bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Systematic Mapping Study of MMOG Backend Architectures
Authors: Kasenides Nicos , Paspallis Nearchos
Published: August 2019

The advent of utility computing has revolutionized almost every sector of traditional software development. Especially commercial cloud computing services, pioneered by the likes of Amazon, Google and Microsoft, have provided an unprecedented opportunity for the fast and sustainable development of complex distributed systems. Nevertheless, existing models and tools aim primarily for systems where resource usage—by humans and bots alike—is logically and physically quite disperse resulting in a low likelihood of conflicting resource access. However, a number of resource-intensive applications, such as Massively Multiplayer Online Games (MMOGs) and large-scale simulations introduce a requirement for a very large common state with many actors accessing it simultaneously and thus a high likelihood of conflicting resource access. This paper presents a systematic mapping study of the state-of-the-art in software technology aiming explicitly to support the development of MMOGs, a class of large-scale, resource-intensive software systems. By examining the main focus of a diverse set of related publications, we identify a list of criteria that are important for MMOG development. Then, we categorize the selected studies based on the inferred criteria in order to compare their approach, unveil the challenges faced in each of them and reveal research trends that might be present. Finally we attempt to identify research directions which appear promising for enabling the use of standardized technology for this class of systems.
Covalent Si–H Bonds in the Zintl Phase Hydride CaSiH1+x (x ≤ 1/3)
Authors: Auer Henry , Yang Fangshun , Playford Helen Y. , Hansen Thomas C. , Franz Alexandra , Kohlmann Holger
Published: August 2019

The crystal structure of the Zintl phase hydride CaSiH≈4/3 was discussed controversially, especially with respect to the nature of the silicon-hydrogen interaction. We have applied X-ray and neutron powder diffraction as well as total neutron scattering on a deuterated sample, CaSiD1.1. Rietveld refinement (CaSiD1.1, Pnma, a = 14.579(4) Å, b = 3.8119(4) Å, c = 11.209(2) Å) and an analysis of the neutron pair distribution function show a silicon-deuterium bond length of 1.53 Å. The Si–H bond may thus be categorized as covalent and the main structural features described by a limiting ionic formula Ca2+H−(Si−)2/3(SiH−)1/3. Hydrogen atoms decorating the ribbon-like silicon polyanion made of three connected zigzag chains are under-occupied, resulting in a composition CaSiH1.1. Hydrogen-poor Zintl phase hydrides CaSiH<1 with hydride ions in Ca4 tetrahedra only were found in an in situ neutron diffraction experiment at elevated temperature. Hydrogen (deuterium) uptake and release in CaSiDx (0.05 ≤ x ≤ 0.17) is a very fast process and takes less than 1 min to complete, which is of importance for possible hydrogen storage applications.
Tribological and Thermal Transport Performance of SiO2-Based Natural Lubricants
Authors: Taha-Tijerina Jaime , Aviña Karla , Diabb Jose Manuel
Published: August 2019

Fluids and lubricants are critical for the mechanical manufacturing processing of metals, due to a high amount of friction generated, also reflected as heat, could wear and damage tooling and machine components. The proper application of lubricants increases machinery lifetime, decreases long-term costs, and energy and time consumption due to the maintenance or components exchange/repairs. Besides being non-renewable, mineral oils bring consequences to the environment due to their low biodegradability and could affect the user with respiratory and skin diseases. Recently, due to an increase in environmental awareness, the search of biocompatible and efficient lubricants has become a technology goal. The vegetable oil-based lubricants are slowly emerging as ecofriendly and high-performance alternatives to petroleum-based lubricants. This study evaluates soybean, sunflower, corn and paraffinic oils reinforced with SiO2 nanoparticles. The thermal and tribological evaluations were performed varying the temperature and nanofiller concentrations. The thermal conductivity improvements were observed for all nanolubricants as the temperature and filler fraction increased. The highest thermal conductivities were observed at 323 K with 0.25 wt % SiO2. The soybean and corn oils unveiled a maximum enhancement of ~11%. The tribological evaluations showed that SiO2 addition, even in small concentration, resulted into a significant improvement on a load-carrying capacity. For instance, at 0.25 wt % enhancements of 45% and 60% were observed for soybean and sunflower oils, respectively. The coefficient of friction performance also showed enhancements between 10% and 26%.
Ionic Liquid Crystals in Tribology
Authors: Avilés M.D. , Sánchez C. , Pamies R. , Sanes J. , Bermúdez M.D.
Published: August 2019

The present work intends to provide a brief account of the most recent advances in the use of ionic liquid crystals (ILCs) in the field of tribology, that is, the development of new lubricants with the ability to reduce the coefficients of friction and the wear rates of materials under sliding conditions. After a definition of ILCs and their relationship with neutral liquid crystals (LCs) and ionic liquids (ILs), the review will be focused on the influence of molecular structure and composition on the tribological performance, the combination with base oils, surfactants or water, and the different sliding configuration and potential applications. The main mechanisms proposed in order to justify the lubricating ability of ILCs will be analyzed. Special emphasis will be made for recent results obtained for fatty acid derivatives due to their renewable and environmentally friendly nature.
Performance of Foundry Sand Concrete under Ambient and Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Bilal Hazrat , Yaqub Muhammad , Rehman Sardar Kashif Ur , Abid Muhammad , Alyousef Rayed , Alabduljabbar Hisham , Aslam Fahid
Published: August 2019

