bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Overexpression of UGT74E2, an Arabidopsis IBA Glycosyltransferase, Enhances Seed Germination and Modulates Stress Tolerance via ABA Signaling in Rice
Authors: Wang Ting , Li Pan , Mu Tianjiao , Dong Guangrui , Zheng Chengchao , Jin Shanghui , Chen Tingting , Hou Bingkai , Li Yanjie
Published: September 2020

UDP-glycosyltransferases (UGTs) play key roles in modulating plant development and responses to environmental challenges. Previous research reported that the Arabidopsis UDP-glucosyltransferase 74E2 (AtUGT74E2), which transfers glucose to indole-3-butyric acid (IBA), is involved in regulating plant architecture and stress responses. Here, we show novel and distinct roles of UGT74E2 in rice. We found that overexpression of AtUGT74E2 in rice could enhance seed germination. This effect was also observed in the presence of IBA and abscisic acid (ABA), as well as salt and drought stresses. Further investigation indicated that the overexpression lines had lower levels of free IBA and ABA compared to wild-type plants. Auxin signaling pathway gene expression such as for OsARF and OsGH3 genes, as well as ABA signaling pathway genes OsABI3 and OsABI5, was substantially downregulated in germinating seeds of UGT74E2 overexpression lines. Consistently, due to reduced IBA and ABA levels, the established seedlings were less tolerant to drought and salt stresses. The regulation of rice seed germination and stress tolerance could be attributed to IBA and ABA level alterations, as well as modulation of the auxin/ABA signaling pathways by UGT74E2. The distinct roles of UGT74E2 in rice implied that complex and different molecular regulation networks exist between Arabidopsis and rice.
Biological Functions of Prokaryotic Amyloids in Interspecies Interactions: Facts and Assumptions
Authors: Kosolapova Anastasiia O. , Antonets Kirill S. , Belousov Mikhail V. , Nizhnikov Anton A.
Published: September 2020

Amyloids are fibrillar protein aggregates with an ordered spatial structure called “cross-β”. While some amyloids are associated with development of approximately 50 incurable diseases of humans and animals, the others perform various crucial physiological functions. The greatest diversity of amyloids functions is identified within prokaryotic species where they, being the components of the biofilm matrix, function as adhesins, regulate the activity of toxins and virulence factors, and compose extracellular protein layers. Amyloid state is widely used by different pathogenic bacterial species in their interactions with eukaryotic organisms. These amyloids, being functional for bacteria that produce them, are associated with various bacterial infections in humans and animals. Thus, the repertoire of the disease-associated amyloids includes not only dozens of pathological amyloids of mammalian origin but also numerous microbial amyloids. Although the ability of symbiotic microorganisms to produce amyloids has recently been demonstrated, functional roles of prokaryotic amyloids in host–symbiont interactions as well as in the interspecies interactions within the prokaryotic communities remain poorly studied. Here, we summarize the current findings in the field of prokaryotic amyloids, classify different interspecies interactions where these amyloids are involved, and hypothesize about their real occurrence in nature as well as their roles in pathogenesis and symbiosis.
Successive Collaborative SLAM: Towards Reliable Inertial Pedestrian Navigation
Authors: Kaiser Susanna
Published: September 2020

In emergency scenarios, such as a terrorist attack or a building on fire, it is desirable to track first responders in order to coordinate the operation. Pedestrian tracking methods solely based on inertial measurement units in indoor environments are candidates for such operations since they do not depend on pre-installed infrastructure. A very powerful indoor navigation method represents collaborative simultaneous localization and mapping (collaborative SLAM), where the learned maps of several users can be combined in order to help indoor positioning. In this paper, maps are estimated from several similar trajectories (multiple users) or one user wearing multiple sensors. They are combined successively in order to obtain a precise map and positioning. For reducing complexity, the trajectories are divided into small portions (sliding window technique) and are partly successively applied to the collaborative SLAM algorithm. We investigate successive combinations of the map portions of several pedestrians and analyze the resulting position accuracy. The results depend on several parameters, e.g., the number of users or sensors, the sensor drifts, the amount of revisited area, the number of iterations, and the windows size. We provide a discussion about the choice of the parameters. The results show that the mean position error can be reduced to ≈0.5 m when applying partly successive collaborative SLAM.
Technological Aspects of Blockchain Application for Vehicle-to-Network
Authors: Elagin Vasiliy , Spirkina Anastasia , Buinevich Mikhail , Vladyko Andrei
Published: September 2020

Over the past decade, wireless communication technologies have developed significantly for intelligent applications in road transport. This paper provides an overview of telecommunications-based intelligent transport systems with a focus on ensuring system safety and resilience. In vehicle-to-everything, these problems are extremely acute due to the specifics of the operation of transport networks, which requires the use of special protection mechanisms. In this regard, it was decided to use blockchain as a system platform to support the needs of transport systems for secure information exchange. This paper describes the technological aspects of implementing blockchain technology in vehicle-to-network; the features of such technology are presented, as well as the features of their interaction. The authors considered various network characteristics and identified the parameters that have a primary impact on the operation of the vehicle-to-network (V2N) network when implementing the blockchain. In the paper, an experiment was carried out that showed the numerical characteristics for the allocation of resources on devices involved in organizing V2N communication and conclusions were drawn from the results of the study.
Deep Learning and Parallel Processing Spatio-Temporal Clustering Unveil New Ionian Distinct Seismic Zone
Authors: Konstantaras Antonios
Published: September 2020

