bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Persistent Post-Traumatic Headache and Migraine: Pre-Clinical Comparisons
Authors: Capi Matilde , Pomes Leda Marina , Andolina Giulia , Curto Martina , Martelletti Paolo , Lionetto Luana
Published: April 2020

Background: Oftentimes, persistent post traumatic headache (PPTH) and migraine are phenotypically similar and the only clinical feature that differentiate them is the presence of a mild or moderate traumatic brain injury (mTBI). The aim of this study is to describe the differences in brain area and in biochemical cascade after concussion and to define the efficacy and safety of treatments in use. Methods: Sources were chosen in according to the International Classification of Headache Disorder (ICHD) criteria. Results: The articles demonstrated a significant difference between PPTH and migraine regarding static functional connectivity (sFC) and dynamic functional connectivity (dFC) in brain structure that could be used for exploring the pathophysiological mechanisms in PPTH. Many studies described a cascade of neuro-metabolic changes that occur after traumatic brain injury. These variations are associated to the mechanism occurring when developing a PPTH. Conclusions: The state of art of this important topic show how although the mechanisms underlying the development of the two different diseases are different, the treatment of common migraine is efficacious in patients that have developed a post traumatic form.
A Surrogate Model Based on Artificial Neural Network for RF Radiation Modelling with High-Dimensional Data
Authors: Cheng Xi , Henry Clément , Andriulli Francesco P. , Person Christian , Wiart Joe
Published: April 2020

This paper focuses on quantifying the uncertainty in the specific absorption rate values of the brain induced by the uncertain positions of the electroencephalography electrodes placed on the patient’s scalp. To avoid running a large number of simulations, an artificial neural network architecture for uncertainty quantification involving high-dimensional data is proposed in this paper. The proposed method is demonstrated to be an attractive alternative to conventional uncertainty quantification methods because of its considerable advantage in the computational expense and speed.
Automatic Sorting of Dwarf Minke Whale Underwater Images
Authors: Konovalov Dmitry A. , Swinhoe Natalie , Efremova Dina B. , Birtles R. Alastair , Kusetic Martha , Hillcoat Suzanne , Curnock Matthew I. , Williams Genevieve , Sheaves Marcus
Published: April 2020

A predictable aggregation of dwarf minke whales (Balaenoptera acutorostrata subspecies) occurs annually in the Australian waters of the northern Great Barrier Reef in June–July, which has been the subject of a long-term photo-identification study. Researchers from the Minke Whale Project (MWP) at James Cook University collect large volumes of underwater digital imagery each season (e.g., 1.8TB in 2018), much of which is contributed by citizen scientists. Manual processing and analysis of this quantity of data had become infeasible, and Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) offered a potential solution. Our study sought to design and train a CNN that could detect whales from video footage in complex near-surface underwater surroundings and differentiate the whales from people, boats and recreational gear. We modified known classification CNNs to localise whales in video frames and digital still images. The required high classification accuracy was achieved by discovering an effective negative-labelling training technique. This resulted in a less than 1% false-positive classification rate and below 0.1% false-negative rate. The final operation-version CNN-pipeline processed all videos (with the interval of 10 frames) in approximately four days (running on two GPUs) delivering 1.95 million sorted images.
Case, Concord and the Emergence of Default
Authors: López Luis
Published: April 2020

This article provides initial evidence that the head K, which may spell out as case morphology, drives the operations of concord within the noun phrase. Evidence for this claim comes from three code-switching varieties: Basque/Spanish, German/Turkish and Russian/Kazakh. By placing the switch at the border between case morphology and the rest of the noun phrase the properties of K can be isolated and inspected. We find that if K is drawn from the lexicon of a non-concord language, constituents within the noun phrase adopt a default morphology. It is suggested that the data presented in this paper provide evidence for approaches that take Concord to be a form of Agree (probe, goal) and against an approach that takes it to be the result of feature percolation from the bottom up. An analysis of default morphology is proposed that argues that default forms are inserted as vocabulary items in syntactic terminals that, as a result of a failure of Agree, are populated with unvalued features.
Microstructure Characterization of Reversed Transformation in Cryogenically Rolled 22MnB5
Authors: Yao Shengjie , Chen Long , Chu Guannan , Zhao Hongyun , Feng Lei , Wang Guodong
Published: April 2020

Hot stamping is a well-known process to produce structural automotive parts with an excellent strength-to-weight ratio. However, this process is more expensive due to the lower energy efficiency and operating cost of the traditional roller-hearth furnace. Additionally, lower ductility and toughness are commonly recognized as the main disadvantages of the current hot stamped ultra-high-strength parts. Refinement of austenite grains could be a profitable way to improve the strength of hot stamped parts. In this work, the evolution of reversed transformation in asymmetrically cryogenically rolled samples was studied in order to control the austenite. Thermomechanical simulation and heat treatment in the salt bath were used to investigate the reversed transformation process, and the typical microstructures were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Compared with symmetric prerolling, ferrite recrystallization could be remarkably inhibited by asymmetric rolling at the liquid nitrogen temperature (LNT) during the reheating process. Additionally, the nucleation of the austenite inner grains can also be promoted and the dynamics of the reversed transformation accelerated by asymmetric prerolling. Such phenomena might be very useful to refine the parent austenite grains before press hardening and enhance the new hot stamping strategy by partial fast reheating.
Advanced Powder Metallurgy Technologies
Authors: Novák Pavel
Published: April 2020

