bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Process Parameters on Deposition Properties of Functionally Graded STS 316/Fe Manufactured by Laser Direct Metal Deposition
Authors: Nam Sangwoo , Cho Heewon , Kim Cheolhee , Kim Young-Min
Published: August 2018

Stainless steel 316 (STS316)/Fe functionally graded materials were fabricated by direct energy deposition (DED) method using laser as a heat source. The feeding amount of the mixed powder was evaluated and the powder feeding condition was optimized through the section evaluation. The reliability of the powder feed was evaluated by regression analysis, and it was confirmed through the energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS) analysis and X-ray diffractometer (XRD) that the graded functional material of the designed composition was manufactured. Defects and microstructures were analyzed by scanning electron microscope (SEM).
Effect of an Electrically-Conducting Wall on Transient Magnetohydrodynamic Flow in a Continuous-Casting Mold with an Electromagnetic Brake
Authors: Liu Zhongqiu , Vakhrushev Alexander , Wu Menghuai , Karimi-Sibaki Ebrahim , Kharicha Abdellah , Ludwig Andreas , Li Baokuan
Published: August 2018

Large eddy simulation (LES) of transient magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) turbulent flow under a single-ruler electromagnetic brake (EMBr) in a laboratory-scale, continuous-casting mold is presented. The influence of different electrically-conductive boundary conditions on the MHD flow and electromagnetic field was studied, considering two different wall boundary conditions: insulating and conducting. Both the transient and time-averaged horizontal velocities predicted by the LES model agree well with the measurements of the ultrasound Doppler velocimetry (UDV) probes. Q-criterion was used to visualize the characteristics of the three-dimensional turbulent eddy structure in the mold. The turbulent flow can be suppressed by both configurations of the experiment’s wall (electrically-insulated and conducting walls). The shedding of small-scale vortices due to the Kelvin–Helmholtz instability from the shear at the jet boundary was observed. For the electrically-insulated walls, the flow was more unstable and changed with low-frequency oscillations. However, the time interval of the changeover was flexible. For the electrically-conducting walls, the low-frequency oscillations of the jets were well suppressed; a stable double-roll flow pattern was generated. Electrically-conducting walls can dramatically increase the induced current density and electromagnetic force; hence they contribute to stabilizing the MHD turbulent flow.
Removal Mechanism of Microscale Non-Metallic Inclusions in a Tundish with Multi-Hole-Double-Baffles
Authors: Jin Yan , Dong Xiaosen , Yang Fu , Cheng Changgui , Li Yang , Wang Wei
Published: August 2018

To effectively remove microscale inclusions in the tundish, the Multi-Hole-Double-Baffles (MHDB), a novel flow control device in the tundish for continuous casting, was developed. The hole array mode of the MHDB will directly affect the trajectories of the inclusions. The effect and removal mechanism of the inclusions with sizes of 1 µm to 50 μm in the tundish with MHDB were studied by numerical simulation. The hole array mode of MHDB could affect the inclusions’ trajectories and distribution, and the mechanism underlying the effect of the MHDB was investigated using the discrete phase model (DPM). A 1:2.5 physical model was built to verify the accuracy of numerical simulation. The results showed that micro-inclusions were primarily driven by the drag force exerted by the molten steel flow, micro-inclusion trajectories followed the molten steel streamlines almost exactly, but buoyancy still played a role in the removal of the micro-inclusions near the molten steel surface; the hole array mode affected the trajectories of the micro-inclusions and controlled and decelerated the flow of molten steel, increasing the residence time of the molten steel flow a the value that is 15 times larger than the theoretical value; and “upper-in-lower-out” type MHDB showed the most efficient removal of micro-inclusions, with the removal rate being increased by 13–49% compared to the removal rates for the other type MHDB. The results of numerical simulation were well verified by physical simulation.
Oxidation Behavior of Non-Modified and Rhodium- or Palladium-Modified Aluminide Coatings Deposited on CMSX-4 Superalloy
Authors: Zagula-Yavorska Maryana
Published: August 2018

Rhodium-modified as well as palladium-modified and non-modified aluminide coatings on CMSX-4 Ni-based superalloy were oxidized in air atmosphere at 1100 °C. Uncoated substrate of CMSX-4 superalloy was also oxidized. The microstructure of coatings before oxidation consists of two layers: an additive and an interdiffusion one. The NiAl intermetallic phase was found in the microstructure of non-modified coatings, while the (Ni,Rh)Al intermetallic phase was observed in the microstructure of rhodium-modified aluminide coatings before oxidation. The (Ni,Pd)Al phase of palladium-modified aluminide coatings in the additive layer was observed before oxidation. The microstructure of the oxidized non-modified coatings consists of the γ’-Ni3Al phase. The oxide layer (10 µm thick) consists of the NiAl2O4 phase and porous Ni-rich oxide. The oxide layers (5 µm thick) formed on the surface of rhodium or palladium-modified coatings consist of the α-Al2O3 phase and the top layer of the NiAl2O4 phase. Al-depleted (30 at. %) β-NiAl grains besides the γ’-Ni3Al phase were found in the rhodium-modified coating, while only the γ’-Ni3Al phase region was revealed in the palladium-modified coating, Rhodium-modified coatings with small rhodium content (0.5 µm rhodium layer thick) can be an alternative for palladium-modified ones with bigger palladium content (3 µm thick palladium layer).
Microstructure-Tensile Properties Relationship and Austenite Stability of a Nb-Mo Micro-Alloyed Medium-Mn TRIP Steel
Authors: Liu Chunquan , Peng Qichun , Xue Zhengliang , Deng Mingming , Wang Shijie , Yang Chengwei
Published: August 2018

