two Palaeoproterozoic granitic rocks in Qingchengzi district, northeastern Jiao-Liao-Ji Belt (JLJB). These new geochronological and geochemical data provide reference clues for exploring the petrogenesis and tectonic setting of Paleoproterozoic magmatic rocks in the Qingchengzi district, which further constrain the tectonic nature of the JLJB. Our zircon U-Pb dating denotes that the Paleoproterozoic magmatic events in the Qingchengzi district were emplaced at ~2163 Ma and ~1854 Ma, represented by granite porphyry and biotite granite, respectively. Geochemically, these Palaeoproterozoic rocks are characterized by high Sr (760–842 ppm), SiO2 (69.72–70.89 wt.%), and Al2O3 (15.53–16.78 wt.%) contents, low Y (2.1–9.0 ppm) and Yb (0.25–0.80 ppm) contents, which indicate an adakite affinity. Combined with Hf isotopic composition (εHf(t) = −1.5~+4.8; TDM2 = 3109~2560 Ma), we believe that the Paleoproterozoic adakitic magma originated from partial melting of the thickened lower crust material in the Meso-Neoarchean. Moreover, these rocks are enriched in light rare earth elements and large ion lithophilic elements (e.g., K, Rb, and Cs), and depleted in heavy rare earth elements and high field strength elements (e.g., Nb and Ta). These features are similar to magmatic rocks formed in an arc environment (either island arc or active continental margin) and are not consistent with an intraplate/intracontinental environment. According to this study and previous research results, we conclude that the arc–continent collision model is conducive to the Paleoproterozoic tectonic attribute of the JLJB, and the oceanic crust subduction between the Namgrim and Longgang blocks may have induced the widespread occurrence of magmatic events in the region.
The Emerging Role of Cold Atmospheric Plasma in Implantology: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Hui Wang Lai , Perrotti Vittoria , Iaculli Flavia , Piattelli Adriano , Quaranta Alessandro
Published: August 2020

In recent years, cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) technologies have received increasing attention in the field of biomedical applications. The aim of this article is to review the currently available literature to provide an overview of the scientific principles of CAP application, its features, functions, and its applications in systemic and oral diseases, with a specific focus on its potential in implantology. In this narrative review, PubMed, Medline, and Scopus databases were searched using key words like “cold atmospheric plasma”, “argon plasma”, “helium plasma”, “air plasma”, “dental implants”, “implantology”, “peri-implantitis”, “decontamination”. In vitro studies demonstrated CAP’s potential to enhance surface colonization and osteoblast activity and to accelerate mineralization, as well as to determine a clean surface with cell growth comparable to the sterile control on both titanium and zirconia surfaces. The effect of CAP on biofilm removal was revealed in comparative studies to the currently available decontamination modalities (laser, air abrasion, and chlorhexidine). The combination of mechanical treatments and CAP resulted in synergistic antimicrobial effects and surface improvement, indicating that it may play a central role in surface “rejuvenation” and offer a novel approach for the treatment of peri-implantitis. It is noteworthy that the CAP conditioning of implant surfaces leads to an improvement in osseointegration in in vivo animal studies. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first review of the literature providing a summary of the current state of the art of this emerging field in implantology and it could represent a point of reference for basic researchers and clinicians interested in approaching and testing new technologies.
Multi-Channel Exploration of O Adatom on TiO2(110) Surface by Scanning Probe Microscopy
Authors: Wen Huan Fei , Sugawara Yasuhiro , Li Yan Jun
Published: August 2020

We studied the O2 dissociated state under the different O2 exposed temperatures with atomic resolution by scanning probe microscopy (SPM) and imaged the O adatom by simultaneous atomic force microscopy (AFM)/scanning tunneling microscopy (STM). The effect of AFM operation mode on O adatom contrast was investigated, and the interaction of O adatom and the subsurface defect was observed by AFM/STM. Multi-channel exploration was performed to investigate the charge transfer between the adsorbed O and the TiO2(110) by obtaining the frequency shift, tunneling current and local contact potential difference at an atomic scale. The tunneling current image showed the difference of the tunneling possibility on the single O adatom and paired O adatoms, and the local contact potential difference distribution of the O-TiO2(110) surface institutively revealed the charge transfer from TiO2(110) surface to O adatom. The experimental results are expected to be helpful in investigating surface/interface properties by SPM.
Facile Fabrication of a Superhydrophobic Surface with Robust Micro-/Nanoscale Hierarchical Structures on Titanium Substrate
Authors: Dong Shuliang , Wang Zhenlong , An Libao , Li Yaogang , Wang Baozhong , Ji Hongchao , Wang Han
Published: August 2020

A superhydrophobic surface with robust structures on a metallic surface could improve its application in various harsh conditions. Herein, we developed a new strategy to fabricate robust micro-/nanoscale hierarchical structures with electrical discharge machining and electrochemical etching on a titanium substrate. After modification by fluorinated silane, the static water contact angle and slide angle of the surface could reach 162 ± 2° and 4 ± 1°, respectively. The superhydrophobic surfaces showed good corrosion resistance and mechanical stability after scratching with sandpapers. In addition, the superhydrophobic surfaces had good self-cleaning performance even in an acidic environment as well as the potential to be used as guiding tracks in droplet microfluidics and lab-on-a-chip systems. These results are expected to be helpful in designing the surface of liquid float gyroscope parts.
A Versatile and Ultrasensitive Electrochemical Sensing Platform for Detection of Chlorpromazine Based on Nitrogen-Doped Carbon Dots/Cuprous Oxide Composite
Authors: Palakollu Venkata Narayana , Karpoormath Rajshekhar , Wang Lei , Tang Jiao-Ning , Liu Chen
Published: August 2020

