bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Bacterial or Fungal Phytase Supplementation on the Performance, Egg Quality, Plasma Biochemical Parameters, and Reproductive Morphology of Laying Hens
Authors: Saleh Ahmed A. , Elsawee Mohammed , Soliman Mohamed M. , Elkon Reyad Y. N. , Alzawqari Mohammed H. , Shukry Mustafa , Abdel-Moneim Abdel-Moneim Eid , Eltahan Hatem
Published: February 2021

Catalytic and physicochemical properties of microbial phytase sources may differ, affecting phosphorus (P) release and subsequently the productive and reproductive performance of layers. The current study aimed to evaluate the impact of bacterial and fungal phytase sources on layer productivity, egg production, biochemical blood indices, and reproductive morphology. For this purpose, 360 Bovans brown hens at 42 weeks of age were randomly allocated into 4 experimental groups, each with 15 replicates of 6 hens. The first group (control) was fed a basal diet with 4.6 g/kg available P. In contrast, the second, third, and fourth groups were fed diets treated with 3.2 g/kg available P, supplemented with either 5000 FTU/kg of bacterial E. coli (QuantumTM Blue 5G), fungal Aspergillus niger (VemoZyme® F 5000 Naturally Thermostable Phytase (NTP)), or fungal Trichodermareesei (Yemzim® FZ100). Dietary supplementation of bacterial and fungal phytases did not affect the productive performance or egg quality criteria, except for increased shell weight and thickness (p < 0.05). Serum hepatic function biomarkers and lipid profiles were not altered in treated hens, while calcium and P levels were increased (p < 0.05) related to the controls. Ovary index and length, and relative weight of oviduct and its segments were not influenced. The contents of cholesterol and malondialdehyde in the yolks from treated birds were lower compared to control hens, while calcium and P content increased (p < 0.05). Conclusively, bacterial and fungal phytase sources can compensate for the reduction of available P in layers’ diets and enhance shell and yolk quality without affecting productive performance, and no differences among them were noticed.
Dogs in the Wroclaw Stronghold, 2nd Half of the 10th–1st Half of the 13th Century (Lower Silesia, Poland)—An Zooarchaeological Overview
Authors: Pankiewicz Aleksandra , Jaworski Krzysztof , Chrószcz Aleksander , Poradowski Dominik
Published: February 2021

This article pertains to the issue of early medieval dogs (10th–mid-13th century) from the territory of Poland and Central Europe. The study is based on dog remains from the Wroclaw Cathedral Island (Ostrów Tumski), one of the most important administrative centres of early medieval Poland, the capital of a secular principality and the seat of diocese authorities. The main morphological and functional types of dogs living in Wroclaw and other parts of Poland were characterized on that basis. It has been concluded that the roles and perceptions of dogs were very ambiguous. On the one hand, they were hunting companionship for the elite and were considered a symbol of devotion and loyalty. On the other hand, dogs symbolised disgrace. In everyday life, these animals were sometimes abused, their skin was sometimes tanned and their bones modified into tools, and in exceptional cases, dogs were even eaten.
A Stepwise Male Introduction Procedure to Prevent Inbreeding in Naturalistic Macaque Breeding Groups
Authors: Rox Astrid , van Vliet André H. , Langermans Jan A. M. , Sterck Elisabeth H. M. , Louwerse Annet L.
Published: February 2021

Male introductions into captive primate breeding groups can be risky and unsuccessful. However, they are necessary to prevent inbreeding in naturalistic breeding groups. The procedure used to introduce new individuals may affect the success and influence the risks associated with group introductions. At the Biomedical Primate Research Centre (BPRC) in Rijswijk, the Netherlands, male rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta) introductions into naturalistic social groups with a matrilineal structure and without a breeding male achieve relatively high success rates. This paper describes the male introduction procedure used at the BPRC. Males are stepwise familiarized with and introduced to their new group, while all interactions between the new male and the resident females are closely monitored. Monitoring the behaviour of the resident females and their new male during all stages of the introduction provides crucial information as to whether or not it is safe to proceed. The BPRC introduction procedure is widely applicable and may improve the management of captive primate groups in any housing facility worldwide. Thus, the careful introduction management can minimize the risk associated with male introductions and enhance the welfare of captive primates.
Immunopathological Response, Histological Changes, Parasitic Burden, and Egg Output in Sheep Naturally Infected by Dicrocoelium dendriticum
Authors: Piegari Giuseppe , Pepe Paola , De Biase Davide , d’Aquino Ilaria , Bosco Antonio , Cringoli Giuseppe , Papparella Serenella , Rinaldi Laura , Paciello Orlando
Published: February 2021

The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation between infection by Dicrocoelium dendriticum (class Trematoda) and the animal host response in terms of macroscopic lesions, the immunopathological response, and histological changes in the livers of naturally infected sheep. Twenty-four sheep were selected on the basis of positive D. dendriticum fecal egg counts (FECs). Gross and histological injuries were scored. A positive significant association was observed between the number of adult worms recovered from the liver, FEC, macroscopic lesions, fibrosis, and bile duct hyperplasia. A significant negative association was observed among these variables and the degree of leukocyte infiltration. In addition, immunophenotyping of the inflammatory cells was carried out using primary antibodies against T cell epitopes (CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+), B cell epitopes (CD79α), and the ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1 (IBA-1) antigen. Independently of the severity of the D. dendriticum infection, the predominant cell population was CD3-positive and associated with lesser numbers of CD79α- and Iba-I-positive cells. An increase in Iba-1-positive cells was observed in the livers of animals with a high worm burden. Our results provide a reference basis to better understand the local immune response in sheep naturally infected by D. dendriticum in relation to the FEC and parasitic burden.
Chronic Wasting Due to Liver and Rumen Flukes in Sheep
Authors: Kahl Alexandra , von Samson-Himmelstjerna Georg , Krücken Jürgen , Ganter Martin
Published: February 2021

