bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel Insight in Idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (iNPH) Biomarker Discovery in CSF
Authors: Torretta Enrica , Arosio Beatrice , Barbacini Pietro , Capitanio Daniele , Rossi Paolo Dionigi , Moriggi Manuela , Clerici Mario , Mari Daniela , Cesari Matteo , Gelfi Cecilia
Published: July 2021

Idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) is a potentially reversible neurological disease, causing motor and cognitive dysfunction and dementia. iNPH and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) share similar molecular characteristics, including amyloid deposition, t-tau and p-tau dysregulation; however, the disease is under-diagnosed and under-treated. The aim was to identify a panel of sphingolipids and proteins in CSF to diagnose iNPH at onset compared to aged subjects with cognitive integrity (C) and AD patients by adopting multiple reaction monitoring mass spectrometry (MRM-MS) for sphingolipid quantitative assessment and advanced high-resolution liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) for proteomic analysis. The results indicated that iNPH are characterized by an increase in very long chains Cer C22:0, Cer C24:0 and Cer C24:1 and of acute-phase proteins, immunoglobulins and complement component fragments. Proteins involved in synaptic signaling, axogenesis, including BACE1, APP, SEZ6L and SEZ6L2; secretory proteins (CHGA, SCG3 and VGF); glycosylation proteins (POMGNT1 and DAG1); and proteins involved in lipid metabolism (APOH and LCAT) were statistically lower in iNPH. In conclusion, at the disease onset, several factors contribute to maintaining cell homeostasis, and the protective role of very long chains sphingolipids counteract overexpression of amyloidogenic and neurotoxic proteins. Monitoring specific very long chain Cers will improve the early diagnosis and can promote patient follow-up.
Tracing CVE Vulnerability Information to CAPEC Attack Patterns Using Natural Language Processing Techniques
Authors: Kanakogi Kenta , Washizaki Hironori , Fukazawa Yoshiaki , Ogata Shinpei , Okubo Takao , Kato Takehisa , Kanuka Hideyuki , Hazeyama Atsuo , Yoshioka Nobukazu
Published: July 2021

For effective vulnerability management, vulnerability and attack information must be collected quickly and efficiently. A security knowledge repository can collect such information. The Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) provides known vulnerabilities of products, while the Common Attack Pattern Enumeration and Classification (CAPEC) stores attack patterns, which are descriptions of common attributes and approaches employed by adversaries to exploit known weaknesses. Due to the fact that the information in these two repositories are not linked, identifying related CAPEC attack information from CVE vulnerability information is challenging. Currently, the related CAPEC-ID can be traced from the CVE-ID using Common Weakness Enumeration (CWE) in some but not all cases. Here, we propose a method to automatically trace the related CAPEC-IDs from CVE-ID using three similarity measures: TF–IDF, Universal Sentence Encoder (USE), and Sentence-BERT (SBERT). We prepared and used 58 CVE-IDs as test input data. Then, we tested whether we could trace CAPEC-IDs related to each of the 58 CVE-IDs. Additionally, we experimentally confirm that TF–IDF is the best similarity measure, as it traced 48 of the 58 CVE-IDs to the related CAPEC-ID.
Frenemies within: An Endocarditis Case in Behçet’s Disease
Authors: Moroșan Diana , Șerban Adela , Trifan Cătălin , Encica Svetlana , Pop Sorin , Șerban Tudor Costinel , Rednic Simona , Damian Laura
Published: July 2021

A 57-year female patient diagnosed with Behçet’s disease, on azathioprine, was noticed to have at a routine examination antinuclear and antiphospholipid antibodies. An overlapping lupus-like syndrome was diagnosed; hydroxychloroquine and aspirin were added. Three years later, the patient presented with dyspnea and sweating, with no fever. A cardiac bruit was noted; a giant vegetation was detected by echocardiography. Laboratory revealed severe thrombocytopenia, antiphospholipid antibodies and low complement. Blood cultures were positive for Abiotrophia defectiva serology and also revealed a chronic Coxiella burnetii infection. Antibiotic therapy, low-dose anticoagulation and control of the underlying disease mildly improved the platelet count, which fully recovered only after cardiac valve replacement. However, the Behçet’s disease, initially quiescent, flared after the therapy of infections. We discuss potential links between Behçet’s disease and the occurrence of antinuclear and antiphospholipid antibodies and Coxiella endocarditis in this setting. We also highlight the differences between the endocarditis in Behçet’s disease, antiphospholipid syndrome, Coxiella burnetii and Abiotrophia defectiva infection, respectively. Intracellular infections may modify the presentation of autoimmune diseases. Confounding clinical features of Coxiella persistent infection and non-bacterial thrombotic endocarditis in Behçet’s disease warrant further insight.
The COP9 Signalosome Variant CSNCSN7A Stabilizes the Deubiquitylating Enzyme CYLD Impeding Hepatic Steatosis
Authors: Huang Xiaohua , Dubiel Dawadschargal , Dubiel Wolfgang
Published: July 2021

