bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tree-Ring Width Data of Tsuga longibracteata Reveal Growing Season Temperature Signals in the North-Central Pearl River Basin since 1824 AD
Authors: Li Teng , Li Jinbao , Au Tsun Fung , Zhang David Dian
Published: August 2021

Concerning the ecological and economical importance of the Pearl River basin, short-term climate changes have been widely studied by using the instrumental records in the basin, but there is still a lack of long-term climatic reconstructions that can be used to evaluate the centennial scale climate anomalies. Here, we present a 237-year tree-ring width chronology from Tsuga longibracteata in the north-central Pearl River basin, with reliable coverage from 1824 to 2016. Based on the significant relationship between tree growth and mean temperature from the previous March to the previous October, we reconstructed the previous growing season (pMar-pOct) temperatures for the past 193 years, with an explained variance of 43.3% during 1958–2016. The reconstruction reveals three major warm (1857–1890, 1964–1976, and 1992–2016) and cold (1824–1856, 1891–1963, and 1977–1991) periods during 1824–2016. Comparison with other temperature sensitive proxy records from nearby regions suggests that our reconstruction is representative of large-scale temperature variations. Significant correlations of tree growth with the sea surface temperatures (SSTs) in the western Pacific Ocean, northern Indian Ocean, and Atlantic Ocean suggest that SST variability in these domains may have strongly influenced the growing season temperature change in the Pearl River basin.
A Genealogy of XIXth Century French Criticism—Typology, Physiology and Genealogy in Sainte-Beuve, Taine and Nietzsche
Authors: Sorosina Arnaud
Published: August 2021

The genealogical paradigm was renewed in French literary criticism in the XIXth Century. The problem it encounters is the following: on the one hand, to reduce the specificity of literary and artistic genius within natural or historical laws; on the other hand, being too fascinated by the uniqueness of genius, so that any historical explanation of the latter could be attempted. Literary genealogy in France is aimed at escaping the antithesis between reductionist naturalism and ahistorical romanticism. First approached through both a biographical and naturalistic method by Charles-Augustin Sainte-Beuve during the first half of the century, it turns into a more physiological and Darwinian perspective through Hippolyte Taine’s historiography. Seen from Nietzsche’s European point of view, this way of proceeding lacks self-examination, because every good genealogy must become aware of the values it conveys.
Genetic Profile in Genes Associated with Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Elite Spanish Male Endurance Athletes
Authors: Varillas-Delgado David , Tellería Orriols Juan José , Del Coso Juan
Published: August 2021

Background: most of the research concerning the influence of genetics on endurance performance has been carried out by investigating target genes separately. However, endurance performance is a complex trait that can stem from the interaction of several genes. The objective of this study was to compare the frequencies of polymorphisms in target genes involving cardiorespiratory functioning in elite endurance athletes vs. non-athlete controls. Methods: genotypic frequencies were determined in 123 elite endurance athletes and in 122 non-athletes. Genotyping of ACE (rs4340), NOS3 (rs2070744 and rs1799983), ADRA2a (rs1800544 and rs553668), ADRB2 (rs1042713 and rs1042714), and BDKRB2 (rs5810761) was performed by polymerase chain reaction. The total genotype score (TGS: from 0 to 100 arbitrary units; a.u.) was calculated from the genotype score in each polymorphism. Results: the mean TGS in non-athletes (47.72 ± 11.29 a.u.) was similar to elite endurance athletes (46.54 ± 11.32 a.u., p = 0.415). The distribution of TGS frequencies were also similar in non-athletes and elite endurance athletes (p = 0.333). There was no TGS cut-off point to discriminate being elite endurance athletes. Conclusions: the genetic profile in the selected genes was similar in elite endurance athletes and in controls, suggesting that the combination of these genes does not determine endurance performance.
Correction: Farrukh, A.; Mayberry, J. Apparent Disparities in Hospital Admission and Biologic Use in the Management of Inflammatory Bowel Disease between 2014–2018 in Some Black and Ethnic Minority (BEM) Populations in England. Gastrointest. Disord. 2020, 2, 144–151
Authors: Farrukh Affifa , Mayberry John
Published: August 2021

The authors wish to make the following correction to this paper [...]
A Bayes Decision Rule to Assist Policymakers during a Pandemic
Authors: Cao Kang-Hua , Damien Paul , Woo Chi-Keung , Zarnikau Jay
Published: August 2021

A new decision rule based on net benefit per capita is proposed and exemplified with the aim of assisting policymakers in deciding whether to lockdown or reopen an economy—fully or partially—amidst a pandemic. Bayesian econometric models using Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithms are used to quantify this rule, which is illustrated via several sensitivity analyses. While we use COVID-19 data from the United States to demonstrate the ideas, our approach is invariant to the choice of pandemic and/or country. The actions suggested by our decision rule are consistent with the closing and reopening of the economies made by policymakers in Florida, Texas, and New York; these states were selected to exemplify the methodology since they capture the broad spectrum of COVID-19 outcomes in the U.S.
Aspects of Hydrogen and Biomethane Introduction in Natural Gas Infrastructure and Equipment
Authors: Quintino Filipe M. , Nascimento Nuno , Fernandes Edgar C.
Published: August 2021

