bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evidence of Limitations of the Transconductance-to-Drain-Current Method (gm/Id) for Transistor Sizing in 28 nm UTBB FD-SOI Transistors
Authors: Barboni Leonardo
Published: May 2020

The transconductance-to-drain-current method is a transistor sizing methodology that is commonly used in CMOS technology. In this study, we explored by means of simulations, a case of study and three figures of merit used for the method, and we conclude for the first time that the method should be reformulated. The study has been performed on Ultra-Thin Body and Buried Fully Depleted Silicon-On-Insulator 28 nm low-voltage-threshold NFET commercial technology (UTBB FD-SOI), and the simulations were performed via Spectre Circuit Simulator, by using the device model-card. To our knowledge, no previous attempts have been made to assess the method capability, and we collected very important results that infer that the method should be reformulated or considered incomplete for use with this technology, which has an impact and ramifications on the field of process modeling, simulation and circuit design.
Smart Villages: Where Can They Happen?
Authors: Komorowski Łukasz , Stanny Monika
Published: May 2020

The European Union is actively promoting the idea of “smart villages”. The increased uptake of new technology and in particular, the use of the internet, is seen as a vital part of strategies to combat rural decline. It is evident that those areas most poorly connected to the internet are those confronted by the greatest decline. The analysis in this paper is based on Poland, which at the time of EU accession had many deeply disadvantaged rural areas. Using fine-grained socio-economic data, an association can be found between weak internet access and rural decline in Poland. The preliminary conclusions about the utility of the smart village concept as a revitalisation tool for rural Poland point to theoretical and methodological dilemmas. Barriers to the concept’s implementation are also observed, although there is a chance they may be overcome with the continued spread of information and communication technologies in rural areas.
Sustainable Residential Building Considerations for Rural Areas: A Case Study
Authors: Fulton Lawrence , Beauvais Bradley , Brooks Matthew , Kruse Scott , Lee Kimberly
Published: May 2020

Intelligent use of rural residential land and sustainable construction is inexorably linked to cost; however, options exist that are eco-friendly and have a positive return on investment. In 2011, a research residence was built to evaluate various land-use and sustainable components. This Texas house has subsequently been used for both residential and research purposes. The purpose of this case study was to evaluate break-even construction considerations, to assess environmental impacts, and to evaluate qualitatively efficacy of sustainable options incorporated in the research residence. Some of the specific components discussed are home site placement (directional positioning); materiel acquisition (transportation); wood product minimization; rainwater harvesting; wastewater management; grid-tied solar array power; electric car charging via a solar array; geothermal heating and cooling; insulation selection; windows, fixtures, and appliance selection; and on-demand electric water heaters for guest areas. This study seeks to identify the impact of proper land use and sustainable techniques on the environment and return-on-investment in rural areas. Break-even and 15-year Net Present Value (NPV) analysis at 3% and 5% cost of capital were used to evaluate traditional construction, partially sustainable construction, and fully sustainable construction options for the case study house, which was built sustainably. The additional cost of sustainable construction is estimated at $54,329. At 3%, the analysis suggests a 15-year NPV of $334,355 (traditional) versus $250,339 million (sustainable) for a difference of $84K. At 5% cost of capital, that difference falls to $63K. The total estimated annual difference in carbon emissions is 4.326 million g/CO2e for this research residence. The results indicate that good choices for quick return-on-investment in rural construction would be the use of engineered lumber, Icynene foam, and Energy Star windows and doors. Medium-term options include photovoltaic systems (PVS) capable of powering the home and an electric car. Sustainable construction options should positively affect the environment and the pocketbook. Regulations and code should require adoption of short-range, break-even sustainable solutions in residential construction.
Land Use/Land Cover Data of the Urban Atlas and the Cadastre of Real Estate: An Evaluation Study in the Prague Metropolitan Region
Authors: Micek Ondrej , Feranec Jan , Stych Premysl
Published: May 2020

Landscape research involves a large number of scientific disciplines. Different disciplinary and scale approaches have led to the creation of numerous land use/land cover databases with different classification nomenclature. It is very important for end-users of databases to know the capabilities and limits of land use/land cover data to avoid potential mistakes resulting from inappropriate combinations and interpretations. In this context, the aim of this study was to evaluate the thematic content of the Urban Atlas database and data from the Czech cadastre of real estate in the Prague metropolitan region between the years 2006 and 2012 with a focus on the meaning of the nomenclature used by both datasets. The data were processed using approaches with different levels of thematic harmonisation and statistical tools to quantify the similarities and differences among the researched data. The methods of comparison used for land use/land cover data with different nomenclature were based on an aggregation approach or modified difference indices (the overall difference index and the sub-index of the difference). The areas with high degrees of dissimilarity and similarity were found and further examined and interpreted. These intentions were documented precisely on the Czech cadastre of real estate and the Urban Atlas databases at two scale levels: 1) an analysis of the whole area of the Prague metropolitan region and 2) a detailed analysis of the selected cadastral units. It was proven that the differences between both datasets are significant and they share certain characteristics. Most of the differences are distributed in the classes of the built-up areas, gardens, and other areas. Smaller differences are characteristic for waterways, agricultural lands, and forests. This study provides relevant information on the evaluated databases with the intention of raising awareness of their limits, strengths, and weaknesses. The results enhance the scientific knowledge about the Urban Atlas and Czech cadastre of real estate databases, thereby facilitating decision-making about the options of their use.
A Comparative Analysis of a Detailed and Semi-Detailed Soil Mapping for Sustainable Land Management Using Conventional and Currently Applied Methodologies in Greece
Authors: Kairis Orestis , Dimitriou Vassiliki , Aratzioglou Chrysoula , Gasparatos Dionisios , Yassoglou Nicholas , Kosmas Constantinos , Moustakas Nikolaos
Published: May 2020