This research work employs theoretical and empirical expert knowledge in constructing an agglomerative parallel processing algorithm that performs spatio-temporal clustering upon seismic data. This is made possible by exploiting the spatial and temporal sphere of influence of the main earthquakes solely, clustering seismic events into a number of fuzzy bordered, interactive and yet potentially distinct seismic zones. To evaluate whether the unveiled clusters indeed depict a distinct seismic zone, deep learning neural networks are deployed to map seismic energy release rates with time intervals between consecutive large earthquakes. Such a correlation fails should there be influence by neighboring seismic areas, hence casting the seismic region as non-distinct, or if the extent of the seismic zone has not been captured fully. For the deep learning neural network to depict such a correlation requires a steady seismic energy input flow. To address that the western area of the Hellenic seismic arc has been selected as a test case due to the nearly constant motion of the African plate that sinks beneath the Eurasian plate at a steady yearly rate. This causes a steady flow of strain energy stored in tectonic underground faults, i.e., the seismic energy storage elements; a partial release of which, when propagated all the way to the surface, casts as an earthquake. The results are complementary two-fold with the correlation between the energy release rates and the time interval amongst large earthquakes supporting the presence of a potential distinct seismic zone in the Ionian Sea and vice versa.
SOS Teeth: First Priority Teeth with Advanced Caries and Its Associations with Metabolic Syndrome among a National Representative Sample of Young and Middle-Aged Adults
Authors: Almoznino Galit , Kessler Baruch Ortal , Kedem Ron , Protter Noam E. , Shay Boaz , Yavnai Nirit , Zur Dorit , Mijiritsky Eitan , Abramovitz Itzhak
Published: September 2020

“SOS teeth” are defined as the first priority teeth for treatment, that have distinct cavitation reaching the pulp chamber or only root fragments are present. These are teeth with severe morbidity, that may require pulp capping, root canal treatment, or extraction, and therefore should be treated first. The study aims to explore whether or not a metabolic syndrome (MetS) is associated with SOS teeth. To that end, we performed across-sectional records-based study of a nationally representative sample of 132,529 military personnel aged 18–50 years, who attended the military dental clinics for one year. The mean number of SOS had no statistically significant association with: smoking (p = 0.858), alcohol consumption (p = 0.878), hypertension (p = 0.429), diabetes mellitus (p = 0.866), impaired glucose tolerance (p = 0.909), hyperlipidemia (p = 0.246), ischemic heart disease (p = 0.694), S/P myocardial infarction (p = 0.957), obstructive sleep apnea (p = 0.395), fatty liver (p = 0.074), S/P stroke (p = 0.589), and S/P transient ischemic attack (p = 0.095) and with parental history of: diabetes (p = 0.396)], cardiovascular disease (p = 0.360), stroke (p = 0.368), and sudden death (p = 0.063) as well as with any of the medical auxiliary examinations (p > 0.05). Cariogenic diet was positively associated with SOS teeth (p < 0.001). We conclude that SOS teeth had no statistically significant association with MetS components or with conditions that are consequences or associated with MetS. The only statistically significant parameter was a cariogenic diet, a well-known risk factor for caries and MetS.
Incidence and Risk Factors of Venous Thromboembolic Events in Patients with ANCA-Glomerulonephritis: A Cohort Study from the Maine-Anjou Registry
Authors: Henry Nicolas , Brilland Benoit , Wacrenier Samuel , Djema Assia , Garnier Anne Sophie , Gansey Renaud , Coindre Jean-Philippe , Besson Virginie , Duveau Agnès , Subra Jean-François , Cousin Maud , Piccoli Giorgina Barbara , Augusto Jean-François
Published: September 2020

(1) Introduction: The incidence of venous thromboembolisms (VTE) has not been extensively analyzed in patients with antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-glomerulonephritis (ANCA-GN). Thus, the aim of the present study was to assess the frequency and the risk factors of VTE in patients with ANCA-GN. (2) Methods: Patients from the Maine-Anjou ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV) registry with a biopsy showing pauci-immune glomerulonephritis were included. VTE events, site, and interval from AAV diagnosis were analyzed. (3) Results: 133 patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria of the study and were analyzed. VTE episodes were diagnosed in 23/133 (17.3%) patients at a median delay of 3 months from ANCA-GN diagnosis. Patients with VTE had lower serum albumin (p = 0.040), were less frequently on statin therapy (p = 0.009) and had less frequently proteinase-3 (PR3)-ANCAs (p = 0.078). Univariate analysis identified higher age (p = 0.022), lower serum albumin (p = 0.030), lack of statin therapy (p = 0.009), and rituximab treatment (p = 0.018) as significant risk factors of VTE. In multivariate analysis, only lack of statin therapy (HR 4.873; p = 0.042) was significantly associated with VTE. (4) Conclusion: Patients with ANCA-GN are at high risk of VTE, especially within the first months following AAV diagnosis. Our results suggest that statin therapy is associated with a lower risk of VTE in ANCA-GN patients.
Managed Care after Acute Myocardial Infarction (MC-AMI) Reduces Total Mortality in 12-Month Follow-Up—Results from a Poland’s National Health Fund Program of Comprehensive Post-MI Care—A Population-Wide Analysis
Authors: Wita Krystian , Kułach Andrzej , Sikora Jacek , Fluder Joanna , Nowalany-Kozielska Ewa , Milewski Krzysztof , Pączek Piotr , Sobocik Henryk , Olender Jacek , Szela Lucjan , Kalarus Zbigniew , Buszman Pawel , Jankowski Piotr , Gąsior Mariusz
Published: September 2020