The injection of green hydrogen and biomethane is currently seen as the next step towards the decarbonization of the gas sector in several countries. However, the introduction of these gases in existent infrastructure has energetic, material and operational implications that should be carefully looked at. With regard to a fully blown green gas grid, transport and distribution will require adaptations. Furthermore, the adequate performance of end-use equipment connected to the grid must be accounted for. In this paper, a technical analysis of the energetic, material and operational aspects of hydrogen and biomethane introduction in natural gas infrastructure is performed. Impacts on gas transmission and distribution are evaluated and an interchangeability analysis, supported by one-dimensional Cantera simulations, is conducted. Existing gas infrastructure seems to be generally fit for the introduction of hydrogen and biomethane. Hydrogen content up to 20% by volume appears to be possible to accommodate in current infrastructure with only minor technical modifications. However, at the Distribution System Operator (DSO) level, the introduction of gas quality tracking systems will be required due to the distributed injection nature of hydrogen and biomethane. The different tolerances for hydrogen blending of consumers, depending on end-use equipment, may be critical during the transition period to a 100% green gas grid as there is a risk of pushing consumers off the grid.
Contribution of Segments to Overall Result in Elite Triathletes: Sprint Distance
Authors: Olaya Javier , Fernández-Sáez José , Østerlie Ove , Ferriz-Valero Alberto
Published: August 2021

As an alternative to analysing the contribution of performance in specific segments of a triathlon to the overall result as measured in terms of time or position, which has several limitations, previous studies have instead analysed the performance indicator in triathlon. Therefore, the purpose of the study was to analyse the relationship between performance in specific segments and overall performance in terms of sprint distance in elite triathletes through the triathlon performance indicator, instead of using time or position. The official sprint distance results from World Triathlon Series elite events from 2012 to 2019 were examined. In total, 2144 entries were considered, 1143 of which were men and 1001 were women. Performance in the cycling segment presents the best concordance with the overall performance for both elite men (ICCa = 0.871, IC95% = (0.711–0.927)) and elite women (ICCa = 0.907, IC95% = (0.875–0.929)). Although the performance in the running segment does not show the best concordance with the overall performance, the position in this segment does better explain the overall position, especially in elite men and in draft-legal races. These results can support coaches and athletes to identify a specific profile of the strengths and weaknesses of triathletes in competitions, in comparison to their rivals, over a specific distance.
The Gender-Specific Relationship between Nutritional Status, Physical Activity and Functional Mobility in Irish Community-Dwelling Older Adults
Authors: O’Connell Maeve , Coppinger Tara , Lacey Seán , Arsenic Tijana , McCarthy Aoife
Published: August 2021

Research suggests that both nutrition and physical activity can protect mobility in older adults, but it is yet to be determined whether these relationships are affected by gender. Thus, we investigated the gender-specific relationship between nutritional status, physical activity level and functional mobility in Irish older adults. A cross-sectional study was undertaken in 176 community-dwelling older adults (73.6 ± 6.61 years) living in Cork, Ireland. Nutritional status was measured using the Mini Nutritional Assessment-Short Form (MNA-SF) and physical activity was assessed via the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE). Functional mobility was measured using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test. The gender-stratified relationship between variables was assessed using Pearson’s correlations and multiple linear regression. Partial correlations (p < 0.05) were observed for TUG with PASE score in both genders, and with MNA-SF score in females, only. Multiple regression showed that physical activity was a predictor of TUG in both genders (β = 0.257 for males, β = 0.209 for females, p < 0.05), while nutritional status was a predictor of TUG in females, only (β = −0.168, p = 0.030). Our results suggest that physical activity is associated with functional mobility in both genders, while the relationship between nutritional status and mobility may be specific to older females. These findings may be of interest for the design of functional preservation strategies.
Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Occupational Groups—Trends over 20 Years and Future Forecasts
Authors: Väisänen Daniel , Kallings Lena. V. , Andersson Gunnar , Wallin Peter , Hemmingsson Erik , Ekblom-Bak Elin
Published: August 2021

Background: Reports have indicated a negative trend in cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) in the general population. However, trends in relation to different occupational groups are missing. Therefore, the aim of our study was to examine the trends in CRF during the last 20 years, and to provide a prognosis of future trends in CRF, in different occupational groups of Swedish workers. Methods: Data from 516,122 health profile assessments performed between 2001 to 2020 were included. CRF was assessed as maximal oxygen consumption and was estimated from a submaximal cycling test. Analyses include CRF as a weighted average, standardized proportions with low CRF (<32 mL/min/kg), adjusted annual change in CRF, and forecasting of future trends in CRF. Results: There was a decrease in CRF over the study period, with the largest decrease in both absolute and relative CRF seen for individuals working in administrative and customer service (−10.1% and −9.4%) and mechanical manufacturing (−6.5% and −7.8%) occupations. The greatest annual decrease was seen in transport occupations (−1.62 mL/min/kg, 95% CI −0.190 to −0.134). Men and younger individuals had in generally a more pronounced decrease in CRF. The proportion with a low CRF increased, with the greatest increase noted for blue-collar and low-skilled occupations (range: +19% to +27% relative change). The forecast analyses predicted a continuing downward trend of CRF. Conclusion: CRF has declined in most occupational groups in Sweden over the last two decades, with a more pronounced decline in blue-collar and low-skilled occupational groups.
Predict the Suitable Places to Run in the Urban Area of Beijing by Using the Maximum Entropy Model
Authors: Song Liuyi , Zhang An
Published: August 2021

