bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mathematical Models for Stress–Strain Behavior of Nano Magnesia-Cement-Reinforced Seashore Soft Soil
Authors: Wang Wei , Fu Yong , Zhang Chen , Li Na , Zhou Aizhao
Published: March 2020

The stress–strain behavior of nano magnesia-cement-reinforced seashore soft soil (Nmcs) under different circumstances exhibits various characteristics, e.g., strain-hardening behavior, falling behavior, S-type falling behavior, and strong softening behavior. This study therefore proposes a REP (reinforced exponential and power function)-based mathematical model to simulate the various stress–strain behaviors of Nmcs under varying conditions. Firstly, the mathematical characteristics of different constitutive behaviors of Nmcs are explicitly discussed. Secondly, the conventional mathematical models and their applicability for modeling stress–strain behavior of cemented soil are examined. Based on the mathematical characteristics of different stress–strain curves and the features of different conventional models, a simple mathematical REP model for simulating the hardening behavior, modified falling behavior and strong softening behavior is proposed. Moreover, a CEL (coupled exponential and linear) model improved from the REP model is also put forth for simulating the S-type stress–strain behavior of Nmcs. Comparisons between conventional models and the proposed REP-based models are made which verify the feasibility of the proposed models. The proposed REP-based models may facilitate researchers in the assessment and estimation of stress–strain constitutive behaviors of Nmcs subjected to different scenarios.
FastText-Based Local Feature Visualization Algorithm for Merged Image-Based Malware Classification Framework for Cyber Security and Cyber Defense
Authors: Jang Sejun , Li Shuyu , Sung Yunsick
Published: March 2020

The importance of cybersecurity has recently been increasing. A malware coder writes malware into normal executable files. A computer is more likely to be infected by malware when users have easy access to various executables. Malware is considered as the starting point for cyber-attacks; thus, the timely detection, classification and blocking of malware are important. Malware visualization is a method for detecting or classifying malware. A global image is visualized through binaries extracted from malware. The overall structure and behavior of malware are considered when global images are utilized. However, the visualization of obfuscated malware is tough, owing to the difficulties encountered when extracting local features. This paper proposes a merged image-based malware classification framework that includes local feature visualization, global image-based local feature visualization, and global and local image merging methods. This study introduces a fastText-based local feature visualization method: First, local features such as opcodes and API function names are extracted from the malware; second, important local features in each malware family are selected via the term frequency inverse document frequency algorithm; third, the fastText model embeds the selected local features; finally, the embedded local features are visualized through a normalization process. Malware classification based on the proposed method using the Microsoft Malware Classification Challenge dataset was experimentally verified. The accuracy of the proposed method was approximately 99.65%, which is 2.18% higher than that of another contemporary global image-based approach.
The Microbial Community of Tetrodotoxin-Bearing and Non-Tetrodotoxin-Bearing Ribbon Worms (Nemertea) from the Sea of Japan
Authors: Melnikova Daria I. , Magarlamov Timur Yu.
Published: March 2020

A potent marine toxin, tetrodotoxin (TTX), found in a great variety of marine and some terrestrial species, leaves intriguing questions about its origin and distribution in marine ecosystems. TTX-producing bacteria were found in the cultivable microflora of many TTX-bearing hosts, thereby providing strong support for the hypothesis that the toxin is of bacterial origin in these species. However, metagenomic studies of TTX-bearing animals addressing the whole microbial composition and estimating the contribution of TTX-producing bacteria to the overall toxicity of the host were not conducted. The present study is the first to characterize and compare the 16S rRNA gene data obtained from four TTX-bearing and four non-TTX-bearing species of marine ribbon worms. The statistical analysis showed that different nemertean species harbor distinct bacterial communities, while members of the same species mostly share more similar microbiomes. The bacterial species historically associated with TTX production were found in all studied samples but predominated in TTX-bearing nemertean species. This suggests that deeper knowledge of the microbiome of TTX-bearing animals is a key to understanding the origin of TTX in marine ecosystems.
In Situ Development and High Temperature Features of CoCrFeNi-M6Cp High Entropy-Alloy Based Hardmetal
Authors: Li Huizhong , Lin He , Liang Xiaopeng , He Weiwei , Liu Bin , Liu Yong , Wang Li
Published: March 2020

In this work, an in-situ CoCrFeNi-M6Cp high entropy-alloy (HEA) based hardmetal with a composition of Co25Cr21Fe18Ni23Mo7Nb3WC2 was fabricated by the powder metallurgy (PM) method. Microstructures and mechanical properties of this HEA were characterized and analyzed. The results exhibit that this HEA possesses a two-phase microstructure consisting of the face-centered cubic (FCC) matrix phase and the carbide M6C phase. This HEA has an average grain size of 2.2 μm, and the mean size and volume fraction of carbide particles are 1.2 μm and 20%. The tensile tests show that the alloy has a yield strength of 573 MPa, ultimate tensile strength of 895 MPa and elongation of 5.5% at room temperature. The contributions from different strengthening mechanisms in this HEA were calculated. The grain boundary strengthening is the dominant strengthening mechanism, and the carbide particles are significant for the further enhancement of yield strength by the dislocation strengthening and Orowan strengthening. In addition, with increasing temperatures from 600 °C to 900 °C, the HEA shows a reduced yield strength (YS) from 473 MPa to 142 MPa, a decreased ultimate tensile strength (UTS) from 741 MPa to 165 MPa and an enhanced elongation from 10.5% to 31%.
Effect of Heat Treatment Condition on Microstructural and Mechanical Anisotropies of Selective Laser Melted Maraging 18Ni-300 Steel
Authors: Kim Dohyung , Kim Taehwan , Ha Kyeongsik , Oak Jeong-Jung , Jeon Jong Bae , Park Yongho , Lee Wookjin
Published: March 2020

