bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Precise Urban Component Management Method Based on the GeoSOT Grid Code and BIM
Authors: Zhang Huangchuang , Cheng Chengqi , Miao Shuangxi
Published: March 2019

Currently, the rapid development of cities and the rapid increase in urban populations have led to a sharp increase in urban components, making precise urban component management, query efficiency, and operational visualization urgent problems to be solved. In this paper, an in-depth study is carried out, pointing out that the current two-dimensional map or component management method based on a real-life three-dimensional city has defects, including query difficulty, fuzzy management, and inefficiency, and it is impossible to accurately and efficiently manage urban components. Then, this paper uses a combination of GIS technology and BIM technology as the starting point. On one hand, this combined technology is based on the high efficiency of the underlying data organization of the GeoSOT grid code and the accuracy of real geographic location expression; on the other hand, based on the integrity of the building information representation and the accuracy of the relative position of internal components of BIM, a precise urban component management method based on GeoSOT grid code and BIM is proposed. Finally, based on this method, a real-time 3D Earth visualization platform is established by using the Cesium platform. Taking the fire hydrant component management of the commercial Guanlan Street in Baiyin City, Gansu Province, China as an example, the precise management of the components in this area is realized, which proves that the method can achieve precise urban component management.
Role of SIRT-3, p-mTOR and HIF-1α in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients Affected by Metabolic Dysfunctions and in Chronic Treatment with Metformin
Authors: De Matteis Serena , Scarpi Emanuela , Granato Anna Maria , Vespasiani-Gentilucci Umberto , La Barba Giuliano , Foschi Francesco Giuseppe , Bandini Erika , Ghetti Martina , Marisi Giorgia , Cravero Paola , Gramantieri Laura , Cucchetti Alessandro , Ercolani Giorgio , Santini Daniele , Frassineti Giovanni Luca , Faloppi Luca , Scartozzi Mario , Cascinu Stefano , Casadei-Gardini Andrea
Published: March 2019

The incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma deriving from metabolic dysfunctions has increased in the last years. Sirtuin- (SIRT-3), phospho-mammalian target of rapamycin (p-mTOR) and hypoxia-inducible factor- (HIF-1α) are involved in metabolism and cancer. However, their role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) metabolism, drug resistance and progression remains unclear. This study aimed to better clarify the biological and clinical function of these markers in HCC patients, in relation to the presence of metabolic alterations, metformin therapy and clinical outcome. A total of 70 HCC patients were enrolled: 48 and 22 of whom were in early stage and advanced stage, respectively. The expression levels of the three markers were assessed by immunohistochemistry and summarized using descriptive statistics. SIRT-3 expression was higher in diabetic than non-diabetic patients, and in metformin-treated than insulin-treated patients. Interestingly, p-mTOR was higher in patients with metabolic syndrome than those with different etiology, and, similar to SIRT-3, in metformin-treated than insulin-treated patients. Moreover, our results describe a slight, albeit not significant, benefit of high SIRT-3 and a significant benefit of high nuclear HIF-1α expression in early-stage patients, whereas high levels of p-mTOR correlated with worse prognosis in advanced-stage patients. Our study highlighted the involvement of SIRT-3 and p-mTOR in metabolic dysfunctions that occur in HCC patients, and suggested SIRT-3 and HIF-1α as predictors of prognosis in early-stage HCC patients, and p-mTOR as target for the treatment of advanced-stage HCC.
Unique Regulation of Enterocyte Brush Border Membrane Na-Glutamine and Na-Alanine Co-Transport by Peroxynitrite during Chronic Intestinal Inflammation
Authors: Arthur Subha , Manoharan Palanikumar , Sundaram Shanmuga , Rahman M Motiur , Palaniappan Balasubramanian , Sundaram Uma
Published: March 2019

Na-amino acid co-transporters (NaAAcT) are uniquely affected in rabbit intestinal villus cell brush border membrane (BBM) during chronic intestinal inflammation. Specifically, Na-alanine co-transport (ASCT1) is inhibited secondary to a reduction in the affinity of the co-transporter for alanine, whereas Na-glutamine co-transport (B0AT1) is inhibited secondary to a reduction in BBM co-transporter numbers. During chronic intestinal inflammation, there is abundant production of the potent oxidant peroxynitrite (OONO). However, whether OONO mediates the unique alteration in NaAAcT in intestinal epithelial cells during chronic intestinal inflammation is unknown. In this study, ASCT1 and B0AT1 were inhibited by OONO in vitro. The mechanism of inhibition of ASCT1 by OONO was secondary to a reduction in the affinity of the co-transporter for alanine, and secondary to a reduction in the number of co-transporters for B0AT1, which were further confirmed by Western blot analyses. In conclusion, peroxynitrite inhibited both BBM ASCT1 and B0AT1 in intestinal epithelial cells but by different mechanisms. These alterations in the villus cells are similar to those seen in the rabbit model of chronic enteritis. Therefore, this study indicates that peroxynitrite may mediate the inhibition of ASCT1 and B0AT1 during inflammation, when OONO levels are known to be elevated in the mucosa.
Cell Signaling Pathways in Mammary Carcinoma Induced in Rats with Low versus High Inherent Aerobic Capacity
Authors: Lutsiv Tymofiy , McGinley John N. , Neil Elizabeth S. , Thompson Henry J.
Published: March 2019