Many people in the world do not have enough physical activities to maintain good health, which has recently become a threat to public health. In addition to individual genetic and social factors, we considered the geographical environment of the city as a factor that affects these healthy physical activities. We used the location-based data in social media combined with the open geographic data to explore the impact mechanism of urban environmental factors on human running behaviors. This study collected nine urban environmental variables and preference tracks in Beijing’s main urban area. We used the Maximum Entropy Model (MaxEnt) to analyze the relationship between running behaviors and environmental variables and identify suitable areas for running in Beijing. The results showed that: firstly, the variables of attractions, sports and sidewalk density contributed the most to running suitability. Secondly, 47.5% of the main urban areas in Beijing are suitable for running, mainly in the main urban areas with better economic development. Thirdly, the distribution of suitable places for running is unfair in that some places with large populations do not have a matching running environment.
A Methodological Proposal for the Analysis of Lighting the House Building Façades
Authors: Castro Noblejas Hugo , Sortino Barrionuevo Juan Francisco , Gumiel Muñoz Darío , Mérida Rodríguez Matías Francisco
Published: August 2021

Natural lighting is a fundamental element in the habitability of dwellings. However, it is still difficult to calculate its effect on the façades of the buildings in detail, due to the morphological complexity of the property itself, as well as the environment that surrounds it. This study provides a methodological proposal that uses pre-existing open data to extrude buildings by using a GIS procedure. Based on three selected real estate properties with different characteristics in the city of Marbella (Spain), the hours of sunlight received by each building’s façade are calculated, taking into account the digital land model and the digital surface model of the area. The results confirm the usefulness of the method to measure and analyze differences in luminosity between buildings with similar urban characteristics and their surroundings, as well as to record the differences in luminosity between floors and the orientations of the same building at several heights. The methodological proposal opens a path for many applications related to energy efficiency, housing conditions, and property valuation.
Fast Geo-Location Method Based on Panoramic Skyline in Hilly Area
Authors: Pan Zhibin , Tang Jin , Tjahjadi Tardi , Guo Fan
Published: August 2021

Localization method based on skyline for visual geo-location is an important auxiliary localization method that does not use a satellite positioning system. Due to the computational complexity, existing panoramic skyline localization methods determine a small area using prior knowledge or auxiliary sensors. After correcting the camera orientation using inertial navigation sensors, a fine position is achieved via the skyline. In this paper, a new panoramic skyline localization method is proposed that involves the following. By clustering the sampling points in the location area and improving the existing retrieval method, the computing efficiency of the panoramic skyline localization is increased by fourfold. Furthermore, the camera orientation is estimated accurately from the terrain features in the image. Experimental results show that the proposed method achieves higher localization accuracy and requires less computation for a large area without the aid of external sensors.
Pyranoanthocyanins Interfering with the Quorum Sensing of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Coelho Patrícia , Oliveira Joana , Fernandes Iva , Araújo Paula , Pereira Ana Rita , Gameiro Paula , Bessa Lucinda J.
Published: August 2021

Bacterial quorum sensing (QS) is a cell-cell communication system that regulates several bacterial mechanisms, including the production of virulence factors and biofilm formation. Thus, targeting microbial QS is seen as a plausible alternative strategy to antibiotics, with potentiality to combat multidrug-resistant pathogens. Many phytochemicals with QS interference activity are currently being explored. Herein, an extract and a compound of bioinspired origin were tested for their ability to inhibit biofilm formation and interfere with the expression of QS-related genes in Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. The extract, a carboxypyranoanthocyanins red wine extract (carboxypyrano-ant extract), and the pure compound, carboxypyranocyanidin-3-O-glucoside (carboxypyCy-3-glc), did not cause a visible effect on the biofilm formation of the P. aeruginosa biofilms; however, both significantly affected the formation of biofilms by the S. aureus strains, as attested by the crystal violet assay and fluorescence microscopy. Both the extract and the pure compound significantly interfered with the expression of several QS-related genes in the P. aeruginosa and S. aureus biofilms, as per reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) results. Indeed, it was possible to conclude that these molecules interfere with QS at distinct stages and in a strain-specific manner. An extract with anti-QS properties could be advantageous because it is easily obtained and could have broad, antimicrobial therapeutic applications if included in topical formulations.
Structural Water Stabilizes Protein Motifs in Liquid Protein Phase: The Folding Mechanism of Short β-Sheets Coupled to Phase Transition
Authors: Papp Dóra , Szigyártó Imola Csilla , Nordén Bengt , Perczel András , Beke-Somfai Tamás
Published: August 2021