Introduction: Advances in the acute treatment of myocardial infarction (AMI) substantially reduced in-hospital mortality, but the post-discharge prognosis is still unacceptable. The Managed Care in Acute Myocardial Infarction (MC-AMI) is a program of Poland’s National Health Fund that aims at comprehensive post-AMI care to improve long-term prognosis. The aim of the study was to assess the effect of MC-AMI on all-cause mortality in one-year follow-up. Methods: MC-AMI includes acute MI treatment, complex revascularization, cardiac rehabilitation (CR), scheduled one-year outpatient follow-up, and prevention of sudden cardiac death. In this retrospective observational study performed in a province of Silesia, Poland, we analyzed 3893 MC-AMI participants, and compared them to 6946 patients in the control group. After propensity score matching, we compared two groups of 3551 subjects each. To assess the effect of MC-AMI and other variables on mortality, we preformed a Cox regression. Results: MC-AMI was related with mortality reduction by 38% in a 12-month observation period and the effect persisted even after. Multivariable Cox regression analysis revealed MC-AMI participation to be inversely associated with 1-year mortality (HR 0.52, 95%CI 0.42–0.65, p < 0.001). Besides that, older age (HR 1.47/10 y), ST-elevation AMI (HR 1.41), heart failure (HR 2.08), diabetes (HR 1.52), and dialysis (HR 2.38) were significantly associated with the primary endpoint. Among MC-AMI components, cardiac rehabilitation (HR 0.34) and strict outpatient care (HR 0.42) are the crucial factors affecting mortality reduction. Conclusions: Participation in MC-AMI reduced 1-year mortality by 38% and the effect persisted after the program had been completed.
Comparison of the Meibomian Gland Openings by Optical Coherence Tomography in Obstructive Meibomian Gland Dysfunction and Normal Patients
Authors: Cui Xinhan , Wu Qingfan , Zhai Zimeng , Yang Yujing , Wei Anji , Xu Jianjiang , Hong Jiaxu
Published: September 2020

Purpose: The aim of this study was to use swept-source anterior segment optical coherence tomography (OCT) to explore imaging the meibomian gland openings and to identify their in vivo characteristics in patients with obstructive meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) and healthy participants. Methods: We enrolled 49 patients with MGD and 54 health controls in this case-control study. Each participant underwent slit-lamp examination, meibography, and OCT scanning. Sixteen patients with MGD underwent a repeat OCT examination after eyelid massage. The outcome measures included determinations of meibomian gland openings (orifices and terminal ducts) from OCT images and comparisons of the meibomian openings between patients with MGD and normal controls before and after meibomian gland massage. Results: Using the same OCT scanning model, the number of visible orifices of the meibomian glands was similar between eyes with MGD and normal eyes (9.2 ± 2.3 vs. 9.7 ± 2.4). The mean diameter of the terminal ducts in patients with MGD was larger (120.22 ± 27.92 µm vs. 100.96 ± 20.30 µm) than in the normal controls, and had a larger coefficient of variation. Significant differences were observed in the mean diameter of the terminal ducts of patients with MGD before and after meibum gland massage (133.73 ± 27.81 μm vs. 102.26 ± 24.30 μm, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Patients with MGD have more diversified orifices and larger meibomian gland terminal duct diameters than normal subjects. In addition, meibomian gland terminal duct diameters seem to decrease in patients with MGD after meibum gland massage.
Underway Measurement of Dissolved Inorganic Carbon (DIC) in Estuarine Waters
Authors: Yan Jinpei , Lin Qi , Poh Seng Chee , Li Yuhong , Zhan Liyang
Published: September 2020

Dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) is an important parameter of the marine carbonate system. Underway analyses of DIC are required to describe spatial and temporal changes of DIC in marine systems. In this study, we developed a microvolume flow detection method for the underway determination of DIC in marine waters, using gas-diffusion flow analysis in conjunction with electrical conductivity (EC) measurement. Only an acid carrier reagent (0.2 mol.L−1) and an ultrapure water acceptor are required for the DIC monitoring system. In this system, a sampling loop (100 µL) is used to quantify the injection sample volume, allowing micro-sample volume detection. The water sample reacts with the acid reagent to convert carbonate and bicarbonate species into CO2. The water sample is then carried into a gas-diffusion assembly, where the CO2 diffuses from the sampling stream into the acceptor stream. CO2 in the acceptor is detected subsequently by an electrical conductivity. The limit of DIC detection using ultrapure water is 0.16 mM. A good repeatability is obtained, with a relative standard deviation (RSD) of 0.56% (1 mM, n = 21). The time interval for detecting one sample is 5 min. During the observation period, measurements can be switched between standard solutions and water samples automatically. Accuracy and precision of the instrument is sufficient for the underway observation of marine DIC in estuarine waters.
Carbon Balance in Salt Marsh and Mangrove Ecosystems: A Global Synthesis
Authors: Alongi Daniel M.
Published: September 2020

