bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of the Learning Process through Eye Tracking Technology and Feature Selection Techniques
Authors: Sáiz-Manzanares María Consuelo , Pérez Ismael Ramos , Rodríguez Adrián Arnaiz , Arribas Sandra Rodríguez , Almeida Leandro , Martin Caroline Françoise
Published: July 2021

In recent decades, the use of technological resources such as the eye tracking methodology is providing cognitive researchers with important tools to better understand the learning process. However, the interpretation of the metrics requires the use of supervised and unsupervised learning techniques. The main goal of this study was to analyse the results obtained with the eye tracking methodology by applying statistical tests and supervised and unsupervised machine learning techniques, and to contrast the effectiveness of each one. The parameters of fixations, saccades, blinks and scan path, and the results in a puzzle task were found. The statistical study concluded that no significant differences were found between participants in solving the crossword puzzle task; significant differences were only detected in the parameters saccade amplitude minimum and saccade velocity minimum. On the other hand, this study, with supervised machine learning techniques, provided possible features for analysis, some of them different from those used in the statistical study. Regarding the clustering techniques, a good fit was found between the algorithms used (k-means ++, fuzzy k-means and DBSCAN). These algorithms provided the learning profile of the participants in three types (students over 50 years old; and students and teachers under 50 years of age). Therefore, the use of both types of data analysis is considered complementary.
Characterizations of a Plasma-Water System Generated by Repetitive Microsecond Pulsed Discharge with Air, Nitrogen, Oxygen, and Argon Gases Species
Authors: Bolouki Nima , Kuan Wen-Hui , Huang Yu-Yun , Hsieh Jang-Hsing
Published: July 2021

A non-thermal plasma-water system using a microsecond pulsed high-voltage power supply was investigated with air, nitrogen, oxygen, and argon gas feedings individually. Optical emission spectroscopy (OES) was utilized to characterize the primary active species inside the plasmas generated by different gas feedings. The OES method was also employed to estimate the neutral gas and electron temperatures. The pH and the oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) of plasma-activated water (PAW) were measured in the liquid phase. An ion chromatography system (ICS) was employed to present the PAW activity, such as nitrite and nitrate species. Moreover, hydrogen peroxide as a secondary active species inside the activated water, generated by the gases mentioned above, was measured by potassium permanganate titration. It was found that the gas species have a noticeable effect on the pH level as well as the ORP of PAW. In the cases of argon and oxygen plasmas, the pH level of PAW does not change significantly. In contrast, the pH values of PAW generated by air and nitrogen plasmas decline sharply during the treatment time. Moreover, the gas species have a significant impact on the concentrations of nitrite, nitrate, and hydrogen peroxide generated in PAW. The activated water generated by oxygen plasma provides the highest level of hydrogen peroxide. Although the consumed power of argon plasmas was half of the other plasma sources, it provides relatively high hydrogen peroxide contents compared to the nitrogen and air plasmas.
Influence of Plasma Activated Water Generated in a Gliding Arc Discharge Reactor on Germination of Beetroot and Carrot Seeds
Authors: Terebun Piotr , Kwiatkowski Michał , Hensel Karol , Kopacki Marek , Pawłat Joanna
Published: July 2021

One of the new methods of protecting and supporting plant growth is the use of low-temperature plasma. The aim of this study is to evaluate the feasibility of using plasma activated water produced in an atmospheric pressure gliding arc reactor for germination of beetroot (Beta vulgaris) and carrot (Daucus carota) seeds. The study was carried out for different plasma treatment times of water (5, 10 and 20 min) and with fixed geometry and power of the discharge system, using air as the working gas. The effect on germination was evaluated based on the fraction of germinated seeds and their length at 7 and 14 days after treatment. Analysis of fungi present on the seed surface and imaging of the seed surface using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were auxiliary methods to evaluate the type of treatment effect. In the case of beetroot, a positive effect on the number and length of germinated seeds was observed, which increased with increasing treatment time. This effect can be attributed, among other things, to the surface changes observed on microscopic photographs. In the case of carrot seeds, a more significant positive effect on germination was observed. Fungal decontamination effect was relatively weaker than with the use of the chemical method with sodium hypochlorite.
Real-World Vehicle Volatile Organic Compound Emissions and Their Source Profile in Chengdu Based on a Roadside and Tunnel Study
Authors: Feng Miao , Hu Xiang , Zhou Li , Zhang Tianyue , Zhang Xiao , Tan Qinwen , Zhou Zihang , Deng Ye , Song Danlin , Huang Chengmin
Published: July 2021

