bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevention of New Respiratory Episodes in Children with Recurrent Respiratory Infections: An Expert Consensus Statement from the World Association of Infectious Diseases and Immunological Disorders (WAidid)
Authors: Esposito Susanna , Jones Marcus Herbert , Feleszko Wojciech , Martell José A. Ortega , Falup-Pecurariu Oana , Geppe Natalia , Martinón-Torres Federico , Shen Kun-Ling , Roth Michael , Principi Nicola
Published: November 2020

In healthy infants and young children, the development of respiratory tract infections (RTIs) is extremely common. In this paper, we present an international consensus of the available approaches for the prevention of recurrent RTIs in children, including the atopic/allergic ones as well as those with asthma. Few convincing measures for reducing the frequency and clinical relevance of recurrent respiratory episodes in RTI-prone children have been developed until now. Among the most recently suggested measures, immunotherapy is attractive, but only for OM-85 is there a sufficient number of well-conducted clinical trials confirming efficacy in RTIs prevention with an adequate safety profile. In the case of probiotics, it is not clear which bacteria can offer the best results and which dosage and schedule of administration are the most effective. The problems of dosage and the schedule of administration are not solved also for vitamin D, despite some promising efficacy results. While we wait for new knowledge, the elimination or reduction as much as possible of the environmental factors that favor RTIs, vaccination when available and/or indicated, and the systematic application of the traditional methods for infection prevention, such as hand washing, remain the best measures to prevent recurrent infections in RTI-prone children.
Soil Carbon Sequestration Due to Salt-Affected Soil Amelioration with Coal Bio-Briquette Ash: A Case Study in Northeast China
Authors: Sakai Yuji , Nakamura Masataka , Wang Chang
Published: November 2020

Increasing soil carbon storage and biomass utilization is an effective process for mitigating global warming. Coal bio-briquettes (CBB) are made using two low-ranked coals with high sulfur content, corn stalks, and calcium hydroxide, and the combustion ash can ameliorate the physicochemical properties in salt-affected soil. CBB ash contains mainly calcium compounds, such as calcium sulfate, calcium hydroxide, and calcium carbonate, and coal fly ash and biomass ash. In this paper, changes in soil carbon and nitrogen content through salt-affected soil amelioration during 5 months using two CBB ashes and pig manure were examined in Northeast China. Application rates of CBB ash were 0 tha−1 (control), 11.6 tha−1, 23.2 tha−1, 46.4 tha−1, and 69.6 tha−1. Consequently, total carbon content in topsoil (0–0.15 m) after harvest of maize in all test fields indicated a range between 27.7 tCha−1 and 50.2 tCha−1, and showed increased levels compared to untreated salt-affected soil. In a 3.0% (69.6 tha−1) application plot of only CBB ash with higher carbon and higher exchangeable Ca2+, the carbon content increased by 51.5% compared to control plot, and changes in carbon sequestration compared to untreated soil was roughly twice that of the control plot. CBB ash contributed to carbon application and pig manure supply as a form of N fertilization in the case of all test plots. Changes in carbon content due to soil amelioration have a significant relationship with changes in corn production and soil chemical properties, such as pH, Na+, Cl−, sodium adsorption ratio (SAR), and exchangeable sodium percentage (ESP). Therefore, CBB production from low-ranked coal and waste biomass, and the use of CBB ash in agriculture is advocated as an effective means for sequestering carbon.
Relationships between Alluvial Facies/Depositional Environments, Detrital Zircon U-Pb Geochronology, and Bulk-Rock Geochemistry in the Cretaceous Neungju Basin (Southwest Korea)
Authors: Lee Hyojong , Kwon Min Gyu , Shin Seungwon , Cho Hyeongseong , Kim Jong-Sun , Roh Yul , Huh Min , Choi Taejin
Published: November 2020

Zircon U-Pb geochronology and bulk-rock geochemistry analyses were carried out to investigate their relationship with depositional environments of the non-marine Neungju Basin sediments in South Korea. The Neungju Basin was formed in an active continental margin setting during the Late Cretaceous with associated volcanism. Detrital zircon age distributions of the Neungju Basin reveal that the source rocks surrounding the basin supplied sediments into the basin from all directions, making different zircon age populations according to the depositional environments. Mudstone geochemistry with support of detrital zircon U-Pb age data reveals how the heterogeneity affects the geochemical characteristics of tectonic setting and weathering intensity. The sediments in the proximal (alluvial fan to sandflat) and distal (playa lake) environments differ compositionally because sediment mixing occurred exclusively in the distal environment. The proximal deposits show a passive margin signature, reflecting their derivation from the adjacent metamorphic and granitic basement rocks. The distal deposits properly indicate an active continental margin setting due to the additional supply of reworked volcaniclastic sediments. The proximal deposits indicate a minor degree of chemical weathering corresponding to fossil and sedimentological records of the basin, whereas the distal deposits show lower weathering intensity by reworking of unaltered volcaniclastic detritus from unstable volcanic and volcaniclastic terranes. Overall, this study highlights that compositional data obtained from a specific location and depositional environments may not describe the overall characteristic of the basin.
Comprehensive Density Functional Theory Studies of Vibrational Spectra of Carbonates
Authors: Zhuravlev Yurii N. , Atuchin Victor V.
Published: November 2020