18Ni-300 maraging steel produced by the selective laser melting (SLM) process has a unique microstructure that is different from that of the same alloy processed by conventional methods. In this paper, maraging steels were fabricated by the selective laser melting process and their microstructures and mechanical properties were investigated in terms of post heat treatment conditions. Moreover, the effect of different heat treatments on the mechanical anisotropy was studied in detail. The micro Vickers hardness in the as-built state was around 340 Hv and could be increased to approximately 600 Hv by aging heat treatments. It was found that the solution heat treatment was not necessary to obtain a fully hardened state. From tensile tests of the maraging steels heat treated with different conditions, it was found that the highest strength was achieved by aging and solution treatment (ST) temperatures lower than the commonly used temperatures. In the direction parallel to the laser scanning, the highest ultimate tensile strength was obtained when 450 °C aging was done without solution heat treatment. In the other two directions tested, i.e., directions normal to the building and 45 degrees to the laser scanning direction, the highest tensile strength was obtained when aging was done at 450 °C after 750 °C solution treatment.
Rational Alloy Design of Niobium-Bearing HSLA Steels
Authors: Almatani Rami A. , DeArdo Anthony J.
Published: March 2020

In the 61 years that niobium has been used in commercial steels, it has proven to be beneficial via several properties, such as strength and toughness. Over this time, numerous studies have been performed and papers published showing that both the strength and toughness can be improved with higher Nb additions. Earlier studies have verified this trend for steels containing up to about 0.04 wt.% Nb. Basic studies have shown that the addition of Nb increases the recrystallization-stop temperature, T5% or Tnr. These same studies have shown that with up to about 0.05 wt.% of Nb, the T5% temperature increases in the range of finish rolling, which is the basis of controlled rolling. These studies also have shown that at very high Nb levels, exceeding approximately 0.06 wt.% Nb, the recrystallization-stop temperature or T5% can increase into the temperature range of rough rolling, and this could result in insufficient grain refinement and recrystallization during rough rolling. However, the question remains as to how much Nb can be added before the detriments outweigh the benefits. While the benefits are easily observed and discussed, the detriments are not. These detriments at high Nb levels include cost, undissolved Nb particles, weldability issues, higher mill loads and roll wear and the lessening of grain refinement that might otherwise occur during plate rough rolling. This loss of grain refinement is important, since coarse grained microstructures often result in failure in the drop weight tear testing of the plate and pipe. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the practical limits of Nb microalloying in controlled rolled low carbon linepipe steels of gauges ranging from 12 to 25 mm in thickness.
Effect of Thermal Ageing at 400 °C on the Microstructure of Ferrite-Austenite Interface of Nickel-Base Alloy Narrow-Gap Dissimilar Metal Weld
Authors: Ahonen Matias , Mouginot Roman , Sarikka Teemu , Lindqvist Sebastian , Que Zaiqing , Ehrnstén Ulla , Virkkunen Iikka , Hänninen Hannu
Published: March 2020

Dissimilar metal welds (DMWs) are a key design feature in nuclear power systems, typically involving ferritic low-alloy steels (LAS), stainless steels (SS), and nickel-base alloys. They are, however, a potential concern regarding the structural integrity of nuclear power systems. In particular, the LAS/nickel-base alloy weld metal interface is known to develop a local strength mismatch upon post-weld heat treatment (PWHT). Very limited data is available on the effect of thermal ageing on the DMW interface. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of thermal ageing at 400 °C for up to 10,000 h on a narrow-gap DMW mock-up representative of the weld between the reactor pressure vessel nozzle and its safe-end after PWHT, with a special focus on the LAS SA 508/nickel-base Alloy 52 weld metal interface. No significant effect of thermal ageing on the appearing microstructure was observed in either LAS base material, LAS heat-affected zone or Alloy 52 weld metal. However, thermal ageing reduced the local strength mismatch at the LAS/nickel-base weld metal interface formed during PWHT. The reduction of the strength mismatch was detected using nanoindentation measurements and was concluded to be associated with a decrease in the carbon pile-up in the weld metal caused by PWHT. Based on the obtained results, thermal ageing promotes carbon diffusion from the weld metal side of the fusion boundary further away into the weld metal and thus slightly decreases the local strength mismatch.
Bridging the Gap: A Role for Campylobacter jejuni Biofilms
Authors: Tram Greg , Day Christopher J. , Korolik Victoria
Published: March 2020

Campylobacter jejuni is the leading cause of bacterial gastroenteritis in the developed world. Cases of Campylobacteriosis are common, as the organism is an avian commensal and is passed on to humans through contaminated poultry meat, water, and food preparation areas. Although typically a fastidious organism, C. jejuni can survive outside the avian intestinal tract until it is able to reach a human host. It has long been considered that biofilms play a key role in transmission of this pathogen. The aim of this review is to examine factors that trigger biofilm formation in C. jejuni. A range of environmental elements have been shown to initiate biofilm formation, which are then affected by a suite of intrinsic factors. We also aim to further investigate the role that biofilms may play in the life cycle of this organism.
Lipid Production from Sugarcane Top Hydrolysate and Crude Glycerol with Rhodosporidiobolus fluvialis Using a Two-Stage Batch-Cultivation Strategy with Separate Optimization of Each Stage
Authors: Boonyarit Jeerapan , Polburee Pirapan , Khaenda Bongkot , Zhao Zongbao K. , Limtong Savitree
Published: March 2020

