bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protection of Carbon Steel Rebars by Epoxy Coating with Smart Environmentally Friendly Microcapsules
Authors: Ress Jacob , Martin Ulises , Bosch Juan , Bastidas David M.
Published: January 2021

The protection of mild steel by modified epoxy coating containing colophony microencapsulated corrosion inhibitors was investigated in this study. The corrosion behavior of these epoxy coatings containing colophony microcapsules was studied by electrochemical analysis using cyclic potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The microcapsule coating showed decreased corrosion current densities of 2.75 × 10−8 and 3.21 × 10−8 A/cm2 along with corrosion potential values of 0.349 and 0.392 VSCE for simulated concrete pore solution and deionized water with 3.5 wt.% NaCl, respectively, indicating improved corrosion protection in both alkaline and neutral pH. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy analysis also showed charge transfer resistance values over one order of magnitude higher than the control sample, corroborating the electrochemical corrosion potential and current density testing results. Overall, the use of colophony microcapsules showed improved corrosion protection in simulated concrete pore solution and DI water solutions containing chloride ions.
Characterization of Small Dosimeters Used for Measurement of Eye Lens Dose for Medical Staff during Fluoroscopic Examination
Authors: Matsubara Kosuke , Yoshida Sayu , Hirosawa Ayaka , Chusin Thunyarat , Furukawa Yasushi
Published: January 2021

This study aimed to evaluate the property of small dosimeters used for measuring eye lens doses for medical staff during fluoroscopic examination. Dose linearity, energy dependence, and directional dependence of scattered X-rays were evaluated for small radiophotoluminescence glass dosimeters (RPLDs), those with a tin filter (Sn-RPLDs), and small optically stimulated luminescence dosimeters (OSLDs). These dosimeters were pasted on radioprotective glasses, and accumulated air kerma was obtained after irradiating the X-rays to a patient phantom. Strong correlations existed between fluoroscopic time and accumulated air kerma in all types of dosimeters. The energy dependence of Sn-RPLD and OSLD was smaller than that of RPLD. The relative dose value of the OSLD gradually decreased as the angle of the OSLD against the scattered X-rays was larger or lower than the right angle in the horizontal direction. The ranges of relative dose values of RPLD and Sn-RPLD were larger than that of OSLD in the vertical direction. The OSLDs showed lower doses than the RPLDs and Sn-RPLDs, especially on the right side of the radioprotective glasses. These results showed that RPLDs, Sn-RPLDs, and OSLDs had different dosimeter properties, and influence measured eye lens doses for the physician, especially on the opposite side of the patient.
Exploring the Relationship between Renewable Energy Sources and Economic Growth. The Case of SAARC Countries
Authors: Li Qiucheng , Cherian Jacob , Shabbir Malik Shahzad , Sial Muhammad Safdar , Li Jing , Mester Ioana , Badulescu Alina
Published: January 2021

The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between renewable energy sources and economic growth of the South Asian Association for regional cooperation (SAARC) countries. This study uses three main renewable energy sources, namely geothermal, hydro, and wind.This study collects data set from SAARC countries from 1995 to 2018 and applies a fixed effect test and panel vector error correction model (PVECM) for data analysis. The overall results show that all three renewable energy sources have a positive significant impact on economic development among SAARC countries’ economies. Moreover, hydropower renewable energy has more effects and influences on economic growth as compared to the other two individual sources of renewable energy.
Research on Initiation of Carbon Dioxide Fracturing Pipe Using the Liquid Carbon Dioxide Phase-Transition Blasting Technology
Authors: Xia Jieqin , Dou Bin , Tian Hong , Zheng Jun , Cui Guodong , Kashif Muhammad
Published: January 2021

Liquid carbon dioxide (L-CO2) phase-transition blasting technology (LCPTB) has caused wide concern in many fields, but there is a lack of research on the initiation of the carbon dioxide fracturing pipe. Studies regarding the carbon dioxide fracturing pipe initiation are critical for controlling and optimizing the LCPTB. Therefore, in this article, a series of exploratory experiments of carbon dioxide blasting were carried out to investigate the qualitative and quantitative relationships between the carbon dioxide fracturing pipe initiation and the three key variables (the filling mass of liquid carbon dioxide (L-CO2) (X1), the amount of chemical heating material (X2) and the thickness of the constant-stress shear plate (X3)). The failure mechanisms of three variables on the phase-transition blasting process of a carbon dioxide fracturing pipe was analyzed qualitatively based on experiment temperature, strain curve and failure form of constant-stress shear plate. An empirical model between the carbon dioxide fracturing pipe initiation (Y) and the three key variables (X1, X2, X3) was obtained after processing experiment result data quantitatively. Based on the phase-transition and blasting process of carbon dioxide, two methods, the Viral–Han–Long (VHL) equation of gas state (EOS) and the strength-failure method were used to calculate the blasting pressure and determine the failure mode of the fracturing pipe. The proposed blasting empirical model can be used to optimize the structural design of carbon dioxide fracturing pipes, guide on-site carbon dioxide blasting operations and further achieve the best blasting effect of LCPTB, so this work can enable LCPTB to be better applied to practical projects.
Microgrid and Distributed Energy Resources Standards and Guidelines Review: Grid Connection and Operation Technical Requirements
Authors: Rebollal David , Carpintero-Rentería Miguel , Santos-Martín David , Chinchilla Mónica
Published: January 2021