Waste foundry sand (WFS) is the by-product of the foundry industry. Utilizing it in the construction industry will protect the environment and its natural resources, and enable sustainable construction. WFS was employed in this research as a fractional substitution of natural sand by 0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, and 40% in concrete. Several tests, including workability, compressive strength (CS), splitting tensile strength (STS), and flexural strength (FS), ultrasonic pulse velocity (USPV), Schmidt rebound hammer number (RHN), and residual compressive strengths (RCS) tests were performed to understand the behavior of concrete before and after exposure to elevated temperatures. Test findings showed that the strength characteristics were increased by including WFS at all the phases. For a substitute rate of 30%, the maximum compressive, splitting tensile, and flexural strength were observed. Replacement with WFS enhanced the 28-day compressive, splitting tensile, and flexural strength by 7.82%, 9.87%, and 10.35%, respectively at a 30% replacement level, and showed continuous improvement until the age of 91 days. The RCS of foundry sand concrete after one month of air cooling at ambient temperature after exposing to 300 °C, 400 °C, 500 °C, 600 °C, 700 °C, and 800 °C was found to be in the range of 67.50% to 71.00%, 57.50% to 61.50%, 49.00% to 51.50%, 38% to 41%, 31% to 35% and 26% to 31.5% of unheated compressive strength values for 0% to 40% replacement of WFS, respectively. The RCS decreases with increasing temperature; however, with increasing WFS, the RCS was enhanced in comparison to the control samples. In addition, the replacement of 30% yielded excellent outcomes. Hence, this study provides a sustainable construction material that will preserve the Earth’s natural resources and provide a best use of WFS.
Flammability, Smoke, Mechanical Behaviours and Morphology of Flame Retarded Natural Fibre/Elium® Composite
Authors: Khalili Pooria , Blinzler Brina , Kádár Roland , Bisschop Roeland , Försth Michael , Blomqvist Per
Published: August 2019

The work involves fabrication of natural fibre/Elium® composites using resin infusion technique. The jute fabrics were treated using phosphorus-carbon based flame retardant (FR) agent, a phosphonate solution and graphene nano-platelet (GnP), followed by resin infusion, to produce FR and graphene-based composites. The properties of these composites were compared with those of the Control (jute fabric/Elium®). As obtained from the cone calorimeter and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, the peak heat release rate reduced significantly after the FR and GnP treatments of fabrics whereas total smoke release and quantity of carbon monoxide increased with the incorporation of FR. The addition of GnP had almost no effect on carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide yield. Dynamic mechanical analysis demonstrated that coating jute fabrics with GnP particles led to an enhanced glass transition temperature by 14%. Scanning electron microscopy showed fibre pull-out locations in the tensile fracture surface of the laminates after incorporation of both fillers, which resulted in reduced tensile properties.
Different Radiation Tolerances of Ultrafine-Grained Zirconia–Magnesia Composite Ceramics with Different Grain Sizes
Authors: Qin Wenjing , Hong Mengqing , Wang Yongqiang , Tang Jun , Cai Guangxu , Yin Ran , Ruan Xuefeng , Yang Bing , Jiang Changzhong , Ren Feng
Published: August 2019

Developing high-radiation-tolerant inert matrix fuel (IMF) with a long lifetime is important for advanced fission nuclear systems. In this work, we combined zirconia (ZrO2) with magnesia (MgO) to form ultrafine-grained ZrO2–MgO composite ceramics. On the one hand, the formation of phase interfaces can stabilize the structure of ZrO2 as well as inhibiting excessive coarsening of grains. On the other hand, the grain refinement of the composite ceramics can increase the defect sinks. Two kinds of composite ceramics with different grain sizes were prepared by spark plasma sintering (SPS), and their radiation damage behaviors were evaluated by helium (He) and xenon (Xe) ion irradiation. It was found that these dual-phase composite ceramics had better radiation tolerance than the pure yttria-stabilized ZrO2 (YSZ) and MgO. Regarding He+ ion irradiation with low displacement damage, the ZrO2–MgO composite ceramic with smaller grain size had a better ability to manage He bubbles than the composite ceramic with larger grain size. However, the ZrO2–MgO composite ceramic with a larger grain size could withstand higher displacement damage in the phase transformation under heavy ion irradiation. Therefore, the balance in managing He bubbles and phase stability should be considered in choosing suitable grain sizes.
On The Microstructures and Hardness of The Nb-24Ti-18Si-5Al-5Cr-5Ge and Nb-24Ti-18Si-5Al-5Cr-5Ge-5Hf (at.%) Silicide Based Alloys
Authors: Li Zifu , Tsakiropoulos Panos
Published: August 2019

The microstructures and hardness of the as cast and heat treated (1400 °C/100 h) alloys Nb-24Ti-18Si-5Ge-5Cr-5Al (ZF6) and Nb-24Ti-18Si-5Ge-5Cr-5Al-5Hf (ZF9) were studied. Both alloys were compared with refractory metal bcc solid solution + intermetallic High Entropy Alloys (HEAs). There was macrosegregation of Si, Ti, Cr and Al in both alloys. The roles of Ge and Hf on macrosegregation are discussed. In both alloys the primary phase was the βNb5Si3. In the as cast alloy ZF6 the Nbss, βNb5Si3 and C14-NbCr2 Laves phase and Nbss + βNb5Si3 eutectic were formed. The microstructure of the as cast alloy ZF9 consisted of Nbss, βNb5Si3, γNb5Si3 and C14-NbCr2 Laves phase. The heat-treated microstructures of the alloys ZF6 and ZF9 consisted of Nbss, βNb5Si3 and αNb5Si3 and Nbss, βNb5Si3, αNb5Si3 and γNb5Si3, respectively. The surfaces of both alloys were contaminated by oxygen where TiO2 and HfO2 formed respectively in the alloys ZF6 and ZF9. Alloying with Hf increased the lattice parameter of Nbss and decreased the hardness of ZF9 and Nb5Si3. The roles of alloying additions on the hardness of the Nbss and Nb5Si3 and relationships between alloy hardness and alloy parameters VEC (valence electron concentration), δ (related to atomic size) and Δχ (related to electronegativity) were discussed.
Modified Suzuki-Simulation Type Contractive Mapping in Non-Archimedean Quasi Modular Metric Spaces and Application to Graph Theory
Authors: Girgin Ekber , Öztürk Mahpeyker
Published: August 2019

