bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neoadjuvant Endocrine Therapy in Breast Cancer: Current Knowledge and Future Perspectives
Authors: Barchiesi Giacomo , Mazzotta Marco , Krasniqi Eriseld , Pizzuti Laura , Marinelli Daniele , Capomolla Elisabetta , Sergi Domenico , Amodio Antonella , Natoli Clara , Gamucci Teresa , Vizza Enrico , Marchetti Paolo , Botti Claudio , Sanguineti Giuseppe , Ciliberto Gennaro , Barba Maddalena , Vici Patrizia
Published: May 2020

In locally advanced (LA) breast cancer (BC), neoadjuvant treatments have led to major achievements, which hold particular relevance in HER2-positive and triple-negative BC. Conversely, their role in hormone receptor positive (HR+), hormone epidermal growth factor 2 negative (HER2-) BC is still under debate, mainly due to the generally low rates of pathological complete response (pCR) and lower accuracy of pCR as predictors of long-term outcomes in this patient subset. While administration of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NCT) in LA, HR+, HER2- BC patients is widely used in clinical practice, neoadjuvant endocrine therapy (NET) still retains an unfulfilled potential in the management of these subgroups, particularly in elderly and unfit patients. In addition, NET has gained a central role as a platform to test new drugs and predictive biomarkers in previously untreated patients. We herein present historical data regarding Tamoxifen and/or Aromatase Inhibitors and a debate on recent evidence regarding agents such as CDK4/6 and PI3K/mTOR inhibitors in the neoadjuvant setting. We also discuss key issues concerning the optimal treatment length, appropriate comparisons with NCT efficacy and use of NET in premenopausal patients.
The Influence of Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth in Digestive and Extra-Intestinal Disorders
Authors: Losurdo Giuseppe , D’Abramo Fulvio Salvatore , Indellicati Giuseppe , Lillo Chiara , Ierardi Enzo , Di Leo Alfredo
Published: May 2020

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is a condition hallmarked by an increase in the concentration of colonic-type bacteria in the small bowel. Watery diarrhea, bloating, abdominal pain and distension are the most common clinical manifestations. Additionally, malnutrition and vitamin (B12, D, A, and E) as well as minerals (iron and calcium) deficiency may be present. SIBO may mask or worsen the history of some diseases (celiac disease, irritable bowel disease), may be more common in some extra-intestinal disorders (scleroderma, obesity), or could even represent a pathogenetic link with some diseases, in which a perturbation of intestinal microbiota may be involved. On these bases, we performed a review to explore the multiple links between SIBO and digestive and extra-intestinal diseases.
RORγt Inhibitor-SR1001 Halts Retinal Inflammation, Capillary Degeneration, and the Progression of Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Zapadka Thomas E. , Lindstrom Sarah I. , Taylor Brooklyn E. , Lee Chieh A. , Tang Jie , Taylor Zakary R. R. , Howell Scott J. , Taylor Patricia R.
Published: May 2020

Diabetic retinopathy is a diabetes-mediated retinal microvascular disease that is the leading cause of blindness in the working-age population worldwide. Interleukin (IL)-17A is an inflammatory cytokine that has been previously shown to play a pivotal role in the promotion and progression of diabetic retinopathy. Retinoic acid-related orphan receptor gammaT (RORγt) is a ligand-dependent transcription factor that mediates IL-17A production. However, the role of RORγt in diabetes-mediated retinal inflammation and capillary degeneration, as well as its potential therapeutic attributes for diabetic retinopathy has not yet been determined. In the current study, we examined retinal inflammation and vascular pathology in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice. We found RORγt expressing cells in the retinal vasculature of diabetic mice. Further, diabetes-mediated retinal inflammation, oxidative stress, and retinal endothelial cell death were all significantly lower in RORγt−/− mice. Finally, when a RORγt small molecule inhibitor (SR1001) was subcutaneously injected into diabetic mice, retinal inflammation and capillary degeneration were ameliorated. These findings establish a pathologic role for RORγt in the onset of diabetic retinopathy and identify a potentially novel therapeutic for this blinding disease.
Endocannabinoid System in Health and Disease: Current Situation and Future Perspectives
Authors: Meccariello Rosaria
Published: May 2020

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex signaling system that includes cannabinoid receptors, their endogenous ligands (endocannabinoids), and biosynthetic and hydrolytic enzymes [...]
Intronic Alternative Polyadenylation in the Middle of the DMD Gene Produces Half-Size N-Terminal Dystrophin with a Potential Implication of ECG Abnormalities of DMD Patients
Authors: Rani Abdul Qawee Mahyoob , Yamamoto Tetsushi , Kawaguchi Tatsuya , Maeta Kazuhiro , Awano Hiroyuki , Nishio Hisahide , Matsuo Masafumi
Published: May 2020

