bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Execution Plan Control in Dynamic Coalition of Robots with Smart Contracts and Blockchain
Authors: Teslya Nikolay , Potryasaev Semyon
Published: January 2020

The paper presents an approach of the blockchain and smart contracts utilization for dynamic robot coalition creation. The coalition is forming for solving complex tasks in industry applications that requires sequential united actions from the several robots. The main idea is that the process is split into two stages: scheduling and dynamic execution. On the scheduling stage, the coalition is defined based on the correlation of existing tasks and robot equipment, and the execution plan is formed and stored in smart contracts. The second stage is the plan execution. During this stage, smart contract controls how each robot solves its sub-task and whether it solves the sub-task due to the planned moment of time. In case of any deviation from the plan, smart contacts will provide a solution for returning to the plan or for changing the coalition composition with new robots and an execution plan. The prototype for execution control system has been developed based on the Hyperledger Fabric platform.
Randomised Clinical Trial: Calorie Restriction Regimen with Tomato Juice Supplementation Ameliorates Oxidative Stress and Preserves a Proper Immune Surveillance Modulating Mitochondrial Bioenergetics of T-Lymphocytes in Obese Children Affected by Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)
Authors: Negri Rossella , Trinchese Giovanna , Carbone Fortunata , Caprio Maria Grazia , Stanzione Giovanna , di Scala Carmen , Micillo Teresa , Perna Francesco , Tarotto Luca , Gelzo Monica , Cavaliere Gina , Spagnuolo Maria Immacolata , Corso Gaetano , Mattace Raso Giuseppina , Matarese Giuseppe , Mollica Maria Pina , Greco Luigi , Iorio Raffaele
Published: January 2020

Fatty liver disease is a serious complication of childhood obesity. Calorie-restricted regimen (RCR) is one of the effective therapy for this condition. Aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of lycopene-rich tomato sauce with oregano and basil extracts in obese children with fatty liver on RCR. 61 obese children with fatty liver were enrolled, 52 completed the study. A randomized cross over clinical trial was performed. Participants were assigned to RCR alone or with a supplement of lycopene-rich tomato juice for 60 days; subsequently, the groups were switched to the alternative regimen for the next 60 days. Reduction in BMI, HOMA-IR, cholesterol, triglycerides, liver size, and steatosis was more profound in tomato-supplemented group. Leptin decreased in both groups whereas adiponectin raised only after tomato supplementation. RCR is associated with the impaired engagement of T-cells glycolysis and proliferation, tomato-supplementation resulted in glycolytic metabolic activation of T-cells. Tomato juice ameliorates glucose and lipid metabolism in obese children, improve oxidative and inflammatory state and modulates the mitochondrial metabolism of T-cells contributing to a maintenance of a proper immune surveillance in children, impaired by RCR. The addition of tomato to RCR could be considered a protective and preventive support to obese child.
Phase I Study of a B Cell-Based and Monocyte-Based Immunotherapeutic Vaccine, BVAC-C in Human Papillomavirus Type 16- or 18-Positive Recurrent Cervical Cancer
Authors: Choi Chel Hun , Choi Hyun Jin , Lee Jeong-Won , Kang Eun-Suk , Cho Duck , Park Byung Kwan , Kim Yong-Man , Kim Dae-Yeon , Seo Hyungseok , Park Myunghwan , Kim Wuhyun , Choi Ki-Young , Oh Taegwon , Kang Chang-Yuil , Kim Byoung-Gie
Published: January 2020

BVAC-C is a B cell-based and monocyte-based immuno-therapeutic vaccine transfected with a recombinant human papillomavirus (HPV) 16/18 E6/E7 gene and loaded with alpha-galactosyl ceramide, which is a natural killer T cell ligand. This phase I study sought to determine the tolerability and immunogenicity of BVAC-C in platinum-resistant recurrent cervical cancer patients. Patients with HPV 16-positive or 18-positive recurrent or persistent cervical cancer who had received at least one prior platinum-based combination chemotherapy were enrolled. BVAC-C was injected intravenously three times every four weeks, and dose escalation was planned in a three-patient cohort design at doses of 1 × 107, 4 × 107, or 1 × 108 cells/dose. Eleven patients were enrolled, and six (55%) patients had received two or more lines of platinum-based chemotherapy prior to enrollment. Treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) were observed in 21 cycles. Most TRAEs were mild fever (n = 6.55%) or myalgia (n = 4.36%). No dose-limiting toxicities occurred. The overall response rate was 11% among nine patients evaluable, and the duration of response was 10 months. Five patients (56%) achieved a stable disease for 4.2–11 months as their best overall response. The median progression-free survival in all patients was 6.8 months (95% CI, 3.2 to infinite months), and the overall survival rate at 6 and 12 months was 89% (95% CI, 71 to 100%) and 65% (95% CI, 39 to 100%), respectively. BVAC-C induced the activation of natural killer T cells, natural killer cells, and HPV 16/18 E6/E7-specific T cells upon vaccination in all patients evaluated. BVAC-C was well tolerated and demonstrated a durable anti-tumor activity with an immune response in HPV 16-positive or 18-positive recurrent cervical carcinoma patients. A Phase 2 efficacy trial is currently underway.
Effects of Soil Bund and Stone-Faced Soil Bund on Soil Physicochemical Properties and Crop Yield Under Rain-Fed Conditions of Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Guadie Mulat , Molla Eyayu , Mekonnen Mulatie , Cerdà Artemi
Published: January 2020

