bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of an Irradiation-Induced Recombination Suppressing Inversion on the Genetic Stability and Biological Quality of a White Eye-Based Aedes aegypti Genetic Sexing Strain
Authors: Misbah-ul-Haq Muhammad , Augustinos Antonios A. , Carvalho Danilo O. , Duran de la Fuente Lucia , Bourtzis Kostas
Published: October 2022

Aedes aegypti is the primary vector of diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, Zika fever, and yellow fever. The sterile insect technique (SIT) has been proposed as a species-specific and environment-friendly tool for the suppression of mosquito vector populations as a major component of integrated vector management strategies. As female mosquitoes are blood-feeders and may transmit pathogenic microorganisms, mosquito SIT depends on the release of sterile males. Genetic sexing strains (GSS) can be used for the efficient and robust separation of males from females. Two Ae. aegypti GSS were recently developed by exploiting eye colour mutations, resulting in the Red-eye GSS (RGSS) and the White-eye GSS (WGSS). In this study, we compared two WGSS, with and without the chromosomal inversion 35 (Inv35), and evaluated their biological quality, including genetic stability. Our results suggest that the WGSS/Inv35 presents a low recombination rate and long-term genetic stability when recombinants are removed from the colony (filtering) and a slow accumulation of recombinants when they are not removed from the colony (non-filtering). The two strains were similar with respect to fecundity, pupal and adult recovery rates, pupation curve, and pupal weight. However, differences were detected in fertility, survival rate of females, and flight ability of males. The WGSS/Inv35 presented lower fertility, higher survival rate of females, and better flight ability of males compared to the WGSS.
Identification and Characterization of Small RNA Markers of Age in the Blow Fly Cochliomyia macellaria (Fabricius) (Diptera: Calliphoridae)
Authors: Hjelmen Carl E. , Yuan Ye , Parrott Jonathan J. , McGuane Alexander S. , Srivastav Satyam P. , Purcell Amanda C. , Pimsler Meaghan L. , Sze Sing-Hoi , Tarone Aaron M.
Published: October 2022

Blow fly development is important in decomposition ecology, agriculture, and forensics. Much of the impact of these species is from immature samples, thus knowledge of their development is important to enhance or ameliorate their effects. One application of this information is the estimation of immature insect age to provide temporal information for death investigations. While traditional markers of age such as stage and size are generally accurate, they lack precision in later developmental stages. We used miRNA sequencing to measure miRNA expression, throughout development, of the secondary screwworm, Cochliomyia macellaria (Fabricius) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) and identified 217 miRNAs present across the samples. Ten were identified to be significantly differentially expressed in larval samples and seventeen were found to be significantly differentially expressed in intrapuparial samples. Twenty-eight miRNAs were identified to be differentially expressed between sexes. Expression patterns of two miRNAs, miR-92b and bantam, were qPCR-validated in intrapuparial samples; these and likely food-derived miRNAs appear to be stable markers of age in C. macellaria. Our results support the use of miRNAs for developmental markers of age and suggest further investigations across species and under a range of abiotic and biotic conditions.
Microhabitat Selection for Overwintering: Overwintering Conditions of Three Jumping Spiders (Pellenes tripunctatus, P. nigrociliatus, and Attulus penicillatus) Living in Terrestrial Shells in the Czech Republic
Authors: Dziváková Kristína , Fric Zdeněk Faltýnek , Hula Vladimír
Published: October 2022

Taking the regular overwintering of spider species in land snail shells as a model, we studied environmental conditions affecting the choice of overwintering sites in three jumping spider species: Pellenes tripunctatus, Pellenes nigrociliatus, and Attulus penicillatus. The research was conducted at 11 steppe localities on calcareous bedrock with abundant empty shells (mainly Caucasotachea vindobonensis and Xerolenta obvia). We documented 889 shells and collected 186 of them, of which 113 were inhabited by 146 spider individuals (13 species). Our three focal species made up 81.5% of these. We found different environmental preferences between the sexes in P. tripunctatus and P. nigrociliatus. These females preferred shells with more vegetation nearby. In the case of P. tripunctatus, these were shells with a higher proportion of herbs, whereas P. nigrociliatus selected for a higher proportion of moss. In the immediate vicinity of the shells, environmental conditions did not differ significantly. We found insufficient A. penicillatus to determine any preferences. We also recorded six overwintering P. tripunctatus individuals in a single shell (in environmental conditions preferred by females), consisting of five females and one male, which indicated an unusual social behavior for these spider species.
Impact of Pre-Operative Right Ventricular Response to Hemodynamic Optimization on Outcomes in Patients with LVADs
Authors: Duque Ernesto , Alvarez Paulino , Yang Yingchi , Khalid Muhammad , Kshetri Rupesh , Doulamis Ilias , Panos Anthony , Briasoulis Alexandros
Published: October 2022