The excessive intake of chlorpromazine (CPZ) adversely affects human health profoundly, leading to a series of severe diseases such as hepatomegaly and dyskinesia. The rapid and precise detection of CPZ in real samples is of great significance for its effective surveillance. Herein, a versatile and sensitive electrochemical sensor was developed for the detection of antipsychotic drug CPZ based on a Nafion (Nf)-supported nitrogen-doped carbon dots/cuprous oxide (N-CDs/Cu2O) composite. The as-synthesized N-CDs/Cu2O composite was systematically characterized using various physicochemical techniques. The developed composite-based sensor displayed excellent performance towards CPZ determination in a dynamic linear range of 0.001–230 µM with the detection limit of 25 nM. Remarkably, the developed sensor displayed good performance in terms of sensitivity and selectivity. Furthermore, good anti-interference properties toward CPZ determination were attained despite the presence of highly concentrated interfering compounds. Therefore, this composite could be a notable potential modifier to enhance electrocatalytic activity onto the surface of the electrode. Finally, N-CDs/Cu2O/Nf-based sensor was effectively applied for quantification of CPZ in human urine and pharmaceutical formulation samples.
One Step Synthesis of Tetragonal-CuBi2O4/Amorphous-BiFeO3 Heterojunction with Improved Charge Separation and Enhanced Photocatalytic Properties
Authors: Cai Fang , Zhang Ting , Liu Qiong , Guo Pengran , Lei Yongqian , Wang Yi , Wang Fuxian
Published: August 2020

Tetragonal CuBi2O4/amorphous BiFeO3 (T-CBO/A-BFO) composites are prepared via a one-step solvothermal method at mild conditions. The T-CBO/A-BFO composites show expanded visible light absorption, suppressed charge recombination, and consequently improved photocatalytic activity than T-CBO or A-BFO alone. The T-CBO/A-BFO with an optimal T-CBO to A-BFO ratio of 1:1 demonstrates the lowest photoluminescence signal and highest photocatalytic activity. It shows a removal rate of 78.3% for the photodegradation of methylene orange under visible light irradiation for 1 h. XPS test after the cycle test revealed the reduction of Bi3+ during the photocatalytic reaction. Moreover, the as prepared T-CBO/A-BFO show fundamentally higher photocatalytic activity than their calcinated counterparts. The one-step synthesis is completed within 30 min and does not require post annealing process, which may be easily applied for the fast and cost-effective preparation of photoactive metal oxide heterojunctions.
Catalytic Preparation of Carbon Nanotubes from Waste Polyethylene Using FeNi Bimetallic Nanocatalyst
Authors: Li Kezhuo , Zhang Haijun , Zheng Yangfan , Yuan Gaoqian , Jia Quanli , Zhang Shaowei
Published: August 2020

In this work, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were synthesized by catalytic pyrolysis from waste polyethylene in Ar using an in-situ catalyst derived from ferric nitrate and nickel nitrate precursors. The influence factors (such as temperature, catalyst content and Fe/Ni molar ratio) on the formation of CNTs were investigated. The results showed that with the temperature increasing from 773 to 1073 K, the carbon yield gradually increased whereas the aspect (length-diameter) ratio of CNTs initially increased and then decreased. The optimal growth temperature of CNTs was 973 K. With increasing the Fe/Ni molar ratio in an FeNi bimetallic catalyst, the yield of CNTs gradually increased, whereas their aspect ratio first increased and then decreased. The optimal usage of the catalyst precursor (Fe/Ni molar ratio was 5:5) was 0.50 wt% with respect to the mass of polyethylene. In this case, the yield of CNTs reached as high as 20 wt%, and their diameter and length were respectively 20–30 nm, and a few tens of micrometers. The simple low-cost method developed in this work could be used to address the environmental concerns about plastic waste, and synthesize high value-added CNTs for a range of future applications.
Plasma Metabolites Related to Peripheral and Hepatic Insulin Sensitivity Are Not Directly Linked to Gut Microbiota Composition
Authors: Koopen Annefleur M. , de Clercq Nicolien C. , Warmbrunn Moritz V. , Herrema Hilde , Davids Mark , de Groot Pieter F. , Kootte Ruud S. , Bouter Kristien E. C. , Nieuwdorp Max , Groen Albert K. , Prodan Andrei
Published: August 2020