With the continuous progress of air pollution prevention and control in China, the study of the emission characteristics of vehicles has become increasingly important. An in situ experiment was performed in the Tianfu tunnel in Chengdu to determine the vehicle emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). A total of 50 species of VOCs were quantified in the tunnel, with total concentrations in the range of 32.25–162.18 ppbv in the entrance and 52.90–233.92 ppbv in the exit, respectively. Alkanes were the most abundant group, followed by alkenes, aromatic hydrocarbons, oxygenated VOCs, alkynes and chlorocarbons. The general emission factors of the measured VOCs ranged from 141.71 mg veh−1 km−1 to 236.12 mg veh−1 km−1, and the average ± std was 177.31 ± 24.59 mg veh−1 km−1. The emission factors of diesel-fuelled vehicles, gasoline-fuelled vehicles and natural gas-fuelled vehicles were estimated based on linear regression analysis, with values of 272.39 ± 191.17 mg veh−1 km−1, 185.08 ± 12.85 mg veh−1 km−1 and 158.72 ± 3.21 mg veh−1 km−1, respectively. The results of roadside experiments indicate that the roadside ambience atmosphere contains many species characterized with vehicle emission features. Especially, there were fuel evaporation emission related substances, which were higher in content than tunnel samples.
Deficit Irrigation Using Saline Water of Fruit Trees under Water Scarcity Conditions of Southern Tunisia
Authors: El Mokh Fathia , Nagaz Kamel , Masmoudi Mohamed Moncef , Ben Mechlia Netij , Ghiglieri Giorgio
Published: July 2021

Both water scarcity and salinity are major obstacles for crop production in arid parts of Tunisia and require adoption of strategies aimed at improving water-use efficiency. Field experiments on deficit irrigation (DI) of table olive, orange trees, and grapevines with saline water (2 dS·m−1) were conducted in the arid region of Médenine, Tunisia. Three irrigation treatments were compared with the farmer’s method (FM) over two years (2013–2014): deficit irrigation (DI75) and (DI50), which received 75% and 50% less water than full irrigation (FI), respectively, and full compensation of the crop evapotranspiration (FI). Measurements included seasonal changes in soil water content, soil salinity, yield, fruit quality, and economic return. Results showed that in-season water limitations, roughly between 700–250 mm, caused significant reductions in yield and fruit weight, but improved the total soluble solids of fruits. Under FI, DI75, DI50, and FM, average yields were 26.6, 20.1, 14.7, and 21.2 t·ha−1 for orange, 4.5, 4.0, 3.1, and 3.5 t·ha−1 for table olive, and 3.8, 3.4, 3.1, and 3.5 t·ha−1 for grapevine, respectively. Soil salinity build up increased linearly with decreasing irrigation water. Irrigation water productivity (IWP), although lowest for FM, was relatively high (3.30–4.30 kg·m−3 for orange, 0.65–1.20 kg·m−3 for table olive, and 0.74–1.30 kg·m−3 for grapevine). Economic evaluation showed that the FI strategy generated the greatest net income (1800–6630 USD·ha−1), followed by DI75 (1350–3940 USD·ha−1), FM (844–4340 USD·ha−1), and DI50 (600–2400 USD·ha−1). The results show an important potential for reasonably sustaining farmer’s income under increased water scarcity.
Searching for Scientific Explanations for the Uses of Spanish Folk Medicine: A Review on the Case of Mullein (Verbascum, Scrophulariaceae)
Authors: Blanco-Salas José , Hortigón-Vinagre María P. , Morales-Jadán Diana , Ruiz-Téllez Trinidad
Published: July 2021

Verbascum species (common mullein) have been widely used in Spanish folk medicine to treat pathologies related to the musculature, skeleton, and circulatory, digestive, and respiratory systems, as well as to treat infectious diseases and organ-sense illnesses. These applications support the potential anti-inflammatory action of Verbascum phytochemicals. Based on the aforementioned facts, and following a deep bibliographic review of the chemical composition of the 10 species of Verbascum catalogued by the Spanish Inventory of Traditional Knowledge related to Biodiversity, we look for scientific evidences to correlate the traditional medical uses with the chemical components of these plants. To support these findings, in silico simulations were performed to investigate molecular interactions between Verbascum phytochemicals and cellular components. Most of common mullein traditional uses could rely on the anti-inflammatory action of phytochemicals, such as quercetin, and it could explain the employment of these plants to treat a wide range of diseases mediated by inflammatory processes such as respiratory diseases, otitis, arthrosis, and rheumatism among others.
Agarose vs. Methacrylate as Material Supports for Enzyme Immobilization and Continuous Processing
Authors: Benítez-Mateos Ana I. , Contente Martina L.
Published: July 2021

Enzyme immobilization has become a key strategy to improve the stability and recycling of biocatalysts, resulting in greener and more cost-efficient processes. The design of the immobilized catalysts is often focused only on the immobilization strategy, the binding chemistry between the enzyme and the support, while less attention has been paid to the physico-chemical properties of material supports. Selecting the best carrier for a specific application may greatly influence the performance of the biocatalytic reaction. Herein, we present a comparative study between the two most used material supports for protein immobilization, agarose and methacrylate. Hydrophilic agarose microbeads ensure higher retained enzymatic activity and better catalyst performance when hydrophobic compounds are involved in the biotransformation. Due to the high stickiness, lipophilic molecules represent a major limitation for methacrylate carriers. O2-dependent reactions, in contrast, must be carried out by immobilized enzymes on methacrylate supports due to the low mechanical stability of agarose under dehydration conditions. All these parameters were tested with a special focus on continuous-flow applications.
A Case of Unilateral Hyperpigmentation
Authors: Han Yujin , Lee Se-Hoon , Cho Minah , Cho Sang-Hyun , Lee Jeong-Deuk , Woo Yu-Ri , Kim Hei-Sung
Published: July 2021