Research-based evidence on the effects of soil and water conservation practices (SWCPs) on soil physicochemical properties and crop yield is vital either to adopt the practices or design alternative land management strategies. Thus, this study was conducted to evaluate the effects of about 10-year-old soil bund (SB) and stone-faced soil bund (SFSB) structures on selected soil physicochemical properties, slope gradient, barley grain yield, and yield components in the Lole watershed, in the northwest highlands of Ethiopia. The experiment consisted of three treatments: (i) fields treated with SB, (ii) fields treated with SFSB, and (iii) fields without conservation practices (control) with three replications at three slope classes. A total of 27 composite soil samples from 0 to 20 cm depth and barley grain yield samples from 27 locations were collected. The soil samples were analyzed for bulk density, soil texture, porosity, soil reaction, cation exchange capacity, organic carbon, total nitrogen, available phosphorous, and potassium. Barley grain yield was analyzed using different agronomic parameters. The result indicated that SB and SFSB positively influenced the physicochemical properties of soils and barley grain yield. The interslope gradient between the successive SBs and SFSBs was reducing. Moreover, the untreated fields showed significantly lower barley grain yield, plant height, and straw biomass. Hence, SB and SFSB practices were found to be effective in changing slope gradient, improving soil fertility, and increasing crop yield. Therefore, this finding is vital to create awareness and convince farmers to construct SWCPs on their farmlands for sustainable land management.
Low Cycle Fatigue Properties of Sc-Modified AA2519-T62 Extrusion
Authors: Kosturek Robert , Śnieżek Lucjan , Torzewski Janusz , Wachowski Marcin
Published: January 2020

This investigation presents the results of research on low cycle fatigue properties of Sc-modified AA2519-T62 extrusion. The basic mechanical properties of the investigated alloy have been established in the tensile test. The low cycle fatigue testing has been performed on five different levels of total strain amplitude: 0.4%; 0.5%; 0.6%; 0.7% and 0.8% with cycle asymmetry coefficient R = 0.1. For each level of total strain amplitude, the graphs of variations in stress amplitude and plastic strain amplitude in the number of cycles have been presented. The obtained results allowed to establish Ramberg-Osgood and Manson-Coffin-Basquin relationships. The established values of the cyclic strength coefficient and cyclic strain hardening exponent equal to k’ = 1518.1 MPa and n’ = 0.1702. Based on the Manscon-Coffin-Basquin equation, the values of the following parameters have been established: the fatigue strength coefficient σ’f = 1489.8 MPa, the fatigue strength exponent b = −0.157, the fatigue ductility coefficient ε’f = 0.4931 and the fatigue ductility exponent c = −1.01. The fatigue surfaces of samples tested on 0.4%, 0.6% and 0.8% of total strain amplitude have been subjected to scanning electron microscopy observations. The scanning electron microscopy observations of the fatigue surfaces revealed the presence of cracks in striations in the surrounding area with a high concentration of precipitates. It has been observed that larger Al2Cu precipitates exhibit a higher tendency to fracture than smaller precipitates having a higher concentration of scandium and zirconium.
Experimental Investigation of Hybrid Carbon Nanotubes and Graphite Nanoplatelets on Rheology, Shrinkage, Mechanical, and Microstructure of SCCM
Authors: Farooq Furqan , Akbar Arslan , Khushnood Rao Arsalan , Muhammad Waqas Latif Baloch , Rehman Sardar Kashif Ur , Javed Muhammad Faisal
Published: January 2020

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and graphite nanoplatelets (GNPs) belong to the family of graphite nanomaterials (GNMs) and are promising candidates for enhancing properties of cementitious matrix. However, the problem lies with their improper dispersion. In this paper graphite nanoplatelets are used with carbon nanotubes for dispersion facilitation of CNTs in cement mortar. The intended role is to use the GNPs particles for dispersion of CNTs and to investigate the synergistic effect of resulting nano-intruded mortar. Mechanical properties such as flexure and compressive strength have been studied along with volumetric stability, rheology, and workability. Varying dosages of CNTs to GNPs have been formulated and were analyzed. The hybrid use of CNTs-GNPs shows promise. Scanning electron microscopy reveals that hybrid CNTs/GNPs are well-suited for use in cement mortar composite performing a dual function.
Characterization of Corrosion Behavior of CLF-1 in Liquid Lithium Using Calibration-Free Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy in Depth Profile Analysis
Authors: Cao Zhi , An Yongtao , Wang Xianglin , Chen Chang’an , Li Ying
Published: January 2020

It is important to get fast and quantitative compositional depth profiles for the boundary layer of the corroded specimen in order to understand the corrosion process and mechanism due to liquid lithium induced corrosion problems to structural material of fusion reactors. In this work, calibration-free laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (CF-LIBS) is introduced to investigate the compatibility of CLF-1(China low-activation Ferritic steel) exposed in liquid lithium at 500 °C for 500 h. The results show that CF-LIBS constitutes an effective technique to observe the corrosion layer of specimens which are non-uniform and the elements of matrix show gradient distribution from the boundary to the inner layer. The concentration was 82–95 wt.% Fe, 5–12 wt.% Cr, 0.45–0.85 wt.% Mn, 1.6–1.1 wt.% W, 0.11–0.16 wt.% V, and <0.2 wt.% Li along the longitudinal corrosion depth for the corrode CLF-1. The results reveal the quantitative elemental variation trend of CLF-1 in the lithium corrosion process and indicate that the CF-LIBS approach can be applied to the analysis of composition in multi-element materials.
Reducing Yield Asymmetry between Tension and Compression by Fabricating ZK60/WE43 Bimetal Composites
Authors: Zhao Kangning , Xu Dexing , Song Xiao , Ma Yingzhong , Li Hongxiang , Zhang Jishan , Chen Daolun
Published: January 2020