This study investigated the microstructure–tensile properties relationship and the retained austenite room temperature stability of a Nb and Mo micro-alloyed medium manganese transformation induced plasticity (TRIP) steel. A number of findings were obtained. Most importantly, the steel after being processed by quenching and tempering (Q & T) exhibited excellent tensile properties, i.e., the strength of 878–1373 MPa, the ductility of 18–40% Mo, and Nb microalloying served to control the fraction of retained austenite and to improve tensile strength by fine grain strengthening. Excellent tensile properties were attributable to the large amount of retained austenite which produced a discontinuous TRIP effect. This effect led to the production a large amount of martensite which relieved the stress concentration, contributing to the coordinated deformation between the phases and thus improving the deformability of the steel. Additionally, the differences in Mn and C contents led to varying degrees of austenite stability and the length of the Lüders band decreased as the intercritical annealing temperature increased. The micro-alloyed medium manganese steel experimented on our study showed considerable improvement in tensile properties in comparison with the 5Mn-0.1C medium manganese steel in previous studies.
Vibration Fatigue Analysis of Carbon Steel Coil Spring under Various Road Excitations
Authors: Kong Yat Sheng , Abdullah Shahrum , Schramm Dieter , Omar Mohd Zaidi , Haris Sallehuddin Mohd.
Published: August 2018

This paper presents the evaluation of frequency-based approach predicted spring using acceleration signals that were collected from various road conditions. Random loadings in the forms of acceleration are nominal and more flexible for vehicle components fatigue assessment. In this analysis, the strain time history of the spring and acceleration signals of the suspension strut was measured from three different road conditions. The acceleration signals were then transformed into power spectra density (PSD). PSD cycle counter, like Lalanne, Dirlik, and narrow band approach, was applied to obtain equivalent load cycles. The stress response was obtained through having the equivalent load cycles with a spring modal frequency response function (FRF) and different stress criterion, like absolute maximum principal and critical plane approaches. Then, the stress response was used to predict the spring fatigue life using stress-life (S-N) approach. The results revealed that the harshest road condition was the rural road where the spring with fatigue life of 4.47 × 107 blocks to failure was obtained. The strain predicted fatigue life was used to validate the frequency-based predictions using a conservative approach. It was found that the Dirlik approach has shown the closest results to the strain life approach, which suggested that the Dirlik approach could be used for spring fatigue life prediction with the acceptable accuracy.
Effect of Plasma Nitriding on the Creep and Tensile Properties of the Ti-6Al-4V Alloy
Authors: Almeida Gisele F. C. , Couto Antônio A. , Reis Danieli A. P. , Massi Marcos , Da Silva Sobrinho Argemiro S. , De Lima Nelson B.
Published: August 2018

This work aimed to enhance the creep resistance of Ti-6Al-4V alloy treated by plasma nitriding. The nitriding was performed on specimens with a Widmanstätten microstructure for four hours at 690 °C under a gas atmosphere containing Ar:N2:H2 (0.455:0.455:0.090). X-ray diffraction analysis showed that the ε-Ti2N and δ-TiN formed on the nitrided sample, in addition to the α-Ti and β-Ti matrix phases. The layer thickness of this sample was about 1 µm. Hot tensile tests were performed in the temperature range of 500 to 700 °C on nitrided and non-nitrided samples, which indicated an increased strength of the nitrided samples. The same temperature range was used for the creep tests in a stress range of 125 to 319 MPa. The plasma-nitrided samples exhibited better creep resistance when compared to the untreated samples. This result was demonstrated by the decreased secondary creep rate and the increased final creep time. This improvement in the creep resistance appeared to be associated with the formation of the nitrided layer, which worked as a barrier to oxygen diffusion into the material and due to the formation of a surface residual compressive stress.
Nanoscale Twinned Ti-44Al-4Nb-1.5Mo-0.007Y Alloy Promoted by High Temperature Compression with High Strain Rate
Authors: Guo Wenqi , Jiang Haitao , Tian Shiwei , Zhang Guihua
Published: August 2018

In order to investigate the dynamic mechanical behavior of TiAl alloys and promote their application in the aerospace industry, uniaxial compression of Ti-44Al-4Nb-1.5Mo-0.007Y (at %) alloy was conducted at a temperature range from 25 to 400 °C with a strain rate of 2000 s‒1. Twinning is found to be the dominating deformation mechanism of the γ phase at all temperatures, and the addition of Nb and Mo has a chemical impact on the alloy and reduces the stacking fault energy of the γ phase. The decreased stacking fault energy increases the twinnability; thus, the deformation is dominated by twinning, which increases the dynamic strength of the alloy. With the temperature increasing from 25 to 400 °C, the average spacing of twins in the γ phase increases from 32.4 ± 2.9 to 88.1 ± 9.2 nm. The increased temperature impedes the continuous movement of partial dislocations and finally results in an increased twin spacing in the γ phase.
Microstructure and Wear Resistance of Fe-Cr-Mo-Co-C-B Amorphous Composite Coatings Synthesized by Laser Cladding
Authors: Hou Xiangchun , Du Dong , Wang Kaiming , Hong Yuxiang , Chang Baohua
Published: August 2018