Powder metallurgy is a group of advanced processes for the synthesis, processing, and shaping of various kinds of materials. Initially inspired by ceramics processing, the methodology comprising of the production of a powder and its transformation to a compact solid product has attracted great attention since the end of World War II. At present, there are many technologies for powder production (e.g., gas atomization of the melt, chemical reduction, milling, and mechanical alloying) and its consolidation (e.g., pressing and sintering, hot isostatic pressing, and spark plasma sintering). The most promising ones can achieve an ultra-fine or nano-grained structure of the powder, and preserve it during consolidation. Among these methods, mechanical alloying and spark plasma sintering play a key role. This Special Issue gives special focus to the advancement of mechanical alloying, spark plasma sintering and self-propagating high-temperature synthesis methods, as well as to the role of these processes in the development of new materials.
Biologically Inspired Collagen/Apatite Composite Biomaterials for Potential Use in Bone Tissue Regeneration—A Review
Authors: Kołodziejska Barbara , Kaflak Agnieszka , Kolmas Joanna
Published: April 2020

Type I collagen and nanocrystalline-substituted hydroxyapatite are the major components of a natural composite—bone tissue. Both of these materials also play a significant role in orthopedic surgery and implantology; however, their separate uses are limited; apatite is quite fragile, while collagen’s mechanical strength is very poor. Therefore, in biomaterial engineering, a combination of collagen and hydroxyapatite is used, which provides good mechanical properties with high biocompatibility and osteoinduction. In addition, the porous structure of the composites enables their use not only as bone defect fillers, but also as a drug release system providing controlled release of drugs directly to the bone. This feature makes biomimetic collagen–apatite composites a subject of research in many scientific centers. The review focuses on summarizing studies on biological activity, tested in vitro and in vivo.
The Different Effects of Organic Amines on Synthetic Metal Phosphites/Phosphates
Authors: Wang Xuelei , Dong Zhaojun , Meng Chao , Wang Wei , Yang Hairui , Zhuo Xizhun , Yang Shaobin
Published: April 2020

Four metal phosphites/phosphates crystal materials C8N4H34Al2P4O18 (1), C3N2H17GaP2O8 (2), H5In2P3O10 (3), and H9In2P3O13 (4) have been solvothermally synthesized by organic amines in the presence of mixed solvents. Structural analyses indicate that compound 1 and 2 show one-dimensional (1D) chain structures; compound 3 and 4 are three-dimensional (3D) inorganic open-framework indium phosphites. Organic amines show different mechanisms in the four compounds. The 2,2′-bipyridine organic amine acts as a template source and it breaks down small molecules, which enter into the structure of compound 1. For compound 2, 1,2-propanediamine has a role as protonated template and it forms a hydrogen bond with the inorganic skeleton structure. As for compound 3 and 4 without the organic template, the benzylamine and 2,2′-bipyridine mainly serve as structure-directing agent. Especially, compound 3 has an odd seven-ring channel, and compound 4 contains 3D intersecting six-ring, eight-ring, and 10-ring channels. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), CHN, inductive coupled plasma (ICP), Infrared (IR), and thermal gravimetric (TG) analyze the four compounds.
L-Box Form Filling of Thixotropic Cementitious Paste and Mortar
Authors: Thiedeitz Mareike , Habib Nasime , Kränkel Thomas , Gehlen Christoph
Published: April 2020

Rheological properties of cementitious pastes and mortar affect the casting, placement, and setting properties of fresh concrete. Fundamental rheological knowledge thus helps in predicting concrete flowability and workability. Empirical equations correlate actual rheological parameters based on physical material characteristics to workability tests. Still, these equations generally only take the dynamic yield stress of the material into account. This is not sufficient for thixotropic cementitious pastes or mortars, which possess structural buildup at rest. Workability predictions regarding the flow of concrete are thus more complicated with thixotropic materials. During form-filling in L-shaped formworks, the flow velocity of concrete slows down, wherefore rheological parameters change with time. At initial fast flow, high shear rates without structural buildup can be assumed. Dynamic yield stress and a steady state viscosity thus are proper parameters for empirical equations describing concrete flowability. During low shear rates, partial structural buildup takes place. Viscosity and yield stress increase due to agglomeration and affect the flowability of concrete tremendously. Rheological parameters of various cementitious pastes and mortars varying in their solid volume fraction and flowability were investigated in a vane-in-cup rheometer. The workability of the same mixtures was investigated by measuring the flow length in an L-shaped formwork. The effect of yield stress, viscosity, and thixotropic structural buildup on flow length was investigated. Subsequently correlations and discrepancies between flowability parameters and workability equations were analyzed.
Effect of Porous Structure on the Microwave Absorption Capacity of Soft Magnetic Connecting Network Ni/Al2O3/Ni Film
Authors: Wei Hu , Cheng Li , Shchukin Dmitry
Published: April 2020

