bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Introducing Compressive Residual Stresses into a Stainless-Steel T-Pipe Joint by an Overlay Weld
Authors: Chu Qibao , Kong Xiaofei , Tan Wei
Published: July 2021

Microcracks are always present in the deposited metal of nickel-based alloys and austenitic stainless steels, which affects the safety of the pressure pipes. If compressive stress can be introduced into the cracked position by overlay welding, the time required with ordinary gouging repair welding technology will be significantly reduced, which is practical significance for pressure pipes repair welding. In this work, a stainless-steel T-pipe joint was fabricated using manual metal arc welding with an ER316L wire, and an overlay weld was fabricated using tungsten inert gas arc welding with an ERNiCrFe-7A wire. The overlay thickness was about 10 mm. The contour method was employed to measure the residual stress in the T-pipe joint. The results show that compressive residual stress about 50 MPa is formed in the original ER316L weld, which proves that the residual compressive stress can be obtained in the original weld by surfacing 10 mm thick nickel base alloy on the original weld surface.
Determination of Hot Stamping Friction Coefficient of 7075 Aluminum
Authors: Li Xiangji , Yan Xu , Zhang Zhiqiang , Ren Mingwen , Jia Hongjie
Published: July 2021

Aluminum alloy hot stamping technology can improve the formability of materials and obtain parts with high dimensional accuracy. Friction behavior in the hot stamping process is very important for forming quality. Accurate friction coefficient is helpful to improve the prediction accuracy of forming defects. It is hard to obtain the friction coefficient by simple experiments due to the complicated thermal–mechanical coupling and contact conditions during the hot stamping of aluminum alloys. In order to explore the effect of friction behavior on forming quality, hot stamping experiments of 7075 aluminum alloy U-shaped parts with different lubricants were carried out. The influence of different lubricants on the force–displacement curve, material inflow, surface appearance, and thickness distribution of the formed part was analyzed. The results showed that a good lubrication effect could be obtained with the molybdenum disulfide lubricant. The friction coefficient under different lubrication conditions was obtained by using the inverse problem optimization method. Compared with the experimental results, the determined friction coefficients could accurately predict the force–displacement curves and the thickness distributions of formed parts under different lubrication conditions.
A Comprehensive Review of Micro/Nano Precision Glass Molding Molds and Their Fabrication Methods
Authors: Asgar Md. Ali , Kim Jun , Haq Muhammad Refatul , Kim Taekyung , Kim Seok-min
Published: July 2021

Micro/nano-precision glass molding (MNPGM) is an efficient approach for manufacturing micro/nanostructured glass components with intricate geometry and a high-quality optical finish. In MNPGM, the mold, which directly imprints the desired pattern on the glass substrate, is a key component. To date, a wide variety of mold inserts have been utilized in MNPGM. The aim of this article is to review the latest advances in molds for MNPGM and their fabrication methods. Surface finishing is specifically addressed because molded glass is usually intended for optical applications in which the surface roughness should be lower than the wavelength of incident light to avoid scattering loss. The use of molds for a wide range of molding temperatures is also discussed in detail. Finally, a series of tables summarizing the mold fabrication methods, mold patterns and their dimensions, anti-adhesion coatings, molding conditions, molding methods, surface roughness values, glass substrates and their glass transition temperatures, and associated applications are presented. This review is intended as a roadmap for those interested in the glass molding field.
Manufacture of Hemispherical Shell and Surrounding Eave-Shaped Electrodes
Authors: Wang Renxin , Bai Bing , Zhang Wendong , Cao Huiliang , Liu Jun
Published: July 2021