A novel amorphous composite coating was synthesized successfully on 3Cr13 stainless steel by laser cladding Fe-Cr-Mo-Co-C-B amorphous alloy powder. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to analyze the microstructure, composition, and phase structure of the coatings. Hardness and friction wear testers were used to analyze the hardness and wear resistance of the coatings. Results show that the cladding layer has an amorphous/crystalline composite structure, which is composed of a columnar grain region at the bottom and an amorphous region in the upper layer. The solute redistribution between the coating and the substrate in the bonding zone and the lower cooling rate at bottom account for the occurrence of crystallization. The highest hardness of the cladding layer is 1179 HV0.5, which is about 6 times that of the 3Cr13 stainless steel substrate (200 HV0.5). The cladding layer greatly improves the wear resistance of the substrate with a much lower coefficient of friction and wear mass loss compared with the substrate.
3D-Printed Biosensor Arrays for Medical Diagnostics
Authors: Sharafeldin Mohamed , Jones Abby , Rusling James
Published: August 2018

While the technology is relatively new, low-cost 3D printing has impacted many aspects of human life. 3D printers are being used as manufacturing tools for a wide variety of devices in a spectrum of applications ranging from diagnosis to implants to external prostheses. The ease of use, availability of 3D-design software and low cost has made 3D printing an accessible manufacturing and fabrication tool in many bioanalytical research laboratories. 3D printers can print materials with varying density, optical character, strength and chemical properties that provide the user with a vast array of strategic options. In this review, we focus on applications in biomedical diagnostics and how this revolutionary technique is facilitating the development of low-cost, sensitive, and often geometrically complex tools. 3D printing in the fabrication of microfluidics, supporting equipment, and optical and electronic components of diagnostic devices is presented. Emerging diagnostics systems using 3D bioprinting as a tool to incorporate living cells or biomaterials into 3D printing is also reviewed.
Multi-Stage Evolution of Gold-Bearing Hydrothermal Quartz Veins at the Mokrsko Gold Deposit (Czech Republic) Based on Cathodoluminescence, Spectroscopic, and Trace Elements Analyses
Authors: Wertich Vojtěch , Leichmann Jaromír , Dosbaba Marek , Götze Jens
Published: August 2018

We performed a detailed analysis of hydrothermal quartz at the Mokrsko gold deposit (Čelina, Mokrsko-East, and Mokrsko-West deposits). Twenty-one samples were studied by scanning electron microscopy cathodoluminescence (CL) imagining, CL emission spectra and trace elements were measured on six selected samples. Four quartz growth generations Q1 to Q4 were described. Homogeneous early blue CL Q1 with initial emission spectra at 380 and 500 nm was observed at the Čelina deposit with typical titanium concentrations in the range of 20–50 ppm. Hydrothermal quartz at Mokrsko-West, which also includes early Q1, late subhedral faces of yellow CL Q2, and microfissures of greenish CL Q3 (both 570 nm), is characterized by titanium depletion. The titanium concentration is comparable to previous studies of crystallization temperatures proving titanium concentration in quartz as a good geothermal indicator. Q4, developed in microfissures only at Čelina, has no visual CL effect. Mokrsko-West is specific in comparison to Mokrsko-East and Čelina by germanium enrichments in hydrothermal quartz (up to 17 ppm) and the presence of fluorite. Tectonic (sheeted veinlets system, regional tectonic setting) and geochemical (germanium in quartz, the presence of fluorite) characteristics of the quartz veins link the late mineralization stages at the Mokrsko-West deposit to the temporally related Blatná intrusive suite.
Geochemical Characterization, Geochronology, and Geodynamic Implications of Grenville Rare Earths Bearing Syenites, Haut-Saint-Maurice, QC, Canada
Authors: Côté Gabriel , Moukhsil Abdelali , Constantin Marc , David Jean
Published: August 2018

The syenites in the western part of the Grenville Province in Quebec have been known since the 1990s, but few studies have been carried out on them. Over the last three years, a mapping project carried out by the Ministère de l’Énergie et des Ressources naturelles has revealed the presence of several rare earth element (REE)–bearing syenitic intrusions in this area. In this paper, we present a geodynamic model for their formation based on geochemical, thermobarometric, and geochronological data. The intrusions were emplaced between 1038 +15/−13 Ma and 1009 ± 3 Ma. The syenites can be divided into two groups: (1) an older, REE-bearing group associated with a volcanic arc and (2) a younger group with lower REE contents associated with an anorogenic event. Formation temperatures were between 898 and 1005 °C, and pressures were between 2 and 10 kbar. This model involving two intrusive periods is in conflict with the model of a large, hot, long-duration collisional orogen proposed by Rivers et al. (2009) but is consistent with more recent studies.
Synthesis of 4A Zeolite from Kaolinite-Type Pyrite Flotation Tailings (KPFT)
Authors: Cui Yating , Zheng Yu , Wang Weiqing
Published: August 2018