Within the framework of the density functional theory (DFT) and the hybrid functional B3LYP by means of the CRYSTAL17 program code, the wavenumbers and intensities of normal oscillations of MgCO3, CaCO3, ZnCO3, CdCO3 in the structure of calcite; CaMg(CO3)2, CdMg(CO3)2, CaMn(CO3)2, CaZn(CO3)2 in the structure of dolomite; BaMg(CO3)2 in the structure of the norsethite type; and CaCO3, SrCO3, BaCO3, and PbCO3 in the structure of aragonite were calculated. Infrared absorption and Raman spectra were compared with the known experimental data of synthetic and natural crystals. For lattice and intramolecular modes, linear dependences on the radius and mass of the metal cation are established. The obtained dependences have predictive power and can be used to study solid carbonate solutions. For trigonal and orthorhombic carbonates, the linear dependence of wavenumbers on the cation radius RM (or M–O distance) is established for the infrared in-plane bending mode: 786.2–65.88·RM and Raman in-plane stretching mode: 768.5–53.24·RM, with a correlation coefficient of 0.87.
Circulatory and Urinary B-Vitamin Responses to Multivitamin Supplement Ingestion Differ between Older and Younger Adults
Authors: Sharma Pankaja , Han Soo Min , Gillies Nicola , Thorstensen Eric B. , Goy Michael , Barnett Matthew P. G. , Roy Nicole C. , Cameron-Smith David , Milan Amber M.
Published: November 2020

Multivitamin and mineral (MVM) supplements are frequently used amongst older populations to improve adequacy of micronutrients, including B-vitamins, but evidence for improved health outcomes are limited and deficiencies remain prevalent. Although this may indicate poor efficacy of supplements, this could also suggest the possibility for altered B-vitamin bioavailability and metabolism in older people. This open-label, single-arm acute parallel study, conducted at the Liggins Institute Clinical Research Unit in Auckland, compared circulatory and urinary B-vitamer responses to MVM supplementation in older (70.1 ± 2.7 y, n = 10 male, n = 10 female) compared to younger (24.2 ± 2.8 y, n = 10 male, n = 10 female) participants for 4 h after the ingestion of a single dose of a commercial MVM supplement and standardized breakfast. Older adults had a lower area under the curve (AUC) of postprandial plasma pyridoxine (p = 0.02) and pyridoxal-5′phosphate (p = 0.03) forms of vitamin B6 but greater 4-pyridoxic acid AUC (p = 0.009). Urinary pyridoxine and pyridoxal excretion were higher in younger females than in older females (time × age × sex interaction, p < 0.05). Older adults had a greater AUC increase in plasma thiamine (p = 0.01), riboflavin (p = 0.009), and pantothenic acid (p = 0.027). In older adults, there was decreased plasma responsiveness of the ingested (pyridoxine) and active (pyridoxal-5′phosphate) forms of vitamin B6, which indicated a previously undescribed alteration in either absorption or subsequent metabolic interconversion. While these findings cannot determine whether acute B6 responsiveness is adequate, this difference may have potential implications for B6 function in older adults. Although this may imply higher B vitamin substrate requirements for older people, further work is required to understand the implications of postprandial differences in availability.
A Lower Sodium Neapolitan Pizza Prepared with Seawater in Place of Salt: Nutritional Properties, Sensory Characteristics, and Metabolic Effects
Authors: Iaccarino Idelson Paola , Russo Ornella , Iacone Roberto , D’Elia Lanfranco , Giacco Rosalba , Volpe Maria Grazie , Strazzullo Pasquale
Published: November 2020

Seawater is rich in minerals which may help confer good palatability to foods, favouring the use of smaller amounts of salt, a recognized measure of cardiovascular prevention. The aim of this study was to investigate the nutritional properties, sensory characteristics and metabolic effects of a typical Neapolitan pizza prepared with seawater (SWP) in place of common salt, in comparison with Standard traditional Pizza (StP). The nutritional characteristics and the chemical profile of the SWP and StP were assessed by chemical analyses and the use of Food Composition Tables. Twelve healthy volunteers were recruited for a Randomized Controlled Trial, with the consumption of one StP and one SWP using a balanced crossover design. The satiating power and palatability of the two pizzas were tested by the administration of Visual Analogue Scales. Serum glucose, insulin and sodium were measured every 30 min and 3 h urines were collected after each meal. SWP contained nearly 50% less NaCl and a larger amount of micronutrients compared with StP. No significant differences were detected between the two pizzas with regard to satiating power, pleasantness and glycemic and insulinemic response. However, a significant difference was found in the urine volume collected over the 3 h after the two meals (194 mL after StP vs. 292 mL after SWP, p = 0.018) and in the 3 h sodium balance (+1.6 g after StP vs. +0.5 g after SWP, p = 0.002). Conclusions: SWP appears to be a food with favourable nutritional characteristics, very good acceptability and healthy metabolic properties: these results warrant confirmation by a larger intervention trial.
First Report of a Severe Outbreak of Aujeszky’s Disease in Cattle in Sicily (Italy)
Authors: Ciarello Flavia Pruiti , Capucchio Maria Teresa , Ippolito Dorotea , Colombino Elena , Gibelli Lucia Rita Maria , Fiasconaro Michele , Moreno Martin Ana Maria , Di Marco Lo Presti Vincenzo
Published: November 2020

