bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proposing a New Method Based on Image Analysis to Estimate the Segregation Index of Lightweight Aggregate Concretes
Authors: Solak Afonso Miguel , Tenza-Abril Antonio José , Baeza-Brotons Francisco , Benavente David
Published: November 2019

This work presents five different methods for quantifying the segregation phenomenon in lightweight aggregate concretes (LWAC). The use of LWACs allows greater design flexibility and substantial cost savings, and has a positive impact on the energy consumption of a building. However, these materials are susceptible to aggregate segregation, which causes an irregular distribution of the lightweight aggregates in the mixture and may affect the concrete properties. To quantify this critical process, a new method based on image analysis is proposed and its results are compared to the well-established methods of density and ultrasonic pulse velocity measurement. The results show that the ultrasonic test method presents a lower accuracy than the other studied methods, although it is a nondestructive test, easy to perform, and does not need material characterization. The new methodology via image analysis has a strong correlation with the other methods, it considers information from the complete section of the samples, and it does not need the horizontal cut of the specimens or material characterization.
P3HT Nanofibrils Thin-Film Transistors by Adsorbing Deposition in Suspension
Authors: Nagamatsu Shuichi , Ishida Masataka , Miyajima Shougo , Pandey Shyam S.
Published: November 2019

A novel film preparation method utilizing polymer suspension, entitled adsorbing deposition in suspensions (ADS), has been proposed. The poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) toluene solution forms P3HT nanofibrils dispersed suspension by aging. P3HT nanofibrils are highly crystallized with sharp vibronic absorption spectra. By the ADS method, only P3HT nanofibrils in suspension can be deposited on the substrate surface without any disordered fraction from the dissolved P3HT in suspension. Formed ADS film contains only the nanostructured conjugated polymer. Fabricated polymer thin-film transistor (TFT) utilizing ADS P3HT film shows good TFT performances with low off current, narrow subthreshold swing and large on/off current ratio.
Laser-CMT Hybrid Welding-Brazing of Al/Steel Butt Joint: Weld Formation, Intermetallic Compounds, and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Chen Yuxin , Yang Zhibin , Shi Chunyuan , Xin Zhibin , Zeng Zitong
Published: November 2019

6A01-T5 aluminum alloy and SUS301L-DLT austenitic stainless steel sheets were welded by a laser-cold metal transfer (CMT) hybrid welding-brazing method with ER5183 filler wire. We researched the weld forming, intermetallic compounds, and mechanical character, which are influenced by laser power, wire feeding speed, and welding speed. Well-formed joints with uniformly distributed interface layers were obtained under certain parameters. The spreading and wetting distance on the steel upper surface increased initially and then decreased as the laser power increased, and increased progressively as the wire feeding speed increased or welding speed decreased. There were both Fe2Al5 and Fe4Al13 in the interfacial intermetallic compounds (IMCs) layer. The thickness was controlled to within 2.0–6.9 µm. The thickness of the IMCs layer increased as the heat input increased; however, the increasing rate decreased gradually. The tensile strength of the joints was not only completely dependent on the thickness of the IMCs, but also on the spreading and wetting distance on the steel surface. The highest tensile strength could reach up to 188.7 MPa, which is about 77.1% of that of the base aluminum alloy. The tensile sample fracture occurred at the IMCs layer, and regional metallurgical bonding happened in the interface layer.
Comparison of Achievable Contrast Features in Computed Tomography Observing the Growth of a 4H-SiC Bulk Crystal
Authors: Salamon Michael , Arzig Matthias , Wellmann Peter J. , Uhlmann Norman
Published: November 2019

Today the physical vapor transport process is regularly applied for the growth of bulk SiC crystals. Due to the required high temperature of up to 2400 °C, and low gas pressure of several Mbar inside the crucible, the systems are encapsulated by several layers for heating, cooling and isolation inhibiting the operator from observing the growth. Also, the crucible itself is fully encapsulated to avoid impurities from being inserted into the crystal or disturbing the temperature field distribution. Thus, once the crucible has been set up with SiC powder and the seed crystal, the visible access to the progress of growth is limited. In the past, X-ray radiography has allowed this limitation to be overcome by placing the crucible in between an X-ray source and a radiographic film. Recently these two-dimensional attenuation signals have been extended to three-dimensional density distribution by the technique of computed tomography (CT). Beside the classic X-ray attenuation signal dominated by photoelectric effect, Compton effect and Rayleigh scattering, X-ray diffraction resulting in the crystalline structure of the 4H-SiC superimposes the reconstructed result. In this contribution, the achievable material contrast related to the level of X-ray energy and the absorption effects is analyzed using different CT systems with energies from 125 kV to 9 MeV. Furthermore the X-ray diffraction influence is shown by the comparison between the advanced helical-CT method and the classical 3D-CT.
Low Temperature NH3-SCR over Mn-Ce Oxides Supported on MCM-41 from Diatomite
Authors: Ma Mingxuan , Ma Xiaoyu , Cui Suping , Liu Tingting , Tian Yingliang , Wang Yali
Published: November 2019