In this study ZK60/WE43 bimetal composite rods were manufactured by a special method of hot diffusion and co-extrusion. Interface microstructure, deformation mechanism, and yield asymmetry between tension and compression for the composite rods were systematically investigated. It was observed that the salient deformation mechanism of the ZK60 constituent was {10-12}<−1011> extension twinning in compression and prismatic slip in tension, and different deformation modes resulted in yield asymmetry between tension and compression. In contrast, the WE43 constituent tends to be more isotropic due to grain refinement, texture weakening, solid-solution and precipitation strengthening, which were deformed via basal slip, prismatic slip, and {10-12}<−1011> extension twinning in both tension and compression. Surprisingly, it was found that yield asymmetry between tension and compression for the ZK60/WE43 composite rods along the extrusion direction was effectively reduced with a compression-to-tension ratio of ~0.9. The strongly bonded interface acting as a stress transfer medium for the ZK60 sleeve and WE43 core exhibited the coordinated deformation behavior. This finding provides an effective method to decrease the yield asymmetry between tension and compression in the extruded magnesium alloys.
Comultiplications on the Localized Spheres and Moore Spaces
Authors: Lee Dae-Woong
Published: January 2020

Any nilpotent CW-space can be localized at primes in a similar way to the localization of a ring at a prime number. For a collection P of prime numbers which may be empty and a localization X P of a nilpotent CW-space X at P , we let | C ( X ) | and | C ( X P ) | be the cardinalities of the sets of all homotopy comultiplications on X and X P , respectively. In this paper, we show that if | C ( X ) | is finite, then | C ( X ) | ≥ | C ( X P ) | , and if | C ( X ) | is infinite, then | C ( X ) | = | C ( X P ) | , where X is the k-fold wedge sum ⋁ i = 1 k S n i or Moore spaces M ( G , n ) . Moreover, we provide examples to concretely determine the cardinality of homotopy comultiplications on the k-fold wedge sum of spheres, Moore spaces, and their localizations.
Is There an Effect of Methyl Donor Nutrient Supplementation on Metabolic Syndrome in Humans?
Authors: Alsharairi Naser A.
Published: January 2020

Metabolic syndrome (MetS), also termed insulin resistance syndrome, has been defined by World Health Organization (WHO) as a multi-factorial disorder characterized by a wide array of cardiometabolic risk factors that increase the risk of coronary heart diseases, diabetes mellitus, and stroke [...]
Electrochemical Deposition of Al-Ti Alloys from Equimolar AlCl3 + NaCl Containing Electrochemically Dissolved Titanium
Authors: Cvetković Vesna S. , Vukićević Nataša M. , Milićević-Neumann Ksenija , Stopić Srećko , Friedrich Bernd , Jovićević Jovan N.
Published: January 2020

Al-Ti alloys were electrodeposited from equimolar chloroaluminate molten salts containing up to 0.1 M of titanium ions, which were added to the electrolyte by potentiostatic dissolution of metallic Ti. Titanium dissolution and titanium and aluminium deposition were investigated by linear sweep voltammetry and chronoamperometry at 200 and 300 °C. Working electrodes used were titanium and glassy carbon. The voltammograms on Ti obtained in the electrolyte without added Ti ions indicated titanium deposition and dissolution proceeding in three reversible steps: Ti4+ ⇄ Ti3+, Ti3+ ⇄ Ti2+ and Ti2+ ⇄ Ti. The voltammograms recorded with glassy carbon in the electrolyte containing added titanium ions did not always clearly register all of the three processes. However, peak currents, which were characteristics of Al, Ti and Al-Ti alloy deposition and dissolution, were evident in voltammograms on both working electrodes used. A constant potential electrodeposition regime was used to obtain deposits on the glassy carbon working electrode. The obtained deposits were characterized by SEM, energy-dispersive spectrometry and XRD. In the deposits on the glassy carbon electrode, the analysis identified an Al and AlTi3 alloy formed at 200 °C and an Al2Ti and Al3Ti alloy obtained at 300 °C.
The Mechanism for HAZ Liquation of Nickel-Based Alloy 617B During Gas Tungsten Arc Welding
Authors: Li Shanlin , Li Kejian , Hu Mengjia , Wu Yao , Cai Zhipeng , Pan Jiluan
Published: January 2020