In this review, the state of the art of 23 distributed generation and microgrids standards has been analyzed. Among these standards, 18 correspond mainly to distributed generation while five of them introduce the concept of microgrid. The following topics have been considered: interconnection criteria, operating conditions, control capabilities, power quality, protection functions and reference variables. The revised national standards cover ten countries on four continents, which represents 80% of the countries with the largest installed renewable capacities. In addition, eight other relevant international standards have been analyzed, finding IEEE 1547 as the most comprehensive standard. It is identified a clear need to define a common framework for distributed energy resources (DERs) and microgrid standards in the future, wherein topics, terminology, and values are expressed in a manner that may widely cover the entire diversity in a way similar to how it has already been expressed at the network transport level by the ENTSO-E codes.
An Innovative 500 W Alkaline Water Electrolyser System for the Production of Ultra-Pure Hydrogen and Oxygen Gases
Authors: Pierozynski Boguslaw , Mikolajczyk Tomasz , Wojciechowski Boguslaw , Luba Mateusz
Published: January 2021

This paper communicates on an innovative, laboratory size alkaline water electrolyser (AWE) system, capable of efficiently producing ultra-pure hydrogen and oxygen gases. The system is composed of a zero-gap, bipolar-electrode stack, equipped with a polymer-based membrane, along with two drying columns for effective purification of H2 and O2 gaseous products. An optimal electrochemical efficiency of the electrolyser stack is provided through the employment of catalytically activated, extended surface-area nickel foam electrodes. Laboratory electrochemical examinations of the electrolyser included a series of galvanostatic AWE and alternating current (a.c.) impedance (single cell) experiments. Complementary examinations covered catalyst’s surface topography analysis by combined SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy) and EDX (Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy) techniques along with chromatographic evaluation of the purity of hydrogen and oxygen products.
Quadrature Voltage Compensation in the Isolated Multi-Modular Converter
Authors: Verdugo Cristian , Candela Jose Ignacio , Rodriguez Pedro
Published: January 2021

Series connections of modules in cascaded multilevel converters are prone to power imbalances due to voltage differences on their DC side. When modules are connected to direct current (DC) sources, such as photovoltaic panels, the capability of withstanding power imbalances is crucial for generating the maximum power. In order to provide a possible solution for this requirement, this paper proposes a control strategy called Quadrature Voltage Compensation, which allows a wide range of power imbalances. The proposed control strategy regulates the power by introducing a circulating current between the arms and a phase angle in the output voltage. The impact of the circulating current and its effect on the phase voltage are studied. To highlight the features of the proposed strategy, an analytical model based on vector superposition is also described, demonstrating the strong capability of tolerating power differences. Finally, to validate the effectiveness of the Quadrature Voltage Compensation, simulation and experimental results are presented for a three-phase isolated multi-modular converter.
Electronic Textiles
Authors: Ehrmann Guido , Ehrmann Andrea
Published: January 2021

Electronic textiles belong to the broader range of smart (or “intelligent”) textiles. Their “smartness” is enabled by embedded or added electronics and allows the sensing of defined parameters of their environment as well as actuating according to these sensor data. For this purpose, different sensors (e.g., temperature, strain, light sensors) and actuators (e.g., LEDs or mechanical actuators) are embedded and connected with a power supply, a data processor, and internal/external communication.
Little Helpers or Mean Rogue—Role of Microglia in Animal Models of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Cihankaya Hilal , Theiss Carsten , Matschke Veronika
Published: January 2021

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is one of the most common neurodegenerative diseases, causing degeneration of both upper and lower motor neurons in the central nervous system (CNS). ALS patients suffer from hyperreflexia, spasticity, paralysis and muscle atrophy and typically die due to respiratory failure 1–5 years after disease onset. In addition to the degeneration of motor neurons on the cellular level, ALS has been associated with neuroinflammation, such as microgliosis. Microglial activation in ALS can either be protective or degenerative to the neurons. Among others, mutations in superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1), chromosome 9 open reading frame 72 (C9Orf72), transactive response DNA binding protein (TDP) 43 and vacuolar protein sorting-associated protein 54 (VPS54) genes have been associated with ALS. Here, we describe the dual role and functionality of microglia in four different in vivo ALS models and search for the lowest common denominator with respect to the role of microglia in the highly heterogeneous disease of ALS.
Relevance of Peroxisome Proliferator Activated Receptors in Multitarget Paradigm Associated with the Endocannabinoid System
Authors: Lago-Fernandez Ana , Zarzo-Arias Sara , Jagerovic Nadine , Morales Paula
Published: January 2021