A hemispherical resonator consists of a hemispherical shell and the surrounding circular electrodes. The asymmetry of a hemispherical shell has influence on the vibrating mode and quality factor. The gap distance from shell to electrode is critical for the capacitance and sensitivity of a hemispherical resonator. To realize a symmetric shell and a small gap, a kind of micro-hemispherical resonator (μHR) structure including sandwich-shaped stacks and eave-shaped electrodes has been developed using a glassblowing process. The blowing process could bring favorable surface roughness and symmetry. The locations of the hemispherical shell and surrounding electrodes can be precisely controlled by the designs of sandwich-shaped stacks and eave-shaped electrodes, making it feasible to realize uniform and small gaps. In addition, electrical insulation between the hemispherical shell and eave-shaped electrodes can be guaranteed owing to eave-shaped structure. The fabrication process and results are demonstrated in detail. Furthermore, an estimation method of shell thickness in a nondestructive manner is proposed, with deviation below 5%. Taking asymmetry, surface roughness, and gap into consideration, these results preliminarily indicate this structure with a hemispherical shell and surrounding eave-shaped electrodes is promising in hemispherical resonator applications.
Multiomics Profiling Reveals Signatures of Dysmetabolism in Urban Populations in Central India
Authors: Monaghan Tanya M. , Biswas Rima N. , Nashine Rupam R. , Joshi Samidha S. , Mullish Benjamin H. , Seekatz Anna M. , Blanco Jesus Miguens , McDonald Julie A. K. , Marchesi Julian R. , Yau Tung on , Christodoulou Niki , Hatziapostolou Maria , Pucic-Bakovic Maja , Vuckovic Frano , Klicek Filip , Lauc Gordan , Xue Ning , Dottorini Tania , Ambalkar Shrikant , Satav Ashish , Polytarchou Christos , Acharjee Animesh , Kashyap Rajpal Singh
Published: July 2021

Background: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) have become a major cause of morbidity and mortality in India. Perturbation of host–microbiome interactions may be a key mechanism by which lifestyle-related risk factors such as tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and physical inactivity may influence metabolic health. There is an urgent need to identify relevant dysmetabolic traits for predicting risk of metabolic disorders, such as diabetes, among susceptible Asian Indians where NCDs are a growing epidemic. Methods: Here, we report the first in-depth phenotypic study in which we prospectively enrolled 218 adults from urban and rural areas of Central India and used multiomic profiling to identify relationships between microbial taxa and circulating biomarkers of cardiometabolic risk. Assays included fecal microbiota analysis by 16S ribosomal RNA gene amplicon sequencing, quantification of serum short chain fatty acids by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, and multiplex assaying of serum diabetic proteins, cytokines, chemokines, and multi-isotype antibodies. Sera was also analysed for N-glycans and immunoglobulin G Fc N-glycopeptides. Results: Multiple hallmarks of dysmetabolism were identified in urbanites and young overweight adults, the majority of whom did not have a known diagnosis of diabetes. Association analyses revealed several host–microbe and metabolic associations. Conclusions: Host–microbe and metabolic interactions are differentially shaped by body weight and geographic status in Central Indians. Further exploration of these links may help create a molecular-level map for estimating risk of developing metabolic disorders and designing early interventions.
Characterization of Weissella viridescens UCO-SMC3 as a Potential Probiotic for the Skin: Its Beneficial Role in the Pathogenesis of Acne Vulgaris
Authors: Espinoza-Monje Marcela , Campos Jorge , Alvarez Villamil Eduardo , Jerez Alonso , Dentice Maidana Stefania , Elean Mariano , Salva Susana , Kitazawa Haruki , Villena Julio , García-Cancino Apolinaria
Published: July 2021

Previously, we isolated lactic acid bacteria from the slime of the garden snail Helix aspersa Müller and selected Weissella viridescens UCO-SMC3 because of its ability to inhibit in vitro the growth of the skin-associated pathogen Cutibacterium acnes. The present study aimed to characterize the antimicrobial and immunomodulatory properties of W. viridescens UCO-SMC3 and to demonstrate its beneficial effect in the treatment of acne vulgaris. Our in vitro studies showed that the UCO-SMC3 strain resists adverse gastrointestinal conditions, inhibits the growth of clinical isolates of C. acnes, and reduces the adhesion of the pathogen to keratinocytes. Furthermore, in vivo studies in a mice model of C. acnes infection demonstrated that W. viridescens UCO-SMC3 beneficially modulates the immune response against the skin pathogen. Both the oral and topical administration of the UCO-SCM3 strain was capable of reducing the replication of C. acnes in skin lesions and beneficially modulating the inflammatory response. Of note, orally administered W. viridescens UCO-SMC3 induced more remarkable changes in the immune response to C. acnes than the topical treatment. However, the topical administration of W. viridescens UCO-SMC3 was more efficient than the oral treatment to reduce pathogen bacterial loads in the skin, and effects probably related to its ability to inhibit and antagonize the adhesion of C. acnes. Furthermore, a pilot study in acne volunteers demonstrated the capacity of a facial cream containing the UCO-SMC3 strain to reduce acne lesions. The results presented here encourage further mechanistic and clinical investigations to characterize W. viridescens UCO-SMC3 as a probiotic for acne vulgaris treatment.
Flavonoid-Inspired Vascular Disrupting Agents: Exploring Flavone-8-Acetic Acid and Derivatives in the New Century
Authors: Gobbi Silvia , Belluti Federica , Rampa Angela , Bisi Alessandra
Published: July 2021