The mechanism for HAZ (heat-affected zone) liquation of alloy 617B during gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) was investigated. Welding thermal simulation work was conducted to investigate the effects of thermal parameters (peak temperature, holding time, and thermal cycle numbers) on M23C6 carbides’ evolutionary behavior in nickel-based alloy 617B. OM (optical microscopy), SEM (scanning electron microscopy), TEM (transmission electron microscopy), and SIMS (secondary ion mass spectrometry) were employed to characterize HAZ carbides. It was found that the constitutional liquation of M23C6 carbides is responsible for HAZ liquation in alloy 617B. Rapid heating meant that solute atoms released from partially dissolved M23C6 carbides did not have enough time to sufficiently diffuse into the matrix, resulting in eutectic reaction M23C6 + γ → liquid in the temperature range from 1250 °C to 1300 °C. In the following cooling process, the liquid phase transformed into γ and M23C6 (or M6C) carbides simultaneously, creating a eutectic microstructure. Subsequent thermal cycles with peak temperature 1100 °C and proper holding time brought about a tempering effect to precipitate fine M23C6 carbides from the Cr supersaturated zone around the eutectic microstructure. Boron was found to be enriched in carbides and was expected to promote HAZ liquation by two mechanisms. No cracking caused by HAZ liquation has been found, indicating that GTAW is a suitable method for joining alloy 617B.
Erratum: Ismail, I.T.; et al. Inborn Errors of Metabolism in the Era of Untargeted Metabolomics and Lipidomics. Metabolites 2019, 9, 242
Authors: Ismail Israa T. , Showalter Megan R. , Fiehn Oliver
Published: January 2020

The authors wish to make the following correction to this paper [...]
Strength and Volume Change Characteristics of Clayey Soils: Performance Evaluation of Enzymes
Authors: Khan Tanveer Ahmed , Taha Mohd Raihan , Khan Mudasser Muneer , Shah Syyed Adnan Raheel , Aslam Muhammad Asif , Waqar Ahsan , Khan Ahsan Rehman , Waseem Muhammad
Published: January 2020

This study was conducted to evaluate the strength and volume change characteristics of a sedimentary residual soil mixed with bentonite (S1) when treated with three different enzymes. In addition, three reference clays including bentonite, illite, and kaolinite were also treated with enzymes to study the effect on their strength characteristics. Soil samples prepared at the optimum moisture content (OMC) were sealed and cured for four months. After curing, reference clays were tested for unconfined compressive strength (UCS). For swell tests, the S1 soil samples were placed on porous stones, which were immersed in water to allow capillary soaking of the samples. S1 samples were allowed to dry at ambient temperature for shrinkage test until the rate of reduction in volume became negligible. On completion of swell tests, the samples were tested for UCS to determine the decrease in strength due to saturation. No increase in strength and decrease in volume change were observed for any of the enzymes and dosages. Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM) showed some dense packing of particles for treated samples, whereas X-ray diffraction (XRD) did not reveal any change; in fact, the pattern for untreated and treated soil samples were indistinguishable.
Interactions of Paraoxonase-1 with Pharmacologically Relevant Carbamates
Authors: Bosak Anita , Bavec Aljoša , Konte Tilen , Šinko Goran , Kovarik Zrinka , Goličnik Marko
Published: January 2020

Mammalian paraoxonase-1 hydrolyses a very broad spectrum of esters such as certain drugs and xenobiotics. The aim of this study was to determine whether carbamates influence the activity of recombinant PON1 (rePON1). Carbamates were selected having a variety of applications: bambuterol and physostigmine are drugs, carbofuran is used as a pesticide, while Ro 02-0683 is diagnostic reagent. All the selected carbamates reduced the arylesterase activity of rePON1 towards the substrate S-phenyl thioacetate (PTA). Inhibition dissociation constants (Ki), evaluated by both discontinuous and continuous inhibition measurements (progress curves), were similar and in the mM range. The rePON1 displayed almost the same values of Ki constants for Ro 02-0683 and physostigmine while, for carbofuran and bambuterol, the values were approximately ten times lower and two times higher, respectively. The affinity of rePON1 towards the tested carbamates was about 3–40 times lower than that of PTA. Molecular modelling of rePON1-carbamate complexes suggested non-covalent interactions with residues of the rePON1 active site that could lead to competitive inhibition of its arylesterase activity. In conclusion, carbamates can reduce the level of PON1 activity, which should be kept in mind, especially in medical conditions characterized by reduced PON1 levels.
Two Natural Alkaloids Synergistically Induce Apoptosis in Breast Cancer Cells by Inhibiting STAT3 Activation
Authors: Chen Di , Ma Yangmin , Guo Zhiyu , Liu Li , Yang Yaru , Wang Yuru , Pan Bonan , Wu Luyang , Hui Yuyu , Yang Wenjuan
Published: January 2020

Breast cancer has become a worldwide threat, and chemotherapy remains a routine treatment. Patients are forced to receive continuous chemotherapy and suffer from severe side effects and poor prognosis. Natural alkaloids, such as piperine (PP) and piperlongumine (PL), are expected to become a new strategy against breast cancer due to their reliable anticancer potential. In the present study, cell viability, flow cytometry, and Western blot assays were performed to evaluate the suppression effect of PP and PL, alone or in combination. Data showed that PP and PL synergistically inhibited breast cancer cells proliferation at lower doses, while only weak killing effect was observed in normal breast cells, indicating a good selectivity. Furthermore, apoptosis and STAT3 signaling pathway-associated protein levels were analyzed. We demonstrated that PP and PL in combination inhibit STAT3 phosphorylation and regulate downstream molecules to induce apoptosis in breast cancer cells. Taken together, these results revealed that inactivation of STAT3 was a novel mechanism with treatment of PP and PL, suggesting that combination application of natural alkaloids may be a potential strategy for prevention and therapy of breast cancer.
Chemical Composition, Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, and Antiproliferative Properties of Grapefruit Essential Oil Prepared by Molecular Distillation
Authors: Deng Weihui , Liu Ke , Cao Shan , Sun Jingyu , Zhong Balian , Chun Jiong
Published: January 2020