Macromolecular associates, such as membraneless organelles or lipid-protein assemblies, provide a hydrophobic environment, i.e., a liquid protein phase (LP), where folding preferences can be drastically altered. LP as well as the associated phase change from water (W) is an intriguing phenomenon related to numerous biological processes and also possesses potential in nanotechnological applications. However, the energetic effects of a hydrophobic yet water-containing environment on protein folding are poorly understood. Here, we focus on small β-sheets, the key motifs of proteins, undergoing structural changes in liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS) and also model the mechanism of energy-coupled unfolding, e.g., in proteases, during W → LP transition. Due to the importance of the accurate description for hydrogen bonding patterns, the employed models were studied by using quantum mechanical calculations. The results demonstrate that unfolding is energetically less favored in LP by ~0.3–0.5 kcal·mol−1 per residue in which the difference further increased by the presence of explicit structural water molecules, where the folded state was preferred by ~1.2–2.3 kcal·mol−1 per residue relative to that in W. Energetics at the LP/W interfaces was also addressed by theoretical isodesmic reactions. While the models predict folded state preference in LP, the unfolding from LP to W renders the process highly favorable since the unfolded end state has >1 kcal·mol−1 per residue excess stabilization.
The Use of Total Thrombus Formation Analysis System as a Tool to Assess Platelet Function in Bleeding and Thrombosis Risk—A Systematic Review
Authors: Sikora Joanna , Karczmarska-Wódzka Aleksandra , Bugieda Joanna , Sobczak Przemysław
Published: August 2021

Background. Today there are many devices that can be used to study blood clotting disorders by identifying abnormalities in blood platelets. The Total Thrombus Formation Analysis System is an automated microchip flow chamber system that is used for the quantitative analysis of clot formation under blood flow conditions. For several years, researchers have been using a tool to analyse various clinical situations of patients to identify the properties and biochemical processes occurring within platelets and their microenvironment. Methods. An investigation of recent published literature was conducted based on PRISMA. This review includes 52 science papers directly related to the use of the Total Clot Formation Analysis System in relation to bleeding, surgery, platelet function assessment, anticoagulation monitoring, von Willebrand factor and others. Conclusion. Most available studies indicate that The Total Thrombus Formation Analysis System may be useful in diagnostic issues, with devices used to monitor therapy or as a significant tool for predicting bleeding events. However, T-TAS not that has the potential for diagnostic indications, but allows the direct observation of the flow and the interactions between blood cells, including the intensity and dynamics of clot formation. The device is expected to be of significant value for basic research to observe the interactions and changes within platelets and their microenvironment.
Persistence of the Exotic Mirid Nesidiocoris tenuis (Hemiptera: Miridae) in South Texas
Authors: Esparza-Diaz Gabriela , Marconi Thiago , Avila Carlos A. , Villanueva Raul T.
Published: August 2021

The Rio Grande Valley is one of the most productive agricultural areas in the U.S and is located in the southernmost part of Texas. In October 2013, we detected an exotic plant bug, Nesidiocoris tenuis Reuter (Hemiptera: Miridae: Bryocorinae) occurring in the region. Nesidiocoris tenuis has zoophytophagous habits; however, in the absence of insect prey, it feeds on its plant hosts. After its morphological and genetic identification, this study monitored the population of N. tenuis in its introduction phase in commercial fields and corroborated its establishment in research fields for three years. Populations of N. tenuis were high during the fall and low during winter. This study found that N. tenuis populations were higher in tomato fields as compared to adjacent pepper, okra, and squash fields, indicating its host preferences during the introduction phase. Recurrent population growth patterns suggest that N. tenuis was established in Rio Grande Valley with permanent populations in tomato fields. In addition, N. tenuis populations were affected by tomato cultivar selection and by plastic mulch color. The presence of N. tenuis could establish a new trophic insect relationship for vegetable production. However, it is unknown if the presence of N. tenuis may help to control pests of economic importance, such as whiteflies in cotton, or become a pest on sesame, an emerging crop.
(E)-3-[4-(1H-Imidazol-1-yl)phenyl]-1-(4-methylphenyl)prop-2-en-1-one
Authors: Bailey Nicholas , Ashburn Bradley O.
Published: August 2021

Imidazole-containing chalcones have been shown to be strongly effective against Aspergillusfumigatus, the causative agent for the disease pulmonary aspergillosis. Claisen–Schmidt condensation of 4-(1H-imidazol-1-yl)benzaldehyde with 4′-methylacetophenone using aqueous sodium hydroxide in methanol yielded the novel compound (E)-3-[4-(1H-imidazol-1-yl)phenyl]-1-(4-methylphenyl)prop-2-en-1-one in good yield and purity after recrystallization from hot methanol. With the known antifungal properties of these combined pharmacophores, this novel compound is suitable for anti-aspergillus activity study.
Predicting Compression Pressure of Knitted Fabric Using a Modified Laplace’s Law
Authors: Teyeme Yetanawork , Malengier Benny , Tesfaye Tamrat , Vasile Simona , Endalew Wolelaw , Van Langenhove Lieva
Published: August 2021

The aim of this study is to develop a mathematical model for the prediction of compression pressure based on fabric parameters, such as engineering stress, engineering strain and engineering modulus of elasticity. Four knitted compression fabrics with different fibrous compositions and knit structures were used. Rectangular-cut strips were employed for the force–elongation characterization of the fabrics. The experimental pressure values between the fabric and rigid cylinder were assessed using a Picopress pressure measuring device. The mechanical and physical parameters of the fabric that influence the interface pressure, such as strain, elasticity modulus/stress and thickness, were determined and integrated into Laplace’s law. A good correlation was observed between the experimental and calculated pressure values for all combinations of fabrics, mounted with variable tension on the cylinder. Over the considered range of pressures, the difference between the two datasets was generally less than 0.5 mmHg. The effect of washing after five, ten and fifteen washing cycles on the fabric–cylinder interface pressure was found to be significant.
Optimization of Process Parameters in CNC Turning of Aluminum 7075 Alloy Using L27 Array-Based Taguchi Method
Authors: Akhtar Mohammad Nishat , Sathish T. , Mohanavel V. , Afzal Asif , Arul K. , Ravichandran M. , Rahim Inzarulfaisham Abd , Alhady S. S. N. , Bakar Elmi Abu , Saleh B.
Published: August 2021