Aujeszky’s disease in cattle is caused by Suid herpes virus 1. The natural infection has been reported worldwide in bovine species and it is related to direct and indirect contact with infected pigs, which represent the main reservoir of the virus. Here, it is reported the first documented outbreak of Aujeszky’s disease in cattle in Sicily (Italy). Severe itching and nonspecific neurological symptoms were the main reported clinical signs. No characteristic gross and histological features were reported other than cutaneous lesions caused by excessive pruritus and hyperaemia, haemorrhages and inflammation in the central nervous system. Diagnosis was confirmed by real time PCR and immunohistochemistry on the nervous tissue. The route of infection remained unknown, but serological data observed in pigs living in close cohabitation with cattle revealed a circulation of a wild strain of the virus in the area. This study contributes to a better knowledge of this disease in a non-conventional host and suggests the need to increase the prophylaxis control plans in specific breeding contexts.
Genetic Diversity and Zoonotic Potential of Blastocystis in Korean Water Deer, Hydropotes inermis argyropus
Authors: Kim Kyoo-Tae , Noh Gyeonguk , Lee Haeseung , Kim Seon-Hee , Jeong Hyesung , Kim Yongkwan , Jheong Weon-Hwa , Oem Jae-Ku , Kim Tae-Hwan , Kwon Oh-Deog , Kwak Dongmi
Published: November 2020

Blastocystis is a protozoan parasite commonly detected in the intestinal tract of humans and animals. It has been actively studied worldwide; however, information on Blastocystis is limited in Korea. Because there is an increasing concern about the contact between wildlife and domestic animals or humans, we assessed the infection status and zoonotic potential of Blastocystis in Korean water deer (KWD, Hydropotes inermis argyropus) using genotyping and phylogenetic analysis. A total of 125 fresh fecal samples were collected from KWD which were killed by vehicles on highways or roadsides in this study. Among the 125 samples, 51 (40.8%) were PCR positive. We performed nucleotide sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of 26 of the 51 PCR-positive samples. By analyzing Blastocystis 18S rRNA, two subtypes (ST4 and ST14) were identified in this study. Of the 26 samples analyzed, 25 were identified as ST14 and one as ST4. Infection of ST14 in humans has not been reported. Although only one ST4 sample was detected in this study, ST4 has zoonotic potential without showing ruminant specificity. Thus, continuous attention should be provided to the potential of transmission between wildlife and domestic animals and humans.
Blueberry Consumption Challenges Hepatic Mitochondrial Bioenergetics and Elicits Transcriptomics Reprogramming in Healthy Wistar Rats
Authors: Nunes Sara , Viana Sofia D. , Preguiça Inês , Alves André , Fernandes Rosa , Teodoro João S. , Figueirinha Artur , Salgueiro Lígia , Silva Sara , Jarak Ivana , Carvalho Rui A. , Cavadas Cláudia , Rolo Anabela P. , Palmeira Carlos M. , Pintado Maria M. , Reis Flávio
Published: November 2020

An emergent trend of blueberries’ (BB) “prophylactic” consumption, due to their phytochemicals’ richness and well-known health-promoting claims, is widely scaled-up. However, the benefits arising from BB indiscriminate intake remains puzzling based on incongruent preclinical and human data. To provide a more in-depth elucidation and support towards a healthier and safer consumption, we conducted a translation-minded experimental study in healthy Wistar rats that consumed BB in a juice form (25 g/kg body weight (BW)/day; 14 weeks’ protocol). Particular attention was paid to the physiological adaptations succeeding in the gut and liver tissues regarding the acknowledged BB-induced metabolic benefits. Systemically, BB boosted serum antioxidant activity and repressed the circulating levels of 3-hydroxybutyrate (3-HB) ketone bodies and 3-HB/acetoacetate ratio. Moreover, BB elicited increased fecal succinic acid levels without major changes on gut microbiota (GM) composition and gut ultra-structural organization. Remarkably, an accentuated hepatic mitochondrial bioenergetic challenge, ensuing metabolic transcriptomic reprogramming along with a concerted anti-inflammatory pre-conditioning, was clearly detected upon long-term consumption of BB phytochemicals. Altogether, the results disclosed herein portray a quiescent mitochondrial-related metabolomics and hint for a unified adaptive response to this nutritional challenge. The beneficial or noxious consequences arising from this dietary trend should be carefully interpreted and necessarily claims future research.
Highly Red Light-Emitting Erbium- and Lutetium-Doped Core-Shell Upconverting Nanoparticles Surface-Modified with PEG-Folic Acid/TCPP for Suppressing Cervical Cancer HeLa Cells
Authors: Lim Kyungseop , Kim Hwang Kyung , Le Xuan Thien , Nguyen Nguyen Thi , Lee Eun Seong , Oh Kyung Taek , Choi Han-Gon , Youn Yu Seok
Published: November 2020