Grapefruit essential oil has been proven to have wide range of bioactivities. However, bioactivity of its molecular distillate has not been well studied. In this study, a light phase oil was obtained by molecular distillation from cold-pressed grapefruit essential oil and GC-MS was used to identify its chemical composition. The antimicrobial activity of the light phase oil was tested by filter paper diffusion method, and the anticancer activity was determined by the Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. Twenty-four components were detected with a total relative content of 99.74%, including 97.48% of terpenes and 1.66% of oxygenated terpenes. The light phase oil had the best antimicrobial effect on Bacillus subtilis, followed by Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonellaty phimurium. DPPH and ABTS assays demonstrated that the light phase oil had good antioxidant activity. The CCK-8 assay of cell proliferation showed that the light phase oil had a good inhibitory effect on the proliferation of HepG2 liver cancer cells and HCT116 colon cancer cells.
The Link between Polyphenol Structure, Antioxidant Capacity and Shelf-Life Stability in the Presence of Fructose and Ascorbic Acid
Authors: Hanuka Katz Inbal , Eran Nagar Eden , Okun Zoya , Shpigelman Avi
Published: January 2020

Polyphenols play an important role in the sensorial and health-promoting properties of fruits and vegetables and display varying structure-dependent stability during processing and shelf-life. The current work aimed to increase the fundamental understanding of the link between the stability of polyphenols as a function of their structure, presence of ascorbic acid and fructose and total antioxidant capacity (TAC), using a multi-component model system. Polyphenol extract, used as the multi-component model system, was obtained from freeze-dried, high polyphenol content strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa ‘Nerina’) and twenty-one compounds were identified using high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS). The TAC and the first-order degradation kinetics were obtained, linking the polyphenol stability to its chemical structure, with and without the presence of fructose and ascorbic acid. The TAC (measured by oxygen radical absorption capacity (ORAC) and ferric reducing antioxidant potential (FRAP) assays) was not dramatically affected by storage temperatures and formulation, while polyphenol stability was significantly and structure dependently affected by temperature and the presence of ascorbic acid and fructose. Anthocyanins and phenolic acids were more unstable in the presence of ascorbic acid, while flavonol stability was enhanced by its presence. Shelf life study performed at 37 °C revealed significantly higher stability of purified polyphenols vs. the stability of the same polyphenols in the strawberry extract (multi-component system).
Tracking Extracellular Matrix Remodeling in Lungs Induced by Breast Cancer Metastasis. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopic Studies
Authors: Chrabaszcz Karolina , Kaminska Katarzyna , Augustyniak Karolina , Kujdowicz Monika , Smeda Marta , Jasztal Agnieszka , Stojak Marta , Marzec Katarzyna M. , Malek Kamilla
Published: January 2020

This work focused on a detailed assessment of lung tissue affected by metastasis of breast cancer. We used large-area chemical scanning implemented in Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopic imaging supported with classical histological and morphological characterization. For the first time, we differentiated and defined biochemical changes due to metastasis observed in the lung parenchyma, atelectasis, fibrous, and muscle cells, as well as bronchi ciliate cells, in a qualitative and semi-quantitative manner based on spectral features. The results suggested that systematic extracellular matrix remodeling with the progress of the metastasis process evoked a decrease in the fraction of the total protein in atelectasis, fibrous, and muscle cells, as well as an increase of fibrillar proteins in the parenchyma. We also detected alterations in the secondary conformations of proteins in parenchyma and atelectasis and changes in the level of hydroxyproline residues and carbohydrate moieties in the parenchyma. The results indicate the usability of FTIR spectroscopy as a tool for the detection of extracellular matrix remodeling, thereby enabling the prediction of pre-metastatic niche formation.
Grain-Boundary-Induced Alignment of Block Copolymer Thin Films
Authors: Gottlieb Steven , Fernández-Regúlez Marta , Lorenzoni Matteo , Evangelio Laura , Perez-Murano Francesc
Published: January 2020

We present and discuss the capability of grain boundaries to induce order in block copolymer thin films between horizontally and vertically assembled block copolymer grains. The system we use as a proof of principle is a thermally annealed 23.4 nm full-pitch lamellar Polystyrene-block-polymethylmetacrylate (PS-b-PMMA) di-block copolymer. In this paper, grain-boundary-induced alignment is achieved by the mechanical removal of the neutral brush layer via atomic force microscopy (AFM). The concept is also confirmed by a mask-less e-beam direct writing process. An elongated grain of vertically aligned lamellae is trapped between two grains of horizontally aligned lamellae. This configuration leads to the formation of 90° twist grain boundaries. The features maintain their orientation on a characteristic length scale, which is described by the material’s correlation length ξ. As a result of an energy minimization process, the block copolymer domains in the vertically aligned grain orient perpendicularly to the grain boundary. The energy-minimizing feature is the grain boundary itself. The width of the manipulated area (e.g., the horizontally aligned grain) does not represent a critical process parameter.
Nanotip Contacts for Electric Transport and Field Emission Characterization of Ultrathin MoS2 Flakes
Authors: Iemmo Laura , Urban Francesca , Giubileo Filippo , Passacantando Maurizio , Di Bartolomeo Antonio
Published: January 2020

