bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serum Tau Proteins as Potential Biomarkers for the Assessment of Alzheimer’s Disease Progression
Authors: Nam Eunjoo , Lee Yeong-Bae , Moon Cheil , Chang Keun-A
Published: July 2020

Total tau (t-tau) and phosphorylated tau (p-tau) protein elevations in cerebrospinal fluid (CFS) are well-established hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), while the associations of serum t-tau and p-tau levels with AD have been inconsistent across studies. To identify more accessible non-invasive AD biomarkers, we measured serum tau proteins and associations with cognitive function in age-matched controls (AMC, n = 26), mild cognitive impairment group (MCI, n = 30), and mild-AD group (n = 20) according to the Mini-mental State Examination (MMSE), Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR), and Global Deterioration Scale (GDS) scores. Serum t-tau, but not p-tau, was significantly higher in the mild-AD group than AMC subjects (p < 0.05), and there were significant correlations of serum t-tau with MMSE and GDS scores. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis distinguished mild-AD from AMC subjects with moderate sensitivity and specificity (AUC = 0.675). We speculated that tau proteins in neuronal cell-derived exosomes (NEX) isolated from serum would be more strongly associated with brain tau levels and disease characteristics, as these exosomes can penetrate the blood-brain barrier. Indeed, ELISA and Western blotting indicated that both NEX t-tau and p-tau (S202) were significantly higher in the mild-AD group compared to AMC (p < 0.05) and MCI groups (p < 0.01). In contrast, serum amyloid β (Aβ1–42) was lower in the mild-AD group compared to MCI groups (p < 0.001). During the 4-year follow-up, NEX t-tau and p-tau (S202) levels were correlated with the changes in GDS and MMSE scores. In JNPL3 transgenic (Tg) mice expressing a human tau mutation, t-tau and p-tau expression levels in NEX increased with neuropathological progression, and NEX tau was correlated with tau in brain tissue exosomes (tEX), suggesting that tau proteins reach the circulation via exosomes. Taken together, our data suggest that serum tau proteins, especially NEX tau proteins, are useful biomarkers for monitoring AD progression.
Potential Hepatotoxins Found in Herbal Medicinal Products: A Systematic Review
Authors: Quan Nguyen Van , Dang Xuan Tran , Teschke Rolf
Published: July 2020

The risk of liver injury associated with the use of herbal medicinal products (HMPs) is well known among physicians caring for patients under a HMP therapy, as documented in case reports or case series and evidenced by using the Roussel Uclaf Causality Assessment Method (RUCAM) to verify a causal relationship. In many cases, however, the quality of HMPs has rarely been considered regarding potential culprits such as contaminants and toxins possibly incriminated as causes for the liver injury. This review aims to comprehensively assemble details of tentative hepatotoxic contaminants and toxins found in HMPs. Based on the origin, harmful agents may be divided according two main sources, namely the phyto-hepatotoxin and the nonphyto-hepatotoxin groups. More specifically, phyto-hepatotoxins are phytochemicals or their metabolites naturally produced by plants or internally in response to plant stress conditions. In contrast, nonphyto-hepatotoxic elements may include contaminants or adulterants occurring during collection, processing and production, are the result of accumulation of toxic heavy metals by the plant itself due to soil pollutions, or represent mycotoxins, herbicidal and pesticidal residues. The phyto-hepatotoxins detected in HMPs are classified into eight major groups consisting of volatile compounds, phytotoxic proteins, glycosides, terpenoid lactones, terpenoids, alkaloids, anthraquinones, and phenolic acids. Nonphyto-hepatotoxins including metals, mycotoxins, and pesticidal and herbicidal residues and tentative mechanisms of toxicity are discussed. In conclusion, although a variety of potential toxic substances may enter the human body through HMP use, the ability of these toxins to trigger human liver injury remains largely unclear.
The Transcription Factor SCX is a Potential Serum Biomarker of Fibrotic Diseases
Authors: Ramírez-Aragón Miguel , Hernández-Sánchez Fernando , Rodríguez-Reyna Tatiana S. , Buendía-Roldán Ivette , Güitrón-Castillo Gael , Núñez-Alvarez Carlos A. , Hernández-Ramírez Diego F. , Benavides-Suárez Sergio A. , Esquinca-González Alexia , Torres-Machorro Ana Lilia , Mendoza-Milla Criselda
Published: July 2020

Fibrosing diseases are causes of morbidity and mortality around the world, and they are characterized by excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation. The bHLH transcription factor scleraxis (SCX) regulates the synthesis of ECM proteins in heart fibrosis. SCX expression was evaluated in lung fibroblasts and tissue derived from fibrotic disease patients and healthy controls. We also measured SCX in sera from 57 healthy controls, and 56 Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF), 40 Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis (HP), and 100 Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) patients. We report high SCX expression in fibroblasts and tissue from IPF patients versus controls. High SCX-serum levels were observed in IPF (0.663 ± 0.559 ng/mL, p < 0.01) and SSc (0.611 ± 0.296 ng/mL, p < 0.001), versus controls (0.351 ± 0.207 ng/mL) and HP (0.323 ± 0.323 ng/mL). Serum levels of the SCX heterodimerization partner, TCF3, did not associate with fibrotic illness. IPF patients with severely affected respiratory capacities and late-stage SSc patients presenting anti-topoisomerase I antibodies and interstitial lung disease showed the highest SCX-serum levels. SCX gain-of-function induced the expression of alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA/ACTA2) in fibroblasts when co-overexpressed with TCF3. As late and severe stages of the fibrotic processes correlated with high circulating SCX, we postulate it as a candidate biomarker of fibrosis and a potential therapeutic target.
Exploring Drug Treatment Patterns Based on the Action of Drug and Multilayer Network Model
Authors: Yu Liang , Shi Yayong , Zou Quan , Wang Shuhang , Zheng Liping , Gao Lin
Published: July 2020