Lipids from oleaginous microorganisms, including oleaginous yeasts, are recognized as feedstock for biodiesel production. A production process development of these organisms is necessary to bring lipid feedstock production up to the industrial scale. This study aimed to enhance lipid production of low-cost substrates, namely sugarcane top and biodiesel-derived crude glycerol, by using a two-stage cultivation process with Rhodosporidiobolus fluvialis DMKU-SP314. In the first stage, sugarcane top hydrolysate was used for cell propagation, and in the second stage, cells were suspended in a crude glycerol solution for lipid production. Optimization for high cell mass production in the first stage, and for high lipid production in the second stage, were performed separately using a one-factor-at-a-time methodology together with response surface methodology. Under optimum conditions in the first stage (sugarcane top hydrolysate broth containing; 43.18 g/L total reducing sugars, 2.58 g/L soy bean powder, 0.94 g/L (NH4)2SO4, 0.39 g/L KH2PO4 and 2.5 g/L MgSO4 7H2O, pH 6, 200 rpm, 28 °C and 48 h) and second stage (81.54 g/L crude glycerol, pH 5, 180 rpm, 27 °C and 196 h), a high lipid concentration of 15.85 g/L, a high cell mass of 21.07 g/L and a high lipid content of 73.04% dry cell mass were obtained.
Fungal Microbiota of Sea Buckthorn Berries at Two Ripening Stages and Volatile Profiling of Potential Biocontrol Yeasts
Authors: Lukša Juliana , Vepštaitė-Monstavičė Iglė , Apšegaitė Violeta , Blažytė-Čereškienė Laima , Stanevičienė Ramunė , Strazdaitė-Žielienė Živilė , Ravoitytė Bazilė , Aleknavičius Dominykas , Būda Vincas , Mozūraitis Raimondas , Servienė Elena
Published: March 2020

Sea buckthorn, Hippophae rhamnoides L., has considerable potential for landscape reclamation, food, medicinal, and cosmetics industries. In this study, we analyzed fungal microorganism populations associated with carposphere of sea buckthorn harvested in Lithuania. An amplicon metagenomic approach based on the ITS2 region of fungal rDNA was used to reveal the ripening-affected fungal community alterations on sea buckthorn berries. According to alpha and beta diversity analyses, depending on the ripening stage, sea buckthorn displayed significantly different fungal communities. Unripe berries were shown to be prevalent by Aureobasidium, Taphrina, and Cladosporium, while ripe berries were dominated by Aureobasidium and Metschnikowia. The selected yeast strains from unripe and mature berries were applied for volatile organic compounds identification by gas chromatography and mass spectrometry techniques. It was demonstrated that the patterns of volatiles of four yeast species tested were distinct from each other. The current study for the first time revealed the alterations of fungal microorganism communities colonizing the surface of sea buckthorn berries at different ripening stages. The novel information on specific volatile profiles of cultivable sea buckthorn-associated yeasts with a potential role in biocontrol is important for the development of the strategies for plant cultivation and disease management, as well as for the improvement of the quality and preservation of the postharvest berries. Management of the fungal microorganisms present on the surface of berries might be a powerful instrument for control of phytopathogenic and potentially antagonistic microorganisms affecting development and quality of the berries.
First Report on the Prevalence and Subtype Distribution of Blastocystis sp. in Edible Marine Fish and Marine Mammals: A Large Scale-Study Conducted in Atlantic Northeast and on the Coasts of Northern France
Authors: Gantois Nausicaa , Lamot Angélique , Seesao Yuwalee , Creusy Colette , Li Luen-Luen , Monchy Sébastien , Benamrouz-Vanneste Sadia , Karpouzopoulos Jacky , Bourgain Jean-Luc , Rault Célia , Demaret Fabien , Baydoun Martha , Chabé Magali , Fréalle Emilie , Aliouat-Denis Cécile-Marie , Gay Mélanie , Certad Gabriela , Viscogliosi Eric
Published: March 2020

Blastocystis is frequently identified in humans and animal hosts and exhibits a large genetic diversity with the identification of 17 subtypes (STs). Despite its zoonotic potential, its prevalence and ST distribution in edible marine fish and marine mammals remain unknown. A large-scale survey was thus conducted by screening 345 fish caught in Atlantic Northeast and 29 marine mammals stranded on the coasts of northern France for the presence of the parasite using real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction PCR. The prevalence of the parasite was about 3.5% in marine fish. These animals were mostly colonized by poikilotherm-derived isolates not identified in humans and corresponding to potential new STs, indicating that fish are natural hosts of Blastocystis. Marine fishes are also carriers of human STs and represent a likely limited source of zoonotic transmission. 13.8% of the marine mammals tested were colonized and 6 different STs were identified including 3 potential new STs. The risk of zoonotic transmission through marine mammals is insignificant due to the lack of repeated contact with humans. The present survey represents the first data regarding the prevalence and ST distribution of Blastocystis in marine fish and marine mammals and provides new insights into its genetic diversity, host range and transmission.
Potential of Polymeric Films Loaded with Gold Nanorods for Local Hyperthermia Applications
Authors: Cárcamo-Martínez Álvaro , Domínguez-Robles Juan , Mallon Brónach , Raman Md. Taifur , Cordeiro Ana Sara , Bell Steven E. J. , Larrañeta Eneko , Donnelly Ryan F.
Published: March 2020