Hepatic steatosis is a consequence of distorted lipid storage and plays a vital role in the pathogenesis of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This study aimed to explore the role of the COP9 signalosome (CSN) in the development of hepatic steatosis and its interplay with the deubiquitylating enzyme (DUB) cylindromatosis (CYLD). CSN occurs as CSNCSN7A and CSNCSN7B variants regulating the ubiquitin proteasome system. It is a deneddylating complex and associates with other DUBs. CYLD cleaves Lys63-ubiquitin chains, regulating a signal cascade that mitigates hepatic steatosis. CSN subunits CSN1 and CSN7B, as well as CYLD, were downregulated with specific siRNA in HepG2 cells and human primary hepatocytes. The same cells were transfected with Flag-CSN7A or Flag-CSN7B for pulldowns. Hepatic steatosis in cell culture was induced by palmitic acid (PA). Downregulation of CSN subunits led to reduced PPAR-γ expression. Flag-pulldowns in both LiSa-2 and HepG2 cells and human primary hepatocytes revealed binding of CYLD preferentially to CSNCSN7A. This was influenced by PA treatment. Silencing of CSNCSN7B blocked lipid droplet formation caused a compensatory increase of CSNCSN7A stabilizing CYLD. Our results demonstrate that CSNCSN7A-mediated CYLD stabilization impedes hepatic steatosis. Therefore, stabilizing CSNCSN7A-CYLD interaction might be a strategy to retard hepatic steatosis.
N-(Benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-2-(2-fluoro-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-yl)propanamide
Authors: Manolov Stanimir , Ivanov Iliyan , Bojilov Dimitar
Published: July 2021

N-(Benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-2-(2-fluoro-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-yl)propanamide was prepared by a reaction between benzo[d]thiazol-2-amine and flurbiprofen in high yield. The newly obtained flurbiprofen derivative was fully analyzed and characterized via 1H, 13C, UV, IR, and mass spectral data.
Three-Dimensional Analysis of Ferrite Grains Recrystallized in Low-Carbon Steel during Annealing
Authors: Horiuchi Kengo , Ogawa Toshio , Wang Zhilei , Adachi Yoshitaka
Published: July 2021

We performed a three-dimensional (3D) analysis of ferrite grains recrystallized in low-carbon steel during annealing. Cold-rolled specimens were heated to 723 K and held for various periods. The 3D morphology of ferrite grains recrystallized during the annealing process was investigated. The progress of recovery in low-carbon steel was more inhibited than that in pure iron. However, ferrite recrystallization in low-carbon steel was more rapid than that in pure iron. The Avrami exponent was inconsistent with the 3D morphology of the recrystallized ferrite grains in pure iron but consistent with that of the grains in low-carbon steel. Thus, the Avrami exponent depends on the recovery and recrystallization behaviors. Furthermore, the recrystallized ferrite grain growth was virtually 2D. Three types of recrystallized ferrite grains were observed: recrystallized ferrite grains elongated along the transverse or rolling direction; plate-shaped recrystallized ferrite grains grown in the transverse and rolling directions; fine and equiaxed recrystallized ferrite grains. These results suggest that the recrystallized ferrite grains did not grow in the normal direction. Thus, we concluded that the 3D morphology of recrystallized ferrite grains depends on the kinetics of recrystallization and the initial microstructure before recrystallization.
Smart Materials: Cementitious Mortars and PCM Mechanical and Thermal Characterization
Authors: Orsini Federico , Marrone Paola , Santini Silvia , Sguerri Lorena , Asdrubali Francesco , Baldinelli Giorgio , Bianchi Francesco , Presciutti Andrea
Published: July 2021

Climate change (CC) is predominantly connected to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the construction sector. It is clear how it is necessary to rethink construction materials in order to reduce GHG emissions. Among the various strategies proposed, recent research has investigated the potential of smart materials. This study in particular aims to develop an innovative building component that combines high energy performance with reduced thickness and weight. For this reason, the potential of Phase Change Materials (PCM) in cement-based mixes is investigated, comparing the performance of a traditional mix with two innovative mixes made with the addition of 3% and 7% PCM. This work characterizes the new material, analyzing its mechanical and thermal performance, highlighting how the mix strength decreases as the PCM ratio increases; however, both mixes may be considered suitable for masonry structures and may be classified as M5 and M15. Furthermore, from the analysis of the thermal performance, it emerges that the mix presents good behavior in terms of insulating properties.
Rosehip Extract-Functionalized Magnesium Hydroxide Nanoparticles and Its Effect on Osteoblastic and Osteoclastic Cells
Authors: Pinho Laura Costa , Garbieri Thais Francini , Grenho Liliana , Alves Marta M. , Sousa Gomes Pedro , Santos Carlos Ferreira , Fernandes Maria Helena , Santos Catarina , Colaço Bruno
Published: July 2021

Considering the role of magnesium in bone metabolism and the increasing relevance of plant-mediated green-synthesis, this work compares the bone cytocompatibility of magnesium hydroxide nanoparticles (NPs) produced by using pure water, Mg(OH)2, or a rosehip (RH) aqueous extract, Mg(OH)2RH. The NPs were evaluated for dose- and time-dependent effects on human osteoblastic and osteoclastic response, due to the direct involvement of the two cell types in bone metabolism. Mg(OH)2 NPs presented nanoplatelet-like morphology (mean diameter ~90 nm) and a crystalline structure (XRD analysis); the RH-mediated synthesis yielded smaller rounded particles (mean diameter <10 nm) with decreased crystallinity. On the ATR–FTIR spectra, both NPs presented the characteristic Mg-OH peaks; Mg(OH)2RH exhibited additional vibration bands associated with the presence of phytochemicals. On osteoblastic cells, NPs did not affect cell growth and morphology but significantly increased alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity; on osteoclastic cells, particles had little effect in protein content, tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) activity, percentage of multinucleated cells, and cell area. However, compared with Mg(OH)2, Mg(OH)2RH increased osteoblastic differentiation by inducing ALP activity and promoting the expression of Runx2, SP7, Col1a1, and ALP, and had a negative effect on the expression of the osteoclastic genes NFATC1, CA2, and CTSK. These observations suggest the potential usefulness of Mg(OH)2RH NPs in bone regeneration.
A New Method for Automatic Detection of Defects in Selective Laser Melting Based on Machine Vision
Authors: Lin Zhenqiang , Lai Yiwen , Pan Taotao , Zhang Wang , Zheng Jun , Ge Xiaohong , Liu Yuangang
Published: July 2021