In this paper, we establish generalized Suzuki-simulation-type contractive mapping and prove fixed point theorems on non-Archimedean quasi modular metric spaces. As an application, we acquire graphic-type results.
Ostrowski Type Inequalities Involving ψ-Hilfer Fractional Integrals
Authors: Basci Yasemin , Baleanu Dumitru
Published: August 2019

In this study we introduce several new Ostrowski-type inequalities for both left and right sided fractional integrals of a function g with respect to another function ψ . Our results generalized the ones presented previously by Farid. Furthermore, two illustrative examples are presented to support our results.
Secondary Metabolites with α-Glucosidase Inhibitory Activity from the Mangrove Fungus Mycosphaerella sp. SYSU-DZG01
Authors: Qiu Pei , Liu Zhaoming , Chen Yan , Cai Runlin , Chen Guangying , She Zhigang
Published: August 2019

Four new metabolites, asperchalasine I (1), dibefurin B (2) and two epicoccine derivatives (3 and 4), together with seven known compounds (5–11) were isolated from a mangrove fungus Mycosphaerella sp. SYSU-DZG01. The structures of compounds 1–4 were established from extensive spectroscopic data and HRESIMS analysis. The absolute configuration of 1 was deduced by comparison of ECD data with that of a known structure. The stereostructures of 2–4 were further confirmed by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Compounds 1, 8 and 9 exhibited significant α-glucosidase inhibitory activity with IC50 values of 17.1, 26.7 and 15.7 μM, respectively. Compounds 1, 4, 6 and 8 showed antioxidant activity by scavenging DPPH· with EC50 values ranging from 16.3 to 85.8 μM.
Enhanced Lipid Production and Molecular Dynamics under Salinity Stress in Green Microalga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii (137C)
Authors: Atikij Thanapa , Syaputri Yolani , Iwahashi Hitoshi , Praneenararat Thanit , Sirisattha Sophon , Kageyama Hakuto , Waditee-Sirisattha Rungaroon
Published: August 2019

Microalgal lipids are a source of valuable nutritional ingredients in biotechnological industries, and are precursors to biodiesel production. Here, the effects of salt-induced stresses, including NaCl, KCl, and LiCl stresses, on the production of lipid in green microalga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii (137c) were investigated. NaCl stress dramatically increased saturated fatty acids (SFAs), which accounted for 70.2% of the fatty acid methyl ester (FAMEs) under stress. In contrary, KCl stress led to a slight increase in SFAs (47.05%) with the remaining being polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) (45.77%). RT-PCR analysis revealed that the genes involved in FA biosynthesis, such as PDH2, ACCase, MAT and KAS2, were up-regulated by NaCl-induced stress. Conversely, the genes responsible for the Kennedy pathway were suppressed. The alteration of FA homeostasis was further assessed by overexpressing MAT, the enzyme responsible for the production of malonyl-ACP, a key building block for FA biosynthesis, in the cyanobacterium Synechococcus elongatus PCC 7942. Intracellular FA composition was affected, with a predominant synthesis of SFAs in transformed cells. Owing to the diversity and relative abundance of SFAs, monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFAs) and PUFAs enable the feasibility of using microorganisms as a source of microalgal lipids or valuable nutritional ingredients; salt-induced stress and expression of MAT are useful in providing precursors for enhanced lipid production.
Therapeutic Effects of Fucoidan: A Review on Recent Studies
Authors: Luthuli Sibusiso , Wu Siya , Cheng Yang , Zheng Xiaoli , Wu Mingjiang , Tong Haibin
Published: August 2019

Fucoidan is a polysaccharide largely made up of l-fucose and sulfate groups. Fucoidan is favorable worldwide, especially amongst the food and pharmaceutical industry as a consequence of its promising therapeutic effects. Its applaudable biological functions are ascribed to its unique biological structure. Classical bioactivities associated with fucoidan include anti-oxidant, anti-tumor, anti-coagulant, anti-thrombotic, immunoregulatory, anti-viral and anti-inflammatory effects. More recently, a variety of in vitro and in vivo studies have been carried out to further highlight its therapeutic potentials. This review focuses on the progress towards understanding fucoidan and its biological activities, which may be beneficial as a future therapy. Hence, we have summarized in vitro and in vivo studies that were done within the current decade. We expect this review and a variety of others can contribute as a theoretical basis for understanding and inspire further product development of fucoidan.
Assessment of ADAMTS-13 Level in Hospitalized Children with Serious Bacterial Infections as a Possible Prognostic Marker
Authors: Rautiainen Linda , Cirko Anna , Pavare Jana , Balmaks Reinis , Grope Ilze , Katirlo Irina , Gersone Gita , Tretjakovs Peteris , Gardovska Dace
Published: August 2019