We report a facile approach based on piezoelectric-driven nanotips inside a scanning electron microscope to contact and electrically characterize ultrathin MoS2 (molybdenum disulfide) flakes on a SiO2/Si (silicon dioxide/silicon) substrate. We apply such a method to analyze the electric transport and field emission properties of chemical vapor deposition-synthesized monolayer MoS2, used as the channel of back-gate field effect transistors. We study the effects of the gate-voltage range and sweeping time on the channel current and on its hysteretic behavior. We observe that the conduction of the MoS2 channel is affected by trap states. Moreover, we report a gate-controlled field emission current from the edge part of the MoS2 flake, evidencing a field enhancement factor of approximately 200 and a turn-on field of approximately   40   V / μ m at a cathode–anode separation distance of 900   nm .
High Humidity Causes Abnormalities in the Process of Appressorial Formation of Blumeria graminis f. sp. hordei
Authors: Sugai Koreyuki , Inoue Hiroshi , Inoue Chie , Sato Mayuko , Wakazaki Mayumi , Kobayashi Kappei , Nishiguchi Masamichi , Toyooka Kiminori , Yamaoka Naoto , Yaeno Takashi
Published: January 2020

High humidity decreases the penetration rate of barley powdery mildew Blumeria graminis f. sp. hordei. However, the mechanism is not well understood. In this study, the morphological and cytochemical analyses revealed that substances containing proteins leaked from the tip of the appressorial germ tube of conidia without the formation of appressorium under a high humidity condition. In addition, exposure to high humidity prior to the formation of appressorium caused the aberrant formation of the appressorial germ tube without appressorium formation, resulting in failure to penetrate the host cell. These findings suggest that the formation and maturation of the appressorium requires a low humidity condition, and will be clues to improve the disease management by humidity control.
Mass Spectrometry Imaging of Specialized Metabolites for Predicting Lichen Fitness and Snail Foraging
Authors: Gadea Alice , Fanuel Mathieu , Le Lamer Anne-Cécile , Boustie Joël , Rogniaux Hélène , Charrier Maryvonne , Lohézic-Le Devehat Françoise
Published: January 2020

Lichens are slow-growing organisms supposed to synthetize specialized metabolites to protect themselves against diverse grazers. As predicted by the optimal defense theory (ODT), lichens are expected to invest specialized metabolites in higher levels in reproductive tissues compared to thallus. We investigated whether Laser Desorption Ionization coupled to Mass Spectrometry Imaging (LDI-MSI) could be a relevant tool for chemical ecology issues such as ODT. In the present study, this method was applied to cross-sections of thalli and reproductive tissues of the lichen Pseudocyphellaria crocata. Spatial mapping revealed phenolic families of metabolites. A quantification of these metabolites was carried out in addition to spatial imaging. By this method, accumulation of specialized metabolites was observed in both reproductive parts (apothecia and soralia) of P. crocata, but their nature depended on the lichen organs: apothecia concentrated norstictic acid, tenuiorin, and pulvinic acid derivatives, whereas soralia mainly contained tenuiorin and pulvinic acid. Stictic acid, tenuiorin and calycin, tested in no-choices feeding experiments, were deterrent for N. hookeri while entire thalli were consumed by the snail. To improve better knowledge in relationships between grazed and grazing organisms, LDI-MSI appears to be a complementary tool in ecological studies
Biofortification of Pulse Crops: Status and Future Perspectives
Authors: Jha Ambuj B. , Warkentin Thomas D.
Published: January 2020

Biofortification through plant breeding is a sustainable approach to improve the nutritional profile of food crops. The majority of the world’s population depends on staple food crops; however, most are low in key micronutrients. Biofortification to improve the nutritional profile of pulse crops has increased importance in many breeding programs in the past decade. The key micronutrients targeted have been iron, zinc, selenium, iodine, carotenoids, and folates. In recent years, several biofortified pulse crops including common beans and lentils have been released by HarvestPlus with global partners in developing countries, which has helped in overcoming micronutrient deficiency in the target population. This review will focus on recent research advances and future strategies for the biofortification of pulse crops.
Porcine Collagen–Bone Composite Induced Osteoblast Differentiation and Bone Regeneration In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Salamanca Eisner , Hsu Chia Chen , Yao Wan Ling , Choy Cheuk Sing , Pan Yu Hwa , Teng Nai-Chia , Chang Wei-Jen
Published: January 2020

Due to autogenous bone limitations, some substitute bone grafts were developed. Collagenated porcine graft (CPG) is able to regenerate new bone, although the number of studies is insufficient, highlighting the need for future studies to better understand the biomaterial. In order to understand better CPG′s possible dental guided bone regeneration indications, the aim of this work was to determine CPG′s biological capacity to induce osteoblast differentiation in vitro and guided bone regeneration in vivo, whilst being compared with commercial hydroxyapatite and beta tricalcium phosphate (HA/β-TCP) and porcine graft alone. Cell cytotoxicity (WST-1), alkaline phosphatase activity (ALP), and real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) were assessed in vitro. Critical size defects of New Zealand white rabbits were used for the in vivo part, with critical size defect closures and histological analyses. WST-1 and ALP indicated that CPG directly stimulated a greater proliferation and confluency of cells with osteoblastic differentiation in vitro. Gene sequencing indicated stable bone formation markers, decreased resorption makers, and bone remodeling coupling factors, making the transition from osteoclast to osteoblast expression at the end of seven days. CPG resulted in the highest new bone regeneration by osteoconduction in critical size defects of rabbit calvaria at eight weeks. Nonetheless, all biomaterials achieved nearly complete calvaria defect closure. CPG was found to be osteoconductive, like porcine graft and HA/β-TCP, but with higher new bone formation in critical size defects of rabbit calvaria at eight weeks. CPG can be used for different dental guided bone regeneration procedures; however, further studies are necessary.
The Influence of Hydrothermal Aging on the Dynamic Friction Model of Rubber Seals
Authors: Wu Jian , Luo Hang , Li Haohao , Su Benlong , Wang Youshan , Li Zhe
Published: January 2020