Cannabinoids have shown to exert their therapeutic actions through a variety of targets. These include not only the canonical cannabinoid receptors CB1R and CB2R but also related orphan G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), ligand-gated ion channels, transient receptor potential (TRP) channels, metabolic enzymes, and nuclear receptors. In this review, we aim to summarize reported compounds exhibiting their therapeutic effects upon the modulation of CB1R and/or CB2R and the nuclear peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs). Concomitant actions at CBRs and PPARα or PPARγ subtypes have shown to mediate antiobesity, analgesic, antitumoral, or neuroprotective properties of a variety of phytogenic, endogenous, and synthetic cannabinoids. The relevance of this multitargeting mechanism of action has been analyzed in the context of diverse pathologies. Synergistic effects triggered by combinatorial treatment with ligands that modulate the aforementioned targets have also been considered. This literature overview provides structural and pharmacological insights for the further development of dual cannabinoids for specific disorders.
Interaction of Intestinal Bacteria with Human Rotavirus during Infection in Children
Authors: Gozalbo-Rovira Roberto , Rubio-del-Campo Antonio , Santiso-Bellón Cristina , Vila-Vicent Susana , Buesa Javier , Delgado Susana , Molinero Natalia , Margolles Abelardo , Yebra María Jesús , Collado María Carmen , Monedero Vicente , Rodríguez-Díaz Jesús
Published: January 2021

The gut microbiota has emerged as a key factor in the pathogenesis of intestinal viruses, including enteroviruses, noroviruses and rotaviruses (RVs), where stimulatory and inhibitory effects on infectivity have been reported. With the aim of determining whether members of the microbiota interact with RVs during infection, a combination of anti-RV antibody labeling, fluorescence-activated cell sorting and 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing was used to characterize the interaction between specific bacteria and RV in stool samples of children suffering from diarrhea produced by G1P[8] RV. The genera Ruminococcus and Oxalobacter were identified as RV binders in stools, displaying enrichments between 4.8- and 5.4-fold compared to samples nonlabeled with anti-RV antibodies. In vitro binding of the G1P[8] Wa human RV strain to two Ruminococcus gauvreauii human isolates was confirmed by fluorescence microscopy. Analysis in R. gauvreauii with antibodies directed to several histo-blood group antigens (HBGAs) indicated that these bacteria express HBGA-like substances on their surfaces, which can be the target for RV binding. Furthermore, in vitro infection of the Wa strain in differentiated Caco-2 cells was significantly reduced by incubation with R. gauvreauii. These data, together with previous findings showing a negative correlation between Ruminococcus levels and antibody titers to RV in healthy individuals, suggest a pivotal interaction between this bacterial group and human RV. These results reveal likely mechanisms of how specific bacterial taxa of the intestinal microbiota could negatively affect RV infection and open new possibilities for antiviral strategies.
In-Depth Immune-Oncology Studies of the Tumor Microenvironment in a Humanized Melanoma Mouse Model
Authors: Schupp Jonathan , Christians Arne , Zimmer Niklas , Gleue Lukas , Jonuleit Helmut , Helm Mark , Tuettenberg Andrea
Published: January 2021

The presence and interaction of immune cells in the tumor microenvironment is of significant importance and has a great impact on disease progression and response to therapy. Hence, their identification is of high interest for prognosis and treatment decisions. Besides detailed phenotypic analyses of immune, as well as tumor cells, spatial analyses is an important parameter in the complex interplay of neoplastic and immune cells—especially when moving into focus efforts to develop and validate new therapeutic strategies. Ex vivo analysis of tumor samples by immunohistochemistry staining methods conserves spatial information is restricted to single markers, while flow cytometry (disrupting tissue into single cell suspensions) provides access to markers in larger numbers. Nevertheless, this comes at the cost of scarifying morphological information regarding tissue localization and cell–cell contacts. Further detrimental effects incurred by, for example, tissue digestion include staining artifacts. Consequently, ongoing efforts are directed towards methods that preserve, completely or in part, spatial information, while increasing the number of markers that can potentially be interrogated to the level of conventional flow cytometric methods. Progression in multiplex immunohistochemistry in the last ten years overcame the limitation to 1–2 markers in classical staining methods using DAB with counter stains or even pure chemical staining methods. In this study, we compared the multiplex method Chipcytometry to flow cytometry and classical IHC-P using DAB and hematoxylin. Chipcytometry uses frozen or paraffin-embedded tissue sections stained with readily available commercial fluorophore-labeled antibodies in repetitive cycles of staining and bleaching. The iterative staining approach enables sequential analysis of a virtually unlimited number of markers on the same sample, thereby identifying immune cell subpopulations in the tumor microenvironment in the present study in a humanized mouse melanoma model.
Roles of the C-Terminal Amino Acids of Non-Hexameric Helicases: Insights from Escherichia coli UvrD
Authors: Yokota Hiroaki
Published: January 2021

Helicases are nucleic acid-unwinding enzymes that are involved in the maintenance of genome integrity. Several parts of the amino acid sequences of helicases are very similar, and these quite well-conserved amino acid sequences are termed “helicase motifs”. Previous studies by X-ray crystallography and single-molecule measurements have suggested a common underlying mechanism for their function. These studies indicate the role of the helicase motifs in unwinding nucleic acids. In contrast, the sequence and length of the C-terminal amino acids of helicases are highly variable. In this paper, I review past and recent studies that proposed helicase mechanisms and studies that investigated the roles of the C-terminal amino acids on helicase and dimerization activities, primarily on the non-hexermeric Escherichia coli (E. coli) UvrD helicase. Then, I center on my recent study of single-molecule direct visualization of a UvrD mutant lacking the C-terminal 40 amino acids (UvrDΔ40C) used in studies proposing the monomer helicase model. The study demonstrated that multiple UvrDΔ40C molecules jointly participated in DNA unwinding, presumably by forming an oligomer. Thus, the single-molecule observation addressed how the C-terminal amino acids affect the number of helicases bound to DNA, oligomerization, and unwinding activity, which can be applied to other helicases.
Genetic Elucidation for Response of Flowering Time to Ambient Temperatures in Asian Rice Cultivars
Authors: Hori Kiyosumi , Saisho Daisuke , Nagata Kazufumi , Nonoue Yasunori , Uehara-Yamaguchi Yukiko , Kanatani Asaka , Shu Koka , Hirayama Takashi , Yonemaru Jun-ichi , Fukuoka Shuichi , Mochida Keiichi
Published: January 2021

