bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Corticospinal Responses Following Gait-Specific Training in Stroke Survivors: A Systematic Review
Authors: Cherni Yosra , Tremblay Alexia , Simon Margaux , Bretheau Floriane , Blanchette Andréanne K. , Mercier Catherine
Published: November 2022

Corticospinal excitability is subject to alterations after stroke. While the reversal of these alterations has been proposed as an underlying mechanism for improved walking capacity after gait-specific training, this has not yet been clearly demonstrated. Therefore, the objective of this review is to evaluate the effect of gait-specific training on corticospinal excitability in stroke survivors. We conducted an electronic database search in four databases (i.e., Medline, Embase, CINAHL and Web of Science) in June 2022. Two authors screened in an independent way all the studies and selected those that investigated the effect of gait-specific training on variables such as motor-evoked potential amplitude, motor threshold, map size, latency, and corticospinal silent period in stroke survivors. Nineteen studies investigating the effect of gait-specific training on corticospinal excitability were included. Some studies showed an increased MEP amplitude (7/16 studies), a decreased latency (5/7studies), a decreased motor threshold (4/8 studies), an increased map size (2/3 studies) and a decreased cortical silent period (1/2 study) after gait-specific training. No change has been reported in terms of short interval intracortical inhibition after training. Five studies did not report any significant effect after gait-specific training on corticospinal excitability. The results of this systematic review suggest that gait-specific training modalities can drive neuroplastic adaptation among stroke survivors. However, given the methodological disparity of the included studies, additional clinical trials of better methodological quality are needed to establish conclusions. The results of this review can therefore be used to develop future studies to better understand the effects of gait-specific training on the central nervous system.
Research on the Impact of Rural Land Transfer on Non-Farm Employment of Farm Households: Evidence from Hubei Province, China
Authors: Chen Lili , Peng Jiquan , Zhang Yibei
Published: November 2022

Agricultural scale operations and industrialization promote the transfer of the rural labor force to the industry sector, and the non-farm employment of farmers plays a great role in increasing their income and reducing poverty. It is of great significance to explore the non-farm employment of farmers for the governance of relative poverty and the achievement of common prosperity. The propensity score matching (PSM) and generalized propensity score matching (GPSM) were used to analyze the impact of rural land transfer on farm households’ non-farm employment. According to the PSM estimation, compared to the farmers’ land not transferred, the rural land transfer significantly increased the proportion of non-farm employment personnel in farm households and the months of per year non-farm employment per person. The total land transfer, paddy land transfer and dry land transfer could significantly increase the proportion of non-farm employment personnel in farm households by 0.074, 0.029 and 0.085 units, respectively, and could significantly increase the months of per year non-farm employment per person by 0.604, 0.394 and 0.617 units, respectively. According to the GPSM estimation, different types of rural land transfer areas have significant positive effects on the proportion of non-farm workers and the months of per year non-farm employment per person, and show an obvious increasing trend of returns to scale, that is, the proportion of non-farm workers and the months of per year non-farm employment per person of farmers are higher than the increase in rural land transfer area. Additionally, the return to scale effect of dry land transfer area is more obvious. In order to raise the income of farm households and narrow the gap between urban and rural areas, the land transfer system can be further improved, urbanization with the county town as an important carrier can be vigorously promoted, the participation of farm households in non-farm employment in the local area can be promoted and the support policy system for non-farm employment of rural labor force can be improved.
Current Conceptualization and Operationalization of Adolescents’ Social Capital: A Systematic Review of Self-Reported Instruments
Authors: Ahlborg Mikael G. , Nyholm Maria , Nygren Jens M. , Svedberg Petra
Published: November 2022

There is a great heterogeneity in the conceptualization and operationalization of social capital in empirical research targeting adolescents. There has not yet been an attempt to systematically map and psychometrically evaluate the existing instruments for measuring social capital that have been developed and validated for adolescent samples. The aim of this systematic review was to identify and evaluate the design and psychometric properties of self-reported instruments for social capital, specifically developed and validated for use among adolescents. The design of this study was a systematic review guided by the COSMIN methodology for systematic reviews of Patient Reported Outcome Measures. The search included six electronic databases and no time frame was applied. Twenty studies were identified as describing the development and validation of a social capital instrument for adolescent samples. The results reveal common denominators, but also great variation in the design and validation of the instruments. Adolescents were only involved in the development procedures of four instruments. There is a lack of social capital instruments that cover both the multidimensionality of social capital and contextual relevance in relation to adolescents. Careful examination of instruments should thus precede a decision when designing studies and further instrument development involving the target group is encouraged.
Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production and Carbon Dioxide Reduction Catalyzed by an Artificial Cobalt Hemoprotein
Authors: Udry Guillermo A. Oliveira , Tiessler-Sala Laura , Pugliese Eva , Urvoas Agathe , Halime Zakaria , Maréchal Jean-Didier , Mahy Jean-Pierre , Ricoux Rémy
Published: November 2022