Phytophotodermatitis is a cutaneous phototoxic reaction resulting from contact with plant compounds such as furocoumarin in citrus fruits, followed by exposure to ultraviolet light. Erythema and vesicles appear on the contact area, followed by hyperpigmented lesions. Hyperpigmentation may exist for weeks to months before fading but can remain up to several years. Diagnosis is often challenging due to the variety of clinical presentations, and it is not always easy to identify trigger exposures. A detailed history is key to diagnosis. We herein report a case of lime-induced phytophotodermatitis which was initially mistaken for unilateral lentiginosis. The patient underwent Q-switched Nd:YAG laser and intense pulsed light (IPL) treatment with immediate improvement.
Liquid Biopsy Is a Promising Tool for Genetic Testing in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
Authors: Pallante Pierlorenzo , Malapelle Umberto , Nacchio Mariantonia , Sgariglia Roberta , Galati Domenico , Capitelli Ludovica , Zanotta Serena , Galgani Mario , Piemonte Erica , Sanduzzi Zamparelli Alessandro , Rea Gaetano , Bocchino Marialuisa
Published: July 2021

Liquid biopsy, which allows the isolation of circulating cell-free (ccf) DNA from blood, is an emerging noninvasive tool widely used in oncology for diagnostic and prognosis purposes. Previous data have shown that serum cfDNA discriminates idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) from other interstitial lung diseases. Our study aimed to measure plasma levels of ccfDNA in 59 consecutive therapy-naive and clinically stable IPF patients. The single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of the MUC5B gene promoter (rs35705950), associated with increased susceptibility of developing IPF, has been sought in plasma cfDNA and genomic DNA for comparison. Thirty-five age- and sex-matched healthy volunteers were recruited as the control group. Our results show that concentrations of small-size ccfDNA fragments were significantly higher in IPF patients than in controls and inversely correlated with lung function deterioration. Moreover, the median level of 104 ng/mL allowed discriminating patients with mild disease from those more advanced. The rs35705950 polymorphism was found in 11.8% of IPF patients and 8% of controls, with no differences. Complete concordance between ccfDNA and genomic DNA was detected in all control samples, while four out of seven IPF cases (57%) carrying the rs35705950 polymorphism were discordant from genomic DNA (7% of total IPF). Liquid biopsy is a suitable tool with optimistic expectations of application in the field of IPF. In analogy with cancer biology, finding some discrepancies between ccfDNA and genomic DNA in IPF patients suggests that the former may convey specific genetic information present in the primary site of the disease.
Measurements of Flammable Gas Concentration in Landfill Areas with a Low-Cost Sensor
Authors: Daugela Ignas , Suziedelyte Visockiene Jurate , Kumpiene Jurate , Suzdalev Ivan
Published: July 2021

Global warming, as the result of the negative impact of humans on climate change, has been observed based on various data sources. Various measures have aimed to reduce anthropogenic factors, and also to lower carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane CH4 emissions. One of the main contributors to anthropogenic factors is organic waste in municipal solid waste landfills. There are many landfills where cost-effective rapid technologies for the identification and quantification of CH4 emission sites are not applied. There is still a need for the development of accessible and cost-effective methods that react in a real-time manner for the rapid detection and monitoring of methane emissions. This paper’s main goal is to create a prototype sensor suitable for operational measurement of the gas value, suitable for integration into geodetic equipment or an unmanned aerial vehicle system. A sensor system (device) was developed, which consisted of three semiconductor sensors—MQ2, MQ4, and MQ135—which aimed to capture flammable gases (CO2, CH4, O2 purity) and to evaluate the averages of the measured values from the components mounted on the board—the semiconductor sensors. The sensors were calibrated in a laboratory and tested in a closed landfill. The measurement data consisted of the read resistances (analog signal) from the MQ2, MQ4, and MQ135 sensors, and the relative humidity and the temperature (digital signal) of the DHT2 sensor with a timestamp calculated by the RTC module. The use of the method was confirmed because the sensors reacted as expected when placed in the vicinity of the gas collection well. Furthermore, the sensor will be tested and improved for field work in landfill sites.
AUSTRET: An Automated Step Response Testing Tool for Building Automation and Control Systems
Authors: Santos Athila , Liu Na , Jradi Muhyiddine
Published: July 2021

Building energy consumption is still one of the main contributions to global carbon emissions. With the overall digitalization in the building sector, building automation and control systems (BACS) are to play a more important and key role in improving the building sector performance. A well-designed BACS at the building design phase with a high level of control functionalities is not a guarantee for efficient building operation and successful control and management strategies in the operational phase. Thus, a systematic automated initial and retro-commissioning process is key to test the performance of the automation system and the response of the integrated HVAC systems. This is an arduous and time-consuming task susceptible to human errors. As an alternative, the current study proposes a methodological framework to automate step response testing of BACS and to optimize the different steps of this process in a cost-effective way. In addition to newly built buildings, the framework can be applied in existing or retrofitted medium to large-sized buildings that have a building management system capable of receiving actuator commands and responsible to provide updates of several state variables. Based on the proposed framework, a first-of-its kind tool “AUSTRET” for building automated step response testing of BACS is designed and developed. The tool provides the necessary input configuring parameters, building system selection, and output results for each performed test. The framework aims to act upon ventilation, room heating and cooling, and water heating and cooling modules in a building. The implementation and demonstration of the AUSTRET in a medium-sized building case study for two different building systems are presented and evaluated: (1) Ventilation/fan, (2) Room heating. The results show the different dynamic responses on these two systems and how misleading input parameter configuration can invalidate step response tests. The preliminary results highlight the capability of using AUSTRET as a key component in both building initial and retro-commissioning applications.
Validation of Modified Algebraic Model during Transitional Flow in HVAC Duct
Authors: Nering Konrad , Nering Krzysztof
Published: July 2021