Mangroves and salt marshes are among the most productive ecosystems in the global coastal ocean. Mangroves store more carbon (739 Mg CORG ha−1) than salt marshes (334 Mg CORG ha−1), but the latter sequester proportionally more (24%) net primary production (NPP) than mangroves (12%). Mangroves exhibit greater rates of gross primary production (GPP), aboveground net primary production (AGNPP) and plant respiration (RC), with higher PGPP/RC ratios, but salt marshes exhibit greater rates of below-ground NPP (BGNPP). Mangroves have greater rates of subsurface DIC production and, unlike salt marshes, exhibit active microbial decomposition to a soil depth of 1 m. Salt marshes release more CH4 from soil and creek waters and export more dissolved CH4, but mangroves release more CO2 from tidal waters and export greater amounts of particulate organic carbon (POC), dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC), to adjacent waters. Both ecosystems contribute only a small proportion of GPP, RE (ecosystem respiration) and NEP (net ecosystem production) to the global coastal ocean due to their small global area, but contribute 72% of air–sea CO2 exchange of the world’s wetlands and estuaries and contribute 34% of DIC export and 17% of DOC + POC export to the world’s coastal ocean. Thus, both wetland ecosystems contribute disproportionately to carbon flow of the global coastal ocean.
Modeling Invasive Aspergillosis: How Close Are Predicted Antifungal Targets?
Authors: Walsh Thomas J. , Petraitiene Ruta , Petraitis Vidmantas
Published: September 2020

Animal model systems are a critical component of the process of discovery and development of new antifungal agents for treatment and prevention of invasive aspergillosis. The persistently neutropenic rabbit model of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) has been a highly predictive system in identifying new antifungal agents for treatment and prevention of this frequently lethal infection. Since its initial development, the persistently neutropenic rabbit model of IPA has established a strong preclinical foundation for dosages, drug disposition, pharmacokinetics, safety, tolerability, and efficacy for deoxycholate amphotericin B, liposomal amphotericin B, amphotericin B lipid complex, amphotericin B colloidal dispersion, caspofungin, micafungin, anidulafungin, voriconazole, posaconazole, isavuconazole, and ibrexafungerp in treatment of patients with invasive aspergillosis. The findings of combination therapy with a mould-active triazole and an echinocandin in this rabbit model also predicted the outcome of the clinical trial for voriconazole plus anidulafungin for treatment of IPA. The plasma pharmacokinetic parameters and tissue disposition for most antifungal agents approximate those of humans in persistently neutropenic rabbits. Safety, particularly nephrotoxicity, has also been highly predictive in the rabbit model, as exemplified by the differential glomerular filtration rates observed in animals treated with deoxycholate amphotericin B, liposomal amphotericin B, amphotericin B lipid complex, and amphotericin B colloidal dispersion. A panel of validated outcome variables measures therapeutic outcome in the rabbit model: residual fungal burden, markers of organism-mediated pulmonary injury (lung weights and infarct scores), survival, and serum biomarkers. In selected antifungal studies, thoracic computerized tomography (CT) is also used with diagnostic imaging algorithms to measure therapeutic response of pulmonary infiltrates, which exhibit characteristic radiographic patterns, including nodules and halo signs. Further strengthening the predictive properties of the model, therapeutic response to successfully developed antifungal agents for treatment of IPA has been demonstrated over the past two decades by biomarkers of serum galactomannan and (1→3)-β-D-glucan with patterns of resolution, that closely mirror those documented responses in patients with IPA. The decision to move from laboratory to clinical trials should be predicated upon a portfolio of complementary and mutually validating preclinical laboratory animal models studies. Other model systems, including those in mice, rats, and guinea pigs, are also valuable tools in developing clinical protocols. Meticulous preclinical investigation of a candidate antifungal compound in a robust series of complementary laboratory animal models will optimize study design, de-risk clinical trials, and ensure tangible benefit to our most vulnerable immunocompromised patients with invasive aspergillosis.
Semi-Empirical Prediction of Residual Stress Distributions Introduced by Turning Inconel 718 Alloy Based on Lorentz Function
Authors: Peng Huachen , Dong Penghao , Cheng Xianqiang , Zhang Chen , Tang Wencheng , Xing Yan , Zhou Xin
Published: September 2020