A series of MCM-41 molecular sieves with different molar ratio of template to silicon were synthesized through hydrothermal synthesis method by using cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) as the template, diatomite as the silicon source. By using impregnation method, the Mn-Ce/MCM-41 SCR molecular sieve-based catalysts were prepared. The results observed that when the molar ratio of template to silicon was 0.2:1, the MCM-41 as catalyst carrier has the highest surface area and largest pore volume, it also presented typically ordered hexagonal arrays of uniform channels. The denitration catalytic material based on this carrier has a high number of Lewis acidic sites, and the denitration efficiency can reach more than 93%.
Analysis of the Versatility of Multi-Linear Softening Functions Applied in the Simulation of Fracture Behaviour of Fibre-Reinforced Cementitious Materials
Authors: Enfedaque Alejandro , Alberti Marcos G. , Gálvez Jaime C.
Published: November 2019

Fibre-reinforced cementitious materials (FRC) have become an attractive alternative for structural applications. Among such FRC, steel- and polyolefin fibre-reinforced concrete and glass fibre-reinforced concrete are the most used ones. However, in order to exploit the properties of such materials, structural designers need constitutive relations that accurately reproduce FRC fracture behaviour. This contribution analyses the suitability of multilinear softening functions combined with a cohesive crack approach for reproducing the fracture behaviour of the FRC mentioned earlier. The performed implementation accurately simulated fracture behaviour, while being versatile, robust, and efficient from a numerical point-of-view.
Thermogravimetry and Mass Spectrometry of Extractable Organics from Manufactured Nanomaterials for Identification of Potential Coating Components
Authors: Clausen Per Axel , Kofoed-Sørensen Vivi , Nørgaard Asger W. , Sahlgren Nicklas Mønster , Jensen Keld Alstrup
Published: November 2019

Manufactured nanomaterials (MNMs) often have a surface-chemical modification in order to tailor their physicochemical properties, including also powder properties and miscibility. Surface-chemical modifications may influence the toxicological properties of the MNM, but the specific chemistry and extent are rarely described in detail in suppliers’ technical data sheets. Chemical and quantitative information on any surface-chemical treatment, coating and functionalization are required for chemicals registration in Europe. Currently there is no globally accepted and documented approach to generate such data. Consequently, there is a continued research need to establish a structured approach to identify and quantify surface-chemical modifications. Here we present a tiered approach starting with screening for mass-loss during heating in a furnace or thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) followed by solvent extraction, and analysis by several mass spectrometry (MS) techniques depending on the target analytes. Thermal treatment was assumed to be able to quantify the amount of organic coating and MS was used to identify the extractable organic coatings after pressurized liquid extraction (PLE) using methanol at 200 °C. Volatile organic compounds in extracts were identified with gas chromatography and MS (GC-MS), non-volatile organic compounds with liquid chromatography MS (LC-MS), and polymeric compounds with matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight MS (MALDI-TOF-MS). The approach was demonstrated by analysis of 24 MNM, comprising titanium dioxide, synthetic amorphous silica, graphite, zinc oxide, silver, calcium carbonate, iron oxide, nickel-zinc-iron oxide, and organoclay. In extracts of 14 MNMs a range of organic compounds were identified and the main groups were silanes/siloxanes, fatty acids, fatty acid esters, quaternary ammonium compounds and polymeric compounds. In the remaining 10 MNMs no organic compounds were detected by MS, despite the fact an organic coating was indicated by TGA.
The Li2SO4–Na2SO4 System for Thermal Energy Storage
Authors: Doppiu Stefania , Dauvergne Jean-Luc , Serrano Angel , Palomo del Barrio Elena
Published: November 2019

In this paper, the system Li2SO4–Na2SO4 is proposed as a candidate material for thermal energy storage applications at high temperatures (450–550 °C). Depending on the composition, the thermal energy can be stored by using a eutectoid reaction and solid–solid phase transition. In these types of systems, all the components (reagent and products) are in the solid state. This work includes the theoretical analysis (based on the Calphad method) of the system selected obtaining all the theoretical parameters (for example, enthalpies of reaction, transition temperatures, volume expansion, and the heat capacities) necessary to determine the theoretical performance in terms of thermal energy storage. The theoretical analysis allowed to identify two compositions (Li2SO4/Na2SO4 79/21 and 50/50) in the phase diagram with the most promising theoretical enthalpy of transformation (270 J/g and 318 J/g, respectively) corresponding to a eutectoid reaction and a solid–solid phase transition (stoichiometric compound LiNaSO4). The experimental analysis carried out allowed to confirm the great potential of this system for TES application even if some discrepancies with the theoretical calculation have been observed experimentally (energy densities lower than expected). For the two compositions studied, 79/21 and 50/50, the enthalpies of reaction are 185 J/g and 160 J/g, respectively. The reactivity of the system was tested under different experimental conditions preparing materials with a different degree of nanocrystallization to favor the diffusion in the solid state, testing the reactivity of the materials under controlled atmosphere and under air, and performing preliminary durability analysis (cycling behavior up to 20 cycles) to test the stability and reversibility.
Review of Recent Advances in Polylactic Acid/TiO2 Composites
Authors: Kaseem Mosab , Hamad Kotiba , Ur Rehman Zeeshan
Published: November 2019