Selective laser melting (SLM) is a forming technology in the field of metal additive manufacturing. In order to improve the quality of formed parts, it is necessary to monitor the selective laser melting forming process. At present, most of the research on the monitoring of the selective laser melting forming process focuses on the monitoring of the melting pool, but the quality of forming parts cannot be controlled in real-time. As an indispensable link in the SLM forming process, the quality of powder spreading directly affects the quality of the formed parts. Therefore, this paper proposes a detection method for SLM powder spreading defects, mainly using industrial cameras to collect SLM powder spreading surfaces, designing corresponding image processing algorithms to extract three common powder spreading defects, and establishing appropriate classifiers to distinguish different types of powder spreading defects. It is determined that the multilayer perceptron (MLP) is the most accurate classifier. This detection method has high recognition rate and fast detection speed, which cannot only meet the SLM forming efficiency, but also improve the quality of the formed parts through feedback control.
Kansa Method for Unsteady Heat Flow in Nonhomogenous Material with a New Proposal of Finding the Good Value of RBF’s Shape Parameter
Authors: Popczyk Olaf , Dziatkiewicz Grzegorz
Published: July 2021

New engineering materials exhibit a complex internal structure that determines their properties. For thermal metamaterials, it is essential to shape their thermophysical parameters’ spatial variability to ensure unique properties of heat flux control. Modeling heterogeneous materials such as thermal metamaterials is a current research problem, and meshless methods are currently quite popular for simulation. The main problem when using new modeling methods is the selection of their optimal parameters. The Kansa method is currently a well-established method of solving problems described by partial differential equations. However, one unsolved problem associated with this method that hinders its popularization is choosing the optimal shape parameter value of the radial basis functions. The algorithm proposed by Fasshauer and Zhang is, as of today, one of the most popular and the best-established algorithms for finding a good shape parameter value for the Kansa method. However, it turns out that it is not suitable for all classes of computational problems, e.g., for modeling the 1D heat conduction in non-homogeneous materials, as in the present paper. The work proposes two new algorithms for finding a good shape parameter value, one based on the analysis of the condition number of the matrix obtained by performing specific operations on interpolation matrix and the other being a modification of the Fasshauer algorithm. According to the error measures used in work, the proposed algorithms for the considered class of problem provide shape parameter values that lead to better results than the classic Fasshauer algorithm.
Discrete-Impulse Energy Supply in Milk and Dairy Product Processing
Authors: Droździel Paweł , Vitenko Tetiana , Voroshchuk Viktor , Narizhnyy Sergiy , Snizhko Olha
Published: July 2021

The efficient use of supplied energy is the basis of the discrete-impulse energy supply (DIES) concept. In order to explore the possibility of using DIES to intensify the hydromechanical processes, the emulsification of milk fat (homogenization of milk, preparation of spreads) and, in particular, the processing of cream cheese masses, were studied. Whole non-homogenized milk, fat emulsions, and cream cheese mass were the object of investigation. To evaluate the efficiency of milk homogenization, the homogenization coefficient change was studied, which was determined by using the centrifugation method, as it is the most affordable and accurate one. To provide the proper dispersion of the milk emulsion, six treatment cycles must be carried out under the developed cavitation mode in a static-type apparatus, here resulting in a light grain-like consistency, and exhibiting the smell of pasteurized milk. The emulsions were evaluated according to the degree of destabilization, resistance and dispersion of the fat phase. On the basis of the obtained data with respect to the regularities of fat dispersion forming in the rotor-type apparatus, the proper parameters required to obtain technologically stable fat emulsion spreads, possessing a dispersion and stability similar to those of plain milk creams, were determined. It was determined that under the DIES, an active dynamic effect on the milk globules takes place. The rheological characteristics of cheese masses were evaluated on the basis of the effective change in viscosity. The effect of the mechanical treatment on the structure of the cheese masses was determined.
Heat Treatments for Stress Relieving AlSi9Cu3 Alloy Produced by Laser Powder Bed Fusion
Authors: Fiocchi Jacopo , Colombo Chiara , Vergani Laura Maria , Fabrizi Alberto , Timelli Giulio , Tuissi Ausonio , Biffi Carlo Alberto
Published: July 2021