The DMD gene is one of the largest human genes, being composed of 79 exons, and encodes dystrophin Dp427m which is deficient in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). In some DMD patient, however, small size dystrophin reacting with antibody to N-terminal but not to C-terminal has been identified. The mechanism to produce N-terminal small size dystrophin remains unknown. Intronic polyadenylation is a mechanism that produces a transcript with a new 3′ terminal exon and a C-terminal truncated protein. In this study, intronic alternative polyadenylation was disclosed to occur in the middle of the DMD gene and produce the half-size N-terminal dystrophin Dp427m, Dpm234. The 3′-rapid amplification of cDNA ends revealed 421 bp sequence in the downstream of DMD exon 41 in U-251 glioblastoma cells. The cloned sequence composing of the 5′ end sequence of intron 41 was decided as the terminal exon, since it encoded poly (A) signal followed by poly (A) stretch. Subsequently, a fragment from DMD exon M1 to intron 41 was obtained by PCR amplification. This product was named Dpm234 after its molecular weight. However, Dpm234 was not PCR amplified in human skeletal and cardiac muscles. Remarkably, Dpm234 was PCR amplified in iPS-derived cardiomyocytes. Accordingly, Western blotting of cardiomyocyte proteins showed a band of 234 kDa reacting with dystrophin antibody to N-terminal, but not C-terminal. Clinically, DMD patients with mutations in the Dpm234 coding region were found to have a significantly higher likelihood of two ECG abnormal findings. Intronic alternative splicing was first revealed in Dp427m to produce small size dystrophin.
Human Spinal Motor Neurons Are Particularly Vulnerable to Cerebrospinal Fluid of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Patients
Authors: Bräuer Stefan , Günther René , Sterneckert Jared , Glaß Hannes , Hermann Andreas
Published: May 2020

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most common and devastating motor neuron (MN) disease. Its pathophysiological cascade is still enigmatic. More than 90% of ALS patients suffer from sporadic ALS, which makes it specifically demanding to generate appropriate model systems. One interesting aspect considering the seeding, spreading and further disease development of ALS is the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). We therefore asked whether CSF from sporadic ALS patients is capable of causing disease typical changes in human patient-derived spinal MN cultures and thus could represent a novel model system for sporadic ALS. By using induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived MNs from healthy controls and monogenetic forms of ALS we could demonstrate a harmful effect of ALS-CSF on healthy donor-derived human MNs. Golgi fragmentation—a typical finding in lower organism models and human postmortem tissue—was induced solely by addition of ALS-CSF, but not control-CSF. No other neurodegenerative hallmarks—including pathological protein aggregation—were found, underpinning Golgi fragmentation as early event in the neurodegenerative cascade. Of note, these changes occurred predominantly in MNs, the cell type primarily affected in ALS. We thus present a novel way to model early features of sporadic ALS.
Diagnostic and Therapeutic Value of Aptamers in Envenomation Cases
Authors: Ascoët Steven , De Waard Michel
Published: May 2020

It is now more than a century since Albert Calmette from the Institut Pasteur changed the world of envenomation by demonstrating that antibodies raised against animal venoms have the ability to treat human victims of previously fatal bites or stings. Moreover, the research initiated at that time effectively launched the discipline of toxicology, first leading to the search for toxic venom components, followed by the demonstration of venoms that also contained compounds of therapeutic value. Interest from pharmaceutical companies to treat envenomation is, however, declining, mainly for economic reasons, and hence, the World Health Organization has reclassified this public health issue to be a highest priority concern. While the production, storage, and safety of antivenom sera suffer from major inconveniences, alternative chemical and technological approaches to the problem of envenomation need to be considered that bypass the use of antibodies for toxin neutralization. Herein, we review an emerging strategy that relies on the use of aptamers and discuss how close—or otherwise—we are to finding a viable alternative to the use of antibodies for the therapy of human envenomation.
Expression of Genes Involved in Axon Guidance: How Much Have We Learned?
Authors: Kim Sung Wook , Kim Kyong-Tai
Published: May 2020

Neuronal axons are guided to their target during the development of the brain. Axon guidance allows the formation of intricate neural circuits that control the function of the brain, and thus the behavior. As the axons travel in the brain to find their target, they encounter various axon guidance cues, which interact with the receptors on the tip of the growth cone to permit growth along different signaling pathways. Although many scientists have performed numerous studies on axon guidance signaling pathways, we still have an incomplete understanding of the axon guidance system. Lately, studies on axon guidance have shifted from studying the signal transduction pathways to studying other molecular features of axon guidance, such as the gene expression. These new studies present evidence for different molecular features that broaden our understanding of axon guidance. Hence, in this review we will introduce recent studies that illustrate different molecular features of axon guidance. In particular, we will review literature that demonstrates how axon guidance cues and receptors regulate local translation of axonal genes and how the expression of guidance cues and receptors are regulated both transcriptionally and post-transcriptionally. Moreover, we will highlight the pathological relevance of axon guidance molecules to specific diseases.
A Social Multi-Agent Cooperation System Based on Planning and Distributed Task Allocation
Authors: Gharbi Atef
Published: May 2020

Planning and distributed task allocation are considered challenging problems. To address them, autonomous agents called planning agents situated in a multi-agent system should cooperate to achieve planning and complete distributed tasks. We propose a solution for distributed task allocation where agents dynamically allocate the tasks while they are building the plans. We model and verify some properties using computation tree logic (CTL) with the model checker its-ctl. Lastly, simulations are performed to verify the effectiveness of our proposed solution. The result proves that it is very efficient as it requires little message exchange and computational time. A benchmark production system is used as a running example to explain our contribution.
The Use of Donor-Derived Cell-Free DNA for Assessment of Allograft Rejection and Injury Status
Authors: Thongprayoon Charat , Vaitla Pradeep , Craici Iasmina M. , Leeaphorn Napat , Hansrivijit Panupong , Salim Sohail Abdul , Bathini Tarun , Cabeza Rivera Franco H. , Cheungpasitporn Wisit
Published: May 2020