An inverse association exists between physical activity and breast cancer incidence and outcomes. An objective indicator of an individual’s recent physical activity exposure is aerobic capacity. We took advantage of the fact that there is an inherited as well as inducible component of aerobic capacity to show that experimentally induced mammary cancer is inversely related to inherent aerobic capacity (IAC). The objective of this study was to determine whether cell signaling pathways involved in the development of mammary cancer differed in rats with low inherent aerobic capacity (LIAC, n = 55) versus high inherent aerobic capacity (HIAC, n = 57). Cancer burden was 0.21 ± 0.16 g/rat in HIAC versus 1.14 ± 0.45 in LIAC, p < 0.001. Based on protein expression, cancer in LIAC animals was associated with upregulated glucose utilization, and protein and fatty acid synthesis. Signaling in cancers from HIAC rats was associated with energy sensing, fatty acid oxidation and cell cycle arrest. These findings support the thesis that pro-glycolytic, metabolic inflexibility in LIAC favors not only insulin resistance and obesity but also tumor development and growth. This provides an unappreciated framework for understanding how obesity and low aerobic fitness, hallmarks of physical inactivity, are associated with higher cancer risk and poorer prognosis.
X-linked Retinitis Pigmentosa in Japan: Clinical and Genetic Findings in Male Patients and Female Carriers
Authors: Kurata Kentaro , Hosono Katsuhiro , Hayashi Takaaki , Mizobuchi Kei , Katagiri Satoshi , Miyamichi Daisuke , Nishina Sachiko , Sato Miho , Azuma Noriyuki , Nakano Tadashi , Hotta Yoshihiro
Published: March 2019

X-linked retinitis pigmentosa (XLRP) is a type of severe retinal dystrophy, and female carriers of XLRP demonstrate markedly variable clinical severity. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the clinical findings of male patients with and female carriers of XLRP in a Japanese cohort and demonstrate the genetic contribution. Twelve unrelated families (13 male patients, 15 female carriers) harboring pathogenic mutations in RPGR or RP2 were included, and comprehensive ophthalmic examinations were performed. To identify potential pathogenic mutations, targeted next-generation sequencing was employed. Consequently, we identified 11 pathogenic mutations, of which five were novel. Six and five mutations were detected in RPGR and RP2, respectively. Only one mutation was detected in ORF15. Affected male patients with RP2 mutations tended to have lower visual function than those with RPGR mutations. Female carriers demonstrated varying visual acuities and visual fields. Among the female carriers, 92% had electroretinographical abnormalities and 63% had a radial autofluorescent pattern, and the carriers who had higher myopia showed worse visual acuity and more severe retinal degeneration. Our results expand the knowledge of the clinical phenotypes of male patients with and female carriers of XLRP and suggest the possibility that RP2 mutations are relatively highly prevalent in Japan.
Multifactorial Contribution of Notch Signaling in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Porcheri Cristina , Meisel Christian Thomas , Mitsiadis Thimios
Published: March 2019

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) defines a group of solid tumors originating from the mucosa of the upper aerodigestive tract, pharynx, larynx, mouth, and nasal cavity. It has a metastatic evolution and poor prognosis and is the sixth most common cancer in the world, with 600,000 new cases reported every year. HNSCC heterogeneity and complexity is reflected in a multistep progression, involving crosstalk between several molecular pathways. The Notch pathway is associated with major events supporting cancerogenic evolution: cell proliferation, self-renewal, angiogenesis, and preservation of a pro-oncogenic microenvironment. Additionally, Notch is pivotal in tumor development and plays a dual role acting as both oncogene and tumor suppressor. In this review, we summarize the role of the Notch pathway in HNSCC, with a special focus on its compelling role in major events of tumor initiation and growth.
Assessing the Pathogenicity of Two Bacteria Isolated from the Entomopathogenic Nematode Heterorhabditis indica against Galleria mellonella and Some Pest Insects
Authors: Salgado-Morales Rosalba , Martínez-Ocampo Fernando , Obregón-Barboza Verónica , Vilchis-Martínez Kathia , Jiménez-Pérez Alfredo , Dantán-González Edgar
Published: March 2019

The entomopathogenic nematodes Heterorhabditis are parasites of insects and are associated with mutualist symbiosis enterobacteria of the genus Photorhabdus; these bacteria are lethal to their host insects. Heterorhabditis indica MOR03 was isolated from sugarcane soil in Morelos state, Mexico. The molecular identification of the nematode was confirmed using sequences of the ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 region and the D2/D3 expansion segment of the 28S rRNA gene. In addition, two bacteria HIM3 and NA04 strains were isolated from the entomopathogenic nematode. The genomes of both bacteria were sequenced and assembled de novo. Phylogenetic analysis was confirmed by concatenated gene sequence datasets as Photorhabdus luminescens HIM3 (16S rRNA, 23S rRNA, dnaN, gyrA, and gyrB genes) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa NA04 (16S rRNA, 23S rRNA and gyrB genes). H. indica MOR03 infects Galleria mellonella, Tenebrio molitor, Heliothis subflexa, and Diatraea magnifactella larvae with LC50 values of 1.4, 23.5, 13.7, and 21.7 IJs/cm2, respectively, at 48 h. These bacteria are pathogenic to various insects and have high injectable insecticide activity at 24 h.
Internet of Things in Smart Grid: Architecture, Applications, Services, Key Technologies, and Challenges
Authors: Ghasempour Alireza
Published: March 2019