Two soil mapping methodologies at different scales applied in the same area were compared in order to investigate the potential of their combined use to achieve an integrated and more accurate soil description for sustainable land use management. The two methodologies represent the main types of soil mapping systems used and still applied in soil surveys in Greece. Diomedes Botanical Garden (DBG) (Athens, Greece) was used as a study area because past cartographic data of soil survey were available. The older soil survey data were obtained via the conventional methodology extensively used over time since the beginnings of soil mapping in Greece (1977). The second mapping methodology constitutes the current soil mapping system in Greece recently used for compilation of the national soil map. The obtained cartographic and soil data resulting from the application of the two methodologies were analyzed and compared using appropriate geospatial techniques. Even though the two mapping methodologies have been performed at different mapping scales, using partially different mapping symbols and different soil classification systems, the description of the soils based on the cartographic symbols of the two methodologies presented an agreement of 63.7% while the soil classification by the two taxonomic systems namely Soil Taxonomy and World Reference Base for Soil Resources had an average coincidence of 69.5%.
Biosignatures Associated with Freshwater Microbialites
Authors: White Richard Allen , Soles Sarah A. , Brady Allyson L. , Southam Gordon , Lim Darlene S.S. , Slater Greg F.
Published: May 2020

Freshwater microbialites (i.e., lithifying microbial mats) are quite rare in northern latitudes of the North American continent, with two lakes (Pavilion and Kelly Lakes) of southeastern BC containing a morphological variety of such structures. We investigated Kelly Lake microbialites using carbon isotope systematics, phospholipid fatty acids (PLFAs) and quantitative PCR to obtain biosignatures associated with microbial metabolism. δ13CDIC values (mean δ13CDIC −4.9 ± 1.1‰, n = 8) were not in isotopic equilibrium with the atmosphere; however, they do indicate 13C-depleted inorganic carbon into Kelly Lake. The values of carbonates on microbialite surfaces (δ13C) fell within the range predicted for equilibrium precipitation from ambient lake water δ13CDIC (−2.2 to −5.3‰). Deep microbialites (26 m) had an enriched δ13Ccarb value of −0.3 ± 0.5‰, which is a signature of photoautotrophy. The deeper microbialites (>20 m) had higher biomass estimates (via PLFAs), and a greater relative abundance of cyanobacteria (measured by 16S copies via qPCR). The majority of PLFAs constituted monounsaturated and saturated PLFAs, which is consistent with gram-negative bacteria, including cyanobacteria. The central PLFA δ13C values were highly depleted (−9.3 to −15.7‰) relative to δ13C values of bulk organic matter, suggesting a predominance of photoautotrophy. A heterotrophic signature was also detected via the depleted iso- and anteiso-15:0 lipids (−3.2 to −5.2‰). Based on our carbonate isotopic biosignatures, PLFA, and qPCR measurements, photoautotrophy is enriched in the microbialites of Kelly Lake. This photoautotrophy enrichment is consistent with the microbialites of neighboring Pavilion Lake. This indication of photoautotrophy within Kelly Lake at its deepest depths raises new insights into the limits of measurable carbonate isotopic biosignatures under light and nutrient limitations.
Crosslinked Hyaluronic Acid Gels for the Prevention of Intrauterine Adhesions after a Hysteroscopic Myomectomy in Women with Submucosal Myomas: A Prospective, Randomized, Controlled Trial
Authors: Huang Chen-Yu , Chang Wen-Hsun , Cheng Min , Huang Hsin-Yi , Horng Huann-Cheng , Chen Yi-Jen , Lee Wen-Ling , Wang Peng-Hui
Published: May 2020

Intrauterine adhesion (IUA), fibrosis, and scarring resulting from damage to the endometrium is a rare but serious clinical disease, contributing to a significant impairment of reproductive function. Uterine instrumentation, especially that of a hysteroscopic myomectomy, has become the main cause of IUA. Therefore, a prospective randomized controlled study to assess the effectiveness and short-term safety of the use of hyaluronic acid gels in the prevention of IUA after a hysteroscopic myomectomy and an evaluation of the characteristics of IUA observed at follow-up are presented here. A total of 70 patients were analyzed at the end of 16 March 2020. The results show that the incidence of IUA in women who underwent a hysteroscopic myomectomy is 21.4% (15/70), overall. Women treated with hyaluronic acid gels have a statistically significantly lower incidence of IUAs than non-treated women (12.8% vs. 39.1%, p = 0.012). In addition, women in the anti-adhesive gel treatment group had a dramatically reduced severity of IUA than women in the no-treatment group (p = 0.002). Further analysis shows that the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) classification type and the use of anti-adhesive gels are independent factors associated with moderate and severe degrees of IUA formation. The results here highlight the significant therapeutic benefits of the application of hyaluronic acid gels in women undergoing a hysteroscopic myomectomy, especially for those patients with a uterine myoma classified as FIGO type 2. Since the risk of IUA after a hysteroscopic myomectomy is high, especially for patients who have not received prophylactic anti-adhesive gels, the application of hyaluronic acid gels as a prevention strategy is highly recommended. More studies are encouraged to confirm our observation.
Recycling of a Concrete Pavement after over 80 Years in Service
Authors: Rudnicki Tomasz , Jurczak Robert
Published: May 2020