Background: Right ventricular failure (RVF) continues to affect patients supported with durable left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) and results in increased morbidity and mortality. Information regarding the impact of right ventricular response to pre-operative optimization on outcomes is scarce. Methods: Single-center retrospective analysis of consecutive patients who underwent first continuous flow LVAD implantation between 2006 and 2020. Patients with bi-ventricular support before LVAD or without hemodynamic data were excluded. Invasive hemodynamics at baseline and after pre-operative medical and/or temporary circulatory support were recorded. Patients were grouped in the following categories: A: No Hemodynamic RV dysfunction (RVD) at baseline; B: RVD with achievement of RV hemodynamic optimization goals; C: RVD without achievement of RV optimization goals. The main outcomes were right ventricular failure defined as inotropes >14 days after implantation, or postoperative right ventricular mechanical support, and all-cause mortality. Results: Overall, 128 patients were included in the study. The mean age was 58 ±12.5 years, 74.2% were males and, 68.7% had non-ischemic cardiomyopathy. Hemodynamic RVD was present in 70 (54.7%) of the patients at baseline. RV hemodynamic goals were achieved in 46 (79.31%) patients with RVD and in all the patients without RVD at baseline. Failure to achieve hemodynamic optimization goals was associated with a significantly higher risk of RVF after LVAD implantation (adjusted OR 4.37, 95% CI 1.14–16.76, p = 0.031) compared with no RVD at baseline and increased 1-year mortality compared with no RVD (adjusted HR 4.1, 95% CI 1.24–13.2, p = 0.02) and optimized RVD (adjusted HR 6.4, 95% CI 1.6–25.2, p = 0.008).Conclusion: Among patients with RVD, the inability to achieve hemodynamic optimization goals was associated with higher rates of RV failure and increased 1-year all-cause mortality post LVAD implantation.
Impact of CPAP Therapy on New Inflammation Biomarkers
Authors: Friščić Tea , Perčić Marko , Vidović Domagoj , Štajduhar Andrija , Galić Edvard
Published: October 2022

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder leading to increased risk of developing cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) by supporting a low-grade chronic inflammation as one of the pathological mechanisms. The continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device is used as an effective treatment for moderate and severe OSA. Neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet–lymphocyte ratio (PLR), white blood cell–mean platelet volume ratio (WMR), C-reactive protein–albumin ratio (CAR) and fibrinogen–albumin ratio (FAR) are new potential inflammatory biomarkers that are widely available and were shown to be possibly favorable screening or follow-up tools for moderate- or severe-grade OSA, as well as indirect indicators for cardiovascular risk. Our study evaluated the impact of CPAP therapy in patients with severe OSA and acceptable therapy adherence on NLR, PLR, WMR, FAR and CAR. Of 57 patients who were initially enrolled and had no exclusion criteria, 37 had a satisfactory CPAP adherence (usage of ≥4 h per night) after a minimum of 6 months of therapy. There was a statistically significant difference in NLR (2.122 ± 0.745 before therapy vs. 1.888 ± 0.735 after therapy) and FAR (86.445 ± 18.763 before therapy vs. 77.321 ± 19.133 after therapy) suggesting a positive effect of the CPAP therapy on chronic inflammatory states, thereby possibly reducing cardiovascular risk.
Presentation and Prognosis of Primary Expansile and Infiltrative Mucinous Carcinomas of the Ovary
Authors: Huin Marine , Lorenzini Jerome , Arbion Flavie , Carcopino Xavier , Touboul Cyril , Dabi Yohann , Kerbage Yohan , Costaz Hélène , Lecointre Lise , Lavoué Vincent , Bolze Pierre-Adrien , Huchon Cyrille , Bricou Alexandre , Canlorbe Geoffroy , Mimoun Camille , Bendifallah Sofiane , Gauthier Tristan , Body Gilles , Ouldamer Lobna
Published: October 2022

Objective: The aim of the present study was to evaluate evolution and prognosis of mucinous ovarian carcinomas (mOC), with respect to the two invasive patterns: expansile and infiltrative invasion. Methods: This was a descriptive, retrospective, multicenter study conducted in 13 French centres from 1 January 2001 to 31 December 2019. All patients operated on for epithelial ovarian neoplasia of the mucinous type (infiltrative/expansile) were included, whether the surgery was performed immediately or after neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Results: A total of 94 women with mucinous carcinomas were included in the present study. Mucinous tumours were divided into 35 expansile (37%) and 59 infiltrative (63%) mOC. There was a statistically significant difference in early and late stages at initial diagnosis between expansile and infiltrative mOC. None of the expansile mOC showed metastatic lymph nodes, whereas almost a quarter of the infiltrative mOC were metastatic to the pelvic/para-aortic region. There was a clear difference in RFS, in favour of expansile mOC, with 90% survival at 5 years, compared with 60% for infiltrative mOC. Conclusions: Although infiltrative and expansile mOC belong to the same histological family, they present many distinctions in clinical presentation, histological invasion, and disease course.
Assessment of Adult Patients with Long COVID Manifestations Suspected as Cardiovascular: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Shechter Alon , Yelin Dana , Margalit Ili , Abitbol Merry , Morelli Olga , Hamdan Ashraf , Vaturi Mordehay , Eisen Alon , Sagie Alex , Kornowski Ran , Shapira Yaron
Published: October 2022