Internet of Things (IoT) is a connection of people and things at any time, in any place, with anyone and anything, using any network and any service. Thus, IoT is a huge dynamic global network infrastructure of Internet-enabled entities with web services. One of the most important applications of IoT is the Smart Grid (SG). SG is a data communications network which is integrated with the power grid to collect and analyze data that are acquired from transmission lines, distribution substations, and consumers. In this paper, we talk about IoT and SG and their relationship. Some IoT architectures in SG, requirements for using IoT in SG, IoT applications and services in SG, and challenges and future work are discussed.
Re-Evaluating the Protective Effect of Hemodialysis Catheter Locking Solutions in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Chen Chang-Hua , Chen Yu-Min , Yang Yu , Chang Yu-Jun , Lin Li-Jhen , Yen Hua-Cheng
Published: March 2019

Catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs) and exit-site infections (ESIs) are common complications associated with the use of central venous catheters for hemodialysis. The aim of this study was to analyze the impact of routine locking solutions on the incidence of CRBSI and ESI, in preserving catheter function, and on the rate of all-cause mortality in patients undergoing hemodialysis. We selected publications (from inception until July 2018) with studies comparing locking solutions for hemodialysis catheters used in patients undergoing hemodialysis. A total of 21 eligible studies were included, with a total of 4832 patients and 318,769 days of catheter use. The incidence of CRBSI and ESI was significantly lower in the treated group (citrate-based regimen) than in the controls (heparin-based regimen). No significant difference in preserving catheter function and all-cause mortality was found between the two groups. Our findings demonstrated that routine locking solutions for hemodialysis catheters effectively reduce the incidence of CRBSIs and ESIs, but our findings failed to show a benefit for preserving catheter function and mortality rates. Therefore, further studies are urgently needed to conclusively evaluate the impact of routine locking solutions on preserving catheter function and improving the rates of all-cause mortality.
A Culture-Independent Analysis of the Microbiota of Female Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome Participants in the MAPP Research Network
Authors: Nickel J. , Stephens-Shields Alisa , Landis J. , Mullins Chris , van Bokhoven Adrie , Lucia M. , Henderson Jeffrey , Sen Bhaswati , Krol Jaroslaw , Ehrlich Garth ,   The MAPP Research Network
Published: March 2019

We surveyed urine microbiota of females diagnosed with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) and matched control participants enrolled in the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Multidisciplinary Approach to the Study of Chronic Pelvic Pain (MAPP) Research Network using the culture-independent methodology. Midstream urine specimens were analyzed with the Plex-ID molecular diagnostic platform that utilizes polymerase chain reaction–electrospray ionization–time-of-flight–mass spectrometry (PCR-ESI-TOF MS) to provide a comprehensive identification of bacterial and select fungal species. IC/BPS and control participants were evaluated for differences (presence, diversity, and abundance) in species and genus. Urine specimens obtained from 181 female IC/BPS and 182 female control participants detected a total of 92 species (41 genera). Mean (SD) species count was 2.49 (1.48) and 2.30 (1.28) among IC/BPS and control participants, respectively. Overall species composition did not significantly differ between IC/BPS and control participants at any level (p = 0.726 species level, p = 0.222 genus level). IC/BPS participants urine trended to an overabundance of Lactobacillus gasseri (p = 0.09) detected but had a lower prevalence of Corynebacterium compared with control participants (p = 0.002). The relative abundance data analysis mirrored the prevalence data differences with no significant differences in most species or genus abundance other than Lactobacillus gasseri and Corynebacterium (p = 0.08 and p = 0.001, respectively). No cause and/or effect conclusion can be drawn from this observation, but it suggests that a more comprehensive evaluation (vaginal, bowel, catheterized bladder and/or tissue-based specimens) of the lower urinary tract microbiota in IC/BPS patients is warranted.
Robust Capon Beamforming against Steering Vector Error Dominated by Large Direction-of-Arrival Mismatch for Passive Sonar
Authors: Hao Yu , Zou Nan , Liang Guolong
Published: March 2019

Capon beamforming is often applied in passive sonar to improve the detectability of weak underwater targets. However, we often have no accurate prior information of the direction-of-arrival (DOA) of the target in the practical applications of passive sonar. In this case, Capon beamformer will suffer from performance degradation due to the steering vector error dominated by large DOA mismatch. To solve this, a new robust Capon beamforming approach is proposed. The essence of the proposed method is to decompose the actual steering vector into two components by oblique projection onto a subspace and then estimate the actual steering vector in two steps. First, we estimate the oblique projection steering vector within the subspace by maximizing the output power while controlling the power from the sidelobe region. Subsequently, we search for the actual steering vector within the neighborhood of the estimated oblique projection steering vector by maximizing the output signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR). Semidefinite relaxation and Charnes-Cooper transformation are utilized to derive convex formulations of the estimation problems, and the optimal solutions are obtained by the rank-one decomposition theorem. Numerical simulations demonstrate that the proposed method can provide superior performance, as compared with several previously proposed robust Capon beamformers in the presence of large DOA mismatch and other array imperfections.
Laser Polishing of Additive Manufactured 316L Stainless Steel Synthesized by Selective Laser Melting
Authors: Obeidi Muhannad A. , McCarthy Eanna , O’Connell Barry , Ul Ahad Inam , Brabazon Dermot
Published: March 2019