With the advent of the industrial revolution 4.0, the goal of the manufacturing industry is to produce a large number of products in relatively less time. This study applies the Taguchi L27 orthogonal array methodological paradigm along with response surface design. This work optimizes the process parameters in the turning of Aluminum Alloy 7075 using a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine. The optimal parameters influenced the rate of metal removal, the roughness of the machined surface, and the force of cutting. This experimental investigation deals with the optimization of speed (800 rpm, 1200 rpm, and 1600 rpm) and feed (0.15, 0.20, and 0.25 mm/rev) in addition to cutting depth (1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 mm) on the turning of Aluminum 7075 alloy in a CNC machine. The outcome in terms of results such as the removal rate of material (maximum), roughness on the machined surface (minimum), along with cutting force (least amount) were improved by the L27 array Taguchi method. There were 27 specimens of Al7075 alloy produced as per the array, and the corresponding responses were measured with the help of various direct contact and indirect contact sensors. Results were concluded all the way through diagrams of main effects in favor of signal-to-noise ratios and diagrams of surfaces with contour diagrams for various combinations of responses.
Characterizations and Antibacterial Efficacy of Chitosan Oligomers Synthesized by Microwave-Assisted Hydrogen Peroxide Oxidative Depolymerization Method for Infectious Wound Applications
Authors: Doan Vinh Khanh , Ly Khanh Loan , Tran Nam Minh-Phuong , Ho Trinh Phuong-Thi , Ho Minh Hieu , Dang Nhi Thao-Ngoc , Chang Cheng-Chung , Nguyen Hoai Thi-Thu , Ha Phuong Thu , Tran Quyen Ngoc , Tran Lam Dai , Vo Toi Van , Nguyen Thi Hiep
Published: August 2021

The use of naturally occurring materials with antibacterial properties has gained a great interest in infected wound management. Despite being an abundant resource in Vietnam, chitosan and its derivatives have not yet been intensively explored for their potential in such application. Here, we utilized a local chitosan source to synthesize chitosan oligomers (OCS) using hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) oxidation under the microwave irradiation method. The effects of H2O2 concentration on the physicochemical properties of OCS were investigated through molecular weight, degree of deacetylation, and heavy metal contamination for optimization of OCS formulation. Then, the antibacterial inhibition was examined; the minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration (MIC and MBC) of OCS-based materials were determined against common skin-inhabitant pathogens. The results show that the local Vietnamese chitosan and its derivative OCS possessed high-yield purification while the molecular weight of OCS was inversely proportional and proportional to the concentration of H2O2, respectively. Further, the MIC and MBC of OCS ranged from 3.75 to less than 15 mg/mL and 7.5–15 mg/mL, respectively. Thus, OCS-based materials induce excellent antimicrobial properties and can be attractive for wound dressings and require further investigation.
High-Energy Mechanical Milling-Driven Reamorphization in Glassy Arsenic Monoselenide: On the Path of Tailoring Special Molecular-Network Glasses
Authors: Shpotyuk Yaroslav , Demchenko Pavlo , Shpotyuk Oleh , Balitska Valentina , Boussard-Pledel Catherine , Bureau Bruno , Lukáčová Bujňáková Zdenka , Baláž Peter
Published: August 2021

The impact of high-energy milling on glassy arsenic monoselenide g-AsSe is studied with X-ray diffraction applied to diffuse peak-halos proper to intermediate- and extended-range ordering revealed in first and second sharp diffraction peaks (FSDP and SSDP). A straightforward interpretation of this effect is developed within the modified microcrystalline approach, treating “amorphous” halos as a superposition of the broadened Bragg diffraction reflexes from remnants of some inter-planar correlations, supplemented by the Ehrenfest diffraction reflexes from most prominent inter-molecular and inter-atomic correlations belonging to these quasi-crystalline remnants. Under nanomilling, the cage-like As4Se4 molecules are merely destroyed in g-AsSe, facilitating a more polymerized chain-like network. The effect of nanomilling-driven molecular-to-network reamorphization results in a fragmentation impact on the correlation length of FSDP-responsible entities (due to an increase in the FSDP width and position). A breakdown in intermediate-range ordering is accompanied by changes in extended-range ordering due to the high-angular shift and broadening of the SSDP. A breakdown in the intermediate-range order is revealed in the destruction of most distant inter-atomic correlations, which belong to remnants of some quasi-crystalline planes, whereas the longer correlations dominate in the extended-range order. The microstructure scenarios of milling-driven reamorphization originated from the As4Se4 molecule, and its network derivatives are identified with an ab initio quantum-chemical cluster modeling code (CINCA).
Highly Conductive Nanocrystalline Diamond Films and Electronic Metallization Scheme
Authors: Chen Xin , Mohr Markus , Brühne Kai , Fecht Hans-Jörg
Published: August 2021