The covalent insertion of a cobalt heme into the cavity of an artificial protein named alpha Rep (αRep) leads to an artificial cobalt hemoprotein that is active as a catalyst not only for the photo-induced production of H2, but also for the reduction of CO2 in a neutral aqueous solution. This new artificial metalloenzyme has been purified and characterized by Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization-Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS), circular dichroism, and UltraViolet–Visible spectroscopy. Using theoretical experiments, the structure of this biohybrid and the positioning of the residues near the metal complex were examined, which made it possible to complete the coordination of the cobalt ion by an axial glutamine Gln283 ligand. While the Co(III)–porphyrin catalyst alone showed weak catalytic activity for both reactions, 10 times more H2 and four times more CO2 were produced when the Co(III)–porphyrin complex was buried in the hydrophobic cavity of the protein. This study thus provides a solid basis for further improvement of these biohybrids using well-designed modifications of the second and outer coordination sphere by site-directed mutagenesis of the host protein.
Assessment of the Antibiofilm Performance of Chitosan-Based Surfaces in Marine Environments
Authors: Lima Marta , Gomes Luciana C. , Teixeira-Santos Rita , Romeu Maria J. , Valcarcel Jesus , Vázquez José Antonio , Cerqueira Miguel A. , Pastrana Lorenzo , Bourbon Ana I. , de Jong Ed D. , Sjollema Jelmer , Mergulhão Filipe J.
Published: November 2022

Marine biofouling is a natural process often associated with biofilm formation on submerged surfaces, creating a massive economic and ecological burden. Although several antifouling paints have been used to prevent biofouling, growing ecological concerns emphasize the need to develop new and environmentally friendly antifouling approaches such as bio-based coatings. Chitosan (CS) is a natural polymer that has been widely used due to its outstanding biological properties, including non-toxicity and antimicrobial activity. This work aims to produce and characterize poly (lactic acid) (PLA)-CS surfaces with CS of different molecular weight (Mw) at different concentrations for application in marine paints. Loligo opalescens pens, a waste from the fishery industry, were used as a CS source. The antimicrobial activity of the CS and CS-functionalized surfaces was assessed against Cobetia marina, a model proteobacterium for marine biofouling. Results demonstrate that CS targets the bacterial cell membrane, and PLA-CS surfaces were able to reduce the number of culturable cells up to 68% compared to control, with this activity dependent on CS Mw. The antifouling performance was corroborated by Optical Coherence Tomography since PLA-CS surfaces reduced the biofilm thickness by up to 36%, as well as the percentage and size of biofilm empty spaces. Overall, CS coatings showed to be a promising approach to reducing biofouling in marine environments mimicked in this work, contributing to the valorization of fishing waste and encouraging further research on this topic.
Potential and Metabolic Pathways of Eugenol in the Management of Xanthomonas perforans, a Pathogen of Bacterial Spot of Tomato
Authors: Jibrin Mustafa Ojonuba , Liu Qingchun , Garrett Timothy J. , Jones Jeffrey B. , Zhang Shouan
Published: November 2022

Bacterial spot of tomato continues to pose a significant problem to tomato production worldwide. In Florida, bacterial spot of tomato caused by Xanthomonas perforans is one of the most important diseases responsible for tomato yield loss. This disease is difficult to control, and new strategies are continually being investigated to combat the devastating effect of this disease. Recent efforts focusing on essential oils based on small molecules have spurred interests in the utilization of this class of chemicals for disease management. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of eugenol for the management of bacterial spot of tomato caused by X. perforans. In the greenhouse experiments, eugenol applied as a foliar spray significantly (p < 0.5) reduced bacterial spot disease compared to the untreated control. In the field experiments, the area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC) was significantly (p < 0.5) lower in the plots treated with eugenol or eugenol combined with the surfactant Cohere than in the untreated control plots, and it was comparable to the copper-based treatments. To provide additional insights into the possible pathways of eugenol activities, we applied a liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS)-based metabolomic study using a thermo Q-Exactive orbitrap mass spectrometer with Dionex ultra high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) on X. perforans strain 91–118 treated with eugenol. Our results showed that eugenol affected metabolite production in multiple pathways critical to bacterial survival. For example, treatment of cells with eugenol resulted in the downregulation of the glutathione metabolism pathway and associated metabolites, except for 5-oxoproline, which accumulation is known to be toxic to living cells. While the peaks corresponding to the putatively identified sarmentosin showed the most significant impact and reduced in response to eugenol treatment, branched-chain amino acids, such as L-isoleucine, increased in production, suggesting that eugenol may not negatively affect the protein biosynthesis pathways. The results from our study demonstrated the efficacy of eugenol in the management of bacterial spot of tomato under greenhouse and field conditions and identified multiple pathways that are targeted.
Antiarrhythmic and Inotropic Effects of Selective Na+/Ca2+ Exchanger Inhibition: What Can We Learn from the Pharmacological Studies?
Authors: Nagy Norbert , Tóth Noémi , Nánási Péter P.
Published: November 2022