Polylactic acid/titanium oxide (PLA/TiO2) composites as multifunctional materials have been studied extensively by couple of research groups owing to their outstanding mechanical, thermal, photocatalytic, and antimicrobial properties. This review describes the experimental approaches used to improve the compatibility of PLA/TiO2 composites. The mechanical, thermal, photocatalytic, and antimicrobial properties of PLA/TiO2 composites are discussed. The potential applications arising from the structural and functional properties of PLA/TiO2 composites were also reviewed. Finally, it is concluded that a deep understanding of the impacts of TiO2 filler with available improvement approaches in the dispersibility of this filler in the PLA matrix would be the key for the effective usage of PLA/TiO2 composites and to expand their suitability with worldwide application requirements.
Exploration of Weld Bead Forming Rule during Double-Pulsed GMAW Process Based on Grey Relational Analysis
Authors: Yao Ping , Zhou Kang , Lin Hongyan , Xu Zihui , Yue Songchen
Published: November 2019

Weld bead forming rule is very important during double-pulsed gas metal arc welding (DP-GMAW) process, and this process has more advantages than that of conventional arc welding process. This work employed grey rational analysis to explore the weld bead forming rule. Since the latest twinpulse XT DP control process was employed, the parameters adjustment was easier than that of conventional operation. The grey relational analyses between five main process parameters, which were average welding current, welding speed, twin pulse relation, twin pulse frequency together with twin pulse current change in percent, and three key characteristic parameters, which were bead width, bead height and penetration, were conducted to explore the weld bead forming rule. To accurately calculate the grey relational degree, the negative relevancies were transformed to positive ones. According to calculations and corresponding analyses, it can be concluded that the effects of average welding current and welding speed on the weld bead forming and key characteristic parameters of the weld bead were higher than that of other process parameters. Moreover, the relevancies between key characteristic parameters of the weld bead, and process parameters which included twin pulse relation, average welding current and twin pulse current change in percent were positive, while the relevancies between key characteristic parameters and other two process parameters were negative. The work can supply a new method to evaluate the effects of process parameters during the DP-GMAW process on the weld bead forming or other process characteristics, and references for parameters selection and process optimization.
Effects of High CaO Fly Ash and Sulfate Activator as a Finer Binder for Cementless Grouting Material
Authors: Lee Jaehyun , Lee Taegyu
Published: November 2019

The effects or high CaO fly ash and sulfate activator on cementless grouting material were investigated through Labiles Waterglass (LW) grouting applied at an actual construction field. Circulating fluidized bed combustion ash was used as CaO fly ash, and petro cokes desulfurization gypsum was used as sulfate activator. Cementless grouting material (CGM) could decrease the gel time by about 16.7% compared with ordinary Portland cement (OPC). This characteristic improved the average daily workload and construction period per meter by about 13.5% with CGM. Furthermore, when constructing 1000 holes of LW grouting, the construction time could be reduced by 19 days (20% of the total construction period of LW grouting). Meanwhile, CGM could increase the homogel strength by about 48.4% after 28 days compared with OPC. After X-ray diffraction analysis and scanning electron microscope analysis, CGM was found to produce cement hydrate by chemical reaction mechanism of high CaO fly ash and sulfate activator, even though cement was not used. The matrix structure properties of CGM and OPC specimens were similar, but CGM, with 134.3% fineness, exhibited higher compressive strength and lower air permeability than OPC. As a result, CGM could reduce the leakage length per square meter by 74.4% compared with OPC. Using CGM as a substitute for OPC in LW grouting in actual sites could be beneficial in terms of securing construction speed and durability, as well as reducing CO2 emissions due to reduction of OPC usage.
Tribological and Electrochemical Characterization of UHMWPE Hybrid Nanocomposite Coating for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Ahmed Baduruthamal Zahid , Mohammed Abdul Samad , Kumar A. Madhan , Hussein Mohamed A. , Al-Aqeeli Naser
Published: November 2019

A new approach of using a polymer hybrid nanocomposite coating to modify the surface of titanium and its alloys is explored in this study. Electrostatic spray coating process is used to deposit the coating on the plasma-treated substrates for better adhesion. Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) has been selected as the parent matrix for the coating due to its biocompatibility and excellent tribological properties. However, to improve its load-bearing capacity carbon nanotubes (CNT’s) (0.5, 1.5, and 3 wt.%) are used as reinforcement and to further enhance its performance, different weight percent of hydroxyapatite (HA) (0.5, 1.5, 3, and 5 wt.%) are introduced to form a hybrid nanocomposite coating. The dispersion of CNT’s and HA was evaluated by Raman spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The electrochemical corrosion behavior of the nanocomposite coatings was evaluated by performing potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopic tests in simulated body fluid. Tribological performance of the developed hybrid nanocomposite coating was evaluated using a 6.3 mm diameter stainless steel (440C) ball as the counterface in a ball-on-disk configuration. Tests were carried out at different normal loads (7 N, 9 N, 12 N, and 15 N) and a constant sliding velocity of 0.1 m/s. The developed hybrid nanocomposite coating showed excellent mechanical properties in terms of high hardness, improved scratch resistance, and excellent wear and corrosion resistance compared to the pristine UHMWPE coatings.
Synthesis of High-performance LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 Cathode Material for Lithium-ion Batteries by Using a Four Times Liquid Nitrogen Quenching Method and an Al2O3 Coating Method
Authors: Yang Wenyuan , Zuo Yinze , Chen Qi , Zhang Yan
Published: November 2019