The residual stress of machined surface has a crucial influence on the performance of parts. It results in large deviations in terms of the position accuracy, dimension accuracy and service life. The purpose of the present study is to provide a novel semi-empirical residual stress prediction approach for turning Inconel 718. In the method, the bimodal Lorentz function was originally applied to express the residual stress distribution. A statistical model between the coefficients of the bimodal Lorentz function and cutting parameters was established by the random forest regression, in order to predict the residual stress distribution along the depth direction. Finally, the turning experiments, electrolytic corrosion peeling, residual stress measurement and correlation analysis were carried out to verify the accuracy of predicted residual stress. The results show that the bimodal Lorentz function has a great fitting accuracy. The adjusted R2 (Ad-R2) are ranging from 95.4% to 99.4% and 94.7% to 99.6% in circumferential and axial directions, respectively. The maximum and minimum errors of the surface residual tensile stress (SRTS) are 124.564 MPa and 18.082 MPa, those of the peak residual compressive stress (PRCS) are 84.649 MPa and 3.009 MPa and those of the depth of the peak residual compressive stress (DPRCS) are 0.00875 mm and 0.00155 mm, comparing three key feature indicators of predicted and simulated residual stress. The predicted residual stress is highly correlated with the measured residual stress, with correlation coefficients greater than 0.8. In the range of experimental measurement error, the research in the present work provides a quite accurate method for predicting the residual stress in turning Inconel 718, and plays a vital role in controlling the machining deformation of parts.
Theoretical and Experimental Studies of the Structural, Phase Stability and Elastic Properties of AlCrTiFeNi Multi-Principle Element Alloy
Authors: Liu Li , Paudel Ramesh , Liu Yong , Zhao Xiao-Liang , Zhu Jing-Chuan
Published: September 2020

The fundamental challenge for creating the crystal structure model used in a multi-principle element design is the ideal combination of atom components, structural stability, and deformation behavior. However, most of the multi-principle element alloys contain expensive metallic and rare earth elements, which could limit their applicability. Here, a novel design of low-cost AlCrTiFeNi multi-principle element alloy is presented to study the relationship of structure, deformation behavior, and micro-mechanism. This structured prediction of single-phase AlCrTiFeNi by the atomic-size difference, mixing enthalpy ΔHmix and valence electron concentration (VEC), indicate that we can choose the bcc-structured solid solution to design the AlCrTiFeNi multi-principle element alloy. Structural stability prediction by density functional theory calculations (DFT) of single phases has verified that the most advantageous atom occupancy position is (FeCrNi)(AlFeTi). The experimental results showed that the structure of AlCrTiFeNi multi-principle element alloy is bcc1 + bcc2 + L12 phases, which we propose as the fundamental reason for the high strength. Our findings provide a new route by which to design and obtain multi-principle element alloys with targeted properties based on the theoretical predictions, first-principles calculations, and experimental verification.
Analysis of Welded Joint Properties on an AISI316L Stainless Steel Tube Manufactured by SLM Technology
Authors: Mohyla Petr , Hajnys Jiri , Sternadelová Kristýna , Krejčí Lucie , Pagáč Marek , Konečná Kateřina , Krpec Pavel
Published: September 2020

This work is focused on the analysis of the influence of welding on the properties and microstructure of the AISI316L stainless steel tube produced by 3D printing, specifically the SLM (Selective Laser Melting) method. Both non-destructive and destructive tests, including metallographic and fractographic analyses, were performed within the experiment. Microstructure analysis shows that the initial texture of the 3D print disappears toward the fuse boundary. It is evident that high temperature during welding has a positive effect on microstructure. Material failure occurred in the base material near the heat affected zone (HAZ). The results obtained show the fundamental influence of SLM technology in terms of material defects, on the properties of welded joints.
Bioactive Properties of Marine Phenolics
Authors: Mateos Raquel , Pérez-Correa José Ricardo , Domínguez Herminia
Published: September 2020

Phenolic compounds from marine organisms are far less studied than those from terrestrial sources since their structural diversity and variability require powerful analytical tools. However, both their biological relevance and potential properties make them an attractive group deserving increasing scientific interest. The use of efficient extraction and, in some cases, purification techniques can provide novel bioactives useful for food, nutraceutical, cosmeceutical and pharmaceutical applications. The bioactivity of marine phenolics is the consequence of their enzyme inhibitory effect and antimicrobial, antiviral, anticancer, antidiabetic, antioxidant, or anti-inflammatory activities. This review presents a survey of the major types of phenolic compounds found in marine sources, as well as their reputed effect in relation to the occurrence of dietary and lifestyle-related diseases, notably type 2 diabetes mellitus, obesity, metabolic syndrome, cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. In addition, the influence of marine phenolics on gut microbiota and other pathologies is also addressed.
The Involvement of Energy Metabolism and Lipid Peroxidation in Lignin Accumulation of Postharvest Pumelos
Authors: Yan Huiling , Chen Junjia , Liu Juan
Published: September 2020

Lignification is especially prominent in postharvest pumelo fruit, which greatly impairs their attractiveness and commercial value. This study investigated the energy metabolism and lipid peroxidation and their relationship with accumulated lignin content in juice sacs of “Hongroumiyou” (HR) during 90 d of storage at 25 °C. The results indicated that, the alterations of energy metabolism in juice of sacs of postharvest pumelos was featured by a continuous decline in energy charge and ATP/ADP; an increase in succinic dehydrogenase (SDH) activity before 30 d and increases in activities of cytochrome c oxidase (CCO) and F0F1-ATPase before 60 d; but declines in activities of Ca2+-ATPase and H+-ATPase. Additionally, enhanced contents of H2O2, O2−, and –OH scavenging rate; increased malondialdehyde (MDA) content; and transformation of unsaturated fatty acids (USFA) to saturated fatty acids (USFA) and reduced USFA/SFA (U/S) could result in lipid peroxidation and membrane integrity loss. Moreover, correlation analysis showed that lignin accumulation was in close relation to energy metabolism and lipid peroxidation in juice sacs of postharvest pumelos. These results gave evident credence for the involvement of energy metabolism and lipid peroxidation in the lignin accumulation of HR pumelo fruit during postharvest storage.
Second Life Application of Automotive Catalysts: Hydrodynamic Cavitation Recovery and Photo Water Splitting
Authors: Ciocanea Adrian , Vasile Eugeniu , Ionescu Viorel , Maxim Florentina Iuliana , Diac Cornelia , Miron Cristina , Stamatin Serban N.
Published: September 2020