Some drugs can be used to treat multiple diseases, suggesting potential patterns in drug treatment. Determination of drug treatment patterns can improve our understanding of the mechanisms of drug action, enabling drug repurposing. A drug can be associated with a multilayer tissue-specific protein–protein interaction (TSPPI) network for the diseases it is used to treat. Proteins usually interact with other proteins to achieve functions that cause diseases. Hence, studying drug treatment patterns is similar to studying common module structures in multilayer TSPPI networks. Therefore, we propose a network-based model to study the treatment patterns of drugs. The method was designated SDTP (studying drug treatment pattern) and was based on drug effects and a multilayer network model. To demonstrate the application of the SDTP method, we focused on analysis of trichostatin A (TSA) in leukemia, breast cancer, and prostate cancer. We constructed a TSPPI multilayer network and obtained candidate drug-target modules from the network. Gene ontology analysis provided insights into the significance of the drug-target modules and co-expression networks. Finally, two modules were obtained as potential treatment patterns for TSA. Through analysis of the significance, composition, and functions of the selected drug-target modules, we validated the feasibility and rationality of our proposed SDTP method for identifying drug treatment patterns. In summary, our novel approach used a multilayer network model to overcome the shortcomings of single-layer networks and combined the network with information on drug activity. Based on the discovered drug treatment patterns, we can predict the potential diseases that the drug can treat. That is, if a disease-related protein module has a similar structure, then the drug is likely to be a potential drug for the treatment of the disease.
New Opportunity to Formulate Intranasal Vaccines and Drug Delivery Systems Based on Chitosan
Authors: Popescu Roxana , Ghica Mihaela Violeta , Dinu-Pîrvu Cristina-Elena , Anuța Valentina , Lupuliasa Dumitru , Popa Lăcrămioara
Published: July 2020

In an attempt to develop drug delivery systems that bypass the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and prevent liver and intestinal degradation, it was concluded that nasal medication meets these criteria and can be used for drugs that have these drawbacks. The aim of this review is to present the influence of the properties of chitosan and its derivatives (mucoadhesion, permeability enhancement, surface tension, and zeta potential) on the development of suitable nasal drug delivery systems and on the nasal bioavailability of various active pharmaceutical ingredients. Interactions between chitosan and proteins, lipids, antigens, and other molecules lead to complexes that have their own applications or to changing characteristics of the substances involved in the bond (conformational changes, increased stability or solubility, etc.). Chitosan and its derivatives have their own actions (antibacterial, antifungal, immunostimulant, antioxidant, etc.) and can be used as such or in combination with other molecules from the same class to achieve a synergistic effect. The applicability of the properties is set out in the second part of the paper, where nasal formulations based on chitosan are described (vaccines, hydrogels, nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC), powders, emulsions, etc.).
Characterization of the UDP-glycosyltransferase UGT72 Family in Poplar and Identification of Genes Involved in the Glycosylation of Monolignols
Authors: Speeckaert Nathanael , Adamou Nassirou Mahamadou , Hassane Hadjara Amadou , Baldacci-Cresp Fabien , Mol Adeline , Goeminne Geert , Boerjan Wout , Duez Pierre , Hawkins Simon , Neutelings Godfrey , Hoffmann Thomas , Schwab Wilfried , El Jaziri Mondher , Behr Marc , Baucher Marie
Published: July 2020

Monolignols are the building blocks for lignin polymerization in the apoplastic domain. Monolignol biosynthesis, transport, storage, glycosylation, and deglycosylation are the main biological processes partaking in their homeostasis. In Arabidopsis thaliana, members of the uridine diphosphate-dependent glucosyltransferases UGT72E and UGT72B subfamilies have been demonstrated to glycosylate monolignols. Here, the poplar UGT72 family, which is clustered into four groups, was characterized: Group 1 UGT72AZ1 and UGT72AZ2, homologs of Arabidopsis UGT72E1-3, as well as group 4 UGT72B37 and UGT72B39, homologs of Arabidopsis UGT72B1-3, glycosylate monolignols. In addition, promoter-GUS analyses indicated that poplar UGT72 members are expressed within vascular tissues. At the subcellular level, poplar UGT72s belonging to group 1 and group 4 were found to be associated with the nucleus and the endoplasmic reticulum. However, UGT72A2, belonging to group 2, was localized in bodies associated with chloroplasts, as well as possibly in chloroplasts. These results show a partial conservation of substrate recognition between Arabidopsis and poplar homologs, as well as divergent functions between different groups of the UGT72 family, for which the substrates remain unknown.
Differential Effects of MS Therapeutics on B Cells—Implications for Their Use and Failure in AQP4-Positive NMOSD Patients
Authors: Traub Jan , Häusser-Kinzel Silke , Weber Martin
Published: July 2020