As a solid waste, kaolinite-type pyrite flotation tailings (KPFT) are a type of low-quality kaolin that contain impurities, such as iron and titanium. In this study, KPFT were calcined at 800 °C for two hours. The calcined production (CKPFT), which is mainly metakaolin, was used as the silicon and aluminum source to synthesize 4A zeolite (Na12[(AlO2)12(SiO2)12]·27H2O) via hydrothermal synthesis. The optimal hydrothermal synthesis conditions were determined from X-ray diffraction phase analysis, relative crystallinity (RC), and cation ion exchange capacity (CEC). The optimal hydrothermal synthesis conditions were determined to be a ratio of 5 g CKPFT, 6.5 g NaOH, 65 mL H2O, crystallization temperature 110 °C, and crystallization time of three hours. Under the optimal hydrothermal synthesis conditions, the RC and CEC of the synthesized 4A zeolite were 40.77% and 210.32 mg CaCO3·g−1, respectively. Further characterizations including pore size distribution, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray, thermogravimetry-differential scanning calorimetry, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy were performed. The results revealed that impurities in KPFT do not affect the synthesis of 4A zeolite. The surface morphology of the synthesized 4A zeolite was composed of chamfered-edged cubes with a particle size of one to three μm that was thermally stable up to approximately 890 °C.
Quantitative Determination of Thiabendazole in Soil Extracts by Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Nie Pengcheng , Dong Tao , Xiao Shupei , Lin Lei , He Yong , Qu Fangfang
Published: August 2018

Thiabendazole (TBZ) is widely used in sclerotium blight, downy mildew as well as root rot disease prevention and treatment in plant. The indiscriminate use of TBZ causes the excess pesticide residues in soil, which leads to soil hardening and environmental pollution. Therefore, it is important to accurately monitor whether the TBZ residue in soil exceeds the standard. For this study, density functional theory (DFT) was used to theoretically analyze the molecular structure of TBZ, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) were used to enhance the detection signal of surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) and the TBZ residue in red soil extracts was quantitatively determined by SERS. As a result, the theoretical Raman peaks of TBZ calculated by DFT were basically consistent with the measured results. Moreover, 784, 1008, 1270, 1328, 1406 and 1576 cm−1 could be determined as the TBZ characteristic peaks in soil and the limits of detection (LOD) could reach 0.1 mg/L. Also, there was a good linear correlation between the intensity of Raman peaks and TBZ concentration in soil (784 cm−1: y = 672.26x + 5748.4, R2 = 0.9948; 1008 cm−1: y = 1155.4x + 8740.2, R2 = 0.9938) and the limit of quantification (LOQ) of these two linear models can reach 1 mg/L. The relative standard deviation (RSD) ranged from 1.36% to 8.02% and the recovery was ranging from 95.90% to 116.65%. In addition, the 300–1700 cm−1 SERS of TBZ were analyzed by the partial least squares (PLS) and backward interval partial least squares (biPLS). Also, the prediction accuracy of TBZ in soil (Rp2 = 0.9769, RMSEP = 0.556 mg/L, RPD = 5.97) was the highest when the original spectra were pretreated by standard normal variation (SNV) and then modeled by PLS. In summary, the TBZ in red soil extracts could be quantitatively determined by SERS based on AuNPs, which was beneficial to provide a new, rapid and accurate scheme for the detection of pesticide residues in soil.
Modified Nigella Sativa Seeds as a Novel Efficient Natural Adsorbent for Removal of Methylene Blue Dye
Authors: Rakass Souad , Mohmoud Ahmed , Oudghiri Hassani Hicham , Abboudi Mostafa , Kooli Fethi , Al Wadaani Fahd
Published: August 2018

The aim of this work was to investigate the use of modified nigella sativa seeds (MNS) for removing of methylene blue (MB) dye from aqueous solution. The nigella sativa (NS) seeds have been pre-treated at different temperatures and periods of time. The maximum adsorption of MB was achieved using NS sample washed with distilled water pre-heated at 65 °C for one hour, then ground to 250 µm particle size (MNS-4). Different parameters were modified to optimize the removal process of MB using MNS-4, such as contact times, temperatures, initial dye concentrations, adsorbent doses, and pH of the solution. MNS-4 exhibited a removal efficiency of 99% for initial dye concentrations greater than 800 ppm at pH value of 11. The kinetic study indicated that the removal process follows the pseudo second order model. The removal was spontaneous, endothermic and favorable, and this was indicated by the thermodynamic study. Maximum removal capacity was 194 mg/g as deduced from Langmuir model. The removal efficiency was maintained after four recycle uses. The modified nigella sativa seeds were characterized before, and after adsorption and regeneration by Fourier Transform infrared (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The data suggested that nigella sativa seeds could be a prospective agent for removing MB from wastewater.
Flavonoids, Sterols and Lignans from Cochlospermum vitifolium and Their Relationship with Its Liver Activity
Authors: Aguilar-Guadarrama A. Berenice , Rios María Yolanda
Published: August 2018

The sterols β-sitostenone (1), stigmast-4,6,8(14),22-tetraen-3-one (2), β-sitosterol (3) and stigmasterol (4), the aromatic derivatives antiarol (5) and gentisic acid (6), the phenylpropanes coniferyl alcohol (7), epoxyconiferyl alcohol (8) and ferulic acid (9), the apocarotenoid vomifoliol (10), the flavonoids naringenin (11), 7,4′-dimethoxytaxifolin (7,4′-dimethoxydihydroquercetin, 12), aromadendrin (13), kaempferol (14), taxifolin (dihydroquercetin, 15), prunin (naringenin-7-O-β-d-glucoside, 16), populnin (kaempferol-7-O-β-d-glucoside, 17) and senecin (aromadendrin-7-O-β-d-glucoside, 18) and the lignans kobusin (19) and pinoresinol (20), were isolated from the dried bark of Cochlospermum vitifolium Spreng (Cochlospermaceae), a Mexican medicinal plant used to treat jaundice, liver ailments and hepatitis C. Fourteen of these compounds were isolated for the first time from this plant and from the Cochlospermum genus. Compounds 3–4, 6–7, 9–11, 13–17 and 20 have previously exhibited diverse beneficial liver activities. The presence of these compounds in C. vitifolium correlates with the use of this Mexican medicinal plant.
Synthesis of Novel 1,4-Naphthoquinones Possessing Indole Scaffolds Using In(OTf)3 in Solvent-Free Conditions
Authors: Yang Xiaojuan , Wu Liqiang
Published: August 2018