A hydrodynamic cavitation method was used to maximize the effect of destructuration of a honeycomb monolithic support of a spent Selective Catalyst Reduction (SCR) catalyst—V2O5-WO3/TiO2-type—for extracting crystalline titanium and tungsten oxides from the cordierite surface. A high relative inlet pressure of 40 MPa was applied to a divergent nozzle for obtaining high shear stresses of the submerged cavitating jets and intensive micro- and nano-jets and shock waves acting on the particle surface of the milled catalyst. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis indicated the compact morphology of the thin metal oxide layer at the surface of the cordierite support and the high content of Ti and W elements in the sample. Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDAX) performed along with TEM investigations on different nano-zones from the sample established the elemental composition of WO3-TiO2 agglomerates separated after hydrodynamic cavitation processing and identified as independent nanocrystalline structures through Bright Field Transmission Electron Microscopy (BF-TEM) and High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HR-TEM) measurements. The tetragonal anatase phase of TiO2 and cubic phase of WO3 were established by both interplanar d spacing measurements and X-ray diffraction analysis. The photoelectrochemical results showed the possible second life application of automotive catalysts.
Effect of Environmentally Friendly Oil on Ni-Ti Stent Wire Using Ultraprecision Magnetic Abrasive Finishing
Authors: Kim Jeong Su , Nam Sung Sik , Heng Lida , Kim Byeong Sam , Mun Sang Don
Published: September 2020

Nickel-titanium (Ni-Ti) has been widely used to make shape-memory actuator wire for numerous medical industrial applications, with the result that it frequently comes into contact with the human body. High-quality and nontoxic surfaces of this material are therefore in high demand. We used a rotating magnetic field for an ultraprecision finishing of Ni-Ti stent wire biomaterials and evaluated the finishing technique’s efficacy with different processing oils. To create nontoxic Ni-Ti stent wire, the industrial processing oils that are generally used in the surface improvement process were exchanged for oils with low environmental impacts, and processed under rotating magnetic fields at different speeds and processing times. The processing performance of the different oils was compared and verified. The results show that ultraprecision magnetic abrasive finishing that uses olive and castor oil improves surface roughness by 66.67%, and 45.83%, respectively. SEM and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analyses of the finished components (before and after processing) showed that the material composition of the Ni-Ti stent wire was not changed. Additionally, the magnetic abrasive tool composition was not found on the surface of the finished Ni-Ti stent wire. In conclusion, the environmentally friendly oil effectively improved the diameter of the Ni-Ti stent wire, demonstrating the utility of olive and castor oil in ultraprecision finishing of Ni-Ti stent wire biomaterials.
Clog-Free Trilobite Filtration: Tunable Flow Setup and Velocity Measurements
Authors: Mossige Endre Joachim , Jensen Atle
Published: September 2020

The ability to separate and filter out microscopic objects lies at the core of many biomedical applications. However, a persistent problem is clogging, as biomaterials stick to the internal chip surface and limit device efficiency and liability. Here, we review an alternative technique that could solve these clogging issues. By leveraging tunable flow fields and particle inertia around special trilobite-shaped filtration units, we perform filtration of plastic beads by size and we demonstrate sorting of live cells. The separation and filtration are performed completely without signs of clogging. However, a clog-free operation relies on a controlled flow configuration to steer the particles and cells away from the filter structures. In this paper, we describe the tunable flow system for such an operation and we describe an optical setup enabling hydrodynamical interactions between particles and cells with the flow fields and direct interactions with the filter structures to be characterized. The optical setup is capable of measuring particle and flow velocities (by Particle Tracking Velocimetry (PTV), Micro Particle Image Velocimetry (μPIV), and streakline visualization) in meters per second necessary to avoid clogging. However, accurate measurements rely on strict calibration and validation procedures to be followed, and we devote a substantial portion of our paper to laying out such procedures. A comparison between μPIV data and a known flow profile is particularly valuable for assessing measurement accuracy, and this important validation has not been previously published by us. The detail level in our description of the flow configuration and optical system is sufficient to replicate the experiments. In the last part of the paper, we review an assessment of the device performance when handling rigid spheres and live cells. We deconvolute the influences of cell shape from effects of size and find that the shape has only a weak influence on device performance.
Toward Vasculature in Skeletal Muscle-on-a-Chip through Thermo-Responsive Sacrificial Templates
Authors: Wan Li , Flegle James , Ozdoganlar Burak , LeDuc Philip
Published: September 2020