Microwave radar absorbing materials have been the focus of the radar stealth research field. In this study, ceramic structured porous honeycomb-like Al2O3 film was prepared by anodic oxidation, and an Ni layer was deposited on the Al2O3 film via electrodeposition in a neutral environment to form a flower- and grain-like structure in a three-dimensional (3D) network Ni/Al2O3/Ni film. The films both have a through-hole internal structure, soft magnetic properties, and absorb microwaves. The dielectric loss values of two films were little changed, and the maximum microwave absorption values of flower- and grain-like Ni/Al2O3/Ni film were −45.3 and −31.05 dB with relatively wide effective bandwidths, respectively. The porous ceramic structure Al2O3 interlayer prevented the reunion of Ni and isolated the eddy current to improve the microwave absorption properties. The material presented in our paper has good microwave absorption performance with a thin thickness, which indicates the potential for lightweight and efficient microwave absorption applications.
Extremely-Low-Cycle Fatigue Damage for Beam-to-Column Welded Joints Using Structural Details
Authors: Huang Lizhen , Qu Weilian , Zhao Ernian
Published: April 2020

The multiaxial fatigue critical plane method can be used to evaluate the extremely-low-cycle fatigue (ELCF) damage of beam-to-column welded joints in steel frameworks subjected to strong seismic activity. In this paper, fatigue damage models using structural detail parameters are studied. Firstly, the fatigue properties obtained from experiments are adopted to assess ELCF life for steel frameworks. In these experiments, two types of welded specimens, namely, plate butt weld (PB) and cruciform load-carrying groove weld (CLG), are designed according to the structural details of steel beam and box column joints, in which both structural details and welded factors are taken into account. Secondly, experiments are performed on three full-scale steel welded beam-to-column joints to determine the contribution of stress and/or strain to damage parameters. Finally, we introduce a modification of the most popular fatigue damage model of Fatemi and Socie (FS), modified by us in a previous study, for damage evaluation, and compare this with Shang and Wang (SW) in order to examine the applicability of the fatigue properties of PB and CLG. This study shows that the modified FS model using the fatigue properties of CLG can predict the crack initiation life and evaluate the damage of beam-to-column welded joints, and can be subsequently used for further investigation of the damage evolution law.
Immunological Outcomes of Bovine Colostrum Supplementation in Trained and Physically Active People: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Główka Natalia , Durkalec-Michalski Krzysztof , Woźniewicz Małgorzata
Published: April 2020

Bovine colostrum (BC) is a promising natural product applied to improve immunological functions. However, there is very little evidence on the true benefits of BC treatment on the immune function of trained and physically active people; moreover, there is no consensus on the supplementation strategy. For this reason, the aim of this meta-analysis was to quantify the effects of BC supplementation on immunological outcomes in physically active people. Data from 10 randomised controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the effect of BC supplementation in athletes and physically active adults were analysed, involving 239 participants. The results show that BC supplementation has no or a fairly low impact on improving the concentration of serum immunoglobulins (IgA, IgG), lymphocytes and neutrophils, and saliva immunoglobulin (IgA) in athletes and physically active participants. Previous research has shown BC to reduce upper respiratory tract infections; nevertheless, there is a gap of scientific knowledge on the mechanisms underlying these effects. Future RCTs are needed to focus on finding these mechanisms, as well as on preparing a clear consensus on a BC supplementation strategy in trained athletes and the physically active population.
Oleacein and Foam Cell Formation in Human Monocyte-Derived Macrophages: A Potential Strategy against Early and Advanced Atherosclerotic Lesions
Authors: Filipek Agnieszka , Mikołajczyk Tomasz P. , Guzik Tomasz J. , Naruszewicz Marek
Published: April 2020

Background: Oleacein is a secoiridoid group polyphenol found mostly in Olea europea L. and Ligustrum vulgare L. (Oleaceae). The aim of the present study was to investigate a potential role of oleacein in prevention of the foam cell formation. Materials and Methods: Oleacein was isolated from Ligustrum vulgare leaves. Human monocyte-derived macrophages were obtained from monocytes cultured with Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF). Then, cells were incubated with 20 μM or 50 μM of oleacein and with oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) (50 μg/mL). Visualization of lipid deposition within macrophages was carried out using Oil-Red-O. Expression of CD36, Scavenger receptor A1 (SRA1) and Lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor 1 (LOX-1) was determined by Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and by flow cytometry. Apoptosis was determined by flow cytometry using Annexin V assay. STAT3 and Acyl-coenzyme A: cholesterol acyltransferase type 1 (ACAT1) levels were determined by ELISA. P-STAT3, P-JAK1, P-JAK2 expressions were determined by Western blot (WB). Results: Oleacein in dose-dependent manner significantly reduced lipid deposits in macrophages as well as their expression of selected scavenger receptors. The highest decrease of expression was found for CD36 and SRA1 receptors, from above 20% to more than 75% compared to oxLDL and the lowest for LOX-1 receptor, from approx. 8% to approx. 25% compared to oxLDL-stimulated macrophages. Oleacein significantly reduced (2.5-fold) early apoptosis of oxLDL-stimulated macrophages. Moreover, oleacein significantly increased the protein expression of JAK/STAT3 pathway and had no effect on ACAT1 level. Conclusions: Our study demonstrates, for the first time, that oleacein inhibits foam cell formation in human monocyte-derived macrophages and thus can be a valuable tool in the prevention of early and advanced atherosclerotic lesions.
Alginate-Edible Coatings for Application on Wild Andean Blueberries (Vaccinium meridionale Swartz): Effect of the Addition of Nanofibrils Isolated from Cocoa By-Products
Authors: Medina-Jaramillo Carolina , Quintero-Pimiento Carmen , Gómez-Hoyos Catalina , Zuluaga-Gallego Robin , López-Córdoba Alex
Published: April 2020