B cells are considered major contributors to multiple sclerosis (MS) pathophysiology. While lately approved disease-modifying drugs like ocrelizumab deplete B cells directly, most MS medications were not primarily designed to target B cells. Here, we review the current understanding how approved MS medications affect peripheral B lymphocytes in humans. These highly contrasting effects are of substantial importance when considering these drugs as therapy for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD), a frequent differential diagnosis to MS, which is considered being a primarily B cell- and antibody-driven diseases. Data indicates that MS medications, which deplete B cells or induce an anti-inflammatory phenotype of the remaining ones, were effective and safe in aquaporin-4 antibody positive NMOSD. In contrast, drugs such as natalizumab and interferon-β, which lead to activation and accumulation of B cells in the peripheral blood, lack efficacy or even induce catastrophic disease activity in NMOSD. Hence, we conclude that the differential effect of MS drugs on B cells is one potential parameter determining the therapeutic efficacy or failure in antibody-dependent diseases like seropositive NMOSD.
NMR Spectroscopic Studies of Cation Dynamics in Symmetrically-Substituted Imidazolium-Based Ionic Liquid Crystals
Authors: Majhi Debashis , Komolkin Andrei V. , Dvinskikh Sergey V.
Published: July 2020

Ionic liquid crystals (ILCs) present a new class of non-molecular soft materials with a unique combination of high ionic conductivity and anisotropy of physicochemical properties. Symmetrically-substituted long-chain imidazolium-based mesogenic ionic liquids exhibiting a smectic liquid crystalline phase were investigated by solid state NMR spectroscopy and computational methods. The aim of the study was to reveal the correlation between cation size and structure, local dynamics, and orientational order in the layered mesophase. The obtained experimental data are consistent with the model of a rod-shaped cation with the two chains aligned in opposite directions outward from the imidazolium core. The alignment of the core plane to the phase director and the restricted conformations of the chain segments were determined and compared to those in single-chain counterparts. The orientational order parameter S~0.5–0.6 of double-chain ionic liquid crystals is higher than that of corresponding single-chain analogues. This is compatible with the enhanced contribution of van der Waals forces to the stabilization of smectic layers. Increased orientational order for the material with Br− counterions, which exhibit a smaller ionic radius and higher ability to form hydrogen bonds as compared to that of BF4−, also indicated a non-negligible influence of electrostatic and hydrogen bonding interactions. The enhanced rod-shape character and higher orientational order of symmetrically-substituted ILCs can offer additional opportunities in the design of self-assembling non-molecular materials.
The Role of Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 Infection in Demyelination of the Central Nervous System
Authors: Bello-Morales Raquel , Andreu Sabina , López-Guerrero José Antonio
Published: July 2020

Herpes simplex type 1 (HSV-1) is a neurotropic virus that infects the peripheral and central nervous systems. After primary infection in epithelial cells, HSV-1 spreads retrogradely to the peripheral nervous system (PNS), where it establishes a latent infection in the trigeminal ganglia (TG). The virus can reactivate from the latent state, traveling anterogradely along the axon and replicating in the local surrounding tissue. Occasionally, HSV-1 may spread trans-synaptically from the TG to the brainstem, from where it may disseminate to higher areas of the central nervous system (CNS). It is not completely understood how HSV-1 reaches the CNS, although the most accepted idea is retrograde transport through the trigeminal or olfactory tracts. Once in the CNS, HSV-1 may induce demyelination, either as a direct trigger or as a risk factor, modulating processes such as remyelination, regulation of endogenous retroviruses, or molecular mimicry. In this review, we describe the current knowledge about the involvement of HSV-1 in demyelination, describing the pathways used by this herpesvirus to spread throughout the CNS and discussing the data that suggest its implication in demyelinating processes.
Transcriptome Analysis Provides Insights into Grain Filling in Foxtail Millet (Setaria italica L.)
Authors: Wang Tao , Song Hui , Li Pengtao , Wei Yangyang , Hu Nan , Chen Zhenwen , Wang Weiqi , Liu Jinrong , Zhang Baohong , Peng Renhai
Published: July 2020

Grain filling is an importantly developmental process which is associated with the yield and quality of foxtail millet (Setaria italic L.). However, the molecular mechanisms of grain filling are rarely reported in foxtail millet. In our study, RNA-seq was performed to investigate the transcriptional dynamics and identify the key genes involved in grain filling in foxtail millet at five different developmental stages. A total of 11,399 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), including 902 transcription factors (TFs), were identified. Certain important genes involved in grain filling were discovered through a function annotation and temporal expression patterns analysis. These genes included genes associated with starch biosynthesis, cell-wall invertases, hormone signal transduction, and polyamine metabolism pathways. The expression levels of seven randomly selected DEGs were validated by a quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). This study provides the first insight into the changes in the gene expression of grain filling at different developmental stages in foxtail millet. These results could help understand the complex molecular mechanisms of the panicle formation in foxtail millet and other cereal crops.
Nutri-Epigenetics and Gut Microbiota: How Birth Care, Bonding and Breastfeeding Can Influence and Be Influenced?
Authors: Gabbianelli Rosita , Bordoni Laura , Morano Sandra , Calleja-Agius Jean , Lalor Joan G.
Published: July 2020