The present work explores the effect of a stress relieving heat treatment on the microstructure, tensile properties and residual stresses of the laser powder bed fused AlSi9Cu3 alloy. In fact, the rapid cooling rates together with subsequent heating/cooling cycles occurred during layer by layer additive manufacturing production make low temperature heat treatments desirable for promoting stress relaxation as well as limited grain growth: this combination can offer the opportunity of obtaining the best compromise between high strength, good elongation to failure and limited residual stresses. The microstructural features were analysed, revealing that the high cooling rate, induced by the process, caused a large supersaturation of the aluminum matrix and the refinement of the eutectic structure. Microhardness versus time curve, performed at 250 °C, allowed to identify a stabilization of the mechanical property at a duration of 25 h. The microstructure and the mechanical properties of the samples heat treated at 25 h and at 64 h, considered as a reference for the conventionally produced alloy, were compared with the ones of the as-built alloy. Finally, it was shown that a 59% reduction of the principal residual stresses could be achieved after the 25 h-long treatment and such evolution was correlated to the mechanical behaviour.
Experimental Study of the Resistance to Influence of Aggressive Liquids on Lightweight Concrete
Authors: Kurpińska Marzena , Haustein Elżbieta
Published: July 2021

In light of the scientific research, the corrosion of concrete structures is one of the main problems that may reduce their durability due to the negative impact of the natural environment. The paper analyzes the influence of the type of component on the selected properties of lightweight concrete subjected to the influence of aggressive liquids. Four concrete mixes were prepared with a granular aggregate made of foamed glass (GEGA) and aggregate made of sintered fly ash (GAA) with the use of a mineral additive: silica fly ash. The prepared lightweight concrete after one year was exposed for 60 days to the following environments: strong acid—HCl, 1% and 2% concentration, weak acid—CH3COOH, 1% and 2% concentration, and an aqueous salt solution of Na2SO4, 1% and 2% concentration. Then, the compressive strength was tested, and the microstructure analysis of the ready-made lightweight concrete (LWC) was performed. The degree of penetration of aggressive solutions into the cracks of the samples was assessed by means of applying 1% phenolphthalein solution. Changes in the weight of lightweight concrete samples after the test period were estimated. The obtained test results indicate that the decrease in the durability of lightweight concrete can be classified as a long-term process. Concrete with GEGA and GAA showed high resistance to aggressive environments. Moreover, the environment containing chlorides turned out to be the most aggressive, while the environment containing sulfates proved to be the least aggressive. The higher the concentration of the destructive factor was, the faster the corrosion process went. This has been proven by measuring the pH using phenolphthalein and carrying out microscopic examination. Concretes containing aggregates made of foamed glass and sintered fly ash are suitable for use both in traditional construction and in facilities exposed to an aggressive environment (e.g., in the chemical industry and at gas stations).
Influence of Graphite Layer on Electronic Properties of MgO/6H-SiC(0001) Interface
Authors: Lewandków Rafał , Mazur Piotr , Trembułowicz Artur , Sabik Agata , Wasielewski Radosław , Grodzicki Miłosz
Published: July 2021

This paper concerns research on magnesium oxide layers in terms of their potential use as a gate material for SiC MOSFET structures. The two basic systems of MgO/SiC(0001) and MgO/graphite/SiC(0001) were deeply investigated in situ under ultrahigh vacuum (UHV). In both cases, the MgO layers were obtained by a reactive evaporation method. Graphite layers terminating the SiC(0001) surface were formed by thermal annealing in UHV. The physicochemical properties of the deposited MgO layers and the systems formed with their participation were determined using X-ray and UV photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS, UPS). The results confirmed the formation of MgO compounds. Energy level diagrams were constructed for both systems. The valence band maximum of MgO layers was embedded deeper on the graphitized surface than on the SiC(0001).
A Multi-Scale Submodel Method for Fatigue Analysis of Braided Composite Structures
Authors: Zheng Jincheng , Zhang Peiwei , Zhang Dahai , Jiang Dong
Published: July 2021

A multi-scale fatigue analysis method for braided ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) based on sub-models is developed in this paper. The finite element shape function is used as the interpolation function for transferring the displacement information between the macro-scale and meso-scale models. The fatigue failure criterion based on the shear lag theory is used to implement the coupling calculation of the meso-scale and micro-scale. Combining the meso-scale cell model and the fatigue failure criterion based on the shear lag theory, the fatigue life of 2D SiC/SiC is analyzed. The analysis results are in good agreement with the experimental results, which proves the accuracy of the meso-scale cell model and the fatigue life calculation method. A multi-scale sub-model fatigue analysis method is used to study the fatigue damage of 2D SiC/SiC stiffened plates under random tension–tension loads. The influence of the sub-models at different positions in the macro-model element on the analysis results was analyzed. The results shows that the fatigue analysis method proposed in this paper takes into account the damage condition of the meso-structured of composite material, and at the same time has high calculation efficiency, and has low requirements for modeling of the macro finite element model, which can be better applied to the fatigue analysis of CMCs structure.
Large-Scale Plasma Peptidomic Profiling Reveals a Novel, Nontoxic, Crassostrea hongkongensis-Derived Antimicrobial Peptide against Foodborne Pathogens
Authors: Mao Fan , Bao Yongbo , Wong Nai-Kei , Huang Minwei , Liu Kunna , Zhang Xiangyu , Yang Zhuo , Yi Wenjie , Shu Xiao , Xiang Zhiming , Yu Ziniu , Zhang Yang
Published: July 2021