Airflow occurring in a ventilation duct is characterized by low velocity and hence low Reynolds number. In these conditions, either a laminar, transitional or turbulent flow will occur. Different flow conditions result in different values of the friction coefficient. To achieve the transitional flow in numerical simulation, a modified algebraic model for bypass transition (modified k−ω) was used. Numerical simulation was validated using Particle Tracking Velocimetry (PTV) in the circular channel. The modified algebraic model consists of only two partial differential equations, which leads to much faster calculation than the shear stress transport model. Results of the modified algebraic model are largely consistent with either the measurement and shear stress transport model considering laminar and transitional flow. Consistency slightly decreased in turbulent flow in relation to the model using shear stress transport method.
Efficient and Robust Image Communication Techniques for 5G Applications in Smart Cities
Authors: Kansal Lavish , Gaba Gurjot Singh , Chilamkurti Naveen , Kim Byung-Gyu
Published: July 2021

A wide range of multimedia applications must be supported by the modern fifth generation (5G) wireless communication systems for realizing the diverse applications in smart cities. The diverse applications such as real-time monitoring of roads, smart homes, smart industries, etc., for a sustainable smart city emphasizes a robust and efficient image transmission. In this paper, the influence of maximal ratio combining (MRC) on the reception of images with different orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) versions is studied. The different OFDM versions considered here are the fast Fourier transform (FFT) based OFDM and discrete cosine transform (DCT) based OFDM. A comparison between diverse modulation levels for the images transmitted through different OFDM methodologies, along with variation in a number of receiving antennas for MRC, is proposed for additive white gaussian noise (AWGN) and Rayleigh fading channels. The diverse modulation levels used are binary phase shift keying (BPSK), quadrature phase shift keying (QPSK), 8-PSK, and 16-PSK. The parameters that are used to compare different versions of OFDM for MRC antenna configurations are signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) vs. bit error rate (BER) and peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) at the receiver as an estimation parameter for the received image quality.
Overview of Degrees of Freedom in the Design of PM Synchronous Machines
Authors: Amara Yacine , Hlioui Sami , Gabsi Mohamed
Published: July 2021

This contribution discusses the degrees of freedom that could be advantageously exploited in the conception of permanent magnet (PM) machines in the context of very demanding applications, such as electrical vehicle traction. The aim is to inventory degrees of freedom identified in scientific and technical literatures. Identifying these additional degrees of freedom will help positively respond to highly constrained design problems, which are appearing due to the higher usage of electrical energy in many industrial and consumer products. The goal is also to stimulate new ideas in the design of PM synchronous machines.
The Impact of Urban Development Intensity on Ecological Carrying Capacity: A Case Study of Ecologically Fragile Areas
Authors: Hu Jinjing , Huang Yong , Du Jie
Published: July 2021

In ecologically fragile areas, an uncontrolled increase in urban development intensity (UDI) will erode the ecological carrying capacity (ECC). This study aimed to explore the relationship between UDI and ECC and quantify the impacts of UDI on ECC. The Three Gorges Reservoir Area (Chongqing section) was chosen for the case study. Firstly, the UDI and ECC were comprehensively evaluated. Then, the coupling coordination relationship between the two was analyzed by a coupling coordination degree model. Finally, the influences of UDI on the coordinated development of the two were analyzed by a geographically weighted regression model. The results show that the distributions of UDI and ECC are opposite; UDI and ECC are mutually restricted to some extent. UDI and ECC are moderately coupled and poorly coordinated, and a higher UDI is mostly correlated to a higher coordination degree of UDI and ECC. In areas with higher UDI, an appropriate control on population and economy may benefit the coordinated development. Meanwhile, in areas with lower UDI, the promotion of population aggregation and economic investment would enhance the coordinated development between UDI and ECC. This study could optimize the dimensional control of UDI, which contributes to the long-term sustainability of ecologically fragile areas.
Identification of Novel miRNAs and Their Target Genes in the Response to Abscisic Acid in Arabidopsis
Authors: Mehdi Syed Muhammad Muntazir , Krishnamoorthy Sivakumar , Szczesniak Michal Wojciech , Ludwików Agnieszka
Published: July 2021