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) combined with upconverting nanoparticles (UCNPs) are viewed together as an effective method of ablating tumors. After absorbing highly tissue-penetrating near-infrared (NIR) light, UCNPs emit a shorter wavelength light (~660 nm) suitable for PDT. In this study, we designed and prepared highly red fluorescence-emitting silica-coated core-shell upconverting nanoparticles modified with polyethylene glycol (PEG5k)-folic acid and tetrakis(4-carboxyphenyl)porphyrin (TCPP) (UCNPs@SiO2-NH2@FA/PEG/TCPP) as an efficient photodynamic agent for killing tumor cells. The UCNPs consisted of two simple lanthanides, erbium and lutetium, as the core and shell, respectively. The unique core-shell combination enabled the UCNPs to emit red light without green light. TCPP, folic acid, and PEG were conjugated to the outer silica layer of UCNPs as a photosensitizing agent, a ligand for tumor attachment, and a dispersing stabilizer, respectively. The prepared UCNPs of ~50 nm diameter and −34.5 mV surface potential absorbed 808 nm light and emitted ~660 nm red light. Most notably, these UCNPs were physically well dispersed and stable in the aqueous phase due to PEG attachment and were able to generate singlet oxygen (1O2) with a high efficacy. The HeLa cells were treated with each UCNP sample (0, 1, 5, 10, 20, 30 μg/mL as a free TCPP). The results showed that the combination of UCNPs@SiO2-NH2@FA/PEG/TCPP and the 808 nm laser was significantly cytotoxic to HeLa cells, almost to the same degree as naïve TCPP plus the 660 nm laser based on MTT and Live/Dead assays. Furthermore, the UCNPs@SiO2-NH2@FA/PEG/TCPP was well internalized into HeLa cells and three-dimensional HeLa spheroids, presumably due to the surface folic acid and small size in conjunction with endocytosis and the nonspecific uptake. We believe that our UCNPs@SiO2-NH2@FA/PEG/TCPP will serve as a new platform for highly efficient and deep-penetrating photodynamic agents suitable for various tumor treatments.
Erratum: Filip, S.; et al. Therapeutic Apheresis, Circulating PLD, and Mucocutaneous Toxicity: Our Clinical Experience through Four Years. Pharmaceutics 2020, 12, 940
Authors: Filip Stanislav , Kubeček Ondřej , Špaček Jiří , Lánská Miriam , Bláha Milan
Published: November 2020

The following correction has been made to this paper [...]
Potentially Inappropriate Medication Use in Older Hospitalized Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Sharma Rishabh , Chhabra Manik , Vidyasagar Kota , Rashid Muhammed , Fialova Daniela , Bhagavathula Akshaya S.
Published: November 2020

Background: Older patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are at greater risk of receiving potentially inappropriate medications (PIM) during hospitalization which may result in adverse outcomes. Aim: To evaluate the extent of PIM use in the older population with T2DM during hospitalization in a tertiary care hospital in India. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out from August 2019 to January 2020 in a tertiary care teaching hospital among the older population (aged ≥ 65 years) hospitalized with T2DM. Medications prescribed during hospitalization were reviewed following Beers Criteria 2019 to identify the extent of polypharmacy and PIM use. Binary logistic regression was applied to determine the factors associated with PIM use. Results: The mean age of the 150 patients hospitalized with T2DM was 68.85 ± 5.51 years, most of whom were men (54.7%). The participants had at least four comorbidities and were receiving an average of nine medications per day; the median length of hospital stay was 8 days (interquartile range (IQR): 4–19 days). Overall, three quarters (74%) of the participants had at least one PIM prescribed during their hospitalization as per Beers Criteria. Significant factors associated with the use of PIM during hospitalization are patients taking a higher number of medications (odds ratio (OR): 7.85, 95% CI 1.49–41.10), lower creatinine clearance values (OR: 12.90, 95% CI 2.81–59.28) and female patients (OR: 2.29; 95% CI: 1.05–4.97). Conclusions: PIM use is frequently observed in older T2DM patients during hospitalization. Polypharmacy, reduced renal function and female gender are associated with higher PIM use. Engaging clinical pharmacists in evaluating medication appropriateness can improve the outcomes of older patients.
Genetic Improvement of Arundo donax L.: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Danelli Tommaso , Laura Marina , Savona Marco , Landoni Michela , Adani Fabrizio , Pilu Roberto
Published: November 2020

Arundo donax L., the giant reed—being a long-duration, low-cost, non-food energy crop able to grow in marginal lands—has emerged as a potential alternative to produce biomass for both energy production, with low carbon emissions, and industrial bioproducts. In recent years, pioneering efforts have been made to genetically improve this very promising energy crop. This review analyses the recent advances and challenges encountered in using clonal selection, mutagenesis/somaclonal variation and transgenesis/genome editing. Attempts to improve crop yield, in vitro propagation efficiency, salt and heavy metal tolerance by clonal selection were carried out, although limited by the species’ low genetic diversity and availability of mutants. Mutagenesis and somaclonal variation have also been attempted on this species; however, since Arundo donax is polyploid, it is very difficult to induce and select promising mutations. In more recent years, genomics and transcriptomics data are becoming available in Arundo, closing the gap to make possible the genetic manipulation of this energy crop in the near future. The challenge will regard the functional characterization of the genes/sequences generated by genomic sequencing and transcriptomic analysis in a complex polyploid genome.
Comparison of Soaking Corms with Moringa Leaf Extract Alone or in Combination with Synthetic Plant Growth Regulators on the Growth, Physiology and Vase Life of Sword Lily
Authors: Zulfiqar Faisal , Younis Adnan , Finnegan Patrick M. , Ferrante Antonio
Published: November 2020