Edible coatings and films are appealing strategies for the postharvest management of blueberries. In the current work, alginate and alginate/cellulose nanofibril (CNF) edible coatings crosslinked with calcium chloride were developed for application on Andean blueberry (a promissory wild blueberry). Cocoa by-products were valorized through the isolation of their CNFs, and these were incorporated in the edible coatings. Edible coating formulations were based on blends of alginate (2% w/v), CNFs (0%, 0.1%, or 0.3%), glycerol, and water. In addition, stand-alone films were prepared, and their light and water vapor barrier properties were studied before applying the coating on the fruit surface. The results show that the addition of CNFs caused a significant decrease in the transparency and the water vapor permeability of the alginate films. After applying on the Andean blueberry fruits, the alginate and alginate/CNF coatings enhanced the appearance and the firmness of the fruits. Moreover, they significantly reduced the respiration rate and the water loss of the Andean blueberries throughout the 21 days of refrigerated storage. Alginate and alginate/CNFs coatings may be considered a useful alternative for the delay of the postharvest deterioration of Andean blueberries.
Impact of Hydrogen Bonds Limited Dipolar Disorder in High-k Polymer Gate Dielectric on Charge Carrier Transport in OFET
Authors: Paruzel Bartosz , Pfleger Jiří , Brus Jiří , Menšík Miroslav , Piana Francesco , Acharya Udit
Published: April 2020

The paper contributes to the characterization and understanding the mutual interactions of the polar polymer gate dielectric and organic semiconductor in organic field effect transistors (OFETs). It has been shown on the example of cyanoethylated polyvinylalcohol (CEPVA), the high-k dielectric containing strong polar side groups, that the conditions during dielectric layer solidification can significantly affect the charge transport in the semiconductor layer. In contrast to the previous literature we attributed the reduced mobility to the broader distribution of the semiconductor density of states (DOS) due to a significant dipolar disorder in the dielectric layer. The combination of infrared (IR), solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and broadband dielectric (BDS) spectroscopy confirmed the presence of a rigid hydrogen bonds network in the CEPVA polymer. The formation of such network limits the dipolar disorder in the dielectric layer and leads to a significantly narrowed distribution of the density of states (DOS) and, hence, to the higher charge carrier mobility in the OFET active channel made of 6,13-bis(triisopropylsilylethynyl)pentacene. The low temperature drying process of CEPVA dielectric results in the decreased energy disorder of transport states in the adjacent semiconductor layer, which is then similar as in OFETs equipped with the much less polar poly(4-vinylphenol) (PVP). Breaking hydrogen bonds at temperatures around 50 °C results in the gradual disintegration of the stabilizing network and deterioration of the charge transport due to a broader distribution of DOS.
Stress Relaxation and Creep of a Polymer-Aluminum Composite Produced through Selective Laser Sintering
Authors: Bochnia Jerzy , Blasiak Slawomir
Published: April 2020

This article discusses the rheological properties (stress relaxation and creep) of polymer-aluminum composite specimens fabricated through the selective laser sintering (SLS) from a commercially available powder called Alumide. The rheological data predicted using the Maxwell–Wiechert and the Kelvin–Voigt models for stress relaxation and creep, respectively, were in agreement with the experimental results. The elastic moduli and dynamic viscosities were determined with high accuracy for both models. The findings of this study can be useful to designers and users of SLS prints made from the material tested.
Highly Hydrophobic Cotton Fabrics Modified by Poly(methylhydrogen)siloxane and Fluorinated Olefin: Characterization and Applications
Authors: Lin Huiping , Hu Qingjian , Liao Tianyu , Zhang Xinxiang , Yang Wenbin , Cai Shuang
Published: April 2020

Highly hydrophobic cotton fabrics were obtained with poly(methylhydrogen)siloxane (PMHS) and a further fluorinated olefin modification. The chemical structures and microstructures of PMHS-modified cotton fabrics were characterized, and application of the resultant cotton fabrics in stain resistance and oil–water separation was demonstrated. PMHS chains with very low surface energy were grafted onto cotton fabric by the dehydrogenation reaction between –Si–H of PMHS and –OH groups of cotton fabric at room temperature. The water contact angle of PMHS-modified cotton fabric was 141.7°, which provided the modified cotton fabric with good stain resistance to waterborne pollutants. The separation efficiency of diesel from water was higher than 92% for 20 repeatable separation cycles. A further improvement in stain resistance to oil was also demonstrated by a further addition reaction of 1H,1H,2H-perfluoro-1-decene with PMHS-modified cotton fabric.
Use of Data Mining Techniques for the Prediction of Surface Roughness of Printed Parts in Polylactic Acid (PLA) by Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM): A Practical Application in Frame Glasses Manufacturing
Authors: Molero Esther , Fernández Juan Jesús , Rodríguez-Alabanda Oscar , Guerrero-Vaca Guillermo , Romero Pablo E.
Published: April 2020