miRNAs are involved in various biological processes, including adaptive responses to abiotic stress. To understand the role of miRNAs in the response to ABA, ABA-responsive miRNAs were identified by small RNA sequencing in wild-type Arabidopsis, as well as in abi1td, mkkk17, and mkkk18 mutants. We identified 10 novel miRNAs in WT after ABA treatment, while in abi1td, mkkk17, and mkkk18 mutants, three, seven, and nine known miRNAs, respectively, were differentially expressed after ABA treatment. One novel miRNA (miRn-8) was differentially expressed in the mkkk17 mutant. Potential target genes of the miRNA panel were identified using psRNATarget. Sequencing results were validated by quantitative RT-PCR of several known and novel miRNAs in all genotypes. Of the predicted targets of novel miRNAs, seven target genes of six novel miRNAs were further validated by 5′ RLM-RACE. Gene ontology analyses showed the potential target genes of ABA-responsive known and novel miRNAs to be involved in diverse cellular processes in plants, including development and stomatal movement. These outcomes suggest that a number of the identified miRNAs have crucial roles in plant responses to environmental stress, as well as in plant development, and might have common regulatory roles in the core ABA signaling pathway.
Transcriptional Modulation of the Hippo Signaling Pathway by Drugs Used to Treat Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia
Authors: Panizzutti Bruna , Bortolasci Chiara C. , Spolding Briana , Kidnapillai Srisaiyini , Connor Timothy , Richardson Mark F. , Truong Trang T. T. , Liu Zoe S. J. , Morris Gerwyn , Gray Laura , Hyun Kim Jee , Dean Olivia M. , Berk Michael , Walder Ken
Published: July 2021

Recent reports suggest a link between positive regulation of the Hippo pathway with bipolar disorder (BD), and the Hippo pathway is known to interact with multiple other signaling pathways previously associated with BD and other psychiatric disorders. In this study, neuronal-like NT2 cells were treated with amisulpride (10 µM), aripiprazole (0.1 µM), clozapine (10 µM), lamotrigine (50 µM), lithium (2.5 mM), quetiapine (50 µM), risperidone (0.1 µM), valproate (0.5 mM), or vehicle control for 24 h. Genome-wide mRNA expression was quantified and analyzed using gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), with genes belonging to Hippo, Wnt, Notch, TGF- β, and Hedgehog retrieved from the KEGG database. Five of the eight drugs downregulated the genes of the Hippo pathway and modulated several genes involved in the interacting pathways. We speculate that the regulation of these genes, especially by aripiprazole, clozapine, and quetiapine, results in a reduction of MAPK and NFκB pro-inflammatory signaling through modulation of Hippo, Wnt, and TGF-β pathways. We also employed connectivity map analysis to identify compounds that act on these pathways in a similar manner to the known psychiatric drugs. Thirty-six compounds were identified. The presence of antidepressants and antipsychotics validates our approach and reveals possible new targets for drug repurposing.
Influence of a High-Impact Multidimensional Rehabilitation Program on the Gut Microbiota of Patients with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Barone Monica , Mendozzi Laura , D’Amico Federica , Saresella Marina , Rampelli Simone , Piancone Federica , La Rosa Francesca , Marventano Ivana , Clerici Mario , d’Arma Alessia , Pugnetti Luigi , Rossi Valentina , Candela Marco , Brigidi Patrizia , Turroni Silvia
Published: July 2021

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurodegenerative inflammatory condition mediated by autoreactive immune processes. Due to its potential to influence host immunity and gut-brain communication, the gut microbiota has been suggested to be involved in the onset and progression of MS. To date, there is no definitive cure for MS, and rehabilitation programs are of the utmost importance, especially in the later stages. However, only a few people generally participate due to poor support, knowledge, and motivation, and no information is available on gut microbiota changes. Herein we evaluated the potential of a brief high-impact multidimensional rehabilitation program (B-HIPE) in a leisure environment to affect the gut microbiota, mitigate MS symptoms and improve quality of life. B-HIPE resulted in modulation of the MS-typical dysbiosis, with reduced levels of pathobionts and the replenishment of beneficial short-chain fatty acid producers. This partial recovery of a eubiotic profile could help counteract the inflammatory tone typically observed in MS, as supported by reduced circulating lipopolysaccharide levels and decreased populations of pro-inflammatory lymphocytes. Improved physical performance and fatigue relief were also found. Our findings pave the way for integrating clinical practice with holistic approaches to mitigate MS symptoms and improve patients’ quality of life.
Upregulated Chemokine and Rho-GTPase Genes Define Immune Cell Emigration into Salivary Glands of Sjögren’s Syndrome-Susceptible C57BL/6.NOD-Aec1Aec2 Mice
Authors: Peck Ammon B. , Nguyen Cuong Q. , Ambrus Julian L.
Published: July 2021