Life-long stable heart function requires a critical balance of intracellular Ca2+. Several ion channels and pumps cooperate in a complex machinery that controls the influx, release, and efflux of Ca2+. Probably one of the most interesting and most complex players of this crosstalk is the Na+/Ca2+ exchanger, which represents the main Ca2+ efflux mechanism; however, under some circumstances, it can also bring Ca2+ into the cell. Therefore, the inhibition of the Na+/Ca2+ exchanger has emerged as one of the most promising possible pharmacological targets to increase Ca2+ levels, to decrease arrhythmogenic depolarizations, and to reduce excessive Ca2+ influx. In line with this, as a response to increasing demand, several more or less selective Na+/Ca2+ exchanger inhibitor compounds have been developed. In the past 20 years, several results have been published regarding the effect of Na+/Ca2+ exchanger inhibition under various circumstances, e.g., species, inhibitor compounds, and experimental conditions; however, the results are often controversial. Does selective Na+/Ca2+ exchanger inhibition have any future in clinical pharmacological practice? In this review, the experimental results of Na+/Ca2+ exchanger inhibition are summarized focusing on the data obtained by novel highly selective inhibitors.
Molecular Docking and Dynamics Simulation Revealed the Potential Inhibitory Activity of New Drugs against Human Topoisomerase I Receptor
Authors: Madeddu Francesco , Di Martino Jessica , Pieroni Michele , Del Buono Davide , Bottoni Paolo , Botta Lorenzo , Castrignanò Tiziana , Saladino Raffaele
Published: November 2022

Human Topoisomerase I (hTop1p) is a ubiquitous enzyme that relaxes supercoiled DNA through a conserved mechanism involving transient breakage, rotation, and binding. Htop1p is the molecular target of the chemotherapeutic drug camptothecin (CPT). It causes the hTop1p-DNA complex to slow down the binding process and clash with the replicative machinery during the S phase of the cell cycle, forcing cells to activate the apoptotic response. This gives hTop1p a central role in cancer therapy. Recently, two artesunic acid derivatives (compounds c6 and c7) have been proposed as promising inhibitors of hTop1p with possible antitumor activity. We used several computational approaches to obtain in silico confirmations of the experimental data and to form a comprehensive dynamic description of the ligand-receptor system. We performed molecular docking analyses to verify the ability of the two new derivatives to access the enzyme-DNA interface, and a classical molecular dynamics simulation was performed to assess the capacity of the two compounds to maintain a stable binding pose over time. Finally, we calculated the noncovalent interactions between the two new derivatives and the hTop1p receptor in order to propose a possible inhibitory mechanism like that adopted by CPT.
Biallelic Inactivating TUB Variants Cause Retinal Ciliopathy Impairing Biogenesis and the Structure of the Primary Cilium
Authors: Ziccardi Lucia , Niceta Marcello , Stellacci Emilia , Ciolfi Andrea , Tatti Massimo , Bruselles Alessandro , Mancini Cecilia , Barbano Lucilla , Cecchetti Serena , Costanzo Eliana , Cappa Marco , Parravano Mariacristina , Varano Monica , Tartaglia Marco , Cordeddu Viviana
Published: November 2022

Inherited retinal degeneration (IRD) represents a clinically variable and genetically heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by photoreceptor dysfunction. These diseases typically present with progressive severe vision loss and variable onset, ranging from birth to adulthood. Genomic sequencing has allowed to identify novel IRD-related genes, most of which encode proteins contributing to photoreceptor-cilia biogenesis and/or function. Despite these insights, knowledge gaps hamper a molecular diagnosis in one-third of IRD cases. By exome sequencing in a cohort of molecularly unsolved individuals with IRD, we identified a homozygous splice site variant affecting the transcript processing of TUB, encoding the first member of the Tubby family of bipartite transcription factors, in a sporadic case with retinal dystrophy. A truncating homozygous variant in this gene had previously been reported in a single family with three subjects sharing retinal dystrophy and obesity. The clinical assessment of the present patient documented a slightly increased body mass index and no changes in metabolic markers of obesity, but confirmed the occurrence of retinal detachment. In vitro studies using patient-derived fibroblasts showed the accelerated degradation of the encoded protein and aberrant cilium morphology and biogenesis. These findings definitely link impaired TUB function to retinal dystrophy and provide new data on the clinical characterization of this ultra-rare retinal ciliopathy.
Progress in Laser Ablation and Biological Synthesis Processes: “Top-Down” and “Bottom-Up” Approaches for the Green Synthesis of Au/Ag Nanoparticles
Authors: Jiang Zhiwen , Li Liwei , Huang Hao , He Wenbin , Ming Wuyi
Published: November 2022

Because of their small size and large specific surface area, nanoparticles (NPs) have special properties that are different from bulk materials. In particular, Au/Ag NPs have been intensively studied for a long time, especially for biomedical applications. Thereafter, they played a significant role in the fields of biology, medical testing, optical imaging, energy and catalysis, MRI contrast agents, tumor diagnosis and treatment, environmental protection, and so on. When synthesizing Au/Ag NPs, the laser ablation and biosynthesis methods are very promising green processes. Therefore, this review focuses on the progress in the laser ablation and biological synthesis processes for Au/Ag NP generation, especially in their fabrication fundamentals and potential applications. First, the fundamentals of the laser ablation method are critically reviewed, including the laser ablation mechanism for Au/Ag NPs and the controlling of their size and shape during fabrication using laser ablation. Second, the fundamentals of the biological method are comprehensively discussed, involving the synthesis principle and the process of controlling the size and shape and preparing Au/Ag NPs using biological methods. Third, the applications in biology, tumor diagnosis and treatment, and other fields are reviewed to demonstrate the potential value of Au/Ag NPs. Finally, a discussion surrounding three aspects (similarity, individuality, and complementarity) of the two green synthesis processes is presented, and the necessary outlook, including the current limitations and challenges, is suggested, which provides a reference for the low-cost and sustainable production of Au/Ag NPs in the future.
1,2-Hydrogenation and Transhydrogenation Catalyzed by 3-Ketosteroid Δ1-Dehydrogenase from Sterolibacterium denitrificans—Kinetics, Isotope Labelling and QM:MM Modelling Studies
Authors: Wojtkiewicz Agnieszka M. , Glanowski Michał , Waligórski Piotr , Janeczko Tomasz , Szaleniec Maciej
Published: November 2022