Gladiolus is in demand worldwide as a cut-flower or landscaping plant, because of its superior commercial and ornamental value. Application of plant-based biostimulants has gained interest in the horticulture industry as an innovative and promising approach to ensure enhanced and sustainable yields along with better product quality. The influence of pre-plant corm soaks supplemented to 5% (v/v) with an aqueous extract from Moringa oleifera leaves (MLE) either alone or in combination with 50 mg/L salicylic acid (SA) or 50 mg/L gibberellic acid (GA) on the vegetative, physiological, and ornamental characteristics of potted gladiolus (Gladiolus grandiflorus) was investigated. In general, the treatment order for greatest horticultural value for all the parameters examined was: MLE + SA + GA > MLE + GA or SA individually > MLE alone > water-only control. Compared to other treatments, corms soaked in MLE + SA + GA had the earliest sprout time (3.7 days earlier than control), shortest production time (11 days earlier than control), tallest plant (159.5 cm), greatest number of leaves per plant (8.85 leaves), greatest maximum leaf area (66 cm2), highest SPAD reading (112) and photosynthetic activity (6.7 mmol m−2 s−1), longest spike length (91 cm), greatest number of florets per spike (20 florets), longest vase life (14.8 days), greatest N (1.53%), P (0.28%), and K (0.64%) concentrations, and largest corm diameter (4.68 cm) and mass (22.25 g). The highest total protein and proline concentrations were observed with the combined application of MLE + GA + SA. Our findings suggested that MLE either alone or in combination with other plant growth regulators not only increased the yield and quality of cut spikes, but also prolonged the vase life of cut gladiolus.
Effects of Natural Sorbents on the Germination and Early Growth of Grasses on Soils Contaminated by Potentially Toxic Elements
Authors: Turisová Ingrid , Kviatková Tatiana , Możdżeń Katarzyna , Barabasz-Krasny Beata
Published: November 2020

The reclamation of abandoned mining heaps rich in potentially toxic elements (PTEs) is critical for the environment. We carried out a laboratory experiment studying the effects of the addition of four natural sorbents (biochar, bentonite, chicken manure and organo-zeolitic substrate) to soils contaminated with PTEs, predominantly Cu, As and Sb, on the germination and growth of the autochthonous grasses Agrostis capillaris, A. stolonifera, Festuca rubra and Poa pratensis. The experiment used Petri dish tests with water extracts of contaminated soil and soil neutralised with the four sorbents. Standard indexes of the germination process were used (germination percentage, time required for 50% germination index, speed of emergence), and different values were found depending on the plant species and sorbent used. However, the percentage of seeds germinating was lower for each sorbent compared to the control (distilled water). The fresh mass values were positively stimulated by all sorbents. Electrolyte leakage was the highest in seedlings watered with an extract of untreated soil from the heap compared to extracts from treated soils and the control. This can be interpreted as eliminating the harmful effects of increased potentially toxic element (PTE) contents by sorbents, which can be useful in remediation processes.
Effect of Prestrain on the Actuation Characteristics of Dielectric Elastomers
Authors: Kumar Mayank , Sharma Anutsek , Hait Sakrit , Wießner Sven , Heinrich Gert , Arief Injamamul , Naskar Kinsuk , Stöckelhuber Klaus Werner , Das Amit
Published: November 2020

Dielectric elastomers (DEs) represent a class of electroactive polymers that deform due to electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged electrodes under a varying electric field. Over the last couple of decades, DEs have garnered considerable attention due to their much-coveted actuation properties. As far as the precise measurement systems are concerned, however, there is no standard instrument or interface to quantify various related parameters, e.g., actuation stress, strain, voltage and creeping etc. In this communication, we present an in-depth study of dielectric actuation behavior of dielectric rubbers by the state-of-the-art “Dresden Smart Rubber Analyzer” (DSRA), designed and developed in-house. The instrument allowed us to elucidate various factors that could influence the output efficiency of the DEs. Herein, several non-conventional DEs such as hydrogenated nitrile rubber, nitrile rubber with different acrylonitrile contents, were employed as an electro-active matrix. The effect of viscoelastic creeping on the prestrain, molecular architecture of the matrices, e.g., nitrile content of nitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR) etc., are also discussed in detail.
Backpressure Optimization in Foam Injection Molding: Method and Assessment of Sustainability
Authors: Kastner Clemens , Mitterlehner Thomas , Altmann Dominik , Steinbichler Georg
Published: November 2020

Inspired by the Industry 4.0 trend towards greater user-friendliness and self-optimization of machines, we present a novel approach to reducing backpressure in foam injection molding. Our method builds on the compressibility of polymer-gas mixtures to detect undissolved gas phases during processing at insufficient backpressures. Identification of a characteristic behavior of the bulk modulus upon transition from homogeneous to heterogeneous polymer-gas mixtures facilitated the determination of the minimum pressure required during production to be determined, as verified by ultrasound measurements. Optimization of the pressure conditions inside the barrel by means of our approach saves resources, making the process more sustainable. Our method yielded a 45% increase in plasticizing capacity, reduced the torque needed by 24%, and required 46% less plasticizing work and lower pressures in the gas supply chain. The components produced exhibited both improved mechanical bending properties and lower densities. From an economic point of view, the main advantages of optimized backpressures are reduced wear and lower energy consumption. The methodology presented in this study has considerable potential in terms of sustainable production and offers the prospect of fully autonomous process optimization.
Nanofibers-Based Piezoelectric Energy Harvester for Self-Powered Wearable Technologies
Authors: Mokhtari Fatemeh , Shamshirsaz Mahnaz , Latifi Masoud , Foroughi Javad
Published: November 2020