Patient monitoring after kidney transplantation (KT) for early detection of allograft rejection remains key in preventing allograft loss. Serum creatinine has poor predictive value to detect ongoing active rejection as its increase is not sensitive, nor specific for acute renal allograft rejection. Diagnosis of acute rejection requires allograft biopsy and histological assessment, which can be logistically challenging in some cases and carries inherent risk for complications related to procedure. Donor-derived cell-free DNA (dd-cfDNA), DNA of donor origin in the blood of KT recipient arising from cells undergoing injury and death, has been examined as a potential surrogate marker for allograft rejection. A rise in dd-cfDNA levels precedes changes in serum creatinine allows early detections and use as a screening tool for allograft rejection. In addition, when used in conjunction with donor-specific antibodies (DSA), it increases the pre-biopsy probability of antibody-mediated rejection (ABMR) aiding the decision-making process. Advancements in noninvasive biomarker assays such as dd-cfDNA may offer the opportunity to improve and expand the spectrum of available diagnostic tools to monitor and detect risk for rejection and positively impact outcomes for KT recipients. In this this article, we discussed the evolution of dd-cfDNA assays and recent evidence of assessment of allograft rejection and injury status of KT by the use of dd-cfDNA.
Incidental Carcinoma after Cholecystectomy for Benign Disease of the Gallbladder: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Pyo Jung-Soo , Son Byoung Kwan , Lee Hyo Young , Oh Il Whan , Chung Kwang Hyun
Published: May 2020

This study aimed to determine the incidence and the prognosis of incidental carcinoma of the gallbladder (IGBC) after cholecystectomy through a meta-analysis. This meta-analysis included 51 studies and 436,636 patients with cholecystectomy. The incidence rate of IGBC after cholecystectomy was 0.6% (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.5–0.8%). The incidence rate of recent studies was not significantly different from those of past studies. The mean age and female ratio of the IGBC subgroup were not significantly different from those of the overall patient group. The estimated rates of IGBC were 13.0%, 34.1%, 39.7%, 22.7%, and 12.5% in the pTis, pT1, pT2, pT3, and pT4 stages, respectively. Patients with IGBC had a favorable overall survival rate compared to patients with non-IGBC (hazard ratio (HR) 0.574, 95% CI 0.445–0.739). However, there was no significant difference of disease-free survival between the IGBC and non-IGBC subgroups (HR 0.931, 95% CI 0.618–1.402). IGBC was found in 0.6% of patients with cholecystectomy. The prognosis of patients with IGBC was favorable compared to those with non-IGBC. In the pathologic examination after cholecystectomy for benign diseases, a sufficient examination for histology should be guaranteed to detect IGBC.
Interactions between Amyloid-Β Proteins and Human Brain Pericytes: Implications for the Pathobiology of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: J. Alcendor Donald
Published: May 2020

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that is the most common cause of dementia, especially among aging populations. Despite advances in AD research, the underlying cause and the discovery of disease-modifying treatments have remained elusive. Two key features of AD pathology are the aberrant deposition of amyloid beta (amyloid-β or Aβ) proteins in the brain parenchyma and Aβ toxicity in brain pericytes of the neurovascular unit/blood–brain barrier (NVU/BBB). This toxicity induces oxidative stress in pericytes and leads to capillary constriction. The interaction between pericytes and Aβ proteins results in the release of endothelin-1 in the pericytes. Endothelin-1 interacts with ETA receptors to cause pericyte contraction. This pericyte-mediated constriction of brain capillaries can cause chronic hypoperfusion of the brain microvasculature, subsequently leading to the neurodegeneration and cognitive decline observed in AD patients. The interaction between Aβ proteins and brain pericytes is largely unknown and requires further investigation. This review provides an updated overview of the interaction between Aβ proteins with pericytes, one the most significant and often forgotten cellular components of the BBB and the inner blood–retinal barrier (IBRB). The IBRB has been shown to be a window into the central nervous system (CNS) that could allow the early diagnosis of AD pathology in the brain and the BBB using modern photonic imaging systems such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) and two-photon microscopy. In this review, I explore the regulation of Aβ proteins in the brain parenchyma, their role in AD pathobiology, and their association with pericyte function. This review discusses Aβ proteins and pericytes in the ocular compartment of AD patients as well as strategies to rescue or protect pericytes from the effects of Aβ proteins, or to replace them with healthy cells.
Identification and Validation of Aerobic Adaptation QTLs in Upland Rice
Authors: Xu Peng , Yang Jun , Ma Zhenbing , Yu Diqiu , Zhou Jiawu , Tao Dayun , Li Zichao
Published: May 2020