Bacteria and fungi that are able to metabolize steroids express 3-ketosteroid-Δ1-dehydrogenases (KstDs). KstDs such as AcmB form Sterolibacterium denitrificans Chol-1 catalyze the enantioselective 1α,2β-dehydrogenation of steroids to their desaturated analogues, e.g., the formation of 1,4-androstadiene-3,17-dione (ADD) from 4-androsten-3,17-dione (AD). The reaction catalyzed by KstD can be reversed if the appropriate electron donor, such as benzyl viologen radical cation, is present. Furthermore, KstDs can also catalyze transhydrogenation, which is the transfer of H atoms between 3-ketosteroids and 1-dehydrosteroids. In this paper, we showed that AcmB exhibits lower pH optima for hydrogenation and dehydrogenation by 3.5–4 pH units than those observed for KstD from Nocardia corallina. We confirmed the enantiospecificity of 1α,2β-hydrogenation and 1α,2β-transhydrogenation catalyzed by AcmB and showed that, under acidic pH conditions, deuterons are introduced not only at 2β but also at the 1α position. We observed a higher degree of H/D exchange at Y363, which activates the C2-H bond, compared to that at FAD, which is responsible for redox at the C1 position. Furthermore, for the first time, we observed the introduction of the third deuteron into the steroid core. This effect was explained through a combination of LC-MS experiments and QM:MM modelling, and we attribute it to a decrease in the enantioselectivity of C2-H activation upon the deuteration of the 2β position. The increase in the activation barrier resulting from isotopic substitution increases the chance of the formation of d3-substituted 3-ketosteroids. Finally, we demonstrate a method for the synthesis of 3-ketosteroids chirally deuterated at 1α,2β positions, obtaining 1α,2β-d2-4-androsten-3,17-dione with a 51% yield (8.61 mg).
Circular RNA Expression and Interaction Patterns Are Perturbed in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Aquilina-Reid Chiara , Brennan Samuel , Curry-Hyde Ashton , Teunisse Guus M. ,   The NYGC ALS Consortium, Janitz Michael
Published: November 2022

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a type of long noncoding RNA that are highly abundant and highly conserved throughout evolution and exhibit differential expression patterns in various tissue types in multiple diseases, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The most well-known function of circRNAs is their ability to act as microRNA (miRNA) sponges. This entails circRNA binding to miRNA, which would otherwise target and degrade messenger RNA, thus affecting gene expression. This study analyzed ALS patient samples from three spinal cord regions to investigate circular transcriptome perturbation and circular RNA–microRNA–mRNA interactions. Using stringent statistical parameters, we identified 92 differentially expressed circRNAs across the spinal cord tissues with the aim of identifying specific circRNAs with biomarker potential. We also found evidence for differential expression of 37 linear RNAs possibly due to miRNA sequestration by circRNAs, thus revealing their potential as novel biomarkers and therapeutic candidates for ALS.
DNA Damage Response in Cancer Therapy and Resistance: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Jurkovicova Dana , Neophytou Christiana M. , Gašparović Ana Čipak , Gonçalves Ana Cristina
Published: November 2022

Resistance to chemo- and radiotherapy is a common event among cancer patients and a reason why new cancer therapies and therapeutic strategies need to be in continuous investigation and development. DNA damage response (DDR) comprises several pathways that eliminate DNA damage to maintain genomic stability and integrity, but different types of cancers are associated with DDR machinery defects. Many improvements have been made in recent years, providing several drugs and therapeutic strategies for cancer patients, including those targeting the DDR pathways. Currently, poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors (PARP inhibitors) are the DDR inhibitors (DDRi) approved for several cancers, including breast, ovarian, pancreatic, and prostate cancer. However, PARPi resistance is a growing issue in clinical settings that increases disease relapse and aggravate patients’ prognosis. Additionally, resistance to other DDRi is also being found and investigated. The resistance mechanisms to DDRi include reversion mutations, epigenetic modification, stabilization of the replication fork, and increased drug efflux. This review highlights the DDR pathways in cancer therapy, its role in the resistance to conventional treatments, and its exploitation for anticancer treatment. Biomarkers of treatment response, combination strategies with other anticancer agents, resistance mechanisms, and liabilities of treatment with DDR inhibitors are also discussed.
Non-Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma: Molecular Pathogenesis, Innovative Modeling, and Targeted Therapeutic Approaches
Authors: Khoshdel Rad Niloofar , Vahidyeganeh Maryam , Mohammadi Mahsa , Shpichka Anastasia , Timashev Peter , Hossein-Khannazer Nikoo , Vosough Massoud
Published: November 2022