One of the established limitations of metal additive manufacturing (AM) methods, such as selective laser melting (SLM), is the resulting rough surface finish. Laser polishing is one method that can be used to achieve an improved surface finish on AM printed parts. This study is focused on the laser surface polishing of AM parts using CO2 laser beam irradiation. Despite the fact that several researchers have investigated the traditional abrasive polishing method, there is still a lack of information reporting on the laser surface polishing of metal parts. In this study, AM 316L stainless steel cylindrical samples were polished using CO2 laser beam irradiation in continuous wave (CW) working mode. Two design of experiment models were developed for the optimization of the input processing parameters by statistical analysis of their effect on the resulting roughness. The processing parameters investigated were the laser beam power, the rotational speed of the sample, the number of laser scan passes, the laser beam focal position, and the percentage overlap of the laser tracks between consecutive passes. The characterization of the measured roughness and the modified layer microstructure was carried out using 3D optical and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). A maximum reduction of the roughness from 10.4 to 2.7 µm was achieved and no significant change in the microstructure phase type and micro-hardness was observed.
Modelling of Temperature Field and Stress–Strain State of the Workpiece with Plasma Coatings during Surface Grinding
Authors: Usov Anatoly V. , Tonkonogyi Vladimir M. , Dašić Predrag V. , Rybak Olga V.
Published: March 2019

Plasma coatings play a key role in surface tailoring through providing important advantages for tools during their further application. However, grinding these coatings may cause different defects such as grinding burns and cracks, structural changes to the coating material, and the destruction of adhesive contacts between the coating layer and the substrate. The reason for that is the high heat flux generated in the process of abrasive material removal due to the high friction and stresses. In order to define the optimal conditions for grinding plasma coatings, the mathematical model of the temperature thermal field and the stress–strain state during the grinding process is developed. Based on the temperature, strength, and fracture criteria, this mathematical model makes it possible to define the functional relationship between the technological characteristics of the grinding process and the conditions that provide the required quality of surface processing. The role of the structural defects that are generated while coatings are being sprayed, as well as during coating adhesion, is also considered. An algorithm developed to present the results of the modelling process enables checking if the input parameters meet the condition of zero-defect grinding of a workpiece, and determining an expected surface roughness. Input parameters include the grinding wheel geometry, its abrasive properties, the wheel speed, longitudinal and transverse motion, grinding depth, and the use of the cutting fluid. Experimental testing of this study shows the way in which the regime of the grinding process and different grinding wheel parameters influence the physical and mechanical properties of the surface layer.
Some Results on the Cohomology of Line Bundles on the Three Dimensional Flag Variety
Authors: Anwar Muhammad Fazeel
Published: March 2019

Let k be an algebraically closed field of prime characteristic and let G be a semisimple, simply connected, linear algebraic group. It is an open problem to find the cohomology of line bundles on the flag variety G / B , where B is a Borel subgroup of G. In this paper we consider this problem in the case of G = S L 3 ( k ) and compute the cohomology for the case when ⟨ λ , α ∨ ⟩ = − p n a − 1 , ( 1 ≤ a ≤ p , n > 0 ) or ⟨ λ , α ∨ ⟩ = − p n − r , ( r ≥ 2 , n ≥ 0 ) . We also give the corresponding results for the two dimensional modules N α ( λ ) . These results will help us understand the representations of S L 3 ( k ) in the given cases.
A Reputation-Enhanced Hybrid Approach for Supplier Selection with Intuitionistic Fuzzy Evaluation Information
Authors: Yan Zhijia , Yang Wenting , Huang Xiaoling , Shi Xiangrong , Zhang Wenyu , Zhang Shuai
Published: March 2019

Selecting optimal suppliers in fuzzy environments has become a major challenge for enterprises. Reputation plays an important role in the process of supplier selection because of its fuzziness, dynamicity, and transitivity. In this study, we first present a novel intuitionistic fuzzy sets (IFS)-hyperlink-induced topic search (HITS) method that combines the intuitionistic fuzzy set with the hyperlink-induced topic search (HITS) algorithm to extend the ability of processing fuzzy information in order to obtain post-propagated reputation values of suppliers. Then, we employ the dynamic intuitionistic fuzzy weighted average operator to gain dynamic reputation values and other evaluation attribute values. After that, intuitionistic fuzzy entropy weight method is adopted to acquire more accurate weights for each evaluation attribute. Finally, we employ the Vlsekriterijumska Optimizacija I Kompromisno Resenje method to acquire comprehensive evaluation values of candidate supplier to select optimal suppliers. Two groups of experiments for supplier selection are given to explain feasibility and practicality of the proposed method.
Rat Glioma Cell-Based Functional Characterization of Anti-Stress and Protein Deaggregation Activities in the Marine Carotenoids, Astaxanthin and Fucoxanthin
Authors: Afzal Sajal , Garg Sukant , Ishida Yoshiyuki , Terao Keiji , Kaul Sunil C. , Wadhwa Renu
Published: March 2019