The aerobic adaptation of upland rice is considered as the key genetic difference between upland rice and lowland rice. Genetic dissection of the aerobic adaptation is important as the basis for improving drought tolerance and terrestrial adaptation by using the upland rice. We raised BC1-BC3 introgression lines (ILs) in lowland rice Minghui 63 (MH63) background. The QTLs of yield and yield-related traits were detected based on ILs under the aerobic and lowland environments, and then the yield-related QTLs were identified in a backcrossed inbred population of BC4F5 under aerobic condition. We further verified phenotypes of QTL near-isogenic lines. Finally, three QTLs responsible for increasing yield in aerobic environment were detected by multiple locations and generations, which were designated as qAER1, qAER3, and qAER9 (QTL of aerobic adaptation). The qAER1 and qAER9 were fine-mapped. We found that qAER1 and qAER9 controlled plant height and heading date, respectively; while both of them increased yields simultaneously by suitable plant height and heading date without delay in the aerobic environment. The phenotypic differences between lowland rice and upland rice in the aerobic environment further supported the above results. We pyramided the two QTLs as corresponding molecular modules in the irrigated lowland rice MH63 background, and successfully developed a new upland rice variety named as Zhongkexilu 2. This study will lay the foundation for using aerobic adaptation QTLs in rice breeding programs and for further cloning the key genes involved in aerobic adaptation.
A Study of Wear in Thin Coatings Applied to Convex-Concave Gearings
Authors: Bošanský Miroslav , Gondár Ernest , Švec Pavol , Toth František , Protasov Roman
Published: May 2020

The submitted contribution deals with the wear of thin coatings applied to convex–concave gearings for gear made from C45E steel. The influence of the tribological characteristics (friction coefficient, wear, adhesion and hardness) of the TiN, TiCN coatings and the combined coating of TiCN + MoS2 on convex–concave gearing is described, from the aspects of scuffing formation. Scuffing tests were done on C–C gears. Coatings were applied by arc–ion-plating (AIP) and magnetron sputter-ion-plating (MSIP) methods. The thickness of the deposited coating and its chemical composition were determined by SEM and EDX analysis. Load-bearing capacity was evaluated by a Niemann tester. The TiCN + MoS2 combined coating with the MoS2 layer on the top reached the lowest coefficient of friction. However, after a rapid wearing of the MoS2 layer, this value dropped to a comparable value of TiCN. The nano-hardness of the TiCN layer was higher in comparison with TiN. Thin and soft MoS2 layers cracked already at lower load levels and separated from the substrate at the 5th load stage. The formation of scuffings for selected coatings documented in this article was solved for convex–concave gearing working also in interaction with Biogear S 150 and Biohyd MS 46 oils.
High Yield Synthesis and Application of Magnetite Nanoparticles (Fe3O4)
Authors: Wroblewski Charles , Volford Tunde , Martos Blake , Samoluk Jurek , Martos Perry
Published: May 2020

Magnetite nanoparticles (Fe3O4), average particle size of 12.9 nm, were synthesized de novo from ferrous and ferric iron salt solutions (total iron salt concentration of 3.8 mM) using steady-state headspace NH3(g), 3.3% v/v, at room temperature and pressure, without mechanical agitation, resulting in >99.9% yield. Nanoparticles size distributions were based on enumeration of TEM images and chemical compositions analyzed by: XRD, EDXRF, and FT-IR; super-paramagnetic properties were analyzed by magnetization saturation (74 emu/g). Studies included varying headspace [NH3(g)] (1.6, 3.3, 8.4% v/v), and total iron concentrations (1.0 mM, 3.8 mM, 10.0 mM, and >>10 mM). An application of the unmodified synthesized magnetite nanoparticles included analyses of tetracycline’s (50, 100, 200, 300, and 400 ppb) in aqueous, which was compared to the same tetracycline concentrations prepared in aqueous synthesis suspension with >97% extraction, analyzed with LC-MS/MS.
A Class of Quantum Briot–Bouquet Differential Equations with Complex Coefficients
Authors: Ibrahim Rabha W. , Elobaid Rafida M. , Obaiys Suzan J.
Published: May 2020

Quantum inequalities (QI) are local restraints on the magnitude and range of formulas. Quantum inequalities have been established to have a different range of applications. In this paper, we aim to introduce a study of QI in a complex domain. The idea basically, comes from employing the notion of subordination. We shall formulate a new q-differential operator (generalized of Dunkl operator of the first type) and employ it to define the classes of QI. Moreover, we employ the q-Dunkl operator to extend the class of Briot–Bouquet differential equations. We investigate the upper solution and exam the oscillation solution under some analytic functions.
Fucosterol Suppresses the Progression of Human Ovarian Cancer by Inducing Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress
Authors: Bae Hyocheol , Lee Jin-Young , Song Gwonhwa , Lim Whasun
Published: May 2020

Ovarian cancer is difficult to diagnose early and has high rates of relapse and mortality. Therefore, the treatment of ovarian cancer needs to be improved. Recently, several studies have been conducted in an attempt to develop anticancer drugs from naturally derived ingredients. Compared to traditional chemotherapy, natural compounds can overcome drug resistance with lower side effects. Fucosterol, a phytosterol present in brown algae, reportedly possesses many bioactive effects, including anticancer properties. However, the anticancer effects of fucosterol in ovarian cancer remain unexplored. Therefore, we investigated the effects of fucosterol on progression in human ovarian cancer cells. Fucosterol inhibited cell proliferation and cell-cycle progression in ovarian cancer cells. Additionally, fucosterol regulated the proliferation-related signaling pathways, the production of reactive oxygen species, mitochondrial function, endoplasmic reticulum stress, angiogenesis, and calcium homeostasis. Moreover, it decreased tumor formation in a zebrafish xenograft model. These results indicate that fucosterol could be used as a potential therapeutic agent in ovarian cancer.
Effect of Chitosan as a Cross-Linker on Matrix Metalloproteinase Activity and Bond Stability with Different Adhesive Systems
Authors: Baena Eugenia , Cunha Sandra R , Maravić Tatjana , Comba Allegra , Paganelli Federica , Alessandri-Bonetti Giulio , Ceballos Laura , Tay Franklin R , Breschi Lorenzo , Mazzoni Annalisa
Published: May 2020

