bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
First Characterization and Description of Aspergillus Series Versicolores in French Bioaerosols
Authors: Géry Antoine , Rioult Jean-Philippe , Heutte Natacha , Séguin Virginie , Bonhomme Julie , Garon David
Published: August 2021

Air quality can be altered by fungal contaminants suspended in the air, forming bioaerosols. Aspergilli section Nidulantes series Versicolores are recurrent in bioaerosols and are mainly responsible for allergies and asthma aggravation. Phylogenetic studies recently identified 12 new species within this series. This study is the first to identify species of Aspergillus series Versicolores in French bioaerosols and to characterize them macroscopically, microscopically and molecularly. Bioaerosols were collected in a cancer treatment center, in contaminated homes and in agricultural environments. A total of 93 isolates were cultured on selective media, observed by optical microscopy and identified by benA amplification before sequencing. The field data (temperature and relative humidity) were statistically tested to explore the ecology of these species. Eight species were identified from bioaerosols: Aspergillus creber and A. jensenii, which represent more than 80% of the isolates, and A. protuberus, A. puulaauensis, A. sydowii, A. tabacinus, A. amoenus and A. fructus. Aspergilli series Versicolores are distributed differently depending on the sampling site and climatic determinants. Aspergillus protuberus was found in bioaerosols collected under significantly lower relative humidity (p = 3.899 × 10−4). Characterization and repartition of these isolates belonging to the Versicolores series constitute an important step to better assess exposure to fungal bioaerosols.
Let-7a-5p, miR-100-5p, miR-101-3p, and miR-199a-3p Hyperexpression as Potential Predictive Biomarkers in Early Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Fuso Paola , Di Salvatore Mariantonietta , Santonocito Concetta , Guarino Donatella , Autilio Chiara , Mulè Antonino , Arciuolo Damiano , Rinninella Antonina , Mignone Flavio , Ramundo Matteo , Di Stefano Brunella , Orlandi Armando , Capoluongo Ettore , Nicolotti Nicola , Franceschini Gianluca , Sanchez Alejandro Martin , Tortora Giampaolo , Scambia Giovanni , Barone Carlo , Cassano Alessandra
Published: August 2021

Background: The aim of this study is to identify miRNAs able to predict the outcomes in breast cancer patients after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC). Patients and methods: We retrospectively analyzed 24 patients receiving NAC and not reaching pathologic complete response (pCR). miRNAs were analyzed using an Illumina Next-Generation-Sequencing (NGS) system. Results: Event-free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS) were significantly higher in patients with up-regulation of let-7a-5p (EFS p = 0.006; OS p = 0.0001), mirR-100-5p (EFS s p = 0.01; OS p = 0.03), miR-101-3p (EFS p = 0.05; OS p = 0.01), and miR-199a-3p (EFS p = 0.02; OS p = 0.01) in post-NAC samples, independently from breast cancer subtypes. At multivariate analysis, only let-7a-5p was significantly associated with EFS (p = 0.009) and OS (p = 0.0008). Conclusion: Up-regulation of the above miRNAs could represent biomarkers in breast cancer.
The Impact of the Synergistic Effect of Temperature and Air Pollutants on Chronic Lung Diseases in Subtropical Taiwan
Authors: Wu Da-Wei , Chen Szu-Chia , Tu Hung-Pin , Wang Chih-Wen , Hung Chih-Hsing , Chen Huang-Chi , Kuo Tzu-Yu , Wang Chen-Feng , Lai Bo-Cheng , Chen Pei-Shih , Kuo Chao-Hung
Published: August 2021

Previous studies have suggested an association between air pollution and lung disease. However, few studies have explored the relationship between chronic lung diseases classified by lung function and environmental parameters. This study aimed to comprehensively investigate the relationship between chronic lung diseases, air pollution, meteorological factors, and anthropometric indices. We conducted a cross-sectional study using the Taiwan Biobank and the Taiwan Air Quality Monitoring Database. A total of 2889 participants were included. We found a V/U-shaped relationship between temperature and air pollutants, with significant effects at both high and low temperatures. In addition, at lower temperatures (<24.6 °C), air pollutants including carbon monoxide (CO) (adjusted OR (aOR):1.78/Log 1 ppb, 95% CI 0.98–3.25; aOR:5.35/Log 1 ppb, 95% CI 2.88–9.94), nitrogen monoxide (NO) (aOR:1.05/ppm, 95% CI 1.01–1.09; aOR:1.11/ppm, 95% CI 1.07–1.15), nitrogen oxides (NOx) (aOR:1.02/ppm, 95% CI 1.00–1.05; aOR:1.06/ppm, 95% CI 1.04–1.08), and sulfur dioxide (SO2) (aOR:1.29/ppm, 95% CI 1.01–1.65; aOR:1.77/ppm, 95% CI 1.36–2.30) were associated with restrictive and mixed lung diseases, respectively. Exposure to CO, NO, NO2, NOx and SO2 significantly affected obstructive and mixed lung disease in southern Taiwan. In conclusion, temperature and air pollution should be considered together when evaluating the impact on chronic lung diseases.
Does External Shock Influence Farmer’s Adoption of Modern Irrigation Technology?—A Case of Gansu Province, China
Authors: Tan Yongfeng , Sarkar Apurbo , Rahman Airin , Qian Lu , Hussain Memon Waqar , Magzhan Zharkyn
Published: August 2021