Based on the normal co-precipitation method to synthesize LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 cathode material, we propose a novel approach using a liquid nitrogen quenching method to synthesize Al2O3 coated LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 cathode material. In the whole process, liquid nitrogen was used four times to quench the materials from high temperatures (50 °C, 750 °C, 90 °C, 500 °C) to −196 °C rapidly in four stages. Various characterizations proved that this method could help to improve the electrochemical performance of lithium-ion batteries. Especially at 5 C rate current, after 100 cycles, the specific discharge capacities were 24.5 mAh/g (LNCM 622), 43.8 mAh/g (LNCM 622-LN), and 53.9 mAh/g (LNCM 622-LN@Al2O3). Liquid N2 quenching increased the charge/discharge capacities and the Al2O3 layer increased the cycle stability at high current, to finally obtain improved electrochemical properties.
Prediction of Cyclic Stress–Strain Property of Steels by Crystal Plasticity Simulations and Machine Learning
Authors: Miyazawa Yuto , Briffod Fabien , Shiraiwa Takayuki , Enoki Manabu
Published: November 2019

In this study, a method for the prediction of cyclic stress–strain properties of ferrite-pearlite steels was proposed. At first, synthetic microstructures were generated based on an anisotropic tessellation from the results of electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) analyses. Low-cycle fatigue experiments under strain-controlled conditions were conducted in order to calibrate material property parameters for both an anisotropic crystal plasticity and an isotropic J2 model. Numerical finite element simulations were conducted using these synthetic microstructures and material properties based on experimental results, and cyclic stress-strain properties were calculated. Then, two-point correlations of synthetic microstructures were calculated to quantify the microstructures. The microstructure-property dataset was obtained by associating a two-point correlation and calculated cyclic stress-strain property. Machine learning, such as a linear regression model and neural network, was conducted using the dataset. Finally, cyclic stress-strain properties were predicted from the result of EBSD analysis using the obtained machine learning model and were compared with the results of the low-cycle fatigue experiments.
Wind Turbine Noise Prediction Using Random Forest Regression
Authors: Iannace Gino , Ciaburro Giuseppe , Trematerra Amelia
Published: November 2019

Wind energy is one of the most widely used renewable energy sources in the world and has grown rapidly in recent years. However, the wind towers generate a noise that is perceived as an annoyance by the population living near the wind farms. It is therefore important to new tools that can help wind farm builders and the administrations. In this study, the measurements of the noise emitted by a wind farm and the data recorded by the supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system were used to construct a prediction model. First, acoustic measurements and control system data have been analyzed to characterize the phenomenon. An appropriate number of observations were then extracted, and these data were pre-processed. Subsequently two models of prediction of sound pressure levels were built at the receiver: a model based on multiple linear regression, and a model based on Random Forest algorithm. As predictors wind speeds measured near the wind turbines and the active power of the turbines were selected. Both data were measured by the SCADA system of wind turbines. The model based on the Random Forest algorithm showed high values of the Pearson correlation coefficient (0.981), indicating a high number of correct predictions. This model can be extremely useful, both for the receiver and for the wind farm manager. Through the results of the model it will be possible to establish for which wind speed values the noise produced by wind turbines become dominant. Furthermore, the predictive model can give an overview of the noise produced by the receiver from the system in different operating conditions. Finally, the prediction model does not require the shutdown of the plant, a very expensive procedure due to the consequent loss of production.
A Methodology for Product Development in Mobile Machinery: Case Example of an Excavator
Authors: Alaei Nima , Kurvinen Emil , Mikkola Aki
Published: November 2019

Digital tools have become indispensable for the testing and modification of prototypes in mobile and industrial machine manufacturing. Data that are extracted from virtual experimentation and analysis are both affordable and valuable, due to their repeatability and because they are close to real-world observations. Expert knowledge is a prerequisite for full deployment of computer aided engineering tools in the design phase and concomitant stages of product development. Currently, such knowledge, for the most part, is provided by the product development team and the manufacturer. Yet, it is important that manufacturers and designers receive end-user feedback throughout the product development process. However, end-users often lack sufficient know-how about the technical and engineering background of the product development, and this lack of understanding can become a barrier to user-designer communication. The aim of this article is to present an alternative to traditional design approaches that is based on customized real-time multibody simulation. This simulation-based approach can be seen as a platform that has the potential to improve knowledge management systems for product development. End-user feedback to the designer is given in a systematic manner throughout the design process using a multipurpose XML-based multibody environment.
Compressible Navier-Stokes Equations in Cylindrical Passages and General Dynamics of Surfaces—(I)-Flow Structures and (II)-Analyzing Biomembranes under Static and Dynamic Conditions
Authors: Moschandreou Terry E. , Afas Keith C.
Published: November 2019

