bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kynurenine Is the Main Metabolite of Tryptophan Degradation by Tryptophan 2,3-Dioxygenase in HepaRG Tumor Cells
Authors: Oweira Hani , Lahdou Imad , Mehrle Stefan , Khajeh Elias , Nikbakhsh Rajan , Ghamarnejad Omid , Terness Peter , Reißfelder Christoph , Sadeghi Mahmoud , Ramouz Ali
Published: August 2022

There are two main enzymes that convert tryptophan (Trp) to kynurenine (Kyn): tryptophan-2,3-dioxygenase (TDO) and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO). Kyn accumulation can promote immunosuppression in certain cancers. In this study, we investigated Trp degradation to Kyn by IDO and TDO in primary human hepatocytes (PHH) and tumoral HepaRG cells. To quantify Trp-degradation and Kyn-accumulation, using reversed-phase high-pressure liquid chromatography, the levels of Trp and Kyn were determined in the culture media of PHH and HepaRG cells. The role of IDO in Trp metabolism was investigated by activating IDO with IFN-γ and inhibiting IDO with 1-methyl-tryptophan (1-DL-MT). The role of TDO was investigated using one of two TDO inhibitors: 680C91 or LM10. Real-time PCR was used to measure TDO and IDO expression. Trp was degraded in both PHH and HepaRG cells, but degradation was higher in PHH cells. However, Kyn accumulation was higher in the supernatants of HepaRG cells. Stimulating IDO with IFN-γ did not significantly affect Trp degradation and Kyn accumulation, even though it strongly upregulated IDO expression. Inhibiting IDO with 1-DL-MT also had no effect on Trp degradation. In contrast, inhibiting TDO with 680C91 or LM10 significantly reduced Trp degradation. The expression of TDO but not of IDO correlated positively with Kyn accumulation in the HepaRG cell culture media. Furthermore, TDO degraded L-Trp but not D-Trp in HepaRG cells. Kyn is the main metabolite of Trp degradation by TDO in HepaRG cells. The accumulation of Kyn in HepaRG cells could be a key mechanism for tumor immune resistance. Two TDO inhibitors, 680C91 and LM10, could be useful in immunotherapy for liver cancers.
Is Alcohol Consumption Associated with a Lower Risk of Cardiovascular Events in Patients Treated with Statins? An Observational Real-World Experience
Authors: Anderson Jeffrey L. , Le Viet T. , Bair Tami L. , Muhlestein Joseph B. , Knowlton Kirk U. , Horne Benjamin D.
Published: August 2022

Alcohol consumption has long been associated with cardiovascular (CV) benefit, but it also has adverse potential. Statins are currently widely used for CV prevention. We evaluated whether alcohol use is associated with lower CV risk in patients on statins. We searched Intermountain Medical Center cardiac catheterization laboratory medical records for patients with a prescription history of statin use or non-use and a self-report of alcohol use or non-use. Alcohol and statin prescription data were available together with long-term (mean [SD], 4.4 [2.4] years) major adverse CV events (MACE, including death, myocardial infarction, stroke, and heart failure hospitalizations) in 1701 patients at primary and 3266 patients at secondary CV risk. MACE rates were lower for primary prevention alcohol users than non-users not on statins (adjusted hazard ratio [adj-HR] 0.50 (95% CI 0.33, 0.78, p = 0.002), but not for those on statins (adj-HR 0.84, CI 0.54, 1.32, p = 0.45). MACE rates for secondary prevention were not reduced by alcohol consumption either in statin non-users or users (adj HR 1.18, CI 0.85, 1.64, p = 0.33; adj HR 1.08, CI 0.87, 1.35, p = 0.45, respectively). These findings, together with other recent supportive studies, can help inform personal choices in alcohol consumption and professional society recommendations for CV prevention.
Effect of Variation in the Mass Ratio on Vortex-Induced Vibration of a Circular Cylinder in Crossflow Direction at Reynold Number = 104: A Numerical Study Using RANS Model
Authors: Anwar Muhammad Usman , Lashin Maha M. A. , Khan Niaz B. , Munir Adnan , Jameel Mohammed , Muhammad Riaz , Guedri Kamel , Galal Ahmed M.
Published: August 2022

This study reports on the numerical analysis of the impact of mass ratio on the Vortex-Induced Vibration (VIV) phenomenon of an elastically rigid cylinder, oscillating freely in a crossflow direction. Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) equations with (k-ω SST) model were used to analyze the flow behavior, amplitude ratio and vortex shedding patterns. The study was performed at constant Reynold number (Re) = 104 with reduced velocity (Ur) ranging from 2 to 14 and mass ratio (m*) of 2.4 and 11. The mass ratio was defined as the ratio between mass of the vibrating cylinder and mass of the fluid displaced. It was found that increasing the mass ratio from 2.4 to 11 resulted in decrease in amplitude response by 80%, 71% and 31% at initial branch, upper to lower transition region and lower branch, respectively. However, the amplitude in the upper branch decreased only 8% at high mass ratio. The peak amplitude observed in the present study was lower than previous experimental and DES results. However, the RANS k-ω SST well captured the vortex shedding modes of 2S, 2P, P + S, and 2T. In 2S mode, two single pairs of vortices were formed, whereas in 2P mode two pairs were generated in single oscillation. Similarly, P + S meant one pair and one individual vortex; whereas 2T mode meant two triplets of vortices generated in one oscillation. The study concluded that increase in mass ratio results in shortening of the lock-in region and decrease in amplitude response.
Coccidioides Species: A Review of Basic Research: 2022
Authors: Kirkland Theo N. , Stevens David A. , Hung Chiung-Yu , Beyhan Sinem , Taylor John W. , Shubitz Lisa F. , Duttke Sascha H. , Heidari Arash , Johnson Royce H. , Deresinski Stanley C. , Lauer Antje , Fierer Joshua
Published: August 2022