The C57BL/6.NOD-Aec1Aec2 mouse is considered a highly appropriate model of Sjögren’s Syndrome (SS), a human systemic autoimmune disease characterized primarily as the loss of lacrimal and salivary gland functions. This mouse model, as well as other mouse models of SS, have shown that B lymphocytes are essential for the development and onset of observed clinical manifestations. More recently, studies carried out in the C57BL/6.IL14α transgenic mouse have indicated that the marginal zone B (MZB) cell population is responsible for development of SS disease, reflecting recent observations that MZB cells are present in the salivary glands of SS patients and most likely initiate the subsequent loss of exocrine functions. Although MZB cells are difficult to study in vivo and in vitro, we have carried out an ex vivo investigation that uses temporal global RNA transcriptomic analyses to profile differentially expressed genes known to be associated with cell migration. Results indicate a temporal upregulation of specific chemokine, chemokine receptor, and Rho-GTPase genes in the salivary glands of C57BL/6.NOD-Aec1Aec2 mice that correlate with the early appearance of periductal lymphocyte infiltrations. Using the power of transcriptomic analyses to better define the genetic profile of lymphocytic emigration into the salivary glands of SS mice, new insights into the underlying mechanisms of SS disease development and onset begin to come into focus, thereby establishing a foundation for further in-depth and novel investigations of the covert and early overt phases of SS disease at the cellular level.
The Effects of Cannabis sativa L. Extract on Oxidative Stress Markers In Vivo
Authors: Kubiliene Asta , Mickute Karolina , Baranauskaite Juste , Marksa Mindaugas , Liekis Arunas , Sadauskiene Ilona
Published: July 2021

In recent decades, a lot of attention has been paid to Cannabis sativa L. due to its useful applications, including in fibers, oil, food for humans and animals, and therapeutics. The present study aimed to determine antioxidant activity of cannabinoids in Cannabis sativa L. in vivo, evaluating the possible antioxidative effect of Cannabis sativa L. extract (CE) on malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) concentrations as well as on catalase (CAT) activity in BALB/c mice. In total, 40 mice were divided into five equal groups: the aluminum group (7.5 mg AlCl3/kg/d (0.15 LD50), the saline group, the 10% ethanol group (an appropriate amount of the solution for mouse weight), the CE group (1.6 mg CE/g/day), and the aluminum-CE group (7.5 mg AlCl3 plus 1.6 mg CE/g/day). The results of the study showed that CE significantly decreased (by 26.81%, p < 0.05) the concentration of GSH in blood of the mice and the concentration of MDA in the brain (by 82.12%) and liver (by 53.5%) of the mice compared to the respective concentrations in the AlCl3 group. CE significantly (p < 0.05) increased CAT activity in the brain (by 64.79%) and liver (by 72.37%) of the mice after the AlCl3-induced prooxidant effect. The results showed the antioxidant activity of cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) in vitro. The findings in vivo indicate that Cannabis sativa L. is a good source of natural antioxidants and can be used in the management of oxidative stress.
Preparation and Properties of Mo Coating on H13 Steel by Electro Spark Deposition Process
Authors: Wang Wenquan , Du Ming , Zhang Xinge , Luan Chengqun , Tian Yingtao
Published: July 2021

H13 steel is often damaged by wear, erosion, and thermal fatigue. It is one of the essential methods to improve the service life of H13 steel by preparing a coating on it. Due to the advantages of high melting point, good wear, and corrosion resistance of Mo, Mo coating was fabricated on H13 steel by electro spark deposition (ESD) process in this study. The influences of the depositing parameters (deposition power, discharge frequency, and specific deposition time) on the roughness of the coating, thickness, and properties were investigated in detail. The optimized depositing parameters were obtained by comparing roughness, thickness, and crack performance of the coating. The results show that the cross-section of the coating mainly consisted of strengthening zone and transition zone. Metallurgical bonding was formed between the coating and substrate. The Mo coating mainly consisted of Fe9.7Mo0.3, Fe-Cr, FeMo, and Fe2Mo cemented carbide phases, and an amorphous phase. The Mo coating had better microhardness, wear, and corrosion resistance than substrate, which could significantly improve the service life of the H13 steel.
Effects of Vanadium on the Structural and Optical Properties of Borate Glasses Containing Er3+ and Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Zaini Nur Adyani , Mohamed Syafawati Nadiah , Mohamed Zakiah
Published: July 2021

The erbium-vanadium co-doped borate glasses, embedded with silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs), were prepared to improve their optical properties for potential optical fiber and glass laser application. The borate glasses with composition (59.5–x) B2O3–20Na2O–20CaO–xV2O5–Er2O3–0.5AgCl (x = 0–2.5 mol%) were successfully prepared by conventional melt-quenching method. The structural properties of glass samples were investigated by XRD, TEM and by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy while optical properties were carried out by UV–Vis spectroscopy by measuring optical absorption and the emission properties were investigated by photoluminescence spectroscopy. The XRD patterns confirmed the amorphous nature of the prepared glass samples whilst the FTIR confirmed the presence of VO4, VO5, BO3 and BO4 vibrations. UV–Vis–NIR absorption spectra reveal eight bands which were located at 450, 490, 519, 540, 660, 780, 980, and 1550 nm corresponding to transition of 4F5/2, 4F7/2, 2H11/2, 4S3/2, 4F9/2, 4I9/2, 4I11/2, and 4I13/2, respectively. The optical band gap (Eopt), Urbach energy and refractive index were observed to decrease, increase and increase, respectively, to the addition of vanadium. Under 800 nm excitation, three emission bands were observed at 516, 580 and 673 nm, which are represented by 2H11/2–4I15/2, 4S3/2–4I15/2 and 4F15/2–4I15/2, respectively. The excellent features of achieved results suggest that our findings may provide useful information toward the development of functional glasses.
Experimental and Numerical Study on Interface Bond Strength and Anchorage Performance of Steel Bars within Prefabricated Concrete
Authors: Hu Zhijian , Shah Yasir Ibrahim , Yao Pengfei
Published: July 2021