Novel 1,4-naphthoquinones possessing indole scaffolds were prepared by the reaction of 2-hydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone-substituted salicylic aldehydes and indoles using In(OTf)3 as a catalyst. The method has the advantages of simple operation, mild reaction conditions, and friendly environment.
Internalization of Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles Is Cytotoxic for H9c2 Rat Cardiomyoblasts
Authors: Huerta-García Elizabeth , Zepeda-Quiroz Iván , Sánchez-Barrera Helen , Colín-Val Zaira , Alfaro-Moreno Ernesto , Ramos-Godinez María del Pilar , López-Marure Rebeca
Published: August 2018

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) are widely used in industry and daily life. TiO2 NPs can penetrate into the body, translocate from the lungs into the circulation and come into contact with cardiac cells. In this work, we evaluated the toxicity of TiO2 NPs on H9c2 rat cardiomyoblasts. Internalization of TiO2 NPs and their effect on cell proliferation, viability, oxidative stress and cell death were assessed, as well as cell cycle alterations. Cellular uptake of TiO2 NPs reduced metabolic activity and cell proliferation and increased oxidative stress by 19-fold measured as H2DCFDA oxidation. TiO2 NPs disrupted the plasmatic membrane integrity and decreased the mitochondrial membrane potential. These cytotoxic effects were related with changes in the distribution of cell cycle phases resulting in necrotic death and autophagy. These findings suggest that TiO2 NPs exposure represents a potential health risk, particularly in the development of cardiovascular diseases via oxidative stress and cell death.
16-Hydroxycleroda-3,13-dien-15,16-olide and N-Methyl-Actinodaphine Potentiate Tamoxifen-Induced Cell Death in Breast Cancer
Authors: Velmurugan Bharath Kumar , Wang Po-Chih , Weng Ching-Feng
Published: August 2018

In this study, we investigated whether 16-hydroxycleroda-3,13-dien-15,16-olide (HCD) and N-methyl-actinodaphine (MA) could sensitize breast cancer cells to Tamoxifen (TMX) treatment. MA or HCD alone or in combination with TMX dose-dependently inhibited MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cell growth, with a more potent inhibition on MDA-MB 231 cells. Furthermore, this novel combination significantly induced S and G2/M cell cycle phase in MDA-MB 231 than MCF-7 cells. Further determination of the apoptotic induction showed that MA or HCD and TMX combination inhibited MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cancer cells by upregulating Bax and by downregulating Bcl-2 mRNA and protein expression without altering Caspase-8 and Caspase-12 expression. These results suggest that MA or HCD pretreatment may potentiate the anti-tumor effect of tamoxifen on breast cancer.
Synthesis, Molecular Docking and Anticancer Activity of Diflunisal Derivatives as Cyclooxygenase Enzyme Inhibitors
Authors: Coşkun Göknil Pelin , Djikic Teodora , Hayal Taha Bartu , Türkel Nezaket , Yelekçi Kemal , Şahin Fikrettin , Küçükgüzel Ş. Güniz
Published: August 2018

Cyclooxygenase enzymes play a vital role in inflammatory pathways in the human body. Apart from their relation with inflammation, the additional involvement of COX-2 enzyme with cancer activity was recently discovered. In some cancer types the level of COX-2 enzyme is increased indicating that this enzyme could be a suitable target for cancer therapy. Based on these findings, we have synthesized some new diflunisal thiosemicarbazides and 1,2,4-triazoles and tested them against androgen-independent prostate adenocarcinoma (PC-3), colon carcinoma (HCT-116), human breast cancer (T47D), breast carcinoma (MCF7) and human embryonic kidney (HEK-293) cell lines. Specifically, the diflunisal and thiosemicarbazide functionality are combined during the synthesis of original compounds anticipating a potency enhancement. Compounds 6, 10, 15 and 16 did not show cytotoxic effects for the HEK293 cell line. Among them, compounds 15 and 16 demonstrated anticancer activity for the breast cancer cell line T47D, whereas compounds 6 and 10 which are thiosemicarbazide derivatives displayed anti-tumourigenic activity against the PC-3 cell line, consistent with the literature. However, no activity was observed for the HCT-116 cancer cell line with the tested thiosemicarbazide derivatives. Only compound 16 displayed activity against the HCT-116 cell line. Therefore, it was speculated that the diflunisal and thiosemicarbazide functionalities potentiate anticancer activity on prostate cancer and the thiosemicarbazide functionality decreases the anticancer activity of diflunisal on colon cancer cell lines. In order to gain insight into the anticancer activity and COX-2 inhibition, molecular docking studies were carried out for COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes utilizing the newly synthesized compounds 15, and 16. Both 15 and 16 showed high selectivity and affinity toward COX-2 isozyme over COX-1, which is in agreement with the experimental results.
The Chemical Reactivity of Anthocyanins and Its Consequences in Food Science and Nutrition
Authors: Dangles Olivier , Fenger Julie-Anne
Published: August 2018