Developing new approaches for vascularizing synthetic tissue systems will have a tremendous impact in diverse areas. One area where this is particularly important is developing new skeletal muscle tissue systems, which could be utilized in physiological model studies and tissue regeneration. To develop vascularized approaches a microfluidic on-chip design for creating channels in polymer systems can be pursued. Current microfluidic tissue engineering methods include soft lithography, rapid prototyping, and cell printing; however, these have limitations such as having their scaffolding being inorganic, less desirable planar vasculature geometry, low fabrication efficiency, and limited resolution. Here we successfully developed a circular microfluidic channel embedded in a 3D extracellular matrix scaffolding with 3D myogenesis. We used a thermo-responsive polymer approach with micromilling-molding and designed a mixture of polyester wax and paraffin wax to fabricate the sacrificial template for microfluidic channel generation in the scaffolding. These findings will impact a number of fields including biomaterials, biomimetic structures, and personalized medicine in the future.
Three-Dimensional Numerical Simulation of Particle Focusing and Separation in Viscoelastic Fluids
Authors: Ni Chen , Jiang Di
Published: September 2020

Particle focusing and separation using viscoelastic microfluidic technology have attracted lots of attention in many applications. In this paper, a three-dimensional lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) coupled with the immersed boundary method (IBM) is employed to study the focusing and separation of particles in viscoelastic fluid. In this method, the viscoelastic fluid is simulated by the LBM with two sets of distribution functions and the fluid–particle interaction is calculated by the IBM. The performance of particle focusing under different microchannel aspect ratios (AR) is explored and the focusing equilibrium positions of the particles with various elasticity numbers and particle diameters are compared to illustrate the mechanism of particle focusing and separation in viscoelastic fluids. The results indicate that, for particle focusing in the square channel (AR = 1), the centerline single focusing becomes a bistable focusing at the centerline and corners as El increases. In the rectangular channels (AR < 1), particles with different diameters have different equilibrium positions. The equilibrium position of large particles is closer to the wall, and large particles have a faster lateral migration speed and few large particles migrate towards the channel center. Compared with the square channel, the rectangular channel is a better design for particle separation.
Experimental Research on Excitation Condition and Performance of Airflow-Induced Acoustic Piezoelectric Generator
Authors: Li Zhipeng , Li Jinghao , Chen Hejuan
Published: September 2020

This paper aims to present a novel airflow-induced acoustic piezoelectric generator that can be used to solve the problem of insufficient power supply of modern intelligent fuzes. The sound waves induced by airflow are the key to power generation performance. It is proposed that an edge tone frequency equal to the acoustic mode frequency is a sufficient condition for evoked acoustic waves, and a design idea and scheme for a universal fuze power supply is provided. We establish the vibration model of the airflow-induced acoustic piezoelectric generator. According to the model, the experimental research on the power generation performance shows that the sound pressure frequency, vibration displacement frequency, and output voltage frequency are consistent. The model provides a design idea for a vibration sensor. At the flow rate of 100.8 m/s, the output power is 45.3 mW, which is much higher than the fuze power sources such as the magnetic backseat generator. Therefore, the airflow-induced piezoelectric generator can effectively solve the problem of the modern fuze less types of power supply and low output energy.
An Easy Method for Pressure Measurement in Microchannels Using Trapped Air Compression in a One-End-Sealed Capillary
Authors: Shen Feng , Ai Mingzhu , Ma Jianfeng , Li Zonghe , Xue Sen
Published: September 2020

Pressure is one basic parameter involved in microfluidic systems. In this study, we developed an easy capillary-based method for measuring fluid pressure at one or multiple locations in a microchannel. The principal component is a commonly used capillary (inner diameter of 400 μm and 95 mm in length), with one end sealed and calibrated scales on it. By reading the height (h) of an air-liquid interface, the pressure can be measured directly from a table, which is calculated using the ideal gas law. Many factors that affect the relationship between the trapped air volume and applied pressure (papplied) have been investigated in detail, including the surface tension, liquid gravity, air solubility in water, temperature variation, and capillary diameters. Based on the evaluation of the experimental and simulation results of the pressure, combined with theoretical analysis, a resolution of about 1 kPa within a full-scale range of 101.6–178 kPa was obtained. A pressure drop (Δp) as low as 0.25 kPa was obtained in an operating range from 0.5 kPa to 12 kPa. Compared with other novel, microstructure-based methods, this method does not require microfabrication and additional equipment. Finally, we use this method to reasonably analyze the nonlinearity of the flow-pressure drop relationship caused by channel deformation. In the future, this one-end-sealed capillary could be used for pressure measurement as easily as a clinical thermometer in various microfluidic applications.
Editorial for the Special Issue “Modern Raman Spectroscopy of Minerals”
Authors: Schmid Thomas , Dariz Petra
Published: September 2020

Raman spectroscopy provides vibrational fingerprints of chemical compounds, enabling their unambiguous identification [...]
Geostatistical and Remote Sensing Studies to Identify High Metallogenic Potential Regions in the Kivi Area of Iran
Authors: Shirazy Adel , Ziaii Mansour , Hezarkhani Ardeshir , Timkin Timofey
Published: September 2020