The demands for wearable technologies continue to grow and novel approaches for powering these devices are being enabled by the advent of new energy materials and novel manufacturing strategies. In addition, decreasing the energy consumption of portable electronic devices has created a huge demand for the development of cost-effective and environment friendly alternate energy sources. Energy harvesting materials including piezoelectric polymer with its special properties make this demand possible. Herein, we develop a flexible and lightweight nanogenerator package based on polyvinyledene fluoride (PVDF)/LiCl electrospun nanofibers. The piezoelectric performance of the developed nanogenator is investigated to evaluate effect of the thickness of the as-spun mat on the output voltage using a vibration and impact test. It is found that the output voltage increases from 1.3 V to 5 V by adding LiCl as additive into the spinning solution compared with pure PVDF. The prepared PVDF/LiCl nanogenerator is able to generate voltage and current output of 3 V and 0.5 μA with a power density output of 0.3 μW cm−2 at the frequency of 200 Hz. It is found also that the developed nanogenerator can be utilized as a sensor to measure temperature changes from 30 °C to 90 °C under static pressure. The developed electrospun temperature sensor showed sensitivity of 0.16%/°C under 100 Pa pressure and 0.06%/°C under 220 Pa pressure. The obtained results suggested the developed energy harvesting textiles have promising applications for various wearable self-powered electrical devices and systems.
Experimental Investigation and Constitutive Modeling of the Uncured Rubber Compound Based on the DMA Strain Scanning Method
Authors: Li Yong , Sun Xunhua , Zhang Shoudong , Miao Yanan , Han Shanling
Published: November 2020

Existing research tends to focus on the performance of cured rubber. This is due to a lack of suitable testing methods for the mechanical properties of uncured rubber, in particular, tensile properties. Without crosslinking by sulfur, the tensile strength of uncured rubber compounds is too low to be accurately tested by general tensile testing machines. Firstly, a new tensile stress testing method for uncured rubber was established by using dynamic thermomechanical analysis (DMA) tensile strain scanning. The strain amplitude was increased under a set frequency and constant temperature. The corresponding dynamic force needed to maintain the amplitude was then measured to obtain the dynamic force-amplitude curve observed at this temperature and frequency. Secondly, the Burgers model is usually difficult to calculate and analyze in differential form, so it was reduced to its arithmetic form under creep conditions and material relaxation. Tensile deformation at a constant strain rate was proposed, so the Burgers model could be modified to a more concise form without any strain terms, making mathematical processing and simulating much more convenient. Thirdly, the rate of the modified Burgers model under constant strain was in good agreement with the test data, demonstrating that the elastic stiffness was 1–2 orders of magnitude less than the tensile viscosity. In the end, it was concluded that large data dispersion caused by the universal tensile test can be overcome by choosing this model, and it may become an effective way to study the tensile modeling of uncured rubber compound.
Characteristics of the Non-Isothermal and Isothermal Crystallization for the β Polymorph in PVDF by Fast Scanning Calorimetry
Authors: Pérez Ernesto , Angulo Irene , Blázquez-Blázquez Enrique , Cerrada María L.
Published: November 2020

Structuring at very high rates has become one of the current and important topics of interest in polymer science, because this is a common protocol in the processing of films or fibers with industrial applicability. This work presents the study by fast scanning calorimetry, FSC, of poly(vinylidene fluoride), paying special attention to the conditions for obtaining the β phase of this polymer, because it is the one technologically more interesting. The results indicate that this β phase of poly(vinylidene fluoride) is obtained when the sample is isothermally crystallized at temperatures below 60 °C. Under non-isothermal conditions, the β polymorph begins to be observed at rates above 400 °C/s, although a coexistence with the α modification is observed, so that exclusively the β phase is obtained only at rates higher than 3000 °C/s.
Ballistic Performance of Ramie Fabric Reinforcing Graphene Oxide-Incorporated Epoxy Matrix Composite
Authors: Pereira Artur , Lima Andreza , Demosthenes Luana , Oliveira Michelle , Costa Ulisses , Bezerra Wendell , Monteiro Sergio , Rodriguez Ruben , Deus Janine , Anacleto Pinheiro Wagner
Published: November 2020

Graphene oxide (GO) incorporation in natural fiber composites has recently defined a novel class of materials with enhanced properties for applications, including ballistic armors. In the present work, the performance of a 0.5 vol % GO-incorporated epoxy matrix composite reinforced with 30 vol % fabric made of ramie fibers was investigated by stand-alone ballistic tests against the threat of a 0.22 lead projectile. Composite characterization was also performed by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, thermal analysis and X-ray diffraction. Ballistic tests disclosed an absorbed energy of 130 J, which is higher than those reported for other natural fabrics epoxy composite, 74–97 J, as well as plain Kevlar (synthetic aramid fabric), 100 J, with the same thickness. This is attributed to the improved adhesion between the ramie fabric and the composite matrix due to the GO—incorporated epoxy. The onset of thermal degradation above 300 °C indicates a relatively higher working temperature as compared to common natural fiber polymer composites. DSC peaks show a low amount of heat absorbed or release due to glass transition endothermic (113–121 °C) and volatile release exothermic (~132 °C) events. The 1030 cm−1 prominent FTIR band, associated with GO bands between epoxy chains and graphene oxide groups, suggested an effective distribution of GO throughout the composite matrix. As expected, XRD of the 30 vol % ramie fabric-reinforced GO-incorporated epoxy matrix composite confirmed the displacement of the (0 0 1) peak of GO by 8° due to intercalation of epoxy chains into the spacing between GO layers. By improving the adhesion to the ramie fabric and enhancing the thermal stability of the epoxy matrix, as well as by superior absorption energy from projectile penetration, the GO may contribute to the composite effective ballistic performance.
Influence of Antimony Oxide on Epoxy Based Intumescent Flame Retardation Coating System
Authors: Riyazuddin Riyazuddin , Bano Samrin , Husain Fohad Mabood , Khan Rais Ahmad , Alsalme Ali , Siddique Jamal Akhter
Published: November 2020