Grazing sheep and goats are constantly exposed to helminth infections in many parts of the world, including several trematode species that causes a range of clinical diseases. The clinical picture of flukes is dependent upon the organs in which they develop and the tissues they damage within the respective organs. Accordingly, infections with the common liver fluke Fasciola hepatica, which, as juvenile worm migrates through the liver parenchyma for several weeks, may be associated with hepatic disorders such as impairment of carbohydrate, protein and fat metabolism, followed by chronic wasting. In contrast, the lancet fluke Dicrocoelium dendriticum, which does not exhibit tissue migration and thus does not lead to major tissue damage and bleeding, also does not lead to significant clinical symptoms. Rumen flukes such as Cotylophoron daubneyi cause catarrhal inflammation during their migration through the intestinal and abomasal epithelium during its juvenile stages. Depending on the infection intensity this may result in a range of clinical symptoms including diarrhoea, inappetence or emaciation. In this review, we aim to provide an update on the current knowledge on flukes particularly concerning the clinical relevance of the most important fluke species in sheep.
An Outbreak of Subclinical Mastitis in a Dairy Herd Caused by a Novel Streptococcus canis Sequence Type (ST55)
Authors: Eibl Cassandra , Baumgartner Martina , Urbantke Verena , Sigmund Michael , Lichtmannsperger Katharina , Wittek Thomas , Spergser Joachim
Published: February 2021

The present case report provides data on the phenotypic and genotypic properties of S. canis isolated from nine dairy cows with subclinical mastitis (SCC greater than 200,000 cells/mL in the quarter milk sample, no clinical signs) and from a cat living in the barn and reports the eradication of the pathogen from the herd with an automatic milking system. The isolates were identified using conventional bacteriology, matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry (MS) and genetic relationships were investigated by multilocus sequence typing (MLST). Udder health management and hygiene instructions comprised the removal of the carnivores from the barn, strict monitoring of milking hygiene and techniques to avoid new infections via the milking robot, with simultaneous therapy for all infected cows. Phenotypic and genotypic properties of all isolates were identical. MLST revealed a unique sequence type (ST55) and a farmyard cat was identified as the most likely source of the S. canis infection in cows. The simultaneous treatment of all infected cows and management and hygiene improvements lead to a decreased SCC within four weeks.
Trusted Academic Transcripts on the Blockchain: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Caldarelli Giulio , Ellul Joshua
Published: February 2021

Much of the excitement around blockchain is mainly due to promising applications in the financial sector. However, many also believe in the technology’s potential to disrupt non-financial sectors and applications, including supply chains, energy, e-voting, healthcare, and education. The application of blockchain within the education sector is expected to make improvements to academic transcripts, credentials, digital libraries, and student records. Research in this domain is rapidly increasing, and current reviews summarize the proposed improvements. On the other hand, the analysis undertaken has remained at a general level that lacks the depth required to cover diverging proposals that have emerged. This review focuses on the application of blockchain for academic transcripts. The aim is to find, among the proposed models, converging aspects that resolve common challenges and may lead to a universally accepted de-facto standard. Furthermore, since academic institutions will serve as oracles to the particular blockchain applications, a discussion on their trustworthiness will be outlined to explore if the proposed applications efficiently address the oracle problem. The outcome of this review highlights the need for a standardized approach built on a public blockchain to promote faster adoption and acceptance. Furthermore, oracles should be incentivized in order for the system to be sustainable, while their identities and activities should be known and identifiable.
Recent Advances in the Heterologous Biosynthesis of Natural Products from Streptomyces
Authors: Pham Van Thuy Thi , Nguyen Chung Thanh , Dhakal Dipesh , Nguyen Hue Thi , Kim Tae-Su , Sohng Jae Kyung
Published: February 2021

Streptomyces is a significant source of natural products that are used as therapeutic antibiotics, anticancer and antitumor agents, pesticides, and dyes. Recently, with the advances in metabolite analysis, many new secondary metabolites have been characterized. Moreover, genome mining approaches demonstrate that many silent and cryptic biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) and many secondary metabolites are produced in very low amounts under laboratory conditions. One strain many compounds (OSMAC), overexpression/deletion of regulatory genes, ribosome engineering, and promoter replacement have been utilized to activate or enhance the production titer of target compounds. Hence, the heterologous expression of BGCs by transferring to a suitable production platform has been successfully employed for the detection, characterization, and yield quantity production of many secondary metabolites. In this review, we introduce the systematic approach for the heterologous production of secondary metabolites from Streptomyces in Streptomyces and other hosts, the genome analysis tools, the host selection, and the development of genetic control elements for heterologous expression and the production of secondary metabolites.
Measurement of Amount for Steel Abrasive Material Transported by Special Scraper Conveyor
Authors: Fedorko Gabriel , Nečas Jan , Zegzulka Jiří , Gelnar Daniel , Molnár Vieroslav , Tomašková Marianna
Published: February 2021