Owing to their specific pyrylium nucleus (C-ring), anthocyanins express a much richer chemical reactivity than the other flavonoid classes. For instance, anthocyanins are weak diacids, hard and soft electrophiles, nucleophiles, prone to developing π-stacking interactions, and bind hard metal ions. They also display the usual chemical properties of polyphenols, such as electron donation and affinity for proteins. In this review, these properties are revisited through a variety of examples and discussed in relation to their consequences in food and in nutrition with an emphasis on the transformations occurring upon storage or thermal treatment and on the catabolism of anthocyanins in humans, which is of critical importance for interpreting their effects on health.
Protective Effects of Nintedanib against Polyhexamethylene Guanidine Phosphate-Induced Lung Fibrosis in Mice
Authors: Kim Hyeon-Young , Kim Min-Seok , Kim Sung-Hwan , Joen Doin , Lee Kyuhong
Published: August 2018

Nintedanib (NDN), a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, has been shown to have anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fibrotic effects in several reports. We investigated the protective effects of NDN against polyhexamethylene guanidine phosphate (PHMG)-induced lung fibrosis in mice. The following three experimental groups were evaluated: (1) vehicle control; (2) PHMG (1.1 mg/kg); and (3) PHMG & NDN (60 mg/kg). PHMG induced pulmonary inflammation and fibrosis by intratracheal instillation in mice. In contrast, NDN treatment effectively alleviated the PHMG induced lung injury, and attenuated the number of total cells and inflammatory cells in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, including the fibrotic histopathological changes, and also reduced the hydroxyproline content. NDN also significantly decreased the expression of inflammatory cytokines and fibrotic factors, and the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome in lung tissues. These results suggest that NDN may mitigate the inflammatory response and development of pulmonary fibrosis in the lungs of mice treated with PHMG.
Curating Inclusive Cities through Food and Art
Authors: Hulbert Tammy Wong
Published: August 2018

Flavours of Glenroy (2013–4) was an action research project where artists imagined mobile edible gardens as a way to connect and engage with locals through project presentation and execution. As a socially engaged art project, it focused on developing ways to connect the mobile, diverse and transforming community of Glenroy, Victoria, Australia. The transnational, Australian dream suburb, reflecting the fluid and globalizing conditions of our cities, was emphasized through the strategy of growing and distributing plants using a mobile system that aligned with the mobility and diversity of the suburb. The project emphasized how social relations, encouraged through art, has the capacity to transform public spaces, providing a platform to introduce new voices and narratives of a community and encourage inclusive participation in sustainable citizenship.
Osteogenic Effect of ZnO-Mesoporous Glasses Loaded with Osteostatin
Authors: Pérez Rebeca , Sanchez-Salcedo Sandra , Lozano Daniel , Heras Clara , Esbrit Pedro , Vallet-Regí María , Salinas Antonio J.
Published: August 2018

Mesoporous Bioactive Glasses (MBGs) are a family of bioceramics widely investigated for their putative clinical use as scaffolds for bone regeneration. Their outstanding textural properties allow for high bioactivity when compared with other bioactive materials. Moreover, their great pore volumes allow these glasses to be loaded with a wide range of biomolecules to stimulate new bone formation. In this study, an MBG with a composition, in mol%, of 80% SiO2–15% CaO–5% P2O5 (Blank, BL) was compared with two analogous glasses containing 4% and 5% of ZnO (4ZN and 5ZN) before and after impregnation with osteostatin, a C-terminal peptide from a parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP107-111). Zn2+ ions were included in the glass for their bone growth stimulator properties, whereas osteostatin was added for its osteogenic properties. Glasses were characterized, and their cytocompatibility investigated, in pre-osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cell cultures. The simultaneous additions of osteostatin and Zn2+ ions provoked enhanced MC3T3-E1 cell viability and a higher differentiation capacity, compared with either raw BL or MBGs supplemented only with osteostatin or Zn2+. These in vitro results show that osteostatin enhances the osteogenic effect of Zn2+-enriched glasses, suggesting the potential of this combined approach in bone tissue engineering applications.
Microfabrication of Net Shape Zirconia/Alumina Nanocomposite Micro Parts
Authors: Hassanin Hany , Ahmed El-Sayed Mahmoud , ElShaer Amr , Essa Khamis , Jiang Kyle
Published: August 2018

Recently, there are growing demands in manufacturing of net shape micro parts for wide range of applications due to the increasing interest in miniaturization. In this paper, the fabrication of tetragonal phase zirconia/alumina (YSZ/Al2O3) nanocomposite micro-parts with high quality is presented. The fabrication process is based on soft lithography and colloidal powder dispersion. Experimental results showed that by optimizing the soft lithography and the dispersion process, it was possible to produce high-resolution micro-parts with well dispersed alumina. The X-ray diffraction results had confirmed the important role of the alumina particles in eliminating the emergence of monoclinic phase while the microstructures reveal a pure tetragonal phase. In addition, the sintered YSZ/Al2O3 micro parts achieved micro hardness with 20% superior to the pure YSZ sintered micro-parts with the addition of 5% alumina.
High-Aspect Ratio β-Ga2O3 Nanorods via Hydrothermal Synthesis
Authors: Bae Hyun Jeong , Yoo Tae Hee , Yoon Youngbin , Lee In Gyu , Kim Jong Pil , Cho Byung Jin , Hwang Wan Sik
Published: August 2018