Background: Persistent symptoms affect a subset of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) survivors. Some of these may be cardiovascular (CV)-related. Objective: To assess the burden of objective CV morbidity among, and to explore the short-term course experienced by, COVID-19 patients with post-infectious symptomatology suspected as CV. Methods: This was a single-center, retrospective analysis of consecutive adult patients with new-onset symptoms believed to be CV following recovery from COVID-19, who had been assessed at a dedicated ‘Cardio’-COVID clinic between June 2020 and June 2021. All participants were followed for 1 year for symptomatic course and the occurrence of new CV diagnoses and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). Results: A total of 96 patients (median age 54 (IQR, 44–64) years, 52 (54%) females) were included in the final analysis. Initial visits occurred within a median of 142 days after the diagnosis of acute COVID. Nearly all (99%) patients experienced a symptomatic acute illness, which was graded as severe in 26 (27%) cases according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) criteria. Long-COVID symptoms included mainly dyspnea and fatigue. While the initial work-up was mostly normal, 45% of the 11 cardiac magnetic resonance studies performed revealed pathologies. New CV diagnoses were made in nine (9%) patients and mainly included myocarditis that later resolved. An abnormal spirometry was the only variable associated with these. No MACE were recorded. Fifty-two (54%) participants felt that their symptoms improved. No association was found between CV morbidity and symptomatic course. Conclusions: In our experience, long-COVID symptoms of presumed CV origin signified actual CV disease in a minority of patients who, irrespective of the final diagnosis, faced a fair 1-year prognosis.
Discovery of Oleaginous Yeast from Mountain Forest Soil in Thailand
Authors: Sapsirisuk Sirawich , Polburee Pirapan , Lorliam Wanlapa , Limtong Savitree
Published: October 2022

As an interesting alternative microbial platform for the sustainable synthesis of oleochemical building blocks and biofuels, oleaginous yeasts are increasing in both quantity and diversity. In this study, oleaginous yeast species from northern Thailand were discovered to add to the topology. A total of 127 yeast strains were isolated from 22 forest soil samples collected from mountainous areas. They were identified by an analysis of the D1/D2 domain of the large subunit rRNA (LSU rRNA) gene sequences to be 13 species. The most frequently isolated species were Lipomyces tetrasporus and Lipomyces starkeyi. Based on the cellular lipid content determination, 78 strains of ten yeast species, and two potential new yeast that which accumulated over 20% of dry biomass, were found to be oleaginous yeast strains. Among the oleaginous species detected, Papiliotrema terrestris and Papiliotrema flavescens have never been reported as oleaginous yeast before. In addition, none of the species in the genera Piskurozyma and Hannaella were found to be oleaginous yeast. L. tetrasporus SWU-NGP 2-5 accumulated the highest lipid content of 74.26% dry biomass, whereas Lipomyces mesembrius SWU-NGP 14-6 revealed the highest lipid quantity at 5.20 ± 0.03 g L−1. The fatty acid profiles of the selected oleaginous yeasts varied depending on the strain and suitability for biodiesel production.
IL-2 and IL-1β Patient Immune Responses Are Critical Factors in SARS-CoV-2 Infection Outcomes
Authors: Fawzy Shereen , Ahmed Mesaik M. , Alsayed Badr A. , Mir Rashid , Amle Dnyanesh
Published: October 2022

Background: Immune dysregulation has been linked to morbidity and mortality in COVID-19 patients. Understanding the immunology of COVID-19 is critical for developing effective therapies, diagnostics, and prophylactic strategies to control the disease. Aim: The aim of this study was to correlate cytokine and chemokine serum levels with COVID-19 disease severity and mortality. Subjects and Methods: A total of 60 hospitalized patients from the Tabuk region of Saudi Arabia with confirmed COVID-19 were included in the study. At hospital admission, the IL-1 β, IL-2, IL-8, IL-10, LT-B4, and CCL-2 serum levels were measured. The cytokine levels in COVID-19 patients were compared to the levels in 30 healthy matched control subjects. Results: The IL-1 β, IL-2, LTB-4, CCL-2, and IL-8 levels (but not IL-10) were significantly higher in all COVID-19 patients (47 survivors and 13 non-survivors) compared with the levels in the healthy control group. In the non-survivor COVID-19 patients, patients’ age, D-dimer, and creatinine kinase were significantly higher, and IL-1 β, IL-2, and IL-8 were significantly lower compared with the levels in the survivors. Conclusion: Mortality rates in COVID-19 patients are associated with increased age and a failure to mount an effective immune response rather than developing a cytokine storm. These results warrant the personalized treatment of COVID-19 patients based on cytokine profiling.
Identification of Potential Repurposable Drugs in Alzheimer’s Disease Exploiting a Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: Fiscon Giulia , Sibilio Pasquale , Funari Alessio , Conte Federica , Paci Paola
Published: October 2022