Background and objectives: In children, acute infection is the most common cause of visits in the primary care or emergency department. In 2002, criteria for diagnostics of pediatric sepsis were published, and then revised in 2016 as “life-threatening organ dysfunction due to a dysregulated host response to infection”. In the pathophysiology of sepsis endothelial dysfunction plays a very important role. Deficient proteolysis of von Willebrand factor, due to reduced ADAMTS-13 activity, results in disseminated platelet-rich thrombi in the microcirculation. ADAMTS-13 deficiency has been detected in systemic inflammation. The clinical relevance of ADAMTS-13 during sepsis is still unclear. We aimed to investigate the possible use of ADAMTS-13 as a prognostic marker in children with serious bacterial infection (SBI). Materials and Methods: Inclusion criteria were hospitalized children with SBI, aged from 1 month to 17 years. SBI was defined based on available clinical, imaging, and later also on microbiological data. Sepsis was diagnosed using criteria by The International Consensus Conference. In all the patients, the levels of ADAMTS-13 were measured at the time of inclusion. Results: Data from 71 patients were analyzed. A total of 47.9% (34) had sepsis, 21.1% (15) were admitted to the ICU, 8.5% (6) had mechanical ventilator support, and 4.2% (3) patients had a positive blood culture. The median level of ADAMTS-13 in this study population was 689.43 ng/mL. Patients with sepsis, patients admitted to the Intensive Care Unit, and patients in need of mechanical ventilator support had significantly lower levels of ADAMTS-13. None of the patients had ADAMTS-13 deficiency. In patients with SBI, the area under the curve (AUC) to predict sepsis was 0.67. A cut-off ADAMTS-13 level of ≤730.49 had 82% sensitivity and 60% specificity for sepsis in patients with SBI. Conclusions: ADATMS-13 levels were lower in patients with SBI and sepsis, but AUC and sensitivity were too low to accept it as a prognostic marker.
Asthma and Food Allergy: Which Risks?
Authors: di Palmo Emanuela , Gallucci Marcella , Cipriani Francesca , Bertelli Luca , Giannetti Arianna , Ricci Giampaolo
Published: August 2019

Over the past few decades, an increase in the prevalence of asthma and food allergy has been observed in the pediatric population. In infants, food sensitization, particularly to egg, has increased the risk of developing allergic asthma. This is even more likely if sensitization to food allergens occurs early within the first few years of life. It is indeed known that both diseases may be present simultaneously in the pediatric population, but coexistence may negatively influence the severity of both conditions by increasing the risk of life-threatening asthmatic episodes as well as food-related anaphylaxis. Therefore, an accurate clinical and phenotype characterization of this high-risk group of children with both asthma and food allergy and a more aggressive management might lead to reducing related morbidity and mortality. The aim of this review is to provide an updated overview on the close link between food allergy and asthma and their negative mutual influence.
Materials and Applications for Low-Cost Ceramic Membranes
Authors: Abdullayev Amanmyrat , Bekheet Maged , Hanaor Dorian , Gurlo Aleksander
Published: August 2019

In water treatment applications, the use of ceramic membranes is associated with numerous advantages relative to polymer-based filtration systems. High-temperature stability, fouling resistance, and low maintenance requirements contribute to lower lifecycle costs in such systems. However, the high production costs of most commercially available ceramic membranes, stemming from raw materials and processing, are uneconomical for such systems in most water treatment applications. For this reason, there is a growing demand for new ceramic membranes based on low-cost raw materials and processes. The use of unrefined mineral feedstocks, clays, cement, sands, and ash as the basis for the fabrication of ceramic membranes offers a promising pathway towards the obtainment of effective filtration systems that can be economically implemented in large volumes. The design of effective ceramic filtration membranes based on low-cost raw materials and energy-efficient processes requires a balance of pore structure, mass flow, and robustness, all of which are highly dependent on the composition of materials used, the inclusion of various pore-forming and binding additives, and the thermal treatments to which membranes are subjected. In this review, we present recent developments in materials and processes for the fabrication of low-cost membranes from unrefined raw materials, including clays, zeolites, apatite, waste products, including fly ash and rice husk ash, and cement. We examine multiple aspects of materials design and address the challenges relating to their further development.
Cleaner Recycling of Spent Lead-Acid Battery Paste and Co-Treatment of Pyrite Cinder via a Reductive Sulfur-Fixing Method for Valuable Metal Recovery and Sulfur Conservation
Authors: Li Yun , Yang Shenghai , Taskinen Pekka , Chen Yongming , Tang Chaobo , Jokilaakso Ari
Published: August 2019

This study proposes a cleaner lead-acid battery (LAB) paste and pyrite cinder (PyC) recycling method without excessive generation of SO2. PyCs were employed as sulfur-fixing reagents to conserve sulfur as condensed sulfides, which prevented SO2 emissions. In this work, the phase transformation mechanisms in a PbSO4-Na2CO3-Fe3O4-C reaction system were studied in detail. Furthermore, the co-treatment of spent LAB and PyCs was conducted to determine the optimal recycling conditions and to detect the influences of different processing parameters on lead recovery and sulfur fixation. In addition, a bench-scale experiment was carried out to confirm the feasibility and reliability of this novel process. The results reveal that the products were separated into three distinct layers: slag, ferrous matte, and crude lead. 98.3% of lead and 99% of silver in the feed materials were directly enriched in crude lead. Crude lead with purity of more than 98 wt.% (weight percent) was obtained by a one-step extraction. Lead contents in the produced matte and slag were below 2.7 wt.% and 0.6 wt.%, respectively. At the same time, 99.2% total sulfur was fixed and recovered.
Fracture, Fatigue, and Structural Integrity of Metallic Materials
Authors: Cicero Sergio , Álvarez José Alberto
Published: August 2019