Maternal lifestyle is an important factor in the programming of an infant’s epigenome, in particular when considered alongside the mode of birth and choice of feeding method (i.e., breastfeeding or formula feeding). Beginning in utero, and during the first two years of an infant’s life, cells acquire an epigenetic memory of the neonatal exposome which can be influential across the entire lifespan. Parental lifestyle (e.g., malnutrition, alcohol intake, smoke, stress, exposure to xenobiotics and/or drugs) can modify both the maternal and paternal epigenome, leading to epigenetic inheritance in their offspring. This review aims to outline the origin of early life modulation of the epigenome, and to share this fundamental concept with all the health care professionals involved in the development and provision of care during childbirth in order to inform future parents and clinicians of the importance of the this process and the key role it plays in the programming of a child’s health.
Industry 4.0 Readiness Models: A Systematic Literature Review of Model Dimensions
Authors: Hizam-Hanafiah Mohd , Soomro Mansoor , Abdullah Nor
Published: July 2020

It is critical for organizations to self-assess their Industry 4.0 readiness to survive and thrive in the age of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Thereon, conceptualization or development of an Industry 4.0 readiness model with the fundamental model dimensions is needed. This paper used a systematic literature review (SLR) methodology with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and content analysis strategy to review 97 papers in peer-reviewed academic journals and industry reports published from 2000 to 2019. The review identifies 30 Industry 4.0 readiness models with 158 unique model dimensions. Based on this review, there are two theoretical contributions. First, this paper proposes six dimensions (Technology, People, Strategy, Leadership, Process and Innovation) that can be considered as the most important dimensions for organizations. Second, this review reveals that 70 (44%) out of total 158 total unique dimensions on Industry 4.0 pertain to the assessment of technology alone. This establishes that organizations need to largely improve on their technology readiness, to strengthen their Industry 4.0 readiness. In summary, these six most common dimensions, and in particular, the dominance of the technology dimension provides a research agenda for future research on Industry 4.0 readiness.
High Voltage Electric Fields Have Potential to Create New Physical Pest Control Systems
Authors: Kusakari Shin-ichi , Okada Kiyotsugu , Shibao Manabu , Toyoda Hideyoshi
Published: July 2020

An electric field is the space surrounding an electric charge, within which it is capable of exerting a perceptible force on another electric charge. Especially under high voltage, electric fields induce various electrostatic phenomena, some of which could be utilized to provide remarkable pest control measures. The main focus of the present study was to introduce an attractive force generated by a surface charge on an insulated electrified conductor, which was successfully used to construct an electric field screen that prevented airborne nuisances (spores, flying insects, pollen, and fine smoke) from entering the interiors of various facilities. Another focus was the disinclination of insects to enter the electric field, thus, giving the electric field screen the ability to repel insects. Charges accumulated on the surfaces of non-insulated conductors are mobile through discharge, based on their potential difference. Such arc discharge was strong enough to destroy insects that were exposed to it. Some precedent illustrative examples are cited to explain the principles of attraction, dielectrophoretic movement of spores, and discharge-mediated positive electrification of insects, and to discuss how electric fields are generated and used in electric field-based pest control strategies.
Adaptive Feeding Roller with An Integrated Cutting System for Automated Fiber Placement (AFP)
Authors: Bahar Mohammad , Sinapius Michael
Published: July 2020

Automated Fiber Placement (AFP) has been used for more than 30 years as a manufacturing process for large components such as aircraft fuselage or nose made of composite materials. As the literature research showed, 85% of efficient AFP head process time is used for the cutting process, accelerating, decelerating and necessary directional changes of the AFP head. The AFP head consists of various modules that synchronize the complete process. In recent years, scientists tried to extend the advantages of this technique and optimize the process. The aim of this article is to show the integration of the cutting unit and the feeding unit in a compact and simple system. Therefore the cutting edge of the tape and the productivity can be increased significantly. The feeding system pulls the tape from the material spool to under the compaction roller. Obviously, the tape should also cut to a predefined length. According to the state of the art, the cutting unit works when the feeding unit is in the standing position. The layup process has therefore a short break, which is no longer required with the new approach. The cutting process is realized without interruption, therefore the lost time during cutting can be saved. The integrated unit is synchronized with the AFP process to apply the active or passive feeding process.
The Basics of Time-Domain-Based Milling Stability Prediction Using Frequency Response Function
Authors: Dombovari Zoltan , Sanz-Calle Markel , Zatarain Mikel
Published: July 2020

This study presents the fundamentals of the usage of frequency response functions (FRF) directly in time-domain-based methods. The methodology intends to combine the advantages of frequency- and time-domain-based techniques to determine the stability of stationary solutions of a given milling process. This is achieved by applying the so-called impulse dynamic subspace (IDS) method, with which the impulse response function (IRF) can be disassembled to separated singular IRFs that form the basis of the used transformation. Knowing the IDS state, the linear stability boundaries can be constructed and a measure of stability can be determined using the Floquet multipliers via the semidiscretization method (SDM). This step has a huge importance in parameter optimization where the multipliers can be used as objective functions, which is hardly achievable using frequency-domain-based methods. Here we present the basic idea of utilizing the IDS method and analyze its convergence properties.
Upgrading Sustainable Polyurethane Foam Based on Greener Polyols: Succinic-Based Polyol and Mannich-Based Polyol
Authors: de Luca Bossa Ferdinando , Verdolotti Letizia , Russo Vincenzo , Campaner Pietro , Minigher Andrea , Lama Giuseppe Cesare , Boggioni Laura , Tesser Riccardo , Lavorgna Marino
Published: July 2020