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurologic disorder causing brain atrophy and the death of brain cells. It is a progressive condition marked by cognitive and behavioral impairment that significantly interferes with daily activities. AD symptoms develop gradually over many years and eventually become more severe, and no cure has been found yet to arrest this process. The present study is directed towards suggesting putative novel solutions and paradigms for fighting AD pathogenesis by exploiting new insights from network medicine and drug repurposing strategies. To identify new drug–AD associations, we exploited SAveRUNNER, a recently developed network-based algorithm for drug repurposing, which quantifies the vicinity of disease-associated genes to drug targets in the human interactome. We complemented the analysis with an in silico validation of the candidate compounds through a gene set enrichment analysis, aiming to determine if the modulation of the gene expression induced by the predicted drugs could be counteracted by the modulation elicited by the disease. We identified some interesting compounds belonging to the beta-blocker family, originally approved for treating hypertension, such as betaxolol, bisoprolol, and metoprolol, whose connection with a lower risk to develop Alzheimer’s disease has already been observed. Moreover, our algorithm predicted multi-kinase inhibitors such as regorafenib, whose beneficial effects were recently investigated for neuroinflammation and AD pathology, and mTOR inhibitors such as sirolimus, whose modulation has been associated with AD.
Serum Adiponectin, a Novel Biomarker Correlates with Skin Thickness in Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Leodori Giorgia , Pellicano Chiara , Basile Valerio , Colalillo Amalia , Navarini Luca , Gigante Antonietta , Gulli Francesca , Marino Mariapaola , Basile Umberto , Rosato Edoardo
Published: October 2022

The aim was to evaluate the longitudinal association between basal serum adiponectin and repeated measurements of skin thickness during 12 months of follow-up in systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients. We enrolled SSc patients with disease duration > 2 years in a prospective observational study. Skin thickness was measured at baseline and after 12 months of follow-up with modified Rodnan skin score (mRSS). Baseline serum adiponectin was determined using a commercial ELISA kit. We enrolled 66 female SSc patients (median age 54 years, IQR 42–62 years). The median disease duration was 12 (IQR 8–16) years and median baseline serum adiponectin was 9.8 (IQR 5.6–15.6) mcg/mL. The median mRSS was 10 (IQR 6–18) at baseline and 12 (IQR 7–18) at follow-up. A significant correlation was observed between baseline serum adiponectin and disease duration (r = 0.264, p < 0.05), age (r = 0.515, p < 0.0001), baseline mRSS (r = −0.303, p < 0.05), and mRSS at follow-up (r = −0.322, p < 0.001). In multiple regression analysis, only mRSS at follow-up showed an inverse correlation with baseline serum adiponectin (β = −0.132, p < 0.01). The reduction in serum adiponectin levels is correlated with skin thickness.
BWM—RAPS Approach for Evaluating and Ranking Banking Sector Companies Based on Their Financial Indicators in the Saudi Stock Market
Authors: Alamoudi Mohammed H. , Bafail Omer A.
Published: October 2022

Seeking the greatest possible return on long-term investments, investors naturally seek equities of the best-performing companies that fit their investment timeframe. Long-term investment success rests on selecting the best companies, which requires a challenging analysis reviewing voluminous and often-conflicting data about companies and understanding broader economic forecasts. This paper undertook a case study deployment of MCDM methodologies to examine the suitability and effectiveness of Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) methods in assessing and ranking the best stocks for portfolio inclusion. A combination of MCDM techniques comprised a methodology to evaluate and rank Saudi Arabian banking stocks based on their performance in the Saudi stock market. Specifically, the paper combined the Best–Worst Method (BWM) and Ranking Alternatives by Perimeter Similarity (RAPS) for the analysis. BWM calculated each criterion’s relative impact (weight) in selecting a stock. RAPS then used the weighting to rank the results of the investigation. The study’s findings yielded encouraging results regarding using an integrated MCDM technique to derive optimal banking sector securities in the expansive Saudi stock market. The novel application of the robust RAPS technique combined with BWM encourages continued and increased use of MCDM techniques in financial matters and broader application in evaluating equities.
Appraising Executive Compensation ESG-Based Indicators Using Analytical Hierarchical Process and Delphi Techniques
Authors: Matemane Reon , Moloi Tankiso , Adelowotan Michael
Published: October 2022

Economic, social and governance (ESG) have become topical subjects amidst the deleterious effects of climate change, inequality and similar pressing challenges facing the people and the planet. The main objective of this study was to rank the importance of both the pillars within the ESG model and the five indicators beneath each pillar for the purposes of executive compensation plans through the Analytical hierarchical process (AHP). It is not known which pillar within the ESG model should be prioritised by companies operating in a developing economy context such as South Africa, and neither is it known which of the available indicators should be prioritised when designing executive compensation plans. AHP and pairwise comparison is employed in prioritising important pillars and indicators. The environmental pillar is identified to be the most important among the three pillars. Indicators that are prioritised mirror both the environmental and socio-economic challenges prevalent in South Africa as an emerging economy. Companies’ boards, remuneration committees, investors and policymakers can use the ESG-based indicators that have been prioritised in this study in designing the executive compensation plans. AHP and pairwise comparison are novel approaches used to prioritise the important pillars within the ESG model and the underlying indicators.
Understanding Recovery Is as Important as Understanding Decline: The Case of the Crested Ibis in China
Authors: Li Xinhai , Fu Jiayu , Zhai Tianqing , Zhang Yazu , Bruford Michael W. , Sun Yuehua , Zhan Xiangjiang
Published: October 2022