By using a methane and hydrogen process gas mixture in an appropriate hot-filament CVD process without further dopant, high electrical conductivity of over 100 S/cm has been achieved in nanocrystalline diamond films deposited on silicon single-crystalline substrates. Furthermore, it was found that an oxygen reactive-ion etching process (O-RIE) can improve the diamond film surface’s electron affinity, thus reducing the specific contact resistance. The reduction of the specific contact resistance by a factor of up to 16 was realized by the oxygen ion etching process, down to 6×10−6 Ωcm2. We provide a qualitative explanation for the mechanism behind the contact resistance reduction in terms of the electron affinity of the diamond surface. With the aid of XPS, AFM, and surface wetting measurements, we confirmed that a higher surface electron affinity is responsible for the lower specific contact resistance of the oxygen-terminated nanocrystalline diamond films.
Electrical Conductivity of Glass Fiber-Reinforced Plastic with Nanomodified Matrix for Damage Diagnostic
Authors: Stankevich Stanislav , Bulderberga Olga , Tarasovs Sergejs , Zeleniakiene Daiva , Omastova Maria , Aniskevich Andrey
Published: August 2021

The electrical conductivity of glass fiber-reinforced plastic (GFRP) with epoxy matrix modified by multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) was studied. The electrical conductivity of nanomodified lamina and multi-layered GFRP was investigated on several levels using a structural approach. Components of the electrical conductivity tensor for unidirectional-reinforced monolayer were calculated similarly as in micromechanics using the conductivity of the nanomodified matrix. The electrical conductivity of multilayer composite was calculated using laminate theory and compared with values measured experimentally for various fiber orientation angles. Calculated and experimental data were in good agreement. The voltage distribution measured throughout the laminate allowed detecting the damage in its volume. The electrode network located on the laminate surface could determine the location, quantification, and geometry of the damage in the GFRP lamina modified with MWCNT. Experimental and calculated electrical resistance data for GFRP double-cantilever beam specimens were investigated in Mode I interlaminar fracture toughness test. Results demonstrate that electrical resistance could be successfully used for the diagnostic of the crack propagation during interlaminar fracture of the MWCNT-modified GFRP.
On the Possibility of Developing Magnetostrictive Fe-Co/Ni Clad Plate with Both Vibration Energy Harvesting and Mass Sensing Elements
Authors: Mori Kotaro , Wang Yinli , Katabira Kenichi , Neyama Daiki , Onodera Ryuichi , Chiba Daiki , Watanabe Masahito , Narita Fumio
Published: August 2021

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) has spread rapidly around the world. In order to prevent the spread of infection, city blockades and immigration restrictions have been introduced in each country, but these measures have a severe serious impact on the economy. This paper examines the possibility of both harvesting vibration energy and detecting mass by using a magnetostrictive alloy. Few efforts have been made to develop new magnetostrictive biosensor materials. Therefore, we propose magnetostrictive Fe-Co/Ni clad steel vibration energy harvesters with mass detection, and we numerically and experimentally discuss the effect of the proof mass weight on the frequency shift and output voltage induced by bending vibration. The results reveal that the frequency and output voltage decrease significantly as the mass increases, indicating that the energy harvesting device is capable of mass detection. In the future, device miniaturization and the possibility of virus detection will be considered.
The Effect of Nitrogen Linear Flow on Lubricant Removal and Sintering Densification of Alumix 431D Grade Powder
Authors: Kazior Jan , Pieczonka Tadeusz , Laska Mateusz
Published: August 2021

ECKA Granules Alumix 431D commercial grade, press ready, pre-alloyed aluminium-based powder containing 1.5 mass% of Acrawax C was used to study the effect of nitrogen linear flow on de-lubrication and sintering densification. In situ dimensional changes were controlled by dilatometry. Microstructural observations of sintered compacts were also performed. The results clearly showed the strong influence of nitrogen linear flow on de-lubrication, and thus on the sintering behaviour of the examined powder. High nitrogen linear flow is required to produce the desired sintered microstructure—characterised by residual porosity. In contrast, at low nitrogen velocity, the lubricant removal is not complete, which in turn significantly impedes densification.
Fabrication of Optical Fibers with Multiple Coatings for Swelling-Based Chemical Sensing
Authors: Dorobantu Dorel , Jderu Alin , Enachescu Marius , Ziegler Dominik
Published: August 2021

We discuss distributed chemical sensing based on the swelling of coatings of optical fibers. Volume changes in the coating induce strain in the fiber’s glass core, provoking a local change in the refractive index which is detectable by distributed fiber optical sensing techniques. We describe methods to realize different coatings on a single fiber. Simultaneous detection of swelling processes all along the fiber opens the possibility to interrogate thousands of differently functionalized sections on a single fiber. Principal component analysis is used to enable sensors for environmental monitoring, food analysis, agriculture, water quality monitoring, or medical diagnostics.
Mechanical Durability of Flexible Printed Circuit Boards Containing Thin Coverlays Fabricated with Poly(Amide-Imide-Urethane)/Epoxy Interpenetrating Networks
Authors: Kim Jeongah , Kim Bo-Young , Park Seong Dae , Seo Ji-Hun , Lee Chan-Jae , Yoo Myong Jae , Kim Youngmin
Published: August 2021