It is well known that the traditional synthetic polymers, such as Polyurethane foams, require raw materials that are not fully sustainable and are based on oil-feedstocks. For this reason, renewable resources such as biomass, polysaccharides and proteins are still recognized as one of the most promising approaches for substituting oil-based raw materials (mainly polyols). However, polyurethanes from renewable sources exhibit poor physical and functional performances. For this reason, the best technological solution is the production of polyurethane materials obtained through a partial replacement of the oil-based polyurethane precursors. This approach enables a good balance between the need to improve the sustainability of the polymer and the need to achieve suitable performances, to fulfill the technological requirements for specific applications. In this paper, a succinic-based polyol sample (obtained from biomass source) was synthesized, characterized and blended with cardanol-based polyol (Mannich-based polyol) to produce sustainable rigid polyurethane foams in which the oil-based polyol is totally replaced. A suitable amount of catalysts and surfactant, water as blowing reagent and poly-methylene diphenyl di-isocyanate as isocyanate source were used for the polyurethane synthesis. The resulting foams were characterized by means of infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) to control the cross-linking reactions, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to evaluate the morphological structure and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) and thermal conductivity to evaluate thermal degradation behavior and thermal insulation properties.
Better Surface Integrity and Tribological Properties of Steel Sintered by Powder Metallurgy
Authors: Lim Tae-Hwan , Lee Chang-Soon , Cho In-Sik , Amanov Auezhan
Published: July 2020

The current research reports the improvement in surface integrity and tribological characteristics of steel prepared using a powder metallurgy (PM) by ultrasonic nanocrystal surface modification (UNSM) at 25 and 300 °C. The surface integrity and tribological properties of three samples, namely, as-PM, UNSM-25 and UNSM-300 were investigated. The average surface roughness (Ra) of the as-PM, UNSM-25 and UNSM-300 samples was measured using a non-contact 3D scanner, where it was found to be 3.21, 1.14 and 0.74 µm, respectively. The top surface hardness was also measured in order to investigate the influence of UNSM treatment temperature on the hardness. The results revealed that the as-PM sample with a hardness of 109 HV was increased up to 165 and 237 HV, corresponding to a 32.1% and 57.2% after both the UNSM treatment at 25 and 300 °C, respectively. XRD analysis was also performed to confirm if any changes in chemistry and crystal size were took place after the UNSM treatment at 25 and 300 °C. In addition, dry tribological properties of the samples were investigated. The friction coefficient of the as-PM sample was 0.284, which was reduced up to 0.225 and 0.068 after UNSM treatment at 25 and 300 °C, respectively. The wear resistance was also enhanced by 33.2 and 52.9% after UNSM treatment at both 25 and 300 °C. Improvements in surface roughness, hardness and tribological properties was attributed to the elimination of big and deep porosities after UNSM treatment. Wear track of the samples and wear scar of the counter surface balls were investigated by SEM to reach a comprehensive discussion on wear mechanisms. Overall, it was confirmed that UNSM treatment at 25 and 300 °C had a beneficial effect on the surface integrity and tribological characteristics of sintered steel by the PM that is used in a shock absorber for a car engine.
Comparative In Vitro Study of the Bond Strength of Composite to Carbon Fiber Versus Ceramic to Cobalt–Chromium Alloys Frameworks for Fixed Dental Prostheses
Authors: Cascos-Sanchez Rocio , Molinero-Mourelle Pedro , Ortega Rocio , Agustin-Panadero Ruben , Del Rio Highsmith Jaime , Gomez-Polo Miguel
Published: July 2020

Purpose: The aim of this comparative in vitro study was to assess the bond strength and mechanical failure of carbon-fiber-reinforced composites against cobalt–chrome structures with ceramic veneering. Materials and methods: A total of 24 specimens (12 per group) simulating dental prosthetic frameworks were fabricated. The experimental specimens were subjected to a thermocycling aging process and to evaluate bond strength. All specimens were subjected to a three-point bending test to fracture using a universal testing machine. Results: The cobalt–chrome/ceramic group yielded a bond strength value of 21.71 ± 2.16 MPa, while the carbon-fiber-reinforced composite group showed 14.50 ± 3.50 MPa. The failure assessment reported statistical significance between groups. Although carbon-fiber-reinforced composite group showed lower bond strength values, the chipping incidence in this group was as well lower. Conclusions: The chrome–cobalt/ceramic group showed greater bonding strength compared to the carbon-fiber-reinforced composite; most of the fractures within the cobalt–chrome/ceramic group, had no possibility of direct clinical repair.
Effect of Eccentricity of Applied Force and Geometrical Imperfections on Stiffness of Stack of Cuboidal Steel Elements
Authors: Smolana Mateusz , Gromysz Krzysztof
Published: July 2020

Experimental tests were performed on a stack of cuboidal steel elements and its mathematical model was developed. Each cuboidal element was made of rolled profiles. Such stacks are the part of temporary supports that can be used to eliminate deflections of buildings. Stacks were loaded eccentrically through the inaccurate position of a jack. Moreover, two types of geometrical imperfections could be noticed. They included inaccurate contact between the stack elements and initial relative displacements of profiles that formed cuboidal elements. A mathematical model was developed to describe deformations of the stack and its parameters were determined by analysing test results. The eccentricity of the applied force had a slight impact on the stack stiffness, which was considerably reduced by geometrical imperfections. The imperfection covering initial relative displacements of rolled profiles inside cuboidal elements had the greatest impact on the stiffness. It could cause even a 10-fold drop in the stack stiffness when compared with the theoretical stiffness resulting from the stiffness of the stack section, and the stiffness dropped by ca. 3.5 times when the imperfection included the inaccurate contact between the cuboidal elements. Finally, the occurrence of both types of geometrical imperfections generated the real stiffness more than ten times lower than the theoretical stiffness that did not take into account imperfections.
Modeling and Experimental Analysis of Shear-Slitting of AA6111-T4 Aluminum Alloy Sheet
Authors: Bohdal Łukasz , Kukiełka Leon , Legutko Stanisław , Patyk Radosław , Radchenko Andrii M.
Published: July 2020