In the present work, ten data mining algorithms have been used to generate models capable of predicting the surface roughness of parts printed on polylactic acid (PLA) by using fused deposition modeling (FDM). The models have been trained using experimental data measured on 27 horizontal (XY) and 27 vertical (XZ) specimens, printed using different values for the parameters studied (layer height, extrusion temperature, print speed, print acceleration and flow). The models generated by multilayer perceptron (MLP) and logistic model trees (LMT) have obtained the best results in a cross-validation. Although it does not obtain such optimal results, the J48 algorithm (C4.5) allows the generation of models in the form of a decision tree. These trees permit to determine which print parameters have an influence on the surface roughness. For XY specimens, the surface roughness measured in the direction parallel to the extrusion path (Ra,0,XY ) depends on the flow, the print temperature and the layer height; in the direction perpendicular to the extrusion path, the surface roughness (Ra,90,XY) depends only on the flow. For XZ specimens, the surface roughness measured in the direction parallel to the extrusion path (Ra,0,XZ) depends only on the print speed; in the direction perpendicular to the extrusion path (Ra,90,XZ), it depends on the layer height and the extrusion temperature. According to the study carried out, the most suitable set up provides values of Ra,0,XY, Ra,90,XY, Ra,0,XZ and Ra,90,XZ equal to 0.46, 1.18, 0.45 and 11.54, respectively. A practical application of this work is the manufacture of PLA frame glasses using FDM.
Thermochromic Fibers via Electrospinning
Authors: Nguyen Jimmy , Stwodah Ratib M. , Vasey Christopher L. , Rabatin Briget E. , Atherton Benjamin , D’Angelo Paola A. , Swana Kathleen W. , Tang Christina
Published: April 2020

Cholesteryl ester liquid crystals exhibit thermochromic properties related to the existence of a twisted nematic phase. We formulate ternary mixtures of cholesteryl benzoate (CB), cholesteryl pelargonate (CP), and cholesteryl oleyl carbonate (COC) to achieve thermochromic behavior. We aim to achieve thermochromic fibers by incorporating the liquid crystal formulations into electrospun fibers. Two methods of incorporating the liquid crystal (LC) are compared: (1) blend electrospinning and (2) coaxial electrospinning using the same solvent system for the liquid crystal. For blend electrospinning, intermolecular interactions seem to be important in facilitating fiber formation since addition of LC can suppress bead formation. Coaxial electrospinning produces fibers with higher nominal fiber production rates (g/hr) and with higher nominal LC content in the fiber (wt. LC/wt. polymer assuming all of the solvent evaporates) but larger fiber size distributions as quantified by the coefficient of variation in fiber diameter than blend electrospinning with a single nozzle. Importantly, our proof-of-concept experiments demonstrate that coaxially electrospinning with LC and solvent in the core preserves the thermochromic properties of the LC so that thermochromic fibers are achieved.
Human Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells-Incorporated Silk Fibroin as a Potential Bio-Scaffold in Guiding Bone Regeneration
Authors: Sartika Dewi , Wang Chih-Hsin , Wang Ding-Han , Cherng Juin-Hong , Chang Shu-Jen , Fan Gang-Yi , Wang Yi-Wen , Lee Chian-Her , Hong Po-Da , Wang Chih-Chien
Published: April 2020

Recently, stem cell-based bone tissue engineering (BTE) has been recognized as a preferable and clinically significant strategy for bone repair. In this study, a pure 3D silk fibroin (SF) scaffold was fabricated as a BTE material using a lyophilization method. We aimed to investigate the efficacy of the SF scaffold with and without seeded human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hASCs) in facilitating bone regeneration. The effectiveness of the SF-hASCs scaffold was evaluated based on physical characterization, biocompatibility, osteogenic differentiation in vitro, and bone regeneration in critical rat calvarial defects in vivo. The SF scaffold demonstrated superior biocompatibility and significantly promoted osteogenic differentiation of hASCs in vitro. At six and twelve weeks postimplantation, micro-CT showed no statistical difference in new bone formation amongst all groups. However, histological staining results revealed that the SF-hASCs scaffold exhibited a better bone extracellular matrix deposition in the defect regions compared to other groups. Immunohistochemical staining confirmed this result; expression of osteoblast-related genes (BMP-2, COL1a1, and OCN) with the SF-hASCs scaffold treatment was remarkably positive, indicating their ability to achieve effective bone remodeling. Thus, these findings demonstrate that SF can serve as a potential carrier for stem cells, to be used as an osteoconductive bioscaffold for BTE applications.
Engineering Composites Made from Wood and Chicken Feather Bonded with UF Resin Fortified with Wollastonite: A Novel Approach
Authors: Taghiyari Hamid R. , Majidi Roya , Esmailpour Ayoub , Samadi Younes Sarvari , Jahangiri Asghar , Papadopoulos Antonios N.
Published: April 2020

Wood-composite panel factories are in shortage of raw materials; therefore, finding new sources of fibers is vital for sustainable production. The effects of chicken feathers, as a renewable source of natural fibers, on the physicomechanical properties of medium-density fiberboard (MDF) and particleboard panels were investigated here. Wollastonite was added to resin to compensate possible negative effects of chicken feathers. Only feathers of the bodies of chickens were added to composite matrix at 5% and 10% content, based on the dry weight of the raw material, particles or fibers. Results showed significant negative effects of 10%-feather content on physical and mechanical properties. However, feather content of 5% showed some promising results. Addition of wollastonite to resin resulted in the improvement of some physical and mechanical properties. Wollastonite acted as reinforcing filler in resin and improved some of the properties; therefore, future studies should be carried out on the reduction of resin content. Moreover, density functional theory (DFT) demonstrated the formation of new bonds between wollastonite and carbohydrate polymers in the wood cell wall. It was concluded that chicken feathers have potential in wood-composite panel production.
Highly Deformable Porous Electromagnetic Wave Absorber Based on Ethylene–Propylene–Diene Monomer/Multiwall Carbon Nanotube Nanocomposites
Authors: Bizhani Hasti , Katbab Ali Asghar , Lopez-Hernandez Emil , Miranda Jose Miguel , Verdejo Raquel
Published: April 2020