Current strategies for the treatment of superficial non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) lesions include topical imoquimod, 5-fluorouracil, and photodynamic therapy. Although these treatments are effective, burning pain, blistering, and dermatitis have been reported as frequent side effects, making these therapies far from ideal. Plasmonic materials have been investigated for the induction of hyperthermia and use in cancer treatment. In this sense, the effectiveness of intratumorally and systemically injected gold nanorods (GnRs) in inducing cancer cell death upon near-infrared light irradiation has been confirmed. However, the in vivo long-term toxicity of these particles has not yet been fully documented. In the present manuscript, GnRs were included in a crosslinked polymeric film, evaluating their mechanical, swelling, and adhesion properties; moreover, their ability to heat up neonatal porcine skin (such as a skin model) upon irradiation was tested. Inclusion of GnRs into the films did not affect mechanical or swelling properties. GnRs were not released after film swelling, as they remained entrapped in the polymeric network; moreover, films did not adhere to porcine skin, altogether showing the enhanced biocompatibility of the material. GnR-loaded films were able to heat up the skin model over 40 °C, confirming the potential of this system for non-invasive local hyperthermia applications.
Ecofriendly Synthesis and Insecticidal Application of Copper Nanoparticles against the Storage Pest Tribolium castaneum
Authors: El-Saadony Mohamed T. , Abd El-Hack Mohamed E. , Taha Ayman E. , Fouda Moustafa M. G. , Ajarem Jamaan S. , N. Maodaa Saleh , Allam Ahmed A. , Elshaer Nashwa
Published: March 2020

In spite of great developments in the agricultural field and plant productivity in the last decades, the concern about the control of agricultural pests is still continuous. However, pest management is expected to have more effects from nanomaterials by providing innovative solutions. The current study confirms the biotransformation of copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) using a cell-free culture extract of metal copper-resistant bacteria Pseudomonas fluorescens MAL2, which was isolated from heavy metal-contaminated soils collected from Sharqia Governorate, Egypt. The local screened bacterial isolate, Pseudomonas fluorescens MAL2, is similar to Pseudomonas fluorescens DSM 12442T DSM. After optimization of growth conditions, F-Base medium was found to be the best medium and pH 7, temperature 35 °C, concentration of CuSO4·5H2O 300 ppm, 10 mL supernatant: 40 mL CuSO4·5H2O (300 ppm), and reaction time 90 min were recorded as the best growth conditions to the fabrication of CuNPs. The formed CuNPs were characterized using initially visual observation of the change in the color of the reaction mixture from blue color to the dark green as an indication of CuNPs biotransformation. Then, UV–Vis spectroscopy showed a maximum absorption at 610 nm under the optimum conditions performed. Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) revealed the formation of spherical aspect with size ranges from 10:70 nm; moreover, Energy Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) indicated the presence of CuNPs and other elements. In addition, the presence of alcohols, phenols, alkenes, and amines is confirmed by Fourier-Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectroscopy analysis. Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) supported that the Zeta-average size of nanoparticle was 48.07 with 0.227 PdI value. The Zeta potential showed −26.00mV with a single peak. The biosynthesized CuNPs (Bio CuNPs) showed toxicity against the stored grain pest (Tribolium castaneum), where LC50 value was 37 ppm after 5 days of treatment. However, the negligible effect was observed with chemical synthesis of CuNPs (Ch CuNPs) at the same concentration. The results suggest that Bio CuNPs could be used not only as a biocontrol agent, but also as an ecofriendly and inexpensive approach for controlling the stored grain pests.
Physicochemical Characterization of the Pristine E171 Food Additive by Standardized and Validated Methods
Authors: Verleysen Eveline , Waegeneers Nadia , Brassinne Frédéric , De Vos Sandra , Jimenez Isaac Ojea , Mathioudaki Stella , Mast Jan
Published: March 2020

E171 (titanium dioxide) is a food additive that has been authorized for use as a food colorant in the European Union. The application of E171 in food has become an issue of debate, since there are indications that it may alter the intestinal barrier. This work applied standardized and validated methodologies to characterize representative samples of 15 pristine E171 materials based on transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and single-particle inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (spICP-MS). The evaluation of selected sample preparation protocols allowed identifying and optimizing the critical factors that determine the measurement of the particle size distribution by TEM. By combining optimized sample preparation with method validation, a significant variation in the particle size and shape distributions, the crystallographic structure (rutile versus anatase), and the physicochemical form (pearlescent pigments versus anatase and rutile E171) was demonstrated among the representative samples. These results are important for risk assessment of the E171 food additive and can contribute to the implementation of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) guidance on risk assessment of the application of nanoscience and nanotechnologies in the food and feed chain.
PrPSc with Seeding Activity Extensively Overlaps with Proteinase-Resistant PrPSc Rather than Infectious PrPSc
Authors: Iwamaru Yoshifumi , Matsuura Yuichi , Miyazawa Kohtaro
Published: March 2020