Stress, protein aggregation, and loss of functional properties of cells have been shown to contribute to several deleterious pathologies including cancer and neurodegeneration. The incidence of these pathologies has also been shown to increase with age and are often presented as evidence to the cumulative effect of stress and protein aggregation. Prevention or delay of onset of these diseases may prove to be unprecedentedly beneficial. In this study, we explored the anti-stress and differentiation-inducing potential of two marine bioactive carotenoids (astaxanthin and fucoxanthin) using rat glioma cells as a model. We found that the low (nontoxic) doses of both protected cells against UV-induced DNA damage, heavy metal, and heat-induced protein misfolding and aggregation of proteins. Their long-term treatment in glioma cells caused the induction of physiological differentiation into astrocytes. These phenotypes were supported by upregulation of proteins that regulate cell proliferation, DNA damage repair mechanism, and glial differentiation, suggesting their potential for prevention and treatment of stress, protein aggregation, and age-related pathologies.
High-Throughput Identification and Analysis of Novel Conotoxins from Three Vermivorous Cone Snails by Transcriptome Sequencing
Authors: Yao Ge , Peng Chao , Zhu Yabing , Fan Chongxu , Jiang Hui , Chen Jisheng , Cao Ying , Shi Qiong
Published: March 2019

The venom of each Conus species consists of a diverse array of neurophysiologically active peptides, which are mostly unique to the examined species. In this study, we performed high-throughput transcriptome sequencing to extract and analyze putative conotoxin transcripts from the venom ducts of 3 vermivorous cone snails (C. caracteristicus, C. generalis, and C. quercinus), which are resident in offshore waters of the South China Sea. In total, 118, 61, and 48 putative conotoxins (across 22 superfamilies) were identified from the 3 Conus species, respectively; most of them are novel, and some possess new cysteine patterns. Interestingly, a series of 45 unassigned conotoxins presented with a new framework of C-C-C-C-C-C, and their mature regions were sufficiently distinct from any other known conotoxins, most likely representing a new superfamily. O- and M-superfamily conotoxins were the most abundant in transcript number and transcription level, suggesting their critical roles in the venom functions of these vermivorous cone snails. In addition, we identified numerous functional proteins with potential involvement in the biosynthesis, modification, and delivery process of conotoxins, which may shed light on the fundamental mechanisms for the generation of these important conotoxins within the venom duct of cone snails.
Effect of Grain Size Distribution on Recrystallisation Kinetics in an Fe-30Ni Model Alloy
Authors: Ji Mo , Davis Claire , Strangwood Martin
Published: March 2019

This paper discusses the role of grain size distribution on the recrystallisation rates and Avrami values for a Fe-30 wt. % Ni steel, which was used as a model alloy retaining an austenitic structure to room temperature. Cold deformation was used to provide uniform macroscopic strain distributions (strains of 0.2 and 0.3), followed by recrystallisation during annealing at 850–950 °C. It was shown that the Avrami parameter was directly related to the grain size distribution, with a lower Avrami exponent being seen for a larger average and wider grain size distribution. A method to predict the Avrami exponent from the grain size distribution was proposed. In situ heating in an SEM with EBSD showed the recrystallisation kinetics to be affected by differences in stored energy and nucleation in the different grain sizes supporting the proposed relationship.
The Influence of Mg-Based Inclusions on the Grain Boundary Mobility of Austenite in SS400 Steel
Authors: Lai Chih-Ting , Lai Hsuan-Hao , Su Yen-Hao Frank , Huang Fei-Ya , Lin Chi-Kang , Kuo Jui-Chao , Lee Hwa-Teng
Published: March 2019

In this study, the effects of the addition of Mg to the grain growth of austenite and the magnesium-based inclusions to mobility were investigated in SS400 steel at high temperatures. A high-temperature confocal scanning laser microscope (HT-CSLM) was employed to directly observe, in situ, the grain structure of austenite under 25 torr Ar at high temperatures. The grain size distribution of austenite showed the log-normal distribution. The results of the grain growth curves using 3D surface fitting showed that the n and Q values of the growth equation parameters ranged from 0.2 to 0.26 and from 405 kJ/mole to 752 kJ/mole, respectively, when adding 5.6–22 ppm of Mg. Increasing the temperature from 1150 to 1250 °C for 20 min and increasing the addition of Mg by 5.6, 11, and 22 ppm resulted in increases in the grain boundary velocity. The effects of solute drag and Zener pinning on grain boundary mobility were also calculated in this study.
Quenching and Partitioning of Multiphase Aluminum-Added Steels
Authors: Nyyssönen Tuomo , Oja Olli , Jussila Petri , Saastamoinen Ari , Somani Mahesh , Peura Pasi
Published: March 2019

The quenching and partitioning response following intercritical annealing was investigated for three lean TRIP-type high-Al steel compositions. Depending on the intercritical austenite fraction following annealing, the steels assumed either a ferrite/martensite/retained austenite microstructure or a multiphase structure with ferritic, bainitic and martensitic constituents along with retained austenite. The amount of retained austenite was found to correlate with the initial quench temperature and, depending on the intercritical annealing condition prior to initial quenching, with the uniform and ultimate elongations measured in tensile testing.
Preparation Method of Spherical and Monocrystalline Aluminum Powder
Authors: Skalon Mateusz , Hebda Marek , Buzolin Ricardo , Pottlacher Gernot , Mitsche Stefan , Sommitsch Christof
Published: March 2019