Plasma metabolites affect a range of metabolic functions in humans, including insulin sensitivity (IS). A subset of these plasma metabolites is modified by the gut microbiota. To identify potential microbial–metabolite pathways involved in IS, we investigated the link between plasma metabolites, gut microbiota composition, and IS, using the gold-standard for peripheral and hepatic IS measurement in a group of participants with metabolic syndrome (MetSyn). In a cross-sectional study with 115 MetSyn participants, fasting plasma samples were collected for untargeted metabolomics analysis and fecal samples for 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. A two-step hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp was performed to assess peripheral and hepatic IS. Collected data were integrated and potential interdependence between metabolites, gut microbiota, and IS was analyzed using machine learning prediction models. Plasma metabolites explained 13.2% and 16.7% of variance in peripheral and hepatic IS, respectively. Fecal microbiota composition explained 4.2% of variance in peripheral IS and was not related to hepatic IS. Although metabolites could partially explain the variances in IS, the top metabolites related to peripheral and hepatic IS did not significantly correlate with gut microbiota composition (both on taxonomical level and alpha-diversity). However, all plasma metabolites could explain 18.5% of the variance in microbial alpha-diversity (Shannon); the top 20 metabolites could even explain 44.5% of gut microbial alpha-diversity. In conclusion, plasma metabolites could partially explain the variance in peripheral and hepatic IS; however, these metabolites were not directly linked to the gut microbiota composition, underscoring the intricate relation between plasma metabolites, the gut microbiota, and IS in MetSyn
Association between Biomarkers of Cardiovascular Diseases and the Blood Concentration of Carotenoids among the General Population without Apparent Illness
Authors: Matsumoto Mai , Waki Naoko , Suganuma Hiroyuki , Takahashi Ippei , Kurauchi Sizuka , Sawada Kahori , Tokuda Itoyo , Misawa Mina , Ando Masataka , Itoh Ken , Ihara Kazushige , Nakaji Shigeyuki
Published: August 2020

Several studies have demonstrated that carotenoid-rich vegetables are useful against cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). However, it is still unclear when a healthy population should start eating these vegetables to prevent CVDs. In this study, we evaluated the role of carotenoids in CVD markers in healthy subjects using age-stratified analysis. We selected 1350 subjects with no history of apparent illness who were undergoing health examinations. We then evaluated the relationship between the serum concentrations of six major carotenoids as well as their total, and nine CVD markers (i.e., body mass index (BMI), pulse wave velocity (PWV), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR), blood insulin, fasting blood glucose (FBG), triglycerides (TGs), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol) using multiple regression analysis. It was found that the total carotenoid level was significantly associated with seven markers other than BMI and FBG in males and with eight markers other than DBP in females. Many of these relationships were independent of lifestyle habits. Many significant relationships were found in young males (aged 20–39) and middle-aged females (aged 40–59). These findings can be used as lifestyle guidance for disease prevention although the causal relationships should be confirmed.
How 25(OH)D Levels during Pregnancy Affect Prevalence of Autism in Children: Systematic Review
Authors: Uçar Nazlı , Grant William B. , Peraita-Costa Isabel , Morales Suárez-Varela María
Published: August 2020

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a group of dysfunctions in social interaction, communication, and behaviors. The etiology of ASD is not yet fully understood; however, it consists of the interaction between genetics and the environment. An increasing amount of evidence points to the possibility that gestational and early-childhood vitamin D deficiency may be involved in the etiology of some cases of ASD. Herein, we systematically review the literature for studies on vitamin D status during pregnancy and ASD outcomes. Forty-three studies in the PubMed and 124 studies in EMBASE databases were initially found. After screening, 26 were identified as candidate studies for inclusion. Finally, 14 articles met the inclusion criteria, which originated from nine countries. The studies included 10 original research studies and four review studies conducted between 2012 and 2020. The strength of evidence that vitamin D levels during pregnancy increase the risk of developing autism is very low. This is because the evidence relies exclusively on observational studies that did not equally consider all important confounders and that assessed the indirect relationship between vitamin D as a surrogate for sunlight exposure and autism risk. The findings of this systematic review are consistent with the hypothesis that low vitamin D levels might contribute to the development of autism. However, we must also recognize the possible confusion bias and therefore experimental studies with very large sample sizes, given incidence of autism, that allow us to detect blood levels in pregnant women would be helpful to clarify this point.
Biofilm-Formation in Clonally Unrelated Multidrug-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii Isolates
Authors: Alamri Aisha M. , Alsultan Afnan A. , Ansari Mohammad A. , Alnimr Amani M.
Published: August 2020

This study analyzed the genotype, antibiotic resistance, and biofilm formation of Acinetobacter baumannii strains and assessed the correlation between biofilm formation, antibiotic resistance, and biofilm-related risk factors. A total of 207 non-replicate multi-drug-resistant A. baumannii strains were prospectively isolated. Phenotypic identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing were carried out. Isolate biofilm formation ability was evaluated using the tissue culture plate (TCP), Congo red agar, and tube methods. Clonal relatedness between the strains was assessed by enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus-PCR genotyping. Of the 207 isolates, 52.5% originated from an intensive care unit setting, and pan resistance was observed against ceftazidime and cefepime, with elevated resistance (99–94%) to piperacillin/tazobactam, imipenem, levofloxacin, and ciprofloxacin. alongside high susceptibility to tigecycline (97.8%). The Tissue culture plate, Tube method, and Congo red agar methods revealed that 53.6%, 20.8%, and 2.7% of the strains were strong biofilm producers, respectively, while a significant correlation was observed between biofilm formation and device-originating respiratory isolates (p = 0.0009) and between biofilm formation in colonized vs. true infection isolates (p = 0.0001). No correlation was detected between antibiotic resistance and biofilm formation capacity, and the majority of isolates were clonally unrelated. These findings highlight the urgent need for implementing strict infection control measures in clinical settings.
The Clinical Infection with Pigeon Circovirus (PiCV) Leads to Lymphocyte B Apoptosis But Has No Effect on Lymphocyte T Subpopulation
Authors: Stenzel Tomasz , Dziewulska Daria , Tykałowski Bartłomiej , Koncicki Andrzej
Published: August 2020