Climate resilience of crops is critical for global food security. Understanding the genetic basis of plant responses to ambient environmental changes is key to developing resilient crops. To detect genetic factors that set flowering time according to seasonal temperature conditions, we evaluated differences of flowering time over years by using chromosome segment substitution lines (CSSLs) derived from japonica rice cultivars “Koshihikari” × “Khao Nam Jen”, each with different robustness of flowering time to environmental fluctuations. The difference of flowering times in 9 years’ field tests was large in “Khao Nam Jen” (36.7 days) but small in “Koshihikari” (9.9 days). Part of this difference was explained by two QTLs. A CSSL with a “Khao Nam Jen” segment on chromosome 11 showed 28.0 days’ difference; this QTL would encode a novel flowering-time gene. Another CSSL with a segment from “Khao Nam Jen” in the region around Hd16 on chromosome 3 showed 23.4 days” difference. A near-isogenic line (NIL) for Hd16 showed 21.6 days’ difference, suggesting Hd16 as a candidate for this QTL. RNA-seq analysis showed differential expression of several flowering-time genes between early and late flowering seasons. Low-temperature treatment at panicle initiation stage significantly delayed flowering in the CSSL and NIL compared with “Koshihikari”. Our results unravel the molecular control of flowering time under ambient temperature fluctuations.
Gut Microbiota Influence in Hematological Malignancies: From Genesis to Cure
Authors: Uribe-Herranz Mireia , Klein-González Nela , Rodríguez-Lobato Luis Gerardo , Juan Manel , Fernández de Larrea Carlos
Published: January 2021

Hematological malignancies, including multiple myeloma, lymphoma, and leukemia, are a heterogeneous group of neoplasms that affect the blood, bone marrow, and lymph nodes. They originate from uncontrolled growth of hematopoietic and lymphoid cells from different stages in their maturation/differentiation and account for 6.5% of all cancers around the world. During the last decade, it has been proven that the gut microbiota, more specifically the gastrointestinal commensal bacteria, is implicated in the genesis and progression of many diseases. The immune-modulating effects of the human microbiota extend well beyond the gut, mostly through the small molecules they produce. This review aims to summarize the current knowledge of the role of the microbiota in modulating the immune system, its role in hematological malignancies, and its influence on different therapies for these diseases, including autologous and allogeneic stem cell transplantation, chemotherapy, and chimeric antigen receptor T cells.
Breast Cancer Type Classification Using Machine Learning
Authors: Wu Jiande , Hicks Chindo
Published: January 2021

Background: Breast cancer is a heterogeneous disease defined by molecular types and subtypes. Advances in genomic research have enabled use of precision medicine in clinical management of breast cancer. A critical unmet medical need is distinguishing triple negative breast cancer, the most aggressive and lethal form of breast cancer, from non-triple negative breast cancer. Here we propose use of a machine learning (ML) approach for classification of triple negative breast cancer and non-triple negative breast cancer patients using gene expression data. Methods: We performed analysis of RNA-Sequence data from 110 triple negative and 992 non-triple negative breast cancer tumor samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas to select the features (genes) used in the development and validation of the classification models. We evaluated four different classification models including Support Vector Machines, K-nearest neighbor, Naïve Bayes and Decision tree using features selected at different threshold levels to train the models for classifying the two types of breast cancer. For performance evaluation and validation, the proposed methods were applied to independent gene expression datasets. Results: Among the four ML algorithms evaluated, the Support Vector Machine algorithm was able to classify breast cancer more accurately into triple negative and non-triple negative breast cancer and had less misclassification errors than the other three algorithms evaluated. Conclusions: The prediction results show that ML algorithms are efficient and can be used for classification of breast cancer into triple negative and non-triple negative breast cancer types.
Modified Significance Analysis of Microarrays in Heterogeneous Diseases
Authors: Tzeng I-Shiang
Published: January 2021

Significance analysis of microarrays (SAM) provides researchers with a non-parametric score for each gene based on repeated measurements. However, it may lose certain power in general statistical tests to correctly detect differentially expressed genes (DEGs) which violate homogeneity. Monte Carlo simulation shows that the “half SAM score” can maintain type I error rates of about 0.05 based on assumptions of normal and non-normal distributions. The author found 265 DEGs using the half SAM scoring, more than the 119 DEGs detected by SAM, with the false discovery rate controlled at 0.05. In conclusion, the author recommends the half SAM scoring method to detect DEGs in data that show heterogeneity.
Methods to Assess Fat Mass in Infants and Young Children: A Comparative Study Using Skinfold Thickness and Air-Displacement Plethysmography
Authors: Kouwenhoven Stefanie M. P. , Antl Nadja , Twisk Jos W. R. , Koletzko Berthold V. , Finken Martijn J. J. , van Goudoever Johannes B.
Published: January 2021