This paper presents a new production method for a spherical and monocrystalline aluminum powder. Aluminum powder of irregular particle shapes was mixed with silica nanoparticles and heated to a temperature above the melting point of aluminum. Due to its molten state, high surface tension, and poor wettability, the aluminum particles were transformed into liquid and spherical droplets separated by silica nanoparticles. The spherical shape was then retained when the aluminum particles solidified. The influence of the processing temperature on the particle shape, phase composition, and microstructure was investigated. Moreover, calorimetric, X-ray diffraction, grain size, and scanning electron microscopy with electron backscatter diffraction (SEM-EBSD) measurements of the particles’ microstructure are presented. It is proven that, by this means, a spherical and monocrystalline aluminum powder can be efficiently created directly from an air-atomized irregular powder. The observed phenomenon of particles becoming round is of great importance, especially when considering powder preparation for powder-based additive manufacturing processes.
Effect of Graphene and Carbon Nanotubes on the Thermal Conductivity of WC–Co Cemented Carbide
Authors: Chen Kui , Xiao Wenkai , Li Zhengwu , Wu Jiasheng , Hong Kairong , Ruan Xuefeng
Published: March 2019

In recent years, it has been found that the service life of cemented carbide shield machine tools used in uneven soft and hard strata is substantially reduced in engineering practice. The study found that thermal stress is the main reason for the failure of cemented carbide shield tunneling tools when shield tunneling is carried out in uneven soft and hard soil. To maintain the hardness of cemented carbide, improving the thermal conductivity of the shield machine tool is of great importance for prolonging its service life and reducing engineering costs. In this study, graphene and carbon nanotubes were mixed with WC–Co powder and sintered by spark plasma sintering (SPS). The morphology was observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The Rockwell hardness, bending strength, and thermal conductivity of the samples were tested. The results show that adding a small amount of graphene or carbon nanotubes could increase the bending strength of the cemented carbide by approximately 50%, while keeping the hardness of the cemented carbide constant. The thermal conductivity of the cemented carbide could be increased by 10% with the addition of 0.12 wt % graphene alone.
Effect of Laser Heat Treatment on the Microstructure and Properties of Alloy 800H
Authors: Zhang Wei , Jiang Tao , Li Jing , Liu Liqiang
Published: March 2019

The effects of laser heat treatment on the microstructure and properties of alloy 800H were investigated. The fracture morphology, elemental changes, and phase composition of the specimens were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and X-ray diffractometry (XRD). The results show that the long-lasting life of the specimen after laser heat treatment increased by 28.6%, and the elongation after fracture increased by 20.7%. The macroscopic morphology of the fracture specimen exhibited obvious ductile fracture morphology, and the changes in the elemental content and grain size significantly affected the ductility and toughness of the alloy. This study has certain guiding significance for the optimization of the heat treatment process of this type of alloy.
Research and Application of a Rolling Gap Prediction Model in Continuous Casting
Authors: Lei Zhufeng , Su Wenbin
Published: March 2019

Control of the roll gap of the caster segment is one of the key parameters for ensuring the quality of a slab in continuous casting. In order to improve the precision and timeliness of the roll gap value control, we proposed a rolling gap value prediction (RGVP) method based on the continuous casting process parameters. The process parameters collected from the continuous casting production site were first dimension-reduced using principal component analysis (PCA); 15 process parameters were chosen for reduction. Second, a support vector machine (SVM) model using particle swarm optimization (PSO) was proposed to optimize the parameters and perform roll gap prediction. The experimental results and practical application of the models has indicated that the method proposed in this paper provides a new approach for the prediction of roll gap value.
Compositional Design of Soft Magnetic High Entropy Alloys by Minimizing Magnetostriction Coefficient in (Fe0.3Co0.5Ni0.2)100−x(Al1/3Si2/3)x System
Authors: Zhang Yong , Zhang Min , Li Dongyue , Zuo Tingting , Zhou Kaixuan , Gao Michael C. , Sun Baoru , Shen Tongde
Published: March 2019

Developing cost-effective soft magnetic alloys with excellent mechanical properties is very important to energy-saving industries. This study investigated the magnetic and mechanical properties of a series of (Fe0.3Co0.5Ni0.2)100−x(Al1/3Si2/3)x high-entropy alloys (HEAs) (x = 0, 5, 10, 15, and 25) at room temperature. The Fe0.3Co0.5Ni0.2 base alloy composition was chosen since it has very the smallest saturation magnetostriction coefficient. It was found that the (Fe0.3Co0.5Ni0.2)95(Al1/3Si2/3)5 alloy maintains a simple face-centered cubic (FCC) solid solution structure in the states of as-cast, cold-rolled, and after annealing at 1000 °C. The alloy after annealing exhibits a tensile yield strength of 235 MPa, ultimate tensile strength of 572 MPa, an elongation of 38%, a saturation magnetization (Ms) of 1.49 T, and a coercivity of 96 A/m. The alloy not only demonstrates an optimal combination of soft magnetic and mechanical properties, it also shows advantages of easy fabrication and processing and high thermal stability over silicon steel and amorphous soft magnetic materials. Therefore, the alloy of (Fe0.3Co0.5Ni0.2)95(Al1/3Si2/3)5 holds good potential as next-generation soft magnets for wide-range industrial applications.
MetaboAnalystR 2.0: From Raw Spectra to Biological Insights
Authors: Chong Jasmine , Yamamoto Mai , Xia Jianguo
Published: March 2019