Results obtained from measuring the required amount of steel abrasive material with various fragmentations, which is transported by a special kind of scraper conveyor, offers information that is useful for operators of the abrasive blast cabinets. The presented article describes an innovative methodology developed for determination of the most relevant operational parameters relating to the above-mentioned situation. The most important parameters in this case are: the optimal amount of the abrasive material, the conveying speed of the scraper conveyor and the feeding of the conveyor with regard to partial or full elimination of instable operational area. Elimination of the instable operational area is possible by means of a simple constructional modification of the given conveying system according to the results obtained from experimental investigation, which was performed using special, originally developed laboratory testing equipment.
Contamination of Heavy Metals, Polychlorinated Dibenzo-p-Dioxins/Furans and Dioxin-Like Polychlorinated Biphenyls in Wharf Roach Ligia spp. In Japanese Intertidal and Supratidal Zones
Authors: Honda Masato , Qiu Xuchun , Lydia Undap Suzanne , Kimura Takeshi , Hori Tsuguhide , Shimasaki Yohei , Oshima Yuji
Published: February 2021

We investigated the pollution levels of 6 heavy metals and 29 dioxins (polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs), polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs), and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (DL-PCBs)) in intertidal and supratidal zones by using wharf roaches (Ligia spp.) collected from 12 sampling sites on the coast of Northeast Japan from November 2011 to June 2012. The total concentrations of heavy metals ranged from 177 to 377 µg/g-dry weight (dw), and the predominant metals were copper, zinc, and aluminum. The order of the detected level of heavy metals was zinc > aluminum > copper > cadmium > lead > chromium, and this trend was similar to a previous report. The total toxic equivalent (TEQ) value of the PCDD/Fs ranged from less than the limit of detection (<LOD) to 2.33 pg-TEQ/g-dw, and the predominant congener was octachlorodibenzodioxin (<LOD to 110 pg/g-dw). Compared with PCDD/Fs, DL-PCBs were detected at a predominantly higher level (total TEQ value: 0.64–27.79 pg-TEQ/g-dw). Detected levels of dioxins, especially DL-PCBs in the wharf roach, were like those in the bivalves. These results indicate that the wharf roach could reflect heavy metals and dioxin pollution in the supratidal zones and is a suitable environmental indicator for these environmental pollutants. This is the first study to investigate heavy metals, PCDD/Fs, and DL-PCBs pollution in coastal isopods in Japan.
Design for Maintainability of Basements and Wet Areas
Authors: Chew Michael Yit Lin
Published: February 2021

With the motto of “doing it right the first time”, this study focuses on spearheading the integration of designers, constructors, and facility mangers, at the outset of the planning/design stage, by providing easy-to-read tables summarising (1) knowledge learnt from past mistakes and (2) maintainability benchmarks, to ensure high maintainability for Basements and Wet Areas. The commonly occurring problems in Basements and Wet Areas of a total of 110 buildings comprising of commercial, hotels, industrial, institutions, healthcare facilities, and residential facilities were evaluated using case and field studies. Face-to-face interviews and workshops with the respective professionals involved in the design, construction, operation and maintenance (O&M) of the buildings were conducted for detailed investigation on each problem for their (a) problem types, (b) extent of problem, (c) failure mechanism, (d) good practices in design/construction/O&M/facilities management (FM), and (e) environmental issues. Easy-to-read tables of checklists based on a preventive/predictive performance-based approach, which defines acceptable standards in design, construction and O&M/FM practices, were derived. The checklists help enhance the integration of designers, constructors, and facilities managers (FM), ensuring high maintainability and productivity right at the outset of the planning/design stage. They also help professionals derive, customise, and validate their own Maintainable Design Appraisal System (MDAS) according to their own needs.
Lysophosphatidic Acid-Activated Calcium Signaling Is Elevated in Red Cells from Sickle Cell Disease Patients
Authors: Wang Jue , Hertz Laura , Ruppenthal Sandra , El Nemer Wassim , Connes Philippe , Goede Jeroen S. , Bogdanova Anna , Birnbaumer Lutz , Kaestner Lars
Published: February 2021

(1) Background: It is known that sickle cells contain a higher amount of Ca2+ compared to healthy red blood cells (RBCs). The increased Ca2+ is associated with the most severe symptom of sickle cell disease (SCD), the vaso-occlusive crisis (VOC). The Ca2+ entry pathway received the name of Psickle but its molecular identity remains only partly resolved. We aimed to map the involved Ca2+ signaling to provide putative pharmacological targets for treatment. (2) Methods: The main technique applied was Ca2+ imaging of RBCs from healthy donors, SCD patients and a number of transgenic mouse models in comparison to wild-type mice. Life-cell Ca2+ imaging was applied to monitor responses to pharmacological targeting of the elements of signaling cascades. Infection as a trigger of VOC was imitated by stimulation of RBCs with lysophosphatidic acid (LPA). These measurements were complemented with biochemical assays. (3) Results: Ca2+ entry into SCD RBCs in response to LPA stimulation exceeded that of healthy donors. LPA receptor 4 levels were increased in SCD RBCs. Their activation was followed by the activation of Gi protein, which in turn triggered opening of TRPC6 and CaV2.1 channels via a protein kinase Cα and a MAP kinase pathway, respectively. (4) Conclusions: We found a new Ca2+ signaling cascade that is increased in SCD patients and identified new pharmacological targets that might be promising in addressing the most severe symptom of SCD, the VOC.
Adhesion of Electrospun Poly(acrylonitrile) Nanofibers on Conductive and Isolating Foil Substrates
Authors: Hellert Christian , Wortmann Martin , Frese Natalie , Grötsch Georg , Cornelißen Carsten , Ehrmann Andrea
Published: February 2021