The disease-associated prion protein (PrPSc) has the ability to seed the conformational conversion of normal prion proteins into the amyloid fibril form. This prion seeding activity can be measured using an in vitro amplification assay termed real-time quaking-induced conversion (RT-QuIC). There is a strong correlation between RT-QuIC positivity and prion infection; however, the relationship between seeding activity and infectivity remains elusive. In this study, we used endpoint dilution RT-QuIC on the brain homogenates from wild-type mice with mouse-adopted bovine spongiform encephalopathy (mBSE) at defined intervals during the incubation period and evaluated the temporal relationship among prion seeding dose, levels of proteinase-resistant PrPSc (PrPres), and infectious titer. We found that the infectious titer reached a plateau by 100 days postinfection, whereas seeding dose and PrPres levels were continuously elevated. Our calculation showed that the doubling time (dt) for seeding dose from 40 to 100 days postinoculation was closer to the dt for PrPres levels than to the dt for prion titer. Although an uncoupling of seeding doses and PrPres levels was observed at end-stage disease in this model, our findings suggest that there is substantial but not complete overlap between PrPSc with seeding activity and PrPres rather than infectious PrPSc.
Nanostructured Lipid Carriers for Delivery of Chemotherapeutics: A Review
Authors: Haider Mohamed , Abdin Shifaa M. , Kamal Leena , Orive Gorka
Published: March 2020

The efficacy of current standard chemotherapy is suboptimal due to the poor solubility and short half-lives of chemotherapeutic agents, as well as their high toxicity and lack of specificity which may result in severe side effects, noncompliance and patient inconvenience. The application of nanotechnology has revolutionized the pharmaceutical industry and attracted increasing attention as a significant means for optimizing the delivery of chemotherapeutic agents and enhancing their efficiency and safety profiles. Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) are lipid-based formulations that have been broadly studied as drug delivery systems. They have a solid matrix at room temperature and are considered superior to many other traditional lipid-based nanocarriers such as nanoemulsions, liposomes and solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) due to their enhanced physical stability, improved drug loading capacity, and biocompatibility. This review focuses on the latest advances in the use of NLCs as drug delivery systems and their preparation and characterization techniques with special emphasis on their applications as delivery systems for chemotherapeutic agents and different strategies for their use in tumor targeting.
Taxonomic Notes on the ‘Mahat’ (Artocarpus lacucha and A. thailandicus, Moraceae) Species Complex in Thailand
Authors: Aneklaphakij Chaiwat , Bunsupa Somnuk , Sirichamorn Yotsawate , Bongcheewin Bhanubong , Satitpatipan Veena
Published: March 2020

‘Mahat’ is a well-known medicinal plant utilized in Thailand. The Thai name ‘Mahat’ has been used in many scientific articles for years. However, it is, unpredictably, a homonym of two scientific names in Flora of Thailand, i.e., A. lacucha and A. thailandicus. Additionally, both species are complex due to their high morphological variation. This causes difficulties in species identification especially when this Thai name is referred to as the scientific name for research publication, quality control of pharmaceutical raw materials, and registration of pharmaceutical products. In this study, we scrutinized the taxonomy of ‘Mahat’ by detailed examination of its morphology and distribution, including molecular and qualitative phytochemical studies. Leaf surfaces were inspected using scanning electron microscopy. The phylogeny of both species was studied using DNA sequences of nuclear and plastid regions. Chromatographic fingerprints, focusing on the major active compound oxyresveratrol, were identified using high-performance liquid chromatography. According to our current study, phylogenetic evidence showed that some samples of both species were clustered together in the same clade and phytochemical fingerprints were almost identical. These results are valuable data for taxonomic revision in the near future and reveal the possible utilization of A. thailandicus as a new material source of oxyresveratrol in the pharmaceutical industry.
Identification and Expression Analysis of Stress-Associated Proteins (SAPs) Containing A20/AN1 Zinc Finger in Cucumber
Authors: Lai Wei , Zhou Yong , Pan Rao , Liao Liting , He Juncheng , Liu Haoju , Yang Yingui , Liu Shiqiang
Published: March 2020

Stress-associated proteins (SAPs) are a class of zinc finger proteins that confer tolerance to a variety of abiotic and biotic stresses in diverse plant species. However, in cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.), very little is known about the roles of SAP gene family members in regulating plant growth, development, and stress responses. In this study, a total of 12 SAP genes (named as CsSAP1-CsSAP12) were identified in the cucumber genome, which were unevenly distributed on six chromosomes. Gene duplication analysis detected one tandem duplication and two segmental duplication events. Phylogenetic analysis of SAP proteins from cucumber and other plants suggested that they could be divided into seven groups (sub-families), and proteins in the same group generally had the same arrangement of AN1 (ZnF-AN1) and A20 (ZnF-A20) domains. Most of the CsSAP genes were intronless and harbored a number of stress- and hormone-responsive cis-elements in their promoter regions. Tissue expression analysis showed that the CsSAP genes had a broad spectrum of expression in different tissues, and some of them displayed remarkable alteration in expression during fruit development. RT-qPCR results indicated that all the selected CsSAP genes displayed transcriptional responses to cold, drought, and salt stresses. These results enable the first comprehensive description of the SAP gene family in cucumber and lay a solid foundation for future research on the biological functions of CsSAP genes.
Phytochemicals, Antioxidant Activity and Ethnobotanical Uses of Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Del. Fruits from the Arid Zone of Mauritania, Northwest Africa
Authors: Abdelaziz Selouka Mint , Lemine Fouteye Mint Mohamed , Tfeil Hasni Ould , Filali-Maltouf Abdelkarim , Boukhary Ali Ould Mohamed Salem
Published: March 2020