This work presents experimental studies with numerical modeling, aiming at the development of guidelines for shaping aluminum alloy AA6111-T4, t = 1.5 mm thick, with the use of a shear-slitting operation. During the experimental tests, parametric analyses were conducted for the selected material thickness. For the purposes of the material deformation’s analysis, a vision system based on the digital image correlation (DiC) method was used. Numerical models were developed with the use of finite element analysis (FEA) and the mesh-free method: smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH), which were used to analyze the residual stress and strain in the cutting zone at different process conditions. The results indicate a significant effect of the horizontal clearance between knives on the width of the deformation zone on sheet cut edge. Together with the clearance value increase, the deformation zone increases. The highest burrs on the cut edge were obtained, when the slitting speed was set to v = 17 m/min, and clearance to hc = 6%t. A strong influence was observed of the horizontal clearance value at high slitting speeds on burr unshapeliness. The most favorable conditions were obtained for v = 32 m/min, hc = 0.062 mm, and rake angle of upper knife for α = 30°. For this configuration, a smooth sheared edge with minimal burr height was obtained.
A New Test Method for Evaluation of Solidification Cracking Susceptibility of Stainless Steel during Laser Welding
Authors: Wang Wenbin , Xiong Li , Wang Dan , Ma Qin , Hu Yan , Hu Guanzhi , Lei Yucheng
Published: July 2020

A new test method named “Trapezoidal hot” cracking test was developed to evaluate solidification cracking susceptibility of stainless steel during laser welding. The new test method was used to obtain the solidification cracking directly, and the solidification cracking susceptibility could be evaluated by the solidification cracking rate, defined as the ratio of the solidification cracking length to the weld bead length under certain conditions. The results show that with the increase in the solidification cracking rate, the solidification cracking susceptibility of SUS310 stainless steel was much higher than that of SUS316 and SUS304 stainless steels during laser welding (at a welding speed of 1.0 m/min) because a fully austenite structure appeared in the weld joint of the former steel, while the others were ferrite and austenitic mixed structures during solidification. Besides, with an increase in welding speed from 1.0 to 2.0 m/min during laser welding, the solidification cracking susceptibility of SUS310 stainless steel decreased slightly; however, there was a tendency towards an increase in the solidification cracking susceptibility of SUS304 stainless steel due to the decrease in the amount of ferrite under a higher cooling rate.
LDH-Co-Fe-Acetate: A New Efficient Sorbent for Azoic Dye Removal and Elaboration by Hydrolysis in Polyol, Characterization, Adsorption, and Anionic Exchange of Direct Red 2 as a Model Anionic Dye
Authors: Drici-Setti Nawal , Lelli Paolo , Jouini Noureddine
Published: July 2020

A new, double hydroxide based on Co and Fe was elaborated on by forced hydrolysis in a polyol medium. Complementary characterization techniques show that this new phase belongs to the layered double hydroxide family (LDH) with Co2+ and Fe3+ ions located in the octahedral sites of the bucite-like structure. The acetate anions occupy interlayer space with an interlamellar distance of 12.70 Å. This large distance likely facilitates the exchange reaction. Acetates were exchanged by carbonates. The as-obtained compound Co-Fe-Ac/Ex shows an interlamellar distance of 7.67 Å. The adsorption of direct red 2 by Co-Fe-Ac-LDH has been examined in order to measure the capability of this new LDH to eliminate highly toxic azoic anionic dyes from waste water and was compared with that of Co-Fe-Ac/Ex and Co-Fe-CO3/A (synthesized in an aqueous medium). The adsorption capacity was found to depend on contact time, pH, initial dye concentration, and heating temperature. Concerning CoFeAc-LDH, the dye uptake reaches a high level (588 mg/g) due to the occurrence of both adsorption processes: physisorption on the external surface and chemical sorption due to the intercalation of dye by exchange with an acetate anion. The study enables us to quantify the uptake amount of each effect in which the intercalation has the most important amount (418 mg/g).
Integrating Molecular Networking and 1H NMR Spectroscopy for Isolation of Bioactive Metabolites from the Persian Gulf Sponge Axinella sinoxea
Authors: Mohsenian Kouchaksaraee Reza , Moridi Farimani Mahdi , Li Fengjie , Nazemi Melika , Tasdemir Deniz
Published: July 2020