Fracture, fatigue, and other subcritical processes, such as creep crack growth or stress corrosion cracking, present numerous open issues from both scientific and industrial points of view [...]
Structural Aspects of Execution and Thermal Treatment of Welded Joints of Hardox Extreme Steel
Authors: Konat Łukasz
Published: August 2019

The paper presents structure and mechanical properties of welded joints of the high-strength, abrasive-wear resistant steel Hardox Extreme. It was shown that, as a result of welding this steel, structures conducive to lowering its abrasion-wear resistance are created in the heat-affected zone. Width of the zone exceeds 60 mm, which results in accelerated wear in the planned applications. On the grounds of the carried-out examinations of structures and selected mechanical properties, a welding technology followed by heat treatment of heat-affected zones was suggested, leading to reconstruction of HAZ structures that is morphologically close to the base material structure. In spite of high carbon equivalent (CEV) of Hardox Extreme, the executed welding processes and heat treatment did not result in the appearance, in laboratory conditions, of welding imperfections in the welded joints.
WiPP: Workflow for Improved Peak Picking for Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) Data
Authors: Borgsmüller Nico , Gloaguen Yoann , Opialla Tobias , Blanc Eric , Sicard Emilie , Royer Anne-Lise , Le Bizec Bruno , Durand Stéphanie , Migné Carole , Pétéra Mélanie , Pujos-Guillot Estelle , Giacomoni Franck , Guitton Yann , Beule Dieter , Kirwan Jennifer
Published: August 2019

Lack of reliable peak detection impedes automated analysis of large-scale gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) metabolomics datasets. Performance and outcome of individual peak-picking algorithms can differ widely depending on both algorithmic approach and parameters, as well as data acquisition method. Therefore, comparing and contrasting between algorithms is difficult. Here we present a workflow for improved peak picking (WiPP), a parameter optimising, multi-algorithm peak detection for GC-MS metabolomics. WiPP evaluates the quality of detected peaks using a machine learning-based classification scheme based on seven peak classes. The quality information returned by the classifier for each individual peak is merged with results from different peak detection algorithms to create one final high-quality peak set for immediate down-stream analysis. Medium- and low-quality peaks are kept for further inspection. By applying WiPP to standard compound mixes and a complex biological dataset, we demonstrate that peak detection is improved through the novel way to assign peak quality, an automated parameter optimisation, and results in integration across different embedded peak picking algorithms. Furthermore, our approach can provide an impartial performance comparison of different peak picking algorithms. WiPP is freely available on GitHub (https://github.com/bihealth/WiPP) under MIT licence.
A Review: Preparation, Performance, and Applications of Silicon Oxynitride Film
Authors: Shi Yue , He Liang , Guang Fangcao , Li Luhai , Xin Zhiqing , Liu Ruping
Published: August 2019

Silicon oxynitride (SiNxOy) is a highly promising functional material for its luminescence performance and tunable refractive index, which has wide applications in optical devices, non-volatile memory, barrier layer, and scratch-resistant coatings. This review presents recent developments, and discusses the preparation methods, performance, and applications of SiNxOy film. In particular, the preparation of SiNxOy film by chemical vapor deposition, physical vapor deposition, and oxynitridation is elaborated in details.
Thermomagnetic Convection of Ferrofluid in an Enclosure Channel with an Internal Magnetic Field
Authors: Lee Myoungwoo , Kim Youn-Jea
Published: August 2019

Ferrofluid is a colloidal liquid in which magnetic nanoparticles such as Fe3O4 are dispersed in a nonconductive solution, and the average diameter of the nanoparticles is 10 nm. When a magnetic field is applied, the ferrofluid generates magnetization, which changes the physical properties of the fluid itself. In this study, characteristics of the thermomagnetic convection of ferrofluid (Fe3O4) by the permanent magnet in the enclosure channel were studied. To effectively mix the ferrofluid (Fe3O4) and disturb the boundary layer, the heat dissipation of the heat source depending on the strength of the magnetic field and the shape of the enclosure channel was numerically studied. In particular, four different enclosure channels were considered: Square, separated square, circle, and separated circle. The hot temperature was set at the center of the enclosure channel. The ferrofluid was affected by the permanent magnet in the center of the channel. The magnetic field strength in the region close to the permanent magnet was enhanced. The magnetophoretic (MAP) force increased with increasing magnetic field strength. The MAP force generated a vortex in the enclosure channel, disturbing the thermal boundary. The vortex occurs differently, depending on the shape of the enclosure channel and affects the thermomagnetic convection. The temperature and velocity fields for thermomagnetic convection were described and the convective heat flux was calculated and compared. Results show that when the magnetic field strength was 4000 kA/m and the shape of the enclosure channel was a circle, the maximum convective heat flux of 4.86 × 105 W/m2 was obtained.
Tools and Workflows for Grassroots Li–Cs–Ta (LCT) Pegmatite Exploration
Authors: Steiner Benedikt
Published: August 2019