Global metabolomics based on high-resolution liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS) has been increasingly employed in recent large-scale multi-omics studies. Processing and interpretation of these complex metabolomics datasets have become a key challenge in current computational metabolomics. Here, we introduce MetaboAnalystR 2.0 for comprehensive LC-MS data processing, statistical analysis, and functional interpretation. Compared to the previous version, this new release seamlessly integrates XCMS and CAMERA to support raw spectral processing and peak annotation, and also features high-performance implementations of mummichog and GSEA approaches for predictions of pathway activities. The application and utility of the MetaboAnalystR 2.0 workflow were demonstrated using a synthetic benchmark dataset and a clinical dataset. In summary, MetaboAnalystR 2.0 offers a unified and flexible workflow that enables end-to-end analysis of LC-MS metabolomics data within the open-source R environment.
Non-Volatile Metabolites from Trichoderma spp.
Authors: Li Meng-Fei , Li Guo-Hong , Zhang Ke-Qin
Published: March 2019

The genus Trichoderma is comprised of many common fungi species that are distributed worldwide across many ecosystems. Trichoderma species are well-known producers of secondary metabolites with a variety of biological activities. Their potential use as biocontrol agents has been known for many years. Several reviews about metabolites from Trichoderma have been published. These reviews are based on their structural type, biological activity, or fungal origin. In this review, we summarize the secondary metabolites per Trichoderma species and elaborate on approximately 390 non-volatile compounds from 20 known species and various unidentified species.
Metabolic Analysis of Four Cultivars of Liriope platyphylla
Authors: Park Chang Ha , Morgan Abubaker Mohammed Awad , Park Byung Bae , Lee Sook Young , Lee Sanghyun , Kim Jae Kwang , Park Sang Un
Published: March 2019

Liriope platyphylla (Liliaceae), a medical plant distributed mainly in China, Taiwan, and Korea, has been used traditionally for the treatment of cough, sputum, asthma, and neurodegenerative diseases. The present study involved the metabolic profiling of this plant and reports spicatoside A accumulation in four different varieties of L. platyphylla (Cheongyangjaerae, Seongsoo, Cheongsim, and Liriope Tuber No. 1) using HPLC and gas chromatography time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC–TOFMS). A total of 47 metabolites were detected in the different cultivars using GC–TOFMS-based metabolic profiling. The resulting data were subjected to principal component analysis (PCA) for determining the whole experimental variation, and the different cultivars were separated by score plots. Furthermore, hierarchical clustering, Pearson’s correlation, and partial least-squares discriminant analyses (PLS-DA) were subsequently performed to determine significant differences in the various metabolites of the cultivars. The HPLC data revealed that the presence of spicatoside A was detected in all four cultivars, with the amount of spicatoside A varying among them. Among the cultivars, Liriope Tuber No. 1 contained the highest amount of spicatoside A (1.83 ± 0.13 mg/g dry weight), followed by Cheongyangjaerae (1.25 ± 0.01 mg/g dry weight), Cheongsim (1.09 ± 0.04 mg/g dry weight), and Seongsoo (1.01 ± 0.02 mg/g dry weight). The identification of spicatoside A was confirmed by comparing the retention time of the sample with the retention time of the standard. Moreover, the Cheongsim cultivar contained higher levels of phenolic compounds—including vanillic acid, quinic acid, gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, and benzoic acid—than those of the other two cultivars. On the other hand, the levels of amino acids were higher in the Seongsoo cultivar. Therefore, this study may help breeders produce new varieties with improved nutraceutical and nutritional qualities.
An Automated and Miniaturized Rotating-Disk Device for Rapid Nucleic Acid Extraction
Authors: Tong Rui , Zhang Lijuan , Hu Chuandeng , Chen Xuee , Song Qi , Lou Kai , Tang Xin , Chen Yongsheng , Gong Xiuqing , Gao Yibo , Wen Weijia
Published: March 2019

The result of molecular diagnostic and detection greatly dependent on the quality and integrity of the isolated nucleic acid. In this work, we developed an automated miniaturized nucleic acid extraction device based on magnetic beads method, consisting of four components including a sample processing disc and its associated rotary power output mechanism, a pipetting module, a magnet module and an external central controller to enable a customizable and automated robust nucleic acid sample preparation. The extracted nucleic acid using 293T cells were verified using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and the data implies a comparable efficiency to a manual process, with the advantages of performing a flexible, time-saving (~10 min), and simple nucleic acid sample preparation.
Editorial for Special Issue “Arctic Mineral Resources: Science and Technology”
Authors: Krivovichev Sergey V.
Published: March 2019

The Arctic zone of the Earth is a major source of mineral and other natural resources for the future development of science and technology [...]
Spiridonovite, (Cu1-xAgx)2Te (x ≈ 0.4), a New Telluride from the Good Hope Mine, Vulcan, Colorado (U.S.A.)
Authors: Morana Marta , Bindi Luca
Published: March 2019