Electrospinning can be used to prepare nanofibers from various polymers and polymer blends. The adhesion of nanofibers to the substrates on which they are electrospun varies greatly with the substrate material and structure. In some cases, good adhesion is desired to produce sandwich structures by electrospinning one material directly onto another. This is the case, e.g., with dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). While both pure foil DSSCs and pure electrospun DSSCs have been examined, a combination of both technologies can be used to combine their advantages, e.g., the lateral strength of foils with the large surface-to-volume ratio of electrospun nanofibers. Here, we investigate the morphology and adhesion of electrospun nanofibers on different foil substrates containing materials commonly used in DSSCs, such as graphite, poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) or TiO2. The results show that the foil material strongly influences the adhesion, while a plasma pretreatment of the foils showed no significant effect. Moreover, it is well known that conductive substrates can alter the morphology of nanofiber mats, both at microscopic and macroscopic levels. However, these effects could not be observed in the current study.
Ultrahigh Ballistic Resistance of Twisted Bilayer Graphene
Authors: Peng Qing , Peng Sheng , Cao Qiang
Published: February 2021

Graphene is a good candidate for protective material owing to its extremely high stiffness and high strength-to-weight ratio. However, the impact performance of twisted bilayer graphene is still obscure. Herein we have investigated the ballistic resistance capacity of twisted bilayer graphene compared to that of AA-stacked bilayer graphene using molecular dynamic simulations. The energy propagation processes are identical, while the ballistic resistance capacity of the twisted bilayer graphene is almost two times larger than the AA-bilayer graphene. The enhanced capacity of the twisted bilayer graphene is assumed to be caused by the mismatch between the two sheets of graphene, which results in earlier fracture of the first graphene layer and reduces the possibility of penetration.
An Open GMNS Dataset of a Dynamic Multi-Modal Transportation Network Model of Melbourne, Australia
Authors: Nourmohammadi Fatemeh , Mansourianfar Mohammadhadi , Shafiei Sajjad , Gu Ziyuan , Saberi Meead
Published: February 2021

Simulation-based dynamic traffic assignment models are increasingly used in urban transportation systems analysis and planning. They replicate traffic dynamics across transportation networks by capturing the complex interactions between travel demand and supply. However, their applications particularly for large-scale networks have been hindered by the challenges associated with the collection, parsing, development, and sharing of data-intensive inputs. In this paper, we develop and share an open dataset for reproduction of a dynamic multi-modal transportation network model of Melbourne, Australia. The dataset is developed consistently with the General Modeling Network Specification (GMNS), enabling software-agnostic human and machine readability. GMNS is a standard readable format for sharing routable transportation network data that is designed to be used in multimodal static and dynamic transportation operations and planning models.
Analysis of the Influence That Parameters Crookedness and Taper Have on Stack Volume by Using a 3D-Simulation Model of Wood Stacks
Authors: de Miguel-Díez Felipe , Tolosana-Esteban Eduardo , Purfürst Thomas , Cremer Tobias
Published: February 2021

The influence that parameters crookedness and taper have on the stack volume was analyzed by using a 3D-simulation model in this study. To do so, log length, diameters at the midpoint and both ends, crookedness, bark thickness, taper and ovality were measured in 1000 logs of Scots pine. From this database, several data sets with different proportions of crooked and tapered logs in stack as well as with different degrees of taper and crookedness were created and taken as basis to simulate the stacks and carry out the analysis. The results show how the variation of these parameters influences the stack volume and provide their volume variation grades. These rates of variation were compared with measurement guidelines of some countries and previous research works. In conclusion, the parameters crookedness and taper influence the stack volume to a considerable extent. Specifically, the stack volume is increased as the crookedness degree or the proportion of crooked logs increases. In contrast, the stack volume is reduced as the taper degree or the proportion of tapered logs increases. Furthermore, the results demonstrate the capability of this simulation model to provide accurate results which can serve as a basis for future studies.
A Computational Model for Tail Undulation and Fluid Transport in the Giant Larvacean
Authors: Hoover Alexander P. , Daniels Joost , Nawroth Janna C. , Katija Kakani
Published: February 2021

Flexible propulsors are ubiquitous in aquatic and flying organisms and are of great interest for bioinspired engineering. However, many animal models, especially those found in the deep sea, remain inaccessible to direct observation in the laboratory. We address this challenge by conducting an integrative study of the giant larvacean, an invertebrate swimmer and “fluid pump” of the mesopelagic zone. We demonstrate a workflow involving deep sea robots, advanced imaging tools, and numerical modeling to assess the kinematics and resulting fluid transport of the larvacean’s beating tail. A computational model of the tail was developed to simulate the local fluid environment and the tail kinematics using embedded passive (elastic) and active (muscular) material properties. The model examines how varying the extent of muscular activation affects the resulting kinematics and fluid transport rates. We find that muscle activation in two-thirds of the tail’s length, which corresponds to the observed kinematics in giant larvaceans, generates a greater average downstream flow speed than other designs with the same power input. Our results suggest that the active and passive material properties of the larvacean tail are tuned to produce efficient fluid transport for swimming and feeding, as well as provide new insight into the role of flexibility in biological propulsors.
Polymer Networks Synthesized from Poly(Sorbitol Adipate) and Functionalized Poly(Ethylene Glycol)
Authors: Rashid Haroon , Golitsyn Yury , Bilal Muhammad Humayun , Mäder Karsten , Reichert Detlef , Kressler Jörg
Published: February 2021