This article presents the results of fatigue testing and assessment of the mechanical and physical properties of the concrete pavement of the A6 motorway, which was put in service in 1938. After 82 years of operation under heavy traffic loading conditions, the pavement was fully recycled by crushing of the existing concrete and reuse of the reclaimed material in the new courses of pavement placed as part of the motorway renewal project. The main objective of this research was to determine the properties of the tested concrete, including compressive strength, water absorption and freeze-thaw resistance after 150 cycles of alternate freezing and thawing. The resistance of the concrete to the action of de-icing products was also checked. The article also presents the results of petrographic analysis of the aggregates. Additionally, concrete sampled from the pavement was evaluated for freeze-thaw resistance in relation to the determined porosity characteristics. The tested concrete, which was subjected to over 80 years of traffic loading on the A6 motorway, was found to meet the highest requirements as currently applied for the extra heavy-duty pavements. With a compressive strength value in excess of 50 MPa, the tested concrete can be rated at least CC40, according to EN 13877-2:2013-08. The samples were found to satisfy the freeze-thaw resistance requirements of an F150 rating. The air void analysis showed that the analyzed concrete contained 1.6% of micropores, i.e., air voids smaller than 300 μm (A300). The spacing factor, in turn, was below 0.200 mm (L = 0.185 mm). The example of the A6 motorway renewal project served to demonstrate that reclaimed concrete aggregate, obtained by crushing the entire pavement, can be used for production of the new pavement courses.
Effect of 808 nm Semiconductor Laser on the Stability of Orthodontic Micro-Implants: A Split-Mouth Study
Authors: Matys Jacek , Flieger Rafał , Gedrange Tomasz , Janowicz Krzysztof , Kempisty Bartosz , Grzech-Leśniak Kinga , Dominiak Marzena
Published: May 2020

Background: To evaluate the effect of photobiomodulation (PBM) on orthodontic micro-implants (n = 44; 14 women, 8 men). Methods: PBM with 808 nm diode laser was applied immediately, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, and 30 days post the implantation. Results were assessed within same time frames and additionally after 60 days to check for implants stability using the Periotest device. Patients pain experiences following the first day post-treatment and potential loss of micro-implants after 60 days were recorded. The procedure involved insertion of mini-implants in the maxilla for the laser group (L, n = 22) and negative control group (C, n = 22). Irradiation was carried buccally and palatally with respect to the maxillary ridge (2 points). The energy per point was 4 J (8 J/cm2), total dose was 56 J. Results: Patients did not report significant differences in terms of pain experiences comparing the L and C groups (p = 0.499). At 30 days post-treatment, higher secondary stability of implants was observed in the laser group (Periotest Test Value, PTV 6.32 ± 3.62), in contrast to the controls (PTV 11.34 ± 5.76) (p = 0.004). At 60 days post-treatment, significantly higher stability was recorded in the laser group (PTV 6.55 ± 4.66) compared with the controls, PTV (10.95 ± 4.77) (p = 0.009). Conclusions: Application of the 808 nm diode laser increased secondary micro-implant stability.
Molten Salt Synthesis of High-Performance, Nanostructured La0.6Sr0.4FeO3−δ Oxygen Electrode of a Reversible Solid Oxide Cell
Authors: Zuo Xiaodong , Chen Zhiyi , Guan Chengzhi , Chen Kongfa , Song Sanzhao , Xiao Guoping , Pang Yuepeng , Wang Jian-Qiang
Published: May 2020

Nanoscale perovskite oxides with enhanced electrocatalytic activities have been widely used as oxygen electrodes of reversible solid oxide cells (RSOC). Here, La0.6Sr0.4FeO3−δ (LSF) nanoscale powder is synthesized via a novel molten salt method using chlorides as the reaction medium and fired at 850 °C for 5 h after removing the additives. A direct assembly method is employed to fabricate the LSF electrode without a pre-sintering process at high temperature. The microstructure characterization ensures that the direct assembly process will not damage the porosity of LSF. When operating as a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC), the LSF cell exhibits a peak power density of 1.36, 1.07 and 0.7 W/cm2 at 800, 750 and 700 °C, respectively, while in solid oxide electrolysis cell (SOEC) mode, the electrolysis current density reaches 1.52, 0.98 and 0.53 A/cm2 under an electrolysis voltage of 1.3 V, respectively. Thus, it indicates that the molten salt routine is a promising method for the synthesis of highly active perovskite LSF powders for directly assembled oxygen electrodes of RSOC.
Bulk Density Homogenization and Impact Initiation Characteristics of Porous PTFE/Al/W Reactive Materials
Authors: Geng Baoqun , Wang Haifu , Yu Qingbo , Zheng Yuanfeng , Ge Chao
Published: May 2020