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of 0.1% chitosan (Ch) solution as an additional primer on the mechanical durability and enzymatic activity on dentine using an etch-and-rinse (E&R) adhesive and a universal self-etch (SE) adhesive. Microtensile bond strength and interfacial nanoleakage expression of the bonded interfaces for all adhesives (with or without pretreatment with 0.1% Ch solution for 1 min and air-dried for 5 s) were analyzed immediately and after 10,000 thermocycles. Zymograms of protein extracts from human dentine powder incubated with Optibond FL and Scotchbond Universal on untreated or Ch-treated dentine were obtained to examine dentine matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activities. The use of 0.1% Ch solution as an additional primer in conjunction with the E&R or SE adhesive did not appear to have influenced the immediate bond strength (T0) or bond strength after thermocycling (T1). Zymography showed a reduction in MMP activities only for mineralized and demineralized dentine powder after the application of Ch. Application of 0.1% Ch solution does not increase the longevity of resin–dentine bonds. Nonetheless, the procedure appears to be proficient in reducing dentine MMP activities within groups without adhesive treatments. Further studies are required to comprehend the cross-linking of Ch with dentine collagen.
Analysis of Scientific Research Driving Microalgae Market Opportunities in Europe
Authors: Rumin Judith , Nicolau Elodie , Gonçalves de Oliveira Junior Raimundo , Fuentes-Grünewald Claudio , Picot Laurent
Published: May 2020

A bibliographic database of scientific papers published by authors affiliated to research institutions worldwide, especially focused in Europe and in the European Atlantic Area, and containing the keywords “microalga(e)” or “phytoplankton” was built. A corpus of 79,020 publications was obtained and analyzed using the Orbit Intellixir software to characterize the research trends related to microalgae markets, markets opportunities and technologies that could have important impacts on markets evolution. Six major markets opportunities, the production of biofuels, bioplastics, biofertilizers, nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, and two fast-evolving technological domains driving markets evolution, microalgae harvesting and extraction technologies and production of genetically modified (GM-)microalgae, were highlighted. We here present an advanced analysis of these research domains to give an updated overview of scientific concepts driving microalgae markets.
Simple Flow-Based System with an In-Line Membrane Gas–Liquid Separation Unit and a Contactless Conductivity Detector for the Direct Determination of Sulfite in Clear and Turbid Food Samples
Authors: Ayuning Tyas Aulia , Sonsa-ard Thitaporn , Uraisin Kanchana , Nacapricha Duangjai , Saetear Phoonthawee
Published: May 2020

This study presents a simple flow-based system for the determination of the preservative agent sulfite in food and beverages. The standard method of conversion of sulfite ions into SO2 gas by acidification is employed to separate the sulfite from sample matrices. The sample is aspirated into a donor stream of sulfuric acid. A membrane gas–liquid separation unit, also called a ‘gas-diffusion (GD)’ unit, incorporating a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) hydrophobic membrane allows the generated gas to diffuse into a stream of deionized water in the acceptor line. The dissolution of the SO2 gas leads to a change in the conductivity of water which is monitored by an in-line capacitively coupled contactless conductivity detector (C4D). The conductivity change is proportional to the concentration of sulfite in the sample. In this work, both clear (wine) and turbid (fruit juice and extracts of dried fruit) were selected to demonstrate the versatility of the developed method. The method can tolerate turbidity up to 60 Nephelometric Turbidity Units (NTUs). The linear range is 5–25 mg L−1 SO32− with precision <2% RSD. The flow system employs a peristaltic pump for propelling all liquid lines. Quantitative results of sulfite were statistically comparable to those obtained from iodimetric titration for the wine samples.
High Entropy Alloys Manufactured by Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Torralba José M. , Campos Mónica
Published: May 2020

High entropy alloys have attracted much interest over the last 16 years due to their promising an unusual properties in different fields that offer many new possible application. Additionally, additive manufacturing has drawn attention due to its versatility and flexibility ahead of a new material challenge, being a suitable technology for the development of metallic materials. Moreover, high entropy alloys have demonstrated that many gaps exist in the literature on its physical metallurgy, and in this sense, additive manufacturing could be a feasible technology for solving many of these challenges. In this review paper the newest literature on this topic is condensed into three different aspects: the different additive manufacturing technologies employed to process high entropy alloys, the influence of the processing conditions and composition on the expected structure and microstructure and information about the mechanical and corrosion behavior of these alloys.
Fabrication of a Novel Ta(Zn)O Thin Film on Titanium by Magnetron Sputtering and Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation for Cell Biocompatibilities and Antibacterial Applications
Authors: Huang Heng-Li , Tsai Ming-Tzu , Chang Yin-Yu , Lin Yi-Jyun , Hsu Jui-Ting
Published: May 2020