The pathology of pigeon circovirus (PiCV) is still unknown, but it is regarded as an immunosuppressant. This study aimed to find a correlation between PiCV natural infection and immunosuppression. The study was conducted with 56 pigeons divided into the following groups: PiCV-positive but showing (group S) or not (group I) non-specific clinical symptoms and asymptomatic pigeons negative for PiCV (group H). The percentage and apoptosis of T CD3+ and B IgM+ splenocytes; the expression of CD4, CD8, and IFN-γ genes in splenic mononuclear cells; the number of PiCV viral loads in the bursa of Fabricius; and the level of anti-PiCV antibodies were analyzed. The results showed that the percentage of B IgM+ cells was almost two-fold lower in group S than in group H, and that ca. 20% of the lymphocytes were apoptotic. No increased apoptosis was detected in TCD3+ subpopulation. The PiCV viral loads were approximately one thousand and ten thousand times higher in group S than in groups I and H, respectively. Our results indicate a possible correlation between the number of PiCV viral loads and severity of PiCV infection and confirm that PiCV infection leads to the suppression of humoral immunity by inducing B lymphocyte apoptosis.
Ducrosia spp., Rare Plants with Promising Phytochemical and Pharmacological Characteristics: An Updated Review
Authors: Mottaghipisheh Javad , Boveiri Dehsheikh Anahita , Mahmoodi Sourestani Mohammad , Kiss Tivadar , Hohmann Judit , Csupor Dezső
Published: August 2020

The rare genus Ducrosia (Apiaceae family) consists of six species, which are mainly native to Asia, specifically to Iran and Iraq. The aerial parts of D. anethifolia, as the most common species, have been traditionally consumed to relieve headache, backache and colic pain, and have also been used as an anxiolytic, an antidepressant, and for treating insomnia. The antispasmodic and carminative effects of D. assadii, and the analgesic activity of D. flabellifolia, along with the insecticidal activities and use as a remedy of skin infections of D. ismaelis, have been previously documented. Among the 49 non-volatile secondary metabolites identified from D. anethifolia and D. ismaelis, 17 linear furanocoumarins and 8 flavonoids have been characterized. The essential oil compositions of four species, including D. anethifolia, D. assadii, D. flabellifolia and D. ismaelis, have been analyzed, whereby aldehyde hydrocarbons, including decanal (10.1–74.0%) and dodecanal (7.2–33.41%), and α-pinene (4.0–70.3%), were identified as the main aroma constituents. From the species of the genus, the bioactivities of D. anethifolia, as well as D. ismaelis, D. assadii and D. flabellifolia, have been previously investigated. Except one clinical trial, all the pharmacological data are derived from preclinical tests, predominantly focusing on antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiproliferative and cytotoxic activities in vitro, and neuroprotective, antidiabetic and analgesic effects in vivo. Considering the vast ethnobotanical uses of the plants in Iranian folk medicine, the phytochemical and pharmacological analysis of un-investigated species might be promising. Furthermore, due to extensive consumption of the Ducrosia genus, more scientific data are needed to support the safety and efficacy of these plants.
Automated GMP-Compliant Production of [68Ga]Ga-DO3A-Tuna-2 for PET Microdosing Studies of the Glucagon Receptor in Humans
Authors: Wagner Michael , Doverfjord Johan G. , Tillner Joachim , Antoni Gunnar , Haack Torsten , Bossart Martin , Laitinen Iina , Johansson Lars , Pierrou Stefan , Eriksson Olof , Velikyan Irina
Published: August 2020

Introduction: [68Ga]Ga-DO3A-VS-Cys40-Tuna-2 (previously published as [68Ga]Ga-DO3A-VS-Cys40-S01-GCG) has shown high-affinity specific binding to the glucagon receptor (GCGR) in vitro and in vivo in rats and non-human primates in our previous studies, confirming the suitability of the tracer for drug development applications in humans. The manufacturing process of [68Ga]Ga-DO3A-VS-Cys40-Tuna-2 was automated for clinical use to meet the radiation safety and good manufacturing practice (GMP) requirements. Methods: The automated synthesis platform (Modular-Lab PharmTrace, Eckert & Ziegler, Eurotope, Germany), disposable cassettes for 68Ga-labeling, and pharmaceutical-grade 68Ge/68Ga generator (GalliaPharm®) used in the study were purchased from Eckert & Ziegler. The parameters such as time, temperature, precursor concentration, radical scavenger, buffer concentration, and pH, as well as product purification step, were investigated and optimized. Process optimization was conducted with regard to product quality and quantity, as well as process reproducibility. The active pharmaceutical ingredient starting material DO3A-VS-Cys40-Tuna-2 (GMP-grade) was provided by Sanofi Aventis. Results: The reproducible and GMP-compliant automated production of [68Ga]Ga-DO3A-VS-Cys40-Tuna-2 with on-line documentation was developed. The non-decay-corrected radiochemical yield was 45.2 ± 2.5% (n = 3, process validation) at the end of the synthesis with a labeling synthesis duration of 38 min and a quality controlincluding release procedure of 20 min. The radiochemical purity of the product was 98.9 ± 0.6% (n = 17) with the total amount of the peptide in the preparation of 48 ± 2 µg (n = 3, process validation). Radionuclidic purity, sterility, endotoxin content, residual solvent content, and sterile filter integrity tests met the acceptance criteria. The product was stable at ambient temperature for at least 2 h. Conclusion: The fully automated GMP-compliant manufacturing process was developed and thoroughly validated. The resulting [68Ga]Ga-DO3A-VS-Cys40-Tuna-2 was used in a clinical study for accurate quantification of GCGR occupancy by a dual anti-diabetic drug in vivo in humans.
Comment on López-Yerena et al. “Absorption and Intestinal Metabolic Profile of Oleocanthal in Rats” Pharmaceutics 2020, 12, 134
Authors: Kaddoumi Amal , Sayed Khalid El
Published: August 2020