In this research, the bulk density homogenization and impact initiation characteristics of porous PTFE/Al/W reactive materials were investigated. Cold isostatic pressed (CIPed) and hot temperature sintered (HTSed) PTFE/Al/W reactive materials of five different theoretical maximum densities were fabricated via the mixing/pressing/sintering process. Mesoscale structure characteristics of the materials fabricated under different molding pressures were compared while the effect of molding pressures on material bulk densities was analyzed as well. By using the drop weight testing system, effects of the theoretical maximum densities (TMDs), drop heights and molding pressures on the impact initiation characteristics were studied. Quantitatively, characteristic drop heights (H50) for different types of materials were obtained. The two most significant findings of this research are the density homogenization zone and the sensitivity transition zone, which would provide meaningful guides for further design and fabrication of reactive materials.
Synthesis of Polypyrrole/Reduced Graphene Oxide Hybrids via Hydrothermal Treatment for Energy Storage Applications
Authors: Moyseowicz Adam , Pająk Krzysztof , Gajewska Katarzyna , Gryglewicz Grażyna
Published: May 2020

Herein, we propose hydrothermal treatment as a facile and environmentally friendly approach for the synthesis of polypyrrole/reduced graphene oxide hybrids. A series of self-assembled hybrid materials with different component mass ratios of conductive polymer to graphene oxide was prepared. The morphology, porous structure, chemical composition and electrochemical performance of the synthesized hybrids as electrode materials for supercapacitors were investigated. Nitrogen sorption analysis at 77 K revealed significant changes in the textural development of the synthesized materials, presenting specific surface areas ranging from 25 to 199 m2 g−1. The combination of the pseudocapacitive polypyrrole and robust graphene material resulted in hybrids with excellent electrochemical properties, which achieved specific capacitances as high as 198 F g−1 at a current density of 20 A g−1 and retained up to 92% of their initial capacitance after 3000 charge–discharge cycles. We found that a suitable morphology and chemical composition are key factors that determine the electrochemical properties of polypyrrole/reduced graphene oxide hybrid materials.
3D Bioprinting for Vascularized Tissue-Engineered Bone Fabrication
Authors: Xing Fei , Xiang Zhou , Rommens Pol Maria , Ritz Ulrike
Published: May 2020

Vascularization in bone tissues is essential for the distribution of nutrients and oxygen, as well as the removal of waste products. Fabrication of tissue-engineered bone constructs with functional vascular networks has great potential for biomimicking nature bone tissue in vitro and enhancing bone regeneration in vivo. Over the past decades, many approaches have been applied to fabricate biomimetic vascularized tissue-engineered bone constructs. However, traditional tissue-engineered methods based on seeding cells into scaffolds are unable to control the spatial architecture and the encapsulated cell distribution precisely, which posed a significant challenge in constructing complex vascularized bone tissues with precise biomimetic properties. In recent years, as a pioneering technology, three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting technology has been applied to fabricate multiscale, biomimetic, multi-cellular tissues with a highly complex tissue microenvironment through layer-by-layer printing. This review discussed the application of 3D bioprinting technology in the vascularized tissue-engineered bone fabrication, where the current status and unique challenges were critically reviewed. Furthermore, the mechanisms of vascular formation, the process of 3D bioprinting, and the current development of bioink properties were also discussed.
Elasto-Viscoplastic Material Model of a Directly-Cast Low-Carbon Steel at High Temperatures
Authors: Krobath Martin , Krobath Roman , Bernhard Christian , Ecker Werner
Published: May 2020

A model-based process control of material production processes demands realistic material models describing the local evolution of the thermal and mechanical state variables, i.e., temperature, stress, strain, or plastic strain, for the relevant microstructure state. In the present work, a material model for the specific microstructure in a continuously cast strand shell, viable for reproducing cyclic viscoplastic effects, was developed for a 0.17 wt.% C steel. Experimental data was generated using directly-cast samples and a well-controllable testing facility to apply representative loading conditions. Displacement- and force-controlled experiments in the temperature range of 700–1100 °C were conducted, with a special focus on the relevant strain rates documented for the straightening operation. A temperature-dependent constitutive material model combining elastic, plastic, and viscoplastic effects was parameterized to fit the whole set of experimentally-determined material response curves. In order to account for the cyclic plastic material response, a combination of isotropic and kinematic hardening was considered. The material model sets a new standard for the material description of a continuously cast strand shell, and it can be applied in elaborate continuous casting simulations.
Evaluation of Different Autologous Platelet Concentrate Biomaterials: Morphological and Biological Comparisons and Considerations
Authors: Marchetti Enrico , Mancini Leonardo , Bernardi Sara , Bianchi Serena , Cristiano Loredana , Torge Diana , Marzo Giuseppe , Macchiarelli Guido
Published: May 2020