Ethylenediamine modified Ammonium polyphosphate (EDA-MAPP), and Charring-Foaming Agents (CFA) was prepared via a simple chemical approach and further utilizes for the preparation of Epoxy resin based intumescent flame retardation coatings. The ratio belongs to MAPP and CFA was fixed at 2:1 ratio. Comparative thermo gravimetric analysis TGA study of Modified Ammonium polyphosphate (MAPP) and Ammonium polyphosphate (APP) investigated. Sb2O3 was introduced into flame retardation coating formulation at various amounts to evaluate the synergistic action of Sb2O3 along with flame retardant coating system. The synergistic action of Sb2O3 on flame retardation coating formulation was studied by vertical burning test (UL-94V), thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA), Limited Oxygen Index (LOI), and Fourier Transform Infra-Red spectroscopy (FTIR). The UL-94V results indicated that adding Sb2O3 effectively increased flame retardancy and meets V-0 ratings at each concentration. The TGA results revealed that the amalgamation of Sb2O3 at each concentration effectively increased the thermal stability of the flame retardant coating system. Cone-calorimeter study results that Sb2O3 successfully minimized the combustion parameters like, Peak Heat Release Rate (PHRR), and Total Heat Release (THR). The FTIR result shows that Sb2O3 can react with MAPP and generates the dense-charred layer which prevents the transfer of heat and oxygen.
Efficient and Low Cytotoxicity Gene Carriers Based on Amine-Functionalized Polyvinylpyrrolidone
Authors: Del Prado Anselmo , Civantos Ana , Martínez-Campos Enrique , Levkin Pavel A. , Reinecke Helmut , Gallardo Alberto , Elvira Carlos
Published: November 2020

Non-viral vectors are a safety tool for gene therapy to deliver therapeutic genes. Among the different non-viral vectors, polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), a well-known hydrosoluble, neutral, and non-toxic polymer, satisfies the requirements and becomes a suitable candidate for gene delivery. In this study, we describe the preparation of polyvinylpyrrolidones decorated with pyrrolidine, piperidine, and piperazine groups, and evaluate them in vitro as non-viral gene carriers. The properties of these new systems are compared with those of hyperbranched polyethyleneimine (PEI) used as a positive control. Their ability to complex DNA at different N/P molar ratios, from 1:1 up to 10:1, was studied through agarose gel electrophoresis and dynamic light scattering. The resulting complexes (polyplexes) were characterized and evaluated in vitro with murine fibroblast (Swiss 3T3) as non-viral gene carriers, using luciferase as the reporter gene and a calcein cytocompatibility assay. All the copolymers condensed DNA to a particle average size between 100–400 nm when used at N/P ratios of 4:1 or higher. The copolymers with piperidine groups showed higher transfection efficiency than the pyrrolidine and piperazine modified copolymers, and even higher than the positive control of PEI at N/P ratios of 4:1 or higher. All the synthesized polyplexes from an aminated PVP displayed a general tendency of high cytocompatibility (75–95%) in comparison with the positive control PEI (55%).
Design and Synthesis of Bio-Inspired Polyurethane Films with High Performance
Authors: Briz-López Eva Marina , Navarro Rodrigo , Martínez-Hernández Héctor , Téllez-Jurado Lucía , Marcos-Fernández Ángel
Published: November 2020

In the present work, the synthesis of segmented polyurethanes functionalized with catechol moieties within the hard or the soft segment is presented. For this purpose, a synthetic route of a new catechol diol was designed. The direct insertion of this catechol-free derivative into the rigid phase led to segmented polyurethanes with low performance (σmax ≈ 4.5 MPa). Nevertheless, when the derivative was formally located within the soft segment, the mechanical properties of the corresponding functionalized polyurethane improved considerably (σmax ≈ 16.3 MPa), owing to a significant increase in the degree of polymerization. It is proposed that this difference in reactivity could probably be attributed to a hampering effect of this catecholic ring during the polyaddition reaction. To corroborate this hypothesis, a protection of the aromatic ring was carried out, blocking the hampering effect and avoiding secondary reactions. The polyurethane bearing the protected catechol showed the highest molecular weight and the highest stress at break described to date (σmax ≈ 66.1 MPa) for these kind of catechol-functionalized polyurethanes. Therefore, this new approach allows for the obtention of high-performance polyurethane films and can be applied in different sectors, benefiting from the molecular adhesion introduced by the catechol ring.
Cellulosic Ethanol: Improving Cost Efficiency by Coupling Semi-Continuous Fermentation and Simultaneous Saccharification Strategies
Authors: Portero Barahona Patricia , Bastidas Mayorga Bernardo , Martín-Gil Jesús , Martín-Ramos Pablo , Carvajal Barriga Enrique Javier
Published: November 2020

A novel approach to improve ethanol production from sugarcane bagasse is proposed. Biomass was pretreated with sodium hydroxide, sulfuric, oxalic, and maleic acids (1% w/v) at different temperatures (130–170 °C) and times (10–30 min). The pretreatment with NaOH at 160 °C for 20 min was found to be the most efficient for further enzymatic saccharification. A semi-continuous fermentation system coupled with a simultaneous saccharification and fermentation strategy was used, attaining fermented liquor every 24 h. The amount of enzymes needed for saccharification was optimized, as well as the production time and ethanol concentration. The process occurred with near to complete depletion of glucose, obtaining ethanol concentrations ranging from 8.36 to 10.79% (v/v). The whole system, at bench scale, showed stability over 30 days, and ease of management and control. This strategy may improve cost efficiency in the production of cellulosic ethanol at industrial scale.
A Methodology to Estimate the Sorption Parameters from Batch and Column Tests: The Case Study of Methylene Blue Sorption onto Banana Peels
Authors: Stavrinou Anastasia , Aggelopoulos Christos A. , Tsakiroglou Christos D.
Published: November 2020