Naturally occurring flavonoids are found as secondary metabolites in a wide number of plants exploited for both medicine and food and have long been known to be endowed with multiple biological activities, making them useful tools for the treatment of different pathologies. Due to the versatility of the scaffolds and the vast possibilities of appropriate decoration, they have also been regarded as fruitful sources of lead compounds and excellent chemical platforms for the development of bioactive synthetic compounds. Flavone-8-acetic acid (FAA) and 5,6-dimethylxanthone acetic acid (DMXAA) emerged for their antitumour potential due to the induction of cytokines and consequent rapid haemorrhagic necrosis of murine tumour vasculature, and different series of derivatives have been designed thereafter. Although the promising DMXAA failed in phase III clinical trials because of strict species-specificity, a boost in research came from the recent identification of the stimulator of interferon genes (STING), responsible for supporting tumoural innate immune responses, as a possible biological target. Consequently, in the last decade a renewal of interest for these flavonoid-based structures was noticed, and novel derivatives have been synthesised and evaluated for a deeper understanding of the molecular features needed for affecting human cells. Undoubtedly, these natural-derived molecules deserve further investigation and still appear attractive in an anticancer perspective.
Pb2+-Containing Metal-Organic Rotaxane Frameworks (MORFs)
Authors: Xia Ting , Yu Zhi-Yong , Gong Han-Yuan
Published: July 2021

The metal-organic rotaxane framework (MORF) structures with the advantage of mechanically interlocking molecules (MIMs) have attracted intense interest from the chemical community. In this study, a set of MORFs (i.e., MORF-Pb-1 and MORF-Pb-2) are constructed using Pb2+, a tetraimidazolium macrocycle (Texas-sized molecular box; 14+), and aromatic dicarboxylate (p-phthalate dianions (PTADAs; 2) or 2,6-naphthalene dicarboxylate dianions (3)) via a one-pot three-layer diffusion protocol. In particular, an unusual Pb…Pb weak interaction was shown in MORF-Pb-1 (charactered with distance of 3.656 Å).
Functional Characterization of Porcine NK-Lysin: A Novel Immunomodulator That Regulates Intestinal Inflammatory Response
Authors: Lin Qian , Fu Qingqing , Chen Daiwen , Yu Bing , Luo Yuheng , Huang Zhiqing , Zheng Ping , Mao Xiangbing , Yu Jie , Luo Junqiu , Yan Hui , He Jun
Published: July 2021

Porcine NK-Lysine (PNKL) is a new antimicrobial peptide (AMP) identified in the small intestine. In this study, PNKL protein was obtained through heterologous expression in Escherichia coli and was estimated by SDS-PAGE at 33 kDa. The antibacterial activities of PNKL were determined using various bacterial strains and showed broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. Furthermore, E. coli K88-challenged IPEC-J2 cells were used to determine PNKL influences on inflammatory responses. Hemolytic assays showed that PNKL had no detrimental impact on cell viability. Interestingly, PNKL elevated the viability of IPEC-J2 cells exposure to E. coli K88. PNKL significantly decreased the cell apoptosis rate, and improved the distribution and abundance of tight junction protein ZO-1 in IPEC-J2 cells upon E. coli K88-challenge. Importantly, PNKL not only down regulated the expressions of inflammatory cytokines such as the IL-6 and TNF-α, but also down regulated the expressions of NF-κB, Caspase3, and Caspase9 in the E. coli K88-challenged cells. These results suggest a novel function of natural killer (NK)-lysin, and the anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of PNKL may allow it a potential substitute for conventionally used antibiotics or drugs.
Preparation of Monoclonal Antibody and Development of Indirect Competitive Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay and Fluorescence-Linked Immunosorbent Assay for Detecting 3-Amino-5-methylmorpholino-2-oxazolidinone (AMOZ) in Edible Animal Tissue
Authors: Xie Yong , Wang Yarong , Yan Xueling , Gan Lu , Le Tao
Published: July 2021