The geographic position, highly fluctuating sea temperatures and hypersalinity make Persian Gulf an extreme environment. Although this unique environment has high biodiversity dominated by invertebrates, its potential in marine biodiscovery has largely remained untapped. Herein, we aimed at a detailed analysis of the metabolome and bioactivity profiles of the marine sponge Axinella sinoxea collected from the northeast coast of the Persian Gulf in Iran. The crude extract and its Kupchan subextracts were tested in multiple in-house bioassays, and the crude extract and its CHCl3-soluble portion showed in vitro antibacterial activity against Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Enterococcus faecium (Efm). A molecular networking (MN)-based dereplication strategy by UPLC-MS/MS revealed the presence of phospholipids and steroids, while 1H NMR spectroscopy indicated the presence of additional metabolites, such as diketopiperazines (DKPs). Integrated MN and 1H NMR analyses on both the crude and CHCl3 extracts combined with an antibacterial activity-guided isolation approach afforded eight metabolites: a new diketopiperazine, (-)-cyclo(L-trans-Hyp-L-Ile) (8); a known diketopiperazine, cyclo(L-trans-Hyp-L-Phe) (7); two known phospholipids, 1-O-hexadecyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (1) and 1-O-octadecanoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (2); two known steroids, 3β-hydroxycholest-5-ene-7,24-dione (3) and (22E)-3β-hydroxycholesta-5,22-diene-7,24-dione (4); two known monoterpenes, loliolide (5) and 5-epi-loliolide (6). The chemical structures of the isolates were elucidated by a combination of NMR spectroscopy, HRMS and [α]D analyses. All compounds were tested against MRSA and Efm, and compound 3 showed moderate antibacterial activity against MRSA (IC50 value 70 μg/mL). This is the first study that has dealt with chemical and bioactivity profiling of A. sinoxea leading to isolation and characterization of pure sponge metabolites.
Effect of Annealing Prior to Cold Rolling on the Microstructure Evolution and Energy Losses of Low-Si, Ultra-Low-C Hot-Rolled Electrical Steel
Authors: Ortiz Rangel Héctor , Salinas Rodríguez Armando , García Rincón Omar
Published: July 2020

The microstructure of a low Si, ultra-low-C, hot-rolled electrical steel strip is modified by annealing at T < To, the α→γ transformation temperature. This heat treatment causes the abnormal anisotropic growth of surface grains which consumes the original hot-rolled microstructure. The growth of the surface grains first takes place parallel to the rolling direction and then in a columnar form parallel to the normal direction until grains growing in opposite directions from the surfaces impinge at the center of the strip. It is shown that cold rolling and a short annealing treatment at temperatures between 700 and 800 °C leads to microstructures which result in iron energy losses that can be as much as 30% lower than those observed in the same material not subjected to the annealing prior to cold rolling. The magnitude of the reduction in energy losses depends on strip thickness and processing parameters. The major effect is observed in material annealed at 710 °C and the relative effect (with respect to material that is not annealed prior to cold rolling) decreases as the strip thickness decreases. It is shown that these effects can be attributed to the effect of the processing conditions on texture and grain size. The maximum reduction in energy losses is observed when the final microstructure consists of ferrite grains ~1.5 times larger than those obtained if the material is not annealed prior to cold rolling.
Precipitate Characterization in Model Al-Zn-Mg-(Cu) Alloys Using Small-Angle X-ray Scattering
Authors: Freiberg Daniel , Zhu Wenhui , Park Jun-Sang , Almer Jonathan D. , Sanders Paul
Published: July 2020

Model 7000 series alloys with and without copper were fabricated into sheets to study precipitation hardening behavior under isothermal aging conditions. Samples of each alloy were subjected to 3 h annealing treatments at various temperatures to produce a range of precipitate size distributions. Hardness, electrical conductivity, and small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) were used to characterize the aging behavior of the two alloys. Precipitate size distributions were modeled from the scattering curves for each annealing condition using a maximum entropy method (MEM) and compared to select transmission electron microscopy (TEM) results. The measured average precipitate diameters from TEM were in good agreement with the average precipitate diameters determined from the scattering curves.
The Effect of the Processing Parameters on the Properties of the Liquid Phase Spark Plasma Sintered 80Fe-20(Al + MWCNT) Magnetic Metal Matrix Nanocomposites
Authors: Tugirumubano Alexandre , Go Sun Ho , Kwac Lee Ku , Shin Hee Jae , Kim Hong Gun
Published: July 2020

In this paper, the liquid phase sintering was performed using spark plasma sintering to produce iron (Fe: 80 vol%)–aluminum (Al)–multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) magnetic hybrid metal matrix nanocomposites. The properties of the nanocomposites were investigated by considering different parameters of materials processing. The reinforcement of MWCNT with a content of 0–2 vol% did not affect the saturation magnetization of the nanocomposites but increased the coercivity and reduced both the electrical resistivity and the mechanical transverse rupture strength. It was found that milling the powders for 24 h resulted in composite with high saturation magnetization (148.820 A·m2/kg) and high coercivity (2175.6 A/m) but further milling time had reduced the values of magnetic properties. The mixture of Fe nanoparticles and Fe microparticles in composites with a nanoparticles-to-microparticles volume ratio of 1:1 has led to the enhanced saturation magnetization up to 157.820 A·m2/kg and reduced the coercivity of 50.20% in comparison with the Fe nanoparticles based nanocomposites. That mixture exhibited good electrical resistivity but caused the reduction of mechanical strength. The post-sintering annealing has significantly improved the magnetic softness of the composites by reducing the coercivity up to 854.30 A/m and increased the saturation magnetization.
U-Th-He Geochronology of Pyrite from the Uzelga VMS Deposit (South Urals)—New Perspectives for Direct Dating of the Ore-Forming Processes
Authors: Yakubovich Olga , Podolskaya Mary , Vikentyev Ilya , Fokina Elena , Kotov Alexander
Published: July 2020