The wild population of the crested ibis (Nipponia nippon) has recovered remarkably from seven individuals in 1981 to over 7000 in 2021. However, it is unclear how key factors, from endogenous density dependence to exogenous environmental pressure, have contributed to the species’ recovery. We used species distribution models to quantify the contributions of climatic variables, human impact, land form and land use in order to understand the recovery process in the context of prevailing environmental conditions. We also calculated the nest density over the past 39 years to estimate the influence of density dependence on population dynamics. We found that the interaction between rice paddy areas and water bodies (rivers, lakes and ponds) had the highest contribution to nest site selection, whereas linear terms for either rice paddies or water bodies alone had little effect. During its recovery, sub-populations in two watersheds have been constrained by high density and have experienced logistic growth, while other sub-populations in over seven watersheds are growing exponentially. Our models indicate that exogenous environmental factors are more important than density restriction at this stage. In China’s transformed landscape, the crested ibis needs both rice paddies and water bodies to fulfil its annual life cycle. Habitat protection should thus cover both habitat types to ensure the long-term survival of this still endangered species.
Pluri-Grammars for Pluri-Genders: Competing Gender Systems in the Nominal Morphology of Non-Binary French
Authors: Kaplan Jennifer Marisa
Published: October 2022

Although much has been written in recent years on the emergence of non-binary English linguistic innovations, comparatively little has been written on non-binary French forms, especially neo-morphemes marking non-binary gender on nouns. As French is a grammatical-gender language with a traditionally binary (masculine and feminine) system, many non-binary Francophones have circumvented the social connection between grammatical gender and human gender in innovating new, non-binary markers for animate nouns and their modifiers. This study uses a mixed methods approach, combining analysis of non-binary French grammars alongside interview data in order to highlight the divergent morphological approaches underlying non-binary marking systems. Three approaches to the formation of non-binary nouns are identified: A Compounding Approach, which combines masculine and feminine markers; a Systematic Approach, which phonologically conditions the use of non-binary allomorphs, with the markers themselves ranging from phonologically novel within French syllabic structure, to homophonous with masculine and/or feminine variants; and an Invariable Approach, which applies a single non-binary marker across all nouns. Ultimately, this study disentangles both morphological patterns in the formation of non-binary words and some of the motivations behind them in an emerging French subtype well-known to be heterogeneous.
On the Role of 40K in the Origin of Terrestrial Life
Authors: Vladilo Giovanni
Published: October 2022

The abundance and biological role of potassium suggest that its unstable nuclide was present in all stages of terrestrial biogenesis. With its enhanced isotopic ratio in the Archean eon, 40K may have contributed to the special, perhaps unique, biogenetic conditions that were present in the primitive Earth. Compared to the U and Th radionuclides, 40K has a less disruptive radiochemical impact, which may drive a moderate, but persistent evolution of the structural and functional properties of proto-biological molecules. In the main β-decay route of 40K, the radiation dose generated by an Archean solution with potassium ions can be larger than the present background radiation on Earth by one to two orders of magnitude. Estimates of the rates of organic molecules indirectly affected by β decays are provided for two schematic models of the propagation of secondary events in the solvent of prebiotic solutions. The left-handed β− particles emitted by 40K are the best candidates to trigger an enantiomeric excess of L-type amino acids via weak nuclear forces in the primitive Earth. The concentration-dependent radiation dose of 40K fits well in dry–wet scenarios of life’s origins and should be considered in realistic simulations of prebiotic chemical pathways.
5-Methyl-1-phenyl-3-(thieno[2,3-d]pyrimidin-4-yl)chromeno[4,3-d]pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridin-6(3H)-one
Authors: Yin Xuelian , Song Yang-Heon
Published: October 2022

A chromeno[4,3-d]pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridinone derivative 3 bearing thieno[2,3-d]pyrimidine moiety, 5-methyl-1-phenyl-3-(thieno[2,3-d]pyrimidin-4-yl)chromeno[4,3-d]pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridin-6(3H)-one, was efficiently prepared in 75% yield by the reaction of 3-phenyl-1-(thieno[2,3-d]pyrimidin-4-yl)-1H-pyrazol-5-amine 1 with 3-acetyl-2H-chromen-2-one 2 in the presence of FeCl3-SiO2 as a catalyst in refluxing ethanol for 6 h. The structure of the new synthesized compound was characterized by 1H-, 13C- NMR, IR spectroscopy, mass-spectrometry, and elemental analysis.
Study on Residual Stress in Disc-Milling Grooving of Blisks
Authors: Xin Hongmin , Xing Taotao , Dai Hui , Zhang Jian , Yao Changfeng , Cui Minchao , Zhang Qinggui
Published: October 2022

The disc-milling method is expected to increase the grooving efficiency of blisks. However, there are few studies about the residual stress on a blisk during disc-milling grooving. In this study, a single-factor experiment and an orthogonal experiment of blisk disc-milling and grooving were designed to obtain the residual stress. Surface subsurface residual stress were also studied. The results showed that the surface of the milling groove bore compressive stress. Residual stress decreased with increasing spindle speed and increased with increasing feed speed and spindle rotation angle. Moreover, residual stress was most sensitive to spindle rotation angle and least sensitive to feed speed. A higher residual stress produced on the machined surface led to a deeper layer of residual stress.
Characterization of Porous CuO Films for H2S Gas Sensors
Authors: Jung Dawoon , Hwang Sehoon , Kim Hyun-Jong , Han Jae-Hee , Lee Ho-Nyun
Published: October 2022