Polymer networks were prepared by Steglich esterification using poly(sorbitol adipate) (PSA) and poly(sorbitol adipate)-graft-poly(ethylene glycol) mono methyl ether (PSA-g-mPEG12) copolymer. Utilizing multi-hydroxyl functionalities of PSA, poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) was first grafted onto a PSA backbone. Then the cross-linking of PSA or PSA-g-mPEG12 was carried out with disuccinyl PEG of different molar masses (Suc-PEGn-Suc). Polymers were characterized through nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, gel permeation chromatography (GPC), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The degree of swelling of networks was investigated through water (D2O) uptake studies, while for detailed examination of their structural dynamics, networks were studied using 13C magic angle spinning NMR (13C MAS NMR) spectroscopy, 1H double quantum NMR (1H DQ NMR) spectroscopy, and 1H pulsed field gradient NMR (1H PFG NMR) spectroscopy. These solid state NMR results revealed that the networks were composed of a two component structure, having different dipolar coupling constants. The diffusion of solvent molecules depended on the degree of swelling that was imparted to the network by the varying chain length of the PEG based cross-linking agent.
Comparative Mitogenomics in Hyalella (Amphipoda: Crustacea)
Authors: Zapelloni Francesco , Jurado-Rivera José A. , Jaume Damià , Juan Carlos , Pons Joan
Published: February 2021

We present the sequencing and comparative analysis of 17 mitochondrial genomes of Nearctic and Neotropical amphipods of the genus Hyalella, most from the Andean Altiplano. The mitogenomes obtained comprised the usual 37 gene-set of the metazoan mitochondrial genome showing a gene rearrangement (a reverse transposition and a reversal) between the North and South American Hyalella mitogenomes. Hyalella mitochondrial genomes show the typical AT-richness and strong nucleotide bias among codon sites and strands of pancrustaceans. Protein-coding sequences are biased towards AT-rich codons, with a preference for leucine and serine amino acids. Numerous base changes (539) were found in tRNA stems, with 103 classified as fully compensatory, 253 hemi-compensatory and the remaining base mismatches and indels. Most compensatory Watson–Crick switches were AU -> GC linked in the same haplotype, whereas most hemi-compensatory changes resulted in wobble GU and a few AC pairs. These results suggest a pairing fitness increase in tRNAs after crossing low fitness valleys. Branch-site level models detected positive selection for several amino acid positions in up to eight mitochondrial genes, with atp6 and nad5 as the genes displaying more sites under selection.
Digital Graphic Documentation and Architectural Heritage: Deformations in a 16th-Century Ceiling of the Pinelo Palace in Seville (Spain)
Authors: Reinoso-Gordo Juan , Gámiz-Gordo Antonio , Barrero-Ortega Pedro
Published: February 2021

Suitable graphic documentation is essential to ascertain and conserve architectural heritage. For the first time, accurate digital images are provided of a 16th-century wooden ceiling, composed of geometric interlacing patterns, in the Pinelo Palace in Seville. Today, this ceiling suffers from significant deformation. Although there are many publications on the digital documentation of architectural heritage, no graphic studies on this type of deformed ceilings have been presented. This study starts by providing data on the palace history concerning the design of geometric interlacing patterns in carpentry according to the 1633 book by López de Arenas, and on the ceiling consolidation in the 20th century. Images were then obtained using two complementary procedures: from a 3D laser scanner, which offers metric data on deformations; and from photogrammetry, which facilitates the visualisation of details. In this way, this type of heritage is documented in an innovative graphic approach, which is essential for its conservation and/or restoration with scientific foundations and also to disseminate a reliable digital image of the most beautiful ceiling of this Renaissance palace in southern Europe.
A Data Cube Metamodel for Geographic Analysis Involving Heterogeneous Dimensions
Authors: Kasprzyk Jean-Paul , Devillet Guénaël
Published: February 2021

Due to their multiple sources and structures, big spatial data require adapted tools to be efficiently collected, summarized and analyzed. For this purpose, data are archived in data warehouses and explored by spatial online analytical processing (SOLAP) through dynamic maps, charts and tables. Data are thus converted in data cubes characterized by a multidimensional structure on which exploration is based. However, multiple sources often lead to several data cubes defined by heterogeneous dimensions. In particular, dimensions definition can change depending on analyzed scale, territory and time. In order to consider these three issues specific to geographic analysis, this research proposes an original data cube metamodel defined in unified modeling language (UML). Based on concepts like common dimension levels and metadimensions, the metamodel can instantiate constellations of heterogeneous data cubes allowing SOLAP to perform multiscale, multi-territory and time analysis. Afterwards, the metamodel is implemented in a relational data warehouse and validated by an operational tool designed for a social economy case study. This tool, called “Racines”, gathers and compares multidimensional data about social economy business in Belgium and France through interactive cross-border maps, charts and reports. Thanks to the metamodel, users remain independent from IT specialists regarding data exploration and integration.
Optimizing Precursors and Reagents for the Development of Alkali-Activated Binders in Ambient Curing Conditions
Authors: Sood Dhruv , Hossain Khandaker M. Anwar
Published: February 2021