Coccidioides immitis and posadasii are closely related fungal species that cause coccidioidomycosis. These dimorphic organisms cause disease in immunocompetent as well as immunocompromised individuals and as much as 40% of the population is infected in the endemic area. Although most infections resolve spontaneously, the infection can be prolonged and, in some instances, fatal. Coccidioides has been studied for more than 100 years and many aspects of the organism and the disease it causes have been investigated. There are over 500 manuscripts concerning Coccidioides (excluding clinical articles) referenced in PubMed over the past 50 years, so there is a large body of evidence to review. We reviewed the most accurate and informative basic research studies of these fungi including some seminal older studies as well as an extensive review of current research. This is an attempt to gather the most important basic research studies about this fungus into one publication. To focus this review, we will discuss the mycology of the organism exclusively rather than the studies of the host response or clinical studies. We hope that this review will be a useful resource to those interested in Coccidioides and coccidioidomycosis.
Genome Assembly and Genetic Traits of the Pleuromutilin-Producer Clitopilus passeckerianus DSM1602
Authors: Schafhauser Thomas , Wibberg Daniel , Binder Antonia , Rückert Christian , Busche Tobias , Wohlleben Wolfgang , Kalinowski Jörn
Published: August 2022

The gilled mushroom Clitopilus passeckerianus (Entolomataceae, Agaricales, Basidiomycota) is well known to produce the terpenoid pleuromutilin, which is the biotechnological basis for medically important antibiotics such as lefamulin and retapamulin. Their unique mode of action and good tolerance entails an increasing demand of pleuromutilin-derived antibiotics in veterinary and human health care. Surprisingly, despite their pharmaceutical importance, no genome sequence is available of any pleuromutilin-producing fungus. Here, we present the high-quality draft genome sequence of the pleuromutilin-producer C. passeckerianus DSM1602 including functional genome annotation. More precisely, we employed a hybrid assembly strategy combining Illumina sequencing and Nanopore sequencing to assemble the mitochondrial genome as well as the nuclear genome. In accordance with the dikaryotic state of the fungus, the nuclear genome has a diploid character. Interestingly, the mitochondrial genome appears duplicated. Bioinformatic analysis revealed a versatile secondary metabolism with an emphasis on terpenoid biosynthetic enzymes in C. passeckerianus and also in related strains. Two alleles of biosynthetic gene clusters for pleuromutilin were found in the genome of C. passeckerianus. The pleuromutilin genes were reassembled with yeast-specific elements for heterologous expression in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Our work lays the foundation for metabolic strain engineering towards higher yields of the valuable compound pleuromutilin.
Impact of Sensory Afferences in Postural Control Quantified by Force Platform: A Protocol for Systematic Review
Authors: Aflalo Joanna , Quijoux Flavien , Truong Charles , Bertin-Hugault François , Ricard Damien
Published: August 2022

Older adults’ postural balance is a critical domain of research as balance deficit is an important risk factor for falls that can lead to severe injuries and death. Considering the effects of ageing on sensory systems, we propose that posturographic evaluation with a force platform exploring the effect of sensory deprivation or perturbation on balance could help understand postural control alterations in the elderly. The aim of the future systematic review and meta-analysis described in this protocol is to explore the capacity of older adults to maintain their balance during sensory perturbations, and compare the effect of perturbation between the sensory channels contributing to balance. Seven databases will be searched for studies evaluating older adults’ balance under various sensory conditions. After evaluating the studies’ risk of bias, results from similar studies (i.e., similar experimental conditions and posturographic markers) will be aggregated. This protocol describes a future review that is expected to provide a better understanding of changes in sensory systems of balance due to ageing, and therefore perspectives on fall assessment, prevention, and rehabilitation.
Changes in Urban Growth Patterns in Busan Metropolitan City, Korea: Population and Urbanized Areas
Authors: Kim Hoyong , Kim Donghyun
Published: August 2022

Cities have exhibited spatial patterns of expansion or compacting in the process of economic and population growth. South Korea is a well-known example of a country that has experienced rapid economic growth and urbanization. This study’s target area, Busan Metropolitan City (BMC), experienced urban growth but, over the past 20 years, underwent economic and population stagnation. How will urban growth patterns change if economic and population growth stagnates? This study aimed to identify changes in urban growth patterns using population and urbanized areas in BMC, South Korea, from 1980 to 2020. It uses Exploratory Spatial Data Analysis, Bachi’s Index and the Standard Deviational Ellipse, and Social Network Analysis to identify population concentration, changes in centrality, inland expansion of urbanized land, and centrality of migration. The results showed that (1) BMC’s urban growth pattern extended outward, despite population and economic stagnation since 2000; (2) population and economic stagnation over the next 20 years expanded population polarization in the city’s urban center and outskirts; (3) the built-up area expanded in all directions for 40 years—the centrality of the urbanized area was seen in and around the urban center in 1980 but moved northeast in 2020; and (4) since 2000, when population stagnation first emerged, the centrality of the population in migration has been more evident in the outskirts. These results suggest that if there is no sustainable urban planning and development strategy when growth is stagnant, expansionary urban growth will continue, and cities will reach the growth limit.
Emerging Tools for the Interpretation of Glacial and Periglacial Landscapes with Geomorphological Interest—A Case Study Using Augmented Reality in the Mountain Pass of San Isidro (Cantabrian Range, Northwestern Spain)
Authors: Rodríguez Carmen , Sevilla Juan , Obeso Ícaro , Herrera Daniel
Published: August 2022