Phytochemicals and antioxidant activity of fruits of 30 B. aegyptiaca trees naturally growing in the hyper-arid and arid zones in Mauritania were evaluated by following standard procedures. Ethnobotanical uses of fruit pulps and kernel were assessed using a structured questionnaire. Balanites aegyptiaca fruit pulp is a good source of sugars (33 g/100 g dry matter (DM)), polyphenols (264 mg GAE/100 g DM) and flavonoids (34.2 mg/100 g DM) with an average antioxidant activity of 519 µmol TEAC/100 g DM. The fruit kernel is rich in lipids (46.2 g/100 g DM) and proteins (29.5 g/100 g DM). Fruits from the hyper-arid zone exhibited high level of polyphenols, antioxidant activity and soluble tannins. Almost all of the informants (97.14%) reported the use of fruit pulp in folk medicine to treat diabetes, while 72.86% reported using the fruit pulp to treat hypertension. Kernel oil is mainly employed as ointments in the treatment of paronychia (57.14%) and dermal infections (35.71%). The predominant methods for preparing/administering fruit pulp/Kernel were maceration (58.8%), sucking fruit pulp (25.7%) and decoction (24.2%). Balanites aegyptiaca fruit contain both nutritional and health-promoting phytochemicals that could be of interest in the development of strategies for sustainable use of this neglected indigenous fruit tree.
Copper Uptake and Accumulation, Ultra-Structural Alteration, and Bast Fibre Yield and Quality of Fibrous Jute (Corchorus capsularis L.) Plants Grown under Two Different Soils of China
Authors: Saleem Muhammad Hamzah , Ali Shafaqat , Irshad Sana , Hussaan Muhammad , Rizwan Muhammad , Rana Muhammad Shoaib , Hashem Abeer , Abd_Allah Elsayed Fathi , Ahmad Parvaiz
Published: March 2020

Copper (Cu) is an essential heavy metal for plants, but high Cu concentration in the soil causes phytotoxicity. Some plants, however, possess a system that can overcome Cu toxicity, such as Cu localization, and an active antioxidant defence system to reduce oxidative damage induced by high Cu concentration. The present study was conducted to explore the phytoremediation potential, morpho-physiological traits, antioxidant capacity, and fibre quality of jute (Corchorus capsularis) grown in a mixture of Cu-contaminated soil and natural soil at ratios of 0:1 (control), 1:0, 1:1, 1:2 and 1:4. Our results showed that high Cu concentration in the soil decreased plant growth, plant biomass, chlorophyll content, gaseous exchange, and fibre yield while increasing reactive oxygen species (ROS), which indicated oxidative stress induced by high Cu concentration in the soil. Antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxidase dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) scavenge ROS in plant cells/tissues. Furthermore, high Cu concentration did not significantly worsen the fibre quality of C. capsularis, and this plant was able to accumulate a large amount of Cu, with higher Cu accumulation in its shoots than in its roots. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed that Cu toxicity affected different organelles of C. capsularis, with the chloroplast as the most affected organelle. On the basis of these results, we concluded that high Cu concentration was toxic to C. capsularis, reducing crop yield and plant productivity, but showing little effect on plant fibre yield. Hence, C. capsularis, as a fibrous crop, can accumulate a high concentration of Cu when grown in Cu-contaminated sites.
Macroscopic Poly Schiff Base-Coated Bacteria Cellulose with High Adsorption Performance
Authors: Ren Lili , Yang Zhihui , Huang Lei , He Yingjie , Wang Haiying , Zhang Liyuan
Published: March 2020

Here, a nanofiber-exfoliated bacteria cellulose aerogel with improved water affinity and high mass transfer was synthesized. Consequently, poly Schiff base can be uniformly coated within the body of bacteria cellulose aerogel without the traditional dispersion treatment. The composite aerogel has adequate mechanical and thermal stability and high mass transfer efficiency. Such an aerogel can serve as a superior adsorbent for flow through adsorption of pollution. Typically, the adsorption capacity towards Cr(VI), Cu(II), Re(VII), Conga red, and Orange G reaches as high as 321.5, 256.4, 153.8, 333.3, and 370.3 mg g−1, respectively. Moreover, the adsorption by this composite aerogel is very fast, such that, for example, at just 2 s, the adsorption is almost finished with Cr(VI) adsorption. Moreover, the composite aerogel exhibits a good adsorption-desorption capability. This research will hopefully shed light on the preparation of bacteria cellulose-derived macroscopic materials powerful in not only environmental areas, but also other related applications.
Robust Polymer Planar Bragg Grating Sensors Embedded in Commercial-Grade Composites
Authors: Kefer Stefan , Sauer Theresia , Hessler Steffen , Kaloudis Michael , Schmauss Bernhard , Hellmann Ralf
Published: March 2020