Antimicrobial peptides are a fundamental component of mollusks’ defense systems, though they remain a thinly investigated subject. Here, infection by Vibrio parahemolyticus triggered a significant increase in antimicrobial activity in oyster plasma. By using PBS-challenged oysters as a control, plasma peptides from immunologically challenged oysters were subjected to peptidomic profiling and in silico data mining to identify bioactive peptides. Thirty-five identified plasma peptides were up-regulated post infection, among which, six up-regulated peptides (URPs) showed a relatively high positive charge. URP20 was validated with significant antibacterial activity. Virtually, URP20 triggered aggregation of bacterial cells, accompanied by their membrane permeabilization. Interestingly, URP20 was found to be active against Gram-positive and Gram-negative foodborne pathogens as well as Candida albicans, with no cytotoxicity to mammalian cells and mice. Our study provides the first large-scale plasma peptidomic dataset that identifies novel bioactive peptides in marine mollusks. Further exploration of peptide diversity in marine invertebrates should prove a fruitful pursuit for designing novel AMPs with broad applications.
Enhancement of Emodin Production by Medium Optimization and KH2PO4 Supplementation in Submerged Fermentation of Marine-Derived Aspergillus favipes HN4-13
Authors: Qiu Xiaohan , Gong Lizhi , Xin Xiujuan , An Faliang
Published: July 2021

Emodin is a widely distributed anthraquinone derivative with a variety of biological activities, one that can be efficiently produced by marine-derived fungus Aspergillus favipes HN4-13. However, its relatively low fermentation yield limits further development and pharmaceutical research work. In this study, Plaekett–Burman design and central composite design were adopted to optimize the fermentation conditions of A. favipes HN4-13. Optimal fermentation conditions in a 250-mL Erlenmeyer flask with 50 mL of medium were 59.3 g/L soluble starch, 10 g/L yeast extract paste, 30 g/L seawater salt, 1.04 g/L KH2PO4, 0.05 g/L MgSO4·7H2O, 0.01 g/L FeSO4·7H2O, seed culture 24 h, pH 5, inoculum size 18%, culture temperature 32 °C, and shaking at 160 rpm/min for 7 days. The production of emodin could achieve 132.40 ± 3.09 mg/L, with no significant difference from the predicted value (132.47 mg/L). Furthermore, KH2PO4 supplementation strategy was employed to regulate the mycelial morphology, upregulate the transcriptional level of biosynthesis gene cluster, and enhance emodin production (185.56 ± 4.39 mg/L).
Editor-in-Chief’s Letter to Readers and Authors of Marine Drugs
Authors: Taglialatela-Scafati Orazio
Published: July 2021

In recent weeks, Scopus and Journal Citation Reports (JCR)/Science Edition (Clarivate Analytics) have released the bibliometric parameters CiteScore and Impact Factor, respectively [...]
Fatigue Properties of AZ31B Magnesium Alloy Processed by Equal-Channel Angular Pressing
Authors: Yamada Ryuichi , Yoshihara Shoichiro , Ito Yasumi
Published: July 2021

A stent is employed to expand a narrowed tubular organ, such as a blood vessel. However, the persistent presence of a stainless steel stent yields several problems of late thrombosis, restenosis and chronic inflammation reactions. Biodegradable magnesium stents have been introduced to solve these problems. However, magnesium-based alloys suffer from poor ductility and lower than desired fatigue performance. There is still a huge demand for further research on new alloys and stent designs. Then, as fundamental research for this, AZ31 B magnesium alloy has been investigated for the effect of equal-channel angular pressing on the fatigue properties. ECAP was conducted for one pass and eight passes at 300 °C using a die with a channel angle of 90°. An annealed sample and ECAP sample of AZ31 B magnesium alloy were subjected to tensile and fatigue tests. As a result of the tensile test, strength in the ECAP (one pass) sample was higher than in the annealed sample. As a result of the fatigue test, at stress amplitude σa = 100 MPa, the number of cycles to failure was largest in the annealed sample, medium in the ECAP (one pass) sample and lowest in the ECAP (eight passes) sample. It was suggested that the small low cycle fatigue life of the ECAP (eight passes) sample is attributable to severe plastic deformation.
Modeling the Influence of Chronic Sleep Restriction on Cortisol Circadian Rhythms, with Implications for Metabolic Disorders
Authors: Rao Rohit , Somvanshi Pramod , Klerman Elizabeth B. , Marmar Charles , Doyle Francis J.
Published: July 2021

Chronic sleep deficiency is prevalent in modern society and is associated with increased risk of metabolic and other diseases. While the mechanisms by which chronic sleep deficiency induces pathophysiological changes are yet to be elucidated, the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis may be an important mediator of these effects. Cortisol, the primary hormone of the HPA axis, exhibits robust circadian rhythmicity and is moderately influenced by sleep and wake states and other physiology. Several studies have explored the effects of acute or chronic sleep deficiency (i.e., usually from self-selected chronic sleep restriction, CSR) on the HPA axis. Quantifying long-term changes in the circadian rhythm of cortisol under CSR in controlled conditions is inadequately studied due to practical limitations. We use a semi-mechanistic mathematical model of the HPA axis and the sleep/wake cycle to explore the influence of CSR on cortisol circadian rhythmicity. In qualitative agreement with experimental findings, model simulations predict that CSR results in physiologically relevant disruptions in the phase and amplitude of the cortisol rhythm. The mathematical model presented in this work provides a mechanistic framework to further explore how CSR might lead to HPA axis disruption and subsequent development of chronic metabolic complications.
Metabolomic Studies for the Evaluation of Toxicity Induced by Environmental Toxicants on Model Organisms
Authors: Kim Hyung Min , Kang Jong Seong
Published: July 2021