The application of Augmented Reality (AR), a technology that complements and enriches the live view of a place with virtual elements, is a relatively new approach that has been demonstrated to be useful as an educational tool for the interpretation of geological and geographic features. In addition, it is a technology consistent with challenges related to enhancing the geotourism experience in geologically diverse terrains, and consistent with the sustainable use of resources in rural and natural areas. The focus of AR in this contribution is primarily for academic use. Here, we developed a pioneering AR project, at the San Isidro Pass, located in the north-west of the Iberian Peninsula, more specifically, in the central-eastern sector of the Cantabrian Mountain range (the Asturian Massif) and the northern slope of the Sierra de Sentiles. This is a high mountain area where the low incidence of Pliocene and Quaternary fluvial erosion has favored the preservation of a great geodiversity. In this case study, the approaches of geology and physical geography as subjects in official university studies have been used as a reference framework. Fieldwork was carried out to design an itinerary, or geotrail, of Points of Interest (POIs), that highlight the geological values of this montane region by visualising and interpreting nine glacial and periglacial landscapes using dynamic graphic resources (animated videos, panoramic and spherical tours and rotating and expandable 3D models combining conventional terrestrial photography and 360° photography, aerial photography, thematic cartography, etc.) composed by graphic processing software. The result is the design of AR tools which could be used by public and private entities as a product suitable for university teaching but also a work that could guide other geoeducational actions or institutional action for official heritage recognition. In isolation, these POIs function as ‘geosites’; when combined in sequence (POI 1 to POI 9), these POIs function as a ‘geotrail’ to highlight the diversity of glacial and periglacial landscapes and their sedimentary deposits; when viewed as an ensemble, POIs combine to be similar to a ‘geopark’ that emphasises glacial and periglacial landscapes and sedimentary deposits.
Nandrolone Decanoate and Swimming Affects Cardiodynamic and Morphometric Parameters in the Isolated Rat Heart
Authors: Sretenovic Jasmina , Zivkovic Vladimir , Srejovic Ivan , Pantovic Suzana , Jovic Jovana Joksimovic , Nikolic Maja , Turnic Tamara Nikolic , Savic Maja , Jevdjevic Maja , Milosavljevic Zoran , Bolevich Sergej , Jakovljevic Vladimir
Published: August 2022

(1) Background: The aim of this study was to show the effects of swimming and nandrolone administration on cardiodynamic and morphometric parameters of the isolated rat heart. (2) The study included 72 Wistar rats, divided into three groups, scheduled to be sacrificed after the second, third, and fourth week. Each group was divided into four subgroups: control (T-N-), nandrolone (T-N+), swimming training (T+N-), and swimming training plus nandrolone (T+N+) group. The rats from T+N- and T+N+ swam 1 h/day, 5 days/week while ones from T-N+ and T+N+ received weekly nandrolone decanoate (20 mg/kg). The isolated hearts were perfused according to the Langendorff technique and measured parameters: dp/dt max/min, SLVP, DLVP, heart rate, and coronary flow. Hearts were fixed and stained with H/E and Masson trichrome dyes. (3) dp/dt max and dp/dt min were increased in the T-N+ group at higher perfusion pressure compared to the T-N- group. SLVP and DLVP were increased in all groups after the 4th week. Collagen content was increased in T-N+ by 403% and in T+N+ by 357% groups, while it was decreased in T+N- compared to the control after 4th week. (4) Conclusions: Nandrolone alone or combined with swimming had a deleterious effect on myocardial function and perfusion.
Herbal Vitamin C Prevents DNA Oxidation and Modifies the Metabolomic Water Profile of Tilapia (Oreochromis spp.)
Authors: Villanueva Moisés , Espinosa-Reyes Guillermo , Flores-Ramirez Rogelio , Rojas-Velazquez Angel Natanael , López Juan Carlos García , Vazquez-Valladolid Anayeli , Roque-Jimenez José Alejandro , Mendoza-Martinez German D. , Hernandez-Garcia Pedro A. , Palacios-Martinez Monika , Chay-Canul Alfonso J. , Lee-Rangel Héctor A.
Published: August 2022