Because electronics are becoming flexible, the demand for techniques to manufacture thin flexible printed circuit boards (FPCBs) has increased. Conventional FPCBs are fabricated by attaching a coverlay film (41 μm) onto copper patterns/polyimide (PI) film to produce the structure of coverlay/Cu patterns/PI film. Given that the conventional coverlay consists of two layers of polyimide film and adhesive, its thickness must be reduced to generate thinner FPCBs. In this study, we fabricated 25-μm-thick poly(amide-imide-urethane)/epoxy interpenetrating networks (IPNs) to replace the thick conventional coverlay. Poly(amide-imide-urethane) (PAIU) was synthesized by reacting isocyanate-capped polyurethane with trimellitic anhydride and then mixed with epoxy resin to produce PAIU/epoxy IPNs after curing. Thanks to the soft segments of polyurethane, the elongation of PAIU/epoxy IPNs increased with increasing PAIU content and reached over 200%. After confirming the excellent thermal stability and chemical resistance of the PAIU/epoxy IPNs, we fabricated FPCBs by equipping them as coverlays. The mechanical durability of the FPCBs was evaluated through an MIT folding test, and the FPCB fabricated with PAIU/ep-2 was stable up to 164 folding cycles because of the balanced mechanical properties.
ECORE: A New Fast Automated Quantitative Mineral and Elemental Core Scanner
Authors: Paradis Marie-Chloé Michaud , Doucet François R. , Rifai Kheireddine , Özcan Lütfü Ç. , Azami Nawfel , Vidal François
Published: August 2021

Scarce platinum group elements (PGE) are mainly concealed in massive sulfides, and finding economically viable ore bodies largely relies on their fast chemical mapping. Most core scanners provide incomplete mineralogical contents, but none also provide a complete chemical analysis including light elements. This study investigates the performance of a fully automated laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) core scanner, the ECORE, by comparing its reliability to a scanning electron microscope-energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) mineral mapper and its speed to infrared diffuse reflectance hyperspectral imagers (IR-HSI). The LIBS elemental imaging has been put to the test in our previous work, as well as the high-resolution mineralogical mapping. This paper reports the scaling up analytical applicability of LIBS as a high performance and high-speed drill core scanner. The analysis of a full core tray in this study is the first and largest 7.62 megapixels image done by a LIBS core scanner to our knowledge. Both high-resolution and low-resolution data are put together to express both mineralogical and chemical content as a function of depth.
Triarylborane Dyes as a Novel Non-Covalent and Non-Inhibitive Fluorimetric Markers for DPP III Enzyme
Authors: Ban Željka , Karačić Zrinka , Tomić Sanja , Amini Hashem , Marder Todd B. , Piantanida Ivo
Published: August 2021

Novel dyes were prepared by simple “click CuAAC” attachment of a triarylborane–alkyne to the azide side chain of an amino acid yielding triarylborane dye 1 which was conjugated with pyrene (dye 2) forming a triarylborane–pyrene FRET pair. In contrast to previous cationic triarylboranes, the novel neutral dyes interact only with proteins, while their affinity to DNA/RNA is completely abolished. Both the reference triarylborane amino acid and triarylborane–pyrene conjugate bind to BSA and the hDPP III enzyme with high affinities, exhibiting a strong (up to 100-fold) fluorescence increase, whereby the triarylborane–pyrene conjugate additionally retained FRET upon binding to the protein. Furthermore, the triarylborane dyes, upon binding to the hDPP III enzyme, did not impair its enzymatic activity under a wide range of experimental conditions, thus being the first non-covalent fluorimetric markers for hDPP III, also applicable during enzymatic reactions with hDPP III substrates.
Antibacterial Activities and Molecular Docking of Novel Sulfone Biscompound Containing Bioactive 1,2,3-Triazole Moiety
Authors: Rashdan Huda R. M. , Shehadi Ihsan A. , Abdelrahman Mohamad T. , Hemdan Bahaa A.
Published: August 2021

In this study, a new synthetic 1,2,3-triazole-containing disulfone compound was derived from dapsone. Its chemical structure was confirmed using microchemical and analytical data, and it was tested for its in vitro antibacterial potential. Six different pathogenic bacteria were selected. MICs values and ATP levels were determined. Further, toxicity performance was measured using MicroTox Analyzer. In addition, a molecular docking study was performed against two vital enzymes: DNA gyrase and Dihydropteroate synthase. The results of antibacterial abilities showed that the studied synthetic compound had a strong bactericidal effect against all tested bacterial strains, as Gram-negative species were more susceptible to the compound than Gram-positive species. Toxicity results showed that the compound is biocompatible and safe without toxic impact. The molecular docking of the compound showed interactions within the pocket of two enzymes, which are able to stabilize the compound and reveal its antimicrobial activity. Hence, from these results, this study recommends that the established compound could be an outstanding candidate for fighting a broad spectrum of pathogenic bacterial strains, and it might therefore be used for biomedical and pharmaceutical applications.
A New Definition of the Stationary Phase Volume in Mixed-Mode Chromatographic Columns in Hydrophilic Liquid Chromatography
Authors: Jandera Pavel , Hájek Tomáš
Published: August 2021