Alkali-activated binders (AABs) are developed through the activation of aluminosilicate-rich materials using alkaline reagents. The characteristics of AABs developed using a novel dry-mixing technique incorporating powder-based reagents/activators are extensively explored. A total of forty-four binder mixes are assessed in terms of their fresh and hardened state properties. The influence of mono/binary/ternary combinations of supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs)/precursors and different types/combinations/dosages of powder-based reagents on the strength and workability properties of different binder mixes are assessed to determine the optimum composition of precursors and the reagents. The binary (55% fly ash class C and 45% ground granulated blast furnace slag) and ternary (25% fly ash class C, 35% fly ash class F and 40% ground granulated blast furnace slag) binders with reagent-2 (calcium hydroxide and sodium sulfate = 2.5:1) exhibited desired workability and 28-day compressive strengths of 56 and 52 MPa, respectively. Microstructural analyses (in terms of SEM/EDS and XRD) revealed the formation of additional calcium aluminosilicate hydrate with sodium or mixed Ca/Na compounds in binary and ternary binders incorporating reagent-2, resulting in higher compressive strength. This research confirms the potential of producing powder-based cement-free green AABs incorporating binary/ternary combinations of SCMs having the desired fresh and hardened state properties under ambient curing conditions.
Effect of 7-Methylsulfinylheptyl Isothiocyanate on the Inhibition of Melanogenesis in B16-F1 Cells
Authors: Kim A-Ju , Park Jung Eun , Cho Yeong Hee , Lim Do Sung , Lee Jung Sup
Published: February 2021

Skin aging, characterized by hyperpigmentation, inflammation, wrinkles, and skin cancer, is influenced by intrinsic and extrinsic factors with synergistic effects. Autophagy maintains the homeostatic balance between the degradation, synthesis, and recycling of cellular proteins and organelles, and plays important roles in several cellular and biological processes, including aging. The compound 7-methylsulfinylheptyl isothiocyanate (7-MSI) is a sulfur-containing phytochemical produced by various plants, particularly cruciferous vegetables, with reported anti-inflammatory properties and a role in pathogen defense; however, its effects on skin whitening have not been studied in detail. The purpose of this study was to observe the effects of 7-MSI on skin whitening and autophagy in cultured murine melanoma (B16-F1) cells. Western blotting was used to evaluate the impact of 7-MSI on melanogenesis-, tyrosinase-, and autophagy-associated proteins. The levels of the melanogenesis-associated protein’s microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) and tyrosinase and tyrosinase-related protein-1 were decreased by treatment with 7-MSI under melanogenesis induction. Melanin synthesis also decreased by approximately 63% after treatment with 7-MSI for 73 h, compared with that non-treated controls. In addition, autophagosome formation and the expression levels of the autophagy-related proteins mTOR, p-mTOR, Beclin-1, Atg12, and LC3 were higher in 7-MSI-treated B16-F1 cells than in non-treated cells. These results indicate that 7-MSI can inhibit melanin synthesis in B16-F1 cells by suppressing melanogenesis and autophagy activation and thus can potentially be used as a novel multifunctional cosmetic agent.
Inhibition Effect of Fluoride Ion on Corrosion of 304 Stainless Steel in Occluded Cell Corrosion Stage in the Presence of Chloride Ion
Authors: Luo Zhengwei , Zuo Jie , Jiang Hui , Geng Wenhua , Zhou Yongzhang , Lian Zhouyang , Wei Wuji
Published: February 2021

The role of F− in the corrosion of stainless steel at the stage of occluded cell corrosion in a mixture of chloride, fluoride, and sulfate ions was investigated. A simulated occluded corrosion cell was designed using an elaborate simulated rust layer. Composite electrodes were used to monitor the variation of the concentration of ions, pH, and dissolved oxygen of the occluded solution. The results show that the influence of F− on the corrosion of 304 stainless steel, in the occluded cell corrosion stage, is concentration dependent. When the F−/Cl− ratio is higher than 2, the corrosion can be significantly suppressed. Analyses showed that the corrosion inhibition effect could be attributed to the migration of F− to the occluded cell, which can reduce the migration of Cl−, dampen the decrease in pH, and react with metal ions to form semi-soluble products. Meanwhile, the influence of F− on the corrosion process was also verified using drilled stainless steel specimens, demonstrating the practicality and validity of the simulated occluded cell corrosion model.
The Weld Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of the Alloy 52 and Its Variants with Applied Electromagnetic Stirring during Welding
Authors: Wu Tai-Jung , Jeng Sheng-Long , Huang Junn-Yuan
Published: February 2021