Using a thermal evaporator, various porous Cu films were deposited according to the deposition pressure. CuO films were formed by post heat treatment in the air. Changes in morphological and structural characteristics of films were analyzed using field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Relative density and porosity were quantitatively calculated. CuO films with various pores ranging from 39.4 to 95.2% were successfully manufactured and were applied as gas sensors for H2S detection on interdigitated electrode (IDE) substrate. Resistance change was monitored at 325 °C and an increase in porosity of the film improved the sensor performance. The CuO-10 gas sensor with a high porosity of 95.2% showed a relatively high response (2.7) and a fast recovery time (514 s) for H2S 1.5 ppm. It is confirmed that the porosity of the CuO detection layer had a significant effect on response and recovery time.
Evaluation of Glass-Ionomer versus Bulk-Fill Resin Composite: A Two-Year Randomized Clinical Study
Authors: Uzel İlhan , Aykut-Yetkiner Arzu , Ersin Nazan , Ertuğrul Fahinur , Atila Elif , Özcan Mutlu
Published: October 2022

Background: The aim of this split-mouth design research was to compare the clinical performance of a glass-ionomer cement system on Class I/II cavities against the clinical performance of bulk-fill resin composite restoration materials. Methods: Thirty-five patients were randomized and enrolled in the study, aged between 10 and 12 years, all of whom had a matched pair of permanent mandibular carious molars with similar Class I/II. A total of 70 restoration placements were performed. The patients were each given two restorations consisting of either a glass-ionomer cement with a nano-filled coating or a bulk-fill resin composite after the use of a self-etch adhesive. The cumulative survival rates were estimated using log-rank test and the Kaplan–Meier method. For comparison of the restorative materials in line with the modified Ryge, the McNemar test and the Wilcoxon signed rank test were employed. Results: With regard to retention, the glass-ionomer cement system and bulk-fill resin composite performed similarly in permanent molars in Class I/II cavities over a period of up to 24-months (p > 0.05). Over the 24-month period, Class I restorations showed statistically better survival rates than Class II restorations (p < 0.05). In the case of glass-ionomer cement systems, over the two-year period, more common chipping and surface degradations were observed. Conclusions: The glass-ionomer cement system and bulk-fill resin composite restorative materials display good clinical performance over a period of 24-months.
Laser–Arc Hybrid Cladding of Al-Mg Alloy Coating on AZ80 Mg Alloy: Effect of Laser Beam Oscillations Amplitude
Authors: Ren Zhiqiang , Zhao Yang , Han Guofeng , Wang Wenyu , Zhou Kebin , He Tianpeng , Sun Yu
Published: October 2022

The effect of beam oscillating amplitude on the microstructure and performance of AZ80 Mg alloy cladded with Al-Mg alloy coating by laser–arc hybrid welding was studied. The penetration depth decreases significantly while welds are widened because of the increase in the oscillating area of a laser beam. Alloy segregation and keyhole-induced porosity can be suppressed by the laser beam oscillation. With the increase in the oscillating amplitude, the Al distribution becomes uniform in the weld seam because of the rapid and fierce stirring by the oscillating laser. However, the diluting of the cladded Al alloy restrains the formation of the brittle Mg17Al12 phase, and then causes the weakening of hardness and wear resistance of the cladded layer. Considered comprehensively, the optimized oscillating amplitude was 1 mm, which can produce the weld seam with good appearance, fewer segregation and porosity defects, and acceptable hardness and wear resistance.
Crystalline Orientation-Dependent Ferromagnetism in N+-Implanted MgO Single Crystal
Authors: Wang Xingyu , Ma Chunlin , Zhou Weiping , Tan Weishi
Published: October 2022

Samples of (110), (100), and (111) MgO single crystals were implanted with 70 keV N ions at room temperature. All as-implanted samples showed room temperature hysteresis in magnetization loops. The observed saturation magnetization (Ms) was 0.79 × 10−4 emu/g, 1.28 × 10−4 emu/g, and 1.5 × 10−4 emu/g for (110), (100) and (111) orientation implanted-MgO and follows the relation Ms(111) > Ms(100) > Ms(110), indicative of crystalline orientation-dependent ferromagnetism in N-implanted MgO. The samples were characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), high resolution X-ray diffraction (HRXRD), reciprocal space mapping (RSM), and photoluminescence (PL). The results indicated that the amount of N-substitute-O and N-interstitial defects in these three N-implanted MgO samples showed the same changing tendency as compared with Ms data. Thus, we conclude that the N-substitute-O and N-interstitial defects may play a crucial role in controlling the N+-implanted-induced ferromagnetism.
Influence of EDM Process Parameters on the Surface Finish of Alnico Alloys
Authors: Bańkowski Damian , Młynarczyk Piotr
Published: October 2022