This contribution demonstrates the functionality of polymer planar Bragg grating (PPBG) sensors integrated into commercial-grade carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) components. Multiple CFRP specimens are generated by curing a stack of pre-impregnated fibers inside of a heated mechanical press, exposing the polymer sensor to a pressure of 7 bar and a temperature of 120 °C for 2 h. After integration, the sensor still exhibits a strong and evaluable signal. Subsequent flexural experiments reveal a linear response of the integrated sensor’s Bragg wavelength to the CFRP specimen’s maximum deflection. Additional findings demonstrate that the embedded PPBG can be used to detect plastic deformations of a CFRP workpiece, whereas a linear correlation of plastic deformation to the resulting Bragg signal offset is determined. A plausibility check of the obtained results is delivered by a comparison of three-point flexural experiments on bulk CFRP workpieces, without integrated sensors and additional specimens featuring external optical sensors affixed to their surface. It is found that PPBGs based on cyclic olefin copolymers are able to overcome the temperature-related limitations of traditional polymer-based optical sensors and can thus be directly integrated into commercial-grade composites during production.
Dynamic Mechanical Behavior Analysis of Flax/Jute Fiber-Reinforced Composites under Salt-Fog Spray Environment
Authors: Fiore Vincenzo , Sanfilippo Carmelo , Calabrese Luigi
Published: March 2020

Over the last decades, natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites (NFRPs) gained great attention in several engineering fields thanks to the reduction of the environmental impact and the end-of-life cost disposal. Unfortunately, the use of NFRPs is limited, mainly due to their weak resistance against humid environments. Since limited literature is available about the evolution of the dynamic mechanical response of NFRPs under aggressive environments, this paper aims to investigate the damping properties of flax, jute and flax/jute epoxy composites exposed to salt-fog up to 60 days. Furthermore, sodium bicarbonate fiber treatment was performed to improve the composites’ durability. The effectiveness of treatment was evidenced for full flax-reinforced composites, whereas no beneficial effect was found for jute composites. Moreover, treated hybrid laminates having outer laminae reinforced with flax showed better damping behavior than their hybrid counterparts during the whole aging campaign.
Long-Term Evaluation of Dip-Coated PCL-Blend-PEG Coatings in Simulated Conditions
Authors: Visan Anita Ioana , Popescu-Pelin Gianina , Gherasim Oana , Mihailescu Andreea , Socol Marcela , Zgura Irina , Chiritoiu Mari , Elena Sima Livia , Antohe Felicia , Ivan Luminita , M. Vranceanu Diana , M. Cotruț Cosmin , Cristescu Rodica , Socol Gabriel
Published: March 2020

Our study focused on the long-term degradation under simulated conditions of coatings based on different compositions of polycaprolactone-polyethylene glycol blends (PCL-blend-PEG), fabricated for titanium implants by a dip-coating technique. The degradation behavior of polymeric coatings was evaluated by polymer mass loss measurements of the PCL-blend-PEG during immersion in SBF up to 16 weeks and correlated with those yielded from electrochemical experiments. The results are thoroughly supported by extensive compositional and surface analyses (FTIR, GIXRD, SEM, and wettability investigations). We found that the degradation behavior of PCL-blend-PEG coatings is governed by the properties of the main polymer constituents: the PEG solubilizes fast, immediately after the immersion, while the PCL degrades slowly over the whole period of time. Furthermore, the results evidence that the alteration of blend coatings is strongly enhanced by the increase in PEG content. The biological assessment unveiled the beneficial influence of PCL-blend-PEG coatings for the adhesion and spreading of both human-derived mesenchymal stem cells and endothelial cells.
Novel Solid-State Emissive Polymers and Polymeric Blends from a T-Shaped Benzodifuran Scaffold: A Comparative Study
Authors: Caruso Ugo , Diana Rosita , Tuzi Angela , Panunzi Barbara
Published: March 2020

Two novel polyimines were synthesized from a benzodifuran based diamino monomer and two dialdehydes bearing bulky groups and a flexible spacer. The polymers display tuned luminescence performance according to the presence of half-salen groups. The effect of the intramolecular bond on the emission properties were examined. Two model compounds, replicating the same emissive Schiff base cores, were synthetized. From the models, dye-doped blends in the fluorophore/matrix ratio, resembling the polymers, were produced. Amorphous thin films of the covalent polymers and the polymeric blends were obtained by spin-coating technique. The Photoluminescent (PL) response of the different macromolecular systems were qualitatively and quantitatively examined and compared.
Effect of Chitin Nanocrystals on Crystallization and Properties of Poly(lactic acid)-Based Nanocomposites
Authors: Singh Shikha , Patel Mitul , Schwendemann Daniel , Zaccone Marta , Geng Shiyu , Maspoch Maria Lluisa , Oksman Kristiina
Published: March 2020

The crystalline phase of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) has crucial effects on its own properties and nanocomposites. In this study, the isothermal crystallization of PLA, triethyl citrate-plasticized PLA (PLA–TEC), and its nanocomposite with chitin nanocrystals (PLA–TEC–ChNC) at different temperatures and times was investigated, and the resulting properties of the materials were characterized. Both PLA and PLA–TEC showed extremely low crystallinity at isothermal temperatures of 135, 130, 125 °C and times of 5 or 15 min. In contrast, the addition of 1 wt % of ChNCs significantly improved the crystallinity of PLA under the same conditions owing to the nucleation effect of the ChNCs. The samples were also crystallized at 110 °C to reach their maximal crystallinity, and PLA–TEC–ChNC achieved 48% crystallinity within 5 min, while PLA and PLA–TEC required 40 min to reach a similar level. Moreover, X-ray diffraction analysis showed that the addition of ChNCs resulted in smaller crystallite sizes, which further influenced the barrier properties and hydrolytic degradation of the PLA. The nanocomposites had considerably lower barrier properties and underwent faster degradation compared to PLA–TEC110. These results confirm that the addition of ChNCs in PLA leads to promising properties for packaging applications.
Emulsifier-Free Acrylate-Based Emulsion Prepared by Reverse Iodine Transfer Polymerization
Authors: Huang Tao , Yuan Qing-Xia , Gong Shu-Ling
Published: March 2020