Pure titanium (Ti) and titanium alloys are widely used as artificial implant materials for biomedical applications. The excellent biocompatibility of Ti has been attributed to the presence of a natural or artificial surface layer of titanium dioxide. Zinc oxide and tantalum oxide thin films are recognized due to their outstanding antibacterial properties. In this study, high power impulse magnetron sputtering (HiPIMS) was used for the deposition of tantalum oxide and zinc-doped Ta(Zn)O thin films on Ti with rough and porous surface, which was pretreated by plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO). Surface morphology, antibacterial property as well as cell biocompatibility were analyzed. The antibacterial effect was studied individually for the Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans (A. actinomycetemcomitans). The deposited Ta (Zn)O coating was composed of amorphous tantalum oxide and crystalline ZnO. The antibacterial results on the tantalum oxide and Ta(Zn)O coated Ti indicated a significant inhibition of both S. aureus and A. actinomycetemcomitans bacteria when compared with the uncoated Ti samples. The deposited Ta(Zn)O showed the best antibacterial performance. The Ta(Zn)O coated Ti showed lower level of the cell viability in MG-63 cells compared to other groups, indicating that Zn-doped Ta(Zn)O coatings may restrict the cell viability of hard tissue-derived MG-63 cells. However, the biocompatibility tests demonstrated that the tantalum oxide and Ta(Zn)O coatings improved cell attachment and cell growth in human skin fibroblasts. The cytotoxicity was found similar between the Ta2O5 and Ta(Zn)O coated Ti. By adopting a first PEO surface modification and a subsequent HiPIMS coating deposition, we synthetized amorphous tantalum oxide and Ta(Zn)O coatings that improved titanium surface properties and morphologies, making them a good surface treatment for titanium-based implants.
Metabolomics for Evaluating Flavor-Associated Metabolites in Plant-Based Products
Authors: Pavagadhi Shruti , Swarup Sanjay
Published: May 2020

Plant-based diets (PBDs) are associated with environmental benefits, human health promotion and animal welfare. There is a worldwide shift towards PBDs, evident from the increased global demand for fresh plant-based products (PBPs). Such shifts in dietary preferences accompanied by evolving food palates, create opportunities to leverage technological advancements and strict quality controls in developing PBPs that can drive consumer acceptance. Flavor, color and texture are important sensory attributes of a food product and, have the largest influence on consumer appeal and acceptance. Among these, flavor is considered the most dominating quality attribute that significantly affects overall eating experience. Current state-of-art technologies rely on physicochemical estimations and sensory-based tests to assess flavor-related attributes in fresh PBPs. However, these methodologies often do not provide any indication about the metabolic features associated with unique flavor profiles and, consequently, can be used in a limited way to define the quality attributes of PBPs. To this end, a systematic understanding of metabolites that contribute to the flavor profiles of PBPs is warranted to complement the existing methodologies. This review will discuss the use of metabolomics for evaluating flavor-associated metabolites in fresh PBPs at post-harvest stage, alongside its applications for quality assessment and grading. We will summarize the current research in this area, discuss technical challenges and considerations pertaining to sampling and analytical techniques, as well as s provide future perspectives and directions for government organizations, industries and other stakeholders associated with the quality assessment of fresh PBPs.
Metabolomics and Multi-Omics Integration: A Survey of Computational Methods and Resources
Authors: Eicher Tara , Kinnebrew Garrett , Patt Andrew , Spencer Kyle , Ying Kevin , Ma Qin , Machiraju Raghu , Mathé Ewy A.
Published: May 2020

As researchers are increasingly able to collect data on a large scale from multiple clinical and omics modalities, multi-omics integration is becoming a critical component of metabolomics research. This introduces a need for increased understanding by the metabolomics researcher of computational and statistical analysis methods relevant to multi-omics studies. In this review, we discuss common types of analyses performed in multi-omics studies and the computational and statistical methods that can be used for each type of analysis. We pinpoint the caveats and considerations for analysis methods, including required parameters, sample size and data distribution requirements, sources of a priori knowledge, and techniques for the evaluation of model accuracy. Finally, for the types of analyses discussed, we provide examples of the applications of corresponding methods to clinical and basic research. We intend that our review may be used as a guide for metabolomics researchers to choose effective techniques for multi-omics analyses relevant to their field of study.
Transparent Microelectrode Arrays Fabricated by Ion Beam Assisted Deposition for Neuronal Cell In Vitro Recordings
Authors: Ryynänen Tomi , Mzezewa Ropafadzo , Meriläinen Ella , Hyvärinen Tanja , Lekkala Jukka , Narkilahti Susanna , Kallio Pasi
Published: May 2020