Background: Traditionally, fat mass is estimated using anthropometric models. Air-displacement plethysmography (ADP) is a relatively new technique for determining fat mass. There is limited information on the agreement between these methods in infants and young children. Therefore we aimed to longitudinally compare fat mass percentage values predicted from skinfold thicknesses (SFTs) and ADP in healthy infants and young children. Methods: Anthropometry and body composition were determined at the ages of 1, 4, and 6 months and 2 years. We quantified the agreement between the two methods using the Bland–Altman procedure, linear mixed-model analysis, and intra-class correlation coefficients (ICC). Results: During the first 6 months of life, fat mass% predicted with SFT was significantly different from that measured with ADP in healthy, term-born infants (n = 245). ICCs ranged from 0.33 (at 2 years of age) and 0.47 (at 4 months of age). Although the mean difference (bias) between the methods was low, the Bland–Altman plots showed proportional differences at all ages with wide limits of agreement. Conclusions: There is poor agreement between ADP and SFTs for estimating fat mass in infancy or early childhood. The amount of body fat was found to influence the agreement between the methods.
Natural and Artificial Mechanisms of Mitochondrial Genome Elimination
Authors: Zakirova Elvira G. , Muzyka Vladimir V. , Mazunin Ilya O. , Orishchenko Konstantin E.
Published: January 2021

The generally accepted theory of the genetic drift of mitochondrial alleles during mammalian ontogenesis is based on the presence of a selective bottleneck in the female germline. However, there is a variety of different theories on the pathways of genetic regulation of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) dynamics in oogenesis and adult somatic cells. The current review summarizes present knowledge on the natural mechanisms of mitochondrial genome elimination during mammalian development. We also discuss the variety of existing and developing methodologies for artificial manipulation of the mtDNA heteroplasmy level. Understanding of the basics of mtDNA dynamics will shed the light on the pathogenesis and potential therapies of human diseases associated with mitochondrial dysfunction.
Insight into Thermal Stress Distribution and Required Reinforcement Reducing Early-Age Cracking in Mass Foundation Slabs
Authors: Klemczak Barbara , Żmij Aneta
Published: January 2021

The heat released during cement hydration results in temperature-induced non-uniform volume changes in concrete structures. As a consequence, tensile thermal stresses of significant values may occur. The level of these stresses can be lowered by using various technological measures during the construction process and a proper concrete mix composition. Nevertheless, the application of an appropriate reinforcement is a reliable method for controlling the width and spacing of possible cracks. The rules for calculating this reinforcement are not precisely detailed in the standards devoted to concrete structures. Additionally, the correct calculation of the reinforcement requires the identification of the tensile stress distribution in a mass slab. The presented study provides insight into stress distribution and relevant reinforcement for controlling early-age cracks of thermal origin. The existing standards and guidelines are discussed and clarified. The possible paths for calculating the reinforcement are proposed through the example of mass foundation slabs with different levels of external restraints. The results indicate a significant impact of the calculation method as well as the restraint conditions of the slab on the area of required reinforcement.
Concept of Similarity Method for Prediction of Fatigue Life of Pavement Structures with HiMA Binder in Asphalt Layers
Authors: Złotowska Magdalena , Nagórski Roman , Błażejowski Krzysztof
Published: January 2021

Since 2009, SBS (styrene-butadiene-styrene) polymer-modified binders (HiMA—Highly Modified Asphalt) have been tested worldwide. Highly modified binders are characterized by extraordinary properties resulting from the reversal of the binder-polymer phase. This contributes to very good test results for asphalt mixes. The use of such a modern binder poses a challenge in terms of structure design, mainly due to the lack of a recognized and calibrated method suitable for this material. The article proposes a new approach to pavement fatigue life estimation—the Similarity Method—which is based on the use of AASHTO 2004 equations and laboratory fatigue testing results of asphalt concrete mixes for asphalt base course. The article presents the method and the results of its sensitivity testing with respect to the influence of the material (type of asphalt concrete), thickness of the asphalt base course, stiffness of the subgrade and the assumed FC index (the area of bottom-up cracks). The results of fatigue life according to the Similarity Method are within the range of values obtained for AASHTO 2004 and the fatigue results according to the equations obtained in the laboratory. This approach will enable inclusion of new materials, such as HiMA asphalt mixtures, in pavement structure design.
A Mechanical Analysis of Chemically Stimulated Linear Shape Memory Polymer Actuation
Authors: Dumlu Hakan , Marquardt Axel , Zirdehi Elias , Varnik Fathollah , Shen Yucen , Neuking Klaus , Eggeler Gunther
Published: January 2021