Non-clear cell renal cell carcinomas (nccRCC) are a diverse group of kidney cancers with histopathologically and genetically heterogeneous features. About 25% of renal cell carcinomas (RCCs) are nccRCC types. The management and treatment of nccRCCs are rather limited, and the data are often estimated from studies in the more common clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Each subtype has its own distinctive biological and therapeutic profile. Our knowledge of the underlying biological features of nccRCC has directed and continues to shape the use of novel therapy targeting the main signaling pathways and leading to improved overall survival (OS) of the patients. This review discusses the characteristic molecular features of the major types of nccRCC and current cell-based and animal models for studying them. In the following, we highlighted major signaling pathways and therapeutic approaches for nccRCC patients.
Dead Bodybuilders Speaking from the Heart: An Analysis of Autopsy Reports of Bodybuilders That Died Prematurely
Authors: Escalante Guillermo , Darrow Dillon , Ambati V. N. Pradeep , Gwartney Daniel L. , Collins Rick
Published: November 2022

This study analyzed publicly available autopsy reports of male bodybuilders under the age of 50 who reportedly died from cardiovascular-related events. A general Google search with the terms “dead bodybuilders” was performed on 10 February 2022. Six reports were available for review and analysis. Bodybuilders had the following means: age (±SD) = 36 ± 7.1 years; height 1.82 ± 0.02 m; weight = 103.8 ± 5.3 kg; weight of heart = 575 ± 134.4 g; and left ventricular myocardium thickness (n = 3) = 16.3 ± 3.5 mm. The bodybuilders analyzed had a mean heart weight that is 73.7% heavier than the reference man (575 g vs. 332 g). Similarly, 100% of the autopsies reported left ventricular myocardium thickness of 16.3 ± 3.5 mm; this is 125% thicker than normative data for men. While abuse of AASs for prolonged periods of time may contribute to some of the cardiac abnormalities present in these bodybuilders, it should be noted that cardiac hypertrophy, including left ventricular hypertrophy, has also been reported in drug-free strength athletes. Each autopsy report included cardiovascular abnormalities within the cause of death. Association does not mean causation, but nonetheless bodybuilders should be aware of potential contributing cardiovascular risks with AAS abuse.
God’s Stewards: A Global Overview of Christian-Influenced Mutual Fund Providers
Authors: Diener Joel , Habisch André
Published: November 2022

Despite a large amount of assets under management and a strong influence on the sustainable investment movement, very little is known about what ethical investing looks like from a Christian perspective. We therefore analyzed the ethical investment policies of a unique dataset of Christian-influenced mutual fund providers using a structured–thematic content analysis. In detail, we looked at investment screens, investment techniques, and the public presentation of non-financial investment objectives. We note that, by and large, there is no “Christian investing” in the sense of an ethical investment policy that most fund providers have similarly implemented. The proposed explanation for the diversity is that the policies are determined by differing approaches to interpreting biblical texts and by divergent social and political influence factors. However, we have detected a unifying element among most Christians-influenced mutual fund providers: the intention to positively influence their portfolio companies’ sustainability indicators.
Green Synthesis of Magnetic Nanoparticles of Iron Oxide Using Aqueous Extracts of Lemon Peel Waste and Its Application in Anti-Corrosive Coatings
Authors: Elizondo-Villarreal Nora , Verástegui-Domínguez Luz , Rodríguez-Batista Raúl , Gándara-Martínez Eleazar , Alcorta-García Aracelia , Martínez-Delgado Dora , Rodríguez-Castellanos Edén Amaral , Vázquez-Rodríguez Francisco , Gómez-Rodríguez Cristian
Published: November 2022

Lately, the development of green chemistry methods with high efficiency for metal nanoparticle synthesis has become a primary focus among researchers. The main goal is to find an eco-friendly technique for the production of nanoparticles. Ferro- and ferrimagnetic materials such as magnetite (Fe3O4) exhibit superparamagnetic behavior at a nanometric scale. Magnetic nanoparticles have been gaining increasing interest in nanoscience and nanotechnology. This interest is attributed to their physicochemical properties, particle size, and low toxicity. The present work aims to synthesize magnetite nanoparticles in a single step using extracts of green lemon Citrus Aurantifolia residues. The results produced nanoparticles of smaller size using a method that is friendlier to health and the environment, is more profitable, and can be applied in anticorrosive coatings. The green synthesis was carried out by a co-precipitation method under variable temperature conditions. The X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) characterization showed that magnetite nanoparticles were successfully obtained with a very narrow particle size distribution between 3 and 10 nm. A composite was produced with the nanoparticles and graphene to be used as a surface coating on steel. In addition, the coating’s anticorrosive behavior was evaluated through electrochemical techniques. The surface coating obtained showed good anticorrosive properties and resistance to abrasion.
Experimental Study on the Stability and Distribution of Air Voids in Fresh Fly Ash Concrete
Authors: Wang Yanhai , Lu Hang , Xiao Rui , Hu Wei , Huang Baoshan
Published: November 2022