The field of regeneration interventions in oral and maxillofacial surgeries still represents a challenge for researchers and clinicians. Understanding the biological and morphological behaviour of human cells towards the materials used for the regeneration surgeries is key to successfully choosing and applying the appropriate biomaterials for specific clinical situations. The aim of the study was the biological and morphological evaluation of autologous platelet concentrate materials obtained with different protocols, in culture with human periodontal ligament fibroblasts (HPLF). The study design included the evaluation of Leukocyte-Platelet-Rich-Fibrin (L-PRF), Concentrated Growth Factors (CGF) and autologous platelet gel (APG) in contact with the HPLF cell line after 24 h, 72 h and 7 days of in vitro culture. Cell proliferation and, therefore, viability were evaluated with XTT assays. The morphological response of the cells was evaluated by light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and confocal microscopy. The XTT assay showed an interesting response in the growth curve. In particular, the material that gave the best results was the CGF. The morphological data supported the XTT assay, showing the best results for the CGF and L-PRF. In conclusion, all the platelet-derived materials stimulated the onset of the growth of the HPLF cell line, making them promising options for periodontal regeneration interventions.
Isolation and Characterisation of Cellulose Nanofibre and Lignin from Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunches
Authors: Gea Saharman , Siregar Amir Hamzah , Zaidar Emma , Harahap Mahyuni , Indrawan Denny Pratama , Perangin-Angin Yurika Almanda
Published: May 2020

A study on isolation and characterisation of cellulose nanofibre (CNF) and lignin was conducted to expand the application of CNF and lignin from oil palm biomass. CNF was extracted by steam explosion and the by-product was precipitated to obtain lignin by using the soda-pulping method. The concentrations of NaOH used for CNF by-product precipitation were 2%, 4%, and 6%. The morphology of CNF and lignin was characterised using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The nanofibre of CNF with dimension between 50 nm and 100 nm was investigated using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The functional group was observed using Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, showing that CNF had the structure of cellulose-I. In addition, the chemical structures of isolated and commercial lignin were analysed using 1H-NMR spectrometry. CNF had a 72% crystallinity index characterised by X-ray diffraction (XRD), while lignin showed an amorphous form. The characterisation of isolated lignin was compared with commercial lignin. The two lignins had similar particle size distribution from 1 to 100 μm. From UV-visible analysis, the lignin had aromatic rings/non-conjugated phenolic groups. The morphology of isolated lignin was rough and flaky. Commercial lignin was in powder form with near-spherical morphology. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) of CNF showed 30% of residue at 600 °C. The results showed a simple method to isolate CNF and lignin from oil palm empty fruit bunches.
Friction Stir Welding and Friction Spot Stir Welding Processes of Polymers—State of the Art
Authors: Lambiase Francesco , Derazkola Hamed Aghajani , Simchi Abdolreza
Published: May 2020

In the last decade, the friction stir welding of polymers has been increasingly investigated by the means of more and more sophisticated approaches. Since the early studies, which were aimed at proving the feasibility of the process for polymers and identifying suitable processing windows, great improvements have been achieved. This owes to the increasing care of academic researchers and industrial demands. These improvements have their roots in the promising results from pioneer studies; however, they are also the fruits of the adoption of more comprehensive approaches and the multidisciplinary analyses of results. The introduction of instrumented machines has enabled the online measurement of processing loads and temperature, and critical understanding of the principal aspects affecting the material flow and welds quality. Such improvements are also clearly demonstrated by the increase of the strength of recent joints (up to 99% of joining efficiency) as compared to those reached in early researches (almost 47%). This article provides a comprehensive review of the recent progresses on the process fundamentals, quality assessment and the influence of process parameters on the mechanical behavior. In addition, emphasis is given to new developments and future perspectives.
Cellulose Nanocrystal and Water-Soluble Cellulose Derivative Based Electromechanical Bending Actuators
Authors: Correia Daniela M. , Lizundia Erlantz , Meira Rafaela M. , Rincón-Iglesias Mikel , Lanceros-Méndez Senentxu
Published: May 2020

This study reports a versatile method for the development of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) and water-soluble cellulose derivatives (methyl cellulose (MC), hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC), and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (NaCMC)) films comprising the ionic liquid (IL) 2-hydroxy-ethyl-trimethylammonium dihydrogen phosphate ([Ch][DHP]) for actuator fabrication. The influence of the IL content on the morphology and physico–chemical properties of free-standing composite films was evaluated. Independently of the cellulose derivative, the ductility of the films increases upon [Ch][DHP] incorporation to yield elongation at break values of nearly 15%. An increase on the electrical conductivity as a result of the IL incorporation into cellulosic matrices is found. The actuator performance of composites was evaluated, NaCMC/[Ch][DHP] showing the maximum displacement along the x-axis of 9 mm at 8 Vpp. Based on the obtained high electromechanical actuation performance, together with their simple processability and renewable nature, the materials fabricated here represent a step forward in the development of sustainable soft actuators of high practical relevance.
Tunable Crystalline Phases in UV-Curable PEG-Grafted Ladder-Structured Silsesquioxane/Polyimide Composites
Authors: Kim Ryung Il , Shin Ju Ho , Lee Jong Suk , Lee Jung-Hyun , Lee Albert S. , Hwang Seung Sang
Published: May 2020