Environmental pollution causes significant toxicity to ecosystems. Thus, acquiring a deeper understanding of the concentration of environmental pollutants in ecosystems and, clarifying their potential toxicities is of great significance. Environmental metabolomics is a powerful technique in investigating the effects of pollutants on living organisms in the environment. In this review, we cover the different aspects of the environmental metabolomics approach, which allows the acquisition of reliable data. A step-by-step procedure from sample preparation to data interpretation is also discussed. Additionally, other factors, including model organisms and various types of emerging environmental toxicants are discussed. Moreover, we cover the considerations for successful environmental metabolomics as well as the identification of toxic effects based on data interpretation in combination with phenotype assays. Finally, the effects induced by various types of environmental toxicants in model organisms based on the application of environmental metabolomics are also discussed.
Experimental Study and Mechanism Analysis of the Flow Boiling and Heat Transfer Characteristics in Microchannels with Different Surface Wettability
Authors: Zhou Shengnan , Shu Bifen , Yu Zukang , Huang Yan , Zhang Yuqi
Published: July 2021

In this paper experiments have been conducted to investigate the flow boiling and heat transfer characteristics in microchannels with three different surface wettability. Three types of microchannels with a super-hydrophilic surface (θ ≈ 0°), a hydrophilic surface (θ = 43°) and an untreated surface (θ = 70°) were prepared. The results show that the average heat transfer coefficient of a super-hydrophilic surface microchannel is significantly higher than that of an untreated surface microchannel, especially when the mass flux is high. The visualization of the flow patterns states that the number of bubble nucleation generated in the super-hydrophilic microchannel at the beginning of the flow boiling is significantly more than that in the untreated microchannel. Through detailed analysis of the experimental data, flow patterns and microchannel surface SEM images, it can be inferred that the super-hydrophilic surface microchannel has more active nucleation cavities, a high nucleation rate and a large nucleation number, a small bubble departure diameter and a fast departure frequency, thereby promoting the flow and heat transfer in the microchannel. In addition, through the force analysis of the vapor-liquid interface, the mechanism that the super-hydrophilic microchannel without dryout under high heat flux conditions is clarified.
Design and Adoption of Low-Cost Point-of-Care Diagnostic Devices: Syrian Case
Authors: Alseed M. Munzer , Syed Hamzah , Onbasli Mehmet Cengiz , Yetisen Ali K. , Tasoglu Savas
Published: July 2021

Civil wars produce immense humanitarian crises, causing millions of individuals to seek refuge in other countries. The rate of disease prevalence has inclined among the refugees, increasing the cost of healthcare. Complex medical conditions and high numbers of patients at healthcare centers overwhelm the healthcare system and delay diagnosis and treatment. Point-of-care (PoC) testing can provide efficient solutions to high equipment cost, late diagnosis, and low accessibility of healthcare services. However, the development of PoC devices in developing countries is challenged by several barriers. Such PoC devices may not be adopted due to prejudices about new technologies and the need for special training to use some of these devices. Here, we investigated the concerns of end users regarding PoC devices by surveying healthcare workers and doctors. The tendency to adopt PoC device changes is based on demographic factors such as work sector, education, and technology experience. The most apparent concern about PoC devices was issues regarding low accuracy, according to the surveyed clinicians.
Modelling the Human Placental Interface In Vitro—A Review
Authors: Cherubini Marta , Erickson Scott , Haase Kristina
Published: July 2021

Acting as the primary link between mother and fetus, the placenta is involved in regulating nutrient, oxygen, and waste exchange; thus, healthy placental development is crucial for a successful pregnancy. In line with the increasing demands of the fetus, the placenta evolves throughout pregnancy, making it a particularly difficult organ to study. Research into placental development and dysfunction poses a unique scientific challenge due to ethical constraints and the differences in morphology and function that exist between species. Recently, there have been increased efforts towards generating in vitro models of the human placenta. Advancements in the differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs), microfluidics, and bioprinting have each contributed to the development of new models, which can be designed to closely match physiological in vivo conditions. By including relevant placental cell types and control over the microenvironment, these new in vitro models promise to reveal clues to the pathogenesis of placental dysfunction and facilitate drug testing across the maternal-fetal interface. In this minireview, we aim to highlight current in vitro placental models and their applications in the study of disease and discuss future avenues for these in vitro models.
Investigation of Microwave Absorption Mechanisms in Microcellular Foamed Conductive Composites
Authors: Huynen Isabelle
Published: July 2021

The paper investigates the mechanisms of microwave absorption in microcellular foamed conductive composites dedicated to protection against electromagnetic interferences (EMI). A multi-layered electromagnetic one-dimensional (1D) model mimicking the microcellular foam structure is built and validated using previous measurements carried out on various fabricated composite foams. Our model enables us to perform a parametric analysis of the absorption behaviour in a foamed composite, using as parameters the size of the hollow cell, the thickness of the cell’s walls and its conductivity, as well as the overall thickness of the composite and the frequency. Our investigations demonstrate that multiple reflections of the microwave signal between the cellular walls are not the main mechanism responsible for absorption, although they are often reported as a cause of enhanced absorption in the literature. On the contrary, our work demonstrates that the enhancement of the absorption observed in foamed conductive composite compared to unfoamed composite is mainly due to the presence of air in the microcells of the composite.
High-Temperature Metamorphic Garnets from Grenvillian Granulites of Southwestern Oaxacan Complex (Southern Mexico): Petrology, Geochemistry, Geothermobarometry, and Tectonic Implications
Authors: Culí Laura , Solé Jesús , Campeny Marc , Oalmann Jeffry A. G.
Published: July 2021