This comment is intended to discuss errors observed in the title paper, doi:10.3390/pharmaceutics12020134. When this paper was published, the authors of this commentary were excited to read it. However, the more we read, the more pitfalls were observed, which necessitated a response to revise the many errors and misleading information included in this publication.
How a State Measures Up: Ambulatory Care Pharmacists’ Perception of Practice Management Systems for Comprehensive Medication Management in Utah
Authors: Turner Kyle , Abbinanti Alan , Winter Bradly , Berrett Benjamin , Olson Jeff , Cox Nicholas
Published: August 2020

Comprehensive medication management (CMM) is a patient-centered standard of care that ensures a patient’s medications are optimized. The CMM Practice Management Assessment Tool (PMAT) is a tool to assess areas of CMM practice management. The purpose of this project was to assess the state of CMM practice management based on clinical pharmacist perception for two health systems in the state of Utah, and to identify areas of excellence and/or improvement utilizing a novel method for PMAT analysis. The PMAT was distributed to all primary care-focused ambulatory care pharmacists employed by University of Utah Health (U of U Health) and Intermountain Healthcare (Intermountain). Ordinal responses were assigned to three possible categories of CMM support (High, Indifferent, and Low). Ten surveys were completed from U of U Health, and nine were completed from Intermountain. Thirty-two of the 86 survey questions resulted in a high level of support, and 25 questions resulted in a low level of support from the majority of respondents. Statistically significant differences between the institutions were found for 18 questions. The utilization of the PMAT within two Utah health systems highlighted areas of excellence and improvement and demonstrates a unique method for analysis of PMAT results.
Differences in Alternative Splicing between Yellow and Black-Seeded Rapeseed
Authors: Lin Ai , Ma Jinqi , Xu Fei , Xu Wen , Jiang Huanhuan , Zhang Haoran , Qu Cunmin , Wei Lijuan , Li Jiana
Published: August 2020

Yellow seed coat color is a desirable characteristic in rapeseed (Brassica napus), as it is associated with higher oil content and higher quality of meal. Alternative splicing (AS) is a vital post-transcriptional regulatory process contributing to plant cell differentiation and organ development. To identify novel transcripts and differences at the isoform level that are associated with seed color in B. napus, we compared 31 RNA-seq libraries of yellow- and black-seeded B. napus at five different developmental stages. AS events in the different samples were highly similar, and intron retention accounted for a large proportion of the observed AS pattern. AS mainly occurred in the early and middle stage of seed development. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) identified 23 co-expression modules composed of differentially spliced genes, and we picked out two of the modules whose functions were highly associated with seed color. In the two modules, we found candidate DAS (differentially alternative splicing) genes related to the flavonoid pathway, such as TT8 (BnaC09g24870D), TT5 (BnaA09g34840D and BnaC08g26020D), TT12 (BnaC06g17050D and BnaA07g18120D), AHA10 (BnaA08g23220D and BnaC08g17280D), CHI (BnaC09g50050D), BAN (BnaA03g60670D) and DFR (BnaC09g17150D). Gene BnaC03g23650D, encoding RNA-binding family protein, was also identified. The splicing of the candidate genes identified in this study might be used to develop stable, yellow-seeded B. napus. This study provides insight into the formation of seed coat color in B. napus.
The Effects of Triterpenoid Saponins from the Seeds of Momordica cochinchinensis on Adipocyte Differentiation and Mature Adipocyte Inflammation
Authors: Yu Jae Sik , Sahar Namood E. , Bi Yan-Ran , Jung Kiwon , Pang Changhyun , Huh Joo Young , Kim Ki Hyun
Published: August 2020