A series of UV-curable hybrid composite blends containing a carboxylic acid functionalized polyimidewith varying amounts of high molecular weight (~1 K) PEG-grafted ladder-structured polysilsesquioxanes copolymerized with methacryl groups were fabricated and their structural, thermal, mechanical, and surface properties characterized. At a composite weight ratio of polyimide above 50 wt.%, a stark shift from amorphous to crystalline polyethylene glycol (PEG) phases were observed, accompanied by a drastic increase in both surface moduli and brittleness index. Moreover, fabricated composites were shown to have a wide range water contact angle, 9.8°–73.8°, attesting to the tunable surface properties of these amphiphilic hybrid polymer composites. The enhanced mechanical properties, combined with the utility of tunable surface hydrophilicity allows for the possible use of these hybrid polymer composites to be utilized as photosensitive polyimide negative photoresists for a myriad of semiconductor patterning processes.
Cell Proliferation to Evaluate Preliminarily the Presence of Enduring Self-Regenerative Antioxidant Activity in Cerium Doped Bioactive Glasses
Authors: Anesi Alexandre , Malavasi Gianluca , Chiarini Luigi , Salvatori Roberta , Lusvardi Gigliola
Published: May 2020

(1) Background: a cell evaluation focused to verify the self-regenerative antioxidant activity is performed on cerium doped bioactive glasses. (2) Methods: the glasses based on 45S5 Bioglass®, are doped with 1.2 mol%, 3.6 mol% and 5.3 mol% of CeO2 and possess a polyhedral shape (~500 µm2). Glasses with this composition inhibit oxidative stress by mimicking catalase enzyme (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities; moreover, our previous cytocompatibility tests (neutral red (NR), 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) and Bromo-2-deoxyUridine (BrdU)) reveal that the presence of cerium promotes the absorption and vitality of the cells. The same cytocompatibility tests were performed and repeated, in two different periods (named first and second use), separated from each other by four months. (3) Results: in the first and second use, NR tests indicate that the presence of cerium promotes once again cell uptake and viability, especially after 72 h. A decrease in cell proliferation it is observed after MTT and BrdU tests only in the second use. These findings are supported by statistically significant results (4) Conclusions: these glasses show enhanced proliferation, both in the short and in the long term, and for the first time such large dimensions are studied for this kind of study. A future prospective is the implantation of these bioactive glasses as bone substitute in animal models.
An Institutional Trust Indicator Based on Fuzzy Logic and Ideal Solutions
Authors: Martín Juan Carlos , Román Concepción , Viñán Christian
Published: May 2020

The analysis of trust in the governments and the authorities has been a source of study in recent years, especially by the impact it has on facilitating economic growth and stability in developing countries. This paper analyses the institutional trust in Ecuador using data from an adapted survey of the European Social Survey. A synthetic indicator of institutional trust of Ecuadorian citizens is obtained by applying a fuzzy hybrid multi-criteria method. The analysis is based on six different dimensions, namely: (1) The Local Government (City Hall); (2) The Judicial System; (3) The Politicians; (4) Political Parties; (5) The National Parliament; and (6) the United Nations. The results obtained for the country, the nine provincial conglomerates and the gender segments show that institutional trust is not homogeneous among the provincial zones and that males trust more on institutions than females. The paper offers interesting insights to practitioners, researchers, academics, political scientists, and policymakers interested in Latin America. Suggestions for future research in the area, having in mind the existing data availability limitations, are provided.
Mapping Metabolite and ICD-10 Associations
Authors: Taalberg Egon , Kilk Kalle
Published: May 2020

The search for novel metabolic biomarkers is intense but has had limited practical outcomes for medicine. Part of the problem is that we lack knowledge of how different comorbidities influence biomarkers’ performance. In this study, 49 metabolites were measured by targeted LC/MS protocols in the serum of 1011 volunteers. Their performance as potential biomarkers was evaluated by the area under the curve of receiver operator characteristics (AUC-ROC) for 105 diagnosis codes or code groups from the 10th revision of the international classification of diseases (ICD-10). Additionally, the interferences between diagnosis codes were investigated. The highest AUC-ROC values for individual metabolites and ICD-10 code combinations reached a moderate (0.7) range. Most metabolites that were found to be potential markers remained so independently of the control group composition or comorbidities. The precise value of the AUC-ROC, however, could vary depending on the comorbidities. Moreover, networks of metabolite and disease associations were built in order to map diseases, which may interfere with metabolic biomarker research on other diseases.
Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of 1,2,3-Triazole-linked triazino[5,6-b]indole-benzene sulfonamide Conjugates as Potent Carbonic Anhydrase I, II, IX, and XIII Inhibitors
Authors: Chinchilli Krishna Kartheek , Angeli Andrea , Thacker Pavitra S. , Korra Laxman Naik , Biswas Rashmita , Arifuddin Mohammed , Supuran Claudiu T.
Published: May 2020