Polar columns used in the HILIC (Hydrophilic Interaction Liquid Chromatography) systems take up water from the mixed aqueous–organic mobile phases in excess of the water concentration in the bulk mobile phase. The adsorbed water forms a diffuse layer, which becomes a part of the HILIC stationary phase and plays dominant role in the retention of polar compounds. It is difficult to fix the exact boundary between the diffuse stationary and the bulk mobile phase, hence determining the column hold-up volume is subject to errors. Adopting a convention that presumes that the volume of the adsorbed water can be understood as the column stationary phase volume enables unambiguous determination of the volumes of the stationary and of the mobile phases in the column, which is necessary for obtaining thermodynamically correct chromatographic data in HILIC systems. The volume of the aqueous stationary phase, Vex, can be determined experimentally by frontal analysis combined with Karl Fischer titration method, yielding isotherms of water adsorbed on polar columns, which allow direct prediction of the effects of the composition of aqueous–organic mobile phase on the retention in HILIC systems, and more accurate determination of phase volumes in columns and consistent retention data for any mobile phase composition. The n phase volume ratios of 18 columns calculated according to the new phase convention strongly depend on the type of the polar column. Zwitterionic and TSK gel amide and amine columns show especially strong water adsorption.
Electro-Persulfate Processes for the Treatment of Complex Wastewater Matrices: Present and Future
Authors: Fernandes Annabel , Nunes Maria João , Rodrigues Ana Sofia , Pacheco Maria José , Ciríaco Lurdes , Lopes Ana
Published: August 2021

Complex wastewater matrices present a major environmental concern. Besides the biodegradable organics, they may contain a great variety of toxic chemicals, heavy metals, and other xenobiotics. The electrochemically activated persulfate process, an efficient way to generate sulfate radicals, has been widely applied to the degradation of such complex effluents with very good results. This review presents the fundamentals of the electro-persulfate processes, highlighting the advantages and limitations, followed by an exhaustive evaluation on the application of this process for the treatment of complex industrial effluents. An overview of the main relevant experimental parameters/details and their influence on the organic load removal is presented and discussed, having in mind the application of these technologies at an industrial scale. Finally, the future perspectives for the application of the electro-persulfate processes in the treatment of complex wastewater matrices is outlined.
What Is the Mechanism Driving the Reduction of Cardiovascular Events from Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists?—A Mini Review
Authors: Berndt Jared , Ooi Soo Liang , Pak Sok Cheon
Published: August 2021

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are considered the standard of care for type 2 diabetes in many countries worldwide. These molecules have profound anti-hyperglycaemic actions with a favourable safety profile. They are now being considered for their robust cardiovascular (CV) protective qualities in diabetic patients. Most recent CV outcome trials have reported that GLP-1 RAs reduce major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). Furthermore, the GLP-1 RAs seem to target the atherosclerotic CV disease processes preferentially. GLP-1 RAs also improve a wide range of routinely measured surrogate markers associated with CV risk. However, mediation analysis suggests these modest improvements may contribute indirectly to the overall anti-atherogenic profile of the molecules but fall short in accounting for the significant reduction in MACE. This review explores the body of literature to understand the possible mechanisms that contribute to the CV protective profile of GLP-1 RAs.
Synthesis of Novel Methyl 7-[(Hetero)arylamino]thieno[2,3-b]pyrazine-6-carboxylates and Antitumor Activity Evaluation: Effects in Human Tumor Cells Growth, Cell Cycle Analysis, Apoptosis and Toxicity in Non-Tumor Cells
Authors: Rodrigues Juliana M. , Calhelha Ricardo C. , Nogueira António , Ferreira Isabel C. F. R. , Barros Lillian , Queiroz Maria-João R. P.
Published: August 2021

Several novel methyl 7-[(hetero)arylamino]thieno[2,3-b]pyrazine-6-carboxylates were synthesized by Pd-catalyzed C–N Buchwald–Hartwig cross-coupling of either methyl 7-aminothieno[3,2-b]pyrazine-6-carboxylate with (hetero)arylhalides or 7-bromothieno[2,3-b]pyrazine-6-carboxylate with (hetero)arylamines in good-to-excellent yields (50% quantitative yield), using different reaction conditions, namely ligands and solvents, due to the different electronic character of the substrates. The antitumoral potential of these compounds was evaluated in four human tumor cell lines: gastric adenocarcinoma (AGS), colorectal adenocarcinoma (CaCo-2), breast carcinoma (MCF7), and non-small-cell lung carcinoma (NCI-H460) using the SRB assay, and it was possible to establish some structure–activity relationships. Furthermore, they did not show relevant toxicity against a non-tumor cell line culture from the African green monkey kidney (Vero). The most promising compounds (GI50 ≤ 11 µM), showed some selectivity either against AGS or CaCo-2 cell lines without toxicity at their GI50 values. The effects of the methoxylated compounds 2b (2-OMeC6H4), 2f and 2g (3,4- or 3,5-diOMeC6H3, respectively) on the cell cycle profile and induction of apoptosis were further studied in the AGS cell line. Nevertheless, even for the most active (GI50 = 7.8 µM) and selective compound (2g) against this cell line, it was observed that a huge number of dead cells gave rise to an atypical distribution on the cell cycle profile and that these cells were not apoptotic, which points to a different mechanism of action for the AGS cell growth inhibition.