The basement of eastern Mexico comprises Grenvillian-age granulite-facies metamorphic rocks. The Oaxacan Complex represents the largest outcrop belt of this basement in Mexico. In this work, southwestern Oaxacan Complex garnets are studied from a petrographical, geochemical, and geothermobarometrical perspective for the first time. The studied garnets display different grain sizes nucleated in a polyphase evolution. The almandine end member proportion is similar in all of the studied lithotypes. The highest pyrope concentrations are found in Qz Fsp paragenesis and ultramafic rocks and the lowest pyrope concentrations are found in amphibolite. The highest grossular and spessartine concentrations are found in the amphibolite lithotype. Southwestern Oaxacan Complex garnets from paraderivate samples are more enriched in Rb, Ba, Pb, Ni, and Zn than those from orthoderivate samples enriched in Ti and V. This fact is related to the nature of the protoliths and the mineral phases that fractionate the same minor and trace elements. Garnets from para- and orthoderivate samples display 0.02–1.1 Eu/Eu* anomalies. This fact indicates that almost all of the garnets formed while the plagioclase was stable, and it does not rule out the interpretation that some garnets were peritectic. The pressure obtained using a Grt-Opx-Pl-Qz geobarometer in the southwestern Oaxacan Complex is higher than the pressure obtained in the northern part of the Complex, and it is consistent with the pressure obtained in the Grenvillian-age granulites of the Novillo Gneiss from northeastern Mexico. Geothermobarometric studies reveal different P-T features at the study site, so different structural levels of the orogen are inferred.
Nickel Uptake by Cypress Pine (Callitris glaucophylla) in the Miandetta Area, Australia: Implications for Use in Biogeochemical Exploration
Authors: McQueen Kenneth G. , Alorbi Augustine , Schifano Joseph A. , Cohen David R.
Published: July 2021

The uptake of Ni and other elements by Callitris glaucophylla (white cypress pine), from weathered ultramafic rocks under varying depths of transported regolith cover, is examined at two sites in the Miandetta area, New South Wales, Australia. Results show that C. glaucophylla can accumulate elevated Ni concentrations in the needles (leaves or phyllodes) from underlying Ni-enriched regolith up to two orders of magnitude above the normal micronutrient levels required for the species. Such uptake levels occur in areas with high total Ni in the soil and regolith despite the relatively low mobility of the Ni due to its presence in a low availability form. This highlights the importance of biotic processes in extracting Ni from soil. The needles of C. glaucophylla could provide an effective and convenient sampling medium for reconnaissance biogeochemical exploration for Ni mineralisation and anomalies where transported regolith is less than ~3 m thick. The study has also demonstrated the potential for in situ analysis of Ni and other elements in the needles by portable XRF.
Air Pollution Research Based on Spider Web and Parallel Continuous Particulate Monitoring—A Comparison Study Coupled with Identification of Sources
Authors: Stojanowska Agnieszka , Mach Tomasz , Olszowski Tomasz , Bihałowicz Jan Stefan , Górka Maciej , Rybak Justyna , Rajfur Małgorzata , Świsłowski Paweł
Published: July 2021

Air pollution is monitored mainly in urban or industrial areas, even if it is known that in rural ones, low emission can significantly worsen air quality. Hence, cheap and easily accessible methods of monitoring are needed. Recently, spider webs biomonitoring is getting popular, however, there is no information about its comparison with active methods. In this study, PTEs accumulated on spider webs were compared with results from continuous particulate monitor (CPM). Generally, higher potentially toxic elements concentrations were noted in spider web, with exception in the case of Zn. Zn may be present rather in smaller fractions, hence it needs more time for accumulation on spider web while it is easily collected by CPM. Higher concentrations of other elements on spider webs may result from formation of aggregates which could not be reported in PM10 sampling (CPM). What is more, the order of the most and the least accumulated elements were similar and the percentage share of studied elements was coherent in most cases, proving that this new tool prospers to become commonly used in biomonitoring. Additionally, to identify possible sources of pollution air backward trajectories and trajectory frequencies for Kotórz were prepared based on the HYSPLIT model.
Natural Products from Madagascar, Socio-Cultural Usage, and Potential Applications in Advanced Biomedicine: A Concise Review
Authors: Mesa Camillo La , Ranalison Oliarinony , Randriantseheno Lovasoa N. , Risuleo Gianfranco
Published: July 2021

Natural products endowed of biological activity represent a primary source of commodities ranging from nutrition to therapeutic agents, as well as cosmetic tools and recreational principles. These natural means have been used by mankind for centuries, if not millennia. They are commonly used all over the world in socio-economical contexts, but are particularly attractive in disadvantaged areas or economically emerging situations all over the world. This is very likely due to the relatively easy recovery of these bioactive principles from the environment, at a low if any cost, as well as ease of administration and the general popular compliance concerning their consumption/ingestion. In this concise review, we focus on some popular bioactive principles of botanical origin which find a wide use in the Madagascan populations. However, due to space limitations, only some of the most common and largely diffused principles in this country are considered. Finally, a possible nanotechnological administration is discussed in the case where a potential therapeutic usage is envisaged.
Synthesis of Hierarchical MOR-Type Zeolites with Improved Catalytic Properties
Authors: Mcheik Zeinab , Pinard Ludovic , Toufaily Joumana , Hamieh Tayssir , Daou T. Jean
Published: July 2021