Microelectrode array (MEA) is a tool used for recording bioelectric signals from electrically active cells in vitro. In this paper, ion beam assisted electron beam deposition (IBAD) has been used for depositing indium tin oxide (ITO) and titanium nitride (TiN) thin films which are applied as transparent track and electrode materials in MEAs. In the first version, both tracks and electrodes were made of ITO to guarantee full transparency and thus optimal imaging capability. In the second version, very thin (20 nm) ITO electrodes were coated with a thin (40 nm) TiN layer to decrease the impedance of Ø30 µm electrodes to one third (1200 kΩ → 320 kΩ) while maintaining (partial) transparency. The third version was also composed of transparent ITO tracks, but the measurement properties were optimized by using thick (200 nm) opaque TiN electrodes. In addition to the impedance, the optical transmission and electric noise levels of all three versions were characterized and the functionality of the MEAs was successfully demonstrated using human pluripotent stem cell-derived neuronal cells. To understand more thoroughly the factors contributing to the impedance, MEAs with higher IBAD ITO thickness as well as commercial sputter-deposited and highly conductive ITO were fabricated for comparison. Even if the sheet-resistance of our IBAD ITO thin films is very high compared to the sputtered one, the impedances of the MEAs of each ITO grade were found to be practically equal (e.g., 300–370 kΩ for Ø30 µm electrodes with 40 nm TiN coating). This implies that the increased resistance of the tracks, either caused by lower thickness or lower conductivity, has hardly any contribution to the impedance of the MEA electrodes. The impedance is almost completely defined by the double-layer interface between the electrode top layer and the medium including cells.
Dielectrophoretic Immobilization of Yeast Cells Using CMOS Integrated Microfluidics
Authors: Matbaechi Ettehad Honeyeh , Soltani Zarrin Pouya , Hölzel Ralph , Wenger Christian
Published: May 2020

This paper presents a dielectrophoretic system for the immobilization and separation of live and dead cells. Dielectrophoresis (DEP) is a promising and efficient investigation technique for the development of novel lab-on-a-chip devices, which characterizes cells or particles based on their intrinsic and physical properties. Using this method, specific cells can be isolated from their medium carrier or the mixture of cell suspensions (e.g., separation of viable cells from non-viable cells). Main advantages of this method, which makes it favorable for disease (blood) analysis and diagnostic applications are, the preservation of the cell properties during measurements, label-free cell identification, and low set up cost. In this study, we validated the capability of complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) integrated microfluidic devices for the manipulation and characterization of live and dead yeast cells using dielectrophoretic forces. This approach successfully trapped live yeast cells and purified them from dead cells. Numerical simulations based on a two-layer model for yeast cells flowing in the channel were used to predict the trajectories of the cells with respect to their dielectric properties, varying excitation voltage, and frequency.
150–200 V Split-Gate Trench Power MOSFETs with Multiple Epitaxial Layers
Authors: Chien Feng-Tso , Wang Zhi-Zhe , Lin Cheng-Li , Kang Tsung-Kuei , Chen Chii-Wen , Chiu Hsien-Chin
Published: May 2020

A rating voltage of 150 and 200 V split-gate trench (SGT) power metal-oxide- semiconductor field-effect transistor (Power MOSFET) with different epitaxial layers was proposed and studied. In order to reduce the specific on-resistance (Ron,sp) of a 150 and 200 V SGT power MOSFET, we used a multiple epitaxies (EPIs) structure to design it and compared other single-EPI and double-EPIs devices based on the same fabrication process. We found that the bottom epitaxial (EPI) layer of a double-EPIs structure can be designed to support the breakdown voltage, and the top one can be adjusted to reduce the Ron,sp. Therefore, the double-EPIs device has more flexibility to achieve a lower Ron,sp than the single-EPI one. When the required voltage is over 100 V, the on-state resistance (Ron) of double-EPIs device is no longer satisfying our expectations. A triple-EPIs structure was designed and studied, to reduce its Ron, without sacrificing the breakdown voltage. We used an Integrated System Engineering-Technology Computer-Aided Design (ISE-TCAD) simulator to investigate and study the 150 V SGT power MOSFETs with different EPI structures, by modulating the thickness and resistivity of each EPI layer. The simulated Ron,sp of a 150 V triple-EPIs device is only 62% and 18.3% of that for the double-EPIs and single-EPI structure, respectively.
Distribution of Elements in Iron-Manganese Formations in Bottom Sediments of Lake Onego (NW Russia) and Small Lakes (Shotozero and Surgubskoe) of Adjacent Territories
Authors: Strakhovenko Vera , Subetto Dmitry , Ovdina Ekaterina , Belkina Natalia , Efremenko Natalia
Published: May 2020

The morphology and mineralogical and geochemical compositions of the freshwater ferromanganese formations (FMF) of Lake Onego (NW Russia) and small lakes located in its catchment area were studied. The lake waters, bottom sediments and FMF were analyzed by a set of modern methods of geochemistry, mineralogy, and crystal chemistry (powder X-ray diffraction, IR spectroscopy, electron microscopy, ICP–MS analysis, atomic absorption, etc.). A detailed description of the microscopic structure in comparison with the geochemical characteristics of the FMF provides new information on the role of biota in the formation and behavior of individual elements at various stages in the nodule formation process. This study shows the homogeneous composition of microconcretions—only manganese or only ferruginous—in bottom sediments throughout the entire water area of Lake Onego and the rhythmic structures of the nodules, formed by macro- and microlayers with mineralized microbiota. The layers are composed of either crystalline Mn mineral phases (pyrolusite, rhodochrosite) or crystalline Fe mineral phases (siderite, goethite). The separation of Mn and Fe mineral phases in the nodules proceeded during their formation and diagenesis. The examined chemical and mineral compositions, textures, and structures of the nodules are a testament to the hydrogenic source of their ore substance and the formation of FMF is controlled primarily by redox environments at the water–sediment interface.
X-ray Fluorescence Analysis of Feldspars and Silicate Glass: Effects of Melting Time on Fused Bead Consistency and Volatilisation
Authors: Bell Anthony M. T. , Backhouse Daniel J. , Deng Wei , Eales James D. , Kilinc Erhan , Love Katrina , Rautiyal Prince , Rigby Jessica C. , Stone Alex H. , Vaishnav Shuchi , Wie-Addo Gloria , Bingham Paul A.
Published: May 2020