The air void system purposely introduced by an air-entraining admixture (AEA) is of great significance for the protection of concrete from freeze–thaw damage. Fly ash has been globally used in concrete, while the unburnt carbon in fly ash can adsorb AEA molecules and, thus, increase the AEA demand. Previous studies primarily focused on the air content of fresh fly ash concrete. This paper aimed to explore the stability and distribution of air voids in fly ash concrete at the fresh state. To achieve this goal, eleven different fresh fly ash concrete mixtures with an initial air content of 6 ± 1% were prepared in the laboratory. Samples were taken at various times within 75 min after initial mixing to investigate the air content and air void distribution in fly ash concrete at the fresh state using a super air meter (SAM). The results indicated that there was no significant correlation between loss on ignition (LOI) of fly ash and AEA demand to achieve the initial air content of 6 ± 1%. Class C fly ash concrete tended to have a better air content retention than Class F fly ash concrete. Compared with LOI, AEA demand had a stronger correlation with air content retention. Most of the fly ash concrete mixtures had a satisfactory air void system immediately after mixing, but the SAM number showed an increasing trend over time, suggesting the coarsening of the air void system with time.
Enhanced and Selective Absorption of Molybdenum Nanostructured Surfaces for Concentrated Solar Energy Applications
Authors: Santagata Antonio , Pace Maria Lucia , Bellucci Alessandro , Mastellone Matteo , Bolli Eleonora , Valentini Veronica , Orlando Stefano , Sani Elisa , Failla Simone , Sciti Diletta , Trucchi Daniele Maria
Published: November 2022

Surfaces of commercial molybdenum (Mo) plates have been textured by fs-laser treatments with the aim to form low-cost and efficient solar absorbers and substrates for thermionic cathodes in Concentrated Solar Power conversion devices. Morphological (SEM and AFM), optical (spectrophotometry), and structural (Raman spectroscopy) properties of the samples treated at different laser fluences (from 1.8 to 14 J/cm2) have been characterized after the laser treatments and also following long thermal annealing for simulating the operating conditions of thermionic converters. A significant improvement of the solar absorptance and selectivity, with a maximum value of about four times higher than the pristine sample at a temperature of 800 K, has been detected for sample surfaces treated at intermediate fluences. The effects observed have been related to the light trapping capability of the laser-induced nanotexturing, whereas a low selectivity, together with a high absorptance, could be revealed when the highest laser fluence was employed due to a significant presence of oxide species. The ageing process confirms the performance improvement shown when treated samples are used as solar absorbers, even though, due to chemical modification occurring at the surface, a decrease of the solar absorptance takes place. Interestingly, the sample showing the highest quantity of oxides preserves more efficiently the laser texturing. The observation of this behaviour allows to extend the applicability of the laser treatments since, by further nanostructuring of the Mo oxides, it could be beneficial also for sensing applications.
Effect of Pulsed Magnetic Field on the Microstructure of QAl9-4 Aluminium Bronze and Its Mechanism
Authors: Hu Yujun , Zhao Hongjin , Li Junwei , Hu Kefu , Qin Jing
Published: November 2022

The effect of a pulsed magnetic field on the microstructure of a QAl9-4 aluminium bronze alloy was studied in this work. It was found that the dislocation density, grain boundary angle, and microhardness of the alloy significantly changed after the magnetic field treatment with a peak magnetic induction intensity of 3T, pulse duration of about 100 us, pulse interval of 10 s, and pulse time of 360. EBSD was used to test the KAM maps of the alloy microzone. It was found that the alloy’s dislocation density decreased by 10.88% after the pulsed magnetic field treatment; in particular, the dislocation in the deformed grains decreased significantly. The quantity of dislocation pile-up and the degree of distortion around the dislocation were reduced, which decreased the residual compressive stress on the alloy. Dislocation motion caused LAGB rotation, which reduced the misorientation of adjacent points inside the grain. The magnetic field induced the disappearance of deformation twins and weakened the strengthening effect of twins. The microhardness test results show that the alloy’s microhardness decreased by 8.06% after pulsed magnetic field treatment. The possible reasons for the magnetic field effect on dislocation were briefly discussed. The pulsed magnetic field might have caused the transition to the electronic energy state at the site of dislocation pinning, which led to free movement of the vacancy or impurity atom. The dislocation was easier to depin under the action of internal stress in the alloy, changing the dislocation distribution and alloy microstructure.
Laminated Glass Plates Subjected to High-Velocity Projectile Impact and Their Residual Post-Impact Performance
Authors: Konrád Petr , Hála Petr , Schmidt Jaroslav , Zemanová Alena , Sovják Radoslav
Published: November 2022