The need for electromagnetic interference (EMI) shields has risen over the years as the result of our digitally and highly connected lifestyle. This work reports on the development of one such shield based on vulcanized rubber foams. Nanocomposites of ethylene–propylene–diene monomer (EPDM) rubber and multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were prepared via hot compression molding using a chemical blowing agent as foaming agent. MWCNTs accelerated the cure and led to high shear-thinning behavior, indicative of the formation of a 3D interconnected physical network. Foamed nanocomposites exhibited lower electrical percolation threshold than their solid counterparts. Above percolation, foamed nanocomposites displayed EMI absorption values of 28–45 dB in the frequency range of the X-band. The total EMI shielding efficiency of the foams was insignificantly affected by repeated bending with high recovery behavior. Our results highlight the potential of cross-linked EPDM/MWCNT foams as a lightweight EM wave absorber with high flexibility and deformability.
Novel Mixed Matrix Sodium Alginate–Fullerenol Membranes: Development, Characterization, and Study in Pervaporation Dehydration of Isopropanol
Authors: Dmitrenko Mariia , Liamin Vladislav , Kuzminova Anna , Mazur Anton , Lahderanta Erkki , Ermakov Sergey , Penkova Anastasia
Published: April 2020

Novel mixed matrix dense and supported membranes based on biopolymer sodium alginate (SA) modified by fullerenol were developed. Two kinds of SA–fullerenol membranes were investigated: untreated and cross-linked by immersing the dry membranes in 1.25 wt % calcium chloride (CaCl2) in water for 10 min. The structural and physicochemical characteristics features of the SA–fullerenol composite were investigated by Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopic methods, scanning electron (SEM) and atomic force (AFM) microscopies, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and swelling experiments. Transport properties were evaluated in pervaporation dehydration of isopropanol in a wide concentration range. It was found that the developed supported cross-linked SA-5/PANCaCl2 membrane (modified by 5 wt % fullerenol) possessed the best transport properties (the highest permeation fluxes 0.64–2.9 kg/(m2 h) and separation factors 26–73,326) for the pervaporation separation of the water–isopropanol mixture in the wide concentration range (12–90 wt % water) at 22 °C and is suitable for the promising application in industry.
Faith Manifest: Spiritual and Mindfulness Tourism in Chiang Mai, Thailand
Authors: Choe Jaeyeon , O’ Regan Michael
Published: April 2020

From books to movies, the media is now flush with spiritual and wellness tourist-related images, films, and fiction (which are primarily produced in the West) about Southeast Asia. Combined with the positive effects of spiritual practices, greater numbers of tourists are travelling to Southeast Asia for mindfulness, yoga, and other spiritual pursuits. Influenced by popular mass media coverage, such as Hollywood movies and literary bestsellers like Eat Pray Love (2006) and tourism imaginaries about particular peoples and places, spiritual tourists are visiting Southeast Asia in increasing numbers. They travel to learn about and practice mindfulness, so as to recharge their batteries, achieve spiritual fulfillment, enhance their spiritual well-being, and find a true self. However, there is a notable lack of scholarly work around the nature and outcomes of spiritual tourism in the region. Owing to its Buddhist temples, cultural heritage, religious history, infrastructure, and perceived safety, Chiang Mai in Thailand, in particular, has become a major spiritual tourism destination. Based on participant observation including informal conversations, and 10 semi-structured interviews in Chiang Mai during two summers in 2016 and 2018, our research explored why Western tourists travel to Chiang Mai to engage in mindfulness practices regardless of their religious affiliation. We explored their faith in their spiritual practice in Chiang Mai. Rather than the faith implied in religion, this faith refers to trust or confidence in something. Interestingly, none of the informants identified themselves as Buddhist even though many had practiced Buddhist mindfulness for years. They had faith that mindfulness would resolve problems, such as depression and anxiety, following life events such as divorces, deaths in family, drug abuse, or at least help free them from worries. They noted that mindfulness practices were a constructive means of dealing with negative life events. This study found that the informants sought to embed mindfulness and other spiritual practices into the fabric of their everyday life. Their faith in mindfulness led them to a destination where Buddhist heritage, history, and culture are concentrated but also consumed. Whilst discussing the preliminary findings through a critical lens, the research recommends future research pathways.
The Sikh Gender Construction and Use of Agency in Spain: Negotiations and Identity (Re)Constructions in the Diaspora
Authors: Santos-Fraile Sandra
Published: April 2020