This experiment aimed to evaluate the effects of herbal vitamin C at different levels on tilapia (Oreochromis spp.) growth, potential DNA damage, and the metabolomic profile of water effluent. Forty-five tilapias were housed in separate plastic tanks (80 L), and these were randomly assigned to three treatments: (a) a commercial diet (CD) only; (Nutripec Purina®); (b) the commercial diet plus 250 mg of herbal vitamin C (HVC)/kg (CD250); and (c) the commercial diet plus 500 mg of HVC/kg (CD500). Biometric measurements were taken each week, blood samples were collected from the caudal vein on the final day, and water effluent was taken each week and immediately frozen (−80 °C) until further analysis (gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) systems). Data were completely randomized with a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of treatments. Upon including herbal vitamin C, the final BW (p = 0.05) and BWG (p = 0.06) increased linearly. Herbal vitamin C decreases DNA damage (p ≥ 0.05). PLS-DA showed a 41.6% variation between treatments in the water samples. Fifteen metabolites had the best association between treatments, with a stronger correlation with CD500. Herbal vitamin C could improve fish performance, prevent DNA damage, and influence changes in the metabolomic profile of the water.
Dl-3-n-Butylphthalide Reduced Neuroinflammation by Inhibiting Inflammasome in Microglia in Mice after Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion
Authors: Liu Mengdi , Zheng Haoran , Liu Ze , Guo Yiyan , Wang Shuhong , Tang Yaohui , Tian Hengli , Zhang Zhijun , Yang Guoyuan
Published: August 2022

The inflammatory response is one of the key events in cerebral ischemia, causing secondary brain injury and neuronal death. Studies have shown that the NLRP3 inflammasome is a key factor in initiating the inflammatory response and that Dl-3-n-butylphthalide (NBP) can attenuate the inflammatory response and improve neuronal repair during ischemic stroke. However, whether NBP attenuates the inflammatory response via inhibition of NLRP3 remains unclear. A 90 min middle cerebral artery occlusion was induced in 62 2-month-old adult male ICR mice, and NBP was administered by gavage zero, one, or two days after ischemia. Brain infarct volume, neurological deficits, NLRP3, microglia, and neuronal death were examined in sacrificed mice to explore the correction between NBP effects and NLRP3 expression. NBP significantly reduced infarct volume and attenuated neurological deficits after ischemic stroke compared to controls (p < 0.05). Moreover, it inhibited ASC+ microglia activation and NLRP3 and CASP1 expression in ischemic mice. In addition, neuronal apoptosis was reduced in NBP-treated microglia cultures (p < 0.05). Our results indicate that NBP attenuates the inflammatory response in ischemic mouse brains, suggesting that NBP protects against microglia activation via the NLRP3 inflammasome.
Anthocyanin Accumulation and Molecular Analysis of Correlated Genes by Metabolomics and Transcriptomics in Sister Line Apple Cultivars
Authors: Shi Caiyun , Liu Li , Wei Zhifeng , Liu Junwei , Li Ming , Yan Zhenli , Gao Dengtao
Published: August 2022

Red coloration in apples, an important quality trait, is primarily attributed to the accumulation of anthocyanins. Centuries of breeding have produced a wide variety of apples with different levels of anthocyanins in response to genetic and environmental stimuli. The Huashuo apple shows a much darker red color than its sister line, Huarui. Thirteen different anthocyanins were detected in Huashuo and Huarui apples, of which ten were significantly more abundant in Huashuo apples, confirming that the color difference is indeed attributed to high anthocyanins accumulation rather than the types of anthocyanins. In particular, the contents of cyanidin 3-O-galactoside levels were highest among anthocyanins in both cultivars, reaching >5000 μg·g−1 at the last color transition stage in Huashuo apples, while only >3000 μg·g−1 in Huarui apples. Moreover, the expression of most structural genes, especially DFR, CHI, and 4CL associated with anthocyanin synthesis, were higher in Huashuo apples than in Huarui apples. Combined transcriptomics, metabolomics, and qRT-PCR analysis revealed that six transcription factors from the MYB and bZIP transcription factor families likely play key roles in the dark coloring of Huashuo apples. These results provide deeper insights into apple coloring and suggest a series of candidate genes for breeding anthocyanin-rich cultivars.
Properties of Human Gastric Lipase Produced by Plant Roots
Authors: Guerineau François
Published: August 2022

The properties of recombinant human gastric lipase produced in Arabidopsis thaliana roots have been investigated with the goal of determining the potential of the enzyme. This enzyme is stably bound to roots and can be extracted using a buffer at pH 2.2. This enzyme retains over 75% of its activity after two weeks at room temperature when stored in a pH 2.2 buffer. Some of this activity loss was due to the adsorption of the enzyme to the surface of the container. There was no loss of lipase activity in dehydrated roots stored at room temperature for 27 months. The half-life of the enzyme was approximately 15 min when stored in solution at 60 °C whereas dried roots retained 90% lipase activity after one hour at 80 °C. In vitro binding assays using different root cell wall extracts suggested that the lipase was bound to pectin in the roots. Lipase released from the root powder hydrolyzed tributyrin. The high stability of the recombinant human gastric lipase makes this enzyme a good candidate to be tested as a catalyst, whether in solution or bound to roots.
Pellet-Based Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF)-Derived Process for the Development of Polylactic Acid/Hydroxyapatite Scaffolds Dedicated to Bone Regeneration
Authors: Bayart Marie , Dubus Marie , Charlon Sébastien , Kerdjoudj Halima , Baleine Nicolas , Benali Samira , Raquez Jean-Marie , Soulestin Jérémie
Published: August 2022