The self-emulsifying acrylate-based emulsions with solid content 45 wt.% were prepared in 3.5 h by reverse iodine transfer polymerization (RITP), and the polymer molecular weight (Mn) could be 30,000 g·mol−1. The influences of methacrylic acid (MAA) amount, soft/hard monomer mass ratio, and iodine amount on polymerization and latex were investigated. A moderate amount of ionized MAA was needed to stabilize the emulsion. Glass transition temperature (Tg) was decreased with the increasing mass ratio of soft/hard monomer. A higher iodine amount resulted in lower Mn. The increased Mn after chain extension of the polymer with water-insoluble monomers in iterative one-pot method proved the living of polymer. Compared with conventional emulsion polymerization, molecular weight (Mn) could be controlled, and Mn of polymer synthesized in RITP emulsion polymerization is higher; emulsion of polyacrylate-containing hydroxyl monomer units prepared by RITP emulsifier-free radical polymerization is more stable. Good properties, such as hardness, water resistance, adhesion, and increased value of maximum tensile of films modified by reaction of polyacrylate with melamine–formaldehyde (MF) resin, indicated potential application in baking coating.
Metal–Organic Framework Thin Films: Fabrication, Modification, and Patterning
Authors: Zhang Yujing , Chang Chih-Hung
Published: March 2020

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have been of great interest for their outstanding properties, such as large surface area, low density, tunable pore size and functionality, excellent structural flexibility, and good chemical stability. A significant advancement in the preparation of MOF thin films according to the needs of a variety of applications has been achieved in the past decades. Yet there is still high demand in advancing the understanding of the processes to realize more scalable, controllable, and greener synthesis. This review provides a summary of the current progress on the manufacturing of MOF thin films, including the various thin-film deposition processes, the approaches to modify the MOF structure and pore functionality, and the means to prepare patterned MOF thin films. The suitability of different synthesis techniques under various processing environments is analyzed. Finally, we discuss opportunities for future development in the manufacturing of MOF thin films.
Household Waste Sorting Participation in Developing Countries—A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Rousta Kamran , Zisen Liu , Hellwig Coralie
Published: March 2020

Given the increasing efforts at improving waste management in developing countries, this study aimed to analyze factors that influence participation in household waste sorting. It thereby is the first review that extends the published literature on this topic. A meta-analysis was conducted that analyzed twelve influencing factors. A moderate correlation was found for the most strongly influential factors—attitude, moral norm, subjective norm and perceived behavior control—which indicates that people’s perception of waste sorting is most influencing in prompting participation in household waste sorting in developing countries. The results of this meta-analysis indicate that knowledge, situational factors, such as physical conditions, and governmental incentives can influence participation in household waste sorting in developing countries but the relationship between those factors and other factors with high correlations should be studied further. Notably, socio-demographic factors have the weakest influence on the participation in waste sorting in developing countries despite a large body of research on such factors. It can be constructive to take the relationship across the identified factors and the participation in waste sorting into consideration when aiming to implement measures to increase the participation in waste management schemes through waste sorting. The outcome of this study may contribute to recommendations and policy suggestions regarding the promotion of sustainable waste management through household waste sorting in developing countries.
On the Performances of Trend and Change-Point Detection Methods for Remote Sensing Data
Authors: Militino Ana , Moradi Mehdi , Ugarte M.
Published: March 2020

Detecting change-points and trends are common tasks in the analysis of remote sensing data. Over the years, many different methods have been proposed for those purposes, including (modified) Mann–Kendall and Cox–Stuart tests for detecting trends; and Pettitt, Buishand range, Buishand U, standard normal homogeneity (Snh), Meanvar, structure change (Strucchange), breaks for additive season and trend (BFAST), and hierarchical divisive (E.divisive) for detecting change-points. In this paper, we describe a simulation study based on including different artificial, abrupt changes at different time-periods of image time series to assess the performances of such methods. The power of the test, type I error probability, and mean absolute error (MAE) were used as performance criteria, although MAE was only calculated for change-point detection methods. The study reveals that if the magnitude of change (or trend slope) is high, and/or the change does not occur in the first or last time-periods, the methods generally have a high power and a low MAE. However, in the presence of temporal autocorrelation, MAE raises, and the probability of introducing false positives increases noticeably. The modified versions of the Mann–Kendall method for autocorrelated data reduce/moderate its type I error probability, but this reduction comes with an important power diminution. In conclusion, taking a trade-off between the power of the test and type I error probability, we conclude that the original Mann–Kendall test is generally the preferable choice. Although Mann–Kendall is not able to identify the time-period of abrupt changes, it is more reliable than other methods when detecting the existence of such changes. Finally, we look for trend/change-points in land surface temperature (LST), day and night, via monthly MODIS images in Navarre, Spain, from January 2001 to December 2018.