For decades, Sikhs have made the choice to migrate to the United Kingdom (UK), the United States of America (USA), or Canada, as these countries are held in high esteem by Sikh communities and appear to afford prestige in socio-cultural terms to those who settle in them. However, changes in border policies (among other considerations such as the greater difficulty of establishing themselves in other countries, the opening of borders by regularization processes in Spain, commercial business purposes, or political reasons) have compelled Sikh migrants to diversify their destinations, which now include many European countries, Spain among them. The first generation of Sikhs arrived in Spain as part of this search for new migratory routes, and there are now sizable Sikh communities settled in different parts of this country. All migrants need to follow a process of adaptation to their new living environment. Moreover, a novel living context may offer new possibilities for migrants to (re)negotiate old identities and create new ones, both at individual and collective levels. This article will explore a case study of a Sikh community in Barcelona to reflect on the forms in which Sikh men and women perceive, question, and manage their identity and their lives in this new migratory context in Spain. The present paper argues that adaptation to the new place implies identity negotiations that include the redefinition of gender roles, changes in the management of body and appearance, and, most particularly, the emergence of new forms of agency among young Sikh women. In addition, we argue that new forms of female agency are made possible not only by the opportunities offered by the new context, but also emerge as a reaction against the many pressures experienced by the young women and exerted by their male counterparts in Sikh communities, as the latter push against the loss of traditional values.
Conversion of Deoxynivalenol-3-Glucoside to Deoxynivalenol during Chinese Steamed Bread Processing
Authors: Zhang Huijie , Wu Li , Li Weixi , Zhang Yan , Li Jingmei , Hu Xuexu , Sun Lijuan , Du Wenming , Wang Bujun
Published: April 2020

We reported the conversion of deoxynivalenol-3-glucoside (D3G) to deoxynivalenol (DON) during Chinese steamed bread (CSB) processing by artificial D3G contamination. Meanwhile, the effects of enzymes in wheat flour and those produced from yeast, along with the two main components in wheat flour—wheat starch and wheat gluten—on the conversion profiles of D3G were evaluated. The results showed D3G could convert to DON during CSB processing, and the conversion began with dough making and decreased slightly after fermentation and steaming. However, there was no significant difference in three stages. When yeast was not added, or enzyme-deactivated wheat flour was used to simulate CSB process, and whether yeast was added or not, D3G conversion could be observed, and the conversion was significantly higher after dough making. Likewise, D3G converted to DON when wheat starch and wheat gluten were processed to CSB, and the conversion in wheat starch was higher.
Toxicity of Carlina Oxide—A Natural Polyacetylene from the Carlina acaulis Roots—In Vitro and in Vivo Study
Authors: Wnorowski Artur , Wnorowska Sylwia , Wojas-Krawczyk Kamila , Grenda Anna , Staniak Michał , Michalak Agnieszka , Woźniak Sylwia , Matosiuk Dariusz , Biała Grażyna , Wójciak Magdalena , Sowa Ireneusz , Krawczyk Paweł , Strzemski Maciej
Published: April 2020

There are several reports indicating that the roots of the Carlina acaulis L. used to be commonly applied as a treatment measure in skin diseases and as an antiparasitic agent, starting from antiquity to the 19th century; however, nowadays, it has lost its importance. Currently, numerous studies are being conducted assessing the possibility of reintroducing C. acaulis-derived extracts to phytotherapy. Determining the safety profile of the main constituents of the plant material is crucial for achieving this goal. Here, we aimed to determine the toxicity profile of carlina oxide, one of the most abundant components of the C. acaulis root extract. We obtained the carlina oxide by distillation of C. acaulis roots in the Deryng apparatus. The purity of the standard was evaluated using GC-MS, and the identity was confirmed by IR, Raman, and NMR spectroscopy. In vitro cytotoxicity was assessed using a panel of human cell lines of skin origin, including BJ normal fibroblasts and UACC-903, UACC-647, and C32 melanoma cells. This was accompanied by an in vivo zebrafish acute toxicity test (ZFET). In vitro studies showed a toxic effect of carlina oxide, as demonstrated by an induction of apoptosis and necrosis in both normal and melanoma cells. Decreased expression of AKT kinase and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) was noted in the UACC-647 melanoma cell line. It was also observed that carlina oxide modified the expression of programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) in tested cell lines. Carlina oxide exhibited high in vivo toxicity, with LC50 = 10.13 µg/mL upon the 96 h of exposure in the ZFET test. Here, we demonstrate that carlina oxide displays toxic effects to cells in culture and to living organisms. The data indicate that C. acaulis-based extracts considered for therapeutic use should be completely deprived of carlina oxide.
Talkin’ Toxins: From Coley’s to Modern Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Carlson Robert D. , Flickinger John C. , Snook Adam E.
Published: April 2020

The ability of the immune system to precisely target and eliminate aberrant or infected cells has long been studied in the field of infectious diseases. Attempts to define and exploit these potent immunological processes in the fight against cancer has been a longstanding effort dating back over 100 years to when Dr. William Coley purposefully infected cancer patients with a cocktail of heat-killed bacteria to stimulate anti-cancer immune processes. Although the field of cancer immunotherapy has been dotted with skepticism at times, the success of immune checkpoint inhibitors and recent FDA approvals of autologous cell therapies have pivoted immunotherapy to center stage as one of the most promising strategies to treat cancer. This review aims to summarize historic milestones throughout the field of cancer immunotherapy as well as highlight current and promising immunotherapies in development.
HIV Reactivation in Latently Infected Cells with Virological Synapse-Like Cell Contact
Authors: Okutomi Toshiki , Minakawa Satoko , Hirota Riku , Katagiri Koko , Morikawa Yuko
Published: April 2020