Cylinder has become an indispensable and important pneumatic actuator in the development of green production technology. The sealing performance of the cylinder directly affects its safety and reliability. Under the service environment of the cylinder, hydrothermal aging of the rubber sealing ring directly affects the dynamic friction performance of the cylinder. So, the dynamic friction model of the cylinder has been developed based on the LuGre friction model, which considers the influence of hydrothermal aging. Here, the influences of the static friction coefficient and Coulomb friction coefficient on the friction model are analyzed. Then, the aging characteristic equation of rubber is embedded in the model for revealing the influence of aging on the friction coefficient of the model. Results show that the aging temperature, aging time, and compressive stress affects the friction coefficient; the variation of the static friction coefficient is larger than that of the Coulomb friction coefficient. The improved cylinder friction model can describe the influence of the aging process on the cylinder friction characteristics, which is of great significance in the design of the cylinder’s dynamic performance.
Gamma Ray-Induced Polymerization and Cross-Linking for Optimization of PPy/PVP Hydrogel as Biomaterial
Authors: Jeong Jin-Oh , Park Jong-Seok , Kim Young-Ah , Yang Su-Jin , Jeong Sung-In , Lee Jae-Young , Lim Youn-Mook
Published: January 2020

Conducting polymer (CP)-based hydrogels exhibit the behaviors of bending or contraction/relaxation due to electrical stimulation. They are similar in some ways to biological organs and have advantages regarding manipulation and miniaturization. Thus, these hydrogels have attracted considerable interest for biomedical applications. In this study, we prepared PPy/PVP hydrogel with different concentrations and content through polymerization and cross-linking induced by gamma-ray irradiation at 25 kGy to optimize the mechanical properties of the resulting PPy/PVP hydrogel. Optimization of the PPy/PVP hydrogel was confirmed by characterization using scanning electron microscopy, gel fraction, swelling ratio, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. In addition, we assessed live-cell viability using live/dead assay and CCK-8 assay, and found good cell viability regardless of the concentration and content of Py/pTS. The conductivity of PPy/PVP hydrogel was at least 13 mS/cm. The mechanical properties of PPy/PVP hydrogel are important factors in their application for biomaterials. It was found that 0.15PPy/PVP20 (51.96 ± 6.12 kPa) exhibited better compressive strength than the other samples for use in CP-based hydrogels. Therefore, it was concluded that gamma rays can be used to optimize PPy/PVP hydrogel and that biomedical applications of CP-based hydrogels will be possible.
Effects of Coated Separator Surface Morphology on Electrolyte Interfacial Wettability and Corresponding Li–Ion Battery Performance
Authors: Xu Ruijie , Huang Henghui , Tian Ziqin , Xie Jiayi , Lei Caihong
Published: January 2020

In order to study the effect of interfacial wettability of separator on electrochemical properties for lithium–ion batteries, two different kinds of polyvinylidene fluoride-hexafluoropropylene (PVDF–HFP) solution are prepared and used to coat onto a polypropylene (PP) microporous membrane. It is found that the cell performance of a coated separator using aqueous slurry (WPS) is better than that of the coated separator using acetone (APS) as the solvent. The separator with flat and pyknotic surface (PP and APS) has a strong polar action with the electrolyte, where the polar part is more than 80%. To the contrary, the WPS has a roughness surface and when the PVDF–HFP particles accumulate loose, it makes the apolar part plays a dominate role in surface free energy; the dispersive energy reaches to 40.17 mJ m−2. The WPS has the lowest immersion free energy, 31.9 mJ m−2 with the electrolyte, and this will accelerate electrolyte infiltration to the separator. The loose particle accumulation also increases the electrolyte weight uptake and interfacial wettability velocity, which plays a crucial role in improving the cell performance such as the ionic conductivity, discharge capacity and the C-rate capability.
Challenges with Verifying Microbial Degradation of Polyethylene
Authors: Montazer Zahra , Habibi Najafi Mohammad B. , Levin David B.
Published: January 2020

Polyethylene (PE) is the most abundant synthetic, petroleum-based plastic materials produced globally, and one of the most resistant to biodegradation, resulting in massive accumulation in the environment. Although the microbial degradation of polyethylene has been reported, complete biodegradation of polyethylene has not been achieved, and rapid degradation of polyethylene under ambient conditions in the environment is still not feasible. Experiments reported in the literature suffer from a number of limitations, and conclusive evidence for the complete biodegradation of polyethylene by microorganisms has been elusive. These limitations include the lack of a working definition for the biodegradation of polyethylene that can lead to testable hypotheses, a non-uniform description of experimental conditions used, and variations in the type(s) of polyethylene used, leading to a profound limitation in our understanding of the processes and mechanisms involved in the microbial degradation of polyethylene. The objective of this review is to outline the challenges in polyethylene degradation experiments and clarify the parameters required to achieve polyethylene biodegradation. This review emphasizes the necessity of developing a biochemically-based definition for the biodegradation of polyethylene (and other synthetic plastics) to simplify the comparison of results of experiments focused for the microbial degradation of polyethylene.
Novolac/Phenol-Containing Phthalonitrile Blends: Curing Characteristics and Composite Mechanical Properties
Authors: Zhang Hanqi , Wang Bing , Wang Yanna , Zhou Heng
Published: January 2020