This study aims to analyze the performance of laminated glass against ballistic loading and investigates its residual load-bearing capacity. Two groups of specimens were used in quasi-static four-point bending experiments, first without prior ballistic damage and then with it. The main objective was to compare the load-bearing capacity of these two groups to see the effect of ballistic damage. Three different layer compositions were used. The ballistic loading was conducted using an in-service 9 mm bullet fired from a semiautomatic carbine with the glass specimens hanging on steel ropes in a free boundary setup. Numerical simulation and analytical methods were used and validated against the measured response of the undamaged specimens. The simulations were in good agreement with the experimental results. All of the glass specimens were able to withstand the ballistic loading, and the subsequent performance during the quasi-static bending loading was similar to that of the undamaged specimens. The quality of the glass edges seemed to be more important than ballistic damage. The front-plate damage played a negligible role, and the back-plate damage needed to be extensive to influence subsequent performance. Provided that ballistic damage is mainly localized only to the centers of the plates, it did not affect the post-impact loading capacity.
Advanced Structural Concrete Materials in Bridges
Authors: Lantsoght Eva Olivia Leontien
Published: November 2022

Many existing and newly constructed bridges are made of reinforced and prestressed concrete. Advanced concrete materials play an increasingly important role in concrete bridges, facilitating the strengthening and repair of existing bridges, fast replacement solutions for parts of existing bridges, and for the design of novel challenging bridge projects. The development of advanced concrete materials and their structural applications is, thus, an important topic in the built environment.
Multi-Objective Optimization of Process Parameters in 6016 Aluminum Alloy Hot Stamping Using Taguchi-Grey Relational Analysis
Authors: Jiang Binghe , Huang Jianghua , Ma Hongping , Zhao Huijun , Ji Hongchao
Published: November 2022

The hot stamping technology of aluminum alloy is of great significance for realizing the light weight of the automobile body, and the proper process parameters are important conditions to obtain excellent aluminum alloy parts. In this paper, the thermal deformation behavior of 6016 aluminum alloy at a high temperature is experimentally studied to provide a theoretical basis for a finite element model. With the help of blank stamping finite element software, a numerical model of a 6016 aluminum alloy automobile windshield beam during hot stamping was established. The finite element model was verified by a forming experiment. Then, the effect of the process parameters, including blank holder force, die gap, forming temperature, friction coefficient, and stamping speed on aluminum alloy formability were investigated using Taguchi design, grey relational analysis (GRA), and analysis of variance (ANOVA). Stamping tests were arranged at temperatures between 480 and 570 °C, blank holder force between 20 and 50 kN, stamping speed between 50 and 200 mm/s, die gap between 1.05 t and 1.20 t (t is the thickness of the sheet), and friction coefficient between 0.15 and 0.60. It was found that the significant factors affecting the forming quality of the hot-stamped parts were blank holder force and stamping speed, with influence significance of 28.64% and 34.09%, respectively. The optimal parameters for hot stamping of the automobile windshield beam by the above analysis are that the die gap is 1.05 t, the blank temperature is 540 °C, the coefficient of friction is 0.15, stamping speed is 200 mm/s, and blank holder force is 50 kN. The optimized maximum thickening rate is 4.87% and the maximum thinning rate is 9.00%. The optimization method used in this paper and the results of the process parameter optimization provide reference values for the optimization of hot stamping forming.
Biomass Bottom Ash as Supplementary Cementitious Material: The Effect of Mechanochemical Pre-Treatment and Mineral Carbonation
Authors: Skevi Lorena , Baki Vahiddin Alperen , Feng Yanjin , Valderrabano Maria , Ke Xinyuan
Published: November 2022

The need to mitigate the CO2 emissions deriving from the cement industry becomes imperative as the climate crisis advances. An effective strategy to achieve this is increasing the replacement level of cement clinkers by waste-derived supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs). In this study, the use of mechanochemically activated biomass ash for high-volume (up to 40%) substitution of cement is investigated. The effect of mineral carbonation treatment on the performance of the mechanochemically treated biomass ash as SCM was also examined. The results showed that the mechanochemically treated biomass ash was the most effective SCM, with the respective samples at 40% cement replacement reaching 63% of the strength at 28 days as compared to samples with 100% Portland cement, while only 17% of the strength was achieved in samples with 40% untreated biomass ash. As suggested by the isothermal calorimetry, XRD, FTIR, and TG analysis, the mechanochemical treatment enhanced the reactivity and the filler effect of the biomass ash, leading to improved mechanical performances of these mortars compared to those containing untreated biomass ash. Mineral carbonation reduced the reactivity of the mechanochemically treated biomass ash but still led to better strength performances in comparison to the untreated biomass ash.
NMR Analyses of the Enzymatic Degradation End-Products of Diabolican: The Secreted EPS of Vibrio diabolicus CNCM I-1629
Authors: Drouillard Sophie , Poulet Laurent , Boisset Claire , Delbarre-Ladrat Christine , Helbert William
Published: November 2022

Diabolican, or HE800, is an exopolysaccharide secreted by the non-pathogenic Gram-negative marine bacterium Vibrio diabolicus (CNCM I-1629). This polysaccharide was enzymatically degraded by the Bacteroides cellulosilyticus WH2 hyaluronan lyase. The end products were purified by size-exclusion chromatography and their structures were analyzed in depth by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). The oligosaccharide structures confirmed the possible site of cleavage of the enzyme showing plasticity in the substrate recognitions. The production of glycosaminoglycan-mimetic oligosaccharides of defined molecular weight and structure opens new perspectives in the valorization of the marine polysaccharide diabolican.
Acute Toxicity by Oral Co-Exposure to Palytoxin and Okadaic Acid in Mice
Authors: Sosa Silvio , Pelin Marco , Ponti Cristina , Carlin Michela , Tubaro Aurelia
Published: November 2022