To monitor the illegal used of furaltadone, a highly sensitive indirect competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ic-ELISA) and fluorescence-linked immunosorbent assay (FLISA) based on a monoclonal antibody (mAb) were developed for the detection of 3-amino-5-methylmorpholino-2-oxazolidinone (AMOZ), the major metabolite of furaltadone in animal tissues. The highly specific mAb, which was very sensitive to a nitrophenyl derivative of AMOZ (2-NP-AMOZ) with IC50 values of 0.11 and 0.09 ng/mL for ic-ELISA and FLISA, respectively, was selected for the development of immunoassays. For both the ic-ELISA and FLISA for AMOZ-spiked experiments, acceptable recovery rates of 81.1–105.3% and coefficients of variation of 4.7–9.8% were obtained. In addition, results from both ic-ELISA and FLISA methods for spiked samples’ data showed excellent correlation coefficients ranging from 0.9652 to 0.9927. Meanwhile, the proposed ic-ELISA and FLISA for thirty spiked samples were confirmed by standard LC-MS/MS with high correlation coefficients of 0.9911 and 0.9921, respectively. These results suggest that the developed ic-ELISA and FLISA are valid and cost-effective tools for high-throughput monitoring methods for AMOZ residues in animal tissues.
Characterization of Monochromatic Aberrated Metalenses in Terms of Intensity-Based Moments
Authors: Iftimie Sorina , Răduţă Ana-Maria , Dragoman Daniela
Published: July 2021

Consistent with wave-optics simulations of metasurfaces, aberrations of metalenses should also be described in terms of wave optics and not ray tracing. In this respect, we have shown, through extensive numerical simulations, that intensity-based moments and the associated parameters defined in terms of them (average position, spatial extent, skewness and kurtosis) adequately capture changes in beam shapes induced by aberrations of a metalens with a hyperbolic phase profile. We have studied axial illumination, in which phase-discretization induced aberrations exist, as well as non-axial illumination, when coma could also appear. Our results allow the identification of the parameters most prone to induce changes in the beam shape for metalenses that impart on an incident electromagnetic field a step-like approximation of an ideal phase profile.
Infant and Young Child Feeding Practices among Adolescent Mothers and Associated Factors in India
Authors: Dhami Mansi , Ogbo Felix , Diallo Thierno , Olusanya Bolajoko , Goson Piwuna , Agho Kingsley ,   on behalf of the Global Maternal and Child Health Research Collaboration (GloMACH)
Published: July 2021

Adequate infant and young child feeding (IYCF) improve child survival and growth. Globally, about 18 million babies are born to mothers aged 18 years or less and have a higher likelihood of adverse birth outcomes in India due to insufficient knowledge of child growth. This paper examined factors associated with IYCF practices among adolescent Indian mothers. This cross-sectional study extracted data on 5148 children aged 0–23 months from the 2015–2016 India National Family Health Survey. Survey logistic regression was used to assess factors associated with IYCF among adolescent mothers. Prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding, early initiation of breastfeeding, timely introduction of complementary feeding, minimum dietary diversity, minimum meal frequency, and minimum acceptable diet rates were: 58.7%, 43.8%, 43.3%, 16.6%, 27.4% and 6.8%, respectively. Maternal education, mode of delivery, frequency of antenatal care (ANC) clinic visits, geographical region, child’s age, and household wealth were the main factors associated with breastfeeding practices while maternal education, maternal marital status, child’s age, frequency of ANC clinic visits, geographical region, and household wealth were factors associated with complementary feeding practices. IYCF practices among adolescent mothers are suboptimal except for breastfeeding. Health and nutritional support interventions should address the factors for these indicators among adolescent mothers in India.
Perceived Stress and Increased Food Consumption during the ‘Third Wave’ of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Spain
Authors: Sánchez-Sánchez Eduardo , Díaz-Jimenez Jara , Rosety Ignacio , Alférez Maria José M. , Díaz Antonio Jesús , Rosety Miguel Angel , Ordonez Francisco Javier , Rosety-Rodriguez Manuel
Published: July 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the mental health of people worldwide. An increase in perceived stress can lead to unhealthy behaviors such as increased food consumption. The aim of this study was to find the level of perceived stress and its relationship with increased food consumption during the “third wave” of the COVID-19 pandemic in Spain. This was a cross-sectional study that employed anonline self-reported frequency of consumption questionnaire and the Perceived Stress Scale-10. A total of 637 subjects participated and 83.6% of respondents had moderate or high stress—more prevalent in the female and young respondents. Moreover, 36.1% of respondents reported that they had increased the frequency of consumption of some foods, mainly nuts, snacks, and jellybeans, along with coffee, tea, cocoa, and soft drinks. Eating between meals was more pronounced in those with high stress (65.1%) than in those with moderate stress (40.4%) and low stress (20.2%). Furthermore, the respondents with high stress reported greater weight gain. Thus, the results show that the level of perceived stress during the ‘third wave’ of this pandemic increased food consumption.
Coffee Consumption and the Progression of NAFLD: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sewter Rebecca , Heaney Susan , Patterson Amanda
Published: July 2021