Scaffolds can be defined as 3D architectures with specific features (surface properties, porosity, rigidity, biodegradability, etc.) that help cells to attach, proliferate, and to differentiate into specific lineage. For bone regeneration, rather high mechanical properties are required. That is why polylactic acid (PLA) and PLA/hydroxyapatite (HA) scaffolds (10 wt.%) were produced by a peculiar fused filament fabrication (FFF)-derived process. The effect of the addition of HA particles in the scaffolds was investigated in terms of morphology, biological properties, and biodegradation behavior. It was found that the scaffolds were biocompatible and that cells managed to attach and proliferate. Biodegradability was assessed over a 5-month period (according to the ISO 13781-Biodegradability norm) through gel permeation chromatography (GPC), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and compression tests. The results revealed that the presence of HA in the scaffolds induced a faster and more complete polymer biodegradation, with a gradual decrease in the molar mass (Mn) and compressive mechanical properties over time. In contrast, the Mn of PLA only decreased during the processing steps to obtain scaffolds (extrusion + 3D-printing) but PLA scaffolds did not degrade during conditioning, which was highlighted by a high retention of the mechanical properties of the scaffolds after conditioning.
Cytokines Activate JAK–STAT Signaling Pathway in MG-63 Cells on Titanium and Zirconia
Authors: Mukaddam Khaled , Ruggiero Sabrina , Berger Steffen M. , Cholewa Dietmar , Kühl Sebastian , Vegh Daniel , Payer Michael , Bornstein Michael M. , Alhawasli Farah , Fasler-Kan Elizaveta
Published: August 2022

Although titanium has been traditionally used as the gold standard for dental implants, recent years have seen the widespread application of zirconia implants given their superiority with regards to reduced bacterial adhesion, inflammation and cellular-interaction in terms of bio-compatibility. The JAK–STAT signaling pathway plays an important role in bone remodeling and formation. The aim of the study was to investigate the activation of the JAK–STAT pathway through different cytokines in osteoblast-like cells (MG-63) on zirconia in comparison to titanium discs. IFN-γ induced the very strong activation of STAT1 protein, IFN-α activated both STAT1 and STAT3 molecules, IL-6 activated STAT3 and IL-4 induced the activation of STAT6 on both surfaces. The activation of STAT proteins was confirmed by western blot, immunofluorescence and flow cytometry using phospho-specific anti-STAT antibodies, which recognize only phosphorylated STAT proteins. The incubation of MG-63 cells with IFN-γ caused the upregulation of MHC class I and class II proteins when MG-63 cells were grown on zirconia and titanium discs. In sum, the present study shows that the JAK–STAT pathway is activated in MG-63 cells when they are incubated on titanium or zirconia surfaces.
Evaluation of Corrosion Residual Life Prediction Methods for Metal Pipelines
Authors: Zuo Lili , Zeng Chunlei , Hu Xingqiao , Du Shengjie , Zhao Yun , Fei Fan
Published: August 2022

The analysis of the basic characteristics of various research methods is highly needed to predict the residual life of the pipeline accurately, help managers understand the operational risks, and provide a reference for developing pipeline transportation and maintenance inspection plans and anti-corrosion measures. Based on a comprehensive investigation of the existing research on the residual life of the pipeline, this paper finds that the current mainstream life prediction method, based on historical statistical data, has the shortcomings of inconsistent modeling methods, inconsistent basic data, and a lack of comparative evaluation among methods. Moreover, considering the in-depth study of BP neural network modeling, grey theory modeling, time series modeling, and exponential smoothing modeling, optimal prediction models using different methods based on the same historical data are established. These optimal modeling methods are discussed, and the feasible modeling path for the accurate prediction of the pipeline’s residual life is given by comparing the prediction accuracy of each model. In addition, the findings serve as a guide for developing an anti-corrosion strategy by highlighting the contribution of the prediction results of the residual life to pipeline decision-making. By comparison, it is found that the accuracy of the four prediction models is as follows: the grey theory prediction model, the exponential smoothing prediction model, the BP neural network prediction model, and the time series prediction model, from high to low, respectively.
Research on Cement Slurry Using Silica Fume Instead of Fly Ash
Authors: Wu Yue , Qiao Wei-Guo , Li Yan-Zhi , Liu Hui-Ni , Tang Chao , Zhang Shuai , Zhang Xiao-Li , Lu Ji-Gang , Chen Peng-Cheng
Published: August 2022

Ordinary cement is not environmentally friendly, has high cost and lacks superior performance. Many scholars use various admixtures to adjust the properties of cement slurry, but admixtures are usually not environmentally friendly, and it is difficult to ensure that the properties after deployment meet engineering requirements. In this study, a variety of admixtures were obtained using the environmental protection method, and the optimal mixing ratio was analyzed by combining the entropy weight method and the Taguchi grey relational analysis method. The developed cement slurry was compared with conventional slurry from both macroscopic and microscopic aspects. Aiming at the problem that previous scholars lacked the engineering feasibility verification of the developed slurry, this study combined the constitutive equation regression analysis method, discrete element numerical simulation and other methods to study various actual engineering conditions. The results show that the optimal mix ratio of silica fume cement slurry has good permeability characteristics under the conditions of different roughness, grouting pressure and confining pressure. At the same time, under different geological temperatures and different erosive liquid states, the cement slurry stone body shows good properties of reinforcement materials.
Microstructural Evolution and Hardness Responses of 7050 Al Alloy during Processing
Authors: Zhou Yuting , Zhou Jie , Xiao Xinrui , Li Shishan , Cui Mingliang , Zhang Peng , Long Shuai , Zhang Jiansheng
Published: August 2022