Due to the severe irrigational water scarcity and ever-growing contamination of existing water resources, the potential of improved and innovative irrigation technology has emerged. The risk-taking network may play an essential role in the adoption of modern irrigation technology (MIT). The main goals of the current study were to find the impacts of external shocks on MIT adoption by farmers. For doing so, the study analyzed the mediating effect of economic vulnerability (EV) and the moderating effect of the risk-taking network on farmer’s adaptation of MIT. Economic vulnerability of farmers refers to risks caused by external shocks to the farming system which may affect the farmer’s adoption of MIT. The empirical set-up of the study consists of micro survey data of 509 farmers from the Gansu Province of China. The results show that the external shock has a significant negative impact on adapting MIT by rural farmers. At the same time, EV plays an intermediary effect in increasing the impact of external irrigation on the adaptation of MIT. The intermediary to total effect is 36.57%. The risk-taking network has a moderate effect on the relationship between external shocks, affecting farmers to adopt MIT, while external shocks also increase EV which affects farmers’ adopting MIT. Thus, it can be said that the risk-taking network regulates the direct path of external shocks affecting farmers’ choice to adapt to MIT, and external shocks also affect farmer’s MIT adaptation. The public and private partnerships should be strengthened to facilitate risk minimization. Government should provide subsidies, and financial organizations should also formulate more accessible loans and risk-sharing facilities. The government should expand the support for formal and informal risk-taking network. They should also extend their support for formal and informal risk-taking networks to improve the risk response-ability of vulnerable farmers. The concerned authorities should attach smallholder farmers’ socio-economic structure and reform the existing policies according to their demands. The governmental authorities should also endorse the risk-sharing function of informal institutions.
Gomisin L1, a Lignan Isolated from Schisandra Berries, Induces Apoptosis by Regulating NADPH Oxidase in Human Ovarian Cancer Cells
Authors: Ko Young Hyun , Jeong Miran , Jang Dae Sik , Choi Jung-Hye
Published: August 2021

The fruits of Schisandra chinensis (Schisandra berries) are used as health food supplements and popular food ingredients in East Asia. Lignans, major and characteristic polyphenol compounds of Schisandra berries, possess various biological activities, including hepatoprotective and anticancer effects. However, the biological activities of gomisin L1, a lignan isolated from Schisandra berries, are less to be investigated. In this study, the antitumor activity of gomisin L1 and its underlying molecular mechanism in human ovarian cancer cells were investigated. Gomisin L1 exhibited potent cytotoxic activity against A2780 and SKOV3 ovarian cancer cells. Flow cytometry analysis revealed that the growth inhibitory effects of gomisin L1 were mediated by the induction of apoptosis. Furthermore, gomisin L1 induced an increase in intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, and the antioxidant N-acetyl cysteine significantly negated gomisin L1-induced cell death. Moreover, inhibition of NADPH oxidase (NOX) using an inhibitor and siRNA attenuated gomisin L1-induced death of, and ROS production in, human ovarian cancer cells. Taken together, these data indicate that the lignan gomisin L1 from Schisandra berries induces apoptotic cell death by regulating intracellular ROS production via NOX.
Enhanced Expression of Thaumatin-like Protein Gene (LeTLP1) Endows Resistance to Trichoderma atroviride in Lentinula edodes
Authors: Ma Xiaolong , Fan Xiaolin , Wang Gangzheng , Xu Ruiping , Yan Lianlian , Zhou Yan , Gong Yuhua , Xiao Yang , Bian Yinbing
Published: August 2021

Lentinula edodes (shiitake mushrooms) is heavily affected by the infection of Trichoderma atroviride, causing yield loss and decreases quality in shiitake mushrooms. The selection and breeding of fungal-resistant L. edodes species are an important approach to protecting L. edodes from T. atroviride infection. Herein, a highly resistant L. edodes strain (Y3334) and a susceptible strain (Y55) were obtained by using a resistance evaluation test. Transcriptome analyses and qRT-PCR detection showed that the expression level of LeTLP1 (LE01Gene05009) was strongly induced in response to T. atroviride infection in the resistant Y3334. Then, LeTLP1-silenced and LeTLP1-overexpression transformants were obtained. Overexpression of LeTLP1 resulted in resistance to T. atroviride. Compared with the parent strain Y3334, LeTLP1-silenced transformants had reduced resistance relative to T. atroviride. Additionally, the LeTLP1 protein (Y3334) exhibited significant antifungal activity against T. atroviride. These findings suggest that overexpression of LeTLP1 is a major mechanism for the resistance of L. edodes to T. atroviride. The molecular basis provides a theoretical basis for the breeding of resistant L. edodes strains and can eventually contribute to the mushroom cultivation industry and human health.
Identification of Compound CB-2 as a Novel Late-Stage Autophagy Inhibitor Exhibits Inhibitory Potency against A549 Cells
Authors: Liu Zhihui , Zhang Lu , Liu Yachao , Zhang Hanxiao , Chen Jingxuan , Feng Gaoqing , Yang Peichang , Sha Fangfang , Cui Liuqing , Sun Gangchun
Published: August 2021