A new approach to solve the compressible Navier-Stokes equations in cylindrical co-ordinates using Geometric Algebra is proposed. This work was recently initiated by corresponding author of this current work, and in contrast due to a now complete geometrical analysis, particularly, two dimensionless parameters are now introduced whose correct definition depends on the scaling invariance of the N-S equations and the one parameter δ defines an equation in density which can be solved for in the tube, and a geometric Variational Calculus approach showing that the total energy of an existing wave vortex in the tube is made up of kinetic energy by vortex movement and internal energy produced by the friction against the wall of the tube. Density of a flowing gas or vapour varies along the length of the tube due to frictional losses along the tube implying that there is a pressure loss and a corresponding density decrease. After reducing the N-S equations to a single PDE, it is here proven that a Hunter-Saxton wave vortex exists along the wall of the tube due to a vorticity argument. The reduced problem shows finite-time blowup as the two parameters δ and α approach zero. A rearranged form for density is valid for δ approaching infinity for the case of incompressible flow proving positive for the existence of smooth solutions to the cylindrical Navier-Stokes equations. Finally we propose a CMS (Calculus of Moving Surfaces)–invariant variational calculus to analyze general dynamic surfaces of Riemannian 2-Manifolds in R 3 . Establishing fluid structures in general compressible flows and analyzing membranes in such flows for example flows with dynamic membranes immersed in fluid (vapour or gas) with vorticity as, for example, in the lungs there can prove to be a strong connection between fluid and solid mechanics.
Addendum: Shqair, M., et al. Analytical Solution for Multi-Energy Groups of Neutron Diffusion Equations by a Residual Power Series Method. Mathematics 2019, 7, 633
Authors: Shqair Mohammed , El-Ajou Ahmad , Nairat Mazen
Published: November 2019

The authors wish to insert this additional sentence in the Acknowledgments section [...]
A Class of Sheffer Sequences of Some Complex Polynomials and Their Degenerate Types
Authors: Kim Dojin
Published: November 2019

We study some properties of Sheffer sequences for some special polynomials with complex Changhee and Daehee polynomials introducing their complex versions of the polynomials and splitting them into real and imaginary parts using trigonometric polynomial sequences. Moreover, considering their degenerate types of Sheffer sequences based on umbral composition, we present some useful expressions, properties, and examples about complex versions of the degenerate polynomials.
Fault-Tolerant Path-Embedding of Twisted Hypercube-Like Networks (THLNs)
Authors: Zhang Huifeng , Xu Xirong , Zhang Qiang , Yang Yuansheng
Published: November 2019

It is known widely that an interconnection network can be denoted by a graph G = ( V , E ) , where V denotes the vertex set and E denotes the edge set. Investigating structures of G is necessary to design a suitable topological structure of interconnection network. One of the critical issues in evaluating an interconnection network is graph embedding, which concerns whether a host graph contains a guest graph as its subgraph. Linear arrays (i.e., paths) and rings (i.e., cycles) are two ordinary guest graphs (or basic networks) for parallel and distributed computation. In the process of large-scale interconnection network operation, it is inevitable that various errors may occur at nodes and edges. It is significant to find an embedding of a guest graph into a host graph where all faulty nodes and edges have been removed. This is named as fault-tolerant embedding. The twisted hypercube-like networks ( T H L N s ) contain several important hypercube variants. This paper is concerned with the fault-tolerant path-embedding of n-dimensional (n-D) T H L N s . Let G n be an n-D T H L N and F be a subset of V ( G n ) ∪ E ( G n ) with | F | ≤ n − 2 . We show that for two different arbitrary correct vertices u and v, there is a faultless path P u v of every length l with 2 n − 1 − 1 ≤ l ≤ 2 n − f v − 1 − α , where α = 0 if vertices u and v form a normal vertex-pair and α = 1 if vertices u and v form a weak vertex-pair in G n − F ( n ≥ 5 ).
Anti-Aging Effect of Agar Oligosaccharide on Male Drosophila melanogaster and Its Preliminary Mechanism
Authors: Ma Chao , Yang Kun , Wang Yifan , Dai Xianjun
Published: November 2019

Agar oligosaccharide (AOS) is a marine prebiotic with apparent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-tumor effects. During this study, different doses of AOS are added to a basal diet to evaluate its effects on the lifespan, motor vigor and reproduction of male Drosophila melanogaster. Additionally, the activities of Cu,Zn-superoxide dismutase (Cu,Zn-SOD) and catalase (CAT) and the malondialdehyde (MDA) content in male Drosophila are examined on the 10th, 25th and 40th days. The fly midguts are removed on the 10th and 40th days for analyses of the intestinal microbial community by 16S rDNA sequencing and the expression level of intestinal immunity genes by quantitative real-time PCR (RT-PCR). The results show that AOS significantly prolonged the average and maximum lifespan and increased the antioxidant capacity of male Drosophila. Additionally, AOS significantly regulated the structure of the intestinal flora of "old" flies (40 days) and upregulated the expression of immune deficiency (IMD) genes to improve the intestinal immunity, which could be beneficial for delaying aging in old flies. The above-described results provide a theoretical basis for the application of AOS, a type of marine oligosaccharide, as a nutritional supplement or immunomodulator.
Investigating the Influence of Process Parameters on the Structural Integrity of an Additively Manufactured Nickel-Based Superalloy
Authors: Hilal Hani , Lancaster Robert , Stapleton Dave , Baxter Gavin
Published: November 2019

Additive manufacturing (AM) is a novel near net shape manufacturing technology that joins metallic powders layer upon layer in conjunction with 3D model data and as such offers tremendous potential to a wide range of industrial sectors given its ability to produce highly intricate components with very little material wastage. Subsequently, the aerospace industry has become particularly interested in utilising AM as a means of manufacturing nickel-based superalloys for high-temperature applications, such as non-rotating components within gas turbine engines, which are traditionally fabricated through traditional cast and wrought methodologies. As a result of this, a detailed understanding of the influence of key process variables on the structural integrity of the different experimental builds is required. A semi-empirical quantitative approach for melt track analysis has been conducted and the impact on melt track sizing and defect forming mechanisms in the as-built and heat-treated condition is investigated.
Damping Capacity and Storage Modulus of SiC Matrix Composites Infiltrated by AlSi Alloy
Authors: Li Xuan , Fan Yongzhe , Zhao Xue , Ma Ruina , Du An , Cao Xiaoming , Ban Huiyun
Published: November 2019