The increasing demand for green technology and battery metals necessitates a review of geological exploration techniques for Li–Cs–Ta (LCT) pegmatites, which is applicable to the work of mining companies. This paper reviews the main controls of LCT pegmatite genesis relevant to mineral exploration programs and presents a workflow of grassroots exploration techniques, supported by examples from central Europe and Africa. Geological exploration commonly begins with information gathering, desktop studies and Geographic Information System (GIS) data reviews. Following the identification of prospective regional areas, initial targets are verified in the field by geological mapping and geochemical sampling. Detailed mineralogical analysis and geochemical sampling of rock, soil and stream sediments represent the most important tools for providing vectors to LCT pegmatites, since the interpretation of mineralogical phases, deportment and liberation characteristics along with geochemical K/Rb, Nb/Ta and Zr/Hf metallogenic markers can detect highly evolved rocks enriched in incompatible elements of economic interest. The importance of JORC (Joint Ore Reserves Committee) 2012 guidelines with regards to obtaining geological, mineralogical and drilling data is discussed and contextualised, with the requirement of treating LCT pegmatites as industrial mineral deposits.
Potentially Toxic Elements in Ultramafic Soils: A Study from Metamorphic Ophiolites of the Voltri Massif (Western Alps, Italy)
Authors: Marescotti Pietro , Comodi Paola , Crispini Laura , Gigli Lara , Zucchini Azzurra , Fornasaro Silvia
Published: August 2019

Ultramafic soils are characterized by severe edaphic conditions induced by a low content of essential nutrients, an adverse Ca/Mg ratio, a low water-holding capacity, and high contents of geogenic potentially toxic elements (PTEs), in particular Cr, Ni, and Co. These metals commonly exceed the content limits set by environmental agencies and governments, representing serious environmental risks for ecosystems and human health. In alpine environments, ultramafic soils are characterized by modest thickness and poor horizon differentiation. Several studies on ultramafic soils have shown that their properties may be directly related to the characteristics of the parent rocks, but most of these studies deal with soil chemistry, metal availability, isotopic composition, and pedological characterization. The aim of this research is to investigate how much the geotectonic characteristics of ultramafic bedrocks, such as the degree of serpentinization, metamorphic imprint, and deformation, may affect the mineralogical and chemical variations of ultramafic soils, including the occurrence and potential mobility of the PTEs. Using a multiscale and multi-analytical approach, we fully characterize the properties and mineralogical composition of soil profiles with different ultramafic parent rocks, i.e., partially serpentinized peridotite, massive serpentinites, and foliated serpentinites, sampled within the Voltri Massif High Pressure–Low Temperature (HP–LT) metaophiolite (Western Alps, Italy). Our results, related to soils located at comparable latitude, altitude, landscape position, and pedological environment, outline that the degree of serpentinization, the metamorphic imprint, and the deformation history of the ultramafic parent rocks are key factors influencing soil evolution, mineralogy, and chemistry, as well as PTEs distribution and mobility. Moreover, this study shows that the high content of Cr, Ni, and Co in the studied ultramafic soils has to be considered of geogenic origin and highlights the need for new approaches and methods to obtain indications on the potential contamination of natural or anthropogenic soils.
Optimization of Degradation Conditions with PRG, a Polysaccharide from Phellinus ribis, by RSM and the Neuroprotective Activity in PC12 Cells Damaged by Aβ25–35
Authors: Yang Pei , Jin Juan , Liu Qian , Ma Dongmei , Li Jia , Zhang Yongqing , Liu Yuhong
Published: August 2019

In the previous work, we found PRG, a polysaccharide from Phellinus ribis, exhibited neurotrophic activity. To obtain an active structural unit with lower molecular weight, PRG was degraded to prepare the degraded PRG (DPRG) using ascorbic acid and H2O2. The aim of the paper was to obtain DPRG by optimizing the degradation conditions using response surface methodology (RSM) and to study its protective effects of PC12 cells induced by Aβ25–35. The optimum conditions were as follows; the concentration of H2O2-Vc was 17 mM and degradation temperature was 50 °C; when degradation time was 1.6 h, the experimental response value of PC12 cell viability was 83.4 ± 0.15%, which was in accordance with the predicted value (83.5%). We also studied the protective effects of DPRG against the Aβ25–35-induced neurotoxicity and explored the underlying mechanism. The results showed that treatment with DPRG could attenuate PC12 cells death. The mechanism was relative to the inhibition of cell apoptosis by increasing the MMP level and decreasing the protein expression of cytochrome C (Cytc) in PC12 cells. In conclusion, DPRG with lower molecular weight was obtained successfully. It possessed neuroprotective properties and might be a candidate for neurodegenerative disease treatment.
Nitrogen Self-Doped Activated Carbons Derived from Bamboo Shoots as Adsorbent for Methylene Blue Adsorption
Authors: Mi Bingbing , Wang Jingxin , Xiang Hongzhong , Liang Fang , Yang Jianfei , Feng Zixing , Zhang Tao , Hu Wanhe , Liu Xianmiao , Liu Zhijia , Fei Benhua
Published: August 2019

Bamboo shoots, a promising renewable biomass, mainly consist of carbohydrates and other nitrogen-related compounds, such as proteins, amino acids and nucleotides. In this work, nitrogen self-doped activated carbons derived from bamboo shoots were prepared via a simultaneous carbonization and activation process. The adsorption properties of the prepared samples were evaluated by removing methylene blue from waste water. The factors that affect the adsorption process were examined, including initial concentration, contact time and pH of methylene blue solution. The resulting that BSNC-800-4 performed better in methylene blue removal from waste water, due to its high specific surface area (2270.9 m2 g−1), proper pore size (2.19 nm) and relatively high nitrogen content (1.06%). Its equilibrium data were well fitted to Langmuir isotherm model with a maximum monolayer adsorption capacity of 458 mg g−1 and a removal efficiency of 91.7% at methylene blue concentration of 500 mg L−1. The pseudo-second-order kinetic model could be used to accurately estimate the carbon material’s (BSNC-800-4) adsorption process. The adsorption mechanism between methylene blue solution and BSNC-800-4 was controlled by film diffusion. This study provides an alternative way to develop nitrogen self-doped activated carbons to better meet the needs of the adsorption applications.
Recent Advances in Conjugated Graft Copolymers: Approaches and Applications
Authors: Jarosz Tomasz , Gebka Karolina , Stolarczyk Agnieszka
Published: August 2019