In the present work, a methodology is presented where batch and fixed-bed column tests of dye sorption onto granular biosorbents are analyzed with properly selected models to estimate the parameters required for the rational design of pilot-scale units. The sorption of methylene blue (MB) onto banana peels (BP) was investigated as a case study. To identify the mechanisms of MB sorption onto BP, the pore structure and surface of BP were characterized with mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Batch tests were performed over the temperature range of 15–45 °C, and three models (Langmuir, Freundlich, Langmuir–Freundlich) were fitted to equilibrium and kinetic data for (i) estimating thermodynamic/kinetic parameters and (ii) choosing the model with the best goodness-of-fit. Sorption tests on fixed-bed columns were combined with a one-dimensional macroscopic convection/dispersion/sorption model to estimate the sorption parameters of BP beds. MB sorption onto BP was a purely exothermic (ΔH0~−20 kJ/mol), reversible, and monolayer chemisorption with high activation energy for the desorption step (Ed~29 kJ/mol) and low activation energy for the adsorption step (Ea~9 kJ/mol). The Langmuir isotherm (KL = 141.9 m3/kg, T = 25 °C) and Langmuir kinetic model (kd = 1.05 × 10−5 s−1) provided the best fitting to equilibrium and transient data of batch tests. The sorption capacity ~0.15–0.22 kg/kg and kinetic constant 0.3 × 10−5 s−1–4.0 × 10−5 s−1 estimated from tests on BP beds were comparable to those obtained from batch tests.
In Vitro Molecular Biology Studies of Spirooxindole Heterocyclic Hybrids
Authors: M. Al-thamili Dhaifallah , Almansour Abdulrahman I. , Arumugam Natarajan , Mohammad Faruq , Suresh Kumar Raju
Published: November 2020

In the present report, we provide the results of the molecular biology studies of spiroheterocyclic hybrids, where the derivatives are found to possess potential anticancer activity towards cancer cells. A series of spiroxindole–pyrrolidine heterocyclic hybrids were evaluated for cell viability and proliferation against HepG2 cancer cells at concentrations in the range of 12.5–200 µg/mL over two different time periods of 24 and 48 h. In addition, the highly active compounds were also verified for their behavior towards noncancer cells (L929 cells), and it was found that the tested derivatives were not aggressive due to the observation of only limited cell loss, as compared to the cancer cells. Further analysis of the observed toxicity mechanism showed the apoptotic pathway was mediated by oxidative stress, with the involvement of caspases.
Quantitative Methods to Support Data Acquisition Modernization within Copper Smelters
Authors: Navarra Alessandro , Wilson Ryan , Parra Roberto , Toro Norman , Ross Andrés , Nave Jean-Christophe , Mackey Phillip J.
Published: November 2020

Sensors and process control systems are essential for process automation and optimization. Many sectors have adapted to the Industry 4.0 paradigm, but copper smelters remain hesitant to implement these technologies without appropriate justification, as many critical functions remain subject to ground operator experience. Recent experiments and industrial trials using radiometric optoelectronic data acquisition, coupled with advanced quantitative methods and expert systems, have successfully distinguished between mineral species in reactive vessels with high classification rates. These experiments demonstrate the increasing potential for the online monitoring of the state of a charge in pyrometallurgical furnaces, allowing data-driven adjustments to critical operational parameters. However, the justification to implement an innovative control system requires a quantitative framework that is conducive to multiphase engineering projects. This paper presents a unified quantitative framework for copper and nickel-copper smelters, which integrates thermochemical modeling into discrete event simulation and is, indeed, able to simulate smelters, with and without a proposed set of sensors, thus quantifying the benefit of these sensors. Sample computations are presented, which are based on the authors’ experiences in smelter reengineering projects.
Irradiation Effects of Swift Heavy Ions Detected by Refractive Index Depth Profiling
Authors: Amekura Hiroshi , Li Rang , Okubo Nariaki , Ishikawa Norito , Chen Feng
Published: November 2020

Evolution of depth profiles of the refractive index in Y3Al5O12 (YAG) crystals were studied under 200 MeV 136Xe14+ ion irradiation, since the index can be related with the stress change and/or the defect formation by the irradiation. Using the prism-coupling and the end-surface coupling methods, various waveguide (WG) modes were detected. Then, the index depth profiles were determined by reproducing the observed WG modes. The index changes were observed at three different depth regions; (i) a sharp dip at 13 μm in depth, which is attributed to the nuclear stopping Sn peak, (ii) a plateau near the surface between 0 and 3 μm in depth, which can be ascribed to the electronic stopping Se, since Se has a very broad peak at the surface, and (iii) a broad peak at 6 μm in depth. Since the last peak is ascribed to neither of Se nor Sn peak, it could be attributed to the synergy effect of Se and Sn.
Pricing, Risk and Volatility in Subordinated Market Models
Authors: Aguilar Jean-Philippe , Kirkby Justin Lars , Korbel Jan
Published: November 2020

We consider several market models, where time is subordinated to a stochastic process. These models are based on various time changes in the Lévy processes driving asset returns, or on fractional extensions of the diffusion equation; they were introduced to capture complex phenomena such as volatility clustering or long memory. After recalling recent results on option pricing in subordinated market models, we establish several analytical formulas for market sensitivities and portfolio performance in this class of models, and discuss some useful approximations when options are not far from the money. We also provide some tools for volatility modelling and delta hedging, as well as comparisons with numerical Fourier techniques.