In the present work, we study the role of programming strain (50% and 100%), end loads (0, 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 MPa), and chemical environments (acetone, ethanol, and water) on the exploitable stroke of linear shape memory polymer (SMP) actuators made from ESTANE ETE 75DT3 (SMP-E). Dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA) shows how the uptake of solvents results in a decrease in the glass temperature of the molecular switch component of SMP-E. A novel in situ technique allows studying chemically triggered shape recovery as a function of time. It is found that the velocity of actuation decreases in the order acetone > ethanol > water, while the exploitable strokes show the inverse tendency and increases in the order water > ethanol > acetone. The results are interpreted on the basis of the underlying chemical (how solvents affect thermophysical properties) and micromechanical processes (the phenomenological spring dashpot model of Lethersich type rationalizes the behavior). The study provides initial data which can be used for micromechanical modeling of chemically triggered actuation of SMPs. The results are discussed in the light of underlying chemical and mechanical elementary processes, and areas in need of further work are highlighted.
Dynamic Moduli of Polybutylene Terephthalate Glass Fiber Reinforced in High-Temperature Environments
Authors: Gómez Carmelo , Mira Jorge , Carrión-Vilches F.J. , Cavas Francisco
Published: January 2021

The aim of this work was to show the evolution over time of the dynamic moduli in components made of Polybutylene Terephthalate reinforced with glass fiber when they are held to temperatures close to the glass transition temperature over time. For this purpose, PBT samples reinforced with short, glass fibers of Ultradur® material with 0%, 20%, and 50% in weight content were tested. Dynamic moduli showed an increment with glass fiber content showing a nonlinear behavior with the temperature. The evolution of storage modulus was depicted by means of a modified law of mixtures with an effectiveness factor depending on temperature and fiber content, whereas the evolution over time was obtained with a time–temperature transformation generated with the TTS Data Analysis software of TA-instruments for a given temperature. Storage modulus showed a linear relationship with glass fiber content when components were held to temperatures near to their respective glass transition temperature, obtained from the maximum of loss modulus curve with temperature. In summary, the value and evolution of dynamic moduli of PBT samples improved with glass fiber content, allowing us to increase the durability of components when they are submitted to high-temperature environments.
Ultrafiltration Fractionation of Bovine Hemoglobin Hydrolysates: Prediction of Separation Performances for Optimal Enrichment in Antimicrobial Peptide
Authors: Beaubier Sophie , Przybylski Rémi , Bodin Alice , Nedjar Naïma , Dhulster Pascal , Kapel Romain
Published: January 2021

Hydrolysis of bovine hemoglobin (bHb), the main constituent of bovine cruor by-product, releases a natural antimicrobial peptide (NKT) which could present a major interest for food safety. To enrich this, tangential ultrafiltration can be implemented, but ultrafiltration conditions are mainly empirically established. In this context, the application of a simulation method for predicting the NKT yield and enrichment was investigated. Ultrafiltration performances were studied for decolored bHb hydrolysates at different degrees of hydrolysis (DH; 3%, 5%, 10% and 18%) and colored hydrolysates (3% and 5% DH) with 1 and 3 kg·mol−1 regenerated cellulose membranes. The simulation method helped to identify the most promising hydrolysate (in terms of NKT enrichment, yield and productivity) as the 3% DH colored hydrolysate, and UF conditions (volumetric reduction factor of 5 and 3 with 1 and 3 kg·mol−1 membrane, respectively) for higher antimicrobial recovery. A maximal enrichment factor of about 29 and NKT purity of 70% in permeate were observed. The results showed that the antimicrobial activity was in relation with the process selectivity and NKT purity. Finally, this reliable method, applied for predicting the ultrafiltration performances to enrich peptides of interest, is part of a global approach to rationally valorize protein resources from various by-products.
New Metallic Damper with Multiphase Behavior for Seismic Protection of Structures
Authors: Benavent-Climent Amadeo , Escolano-Margarit David , Arcos-Espada Julio , Ponce-Parra Hermes
Published: January 2021

This paper proposes a new metallic damper based on the plastic deformation of mild steel. It is intended to function as an energy dissipation device in structures subjected to severe or extreme earthquakes. The damper possesses a gap mechanism that prevents high-cycle fatigue damage under wind loads. Furthermore, subjected to large deformations, the damper presents a reserve of strength and energy dissipation capacity that can be mobilized in the event of extreme ground motions. An extensive experimental investigation was conducted, including static cyclic tests of the damper isolated from the structure, and dynamic shake-table tests of the dampers installed in a reinforced concrete structure. Four phases are distinguished in the response. Based on the results of the tests, a hysteretic model for predicting the force-displacement curve of the damper under arbitrary cyclic loadings is presented. The model accurately captures the increment of stiffness and strength under very large deformations. The ultimate energy dissipation capacity of the damper is found to differ depending on the phase in which it fails, and new equations are proposed for its prediction. It is concluded that the damper has a stable hysteretic response, and that the cyclic behavior, the ultimate energy dissipation capacity and failure are highly predictable with a relatively simple numerical model.
Physiological Responses of Post-Dietary Effects: Lessons from Pre-Clinical and Clinical Studies
Authors: Yeung Christy , Shi Irisa Qianwen , Sung Hoon-Ki
Published: January 2021