The main goal of this mini review is to summarise the most recent progress in the field of conjugated graft copolymers featuring conjugation across the main chain, across side chains or across both. The main approaches to the synthesis of conjugated graft copolymers are highlighted, and the various trends in the development of new copolymer materials and the intended directions of their applications are explored.
Assignment Through Chiroptical Methods of The Absolute Configuration of Fungal Dihydropyranpyran-4-5-Diones Phytotoxins, Potential Herbicides for Buffelgrass (Cenchrus ciliaris) Biocontrol
Authors: Santoro Ernesto , Mazzeo Giuseppe , Marsico Giulia , Masi Marco , Longhi Giovanna , Superchi Stefano , Evidente Antonio , Abbate Sergio
Published: August 2019

Radicinin and cochliotoxin (1 and 2) two phytotoxic pyranpyran-4,5-diones were isolated together with their close metabolites 3-epi-radicinin, radicinol, and its 3-epimer (3–5), from the culture filtrates of Cochliobolus australiensis, a fungus proposed as mycoherbcide for biocontrol of buffelgrass, a very noxious and dangerous weed. The absolute configuration of cochliotoxin was determined by chiroptical Optical Rotatory Dispersion (ORD), Electronic Circular Dichroism (ECD), and Vibrational Circular Dichroism (VCD)) and computational methods. The same methods were used to confirm that of radicinin, radicinol and their 3-epimers, previously determined with chemical, spectroscopic and ECD methods.
Synthesis and In Vitro Anti-Toxoplasma gondii Activity of Novel Thiazolidin-4-one Derivatives
Authors: Trotsko Nazar , Bekier Adrian , Paneth Agata , Wujec Monika , Dzitko Katarzyna
Published: August 2019

Recent findings on the biological activity of thiazolidin-4-ones and taking into account the lack of effective drugs used in the treatment of toxoplasmosis, their numerous side effects, as well as the problem of drug resistance of parasites prompted us to look for new agents. We designed and synthesized a series of new thiazolidin-4-one derivatives through a two-step reaction between 4-substituted thiosemicarbazides with hydroxybenzaldehydes followed by the treatment with ethyl bromoacetate; maleic anhydride and dimethyl acetylenedicarboxylate afforded target compounds. The thiazolidin-4-one derivatives were used to assess the inhibition of Toxoplasma gondii growth in vitro. All active thiazolidine-4-one derivatives (12 compounds) inhibited T. gondii proliferation in vitro much better than used references drugs both sulfadiazine as well as the synergistic effect of sulfadiazine + trimethoprim (weight ratio 5:1). Most active among them derivatives 94 and 95 showed inhibition of proliferation at about 392-fold better than sulfadiazine and 18-fold better than sulfadiazine with trimethoprim. All active compounds (82–88 and 91–95) against T. gondii represent values from 1.75 to 15.86 (CC30/IC50) lower than no cytotoxic value (CC30).
The Synthesis of New Thermal Stable Schiff Base/Ester Liquid Crystals: A Computational, Mesomorphic, and Optical Study
Authors: Nafee Sherif , Hagar Mohamed , Ahmed Hoda , El-Shishtawy Reda , Raffah Bahaaudin
Published: August 2019

A Schiff base supramolecular 4-[(4-(hexyloxy)phenylimino)methyl]benzoic acid and a new series of Schiff base/ester linkages named 4-substitutedphenyl 4-[(4-(hexyloxy)phenylimino)methyl]benzoate liquid crystals were synthesized. The thermal stability, mesomorphic, and optical behavior of the prepared compounds were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Thermogravemetric analysis (TGA), polarized optical microscopy (POM), and UV spectroscopy. FT-IR, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, and elemental analyses were carried out to elucidate and confirm the molecular structures of the synthesized compounds. The investigated series comprising different sized terminal polar groups changed between CH(CH3)2, H, I, and F. It was found that the supramolecular imino acid dimer is enantiotropic dimorphic, with a wide SmA phase and a good N phase range. The other series of terminally substituted Schiff base/esters are mesomorphic with a high thermal stable SmA phase, except the iodo derivative, which showed dimorphic SmA and N phases. The effect of the position and the orientation of the cores, as well as the terminal substituent of the type and the stability of the mesophase, were studied. A computational theoretical study of the effects of the van der Waal’s volume, the Hammett substituent coefficient, the inductive sigma constant, and other geometrical parameters were discussed. The study revealed that the planarity of the two phenyl rings attached with an imino linking group impacted the resonance effect of the terminal substituents rather than their inductive effect. A detailed study on the effect of the estimated thermal parameters, as well as their geometrical planarity with the type and stability of the formed mesophase, was discussed.
Synthesis of Uracil-Iodonium(III) Salts for Practical Utilization as Nucleobase Synthetic Modules
Authors: Takenaga Naoko , Hayashi Takumi , Ueda Shohei , Satake Hiroyuki , Yamada Yoichi , Kodama Tetsuya , Dohi Toshifumi
Published: August 2019