Obesity is a medical condition in which abnormal or excessive fat accumulates to an extent that is associated with various diseases. In our ongoing research to figure out natural products with anti-obesity effects, a phytochemical investigation of the EtOH extract of the seeds of Momordica cochinchinensis was carried out, which resulted in the isolation of two major triterpenoid saponins: gypsogenin 3-O-β-d-galactopyranosyl(1→2)-[α-l-rhamnopyranosyl (1→3)]-β-d-glucuronopyranoside (1) and quillaic acid 3-O-β-d-galactopyranosyl(1→2)-[α-l-rhamnopyranosyl(1→3)]-β-d-glucuronopyranoside (2). Then, the effects of the isolated triterpenoid saponins (1 and 2) on adipocyte differentiation were evaluated, and it was demonstrated that the isolated saponin (1) showed inhibitory effects on adipogenesis. In mature adipocytes, the isolated saponin (1) reversed tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα)-induced proinflammatory cytokine gene expression. Additionally, the isolated saponin (1) reduced lipolytic gene expression leading to decreased basal lipolysis activity. Collectively, these findings suggest that saponin (1) of M. cochinchinensis exerts beneficial effects in the regulation of adipogenesis and adipocyte inflammation and could be a potential therapeutic alternative in the treatment of obesity-induced metabolic diseases.
Water-Resistant Mechanoluminescent Electrospun Fabrics with Protected Sensitivity in Wet Condition via Plasma-Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition Process
Authors: Lee Halim , Cho Eunjin , Kerekes Tomas Webbe , Kwon Seung Lee , Yun Gun Jin , Kim Jooyoun
Published: August 2020

Mechanoluminescence (ML), which emits light upon external mechanical stress, was applied to fibrous composites. Herein, ML particles were incorporated into poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) and polyacrylonitrile (PAN) electrospun webs to prepare ML/PVDF and ML/PAN composite fabrics. The produced fabrics were treated with O2 and C4F8 plasma to modify the wetting properties, then the effects of composite wettability on the light-emitting response in dry and wet conditions were investigated. The light intensity was greatly decreased when the composite fabrics absorbed water. When the composites were hydrophobized by the C4F8 plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition process, the original light intensity was protected in wet conditions, while maintaining the water vapor transmission rate. As the clothing material would be exposed to moisture in varied situations, the reduced ML sensitivity in wet conditions may limit the application of ML composite fabrics. The findings suggest a facile strategy to fabricate moisture-resistant, breathable mechanoluminescence composite fabrics.
State-of-the-Art Polymer Science and Technology in Italy
Authors: Blanco Ignazio , Pantani Roberto , Pizzi Antonio , Sorrentino Andrea
Published: August 2020

The history of polymers in Italy certainly begins with Giulio Natta and the discovery of isotactic polypropylene [...]
Bending Behavior of Lightweight Wood-Based Sandwich Beams with Auxetic Cellular Core
Authors: Peliński Krzysztof , Smardzewski Jerzy
Published: August 2020

The work concerns a three-point bending test of beams made of plywood, high density fibre boards, cardboard, and wood-epoxy mass. The goal of the investigation was to determine the effect of thickness and type of wood-based facings on stiffness, strength, ability to absorb, and dissipate the energy of sandwich beams with an auxetic core. The cognitive goal of the work was to demonstrate the possibility of using recycled materials for facings and cores instead of popular wood composites. Experimental studies and numerical calculations were performed on correctly calibrated models. Experimental studies have shown that the beams with HDF facings (E = 1528 MPa, MOR = 12.61 MPa) and plywood facings (E = 1248–1395 MPa, MOR = 8.34–10.40 MPa) have the most favourable mechanical properties. Beams with plywood facings also have a good ability to absorb energy (1.380–1.746 J), but, in this respect, the beams manufactured of HDF (2.223 J) exhibited better capacity. The use of an auxetic core and facings of plywood and cardboard significantly reduces the amount of dissipated energy (0.0093 J, 0.0067 J). Therefore, this type of structures can be used for modeling beams carrying high deflections.
3D Printing and Solvent Dissolution Recycling of Polylactide–Lunar Regolith Composites by Material Extrusion Approach
Authors: Li Han , Zhao Wei , Wu Xinhui , Tang Hong , Li Qiushi , Tan Jing , Wang Gong
Published: August 2020

The in situ resource utilization of lunar regolith is of great significance for the development of planetary materials science and space manufacturing. The material extrusion deposition approach provides an advanced method for fabricating polylactide/lunar regolith simulant (PLA/CLRS-1) components. This work aims to fabricate 3D printed PLA–lunar regolith simulant (5 and 10 wt.%) components using the material extrusion 3D printing approach, and realize their solvent dissolution recycling process. The influence of the lunar regolith simulant on the mechanical and thermal properties of the 3D printed PLA/CLRS-1 composites is systematically studied. The microstructure of 3D printed PLA/CLRS-1 parts was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray computed tomography (XCT) analysis. The results showed that the lunar regolith simulant can be fabricated and combined with a PLA matrix utilizing a 3D printing process, only slightly influencing the mechanical performance of printed specimens. Moreover, the crystallization process of PLA is obviously accelerated by the addition of CLRS-1 because of heterogeneous nucleation. Additionally, by using gel permeation chromatography (GPC) and attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) characterization, it is found that the 3D printing and recycling processes have a negligible influence on the chemical structure and molecular weight of the PLA/CLRS-1 composites. As a breakthrough, we successfully utilize the lunar regolith simulant to print components with satisfactory mechanical properties and confirm the feasibility of recycling and reusing 3D printed PLA/CLRS-1 components via the solvent dissolution recycling approach.
Does Subunit Composition Influence the Intermolecular Crosslinking of Fish Collagen? A Study with Hake and Blue Shark Skin Collagens
Authors: Blanco María , Sanz Noelia , Valcarcel Jesús , Pérez-Martín Ricardo I. , Sotelo Carmen G.
Published: August 2020