Hierarchical MOR-type zeolites were synthesized in the presence of hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) as a porogen agent. XRD proved that the concentration of CTAB in the synthesis medium plays an essential role in forming pure hierarchical MOR-type material. Above a CTAB concentration of 0.04 mol·L−1, amorphous materials are observed. These hierarchical mordenite possess a higher porous volume compared to its counterpart conventional micrometer crystals. Nitrogen sorption showed the presence of mesoporosity for all mordenite samples synthesized in the presence of CTAB. The creation of mesopores due to the presence of CTAB in the synthesis medium does not occur at the expense of zeolite micropores. In addition, mesoporous volume and BET surface seem to increase upon the increase of CTAB concentration in the synthesis medium. The Si/Al ratio of the zeolite framework can be increased from 5.5 to 9.1 by halving the aluminum content present in the synthesis gel. These synthesized hierarchical MOR-type zeolites possess an improved catalytic activity for n-hexane cracking compared to large zeolite crystals obtained in the absence of CTAB.
SR-17018 Stimulates Atypical µ-Opioid Receptor Phosphorylation and Dephosphorylation
Authors: Fritzwanker Sebastian , Schulz Stefan , Kliewer Andrea
Published: July 2021

Opioid-associated overdoses and deaths due to respiratory depression are a major public health problem in the US and other Western countries. In the past decade, much research effort has been directed towards the development of G-protein-biased µ-opioid receptor (MOP) agonists as a possible means to circumvent this problem. The bias hypothesis proposes that G-protein signaling mediates analgesia, whereas ß-arrestin signaling mediates respiratory depression. SR-17018 was initially reported as a highly biased µ-opioid with an extremely wide therapeutic window. It was later shown that SR-17018 can also reverse morphine tolerance and prevent withdrawal via a hitherto unknown mechanism of action. Here, we examined the temporal dynamics of SR-17018-induced MOP phosphorylation and dephosphorylation. Exposure of MOP to saturating concentrations of SR-17018 for extended periods of time stimulated a MOP phosphorylation pattern that was indistinguishable from that induced by the full agonist DAMGO. Unlike DAMGO-induced MOP phosphorylation, which is reversible within minutes after agonist washout, SR-17018-induced MOP phosphorylation persisted for hours under otherwise identical conditions. Such delayed MOP dephosphorylation kinetics were also found for the partial agonist buprenorphine. However, buprenorphine, SR-17018-induced MOP phosphorylation was fully reversible when naloxone was included in the washout solution. SR-17018 exhibits a qualitative and temporal MOP phosphorylation profile that is strikingly different from any other known biased, partial, or full MOP agonist. We conclude that detailed analysis of receptor phosphorylation may provide novel insights into previously unappreciated pharmacological properties of newly synthesized MOP ligands.
Unexpected Enhancement of Antimicrobial Polymer Activity against Staphylococcus aureus in the Presence of Fetal Bovine Serum
Authors: Sovadinová Iva , Kuroda Kenichi , Palermo Edmund F.
Published: July 2021

Cationic and amphiphilic polymers are known to exert broad-spectrum antibacterial activity by a putative mechanism of membrane disruption. Typically, nonspecific binding to hydrophobic components of the complex biological milieu, such as globular proteins, is considered a deterrent to the successful application of such polymers. To evaluate the extent to which serum deactivates antibacterial polymethacrylates, we compared their minimum inhibitory concentrations in the presence and absence of fetal bovine serum. Surprisingly, we discovered that the addition of fetal bovine serum (FBS) to the assay media in fact enhances the antimicrobial activity of polymers against Gram-positive bacteria S. aureus, whereas the opposite is the case for Gram-negative E. coli. Here, we present these unexpected trends and develop a hypothesis to potentially explain this unusual phenomenon.
Systematic Exploration of the Synthetic Parameters for the Production of Dynamic VO2(M1)
Authors: Bragaggia Giulia , Cacciatore Andrea , Poffe Elisa , Capone Claudia , Zorzi Federico , Causin Valerio , Gross Silvia
Published: July 2021

Thermochromic dynamic cool materials present a reversible change of their properties wherein by increasing the temperature, the reflectance, conductivity, and transmittance change due to a reversible crystalline phase transition. In particular, vanadium (IV) dioxide shows a reversible phase transition, accompanied by a change in optical properties, from monoclinic VO2(M1) to tetragonal VO2(R). In this paper, we report on a systematic exploration of the parameters for the synthesis of vanadium dioxide VO2(M1) via an easy, sustainable, reproducible, fast, scalable, and low-cost hydrothermal route without hazardous chemicals, followed by an annealing treatment. The metastable phase VO2(B), obtained via a hydrothermal route, was converted into the stable VO2(M1), which shows a metal–insulator transition (MIT) at 68 °C that is useful for different applications, from energy-efficient smart windows to dynamic concrete. Within this scenario, a further functionalization of the oxide nanostructures with tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS), characterized by an extreme alkaline environment, was carried out to ensure compatibility with the concrete matrix. Structural properties of the synthesized vanadium dioxides were investigated using temperature-dependent X-ray Diffraction analysis (XRD), while compositional and morphological properties were assessed using Scanning Electron Microscopy, Energy Dispersive X-ray Analysis (SEM-EDX), and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) analysis was used to investigate the thermal behavior.