The thermal-mechanical process (TMP) plays an important role in the industrial production of 7050 Al alloys for aircraft components. In this work, the microstructural evolution and influence on hardness of a 7050 alloy ingot, during the process from preheating, deformation and cooling to final heat treatment, have been investigated considering the effect of temperature and the post-deformation cooling path. The results showed that an increasing temperature and decreasing cooling rate during TMP can lead to enhanced hardness of the alloy after heat treatment. Moreover, the variation of recrystallization before and after heat treatment was strongly dependent on the cooling path after deformation. Finally, this study provided a general understanding on the relationship between microstructural evolution and harness of the 7050 alloy.
Comparative Osteogenesis and Degradation Behavior of Magnesium Implant in Epiphysis and Diaphysis of the Long Bone in the Rat Model
Authors: Tran Nhat Tien , Kim Yu-Kyoung , Kim Seo-Young , Lee Min-Ho , Lee Kwang-Bok
Published: August 2022

Magnesium (Mg), as a biodegradable material, is a promising candidate for orthopedic surgery. Long-bone fractures usually occur in cancellous-bone-rich epiphysis at each end or the cortical-rich diaphysis in the center, with different bone healing processes. Little is known about the differences in results between the two regions when applying Mg implants. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the biodegradation and osteogenesis of Mg implants in a rat model’s epiphysis and diaphysis of the long bone. Twelve male Sprague Dawley rats underwent Mg rod implantation in the distal femoral epiphyses and tibial diaphyses. Every three weeks for up to twelve weeks, degradation behavior, gas evolution, and new bone formation were measured by micro CT. Histomorphology was analyzed by Hematoxylin and Eosin, Villanueva bone staining, and TRAP staining for osteoclastogenesis evaluations. Micro-CT analysis showed statistically significant higher new bone formation in the epiphysis group than in the diaphysis group, which correlated with a lower gas volume. Histological analysis showed higher osseointegration of Mg implants in the epiphyseal region than in the diaphyseal region. The magnesium implant’s osteoclastogenesis-inhibiting properties were shown in the surrounding areas in both the cortical bone of the diaphysis and the cancellous bone of the epiphysis. Our findings show the differences in the magnesium implant’s osteogenesis and biodegradation in the epiphysis and the diaphysis. These dissimilarities indicate a better response of the epiphyseal region to the Mg implants, a promising biomaterial for orthopedic surgery applications.
A Novel Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Compatible Titanium Alloy Wire-Reinforced Endotracheal Tube
Authors: Ryu Bikei , Okada Yoshikazu , Fujita Nobuko , Nagasaka Yasuko
Published: August 2022

Reinforced endotracheal tubes (ET) are advantageous in preventing tube obstruction and kinking by procedural compression during neurosurgeries. However, the standard reinforced ET contains an embedded stainless steel (SS) helical wire, which produces artifacts and heat during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Therefore, MRI is not indicated in the presence of a reinforced ET containing SS. To overcome this challenge, we developed an MRI-compatible titanium (Ti) reinforced ET. A newly developed Ti alloy helical wire was inserted in a reinforced ET. Here, we report our first clinical experience with six patients who underwent neurosurgery intubated with this Ti-alloy-reinforced ET. The Ti-alloy-reinforced ET was used in six patients requiring reinforced ET intubation. It was clearly delineated on radiography, and metal artifacts were small on computed tomography. Patients intubated with the Ti-alloy-reinforced ET could safely undergo MRI under sedation. MR images without remarkable susceptibility artifacts were obtained without noted adverse effects. We invented a novel Ti-alloy-reinforced ET. This device allows clinical use during MRI because it is less susceptible to artifacts in high magnetic fields.
Characterization and Evaluation of Engineered Coating Techniques for Different Cutting Tools—Review
Authors: Dabees Sameh , Mirzaei Saeed , Kaspar Pavel , Holcman Vladimír , Sobola Dinara
Published: August 2022

Coatings are now frequently used on cutting tool inserts in the metal production sector due to their better wear resistance and heat barrier effect. Protective hard coatings with a thickness of a few micrometers are created on cutting tools using physical or chemical vapor deposition (PVD, CVD) to increase their application performance. Different coating materials are utilized for a wide range of cutting applications, generally in bi-or multilayer stacks, and typically belong to the material classes of nitrides, carbides, carbonitrides, borides, boronitrides, or oxides. The current study examines typical hard coatings deposited by PVD and CVD in the corresponding material classes. The present state of research is reviewed, and pioneering work on this subject as well as recent results leading to the construction of complete “synthesis–structure–property–application performance” correlations of the different coatings are examined. When compared to uncoated tools, tool coatings prevent direct contact between the workpiece and the tool substrate, altering cutting temperature and machining performance. The purpose of this paper is to examine the effect of cutting-zone temperatures on multilayer coating characteristics during the metal-cutting process. Simplified summary and comparisons of various coating types on cutting tools based on distinct deposition procedures. Furthermore, existing and prospective issues for the hard coating community are discussed.
Experimental Characterization and Multi-Factor Modelling to Achieve Desired Flow, Set and Strength of N-A-S-H Geopolymers
Authors: Yi Chaofan , Boluk Yaman , Bindiganavile Vivek
Published: August 2022