Autophagy has been recognized as a stress tolerance mechanism that maintains cell viability, which contributes to tumor progression, dormancy, and treatment resistance. The inhibition of autophagy in cancer has the potential to improve the therapeutic efficacy. It is therefore of great significance to search for new autophagy inhibitors. In the present study, after screening a series of curcumin derivatives synthesized in our laboratory, (E)-3-((E)-4-chlorobenzylidene)-5-((5-methoxy-1H-indol-3-yl)methylene)-1-methylpiperidin-4-one (CB-2) was selected as a candidate for further study. We found that CB-2 increased the LC3B-II and SQSTM1 levels associated with the accumulation of autophagosomes in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) A549 cells. The increased level of LC3B-II induced by CB-2 was neither eliminated when autophagy initiation was suppressed by wortmannin nor further increased when autophagosome degradation was inhibited by chloroquine (CQ). CB-2 enhanced the accumulation of LC3B-II under starvation conditions. Further studies revealed that CB-2 did not affect the levels of the key proteins involved in autophagy induction but significantly blocked the fusion of autophagosomes with lysosomes. High-dose CB-2 induced the apoptosis and necrosis of A549 cells, while a lower dose of CB-2 mainly impaired the migrative capacity of A549 cells, which only slightly induced cell apoptosis. CB-2 increased the levels of mitochondrial-derived reactive oxygen species (ROS) while decreasing the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). Scavenging ROS via N-acetylcysteine (NAC) reversed CB-2-induced autophagy inhibition and its inhibitory effect against A549 cells. In conclusion, CB-2 serves as a new late-stage autophagy inhibitor, which has a strong inhibitory potency against A549 cells.
Identification of Targeted Proteins by Jamu Formulas for Different Efficacies Using Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Wijaya Sony Hartono , Afendi Farit Mochamad , Batubara Irmanida , Huang Ming , Ono Naoaki , Kanaya Shigehiko , Altaf-Ul-Amin Md.
Published: August 2021

Background: We performed in silico prediction of the interactions between compounds of Jamu herbs and human proteins by utilizing data-intensive science and machine learning methods. Verifying the proteins that are targeted by compounds of natural herbs will be helpful to select natural herb-based drug candidates. Methods: Initially, data related to compounds, target proteins, and interactions between them were collected from open access databases. Compounds are represented by molecular fingerprints, whereas amino acid sequences are represented by numerical protein descriptors. Then, prediction models that predict the interactions between compounds and target proteins were constructed using support vector machine and random forest. Results: A random forest model constructed based on MACCS fingerprint and amino acid composition obtained the highest accuracy. We used the best model to predict target proteins for 94 important Jamu compounds and assessed the results by supporting evidence from published literature and other sources. There are 27 compounds that can be validated by professional doctors, and those compounds belong to seven efficacy groups. Conclusion: By comparing the efficacy of predicted compounds and the relations of the targeted proteins with diseases, we found that some compounds might be considered as drug candidates.
Arf GTPases Are Required for the Establishment of the Pre-Assembly Compartment in the Early Phase of Cytomegalovirus Infection
Authors: Pavišić Valentino , Mahmutefendić Lučin Hana , Blagojević Zagorac Gordana , Lučin Pero
Published: August 2021

Shortly after entering the cells, cytomegaloviruses (CMVs) initiate massive reorganization of cellular endocytic and secretory pathways, which results in the forming of the cytoplasmic virion assembly compartment (AC). We have previously shown that the formation of AC in murine CMV- (MCMV) infected cells begins in the early phase of infection (at 4–6 hpi) with the pre-AC establishment. Pre-AC comprises membranes derived from the endosomal recycling compartment, early endosomes, and the trans-Golgi network, which is surrounded by fragmented Golgi cisterns. To explore the importance of Arf GTPases in the biogenesis of the pre-AC, we infected Balb 3T3 cells with MCMV and analyzed the expression and intracellular localization of Arf proteins in the early phases (up to 16 hpi) of infection and the development of pre-AC in cells with a knockdown of Arf protein expression by small interfering RNAs (siRNAs). Herein, we show that even in the early phase, MCMVs cause massive reorganization of the Arf system of the host cells and induce the over-recruitment of Arf proteins onto the membranes of pre-AC. Knockdown of Arf1, Arf3, Arf4, or Arf6 impaired the establishment of pre-AC. However, the knockdown of Arf1 and Arf6 also abolished the establishment of infection. Our study demonstrates that Arf GTPases are required for different steps of early cytomegalovirus infection, including the establishment of the pre-AC.
Optimal Design of Steel–Concrete Composite Beams Strengthened under Load
Authors: Szewczyk Piotr , Szumigała Maciej
Published: August 2021

This paper presents results of numerical analysis and experimental research on strengthening of steel–concrete composite beams. Studied members consisted of IPE200 I-beam and 90 × 700 mm reinforced concrete slab. The steel part of the section was strengthened by welding additional steel plates at the bottom. The study was performed for plate thickness ranging between 6 to 22 mm. Spatial FEM models were developed to account for material and geometric nonlinearities and for stress and post-welding strain. Proposed numerical models were experimentally validated. One aim was to find an optimum solution which would minimize cost and maximize bending capacity. To achieve this, energy parameters available in numerical simulations were reviewed and analyzed. Recoverable strain energy value determined in Abaqus was used to find the optimum solution.
Medical Plant Extract Purification from Cadmium(II) Using Modified Thermoplastic Starch and Ion Exchangers
Authors: Chen Yi-Gong , Wang Qian , Wołowicz Anna , Gładysz-Płaska Agnieszka , Wawrzkiewicz Monika , Sofińska-Chmiel Weronika , Lv Gui-Yuan , Kołodyńska Dorota , Chen Su-Hong
Published: August 2021