Reproducible preparation of lithium tetraborate fused beads for XRF analysis of glass and mineral samples is of paramount importance for analytical repeatability. However, as with all glass melting processes, losses due to volatilisation must be taken into account and their effects are not negligible. Here the effects of fused bead melting time have been studied for four Certified Reference Materials (CRM’s: three feldspars, one silicate glass), in terms of their effects on analytical variability and volatilisation losses arising from fused bead preparation. At melting temperatures of 1065 °C, and for feldspar samples, fused bead melting times shorter than approximately 25 min generally gave rise to a greater deviation of the XRF-analysed composition from the certified composition. This variation might be due to incomplete fusion and/or fused bead inhomogeneity but further research is needed. In contrast, the shortest fused bead melting time for the silicate glass CRM gave an XRF-analysed composition closer to the certified values than longer melting times. This may suggest a faster rate of glass-in-glass dissolution and homogenization during fused bead preparation. For all samples, longer melting times gave rise to greater volatilisation losses (including sulphates and halides) during fusion. This was demonstrated by a linear relationship between SO3 mass loss and time1/2, as predicted by a simple diffusion-based model. Iodine volatilisation displays a more complex relationship, suggestive of diffusion plus additional mechanisms. This conclusion may have implications for vitrification of iodine-bearing radioactive wastes. Our research demonstrates that the nature of the sample material impacts on the most appropriate fusion times. For feldspars no less than ~25 min and no more than ~60 min of fusion at 1065 °C, using Li2B4O7 as the fusion medium and in the context of feldspar samples and the automatic fusion equipment used here, strikes an acceptable (albeit non-ideal) balance between the competing factors of fused bead quality, analytical consistency and mitigating volatilisation losses. Conversely, for the silicate glass sample, shorter fusion times of less than ~30 min under the same conditions provided more accurate analyses whilst limiting volatile losses.
Effect of Mineral Processes and Deformation on the Petrophysical Properties of Soft Rocks during Active Faulting
Authors: Torabi Anita , Jiménez-Millán Juan , Jiménez-Espinosa Rosario , García-Tortosa Francisco Juan , Abad Isabel , Ellingsen Tor S. S.
Published: May 2020

We have studied damage zones of two active faults, Baza and Padul faults in Guadix-Baza and Granada basins, respectively, in South Spain. Mineral and microstructural characterization by X-ray diffraction and field emission electron microscopy studies have been combined with structural fieldwork and in situ measurements of rock properties (permeability and Young’s modulus) to find out the relation between deformation behavior, mineral processes, and changes in the soft rock and sediment properties produced by fluid flow during seismic cycles. Our results show that microsealing produced by precipitation of dolomite and aragonite along fractures in the damage zone of Baza Fault reduces the permeability and increases the Young’s modulus. In addition, deformation bands formed in sediments richer in detrital silicates involved cataclasis as deformation mechanism, which hamper permeability of the sediments. In the Granada Basin, the calcarenitic rocks rich in calcite and clays in the damage zone of faults associated to the Padul Fault are characterized by the presence of stylolites without any carbonate cement. On the other hand, marly lithofacies affected by faults are characterized by the presence of disaggregation bands that involve cracking and granular flow, as well as clay smear. The presence of stylolites and deformation bands in these rocks reduces permeability.
Carrier Flotation of Low-Rank Coal with Polystyrene
Authors: Huang Gen , Xu Jiaqi , Geng Pengyue , Li Jihui
Published: May 2020

The problem of low-rank coal flotation continues to be a challenge due to the poor hydrophobicity and abundant oxygenated functional groups on particle surfaces. In this study, carrier flotation was used to improve the flotation performance of low-rank coal with polystyrene as a carrier material. Kerosene was used as a collector and played a role in the adhesion of fine low-rank coal to polystyrene due to its hydrophobic properties. The carrier feature of polystyrene was demonstrated by Turbiscan Lab Expert stability analysis and scanning electron microscopy analysis. The flotation experiments revealed that the optimum conditions were: collector dosage 5000 g/t, pulp concentration 40 g/L, and the ratio of low-rank coal to polystyrene 100:10. Under these conditions, the combustible recovery by carrier flotation was obtained as 70.59% when the ash content was 12.32%, which increased by 25.68 points compared with the combustible recovery of conventional flotation under almost the same ash content. The fine coal particles coated the coarse polystyrene particles through hydrophobic interactions between the polystyrene and hydrocarbon chains of the kerosene adsorbed on coal particles. The results suggested that the flotation performance of low-rank coal was significantly improved by carrier flotation with polystyrene, especially for fine particles.