This study investigated the impact of electromagnetic stirring (EMS) on nickel-base alloy welds prepared with the gas tungsten arc welding process. Alloy 52 and its variants, Alloy 52M and Alloy 52MSS, were carefully evaluated with their weld microstructure and mechanical properties. The results showed that the welds exhibited a typical microstructure of dendrites, and that the dendrites could be refined by electromagnetic stirring. Meanwhile, with an application of EMS, the precipitates became smaller and more evenly distributed in the inter-dendritic areas. Ti(N,C)s, Nb/(Nb,Si)Cs, and large-scale Laves phase with (Nb,Mo,Ti)Cs were the precipitates present in the Alloy 52, Alloy 52M, and Alloy 52MSS welds, respectively. With the refined microstructure, both Alloy 52 and Alloy 52M welds were observed to have an increase in their tensile strength, with a decrease in their elongations. Comparatively, for the Alloy 52MSS weld, the tensile strength was enhanced along with a slight increase in elongation. Deep and dense dimples were a dominant feature of low-Nb-additions welds, and dendrite-like features were found prevalent among the Alloy 52MSS welds. With EMS, the dimples of Alloy 52 welds and the dendrite-like features of Alloy 52MSS welds became finer, while the dimples of Alloy 52M welds grew coarser.
Preventing Evaporation Products for High-Quality Metal Film in Directed Energy Deposition: A Review
Authors: Kim Kang-Hyung , Jung Chan-Hyun , Jeong Dae-Yong , Hyun Soong-Keun
Published: February 2021

Directed energy deposition (DED), a type of additive manufacturing (AM) is a process that enables high-speed deposition using laser technology. The application of DED extends not only to 3D printing, but also to the 2D surface modification by direct laser-deposition dissimilar materials with a sub-millimeter thickness. One of the reasons why DED has not been widely applied in the industry is the low velocity with a few m/min, but thin-DED has been developed to the extent that it can be over 100 m/min in roller deposition. The remaining task is to improve quality by reducing defects. Thus far, defect studies on AM, including DED, have focused mostly on preventing pores and crack defects that reduce fatigue strength. However, evaporation products, fumes, and spatters, were often neglected despite being one of the main causes of porosity and defects. In high-quality metal deposition, the problems caused by evaporation products are difficult to solve, but they have not yet caught the attention of metallurgists and physicists. This review examines the effect of the laser, material, and process parameters on the evaporation products to help obtain a high-quality metal film layer in thin-DED.
Tribological Performance of CoCrMo Alloys with Boron Additions in As-Cast and Heat-Treated Conditions
Authors: Hernandez-Rodriguez Marco A. L. , Lozano Diego E. , Martinez-Cazares Gabriela M. , Bedolla-Gil Yaneth
Published: February 2021

The present study evaluates the effect of boron additions on the tribological performance of CoCrMo alloys. The alloys were prepared with boron ranging from 0.06 to 1 wt%. The materials were characterized using metallographic techniques, scanning electronic microscopy, and roughness and hardness tests. Tribological evaluation was made by means of ball-on-disc tests for sliding distances of 4, 8 and 12 km. The samples were in the as-cast condition and after a heat treatment at 1200 °C for 1 h, finished by water quenching. The results showed that wear resistance was influenced by the microstructure and the number of secondary phases. The volume loss decreased as the boron content increased. Due to hard phases, abrasion wear was observed. Delamination fatigue was also detected after long sliding distances. Both wear mechanisms diminished in higher boron content alloys.
REEs in the North Africa P-Bearing Deposits, Paleoenvironments, and Economic Perspectives: A Review
Authors: Buccione Roberto , Kechiched Rabah , Mongelli Giovanni , Sinisi Rosa
Published: February 2021

A review of the compositional features of Tunisia, Algeria, and Morocco phosphorites is proposed in order to assess and compare the paleoenvironmental conditions that promoted the deposit formation as well as provide information about their economic perspective in light of growing worldwide demand. Since these deposits share a very similar chemical and mineralogical composition, the attention was focused on the geochemistry of rare earth elements (REEs) and mostly on ΣREEs, Ce and Eu anomalies, and (La/Yb) and (La/Gd) normalized ratios. The REEs distributions reveal several differences between deposits from different locations, suggesting mostly that the Tunisian and Algerian phosphorites probably were part of the same depositional system. There, sub-reducing to sub-oxic conditions and a major REEs adsorption by early diagenesis were recorded. Conversely, in the Moroccan basins, sub-oxic to oxic environments and a minor diagenetic alteration occurred, which was likely due to a different seawater supply. Moreover, the drastic environmental changes associated to the Paleocene–Eocene Thermal Maximum event probably influenced the composition of Northern African phosphorites that accumulated the highest REEs amounts during that span of time. Based on the REEs concentrations, and considering the outlook coefficient of REE composition (Koutl) and the percentage of critical elements in ΣREEs (REEdef), the studied deposits can be considered as promising to highly promising REE ores and could represent a profitable alternative source for critical REEs.
Reversible Humidity-Driven Transformation of a Bimetallic {EuCo} Molecular Material: Structural, Sorption, and Photoluminescence Studies
Authors: Zakrzewski Jakub J. , Heczko Michal , Jankowski Robert , Chorazy Szymon
Published: February 2021