A series of 1,2,3-triazole-linked triazino[5,6-b]indole-benzene sulfonamide hybrids (6a–6o) was synthesized and evaluated for carbonic anhydrase (CA, EC 4.2.1.1) inhibitory activity against the human (h) isoforms hCA I, II, XIII (cytosolic isoforms), and hCA IX (transmembrane tumor-associated isoform). The results revealed that the compounds 6a–6o exhibited Ki values in the low to medium nanomolar range against hCA II and hCA IX (Kis ranging from 7.7 nM to 41.3 nM) and higher Ki values against hCA I and hCA XIII. Compound 6i showed potent inhibition of hCA II (Ki = 7.7nM), being more effective compared to the standard inhibitor acetazolamide (AAZ) (Ki = 12.1 nM). Compounds 6b and 6d showed moderate activity against hCA XIII (Ki = 69.8 and 65.8 nM). Hence, compound 6i could be consider as potential lead candidate for the design of potent and selective hCA II inhibitors.
Driving Waveform Design of Electrophoretic Display Based on Optimized Particle Activation for a Rapid Response Speed
Authors: He Wenyao , Yi Zichuan , Shen Shitao , Huang Zhenyu , Liu Linwei , Zhang Taiyuan , Li Wei , Wang Li , Shui Lingling , Zhang Chongfu , Zhou Guofu
Published: May 2020

Electrophoretic displays (EPDs) have excellent paper-like display features, but their response speed is as long as hundreds of milliseconds. This is particularly important when optimizing the driving waveform for improving the response speed. Hence, a driving waveform design based on the optimization of particle activation was proposed by analyzing the electrophoresis performance of particles in EPD pixels. The particle activation in the driving waveform was divided into two phases: the improving particle activity phase and the uniform reference grayscale phase. First, according to the motion characteristics of particles in improving the particle activity phase, the real-time EPD brightness value can be obtained by an optical testing device. Secondly, the derivative of the EPD brightness curve was used to obtain the inflection point, and the inflection point was used as the duration of improving particle activity phase. Thirdly, the brightness curve of the uniform reference grayscale phase was studied to set the driving duration for obtaining a white reference grayscale. Finally, a set of four-level grayscale driving waveform was designed and validated in a commercial E-ink EPD. The experimental results showed that the proposed driving waveform can cause a reduction by 180 ms in improving particle activity phase and 120 ms in uniform reference grayscale phase effectively, and a unified reference grayscale can be achieved in uniform reference grayscale phase at the same time.
An Endolysin LysSE24 by Bacteriophage LPSE1 Confers Specific Bactericidal Activity against Multidrug-Resistant Salmonella Strains
Authors: Ding Yifeng , Zhang Yu , Huang Chenxi , Wang Jia , Wang Xiaohong
Published: May 2020

Salmonella is responsible for a wide range of infections and is a constant threat to public health, particularly in light of emerging antibiotic resistance. The use of bacteriophages and phage endolysins as specific antibacterial agents is a promising strategy to control this bacterial infection. Endolysins are important proteins during the process of bacteria lysis by bacteriophages. In this study, we identify a novel endolysin, named LysSE24. LysSE24 was predicted to possess N-acetylmuramidases activity, with a molecular mass of ca. 17.4 kDa and pI 9.44. His-tagged LysSE24 was heterologously expressed and purified by Ni-NTA chromatography. LysSE24 exhibited optimal bactericidal activity against Salmonella Enteritidis ATCC 13076 at a concentration of 0.1 μM. Salmonella population (measured by OD600 nm) decreased significantly (p < 0.05) after 10 min of incubation in combination with the outer membrane permeabilizer in vitro. It also showed antibacterial activity against a panel of 23 tested multidrug-resistant Salmonella strains. Bactericidal activity of LysSE24 was evaluated in terms of pH, temperature, and ionic strength. It was very stable with different pH (4.0 to 10.0) at different temperatures (20 to 60 °C). Both K+ and Na+ at concentrations between 0.1 to 100 mM showed no effects on its bactericidal activity, while a high concentration of Ca2+ and Mg2+ showed efficacy. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that exposure to 0.1 μM LysSE24 for up to 5 min caused a remarkable modification of the cell shape of Salmonella Enteritidis ATCC 13076. These results indicate that recombinant LysSE24 represents a promising antimicrobial activity against Salmonella, especially several multidrug-resistant Salmonella strains. Further studies can be developed to improve its bactericidal activity without the need for pretreatment with outer membrane-destabilizing agents by synthetic biology methods.
Biotechnological Approach Based on Selected Saccharomyces cerevisiae Starters for Reducing the Use of Sulfur Dioxide in Wine
Authors: Capece Angela , Pietrafesa Rocchina , Siesto Gabriella , Romano Patrizia
Published: May 2020

Sulfites are considered the main additives in winemaking for their antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-oxidasic activities. The current concern about the potential negative effects of sulfur dioxide (SO2) on consumer health has focused the interest on replacing or reducing SO2 use. Our work aims to develop a strategy based on the use of selected starter culture, able to perform wine fermentation without SO2 addition. Four selected Saccharomyces cerevisiae indigenous strains were tested as mixed starter cultures in laboratory scale fermentations. The starter culture, characterized by a similar percentage of dominance of both strains composing the mixed starter and able to produce a wine characterized by the best combination of chemical and aromatic characteristics, was chosen. This mixed culture was tested as a starter at pilot scale with and without SO2 addition, by using a higher inoculum level in the vinification without SO2. The selected starter confirmed higher dominance ability in vinification without SO2 addition than in SO2-added fermentation, demonstrating that sulfite addition is not a guarantee to reach an absolute dominance of starter culture on indigenous microflora. The proposed biotechnological tool allowed to produce good quality wines possessing also “functional properties”, as NO-SO2 added wines were characterized by high polyphenol content and antioxidant activity.
Study on the Effects of a π Electron Conjugated Structure in Binuclear Metallophthalocyanines Graphene-Based Oxygen Reduction Reaction Catalysts
Authors: Zhang Gai , Liu Bulei , Zhang Yufan , Li Tiantian , Chen Weixing , Zhao Weifeng
Published: May 2020