Iodonium(III) salts bearing uracil moieties have recently appeared in the literature, but their structural scope and utilization are limited because of their hygroscopic characteristics. In this study, we describe our detailed investigations for synthesizing a series of uracil iodonium(III) salts derived with various structural motifs and counterions. These new compounds have been utilized as attractive synthetic modules in constructing functionalized nucleobase and nucleosides.
Terpenoids of the Swamp Cypress Subfamily (Taxodioideae), Cupressaceae, an Overview by GC-MS
Authors: Simoneit Bernd R. T. , Otto Angelika , Oros Daniel R. , Kusumoto Norihisa
Published: August 2019

The resins bled from stems and in seed cones and leaves of Cryptomeria japonica, Glyptostrobus pensilis, Taxodium distichum, and T. mucronatum were characterized to provide an overview of their major natural product compositions. The total solvent extract solutions were analyzed as the free and derivatized products by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry to identify the compounds, which comprised minor mono- and sesquiterpenoids, and dominant di- and triterpenoids, plus aliphatic lipids (e.g., n-nonacosan-10-ol). Ferruginol, 7α-p-cymenylferruginol, and chamaecydin were the major characteristic markers for the Taxodioideae conifer subfamily. The mass spectrometric data can aid polar compound elucidation in environmental, geological, archeological, forensic and pharmaceutical studies.
Data-Driven Lexical Normalization for Medical Social
Media
Authors: Dirkson Anne , Verberne Suzan , Sarker Abeed , Kraaij Wessel
Published: August 2019

In the medical domain, user-generated social media text is increasingly used as a valuablecomplementary knowledge source to scientific medical literature. The extraction of this knowledge iscomplicated by colloquial language use and misspellings. However, lexical normalization of suchdata has not been addressed effectively. This paper presents a data-driven lexical normalizationpipeline with a novel spelling correction module for medical social media. Our method significantlyoutperforms state-of-the-art spelling correction methods and can detect mistakes with an F1 of 0.63despite extreme imbalance in the data. We also present the first corpus for spelling mistake detectionand correction in a medical patient forum.
Inexpensive Graphene Oxide Heaters Lithographed by Laser
Authors: Romero Francisco J. , Rivadeneyra Almudena , Ortiz-Gomez Inmaculada , Salinas Alfonso , Godoy Andrés , Morales Diego P. , Rodriguez Noel
Published: August 2019

In this paper, we present a simple and inexpensive method for the fabrication of high-performance graphene-based heaters on different large-scale substrates through the laser photothermal reduction of graphene oxide (laser-reduced graphene-oxide, LrGO). This method allows an efficient and localized high level of reduction and therefore a good electrical conductivity of the treated films. The performance of the heaters is studied in terms of steady-state temperature, power consumption, and time response for different substrates and sizes. The results show that the LrGO heaters can achieve stable steady-state temperatures higher than 200 °C when a voltage of 15 V is applied, featuring a time constant of around 4 s and a heat transfer coefficient of ~200 °C cm2/W. These characteristics are compared with other technologies in this field, demonstrating that the fabrication approach described in this work is competitive and promising to fabricate large-scale flexible heaters with a very fast response and high steady-state temperatures in a cost-effective way. This technology can be easily combined with other fabrication methods, such as screen printing or spray-deposition, for the manufacturing of complete sensing systems where the temperature control is required to adjust functionalities or to tune sensitivity or selectivity.
Robust Polymer Nanocomposite Membranes Incorporating Discrete TiO2 Nanotubes for Water Treatment
Authors: Mahdi Najia , Kumar Pawan , Goswami Ankur , Perdicakis Basil , Shankar Karthik , Sadrzadeh Mohtada
Published: August 2019

Polyethersulfone (PES) is a polymeric permeable material used in ultrafiltration (UF) membranes due to its high thermomechanical and chemical stability. The hydrophobic nature of PES membranes renders them prone to fouling and restricts the practical applications of PES in the fabrication of water treatment membranes. The present study demonstrates a non-solvent-induced phase separation (NIPS) approach to modifying PES membranes with different concentrations of discrete TiO2 nanotubes (TNTs). Zeta potential and contact angle measurements showed enhanced hydrophilicity and surface negative charge in TNTs/PES nanocomposite membranes compared to unmodified PES membranes. To discern the antifouling and permeation properties of the TNTs/PES membranes, steam assisted gravity drainage (SAGD) wastewater obtained from the Athabasca oil sands of Alberta was used. The TiO2 modified polymer nanocomposite membranes resulted in a higher organic matter rejection and water flux than the unmodified PES membrane. The addition of discrete TNTs at 1 wt% afforded maximum water flux (82 L/m2 h at 40 psi), organic matter rejection (53.9%), and antifouling properties (29% improvement in comparison to pristine PES membrane). An enhancement in fouling resistance of TNTs/PES nanocomposite membranes was observed in flux recovery ratio experiments.
Role of Glutathionylation in Infection and Inflammation
Authors: Checconi Paola , Limongi Dolores , Baldelli Sara , Ciriolo Maria Rosa , Nencioni Lucia , Palamara Anna Teresa
Published: August 2019

Glutathionylation, that is, the formation of mixed disulfides between protein cysteines and glutathione (GSH) cysteines, is a reversible post-translational modification catalyzed by different cellular oxidoreductases, by which the redox state of the cell modulates protein function. So far, most studies on the identification of glutathionylated proteins have focused on cellular proteins, including proteins involved in host response to infection, but there is a growing number of reports showing that microbial proteins also undergo glutathionylation, with modification of their characteristics and functions. In the present review, we highlight the signaling role of GSH through glutathionylation, particularly focusing on microbial (viral and bacterial) glutathionylated proteins (GSSPs) and host GSSPs involved in the immune/inflammatory response to infection; moreover, we discuss the biological role of the process in microbial infections and related host responses.