The frequent occurrence of marine dinoflagellates producing palytoxin (PLTX) or okadaic acid (OA) raises concern for the possible co-presence of these toxins in seafood, leading to additive or synergistic adverse effects in consumers. Thus, the acute oral toxicity of PLTX and OA association was evaluated in mice: groups of eight female CD-1 mice were administered by gavage with combined doses of PLTX (30, 90 or 270 μg/kg) and OA (370 μg/kg), or with each individual toxin, recording signs up to 24 h (five mice) and 14 days (three mice). Lethal effects occurred only after PLTX (90 or 270 μg/kg) exposure, alone or combined with OA, also during the 14-day recovery. PLTX induced scratching, piloerection, abdominal swelling, muscle spasms, paralysis and dyspnea, which increased in frequency or duration when co-administered with OA. The latter induced only diarrhea. At 24 h, PLTX (90 or 270 μg/kg) and OA caused wall redness in the small intestine or pale fluid accumulation in its lumen, respectively. These effects co-occurred in mice co-exposed to PLTX (90 or 270 μg/kg) and OA, and were associated with slight ulcers and inflammation at forestomach. PLTX (270 μg/kg alone or 90 μg/kg associated with OA) also decreased the liver/body weight ratio, reducing hepatocyte glycogen (270 μg/kg, alone or combined with OA). No alterations were recorded in surviving mice after 14 days. Overall, the study suggests additive effects of PLTX and OA that should be considered for their risk assessment as seafood contaminants.
Pulsed Magnetic Stimulation for Stress Urinary Incontinence and Its Impact on Sexuality and Health
Authors: González-Isaza Pablo , Sánchez-Borrego Rafael , Lugo Salcedo Félix , Rodríguez Nuria , Vélez Rizo Diana , Fusco Irene , Callarelli Silvia
Published: November 2022

It is becoming increasingly common that patients’ preferences move towards non-surgical approaches, such as pulsed magnetic stimulation, for female stress urinary incontinence. Objective: We evaluated the efficacy and safety of a device that uses electromagnetic technology to treat urinary incontinence, with an emphasis on health-related quality of life. Methods: A total of 47 female subjects from 18 to 80 years old were enrolled. After block randomization, treatment consisted of 2 pulsed planar magnetic stimulation sessions per week for 4 weeks (8 sessions). Validated questionnaires: Female Sexual Function Index, International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire for Urinary Incontinence: Short Form, and Pelvic Floor Bothersome. Follow-ups were performed at weeks 1, 9, and 14. Results: The present study is one of the first clinical trials published evaluating the efficacy and safety of the electromagnetism-based device with flat configuration in patients with stress urinary incontinence, showing a reduction in PFBQ, ICQSF, and Oxford test scores during follow-up, and significantly at week 14 of follow-up, which implied a favorable impact on clinical outcomes, quality of life, and sexuality. Conclusions: The improved results in the treatment group compared with the simulated group show that pulsed magnetic stimulation is a safe and attractive non-invasive alternative for patients who prefer non-surgical treatments.
Online Monitoring and Control of Butt-Welded Joint Penetration during GMAW
Authors: Xu Xingwang , Wang Yiming , Han Jing , Lu Jun , Zhao Zhuang
Published: November 2022

Butt welding is an important link to ensure welding quality, and the penetration state of the weld is the main criterion to achieve this. Online monitoring and control of the penetration state of welded joints is an important measure to ensure welding quality. The molten pool image is monitored by a visual sensor in the gas metal arc welding (GMAW) process, and the bottom molten pool width is predicted by the regression network model. Combined with the real-time control method, the welding current is changed to monitor and control the bottom weld width in real time. Butt-welding experiments with different groove angles verified that the proposed method could achieve satisfactory control accuracy and generalization ability. For butt-welding experiments with constant groove angles of 30° and 45°, the MAE of the controlled backside melt width to the target values was 0.2603 mm and 0.2620 mm. Therefore, it provides a feasible method for the online control of weld penetration.
Effect of Intercritical Deformation on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Quenching and Partitioning Low Carbon Multiphase High-Strength Steel
Authors: Yao Zhiqiang , Zhang Mingshan , Zhang Yuan , Li Hongbin , Xu Haiwei , Tian Yaqiang , Chen Liansheng
Published: November 2022

Low carbon multiphase high strength steel is widely used in the automobile industry. In this work, the effect of intercritical deformation on the partitioning of alloying elements and the evolution of microstructure, as well as the effect of retained austenite stability on mechanical properties, were studied in a low carbon steel. The results demonstrate that the intercritical deformation enhances the C, Mn partition from ferrite to austenite during annealing at 770 ℃, and the volume fraction of the retained austenite increased from 8.8% to 12.3%. The DIQ&PB sample shows good balance between strength (1226.5 MPa) and ductility (24.4%), whose product of strength and elongation reached a larger value of 29926.6 MPa·% due to the intercritical deformation. This research provides theoretical guidance for the process design of automobile high-strength steels, considering the integration between rolling and heat cycles.