Pure compounds extracted and purified from medical plants are crucial for preparation of the herbal products applied in many countries as drugs for the treatment of diseases all over the world. Such products should be free from toxic heavy metals; therefore, their elimination or removal in all steps of production is very important. Hence, the purpose of this paper was purification of an extract obtained from Dendrobium officinale Kimura et Migo and cadmium removal using thermoplastic starch (S1), modified TPS with poly (butylene succinate); 25% of TPS + 75% PBS (S2); 50% of TPS + 50% PLA (S3); and 50% of TPS + 50% PLA with 5% of hemp fibers (S4), as well as ion exchangers of different types, e.g., Lewatit SP112, Purolite S940, Amberlite IRC747, Amberlite IRC748, Amberlite IRC718, Lewatit TP207, Lewatit TP208, and Purolite S930. This extract is used in cancer treatment in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis with differential scanning calorimetry, X-ray powder diffraction, gel permeation chromatography, surface analysis, scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and point of zero charge analysis were used for sorbent and adsorption process characterization, as well as for explanation of the Cd(II) sorption mechanism.
Electrochemically Inert Li2MnO3: The Key to Improving the Cycling Stability of Li-Rich Manganese Oxide Used in Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Lian-Bang , Hu He-Shan , Lin Wei , Xu Qing-Hong , Gong Jia-Dong , Chai Wen-Kui , Shen Chao-Qi
Published: August 2021

Lithium-rich manganese oxide is a promising candidate for the next-generation cathode material of lithium-ion batteries because of its low cost and high specific capacity. Herein, a series of xLi2MnO3·(1 − x)LiMnO2 nanocomposites were designed via an ingenious one-step dynamic hydrothermal route. A high concentration of alkaline solution, intense hydrothermal conditions, and stirring were used to obtain nanoparticles with a large surface area and uniform dispersity. The experimental results demonstrate that 0.072Li2MnO3·0.928LiMnO2 nanoparticles exhibit a desirable electrochemical performance and deliver a high capacity of 196.4 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C. This capacity was maintained at 190.5 mAh g−1 with a retention rate of 97.0% by the 50th cycle, which demonstrates the excellent cycling stability. Furthermore, XRD characterization of the cycled electrode indicates that the Li2MnO3 phase of the composite is inert, even under a high potential (4.8 V), which is in contrast with most previous reports of lithium-rich materials. The inertness of Li2MnO3 is attributed to its high crystallinity and few structural defects, which make it difficult to activate. Hence, the final products demonstrate a favorable electrochemical performance with appropriate proportions of two phases in the composite, as high contents of inert Li2MnO3 lower the capacity, while a sufficient structural stability cannot be achieved with low contents. The findings indicate that controlling the composition through a dynamic hydrothermal route is an effective strategy for developing a Mn-based cathode material for lithium-ion batteries.
Effects of Sc and Zr Addition on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of AA5182
Authors: Li Jingxiao , Yang Xiaofang , Xiang Shihua , Zhang Yongfa , Shi Jie , Qiu Youcai , Sanders Robert Edward
Published: August 2021

The effects of 0.1 wt.% Sc and 0.1 wt.% Zr addition in AA5182 on microstructure and mechanical properties were investigated. Results show that Al3(ScxZr1−x) dispersoids formed in AA5182. Observation of ingots microstructures showed that the grain size of 5182-Sc-Zr alloy was 56% lower than that of based AA5182. Isothermal annealing between 230 °C and 500 °C for 2 h was performed to study the recrystallization, tensile properties and dispersoid coarsening. The recrystallization was inhibited by the dispersoids, and the alloy microstructure remained deformed after annealing. Al3(ScxZr1−x) in AA5182 was stable when annealing below 400 °C, while parts of dispersoids coarsened significantly when heating at 500 °C. The addition of Sc and Zr allowed YS of 5182 alloy to achieve 247.8 MPa, which is 100 MPa higher than the corresponding AA5182. The contributions of Orowan strengthening and grain boundary strengthening were obtained by calculation.
Screening for Health-Promoting Fatty Acids in Ascidians and Seaweeds Grown under the Influence of Fish Farming Activities
Authors: Marques Luísa , Domingues Maria Rosário , da Costa Elisabete , Abreu Maria Helena , Lillebø Ana Isabel , Calado Ricardo
Published: August 2021

The present study aimed to contrast the fatty acid (FA) profile of ascidians (Ascidiacea) and seaweeds (sea lettuce, Ulva spp. and bladderwrack, Fucus sp.) occurring in a coastal lagoon with versus without the influence of organic-rich effluents from fish farming activities. Our results revealed that ascidians and seaweeds from these contrasting environments displayed significant differences in their FA profiles. The n-3/n-6 ratio of Ascidiacea was lower under the influence of fish farming conditions, likely a consequence of the growing level of terrestrial-based ingredients rich on n-6 FA used in the formulation of aquafeeds. Unsurprisingly, these specimens also displayed significantly higher levels of 18:1(n-7+n-9) and 18:2n-6, as these combined accounted for more than 50% of the total pool of FAs present in formulated aquafeeds. The dissimilarities recorded in the FAs of seaweeds from these different environments were less marked (≈5%), with these being more pronounced in the FA classes of the brown seaweed Fucus sp. (namely PUFA). Overall, even under the influence of organic-rich effluents from fish farming activities, ascidians and seaweeds are a valuable source of health-promoting FAs, which confirms their potential for sustainable farming practices, such as integrated multi-trophic aquaculture.
Chemical Characterization of Atlantic Cod (Gadus morhua) Collagen Hydrolyzed Using Enzyme Preparation Derived from Red King Crab (Paralithodes camtschaticus) and Its Potential as a Core Component of Bacterial Culture Medium
Authors: Novikov Vitaliy Yu. , Shumskaya Nadezhda V. , Mukhin Vyacheslav A. , Zolotarev Konstantin V. , Mikhailov Anton N. , Nakhod Valeriya I. , Mikhailova Marina V.
Published: August 2021

The Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) and red king crab (Paralithodes camtschaticus) processing wastes are massive and unutilized in the Murmansk region of Russia. The samples of skin-containing waste of Atlantic cod fillets production were hydrolyzed using enzyme preparations derived from red king crab hepatopancreases, porcine pancreases, and Bacillus subtilis bacteria. The activity of enzymes from crab hepatopancreases was significantly higher than the activity of enzymes derived from other sources. The optimal conditions of the hydrolysis process have been figured out. The samples of cod processing waste hydrolysate were analyzed for amino acid composition and molecular weight distribution. The samples of hydrolysate were used as core components for bacterial culture medium samples. The efficiency of the medium samples was tested for Escherichia coli growth rate; the most efficient sample had an efficiency of 95.3% of that of a commercially available medium based on fish meal. Substitution of medium components with those derived from industrial by-products is one of the ways to decrease a cost of a culture medium in biopharmaceutical drug production.
Numerical Analysis of the Partial Penetration High Power Laser Beam Welding of Thick Sheets at High Process Speeds
Authors: Artinov Antoni , Meng Xiangmeng , Bachmann Marcel , Rethmeier Michael
Published: August 2021

The present work is devoted to the numerical analysis of the high-power laser beam welding of thick sheets at different welding speeds. A three-dimensional transient multi-physics numerical model is developed, allowing for the prediction of the keyhole geometry and the final penetration depth. Two ray tracing algorithms are implemented and compared, namely a standard ray tracing approach and an approach using a virtual mesh refinement for a more accurate calculation of the reflection point. Both algorithms are found to provide sufficient accuracy for the prediction of the keyhole depth during laser beam welding with process speeds of up to 1.5mmin−1. However, with the standard algorithm, the penetration depth is underestimated by the model for a process speed of 2.5mmin−1 due to a trapping effect of the laser energy in the top region. In contrast, the virtually refined ray tracing approach results in high accuracy results for process speeds of both 1.5mmin−1 and 2.5mmin−1. A detailed study on the trapping effect is provided, accompanied by a benchmark including a predefined keyhole geometry with typical characteristics for the high-power laser beam welding of thick plates at high process speed, such as deep keyhole, inclined front keyhole wall, and a hump.
Research on the Dynamic Compressive Deformation Behavior of 3D-Printed Ti6Al4V
Authors: Pu Bo , Li Wenbin , Zhang Qing , Zheng Yu , Wang Xiaoming
Published: August 2021

In this paper, the plastic flow and fracture behavior of 3D-printed Ti6Al4V (TC-4) alloy under different temperatures (289–1073 K) and strain rates (0.1–4100 s−1) were studied by using the MTS comprehensive experimental machine (MTS) and split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) equipment. The patterns of the influence of temperature and strain rate on the plastic flow behavior of 3D-printed materials in different printing directions were analyzed and compared with those of the traditional TC-4. Based on the experimental data, the modified Johnson–Cook (J-C) constitutive model of 3D-printed TC-4 alloy was established, and the plastic deformation behavior of the material driven by detonation was studied by X-ray photography. The research results showed that under static loading conditions, the strength of the material (AM-P-TC-4) along the printing direction was much higher than the strength of the material perpendicular to the printing direction (AM-T-TC-4). However, there was no difference in material strength for different directions under dynamic loading. Second, under the same deformation conditions, the strength of the 3D-printed TC-4 alloy was considerably higher than that of the traditional TC-4 alloy, but adiabatic shear fracture could be more easily induced under dynamic compressive deformation conditions for the 3D-printed TC-4 alloy, and its fracture strain was substantially less than that of TC-4 alloys. The modified J-C constitutive model established in this paper could better describe the plastic flow behavior of the AM-P-TC-4 alloy under high temperature and high-strain rate deformation conditions.
Reductions of Intergranular Corrosion Resistance and Wear Resistance in a Ni-Cr-Mo-Based Superalloy by Aging-Treatment-Induced Precipitation
Authors: Zhang Pengyan , Zhang Chi , Zhou Xiaoguang , Huang Zhenyi
Published: August 2021

Ni-Cr-Mo-based superalloy is widely used as a key component in many critical environments. To ensure that the manufacturing process does not impact the long-term service performance of these components, the aging precipitation behavior at different temperatures and its effect on intergranular corrosion (IGC) resistance and wear resistance of a Ni-Cr-Mo-based C276 superalloy were investigated. The equilibrium phase diagram was calculated first using thermodynamic software to confirm the potential phases. Carbides of M6C were found to be formed at grain boundaries after aging at 800–850 °C for short-term treatment. The other two phases (μ phase and P phase) indicated in the phase diagram were not observed for the samples after aging treatment up to 15 h. Furthermore, double loop electrochemical potentiokinetic reactivation (DL-EPR) tests were conducted to examine the IGC resistance. The degree of sensitization increased with the aging time and severe corrosion was found to occur at grain boundaries. For the first time, the influence of aging treatment on the wear behavior of this superalloy has been specifically studied. Concerning the hot processing of Ni-Cr-Mo-based C276 superalloy, these results indicate the importance of avoiding high-temperature heat treatment for long periods.
Lead Electrodeposition from Triethylenetetramine Solution Containing Inhibitors
Authors: Ciszewski Mateusz , Orda Szymon , Drzazga Michał , Kowalik Patrycja , Hawełek Łukasz , Malec Witold , Leszczyńska-Sejda Katarzyna
Published: August 2021