In this paper, we describe how an aluminum alloy-reinforced silicon carbide ceramic matrix composite (SiCCMC) with excellent damping capacity and storage modulus was fabricated by infiltration. The effects of silicon (Si) on the microstructure and damping capacity of the composite were studied. The interface bonding and damping mechanism involved were also discussed. The results show that composites with high damping capacity can be obtained by infiltrating SiC ceramics with aluminum alloy. The residual Si in the SiC ceramic had little effect on the damping capacity, and it provided the passage of aluminum alloy into the interior of the SiC ceramic. The aluminum atoms penetrate the SiC particles by diffusion. Optimal composite damping capacity was obtained when the Si content in the aluminum alloy was 15 wt. %, because the AlSi/SiC interface friction dissipated most of thermal energy. Ti3SiC2 formed on the surface had little effect on the damping capacity. Additionally, by changing the Si content in the aluminum alloy, the strength and damping capacity of the composites can be controlled.
Simulation and Experimental Comparison of Laser Impact Welding with a Plasma Pressure Model
Authors: Sadeh Sepehr , Gleason Glenn H. , Hatamleh Mohammad I. , Sunny Sumair F. , Yu Haoliang , Malik Arif S. , Qian Dong
Published: November 2019

In this study, spatial and temporal profiles of an Nd-YAG laser beam pressure pulse are experimentally characterized and fully captured for use in numerical simulations of laser impact welding (LIW). Both axisymmetric, Arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian (ALE) and Eulerian dynamic explicit numerical simulations of the collision and deformation of the flyer and target foils are created. The effect of the standoff distance between the foils on impact angle, velocity distribution, springback, the overall shape of the deformed foils, and the weld strength in lap shear tests are investigated. In addition, the jetting phenomenon (separation and ejection of particles at very high velocities due to high-impact collision) and interlocking of the foils along the weld interface are simulated. Simulation results are compared to experiments, which exhibit very similar deformation and impact behaviors. In contrast to previous numerical studies that assume a pre-defined deformed flyer foil shape with uniform initial velocity, the research in this work shows that incorporation of the actual spatial and temporal profiles of the laser beam and modeling of the corresponding pressure pulse based on a laser shock peening approach provides a more realistic prediction of the LIW process mechanism.
Influence of Vibrational Loading on Deformation Behavior of Metallic Glass: A Molecular Dynamics Study
Authors: Zhang Mao , Li Qiaomin , Zhang Jiacheng , Wang Xinyun , Jin Junsong , Gong Pan , Deng Lei
Published: November 2019

The influence of vibrational loading on the deformation behavior of a Zr50Cu46Al4 metallic glass (MG) was characterized via molecular dynamics approaches. High-frequency (1 GHz) vibrational loading was imposed on the elastoplastic deformation stage during the uniaxial tension of the MG conducted at 50 K. It was found that imposing vibrational loading scarcely reduces the average deformation resistance. On the contrary, it results in a notable residual hardening effect after the vibrational loading is removed, which differs significantly from the previously reported acoustic softening mechanisms. Vibrational loading can increase the fraction of STZed atoms and enhance the shear localization degree, which is beneficial to the shear deformation of MGs. Meanwhile, the influence of vibrational loading on the local microstructure of MG is negligible. A plausible explanation of these phenomena is given by considering the accelerated aging of MG stemming from the β relaxation.
Study of the Differentially Expressed Genes in the Pomacea canaliculata Transcriptome after Treatment with Pedunsaponin A
Authors: Yang Chunping , Lv Tianxing , Zhang Yangyang , Wang Bin , Zhao Xiaomin , Zhang Min , Gong Guoshu , Chang Xiaoli , Yue Guizhou , Qiu Xiaoyan , Luo Liya , Chen Huabao
Published: November 2019

Transcriptomes, genomes, and proteomes have played important roles in the search for drug targets. To determine the molluscicidal mechanism of pedunsaponin A against Pomacea canaliculata, RNA-seq technology was adopted to analyze the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the P. canaliculata transcriptome after treatment with pedunsaponin A. As a result, 533 DEGs were identified, among which 255 genes were significantly upregulated and 278 genes were significantly downregulated. According to the analysis of Gene Ontology (GO) functions, we found that the DEGs were significantly enriched in the viral life cycle, UDP-glucose 4-epimerase activity, guanylate cyclase activity, the cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) biosynthetic process, and the cGMP metabolic process. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway results showed that the DEGs were mainly involved in the hedgehog signaling pathway, phagosome, cytosolic DNA-sensing pathway, retinoic acid-inducible gene I like (RIG-I-like) receptor signaling pathway, bacterial secretion system, and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kappa B) signaling pathway. The above results indicated that pedunsaponin A causes a metabolic disorder, anomalous opening of membrane ion channels, and an imbalance in osmotic pressure between the interior and exterior of cells, eventually resulting in the death of cells involved in immune defense and influencing the immune response of P. canaliculata.
Metabolomics Test Materials for Quality Control: A Study of a Urine Materials Suite
Authors: Bearden Daniel W. , Sheen David A. , Simón-Manso Yamil , Benner Bruce A. , Rocha Werickson F. C. , Blonder Niksa , Lippa Katrice A. , Beger Richard D. , Schnackenberg Laura K. , Sun Jinchun , Mehta Khyati Y. , Cheema Amrita K. , Gu Haiwei , Marupaka Ramesh , Nagana Gowda G. A. , Raftery Daniel
Published: November 2019