The Kivi area in the East Azerbaijan Province of Iran is one of the country’s highest-potential regions for metal element exploration. The primary goal herein was to process the data obtained from geochemical, geostatistical, and remote sensing tools (in the form of stream sediment samples and satellite images) to identify metallic mineralization anomalies in the region. After correcting the raw stream sediment geochemical data, single-variable statistical processing was performed, and Ti and Zn were identified as the elements with the highest degree of contrast. The relationship among these elements was further investigated using correlation and hierarchical clustering analyses. Principal component analysis was then applied to determine the principal components related to these elements, which were subsequently plotted on a regional geological map. Elements related to Ti and Zn were identified using threshold limits of anomalous samples determined via linear discriminant analysis. Lithological units and alteration patterns were detected through remote sensing investigations on Landsat-8 images. Stream sediment geochemical and remote sensing survey results identified anomalous areas of Ti and Zn in the eastern part of the study region. Our results indicate that Ti and Zn are good pathfinder elements for further exploratory investigation in this area.
KidneyCare Guided Immuno-Optimization in Renal Allografts: The KIRA Protocol
Authors: Gray Jennifer N. , Wolf-Doty Theresa , Sulejmani Nimisha , Gaber Osama , Axelrod David , Abdalla Basmah , Danovitch Gabriel
Published: September 2020

Immunosuppressant agents are essential in every transplant recipient’s care yet walking the fine line of over- or under-immunosuppression is a constant struggle for both patients and transplant providers alike. Optimization and personalization of immunosuppression has been limited by the need for non-invasive graft surveillance methods that are specific enough to identify organ injury in real time. With this in mind, we propose a pilot study protocol utilizing both donor derived cell free DNA (dd-cfDNA, gene expression profiling (GEP), and machine learning (iBox), called KidneyCare, to assess the feasibility and safety in reducing immunosuppressant exposure without increasing the risk of clinical rejection, graft injury, or allograft loss. Patients randomized to the immunominimization arm will be enrolled in one of two protocols designed to eliminate one immunosuppressant and optimize the dose of the Calcineurin Inhibitors (CNIs) using the KidneyCare platform. All patients will be maintained on dual therapy of either steroids and a low dose CNI, or mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) and low dose CNI. Their outcomes will be compared to patients who have their immunosuppressants managed using standard clinical assessment and treatment protocols to determine the impact of immuno-optimization on graft function, complications, and patient reported outcomes.
Amphiphilic “Like-A-Brush” Oligonucleotide Conjugates with Three Dodecyl Chains: Self-Assembly Features of Novel Scaffold Compounds for Nucleic Acids Delivery
Authors: Pavlova Anna S. , Dovydenko Ilya S. , Kupryushkin Maxim S. , Grigor’eva Alina E. , Pyshnaya Inna A. , Pyshnyi Dmitrii V.
Published: September 2020

The conjugation of lipophilic groups to oligonucleotides is a promising approach for improving nucleic acid-based therapeutics’ intracellular delivery. Lipid oligonucleotide conjugates can self-aggregate in aqueous solution, which gains much attention due to the formation of micellar particles suitable for cell endocytosis. Here, we describe self-association features of novel “like-a-brush” oligonucleotide conjugates bearing three dodecyl chains. The self-assembly of the conjugates into 30–170 nm micellar particles with a high tendency to aggregate was shown using dynamic light scattering (DLS), atomic force (AFM), and transmission electron (TEM) microscopies. Fluorescently labeled conjugates demonstrated significant quenching of fluorescence intensity (up to 90%) under micelle formation conditions. The conjugates possess increased binding affinity to serum albumin as compared with free oligonucleotides. The dodecyl oligonucleotide conjugate and its duplex efficiently internalized and accumulated into HepG2 cells’ cytoplasm without any transfection agent. It was shown that the addition of serum albumin or fetal bovine serum to the medium decreased oligonucleotide uptake efficacy (by 22.5–36%) but did not completely inhibit cell penetration. The obtained results allow considering dodecyl-containing oligonucleotides as scaffold compounds for engineering nucleic acid delivery vehicles.
Effective Immune Functions of Micronutrients against SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Junaid Kashaf , Ejaz Hasan , Abdalla Abualgasim Elgaili , Abosalif Khalid O. A. , Ullah Muhammad Ikram , Yasmeen Humaira , Younas Sonia , Hamam Sanaa S. M. , Rehman Abdul
Published: September 2020

The third coronavirus outbreak in the last two decades has caused significant damage to the world’s economy and community health. The highly contagious COVID-19 infection has affected millions of people to date and has led to hundreds of thousands of deaths worldwide. Aside from the highly infectious nature of SARS-CoV-2, the lack of a treatment or vaccine has been the main reason for its spread. Thus, it has become necessary to find alternative methods for controlling SARS-CoV-2. For the present review, we conducted an online search for different available nutrition-based therapies for previously known coronavirus infections and RNA-based virus infections as well as general antiviral therapies. These treatments have promise for combating COVID-19, as various nutrients and minerals play direct and indirect roles in the control and prevention of this newly emerged viral infection. The patients’ nutritional status with COVID-19 must be analyzed before administering any treatment, and nutritional supplements should be given to the affected individuals along with routine treatment. We suggest a potential interventional role of nutrients to strengthen the immune system against the emerging infection caused by COVID-19.