The interaction between compositional ratios, namely, SiO2/Al2O3, Na2O/Al2O3, H2O/Na2O and the liquid-to-solid ratio, triggers mutual sacrifice between workability, setting time and strength for N-A-S-H geopolymers. The present study characterizes the mechanism underlying the effect of these compositional ratios and, in turn, develops guidelines for mixture design that requires a simultaneous and satisfactory delivery of these engineering properties. The experimental results show that an increase in either the SiO2/Al2O3, Na2O/Al2O3 or H2O/Na2O ratio raises the liquid-to-solid ratio, which in turn improves the workability of fresh mixtures. A continuous increase beyond 2.8 for the SiO2/Al2O3 ratio boosts its strength, but also significantly extends its final set. Lowering the Na2O/Al2O3 ratio from 1.3 to 0.75 raises the compressive strength significantly, while the shortest final set was seen at the median value, 1.0. A H2O/Na2O ratio of 9~10 yields the highest strength and the fastest final set simultaneously, due to the maximized degree of geopolymerization. Moreover, the accompanying sensitivity analysis indicates that the workability depends chiefly upon the H2O/Na2O ratio, the final setting time on the SiO2/Al2O3 ratio and, that the compressive strength relies on both of them. Also, this study proposes an optimal range of 2.8~3.6 for SiO2/Al2O3, 0.75~1.0 for Na2O/Al2O3 and 9~10 for H2O/Na2O to guarantee high strength, together with high flow and within the allowable final setting time. Furthermore, multi-factor predictive models are established with acceptable accuracy for practitioners to regulate oxide compositions in N-A-S-H geopolymers, which will guide future mixture design.
Incorporation of Ornamental Stone Waste in the Manufacturing of Red Ceramics
Authors: Gadioli Mônica Castoldi Borlini , de Aguiar Mariane Costalonga , Vidal Francisco Wilson Hollanda , Sant’Ana Maria Angelica Kramer , de Almeida Kayrone Marvila , Giori Ana Júlia Nali
Published: August 2022

Brazil is one of the largest producers of ornamental stones in the world. The state of Espírito Santo has considerable social and economic relevance in the production of ornamental stones, particularly in exportation and the jobs that are directly related to this industry. The objectives of this work were to evaluate the effect of the incorporation of ornamental stone waste on the physical and mechanical properties of red ceramic manufactured using clays and waste from the state of Espírito Santo, and to collaborate to regulate the use of this ornamental stone waste in the ceramic industry when manufacturing products. Ornamental stone wastes were incorporated into the ceramic mass in the following proportions: 0, 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50% by weight. In the elaborated compositions, specimens were prepared by extrusion and were fired at 1050 °C and 1100 °C. After firing, the physical and mechanical properties of the material were analyzed using density, water absorption, porosity, linear shrinkage and mechanical strength. The results indicated an improvement in the properties of the ceramics with the addition of the waste by mass for the two temperatures. Therefore, the lower temperature (1050 °C) can be used to sinter the materials produced whilst obtaining satisfactory results and saving electrical energy. Ornamental stone waste has very promising applications in the ceramic industry.
Research on Vibration Propagation Law and Dynamic Effect of Bench Blasting
Authors: He Lu , Kong Dezhong , Lei Zhen
Published: August 2022

To address the problem of damage to adjacent buildings (structures) caused by bench blasting construction, blasting in a sand and gravel mine in Guizhou Province was used as the background. Through on-site monitoring and numerical simulation, the blasting vibration propagation law and dynamic effect characteristics under the joint action of different bench heights and horizontal distances were studied. The regression model was established. The results show that: the peak vibration speed in all three directions with the increase in the horizontal distance of the burst center is a decaying trend, and the field measurements are basically consistent with the safe vibration speed and do not exceed 1.5 cm/s, so the house is in a safe state; shear stress with the increase in the horizontal distance of the burst center strictly decays, so the source of the shear stress and vibration speed decay faster in the near zone, with the slow decay in the far zone; analysis found that the shear stress and vibration speed are quadratic and exponential. Through the analysis of the regression model, it is obtained that there is no co-linearity among the influencing factors, which has a significant effect on the regression equation and regression coefficient, and so the multiple linear regression equation fits well. The model can predict the blast vibration intensity, which can be used as a safety criterion for buildings under the action of blasting, and provides a reference for blast vibration control, hole network parameters, and the design index.
ADMM-Based Differential Privacy Learning for Penalized Quantile Regression on Distributed Functional Data
Authors: Zhou Xingcai , Xiang Yu
Published: August 2022

Alternating Direction Method of Multipliers (ADMM) is a widely used machine learning tool in distributed environments. In the paper, we propose an ADMM-based differential privacy learning algorithm (FDP-ADMM) on penalized quantile regression for distributed functional data. The FDP-ADMM algorithm can resist adversary attacks to avoid the possible privacy leakage in distributed networks, which is designed by functional principal analysis, an approximate augmented Lagrange function, ADMM algorithm, and privacy policy via Gaussian mechanism with time-varying variance. It is also a noise-resilient, convergent, and computationally effective distributed learning algorithm, even if for high privacy protection. The theoretical analysis on privacy and convergence guarantees is derived and offers a privacy–utility trade-off: a weaker privacy guarantee would result in better utility. The evaluations on simulation-distributed functional datasets have demonstrated the effectiveness of the FDP-ADMM algorithm even if under high privacy guarantee.
An Interval-Simplex Approach to Determine Technological Parameters from Experimental Data
Authors: Beloglazov Ilia , Krylov Kirill
Published: August 2022