There is a lack of experimental reference materials and standards for metabolomics measurements, such as urine, plasma, and other human fluid samples. Reasons include difficulties with supply, distribution, and dissemination of information about the materials. Additionally, there is a long lead time because reference materials need their compositions to be fully characterized with uncertainty, a labor-intensive process for material containing thousands of relevant compounds. Furthermore, data analysis can be hampered by different methods using different software by different vendors. In this work, we propose an alternative implementation of reference materials. Instead of characterizing biological materials based on their composition, we propose using untargeted metabolomic data such as nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) or gas and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS and LC-MS) profiles. The profiles are then distributed with the material accompanying the certificate, so that researchers can compare their own metabolomic measurements with the reference profiles. To demonstrate this approach, we conducted an interlaboratory study (ILS) in which seven National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) urine Standard Reference Material®s (SRM®s) were distributed to participants, who then returned the metabolomic data to us. We then implemented chemometric methods to analyze the data together to estimate the uncertainties in the current measurement techniques. The participants identified similar patterns in the profiles that distinguished the seven samples. Even when the number of spectral features is substantially different between platforms, a collective analysis still shows significant overlap that allows reliable comparison between participants. Our results show that a urine suite such as that used in this ILS could be employed for testing and harmonization among different platforms. A limited quantity of test materials will be made available for researchers who are willing to repeat the protocols presented here and contribute their data.
Caucasian Gentiana Species: Untargeted LC-MS Metabolic Profiling, Antioxidant and Digestive Enzyme Inhibiting Activity of Six Plants
Authors: Olennikov Daniil N. , Gadimli Aydan I. , Isaev Javanshir I. , Kashchenko Nina I. , Prokopyev Alexey S. , Kataeva Tatyana N. , Chirikova Nadezhda K. , Vennos Cecile
Published: November 2019

The members of Gentiana genus are widely distributed in the Caucasus region where they are used as phytoremedies, but they still have not been studied for their chemical composition and bioactivity. High-performance liquid chromatography with diode array and electrospray triple quadrupole mass detection (HPLC-DAD-ESI-QQQ-MS) was used to investigate metabolites of herb and roots of six gentians (Gentiana asclepiadea, G. cruciata, G. gelida, G. paradoxa, G. pneumonanthe, G. septemfida) grown in the Caucasus. In total, 137 compounds were found including three carbohydrates, 71 iridoid glycosides (mostly loganic acid), loganin, swertiamarin, gentiopicroside and sweroside derivatives, 40 flavones C-, O-, C,O-glycosides (such as luteolin, apigenin, chrysoeriol, and acacetin derivatives), two phenolic O-glycosides, five hydroxycinnamates, eight xanthones, and seven triterpene glycosides. Most of these compounds were identified in gentian samples for the first time. Quantitative differences were found in levels of seven iridoid glycosides, nine glycosylflavones, and two xanthones obtained by HPLC-DAD assay. The gentian extracts were evaluated for their radical-scavenging properties against DPPH and superoxide anion radicals, lipid peroxidation inhibition, and α-amylase/α-glycosidase inhibition. The herb extracts showed higher activity than root extracts. Positive correlations were found between the content of quantified phenolics and antioxidant and digestive enzymes inhibiting activity. The findings presented in our work suggest that the Caucasian gentians are a good source of bioactive phytocompounds with antioxidant and antidiabetic potential.
Unveiling the Potential of Droplet Generation, Sorting, Expansion, and Restoration in Microfluidic Biochips
Authors: Chiu Yi-Lung , Yadav Ruchi Ashok Kumar , Huang Hong-Yuan , Wang Yi-Wen , Yao Da-Jeng
Published: November 2019

Microfluidic biochip techniques are prominently replacing conventional biochemical analyzers by the integration of all functions necessary for biochemical analysis using microfluidics. The microfluidics of droplets offer exquisite control over the size of microliter samples to satisfy the requirements of embryo culture, which might involve a size ranging from picoliter to nanoliter. Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) is the mainstream material for the fabrication of microfluidic devices due to its excellent biocompatibility and simplicity of fabrication. Herein, we developed a microfluidic biomedical chip on a PDMS substrate that integrated four key functions—generation of a droplet of an emulsion, sorting, expansion and restoration, which were employed in a mouse embryo system to assess reproductive medicine. The main channel of the designed chip had width of 1200 μm and height of 500 μm. The designed microfluidic chips possessed six sections—cleaved into three inlets and three outlets—to study the key functions with five-day embryo culture. The control part of the experiment was conducted with polystyrene (PS) beads (100 μm), the same size as the murine embryos, for the purpose of testing. The outcomes of our work illustrate that the rate of success of the static droplet culture group (87.5%) is only slightly less than that of a conventional group (95%). It clearly demonstrates that a droplet-based microfluidic system can produce a droplet in a volume range from picoliter to nanoliter.
Screening of Various Metabolites in Six Barley Varieties Grown under Natural Climatic Conditions (2016–2018)
Authors: Habschied Kristina , Krska Rudolf , Sulyok Michael , Šarkanj Bojan , Krstanović Vinko , Lalić Alojzije , Šimić Gordana , Mastanjević Krešimir
Published: November 2019