Dieting regimens such as calorie restriction (CR) are among the most commonly practiced interventions for weight management and metabolic abnormalities. Due to its independence from pharmacological agents and considerable flexibility in regimens, many individuals turn to dieting as a form of mitigation and maintenance of metabolic health. While metabolic benefits of CR have been widely studied, weight loss maintenance and metabolic benefits are reported to be lost overtime when the diet regimen has been terminated—referred to as post-dietary effects. Specifically, due to the challenges of long-term adherence and compliance to dieting, post-dietary repercussions such as body weight regain and loss of metabolic benefits pose as major factors in the efficacy of CR. Intermittent fasting (IF) regimens, which are defined by periodic energy restriction, have been deemed as more flexible, compliant, and easily adapted diet interventions that result in many metabolic benefits which resemble conventional CR diets. Many individuals find that IF regimens are easier to adhere to, resulting in fewer post-dietary effects; therefore, IF may be a more effective intervention. Unfortunately, there is a severe gap in current research regarding IF post-dietary effects. We recognize the importance of understanding the sustainability of dieting; as such, we will review the known physiological responses of CR post-dietary effects and its potential mechanisms through synthesizing lessons from both pre-clinical and clinical studies. This review aims to provide insight from a translational medicine perspective to allow for the development of more practical and effective diet interventions. We suggest more flexible and easily practiced dieting regimens such as IF due to its more adaptable and practical nature.
Early Permian Granitic Magmatism in Middle Part of the Northern Margin of the North China Craton: Petrogenesis, Source, and Tectonic Setting
Authors: Li Longxue , Hou Qingye , Huang Dingling , Wang Xinyu
Published: January 2021

The late Palaeozoic was an important period of tectonic evolution for the northern margin of the North China Craton (NCC). The source(s) and tectonic setting of early Permian granitoid rocks emplaced along the northern margin of the NCC are still unclear. These granitoids formed between ~295.4–276.1 Ma (uncertainties ranging from ±1.5 to ±7.8 Ma) according to zircon laser ablation inductively coupled mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) and sensitive high-resolution ion microprobe (SHRIMP) U-Pb data. The Dadongou (DDG) pluton is an A1-type granite and the Dananfangzi (DNFZ) pluton is an A2-type granite. The Erdaowa (EDW), Lisicun (LSC), Wuhai (WH) and Gehuasitai (GHST) plutons are I-type granites. The Yuanbaoshan (YBS) dykes are diorite and syenodiorite. All the granitoids are enriched in large ion lithophile elements and light rare earth elements, depleted in high field strength elements and have negative εNd(t) and εHf(t) values. The A1-type granite was formed by the melting of the mafic crust. The A2-type granite was derived from partial melting of tonalite gneiss from the NCC crust and mantle materials. The EDW, LSC, WH and GHST granites mainly originated from partially melted granulite, with some mantle input. The YBS dykes are formed by the magma mixing of hot mantle melt and the relatively cold crustal magma. The northern margin of the NCC experienced anorogenic and collision tectonic stages, and the structural setting started to transform to post-collision at the later period of early Permian.
Synthesis and Structure of Nido-Carboranyl Azide and Its “Click” Reactions
Authors: Druzina Anna A. , Zhidkova Olga B. , Dudarova Nadezhda V. , Kosenko Irina D. , Ananyev Ivan V. , Timofeev Sergey V. , Bregadze Vladimir I.
Published: January 2021

Novel zwitter-ionic nido-carboranyl azide 9-N3(CH2)3Me2N-nido-7,8-C2B9H11 was prepared by the reaction of 9-Cl(CH2)3Me2N-nido-7,8-C2B9H11 with NaN3. The solid-state molecular structure of nido-carboranyl azide was determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. 9-N3(CH2)3Me2N-nido-7,8-C2B9H11 was used for the copper(I)-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition with phenylacetylene, alkynyl-3β-cholesterol and cobalt/iron bis(dicarbollide) terminal alkynes to form the target 1,2,3-triazoles. The nido-carborane-cholesterol conjugate 9-3β-Chol-O(CH2)C-CH-N3(CH2)3Me2N-nido-7,8-C2B9H11 with charge-compensated group in a linker can be used as a precursor for preparation of liposomes for Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT). A series of novel zwitter-ionic boron-enriched cluster compounds bearing a 1,2,3-triazol-metallacarborane-carborane conjugated system was synthesized. Prepared conjugates contain a large amount of boron atom in the biomolecule and potentially can be used for BNCT.
Coloration and Chromatic Sensing Behavior of Electrospun Cellulose Fibers with Curcumin
Authors: Kim Minhee , Lee Hoik , Kim Myungwoong , Park Yoon Cheol
Published: January 2021

The effective approach for coloration and chromatic sensing of electrospun cellulose fabrics with a natural colorant, curcumin, is demonstrated. To achieve high surface area, the morphology of fiber was controlled to have rough and porous surface through an electrospinning of a cellulose acetate (CA) solution under optimized electrospinning parameters and solvent system. The resulting CA fibers were treated with a curcumin dye/NaOH ethanol solution, in which deacetylation of the CA fiber and high-quality coloration with curcumin were simultaneously achieved. As a control, a cotton fiber with similar diameter and smooth surface morphology was treated by the same method, resulting in poor coloration quality. The difference can be attributed to high surface area as well as trapping of dye molecules inside of cellulose fiber during deacetylation. Both fibers were further utilized for a chromatic sensing application for specific toxic gases. The incorporated curcumin dye responded to hydrogen chloride and ammonia gases reversibly via keto-enol tautomerism, and, as a consequence, the color was reversibly changed between reddish-brown and yellow colors. The cellulose fiber fabricated by the electrospinning showed ten times higher and two times quicker responsiveness compared to curcumin-colored cotton fiber sample prepared with the same immersion method.
Single and Repeated Applications of Cerium Oxide Nanoparticles Differently Affect the Growth and Biomass Accumulation of Silene flos-cuculi L. (Caryophyllaceae)
Authors: Lizzi Daniel , Mattiello Alessandro , Piani Barbara , Gava Emanuele , Fellet Guido , Marchiol Luca
Published: January 2021