The high overpotentials for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) create an extremely negative impact on the energy efficiency of the air-based battery systems. To overcome this problem, binuclear ball-type metallophthalocyanines containing methoxy substituents (M2Pc2(EP)4, M = Fe(II), Co(II) and Zn(II)) were wrapped with polystyrene sodium sulfonate (PSS) modified graphene oxide (GO), using a facilely “solvothermal π-π assembly” method to prepare M2Pc2(EP)4/PSS-Gr composites. Compared with the commercial Pt/C catalysts, the M2Pc2(EP)4/PSS-Gr composites enhanced the catalytic activity of oxygen reduction reaction. The π electron conjugated structure of the MN4-type phthalocyanine macrocyclic system strongly influenced the one-step four-electron electrocatalytic process of the M2Pc2(EP)4/PSS-Gr composites. Moreover, the π-π interactions between the M2Pc2(EP)4 and PSS-Gr dramatically enhanced the π electron density in the conjugated structure and oxygen could be reduced more easily. The electrocatalytic activity test was displayed in the order of Fe2Pc2(FP)4/PSS-Gr > Co2Pc2(EP)4/PSS-Gr > Zn2Pc2(EP)4/PSS-Gr. The results indicated that the catalytic performance of M2Pc2Rn could be enhanced by the modification of π electron conjugated structure of M2Pc2(EP)4 and carbon materials.
Effect of Impulsivity Traits on Food Choice within a Nudging Intervention
Authors: Marques Irene C. F. , Ting Megan , Cedillo-Martínez Daniela , Pérez-Cueto Federico J.A.
Published: May 2020

Food choices are often driven by impulsive tendencies rather than rational consideration. Some individuals may find it more difficult resisting impulses related to unhealthy food choices, and low self-control and high impulsivity have been suggested to be linked to these behaviors. Recent shifts have been made towards developing strategies that target automatic processes of decision-making and focus on adjusting the environment, referred to as nudging interventions. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of impulsivity traits on food choices within a nudging intervention (increased perceived variety). A total of 83 adults participated in an experimental study consisting of a self-service intelligent buffet. Impulsivity traits were measured using the UPPS-P impulsivity scale. General linear models were fitted to evaluate the effect of the five impulsivity traits on the difference of salad consumption (g) between the control and intervention situations. Results showed that impulsivity does not affect food choices in this nudging situation, suggesting that nudging works independently of the participant’s impulsivity score. Results also showed a significantly higher consumption of salad in the nudging versus the control setting (17.6 g, p < 0.05), suggesting that nudging interventions can be effective in significantly increasing total vegetable consumption across the whole impulsivity scale.
Hyperosmolarity and Increased Serum Sodium Concentration Are Risks for Developing Hypertension Regardless of Salt Intake: A Five-Year Cohort Study in Japan
Authors: Kuwabara Masanari , Kanbay Mehmet , Niwa Koichiro , Ae Ryusuke , Andres-Hernando Ana , Roncal-Jimenez Carlos , Garcia Gabriela , Sánchez-Lozada Laura , Rodriguez-Iturbe Bernardo , Hisatome Ichiro , Lanaspa Miguel , Johnson Richard
Published: May 2020

The potential contribution of serum osmolarity in the modulation of blood pressure has not been evaluated. This study was done to examine the relationship between hyperosmolarity and hypertension in a five-year longitudinal design. We enrolled 10,157 normotensive subjects without diabetes who developed hypertension subsequently as determined by annual medical examination in St. Luke’s International Hospital, Tokyo, between 2004 and 2009. High salt intake was defined as >12 g/day by a self-answered questionnaire and hyperosmolarity was defined as >293 mOsm/L serum osmolarity, calculated using serum sodium, fasting blood glucose, and blood urea nitrogen. Statistical analyses included adjustments for age, gender, body mass index, smoking, drinking alcohol, dyslipidemia, hyperuricemia, and chronic kidney disease. In the patients with normal osmolarity, the group with high salt intake had a higher cumulative incidence of hypertension than the group with normal salt intake (8.4% versus 6.7%, p = 0.023). In contrast, in the patients with high osmolarity, the cumulative incidence of hypertension was similar in the group with high salt intake and in the group with normal salt intake (13.1% versus 12.9%, p = 0.84). The patients with hyperosmolarity had a higher incidence of hypertension over five years compared to that of the normal osmolarity group (p < 0.001). After multiple adjustments, elevated osmolarity was an independent risk for developing hypertension (OR (odds ratio), 1.025; 95% CI (confidence interval), 1.006–1.044), regardless of the amount of salt intake. When analyzed in relation to each element of calculated osmolarity, serum sodium and fasting blood glucose were independent risks for developing hypertension. Our results suggest that hyperosmolarity is a risk for developing hypertension regardless of salt intake.