Acid-soluble collagens from European hake and Blue shark skin were isolated, characterized, and compared. As the structure of collagen determines its function, the final objective of this study was to investigate biochemical differences between both collagens to identify future potential applications. Chromatographic behavior revealed differences in collagen from both species. Increases of temperature and stirring time produced no effect on European hake collagen solubility in the mobile phase, resulting in the same chromatographic profiles. Conversely, the application of temperature and stirring-time increments showed a positive effect on Blue shark collagen solubility, resulting in different chromatographic profiles and observing higher molecular weight components when sample is incubated at 50 °C (15 min) after 48 h stirring. To test if the different chromatographic behavior exhibited by both collagens could be influenced by differences in subunit composition (alpha-chains), cation exchange chromatography was employed to separate collagen subunits. The electrophoretic patterns and gel permeation chromatography with light-scattering detection (GPC-LS) results of the obtained cation exchange peak fractions revealed differences regarding subunit composition between both species, influencing the crosslinking pattern. This is the first comparative study using GPC-LS to provide information of European hake and Blue shark collagen subunit composition.
Evolution of Specific Heat Capacity with Temperature for Typical Supports Used for Heterogeneous Catalysts
Authors: Lu Xiaojia , Wang Yanjun , Estel Lionel , Kumar Narendra , Grénman Henrik , Leveneur Sébastien
Published: August 2020

Heterogeneous catalysts are widely used in the chemical industry. Compared with homogeneous catalysts, they can be easily separated from the reaction mixture. To design and optimize an efficient and safe chemical process one needs to calculate the energy balance, implying the need for knowledge of the catalyst’s specific heat capacity. Such values are typically not reported in the literature, especially not the temperature dependence. To fill this gap in knowledge, the specific heat capacities of commonly utilized heterogeneous catalytic supports were measured at different temperatures in a Tian–Calvet calorimeter. The following materials were tested: activated carbon, aluminum oxide, amberlite IR120 (H-form), H-Beta-25, H-Beta-38, H-Y-60, H-ZSM-5-23, H-ZSM-5-280, silicon dioxide, titanium dioxide, and zeolite 13X. Polynomial expressions were successfully fitted to the experimental data.
Real-Time Decision-Support System for High-Mix Low-Volume Production Scheduling in Industry 4.0
Authors: Kocsi Balázs , Matonya Michael Maiko , Pusztai László Péter , Budai István
Published: August 2020

Numerous organizations are striving to maximize the profit of their businesses by the effective implementation of competitive advantages including cost reduction, quick delivery, and unique high-quality products. Effective production-scheduling techniques are methods that many firms use to attain these competitive advantages. Implementing scheduling techniques in high-mix low-volume (HMLV) manufacturing industries, especially in Industry 4.0 environments, remains a challenge, as the properties of both parts and processes are dynamically changing. As a reaction to these challenges in HMLV Industry 4.0 manufacturing, a newly advanced and effective real-time production-scheduling decision-support system model was developed. The developed model was implemented with the use of robotic process automation (RPA), and it comprises a hybrid of different advanced scheduling techniques obtained as the result of analytical-hierarchy-process (AHP) analysis. The aim of this research was to develop a method to minimize the total production process time (total make span) by considering the results of risk analysis of HMLV manufacturing in Industry 4.0 environments. The new method is the combination of multi-broker (MB) optimization and a genetics algorithm (GA) that uses general key process indicators (KPIs) that are easy to measure in any kind of production. The new MB–GA method is compatible with industry 4.0 environments, so it is easy to implement. Furthermore, MB–GA deals with potential risk during production, so it can provide more accurate results. On the basis of survey results, 16% of the asked companies could easily use the new scheduling method, and 43.2% of the companies could use it after a little modification of production.
Numerical Modeling of Equal and Differentiated Gas Injection in Ladles: Effect on Mixing Time and Slag Eye
Authors: Jardón-Pérez Luis E. , González-Rivera Carlos , Ramirez-Argaez Marco A. , Dutta Abhishek
Published: August 2020

Ladle refining plays a crucial role in the steelmaking process, in which a gas stream is bubbled through molten steel to improve the rate of removal of impurities and enhance the transport phenomena that occur in a metallurgical reactor. In this study, the effect of dual gas injection using equal (50%:50%) and differentiated (75%:25%) flows was studied through numerical modeling, using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The effect of gas flow rate and slag thickness on mixing time and slag eye area were studied numerically and compared with the physical model. The numerical model agrees with the physical model, showing that for optimal performance the ladle must be operated using differentiated flows. Although the numerical model can predict well the hydrodynamic behavior (velocity and turbulent kinetic energy) of the ladle, there is a deviation from the experimental mixing time when using both equal and differentiated gas injection at a high gas flow rate and a high slag thickness. This is probably due to the insufficient capture of the velocity field near the water–oil (steel–slag) interface and slag emulsification by the numerical model, as well as the complicated nature of correctly simulating the interaction between both gas plumes.
A Hybrid of Particle Swarm Optimization and Harmony Search to Estimate Kinetic Parameters in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Rosle Mohamad Saufie , Mohamad Mohd Saberi , Choon Yee Wen , Ibrahim Zuwairie , González-Briones Alfonso , Chamoso Pablo , Corchado Juan Manuel
Published: August 2020