This article deals with electrical discharge machining (EDM) of an alnico alloy, focusing on how key process parameters affect the surface finish. The experiments were conducted using a BP93L EDM machine. The Box–Behnken design was employed to study the effects of three factors, i.e., spark current, pulse-on time, and pulse-off time, each at three levels, on the surface quality. A specially designed system was employed to increase the effectiveness of the machining process by imparting an additional rotary motion to the tool and an additional rotary motion to the workpiece. The aim was to efficiently remove the eroded metal particles and create a surface with smaller craters. The workpiece surface roughness was measured with a Talysurf CCI lite non-contact profiler. During this precision machining process, the arithmetical mean height (Sa) was less than 1 µm. The surface quality was examined also using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and optical microscopy (OM). The experimental data were analyzed by means of Statistica to determine and graphically represent the relationships between the input and output parameters.
Influence of Inertia on the Dynamic Compressive Strength of Concrete
Authors: Qin Zhangchen , Zheng Dan , Li Xinxin , Wang Haicui
Published: October 2022

The rate sensitivity of concrete material is closely related to the inertia and viscous effects. However, the effect of inertia on the dynamic strength of concrete remains unclear. In this paper, digital image correlation technology was applied to study the strain variation of dry and saturated concrete with different loading rates. The test results indicated that the strain gradually decreased with the distance from the load end, and the strain gradient around the load region increased with the strain rate, especially for saturated concrete. Then, a single degree of freedom model was established to evaluate the dynamic compressive strength of elastic concrete. The calculated results indicated that the influence of inertia on the dynamic increase factor (DIF) was negligible for concrete within a low strain rate. When the strain rate is larger than 100/s, the inertial effect on the strength of concrete should be considered. After that, a quasi-static concrete damaged plasticity (CDP) model was employed to simulate the influence of inertia on the stress distribution and axial reaction force at the loaded end of concrete under different rates of compressive loading and verified with experimental results. The results obtained in this study indicated that the dynamic nominal strength of concrete obtained from the tests could not be directly used for structural analysis which may overestimate the effect of inertia on the dynamic response of the structure.
Synthesis of Biocompatible and Biodegradable Polyamidoamines Microgels via a Simple and Reliable Statistical Approach
Authors: Mauro Nicolò , Giammona Gaetano , Ranucci Elisabetta , Ferruti Paolo
Published: October 2022

Polyamidoamines (PAAs) are biocompatible and biodegradable polymers with a huge potential as biomaterials for pharmaceutical applications. They are obtained by the step-wise aza-Michael polyaddition of bifunctional or multifunctional amines with bisacrylamides in water. To the best of our knowledge, no synthetic protocols leading to hyperbranched PAAs as well as PAA microgels have been published so far. To fill this gap, a statistical approach was established in this work to fine-tune the aza-Michael polyaddition stoichiometry when a multifunctional co-monomer (bf) is added to a mixture of bifunctional monomers with complementary functions (a2 + b2), possibly even in presence of a monofunctional co-monomer (b1), for obtaining either microgels or hyperbranched polymers by a one-pot reaction. For this purpose, two new equations, obtained by reworking the classic Flory–Stockmayer equations, were successfully applied to the synthesis of different model systems, obtaining biocompatible microgels with tunable size distribution (200–500 nm) and properly designed end-chains in a simple and straightforward way. The same mathematical approach allowed us to empirically evaluate the actual number of active reactive functions of the co-monomers. A number of selected systems, being evaluated for their cytotoxicity in vitro, proved highly cytocompatible and, therefore, endowed with great potential for pharmaceutical and medical applications.
A Review on Strength and Durability Properties of Wooden Ash Based Concrete
Authors: AL-Kharabsheh Buthainah Nawaf , Arbili Mohamed Moafak , Majdi Ali , Ahmad Jawad , Deifalla Ahmed Farouk , Hakamy A.
Published: October 2022

The partial replacement of cement in concrete with other building materials has come to light because of research on industrial waste and sustainable building practices. Concrete is made more affordable by using such components, and it also helps to ease disposal worries. Ash made by burning wood and other wood products is one example of such a substance. Many researchers focused on the utilization of wooden ash (WA) as a construction material. However, information is scattered, and no one can easily judge the impact of WA on concrete properties which restrict its use. Therefore, a details review is required which collect the past and current progress on WA as a construction material. relevant information. This review aims to collect all the relevant information including the general back of WA, physical and chemical aspects of WA, the impact of WA on concrete fresh properties, strength properties, and durability aspects in addition to microstructure analysis. The results indicate the WA decreased the slump and increased the setting time. Strength and durability properties improved with the substitution of WA due to pozzolanic reaction and micro-filling effects. However, the optimum dose is important. Different research recommends different optimum doses depending on source mix design etc. However, the majority of researcher suggests a 10% optimum substitution of WA. The review also concludes that, although WA has the potential to be used as a concrete ingredient but less researchers focused on WA as compared to other waste materials such as fly ash and silica fume etc.
Synergistic Effects of La and Y on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Cast Al-Si-Cu Alloys
Authors: Shuai Luming , Zou Xiuliang , Rao Yuqiang , Lu Xiaobin , Yan Hong
Published: October 2022