High-aspect ratio β-Ga2O3 nanorods consisting of prism-like crystals were formed using gallium oxyhydroxide and ammonia hydroxide via a hydrothermal synthesis followed by the subsequent calcination process. The formation of high-aspect ratio β-Ga2O3 nanorods was attributed to the oriented attachment mechanism that was present during the hydrothermal synthesis. A field-effect transistor was fabricated using the high-aspect ratio β-Ga2O3 nanorod, and it exhibited the typical charge transfer properties of an n-type semiconductor. This facile approach to forming high-aspect ratio nanorods without any surfactants or additives can broaden the science of β-Ga2O3 and expedite the integration of one-dimensional β-Ga2O3 into future electronics, sensors, and optoelectronics.
Facile Ag-Film Based Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy Using DNA Molecular Switch for Ultra-Sensitive Mercury Ions Detection
Authors: Liu Xiujie , Liu Mengmeng , Lu Yudong , Wu Changji , Xu Yunchao , Lin Duo , Lu Dechan , Zhou Ting , Feng Shangyuan
Published: August 2018

Heavy metal pollution has long been the focus of attention because of its serious threat to human health and the environment. Surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) has shown great potential for metal detection owing to many advantages, including, requiring fewer samples, its minimal damage to specimen, and its high sensitivity. In this work, we proposed a simple and distinctive method, based on SERS, using facile silver film (Ag-film) combined with a DNA molecular switch, which allowed for the highly specific detection of heavy metal mercury ions (Hg2+). When in the presence of Hg2+ ions, the signals from Raman probes attach to single-stranded DNA, which will be dramatically enhanced due to the specific structural change of DNA strands—resulting from the interaction between Hg2+ ions and DNA bases. This SERS sensor could achieve an ultralow limit of detection (1.35 × 10−15 M) for Hg2+ detection. In addition, we applied this SERS sensor to detect Hg2+ in real blood samples. The results suggested that this SERS platform could be a promising alternative tool for Hg2+ detection in clinical, environmental, and food inspection.
Effect of Temperature on the Physical, Electro-Chemical and Adsorption Properties of Carbon Micro-Spheres Using Hydrothermal Carbonization Process
Authors: Chowdhury Zaira , Krishnan Bagavathi , Sagadevan Suresh , Rafique Rahman , Hamizi Nor , Abdul Wahab Yasmin , Khan Ali , Johan Rafie , Al-douri Y. , Kazi Salim , Tawab Shah Syed
Published: August 2018

This research deals with the effect of the temperature on the physical, thermal, electrochemical, and adsorption properties of the carbon micro-spheres using hydrothermal carbonization (HTC). Until recently, limited research has been conducted regarding the effects of delignification during the HTC process of biomass residues especially Dimocarpus longan. In this regard, lignin was first extracted from the lingo-cellulosic waste of Longan fruit peel (Dimocarpus longan). The holocellulose (HC) separated from lignin and raw biomass substrates (Longan fruit exocarp/peel powder, LFP) were carbonized at different temperatures using water as the green catalyst. Hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) was performed for both of the samples (LFP and HC) at 200 °C, 250 °C, and 300 °C for 24 h each. The surface morphological structures, the porosity, and the Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area of the prepared micro-spherical carbon were determined. The BET surface areas obtained for HC-based carbon samples were lower than that of the raw LFP based carbon samples. The carbon obtained was characterized using ultimate and proximate analyses. The surface morphological features and phase transformation of the synthesized micro-spherical carbon was characterized by a field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The results demonstrated that the extraction of lignin could significantly alter the end properties of the synthesized carbon sample. The carbon spheres derived from LFP showed a higher carbon content than the HC-based carbon. The absence of lignin in the holo-cellulose (HC) made it easy to disintegrate in comparison to the raw, LFP-based carbon samples during the HTC process. The carbonaceous samples (LFP-300 and HC-300) prepared at 300 °C were selected and their adsorption performance for Pb (II) cations was observed using Langmuir, Freundlich, and Temkin linear isotherm models. At 30 °C, the equilibrium data followed the Langmuir isotherm model more than the Freundlich and Temkin model for both the LFP-300 sample and the HC-300 sample. The potential of the synthesized carbon microspheres were further analyzed by thermodynamic characterizations of the adsorption equilibrium system.
Femtosecond Laser Produced Hydrophobic Hierarchical Structures on Additive Manufacturing Parts
Authors: Jiao Lishi , Chua Zhong Yang , Moon Seung Ki , Song Jie , Bi Guijun , Zheng Hongyu
Published: August 2018

With the recent expansion of additive manufacturing (AM) in industries, there is an intense need to improve the surface quality of AM parts. A functional surface with extreme wettability would explore the application of AM in medical implants and microfluid. In this research, we propose to superimpose the femtosecond (fs) laser induced period surface structures (LIPSS) in the nanoscale onto AM part surfaces with the micro structures that are fabricated in the AM process. A hierarchical structure that has a similar morphology to a lotus leaf surface is obtained by combining the advantages of liquid assisting fs laser processing and AM. A water contact angle (WCA) of 150° is suggested so that a super hydrophobic surface is achieved. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis indicate that both hierarchical structures and higher carbon content in the laser processed area are responsible for the super hydrophobicity.
Pollution Reduction in Throughflow from Vegetated and Non-Vegetated, Foam-Based Surfaces and Green Roofs
Authors: Mucha Sydney , Williamson Glenn , MacAvoy Stephen
Published: August 2018