Cerium oxide nanoparticles (nCeO2) have a wide variety of applications in industry. Models demonstrated that nCeO2 can reach environmental compartments. Studies regarding the relationships between plants and nCeO2 considered only crop species, whereas a relevant knowledge gap exists regarding wild plant species. Specimens of Silene flos-cuculi (Caryophyllaceae) were grown in greenhouse conditions in a substrate amended with a single dose (D1) and two and three doses (D2 and D3) of 20 mg kg−1 and 200 mg kg−1nCeO2 suspensions, respectively. sp-ICP-MS and ICP-MS data demonstrated that nCeO2 was taken up by plant roots and translocated towards aerial plant fractions. Biometric variables showed that plants responded negatively to the treatments with a shortage in biomass of roots and stems. Although not at relevant concentrations, Ce was accumulated mainly in roots and plant leaves.
A Review of Risk Factors of African Swine Fever Incursion in Pig Farming within the European Union Scenario
Authors: Bellini Silvia , Casadei Gabriele , De Lorenzi Giorgia , Tamba Marco
Published: January 2021

African swine fever (ASF) is a notifiable viral disease of pigs and wild boars that could lead to serious economic losses for the entire European pork industry. As no effective treatment or vaccination is available, disease prevention and control rely on strictly enforced biosecurity measures tailored to the specific risk factors of ASF introduction within domestic pig populations. Here, we present a review addressing the risk factors associated with different European pig farming systems in the context of the actual epidemiological scenario. A list of keywords was combined into a Boolean query, “African swine fever” AND (“Risk factors” OR “Transmission” OR “Spread” OR “Pig farming” OR “Pigs” OR “Wild boars”); was run on 4 databases; and resulted in 52 documents of interest being reviewed. Based on our review, each farming system has its own peculiar risk factors: commercial farms, where best practices are already in place, may suffer from unintentional breaches in biosecurity, while backyard and outdoor farms may suffer from poor ASF awareness, sociocultural factors, and contact with wild boars. In the literature selected for our review, human-related activities and behaviours are presented as the main risks, but we also stress the need to implement biosecurity measures also tailored to risks factors that are specific for the different pig farming practices in the European Union (EU).
Genome Sequence and Adaptation Analysis of the Human and Rice Pathogenic Strain Burkholderia glumae AU6208
Authors: Cui Zhouqi , Wang Sai , Kakar Kaleem Ullah , Xie Guanglin , Li Bin , Chen Gongyou , Zhu Bo
Published: January 2021

Burkholderia glumae causes rice (Oryza sativa) bacterial panicle blight, which is an increasingly economically important disease worldwide. As the first B. glumae strain isolated from patients with chronic infections, AU6208 has been reported as an opportunistic clinic pathogen. However, our understanding of the molecular mechanism underlying human pathogenesis by B. glumae remains rudimentary. In this study, we report the complete genome sequence of the human-isolated B. glumae strain AU6208 and compare this to the genome of the rice-pathogenic B. glumae type strain LMG 2196T. Analysis of the average nucleotide identity demonstrated 99.4% similarity between the human- and plant-pathogenic strains. However, the phenotypic results from this study suggest a history of niche adaptation and divergence. In particular, we found 44 genes were predicted to be horizontally transferred into AU6208, and most of these genes were upregulated in conditions that mimic clinical conditions. In these, the gene pair sbnAB encodes key enzymes in antibiotic biosynthesis. These results suggest that horizontal gene transfer in AU6208 may be responsible for selective advantages in its pathogenicity in humans. Our analysis of the AU6208 genome and comparison with that of LMG 2196T reveal the evolutionary signatures of B. glumae in the process of switching niches from plants to humans.
Beyond the IFA: Revisiting the ELISA as a More Sensitive, Objective, and Quantitative Evaluation of Spotted Fever Group Rickettsia Exposure
Authors: Alugubelly Navatha , Stokes John V. , Cross Claire E. , Ross Anne-Marie L. , Crawford Anna E. , Fiihr Gabrielle F. , Varela-Stokes Andrea S.
Published: January 2021

Based on limited serological studies, at least 10% of the US population has been exposed to spotted fever group Rickettsia (SFGR) species. The immunofluorescence antibody assay (IFA) has been the gold standard for the serodiagnosis of rickettsial infections such as spotted fever rickettsiosis (SFR). However, the IFA is semi-quantitative and subjective, requiring a high level of expertise to interpret it correctly. Here, we developed an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the serodiagnosis of Rickettsia parkeri infection in the guinea pig. Our ELISA is an objective, quantitative, and high-throughput assay that shows greater sensitivity and resolution in observed titers than the IFA. We methodically optimized relevant parameters in sequence for optimal signal-to-noise ratio and low coefficient of variation% values. We used a guinea pig model as it is a part of our overall research efforts to understand the immunological and clinical response to SFGR species after tick transmission. Guinea pigs are a useful model to study SFR and show clinical signs of SFR, such as fever and eschars. We anticipate that this assay will be easily adapted to other hosts, including humans and other SFGR species.