This study investigates the interface bond strength and anchorage performance of steel bars within prefabricated concrete. Twenty-two specimens were designed and manufactured to study the interface bond behavior of deformed and plain steel bars under a larger cover thickness. Diameter of steel bars, strength grade of concrete, and anchorage length were considered influential factors. The finite element method (ABAQUS) was used for the validation of experimental results. The interface bond’s failure mechanism and the anchorage length in the prefabricated concrete under different concrete strength levels were explored and compared to national and international codes. A suitable value of the basic anchoring length for the prefabricated structure was recommended. The results show that the interface bond strength of prefabricated bridge members is directly proportional to the strength grade of the concrete, inversely proportional to the reinforcement diameter, and less related to anchorage length. The effect of the cover thickness of the surrounding concrete is negligible. Conversely, the bearing capacity of prefabricated bridge members depends on the strength of the concrete, the diameter of the steel bar, and the anchorage length. Furthermore, it is concluded that the mechanical bond strength accounts for 88% of the bond strength within prefabricated concrete.
In Situ Investigation of Strain Localization in Sintered, Porous Segmented Alumina
Authors: Kibitkin Vladimir , Grigoriev Mikhail , Burlachenko Alexander , Solodushkin Andrey , Savchenko Nickolai , Rubtsov Valery , Tarasov Sergei
Published: July 2021

Evaporation of paraffin and ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene admixed with alumina powder for the slip casting and sintering process allowed the obtainment of segmented porous alumina ceramics with 50% total porosity, whose deformation behavior we studied. Structurally, these ceramic materials were composed of large and small pores, and a system of discontinuities subdividing the samples into segments. Using digital image correlation (DIC), strain distribution maps were obtained that allowed the observation of strain localization zones, where primary cracks propagated along the interblock discontinuities. Two stages were revealed to be responsible for different mechanisms that provided the sample with damage tolerance under compression loading: the first stage was crack propagation along the block boundaries, which was followed by the second stage of microcracking and fragmentation, consisting of filling of the free spaces with fragments, compaction band generation, and stabilization of the crack. Both stages comprise a cycle that is repeated again and again until the full volume of the sample is occupied by the compaction bands.
Effect of Lubricant Type on the Friction Behaviours and Surface Topography in Metal Forming of Ti-6Al-4V Titanium Alloy Sheets
Authors: Szpunar Marcin , Trzepieciński Tomasz , Żaba Krzysztof , Ostrowski Robert , Zwolak Marek
Published: July 2021

The aim of the research described in this paper is to analyse the synergistic effect of types of synthetic oil and their density on the value of the coefficient of friction (COF) of Ti-6Al-4V titanium alloy sheets. Lubrication performance of commercial synthetic oils (machine, gear, engine and hydraulic) was tested in a strip draw friction test. The friction tests consisted of pulling a strip specimen between two cylindrical fixed countersamples. The countersamples were placed in the simulator base mounted on a uniaxial tensile test machine. Due to the complex synergistic effect of different strip drawing test parameters on the COF, artificial neural networks were used to find this relationship. In the case of both dry and lubricated conditions, a clear trend was found of a reduction of the coefficient of friction with nominal pressure. Engine oil 10W-40 was found to be the least favourable lubricant in reducing the coefficient of friction of Grade 5 titanium sheets. The two main tribological mechanisms, i.e., galling and ploughing, played the most important role in the friction process on the test sheets. In the range of nominal pressures considered, and with the synthetic oils tested, the most favourable lubrication conditions can be obtained by using a type of oil with a low viscosity index and a high kinematic viscosity.
Thermally-Induced Deformations and Warpages of Flip-Chip and 2.5D IC Packages Measured by Strain Gauges
Authors: Tsai Ming-Yi , Wang Yu-Wen , Liu Chia-Ming
Published: July 2021

The thermal warpage problems in integrated circuit (IC) packaging exist in both flip-chip and two-and-a-half dimensional integrated circuits (2.5D IC) packages during manufacturing processes and thermal cycling service. This study proposes a simple and easy-to-use strain gauge measurement associated with a beam model theory to determine the thermally induced deformations and warpages of both packages. First, validation and limitations of the beam model theory are presented. Then, the thermally induced out-of-plane deformations for both packages are well described by the finite element method (FEM) simulation with a good consistency to full-field shadow moiré experimental results. The strain gauge measurements were implemented experimentally, and the thermal strain results were found to be well consistent with validated FEM ones. As a result, out-of-plane thermal deformations and warpages of the packages, calculated from the beam model theory with extracted curvature data from the strain gauge, were in reasonably good agreement with those from FEM analysis and shadow moiré measurements. Therefore, the strain gauge method of featuring point strain measurement combined with the beam model theory proved feasible in determining the thermal deformations and warpages of both IC packages.
Post-Diverticulitis Colonoscopy Was Not Associated with Higher Colonic Adenoma and Carcinoma: A Multicenter Case–Control Study
Authors: Mari Amir , Khoury Tawfik , Sbeit Wisam
Published: July 2021