HIV reactivation from latency is induced by cytokines but also by cell contact with other cells. To better understand this, J1.1 cells, a latent HIV-1-infected Jurkat derivative, were cocultured with its parental Jurkat. J1.1 cells became p17MA-positive and produced a high level of HIV p24CA antigen, only when they were cocultured with stimulated Jurkat with cell-to-cell contact. In contrast, very little p24CA was produced when they were cocultured without cell contact. Similar results were obtained when latent ACH-2 and its parental A3.01 cells were cocultured. Confocal microscopy revealed that not only HIV-1 p17MA and gp120Env but also LFA-1, CD81, CD59, and TCR CD3 accumulated at the cell contact site, suggesting formation of the virological synapse-like structure. LFA-1–ICAM-1 interaction was involved in the cell-to-cell contact. When J1.1 was cocultured with TCR-deficient Jurkat, the p17MA-positive rate was significantly lower, although the cell-to-cell contact was not impaired. Quantitative proteomics identified 54 membrane molecules, one of which was MHC class I, that accumulated at the cell contact site. Reactivation from latency was also influenced by the presence of stromal cells. Our study indicated that latent HIV-1 in J1.1/ACH-2 cells was efficiently reactivated by cell-to-cell contact with stimulated parental cells, accompanying the virological synapse-like structure.
Application of Adaptive Evolution to Improve the Stability of Bacteriophages during Storage
Authors: Kering Kelvin K. , Zhang Xiaoxu , Nyaruaba Raphael , Yu Junping , Wei Hongping
Published: April 2020

Phage stability is important for the successful application of bacteriophages as alternative antibacterial agents. Considering that temperature is a critical factor in phage stability, this study aimed to explore the possibility of improving long-term phage stability through adaptive evolution to elevated temperature. Evolution of three wild-type ancestral phages (Myoviridae phage Wc4 and Podoviridae phages CX5 and P-PSG-11) was induced by subjecting the phages to heat treatment at 60 °C for five cycles. The adapted phages showed better stability than the wild-type ancestral phages when subjected to heat treatment at 60 °C for 1 h and after 60 days of storage at 37 °C. However, the adapted phages could not withstand thermal treatment at 70 °C for 1 h. The infectivity and the lytic properties of the phages were not changed by the evolution process. Whole-genome sequencing revealed that single substitutions in the tail tubular proteins were the only changes observed in the genomes of the adapted phages. This study demonstrates that adaptive evolution could be used as a general method for enhancing the thermal stability of phages without affecting their lytic activity. Sequencing results showed that bacteriophages may exist as a population with minor heterogeneous mutants, which might be important to understand the ecology of phages in different environments.
An MPC-Enabled SWMM Implementation of the Astlingen RTC Benchmarking Network
Authors: Sun Congcong , Lorenz Svensen Jan , Borup Morten , Puig Vicenç , Cembrano Gabriela , Vezzaro Luca
Published: April 2020

The advanced control of urban drainage systems (UDS) has great potential in reducing pollution to the receiving waters by optimizing the operations of UDS infrastructural elements. Existing controls vary in complexity, including local and global strategies, Real-Time Control (RTC) and Model Predictive Control (MPC). Their results are, however, site-specific, hindering a direct comparison of their performance. Therefore, the working group ‘Integral Real-Time Control’ of the German Water Association (DWA) developed the Astlingen benchmark network, which has been implemented in conceptual hydrological models and applied to compare RTC strategies. However, the level of detail of such implementations is insufficient for testing more complex MPC strategies. In order to provide a benchmark for MPC, this paper presents: (1) The implementation of the conceptual Astlingen system in an open-source hydrodynamic model (EPA-SWMM), and (2) the application of an MPC strategy to the developed SWMM model. The MPC strategy was tested against traditional and well-established local and global RTC approaches, demonstrating how the proposed benchmark system can be used to test and compare complex control strategies.
Correction: Sammer, M., et al. Strong Gradients in Weak Magnetic Fields Induce DOLLOP Formation in Tap Water. Water 2016, 8, 79
Authors: Sammer Martina , Kamp Cees , Paulitsch-Fuchs Astrid H. , Wexler Adam D. , Buisman Cees J. N. , Fuchs Elmar C.
Published: April 2020

The authors wish to make the following corrections to this paper [1]: In all instances mentioning “2 kG·m−1”, these gradients should be replaced by “770 G·m−1 (WCM 62081992) and 740 G·m−1 (WCM 62083545)”: Abstract, page 1, line 4; Chapter 1 [...]
A Rentier State under Blockade: Qatar’s Water-Energy-Food Predicament from Energy Abundance and Food Insecurity to a Silent Water Crisis
Authors: Hussein Hussam , Lambert Laurent
Published: April 2020

This article investigates Qatar’s sustainability crisis of the high levels of water, electricity and food use. The high levels of consumption have been enabled by Qatar’s significant hydrocarbons wealth, a generous rentier state’s redistributive water governance, and structural dependence on imported food and food production subsidies. The water crisis is silent because it does not generate supply disruptions nor any public discontentment. The geopolitical blockade Qatar is experiencing sparked discussions in policy circles on the best ways to ensure food security, but has only exacerbated its water insecurity. The blockade makes more urgent than ever the necessity to maximize and increase synergies among different sectors.