Lead can be efficiently electrodeposited from a number of common leaching agents such as mineral acids, carboxylic acids, and bases (hydroxides and ammonia). This paper reports the possibility to deposit lead from a triethylenetetramine solution, which is also a powerful extracting agent for lead sulfate. The high affinity of triethylenetetramine towards lead sulfate molecules makes it a promising candidate for lead recovery from various solid materials, including industrial secondary resources, sewages, and wastes. A popular methodology that can be found in the literature to recover metal from amine is based on purging a solution with carbon dioxide, resulting in lead carbonate precipitation. Here, the direct electrodeposition of lead from an amine solution was reported. The effects of the main process parameters, i.e., current density, temperature, and presence of additives, were examined to enhance the product quality. Bone glue, ethylene glycol, and polyvinylpyrolidone were used as perspective inhibitors of dendritic lead formation. It was shown that the addition of ethylene glycol can significantly reduce their formation as well as discoloration resulting from amine, producing lead metal with a 99.9% purity.
Targeting Metabolic Reprogramming to Improve Breast Cancer Treatment: An In Vitro Evaluation of Selected Metabolic Inhibitors Using a Metabolomic Approach
Authors: Draguet Anaïs , Tagliatti Vanessa , Colet Jean-Marie
Published: August 2021

Characteristic metabolic adaptations are recognized as a cancer hallmark. Breast cancer, like other cancer types, displays cellular respiratory switches—in particular, the Warburg effect—and important fluctuations in the glutamine and choline metabolisms. This cancer remains a world health issue mainly due to the side effects associated with chemotherapy, which force a reduction in the administered dose or even a complete discontinuation of the treatment. For example, Doxorubicin is efficient to treat breast cancer but unfortunately induces severe cardiotoxicity. In the present in vitro study, selected metabolic inhibitors were evaluated alone or in combination as potential treatments against breast cancer. In addition, the same inhibitors were used to possibly potentiate the effects of Doxorubicin. As a result, the combination of CB-839 (glutaminase inhibitor) and Oxamate (lactate dehydrogenase inhibitor) and the combination of CB-839/Oxamate/D609 (a phosphatidylcholine-specific phospholipase C inhibitor) caused significant cell mortality in both MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7, two breast cancer cell lines. Furthermore, all inhibitors were able to improve the efficacy of Doxorubicin on the same cell lines. Those findings are quite encouraging with respect to the clinical goal of reducing the exposure of patients to Doxorubicin and, subsequently, the severity of the associated cardiotoxicity, while keeping the same treatment efficacy.
Significance of Metabolite Ratios in the Interpretation of Segmental Hair Testing Results—Differentiation of Single from Chronic Morphine Use in a Case Series
Authors: Madry Milena M. , Poetzsch Sandra N. , Steuer Andrea E. , Kraemer Thomas , Baumgartner Markus R.
Published: August 2021

In morphine intoxication cases, forensic toxicologists are frequently confronted with the question of if the individual was opioid-tolerant or opioid-naïve, which can be investigated by hair analysis. However, interpretation of results can be challenging. Here, we report on hair testing for morphine and its metabolite hydromorphone following morphine intoxication without tolerance and upon chronic use. Two consecutive hair samples were collected after a non-fatal intoxication. Analysis comprised short hair segments and their initial wash water solutions. In the intoxications, morphine and hydromorphone levels were 3.3 to 56 pg/mg and at maximum 9.8 pg/mg, respectively. Both levels and hydromorphone to morphine ratios were significantly lower compared to chronic morphine use. In the non-fatal intoxication, the highest hydromorphone to morphine ratio was obtained in the segment corresponding to the time of intoxication. Morphine ratios of wash to hair were significantly higher in the intoxications compared to chronic use, being indicative of sweat/sebum contamination. We recommend including the analysis of hydromorphone and the initial wash solution in cases of morphine intoxications. Our study demonstrates that hydromorphone to morphine ratios can help in distinguishing single from chronic morphine use and in estimating the period of exposure when a consecutive hair sample can be collected in survived intoxications.
Fiber-Rich Barley Increases Butyric Acid-Producing Bacteria in the Human Gut Microbiota
Authors: Akagawa Shohei , Akagawa Yuko , Nakai Yoko , Yamagishi Mitsuru , Yamanouchi Sohsaku , Kimata Takahisa , Chino Kazushige , Tamiya Taiga , Hashiyada Masaki , Akane Atsushi , Tsuji Shoji , Kaneko Kazunari
Published: August 2021