Functional molecule-based solids built of metal complexes can reveal a great impact of external stimuli upon their optical, magnetic, electric, and mechanical properties. We report a novel molecular material, {[EuIII(H2O)3(pyrone)4][CoIII(CN)6]}·nH2O (1, n = 2; 2, n = 1), which was obtained by the self-assembly of Eu3+ and [Co(CN)6]3− ions in the presence of a small 2-pyrrolidinone (pyrone) ligand in an aqueous medium. The as-synthesized material, 1, consists of dinuclear cyanido-bridged {EuCo} molecules accompanied by two H-bonded water molecules. By lowering the relative humidity (RH) below 30% at room temperature, 1 undergoes a single-crystal-to-single-crystal transformation related to the partial removal of crystallization water molecules which results in the new crystalline phase, 2. Both 1 and 2 solvates exhibit pronounced EuIII-centered visible photoluminescence. However, they differ in the energy splitting of the main emission band of a 5D0 → 7F2 origin, and the emission lifetime, which is longer in the partially dehydrated 2. As the 1 ↔ 2 structural transformation can be repeatedly reversed by changing the RH value, the reported material shows a room-temperature switching of detailed luminescent features including the ratio between emission components and the emission lifetime values.
Spectroscopic and Theoretical Study of the Intramolecular π-Type Hydrogen Bonding and Conformations of 2-Cyclopenten-1-ol
Authors: Ocola Esther J. , Laane Jaan
Published: February 2021

The conformations of 2-cyclopenten-1-ol (2CPOL) have been investigated by high-level theoretical computations and infrared spectroscopy. The six conformational minima correspond to specific values of the ring-puckering and OH internal rotation coordinates. The conformation with the lowest energy possesses intramolecular π-type hydrogen bonding. A second conformer with weaker hydrogen bonding has somewhat higher energy. Ab initio coupled-cluster theory with single and double excitations (CCSD) was used with the cc-pVTZ (triple-ζ) basis set to calculate the two-dimensional potential energy surface (PES) governing the conformational dynamics along the ring-puckering and internal rotation coordinates. The two conformers with the hydrogen bonding lie about 300 cm−1 (0.8 kcal/mole) lower in energy than the other four conformers. The lowest energy conformation has a calculated distance of 2.68 Å from the hydrogen atom on the OH group to the middle of the C=C double bond. For the other conformers, this distance is at least 0.3 Å longer. The infrared spectrum in the O-H stretching region agrees well with the predicted frequency differences between the conformers and shows the conformers with the hydrogen bonding to have the lowest values. The infrared spectra in other regions arise mostly from the two hydrogen-bonded species.
Chemical Composition and Cytotoxic Activity of the Fractionated Trunk Bark Essential Oil from Tetraclinis articulata (Vahl) Mast. Growing in Tunisia
Authors: Jlizi Salma , Lahmar Aida , Zardi-Bergaoui Afifa , Ascrizzi Roberta , Flamini Guido , Harrath Abdel Halim , Chekir-Ghedira Leila , Ben Jannet Hichem
Published: February 2021

The aim of the present research was to determine the chemical composition and the cytotoxic effects of Tetraclinis articulata trunk bark essential oil (HEE) obtained by steam distillation and five fractions obtained by normal phase silica chromatographic separation. Chemical analysis allowed the identification of 54 known compounds. Relatively high amounts of oxygenated sesquiterpenes (44.4–70.2%) were detected, mainly consisting of caryophyllene oxide (13.1–26.6%), carotol (9.2–21.2%),14-hydroxy-9-epi-(E)-caryophyllene (3.2–15.5%) and humulene epoxide II (2.6–7.2%). The cytotoxic activity against human mammary carcinoma cell lines (MDA-MB-231) and colorectal carcinoma cell lines (SW620) of the essential oil and its fractions were assessed. All the samples displayed moderate to weak activity compared to 5-fluorouracil. The colorectal carcinoma cell line was relatively more sensitive to the essential oil and its fractions compared to the breast cancer cell line, showing IC50 values from 25.7 to 96.5 μg/mL. In addition, the essential oil and its fraction E.2 revealed a cytotoxic activity against colorectal carcinoma cell line, with IC50 values lower than 30 μg/mL. This is the first report on the chemical composition and cytotoxic activity of the trunk bark essential oil of T. articulata.
From Combinations to Single-Molecule Polypharmacology—Cromolyn-Ibuprofen Conjugates for Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Albertini Claudia , Naldi Marina , Petralla Sabrina , Strocchi Silvia , Grifoni Daniela , Monti Barbara , Bartolini Manuela , Bolognesi Maria Laura
Published: February 2021

Despite Alzheimer’s disease (AD) incidence being projected to increase worldwide, the drugs currently on the market can only mitigate symptoms. Considering the failures of the classical paradigm “one target-one drug-one disease” in delivering effective medications for AD, polypharmacology appears to be a most viable therapeutic strategy. Polypharmacology can involve combinations of multiple drugs and/or single chemical entities modulating multiple targets. Taking inspiration from an ongoing clinical trial, this work aims to convert a promising cromolyn–ibuprofen drug combination into single-molecule “codrugs.” Such codrugs should be able to similarly modulate neuroinflammatory and amyloid pathways, while showing peculiar pros and cons. By exploiting a linking strategy, we designed and synthesized a small set of cromolyn–ibuprofen conjugates (4–6). Preliminary plasma stability and neurotoxicity assays allowed us to select diamide 5 and ethanolamide 6 as promising compounds for further studies. We investigated their immunomodulatory profile in immortalized microglia cells, in vitro anti-aggregating activity towards Aβ42-amyloid self-aggregation, and their cellular neuroprotective effect against Aβ42-induced neurotoxicity. The fact that 6 effectively reduced Aβ-induced neuronal death, prompted its investigation into an in vivo model. Notably, 6 was demonstrated to significantly increase the longevity of Aβ42-expressing Drosophila and to improve fly locomotor performance.