Statistical equations are widely used to describe the laws of various chemical technological processes. The values of constants and parameters included in these equations are determined by various methods. Methods that can determine the values of equation parameters using a limited amount of experimental data are of particular practical interest. In this manuscript, we propose a method to obtain simplex-interval equations. The proposed approach can be effectively used to control the values of technological process parameters. In this paper, we consider examples of chemical kinetics equation transformations and heterogeneous processes of solid particle dissolution. In addition, we describes mathematical model transformations, including equations for functions of the residence time distribution (RTD) of apparatus particles, the distribution of particles by size, etc. Finally, we apply the proposed approach to an example involving modeling of the calcination of coke in a tubular rotary kiln.
Identification of PKS-NRPS Hybrid Metabolites in Marine-Derived Penicillium oxalicum
Authors: Li Hongcheng , Zhang Wei , Zhang Xuan , Tang Shen , Men Ping , Xiong Mengyi , Li Zhimin , Zhang Yongyu , Huang Xuenian , Lu Xuefeng
Published: August 2022

Filamentous fungi are abundant resources of bioactive natural products. Here, 151 marine-derived fungi were collected from the north Yellow Sea and identified by an internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequence. The crude extracts of all strains were evaluated for their antimicrobial activities and analyzed by HPLC fingerprint. Based on these, strain Penicillium oxalicum MEFC104 was selected for further investigation. Two new polyketide–amino acid hybrid compounds with feature structures of tetramic acid, oxopyrrolidine A and B, were isolated. Their planner structures were assigned by HRESIMS and 1D/2D NMR experiments. The absolute configurations were determined by modified Mosher’s method, J-based configuration analysis, and ECD calculations. Furthermore, the biosynthetic pathway was identified by bioinformatic analysis and gene-deletion experiments. This study established a link between oxopyrrolidines and the corresponding biosynthesis genes in P. oxalicum.
Evaluation of the Efficiency of Hand Hygiene Technique with Hydroalcoholic Solution by Image Color Summarize
Authors: Saveanu Catalina Iulia , Anistoroaei Daniela , Todireasa Stefan , Saveanu Alexandra Ecaterina , Bobu Livia Ionela , Bamboi Irina , Boronia Octavian , Balcos Carina
Published: August 2022

Background and Objectives: The HH (hand hygiene) technique is relatively simple. Even so, in practice there are still non-conformities regarding this aspect. Lack of knowledge or lack of compliance can be reasons for non-adherence with HH techniques. In this context, the purpose of this study was to follow the realization of the hand-washing technique with hydroalcoholic solution, applied before and after receiving the HH recommendations. Materials and Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted from May 2022 to June 2022. Students from a second year dental medicine class teaching in French 2021/22 “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Iasi were included in the study. The approval of the ethics commission was received: No. 184/05.05.2022. The study was conducted in two stages. In the first stage, HH was performed without any recommendation. In the second stage, the antiseptic hand rubbing technique was presented following the WHO recommendations. The fluorescent Fluo-Add solution, Wood lamp for dermatology (4 × 5.5 W ultraviolet tubes with a wavelength of 360 nm), and photo camera were used. Subjects performed their HH movement before and after receiving instructions according to WHO. Images were initially taken from the backhand and palm and were finally analyzed with Image Color Summarizer. The data were analyzed by the Mann–Whitney U Test, t-test paired samples using IBM-SPSS version 26 (IBM, Armonk, NY, USA), and p ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: After analyzing the images, there were 70 subjects, 45.7% (32) female and 54.33% (38) male. Final average covered area of backhand was 60.89% (±17.17), 28.84:86.11, compared to 52.07% (±17.04), 9:85.23. Final average covered area for palm was 69.91% (±13.5), 31.61:93.41 compared to 59.74% (±16.64), 26.13:92.72. No statistical significance was obtained by gender. Conclusions: The study showed an improvement in hand hygiene technique without highlighting gender differences.
Influence of Pretreatment Processes on Adhesion of Ni/Cu/Ni Multilayer on Polyetherimide Resin Reinforced with Glass Fibers
Authors: Xu Xiaodong , Xie Dingkai , Huang Jiaqi , Liu Kunming , He Guang , Zhang Yi , Jiang Peng , Tang Lixin , Wu Wangping
Published: August 2022

The metallization of polyetherimide (PEI) is widely considered to enhance its surface properties and enhance its application in engineering fields; however, adhesion is a key factor in determining the reliability of PEI metallization. A Ni/Cu/Ni multilayer coating was successfully manufactured on a batch of PEI resin reinforced with glass fibers by a two-step metallization process, including sandblasting and activation/acceleration. The microstructure and morphology of the top-surface and cross-section of the coatings were observed by scanning electron microscopy. The chemical state and composition of the deposits were characterized by both X-ray photoelectron and energy-dispersive spectroscopy. The adhesion state was qualitatively evaluated by cross-cut tests with 3M tape. The surface roughness of the substrate significantly increased after the sandblasting process, which could improve the adhesion between the multilayer coating and the PEI substrate. After the standard activation process, the acceleration made an effect on the deposition of the initial Ni layer for electroless plating. The influence of acceleration on the appearance quality of metallization on the PEI substrate was studied and, at the same time, the mechanism of acceleration was investigated and addressed.