The effects of La and Y on the microstructure and mechanical properties of cast Al-Si-Cu alloys were investigated by X-ray diffractometer (XRD), optical microscope (OM), and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The results indicated that the addition of La and Y had a great effect on the refinement of α-Al grains, the modification of eutectic Si phase, and the reduction of β-Al5FeSi length in Al-Si-Cu alloys. The A380 + 0.6 wt.% La/Y alloy exhibited the best microstructure and mechanical properties. The UTS and EI of the A380 + 0.6 wt.% La/Y alloy were 215.3 MPa and 5.1%, which were 22.9% and 37.8% higher than those of the matrix alloy, respectively. In addition, neither Al11La3 nor Al3Y generated by the addition of La and Y could not serve as the nucleation core of α-Al grains, so the grain refinement of α-Al originated from the growth limitation and constitutional supercooling. Since La and Y promote twinning generation and constitutional supercooling, the eutectic Si phase also changed from stripe-like to short fibrous or even granular and was significantly refined. Furthermore, thermodynamic calculations indicated that the Al11La3 phase was formed first and the Al3Y phase was generated on the Al11La3 phase.
Structural Changes in Metallic Glass-Forming Liquids on Cooling and Subsequent Vitrification in Relationship with Their Properties
Authors: Louzguine-Luzgin D. V.
Published: October 2022

The present review is related to the studies of structural changes observed in metallic glass-forming liquids on cooling and subsequent vitrification in terms of radial distribution function and its analogues. These structural changes are discussed in relationship with liquid’s properties, especially the relaxation time and viscosity. These changes are found to be directly responsible for liquid fragility: deviation of the temperature dependence of viscosity of a supercooled liquid from the Arrhenius equation through modification of the activation energy for viscous flow. Further studies of this phenomenon are necessary to provide direct mathematical correlation between the atomic structure and properties.
Effect of Stray Current on Corrosion and Calcium Ion Corrosion of Concrete Reinforcement
Authors: Yang Weijun , Ye Xin , Li Rongjun , Yang Jianyu
Published: October 2022

The construction of subways, hydroelectric stations and water substations is exposed to stray currents, which can accelerate concrete corrosion. The influence of stray currents on reinforced concrete structures is unclear. In this paper, the influence of concrete strength grade, reinforcement diameter and stray current intensity on the extent of reinforcement corrosion and calcium ion dissolution were investigated, and the damage of reinforcement and calcium ion corrosion to concrete strength was investigated by simulating a stray current environment and conducting an electrified acceleration test. The test results show that the higher the strength grade of concrete, the lower the stray current intensity and the smaller the corrosion rate and calcium ion dissolution rate of reinforcement; with the increase in the diameter of reinforcement the corrosion rate decreases, but the calcium ion dissolution rate is not affected by reinforcement diameter. The damage effect of reinforcement corrosion on concrete compressive strength is more obvious than that of calcium ion corrosion.
Reducing Emissions from Combustion of Grape Residues in Mixtures with Herbaceous Biomass
Authors: Malaťák Jan , Velebil Jan , Malaťáková Jitka , Passian Luboš , Bradna Jiří , Tamelová Barbora , Gendek Arkadiusz , Aniszewska Monika
Published: October 2022

The use of grape residues as a renewable energy source for combustion presents various problems. One of these is the excessive production of carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides. Analyses and combustion tests were performed on white and red grape pomace as well as grape stems. To verify the possibility of a reduction in emissions, straw of Miscanthus sinensis was added to mixtures with red grape pomace. Emission concentrations of carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides were determined on a grate combustion device with a nominal thermal output of 8 kW under steady-state conditions. In addition to these emission concentrations, the excess air factor and the flue gas temperature were monitored. The results show a high energy content in grape residues. In red grape pomace, the gross calorific value of dry matter reached 22.17 MJ kg−1. Unfavourable properties included high ash and nitrogen contents. During combustion tests on all types of grape residue, the emission concentrations of carbon monoxide were above the legal limit for the combustion of solid fuels. The addition of Miscanthus straw improved the behaviour during combustion. The maximum content of grape pomace in the mixture capable of meeting legislative emission requirements was 50% wt.
Materials Perspectives of Integrated Plasmonic Biosensors
Authors: Negm Ayman , Howlader Matiar M. R. , Belyakov Ilya , Bakr Mohamed , Ali Shirook , Irannejad Mehrdad , Yavuz Mustafa
Published: October 2022

With the growing need for portable, compact, low-cost, and efficient biosensors, plasmonic materials hold the promise to meet this need owing to their label-free sensitivity and deep light–matter interaction that can go beyond the diffraction limit of light. In this review, we shed light on the main physical aspects of plasmonic interactions, highlight mainstream and future plasmonic materials including their merits and shortcomings, describe the backbone substrates for building plasmonic biosensors, and conclude with a brief discussion of the factors affecting plasmonic biosensing mechanisms. To do so, we first observe that 2D materials such as graphene and transition metal dichalcogenides play a major role in enhancing the sensitivity of nanoparticle-based plasmonic biosensors. Then, we identify that titanium nitride is a promising candidate for integrated applications with performance comparable to that of gold. Our study highlights the emerging role of polymer substrates in the design of future wearable and point-of-care devices. Finally, we summarize some technical and economic challenges that should be addressed for the mass adoption of plasmonic biosensors. We believe this review will be a guide in advancing the implementation of plasmonics-based integrated biosensors.