Butyric acid produced in the intestine by butyric acid-producing bacteria (BAPB) is known to suppress excessive inflammatory response and may prevent chronic disease development. We evaluated whether fiber-rich barley intake increases BAPB in the gut and concomitantly butyric acid in feces. Eighteen healthy adults received granola containing functional barley (BARLEYmax®) once daily for four weeks. Fecal DNA before intake, after intake, and one month after intake was analyzed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing to assess microbial diversity, microbial composition at the order level, and the proportion of BAPB. Fecal butyric acid concentration was also measured. There were no significant differences in diversities and microbial composition between samples. The proportion of BAPB increased significantly after the intake (from 5.9% to 8.2%). However, one month after stopping the intake, the proportion of BAPB returned to the original value (5.4%). Fecal butyric acid concentration increased significantly from 0.99 mg/g feces before intake to 1.43 mg/g after intake (p = 0.028), which decreased significantly to 0.87 mg/g after stopping intake (p = 0.008). As BAPB produce butyric acid by degrading dietary fiber, functional barley may act as a prebiotic, increasing BAPB and consequently butyric acid in the intestine.
Dynamic Performance of Partially Orifice Porous Aerostatic Thrust Bearing
Authors: Sahto Muhammad Punhal , Wang Wei , Sanjrani Ali Nawaz , Hao Chengxu , Shah Sadiq Ali
Published: August 2021

The aerostatic thrust bearing’s performance under vibration brings certain changes in stiffness and stability, especially in the range of 100 to 10,000 Hz, and it is accompanied by significant increase in fluctuations due to the changes in frequency, and the size of the gas film damping. In this research work, an analysis is carried out to evaluate the impact of throttling characteristics of small size orifice on stiffness and stability optimization of aerostatic thrust bearings. There are two types of thrust bearing orifices such as: partial porous multiple orifice and porous thrust bearings and their effects on variations in damping and dynamic stiffness are evaluated. A simulation based analysis is carried out with the help of the perturbation analysis model of an aerostatic thrust bearing simulation by using FLUENT software (CFD). Therefore, two models of aerostatic thrust bearings—one with the porous and other with partial porous orifice are developed—are simulated to evaluate the effects of perturbation frequencies on the damping and dynamic stiffness. The results reveal a decrease in the amplitude of dynamics capacity with an increase in its frequency, as well as a decrease in the damping of partial porous aerostatic thrust bearings with an increase in the number of orifices. It also reveals an increase in the radius of an orifice with an increment of damping of bearing at the same perturbation frequency and, with an increase in orifice height, a corresponding decrease in the damping characteristics of bearings and in the dynamic stiffness and coefficient of damping of bearing film in the frequency range less than 100 Hz.
Numerical Analysis of Viscous Dissipation in Microchannel Sensor Based on Phononic Crystal
Authors: He Juxing , Li Honglang , Tian Yahui , Zhang Qiaozhen , Lu Zixiao , Lan Jianyu
Published: August 2021

Phononic crystals with phononic band gaps varying in different parameters represent a promising structure for sensing. Equipping microchannel sensors with phononic crystals has also become a great area of interest in research. For building a microchannels system compatible with conventional micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) technology, SU-8 is an optimal choice, because it has been used in both fields for a long time. However, its mechanical properties are greatly affected by temperature, as this affects the phononic bands of the phononic crystal. With this in mind, the viscous dissipation in microchannels of flowing liquid is required for application. To solve the problem of viscous dissipation, this article proposes a simulation model that considers the heat transfer between fluid and microchannel and analyzes the frequency domain properties of phononic crystals. The results show that when the channel length reaches 1 mm, the frequency shift caused by viscous dissipation will significantly affect detecting accuracy. Furthermore, the temperature gradient also introduces some weak passbands into the band gap. This article proves that viscous dissipation does influence the band gap of phononic crystal chemical sensors and highlights the necessity of temperature compensation in calibration. This work may promote the application of microchannel chemical sensors in the future.
Mineralogy and Geochemistry of Seabed Sediments of the Chiloé–Taitao Area, Southern Chile, and Implications for Ore Deposits
Authors: Pérez Marisol , García Marcelo , Townley Brian , Deckart Katja
Published: August 2021

The oceanic seabed contains a variety of mineral resources related exclusively to submarine environments. Limited information has been documented for the seabed offshore of Chile, which is particularly interesting due to its geodynamic context and large area. Mineralogical and geochemical analyses of 16 sites within the Chiloé–Taitao area, from 83 to 3388 m in depth, were carried out. The most abundant minerals are quartz, feldspars, pyroxenes, amphiboles, epidote, and biotite, with lower quantities of zircon, white mica, olivine, pyrite, magnetite, ilmenite, and hematite. Framboidal pyrites are mainly present at >900 m depth, and could be associated with methane hydrates, which have been reported in the area and its surroundings. Tenorite, sphalerite, tennantite, cordierite, birnessite, and tellurobismuthite were revealed by XRD analysis at low concentrations but at many sites. Birnessite, a Fe–Mn nodule-forming mineral, was widely detected, and Pearson correlations showed elemental associations related to the presence of Mn oxides. Samples did not evidence Fe–Mn nodules, probably due to the redox and depth conditions. Nonetheless, it is probable that to the west, polymetallic nodules are present in deeper zones. In the southern part of the area, reflective grains were identified, with up to 58.3 wt.% Cu; these grains might be derived from the continent or formed by in situ diagenetic precipitation.
Interaction of Corroding Iron with Eight Bentonites in the Alternative Buffer Materials Field Experiment (ABM2)
Authors: Wersin Paul , Hadi Jebril , Jenni Andreas , Svensson Daniel , Grenèche Jean-Marc , Sellin Patrik , Leupin Olivier X.
Published: August 2021