Recently, modelling and simulation have been used and applied to understand biological systems better. Therefore, the development of precise computational models of a biological system is essential. This model is a mathematical expression derived from a series of parameters of the system. The measurement of parameter values through experimentation is often expensive and time-consuming. However, if a simulation is used, the manipulation of computational parameters is easy, and thus the behaviour of a biological system model can be altered for a better understanding. The complexity and nonlinearity of a biological system make parameter estimation the most challenging task in modelling. Therefore, this paper proposes a hybrid of Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) and Harmony Search (HS), also known as PSOHS, designated to determine the kinetic parameter values of essential amino acids, mainly aspartate metabolism, in Arabidopsis thaliana. Three performance measurements are used in this paper to evaluate the proposed PSOHS: the standard deviation, nonlinear least squared error, and computational time. The proposed algorithm outperformed the other two methods, namely Simulated Annealing and the downhill simplex method, and proved that PSOHS is a more suitable algorithm for estimating kinetic parameter values.
Adaptive Feedback Control for a Pasteurization Process
Authors: Rasmussen Emil D.J. , Errico Massimiliano , Tronci Stefania
Published: August 2020

The milk pasteurization process is nonlinear in nature, and for this reason, the application of linear control algorithms does not guarantee the obtainment of the required performance in every condition. The problem is here addressed by proposing an adaptive algorithm, which was obtained by starting from an observer-based control approach. The main result is the obtainment of a simple PI-like controller structure, where the control parameters depend on the state of the system and are adapted online. The proposed algorithm was designed and applied on a simulated process, where the temperature dependence of the milk’s physical properties was considered. The control strategy was tested by simulating different situations, particularly when time-varying disturbances entered the system. The use of the adaptive rule reduces the variance generally introduced by the PI or PID controller.
Treatment of Cheese Whey Wastewater Using an Expanded Granular Sludge Bed (EGSB) Bioreactor with Biomethane Production
Authors: Cruz-Salomón Abumalé , Ríos-Valdovinos Edna , Pola-Albores Francisco , Lagunas-Rivera Selene , Cruz-Rodríguez Rosa Isela , Cruz-Salomón Kelly del Carmen , Hernández-Méndez Jesús Mauricio Ernesto , Domínguez-Espinosa María Emperatriz
Published: August 2020

Cheese whey wastewater (CWW) is the major by-product of the dairy industry. CWW is produced in large quantities, has varied characteristics and is usually disposed of. The disposal of CWW causes a negative impact on the environment of different agroindustrial areas due to the physic-chemical composition that significantly increases its high organic load and nutrients. For this reason, the aim of this work was to carry out an evaluation of the anaerobic treatability of an Expanded Granular Sludge Bed (EGSB) bioreactor as a new sustainable alternative for treatment of these effluents with bioenergy production. In this study, the bioreactor was operated under stable conditions (i.e., buffer index of 0.23 ± 0.1, pH 7.22 ± 0.4 and temperature 26.6 ± 1.4 °C) for 201 days. During evaluation the hydraulic retention time (HRT) was 6 and 8 days, and it was buffered with NaHCO3. At these conditions, the COD removal rate and biochemical methane potential (BMP) were 90, 92%; and 334, 328 mLCH4/gCOD, respectively. The evidence found in this study highlighted that the CWW is a viable substrate to be treated in the EGSB bioreactor as long as it keeps buffered. Furthermore, the process to treat the CWW in an EGSB bioreactor can be a sustainable alternative to simultaneously solve the environmental pollution that this agro-industry confronts and produce renewable and environmentally-friendly bioenergy.
Ground Tire Rubber Recycling in Applications as Insulators in Polymeric Compounds, According to Spanish UNE Standards
Authors: Marín-Genescà Marc , García-Amorós Jordi , Mujal-Rosas Ramon , Vidal Lluís Massagués , Arroyo Jordi Bordes , Fajula Xavier Colom
Published: August 2020

In the present research, we investigated the conceivable outcomes of using ground tire rubber (GTR) particle polymeric blends. Special methods of restoring tires that are no longer in use include GTR retreading, GTR blending destined for recycling to attain raw substances utilized in other industrial application production processes, and the valorization of GTR for power/energy generation. The recycling of end-of-life tires enables the recovery of rubber, steel, and fibers, all of which are valid on the market as raw materials to be used for other processes. There are methods to recycle GTRs in a clean and environmentally friendly way. In the present research, several industrial applications of GTR polymer blends were developed and compared with standard values from the Spanish Association for Standardization (UNE) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). In order to analyze the viability in many of the industrial applications selected, certain compounds obtained from the GTR polymer blends were analyzed regarding their use in nine low requirement insulator applications. The research and analysis developed in this manuscript used standard values from the UNE and IEC, and these standard values were compared with the test values. The obtained results were used to provide an application list that could be helpful for industrial applications. In this research, the pre-owned polymers were as follows: polypropylene (PP), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polystyrene (PS), acrylonitrile butadiene-styrene (ABS), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polyamide (PA). The filler used was GTR with particle sizes lower than 200 microns. The amounts of GTR particles in the compound materials were 0% (raw polymer), 5%, 10%, 20%, 40%, 50%, and 70% (the latter being found in polymeric blends). We discovered six plausible modern applications of GTR polymer blends as indicated by the UNE and IEC standards.