The ability of foam-based unplanted and green surfaces (Aqualok™) to remove pollutants (total suspended solids (TSS), NO3, NH4, total organic carbon (TOC) and total phosphorus (TP)) from direct precipitation and roof runoff passing through the surfaces was assessed. The assessments were conducted using unplanted Aqualok™ and planted Aqualok™ roof panels and a bioswale Aqualok™ installed on two Fire and Emergency Medical Service Stations (FEMSs) in Washington, D.C., USA. During a three-year period, impacts on water chemistry were evaluated by examining overall averages as well as performance over time. Upon installation, all Aqualok™ surfaces released a “pulse” of TSS and NO3, which decreased over time. TP concentrations from the planted panels were elevated relative to conventional roof runoff throughout the study. TOC was generally higher for planted Aqualok™ compared to unplanted Aqualok™, and did not decrease over time. Excluding the three months post-installation, TSS in throughflow from planted and unplanted Aqualok™ surfaces was 88% and 90% lower, respectively, than in runoff from a conventional tar and gravel roof. No significant differences between green surface throughflow and conventional roof runoff for NO3 or NH4 were observed.
Home Enteral Nutrition: Towards a Standard of Care
Authors: Gramlich Leah , Hurt Ryan T. , Jin Jennifer , Mundi Manpreet S.
Published: August 2018

The purpose of this overview is to make the case for the establishment and publication of standards for home enteral nutrition (HEN) therapy in adult patients who require a long-term alternative to oral feeding. Overviews can provide a broad and often comprehensive summation of a topic area and, as such, have value for those coming to a subject for the first time. It will provide a broad summation, background and rationale, review specific considerations unique to HEN (tubes, products and supplies) and we describe a recent audit of seven HEN programs which highlights tube and process related challenges. Based on the overview of the literature and our experience with the audit we propose a way forward for best home enteral nutrition care.
Individualized Meal Replacement Therapy Improves Clinically Relevant Long-Term Glycemic Control in Poorly Controlled Type 2 Diabetes Patients
Authors: Kempf Kerstin , Röhling Martin , Niedermeier Katja , Gärtner Babette , Martin Stephan
Published: August 2018

Background Formula diets can improve glycemic control or can even induce remission in type 2 diabetes. We hypothesized that especially an individualized intense meal replacement by a low-carbohydrate formula diet with accompanied self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) contributes to long-term improvements in HbA1c, weight, and cardiometabolic risk factors in poorly controlled type 2 diabetes. Methods Type 2 diabetes patients were randomized into either a moderate group (M-group) with two meal replacements/day (n = 160) or a stringent group (S-group) with three meal replacements/day (n = 149) during the first week of intervention (1300–1500 kcal/day). Subsequently, both groups reintroduced a low-carbohydrate lunch based on individual adaption due to SMBG in weeks 2–4. After week 4, breakfast was reintroduced until week 12. During the follow-up period, all of the participants were asked to continue replacing one meal per day until the 52-weeks follow-up. Additionally, an observational control group (n = 100) remained in routine care. Parameters were compared at baseline, after 12 and 52 weeks within and between all of the groups. Results 321 participants (83%) completed the acute meal replacement phase after 12 weeks and 279 participants (72%) the whole intervention after 52 weeks. Both intervention groups achieved improvements in HbA1c, fasting blood glucose, blood pressure, and weight (all p < 0.001) within 12 weeks. However, these results were not significantly different between both of the intervention groups. The estimated treatment difference in HbA1c reduction was (mean (95% confidence interval [CI]) -0.10% with 95% CI [−0.40; 0.21] also (p > 0.05) (S-group vs. M-group) not statistically different after 12 weeks. However, only the S-group showed a clinically relevant improvement in HbA1c of −0.81% [−1.06; −0.55] (p < 0.001) after 52 weeks of follow-up, whereas HbA1c was not statistically different between the M- and control group. Conclusion Individualized meal replacement with SMBG demonstrated beneficial effects on HbA1c and cardiometabolic parameters in type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, the initiation of a weight loss program with one week of full meal replacement (three meals per day) resulted in a clinically relevant long-term HbA1c reduction, as compared to an observational control group that had standard care.
Food Consumption, Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Related to Salt in Urban Areas in Five Sub-Saharan African Countries
Authors: Leyvraz Magali , Mizéhoun-Adissoda Carmelle , Houinato Dismand , Moussa Baldé Naby , Damasceno Albertino , Viswanathan Bharathi , Amyunzu-Nyamongo Mary , Owuor Jared , Chiolero Arnaud , Bovet Pascal
Published: August 2018

High salt intake is a major risk factor of hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Improving knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to salt intake in the general population is a key component of salt reduction strategies. The objective of this study was to describe and compare the KAP of adults related to salt in urban areas of five countries in sub-Saharan Africa. The survey included 588 participants aged 25 to 65 years who were selected using convenience samples in the urban areas of Benin, Guinea, Kenya, Mozambique, and Seychelles. Socio-demographic and food consumption were assessed using a structured closed-ended questionnaire administered by survey officers. Height, weight, and blood pressure were measured. Food consumption varied largely between countries. Processed foods high in salt, such as processed meat, cheese, pizzas, and savory snacks were consumed rather infrequently in all the countries, but salt-rich foods, such as soups or bread and salty condiments, were consumed frequently in all countries. The majority of the participants knew that high salt intake can cause health problems (85%) and thought that it is important to limit salt intake (91%). However, slightly over half (56%) of the respondents regularly tried to limit their salt intake while only 8% of the respondents thought that they consumed too much salt. Salt and salty condiments were added most of the time during cooking (92% and 64%, respectively) but rarely at the table (11%). These findings support the need for education campaigns to reduce salt added during cooking and for strategies to reduce salt content in selected manufactured foods in the region.