The phenol-containing phthalonitrile resin is a kind of self-curing phthalonitrile resin with high-temperature resistance and excellent properties. However, the onefold phthalonitrile resin is unattainable to cured completely, and the brittleness of the cured product is non-negligible. This paper focuses on solving the above problems by blending novolac resin into phenol-containing phthalonitrile. Under the action of abundant hydroxyl group, the initial curing temperature and gelation time at 170 °C decrease by 88 °C and 2820 s, respectively, monitored by DSC and rheological analysis. FT-IR spectra of copolymers showed that the addition of novolac increased the conversion rate of nitrile. When the novolac mass fraction is 10%, the peak of nitrile group disappears, which means the complete reaction. The mechanical test of blends composites shows that the maximum fracture strain of 10 wt% novolac addition is 122% higher than those of neat phthalonitrile composites on account of the introduction of flexible novolac chain segments. The mechanical properties are sensitive to elevated post-cured temperature; this is consistent with the result of morphological investigation using SEM. Finally, the dynamic mechanical analysis indicated that the glass transition temperature heightened with the increase of novolac content and post-curing temperature.
Hydrophilic Porous Polydimethysiloxane Sponge as a Novel 3D Matrix Mimicking Heterogeneous Pores in Soil for Plant Cultivation
Authors: Chen Feng , Chai Huihui , Song Zhaoxi , Yu Ling , Fang Can
Published: January 2020

In this work, a citric acid monohydrate (CAM)-templated polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) sponge was proposed to mimic heterogeneous pore structures in the soil for plant cultivation. The porosity of the PDMS sponges was tuned by adjusting the CAM template. The water intake capability of the sponge was improved by (3-Aminopropyl) triethoxysilane (APTES) functionalization. The pore size and pore distribution were characterized by SEM and micro-computed tomography (micro-CT). The effect of pore structures on Oryzasativa (O. sativa) growth was investigated. Also, a 3D multi-layer PDMS sponge assembling was proposed to mimic the heterogeneous pore distribution at the different soil depth. The different growth rates of O. sativa and Nicotiana tabacum L. (N. tabacum) seeds on porous PDMS sponge indicated the impact of physical obstacles (pores) and chemical (water content) conditions on plant development. It is anticipated that this PDMS sponge could serve as a 3D matrix to mimic soil and provide a new idea for plant cultivation.
How to Measure Baha’i Religiosity: The CRSi-20 for Baha’is as a First Reliable and Valid Measurement
Authors: Demmrich Sarah
Published: January 2020

The concepts and measurements in psychology of religion often adhere to its Judeo-Christian roots, which causes problems when measuring non-Christian religiosity. In this paper, two successive studies are presented. The first study applied Huber’s CRS-15, while the second study used the CRSi-20. Both samples consisted of believers of the non-Christian, Abrahamic Baha’i religion in Germany. In the first study, in which N = 472 participated (MAge = 43.22, SDAge = 15.59, 60.0% female), the reliability and validity issues related to items of public practice and experience of the CRS-15 were uncovered. After modifying the content of these items and adding the five additional items of the interreligious CRSi-20, which was tested among N = 324 participants (MAge = 47.12, SDAge = 17.06, 59.6% female) in a second study, most reliability issues were solved. Confirmatory factor analyses revealed that the CRSi-20 model describes the data appropriately with adequate fit indices. Therefore, the CRSi-20 for Baha’is offers the first reliable and valid measurements of Baha’i religiosity, being at the same time capable of taking the emic perspective fully into account while maintaining the possibility of cross-religious comparisons.
A Method for the Optimized Design of a Rain Gauge Network Combined with Satellite Remote Sensing Data
Authors: Huang Yanyan , Zhao Hongli , Jiang Yunzhong , Lu Xin
Published: January 2020

A well-designed rain gauge network can provide precise and detailed rainfall data for earth science research; meanwhile, satellite precipitation data has been developed to generate more real spatial features, which provides new data support for the improvement of ground station network design methods. In this paper, satellite precipitation data are introduced into the design of a rain gauge network and an optimized method for designing a rain gauge network that comprehensively considers the information content, spatiotemporality, and accuracy (ISA) of the data is proposed. After screening the potential stations, the average spatial information index of the rain gauge network, which is calculated from remote sensing data, is used to address the shortcomings of applying spatial information from single-use measurement data. Then, the greedy ranking algorithm is used to rank the order in which the rain gauges are added to the network. The results of the rain gauge network design in the upper reaches of the Chaobai river show that compared with two methods that do not consider spatiality or use only measured data to consider spatiality, the proposed method performs better in terms of the spatial layout and accuracy verification. This study provides new ideas and references for the design of hydrological station networks and explores the use of remote sensing data for the layout of ground-based station networks.