Bentonite, a common smectite-rich buffer material, is in direct contact with corroding steel in many high-level radioactive waste repository designs. The interaction of iron with the smectite-rich clay may affect its swelling and sealing properties by processes such as alteration, redox reactions and cementation. The chemical interactions were investigated by analysing the Fe/clay interfaces of eight bentonite blocks which had been exposed to temperatures up to 130 °C for five years in the ABM2 borehole at the Äspö Hard Rock Laboratory managed by the Swedish Nuclear Fuel and Waste Management Co (SKB). Eleven interface samples were characterised by high spatial resolution methods, including scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and μ-Raman spectroscopy as well as by “bulk” methods X-ray diffraction, X-ray fluorescence and 57Fe Mössbauer spectrometry. Corrosion induced an iron front of 5–20 mm into the bentonite, except for the high-Fe bentonite where no Fe increase was detected. This Fe front consisted mainly of ferric (oxyhydr)oxides in addition to the structural Fe in the smectite fraction which had been partially reduced by the interaction process. Fe(II) was also found to extend further into the clay, but its nature could not be identified. The consistent behaviour is explained by the redox evolution, which shifts from oxidising to reducing conditions during the experiment. No indication of smectite alteration was found.
Decoupling of Sr-Nd Isotopic Composition Induced by Potassic Alteration in the Shapinggou Porphyry Mo Deposit of the Qinling–Dabie Orogenic Belt, China
Authors: He Jun , Xu Xiaochun , Fu Zhongyang , An Yuhua , Chen Tianhu , Xie Qiaoqin , Chen Fukun
Published: August 2021

In our previous study on petrogenesis of quartz syenite and granite porphyry, the host rocks of the Late Mesozoic Shapinggou Mo deposit in the Qinling–Dabie orogenic belt, we found that the initial Sr isotopic composition of the host rocks is strongly affected by the degree of K-alteration. Here, we provide further isotopic evidence of the host rocks and their minerals to investigate the geochemical behaviour of trace elements and isotopes during the alteration and to explain the phenomenon of decoupling of Sr–Nd isotopic composition. The quartz syenite and granite porphyry are altered by K-alteration in varying degrees and have high K2O and Rb contents and low Na2O, CaO, Sr, and Ba contents. Rock samples of both quartz syenite and granite porphyry have variable Rb/Sr ratios and initial 87Sr/86Sr values (even < 0.70) but contain quite homogeneous εNd(t) values (−12.8 to −14.8). Minerals from the rocks of moderate to intense K-alteration have very low initial 87Sr/86Sr values (even < −17), while those from the weakly altered rocks have 87Sr/86Sr(t) values of 0.7044 to 0.7084. The same phenomenon of the decoupling in Sr–Nd isotopic composition can be observed from several Mo deposits within the eastern Qinling–Dabie orogenic belt. This fact suggests similar hydrothermal features and a comparable origin for both the magmatic rocks and hydrothermal fluids in this belt. A comparison between porphyry Mo and porphyry Cu deposits shows that elements and the Rb–Sr isotope system have different behaviours during the K-alteration, implying distinct material sources and igneous rocks for porphyry Mo and porphyry Cu deposits, respectively.
Photoluminescence of Ni(II), Pd(II), and Pt(II) Complexes [M(Me2dpb)Cl] Obtained from C‒H Activation of 1,5-Di(2-pyridyl)-2,4-dimethylbenzene (Me2dpbH)
Authors: Kletsch Lukas , Jordan Rose , Köcher Alicia S. , Buss Stefan , Strassert Cristian A. , Klein Axel
Published: August 2021

The three complexes [M(Me2dpb)Cl] (M = Ni, Pd, Pt) containing the tridentate N,C,N-cyclometalating 3,5-dimethyl-1,5-dipyridyl-phenide ligand (Me2dpb−) were synthesised using a base-assisted C‒H activation method. Oxidation potentials from cyclic voltammetry increased along the series Pt < Ni < Pd from 0.15 to 0.74 V. DFT calculations confirmed the essentially ligand-centred π*-type character of the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) for all three complexes in agreement with the invariant reduction processes. For the highest occupied molecular orbitals (HOMO), contributions from metal dyz, phenyl C4, C2, C1, and C6, and Cl pz orbitals were found. As expected, the dz2 (HOMO-1 for Ni) is stabilised for the Pd and Pt derivatives, while the antibonding dx2−y2 orbital is de-stabilised for Pt and Pd compared with Ni. The long-wavelength UV-vis absorption band energies increase along the series Ni < Pt < Pd. The lowest-energy TD-DFT-calculated state for the Ni complex has a pronounced dz2-type contribution to the overall metal-to-ligand charge transfer (MLCT) character. For Pt and Pd, the dz2 orbital is energetically not available and a strongly mixed Cl-to-π*/phenyl-to-π*/M(dyz)-to-π* (XLCT/ILCT/MLCT) character is found. The complex [Pd(Me2dpb)Cl] showed a structured emission band in a frozen glassy matrix at 77 K, peaking at 468 nm with a quantum yield of almost unity as observed for the previously reported Pt derivative. No emission was observed from the Ni complex at 77 or 298 K. The TD-DFT-calculated states using the TPSSh functional were in excellent agreement with the observed absorption energies and also clearly assessed the nature of the so-called “dark”, i.e., d‒d*, excited configurations to lie low for the Ni complex (≥3.18 eV), promoting rapid radiationless relaxation. For the Pd(II) and Pt(II) derivatives, the “dark” states are markedly higher in energy with ≥4.41 eV (Pd) and ≥4.86 eV (Pt), which is in perfect agreement with the similar photophysical behaviour of the two complexes at low temperatures.