We report on the application of the U-Th-He method for the direct dating of pyrite and provide an original methodological approach for measurement of U, Th and He in single grains without loss of parent nuclides during thermal extraction of He. The U-Th-He age of ten samples of high-crystalline stoichiometric pyrite from unoxidized massive ores of the Uzelga volcanogenic massive sulfide (VMS) deposit, South Urals, is 382 ± 12 Ma (2σ) (U concentrations ~1–5 ppm; 4He ~10−4 cm3 STP g−1). This age is consistent with independent (biostratigraphic) estimations of the age of ore formation (ca, 389–380 Ma) and is remarkably older than the probable age of the regional prehnite-pumpellyite facies metamorphism (~340–345 Ma). Our results indicate that the U-Th-He dating of ~1 mg weight pyrite sample is possible and open new perspectives for the dating of ore deposits. The relative simplicity of U-Th-He dating in comparison with other geochronological methods makes this approach interesting for further application.
Bragg-Mirror-Assisted High-Contrast Plasmonic Interferometers: Concept and Potential in Terahertz Sensing
Authors: Ma Youqiao , Li Jinhua , Han Zhanghua , Maeda Hiroshi , Ma Yuan
Published: July 2020

A Bragg-mirror-assisted terahertz (THz) high-contrast and broadband plasmonic interferometer is proposed and theoretically investigated for potential sensing applications. The central microslit couples the incident THz wave into unidirectional surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) waves travelling to the bilateral Bragg gratings, where they are totally reflected over a wide wavelength range back towards the microslit. The properties of interference between the SPPs waves and transmitted THz wave are highly dependent on the surrounding material, offering a flexible approach for the realization of refractive index (RI) detection. The systematic study reveals that the proposed interferometric sensor possesses wavelength sensitivity as high as 167 μm RIU−1 (RIU: RI unit). More importantly, based on the intensity interrogation method, an ultrahigh Figure-of-Merit (FoM) of 18,750% RIU−1, surpassing that of previous plasmonic sensors, is obtained due to the high-contrast of interference pattern. The results also demonstrated that the proposed sensors are also quite robust against the oblique illumination. It is foreseen the proposed configuration may open up new horizons in developing THz plasmonic sensing platforms and next-generation integrated THz circuits.
Sucrose Matters. The Need to Make Groups Truly Comparable When Assessing Changes Associated with Insulin Sensitivity. Comment on “Consumption of Cooked Black Beans Stimulates a Cluster of Some Clostridia Class Bacteria Decreasing Inflammatory Response and Improving Insulin Sensitivity.” Nutrients 2020, 12(4), 1182
Authors: Cervantes Jorge
Published: July 2020

The recent paper by Sanchez-Tapia et al [...]
Local Drivers of Anthropogenic Climate Change: Quantifying the Impact through a Remote Sensing Approach in Brisbane
Authors: Mortoja Md. Golam , Yigitcanlar Tan
Published: July 2020

Urban expansions to adjoining greenfield sites, particularly in metropolitan regions, have become a global occurrence. Such urbanization practice results in a significant loss in ecosystem services and triggers climate change—where these changes in land cover and emissions of certain pollutants are the fundamental drivers of climate change. Despite its crucial importance, little is known on how to quantify the impact of local drivers on anthropogenic climate change. This study aims to address the question of how the impacts of local drivers on anthropogenic climate change can be measured. The study utilizes a remote sensing approach to investigate the impacts of a period of over 30 years (1989–2019) in Brisbane, Australia and its adjoining local government areas. The methodological steps of the study are two-fold. First, we measure the greenfield development and corresponding ecosystem services losses and, then, we quantify the risk of such losses attributable to direct and indirect anthropogenic climate change. The findings of the study reveal the followings: (a) the utilized remote sensing method is a useful technique in quantifying the impacts of climate change; (b) over the last 30-year period, Brisbane and its adjoining areas encountered a total loss of about USD 4.5 billion in ecosystem services, due to direct and indirect anthropogenic climate change; (c) peri-urban areas encountered the biggest losses in ecosystem service values; (d) peri-urban areas experienced the highest greenhouse gas emission production levels, and; (e) ecosystem services should be backed up by robust urban management policies—this is critical for mitigating climate change.
Super Resolution by Deep Learning Improves Boulder Detection in Side Scan Sonar Backscatter Mosaics
Authors: Feldens Peter
Published: July 2020

In marine habitat mapping, a demand exists for high-resolution maps of the seafloor both for marine spatial planning and research. One topic of interest is the detection of boulders in side scan sonar backscatter mosaics of continental shelf seas. Boulders are oftentimes numerous, but encompass few pixels in backscatter mosaics. Therefore, both their automatic and manual detection is difficult. In this study, located in the German Baltic Sea, the use of super resolution by deep learning to improve the manual and automatic detection of boulders in backscatter mosaics is explored. It is found that upscaling of mosaics by a factor of 2 to 0.25 m or 0.125 m resolution increases the performance of small boulder detection and boulder density grids. Upscaling mosaics with 1.0 m pixel resolution by a factor of 4 improved performance, but the results are not sufficient for practical application. It is suggested that mosaics of 0.5 m resolution can be used to create boulder density grids in the Baltic Sea in line with current standards following upscaling.