Climatic changes influence considerably the distribution and occurrence of different secondary metabolites in cereals. The aim of this investigation was to assess the changes in metabolite prevalence observed in six different winter barley varieties over a statistically significant period of three years by linking agro-climatic conditions with metabolite concentrations in chosen samples. The results showed that temperatures and precipitation levels varied during the observed timeframe and that the multi-toxin concentrations followed the trend of changing climatic conditions depending on the variety. All quantified (fungal) metabolites showed significant variations throughout the years and, for some (tryptophol and the cyclic dipeptides cyclo(L-Pro-L-Tyr) and cyclo(L-Pro-L-Val)), an unexpected, but clear connection can be made with temperature changes and precipitation levels during the growing season.
Adsorption Properties of Sepiolite in Relation to Uranium and Lanthanide Ions
Authors: Gładysz-Płaska Agnieszka
Published: November 2019

The batch technique was used to study the adsorption of La(III), Eu(III), Lu(III), and U(VI) ions on sepiolite and ODTMA–sepiolite under ambient conditions. The effects of pH, time, and initial concentration were investigated. The highest U(VI) adsorption was found on ODTMA-sepiolite in the pH range of 6–8, while in the case of lanthanide ions, adsorption on sepiolite was 80% in the pH range of 4–8 and 98% for pH values above 8. The adsorption capacity of ODTMA-sepiolite was found to be 285.6 mg/g for uranium, and raw sepiolite: 142.8 mg/g for U(VI), 91.6 mg/g for La(III), 91.4 mg/g for Eu (III), and 104.9 mol/g for Lu(III). ODTMA–sepiolite turned out to be a weak sorbent for lanthanide ions. Two short- and long-lived fluorescence species were observed in the TRLFS spectra of U(VI) adsorbed on sepiolite at pH 6.5. The average lifetimes of short- (τ1) and long-lived (τ2) fluorescence are τ1 = 2420 ± 430 ns and τ2 = 37950 ± 5710 ns for U-sepiolite; τ1 = 3523 ± 160 ns and τ2 = 45400 ± 1830 ns for U-ODTMA–sepiolite.
Novel C7-Substituted Coumarins as Selective Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors: Discovery, Synthesis and Theoretical Simulation
Authors: Wang Dong , Hong Ren-Yuan , Guo Mengyao , Liu Yi , Chen Nianhang , Li Xun , Kong De-Xin
Published: November 2019

There is a continued need to develop new selective human monoamine oxidase (hMAO) inhibitors that could be beneficial for the treatment of neurological diseases. However, hMAOs are closely related with high sequence identity and structural similarity, which hinders the development of selective MAO inhibitors. “Three-Dimensional Biologically Relevant Spectrum (BRS-3D)” method developed by our group has demonstrated its effectiveness in subtype selectivity studies of receptor and enzyme ligands. Here, we report a series of novel C7-substituted coumarins, either synthesized or commercially purchased, which were identified as selective hMAO inhibitors. Most of the compounds demonstrated strong activities with IC50 values (half-inhibitory concentration) ranging from sub-micromolar to nanomolar. Compounds, FR1 and SP1, were identified as the most selective hMAO-A inhibitors, with IC50 values of 1.5 nM (selectivity index (SI) < −2.82) and 19 nM (SI < −2.42), respectively. FR4 and FR5 showed the most potent hMAO-B inhibitory activity, with IC50 of 18 nM and 15 nM (SI > 2.74 and SI > 2.82). Docking calculations and molecular dynamic simulations were performed to elucidate the selectivity preference and SAR profiles.
Novel Isoxazolidine and γ-Lactam Analogues of Homonucleosides
Authors: Piotrowska Dorota G. , Głowacka Iwona E. , Schols Dominique , Snoeck Robert , Andrei Graciela , Gotkowska Joanna
Published: November 2019

Homonucleoside analogues cis-16 and trans-17 having a (5-methoxycarbonyl)isoxazolidine framework were synthesized via the 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition of nucleobase-derived nitrones with methyl acrylate. Hydrogenolysis of the isoxazolidines containing thymine, dihydrouracil, theophylline and adenine moieties efficiently led to the formation of the respective γ-lactam analogues. γ-Lactam analogues having 5-bromouracil and 5-chlorouracil fragments were synthesized by treatment of uracil-containing γ-lactams with NBS and NCS. Isoxazolidine and γ-lactam analogues of homonucleosides obtained herein were evaluated for activity against a broad range of DNA and RNA viruses. None of the compounds that were tested exhibited antiviral or cytotoxic activity at concentrations up to 100 µM. The cytostatic activities of all compounds toward nine cancerous cell lines was tested. γ-Lactams trans-15e (Cl-Ura) and cis-15h (Theo) appeared the most active toward pancreatic adenocarcinoma cells (Capan-1), showing IC50 values 21.5 and 18.2 µM, respectively. Isoxazolidine cis-15e (Cl-Ura) inhibited the proliferation of colorectal carcinoma (HCT-116).