Here we describe a new mineral in the Cu-Ag-Te system, spiridonovite. The specimen was discovered in a fragment from the cameronite [ideally, Cu5-x(Cu,Ag)3+xTe10] holotype material from the Good Hope mine, Vulcan, Colorado (U.S.A.). It occurs as black grains of subhedral to anhedral morphology, with a maximum size up to 65 μm, and shows black streaks. No cleavage is observed and the Vickers hardness (VHN100) is 158 kg·mm−2. Reflectance percentages in air for Rmin and Rmax are 38.1, 38.9 (471.1 nm), 36.5, 37.3 (548.3 nm), 35.8, 36.5 (586.6 nm), 34.7, 35.4 (652.3 nm). Spiridonovite has formula (Cu1.24Ag0.75)Σ1.99Te1.01, ideally (Cu1-xAgx)2Te (x ≈ 0.4). The mineral is trigonal and belongs to the space group P-3c1, with the following unit-cell parameters: a = 4.630(2) Å, c = 22.551(9) Å, V = 418.7(4) Å 3, and Z = 6. The crystal structure has been solved and refined to R1 = 0.0256. It can be described as a rhombohedrally-compressed antifluorite structure, with a rough ccp arrangement of Te atoms. It consists of two Te sites and three M (metal) sites, occupied by Cu and Ag, and is characterized by the presence of edge-sharing tetrahedra, where the four-fold coordinated M atoms lie. The mineral and its name have been approved by the Commission of New Minerals, Nomenclature and Classification of the International Mineralogical Association (No. 2018-136).
Transformation of Vanadium-Bearing Titanomagnetite Concentrate in Additive-Free Roasting and Alkaline-Pressure Leaching for Extracting Vanadium (V)
Authors: Zheng Haiyan , Zhang Weiling , Guo Yongchun , Gao Qiangjian , Shen Fengman
Published: March 2019

With a view to satisfying the requirements of environmental protest and efficient usage of resources, a novel process for efficiently extracting vanadium (V), titanium (Ti), and iron (Fe) from vanadium-bearing titanomagnetite concentrate was developed. In the new process, vanadium is pre-extracted by additive-free roasting under the air atmosphere and alkaline leaching technologies. In this paper, transformation of vanadium-bearing titanomagnetite concentrate in the roasting is investigated based on thermodynamic analyses and experimental discussion. Thermodynamic analyses show that oxidation of V(III) into V(V) would happen in the roasting experiment over the range of 327–1327 °C and vanadium-iron spinel phase (FeV2O4) can be oxidized more easily than magnetite (Fe3O4) when the temperature is higher than 861 °C. Experimental results show that some compounds (V2O5, Fe2Al4Si5O18, and Fe2SiO4) with low melting temperature were obtained by solid reactions at low temperature and melted as a binding phase at elevated temperature. Liquids were generated due to some chemical reactions or phase transformation reaction (Fe2V2O4(s) → Fe2O3(s) + liquid) at elevated temperature. Main phases of Fe2O3 and Fe2TiO5 are connected and sintered with the binding phases of the compounds with low melting temperature or the mixtures with low liquidus temperature. In addition, higher roasting temperature leads to higher vanadium leaching efficiency over the range of 800–1200 °C. However, over-burning would happen at 1250 °C, some of vanadium oxide was wrapped by silicate network, and the conversion of V(III) into V(V) was prevented from occurring. Therefore, the vanadium leaching efficiency decreased from 59.1% (Troa. = 1200 °C) to 57% (Troa. = 1250 °C).
Pore Connectivity Characterization of Lacustrine Shales in Changling Fault Depression, Songliao Basin, China: Insights into the Effects of Mineral Compositions on Connected Pores
Authors: Li Zhuo , Liang Zhikai , Jiang Zhenxue , Yu Hailong , Yang Youdong , Xiao Lei
Published: March 2019

Pore connectivity of lacustrine shales was inadequately documented in previous papers. In this work, lacustrine shales from the lower Cretaceous Shahezi Formation in the Changling Fault Depression (CFD) were investigated using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), mercury intrusion capillary pressure (MICP), low pressure gas (CO2 and N2) sorption (LPGA) and spontaneous fluid imbibition (SFI) experiments. The results show that pores observed from FE-SEM images are primarily interparticle (interP) pores in clay minerals and organic matter (OM) pores. The dominant pore width obtained from LPGA and MICP data is in the range of 0.3–0.7 nm and 3–20 nm. The slopes of n-decane and deionized (DI) water SFI are in the range of 0.34–0.55 and 0.22–0.38, respectively, suggesting a mixed wetting nature and better-connected hydrophobic pores than hydrophilic pores in the Shahezi shales. Low pore connectivity is identified by the dominant nano-size pore widths (0.3–20 nm), low DI water SFI slopes (around 0.25), high geometric tortuosity (4.75–8.89) and effective tortuosity (1212–6122). Pore connectivity follows the order of calcareous shale > argillaceous shale > siliceous shale. The connected pores of Shahezi shales is mainly affected by the high abundance and coexistence of OM pores and clay, carbonate minerals host pores.