Background and Objectives: Colonoscopy following an episode of acute diverticulitis is currently recommended to rule out underlying colon cancer. However, a number of studies have debated this recommendation. We aimed to explore whether patients with colonic diverticulosis who experienced an episode of acute diverticulitis had higher prevalence colonic pathologies, essentially colonic adenomas and colorectal carcinoma (CRC) on a follow-up colonoscopy. Materials and Methods: We performed a multicenter retrospective study that included patients with a diagnosis diverticulosis as the control group and allocated patients after diverticulitis according to computed tomography (CT) scan and clinical presentation that had performed colonoscopy within 6 months from the acute diverticulitis episode. We compared the detection rate of colonic pathologic findings in both groups. Results: Overall, 367 patients were included. Of them, 134 patients experienced an episode of diverticulitis vs. 233 patients who did not have diverticulitis. On univariate analysis, there was no difference between all pathological findings (CRC, colonic adenomas; OR (odds ratio) 1.51, p = 0.085), and even for each pathological findings alone, there was no difference (for colonic adenomas, p = 0.07; for CRC, p = 0.87). Further sub-analysis revealed that only male gender (OR 4.03, p = 0.004) and smoking (OR 8.67, p < 0.0001) correlated with colonic adenomas and CRC, while moderate to severe disease was not correlated with colonic pathological findings (OR 0.86, 95% CI (confidence interval) 0.4–1.82, p = 0.68). Conclusions: Post-diverticulitis screening colonoscopy has not found a higher rate of colonic pathological findings, especially colonic neoplasia. Decision to perform colonoscopy after acute diverticulitis should be individualized based on risk stratification of colonic neoplasia.
Investigation of Hybrid Methods for Elimination of Brilliant Blue Dye from Water Phase Using Various Nanomaterials Combined with Activated Sludge and Duckweed
Authors: Zarzycki Paweł K. , Lewandowska Lucyna , Fenert Bożena , Piaskowski Krzysztof , Kobaka Janusz
Published: July 2021

The main goal of this experimental work is screening of different natural and synthetic nanomaterials and biopolymers that may improve elimination of stable micropollutants from water phase. In this work, as a target chemical acting as the micropollutant molecule, the Brilliant Blue (BB) dye was selected. We tested different active matrices dispersed in water phase including activated carbon (AC), lyophilized graphene oxide (GO), β-cyclodextrin (CD), raw dandelion pappus (DP), microcrystalline cellulose(MC), and raw pine pollen (PP), as well as two types of Egyptian Blue mineral pigments (EB1 and EB2). Graphene oxide and Egyptian Blue nanomaterials were synthesized in our laboratory. We investigated potential application of such nanoparticles and biopolymer conglomerates as additives that may tune the activated sludge (AS) microorganisms or duckweed water plant (DW) and increase efficiency of micropollutants removal from wastewater. Studied nanomaterials/biopolymers were used in two different experimental modes involving real activated sludge microorganisms (24 h experiment) as well as duckweed plant (16 day experiment). Quantitative data of BB were obtained using microfluidic type device based on micro-TLC plate. This approach enabled direct determination of target component without sample pre-treatment like pre-concentration or pre-purification. Within single analytical run calibration line, retention standard spots (methyl red) and multiple samples were analyzed simultaneously. Due to the multivariate nature of these experiments, quantitative data were explored with chemometric tools including AHC (agglomerative hierarchical clustering), PCA (principal component analysis), and FA (factor analysis). Experimental data and multivariate calculations revealed that BB is strongly resistant on biodegradation, however, inclusion complexes formation with β-cyclodextrinmay induce degradation of this dye in the presence of duckweed. It is hoped that results of our experimental work can be used for designing of future experiments for fast screening of different additives and improvement of technological processes, focusing on purification of sewage and water from micropollutants.
Therapeutic Promises of Medicinal Plants in Bangladesh and Their Bioactive Compounds against Ulcers and Inflammatory Diseases
Authors: Ahmed Sheikh Rashel , Rabbee Muhammad Fazle , Roy Anindita , Chowdhury Rocky , Banik Anik , Kubra Khadizatul , Hassan Chowdhury Mohammed Mehadi , Baek Kwang-Hyun
Published: July 2021

When functioning properly, the stomach is the center of both physical and mental satisfaction. Gastrointestinal disorders, or malfunctioning of the stomach, due to infections caused by various biological entities and physiochemical abnormalities, are now widespread, with most of the diseases being inflammatory, which, depending on the position and degree of inflammation, have different names such as peptic or gastric ulcers, irritable bowel diseases, ulcerative colitis, and so on. While many synthetic drugs, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, are now extensively used to treat these diseases, their harmful and long-term side effects cannot be ignored. To treat these diseases safely and successfully, different potent medicinal plants and their active components are considered game-changers. In consideration of this, the present review aimed to reveal a general and comprehensive updated overview of the anti-ulcer and anti-inflammatory activities of medicinal plants. To emphasize the efficacy of the medicinal plants, various bioactive compounds from the plant extract, their experimental animal models, and clinical trials are depicted.