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the leading cause of chronic liver disease in developed countries. Coffee is one of the most consumed beverages in the world and has been shown to be beneficial in limiting progression in chronic liver disease in general. However, research surrounding the impact of coffee consumption on NAFLD progression is limited. This systematic review aimed to investigate the relationship between coffee consumption and the progression of liver disease, specifically for cases of NAFLD. MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, the Cochrane Library, and Scopus were searched for published studies that evaluated the effects of coffee consumption on the progression of NAFLD. The results are presented in a narrative synthesis with principal summary measures, including odds ratios, p-values, and differences in mean coffee intake in relation to severity of NAFLD. Five studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in this review. There was no trial evidence among NAFLD patients, rather all studies were of a cross-sectional design. Using the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Quality Criteria Checklist, four studies received a positive rating, with the remaining study receiving a neutral rating. Overall, four out of the five studies reported a statistically significant relationship between coffee consumption and the severity of fibrosis. Methods around capturing and defining coffee consumption were heterogeneous and therefore an effective dose could not be elucidated. Results suggest that higher coffee consumption is inversely associated with the severity of hepatic fibrosis in individuals with NAFLD. However, further research is required to elucidate the optimum quantity and form/preparation of coffee required to exert this hepatoprotective role.
Mental Health in New Mothers: A Randomised Controlled Study into the Effects of Dietary Flavonoids on Mood and Perceived Quality of Life
Authors: Barfoot Katie Louise , Forster Rachel , Lamport Daniel Joseph
Published: July 2021

The postnatal period is a significant period of physical, physiological and psychological change for mothers, rendering them particularly vulnerable to changes in mood or disorders such as postnatal depression (PND). Previous interventions with foods high in flavonoids have demonstrated beneficial acute and chronic mood effects in healthy child, adolescent and adult populations. It is unclear whether mood effects persist in populations who are potentially at-risk of developing mood disorders, such as postnatal mothers. This exploratory study investigated the effects of a 2-week daily dietary flavonoid intervention on mood (PANAS-NOW), anxiety (STAI), depressive symptoms (PHQ-8) and perceived quality of life (WHOQOL-BREF) in forty-one new mothers in the 0–12-month postnatal period, before and after flavonoid intervention. Mothers either added high flavonoid foods to their daily diet, or did not include additions following a randomised, between-groups, controlled design. Significant effects were observed in the flavonoid group with mothers reporting lower state anxiety and higher perceived quality of physical health at the 2-week timepoint. These findings suggest that regular dietary consumption of flavonoids may benefit mothers’ anxiety and perceived quality of life in the postnatal period. Replication of these results may indicate the potential for dietary flavonoids to promote healthy mood regulation in mothers or prevent the onset or severity of symptoms in postnatal psychological disorders, both of which would be beneficial for women’s health services and public mental health.
Insomnia Prevalence among Italian Night-Shift Nurses
Authors: Ielapi Nicola , Andreucci Michele , Bracale Umberto Marcello , Costa Davide , Bevacqua Egidio , Bitonti Andrea , Mellace Sabrina , Buffone Gianluca , Candido Stefano , Provenzano Michele , Serra Raffaele
Published: July 2021

Background. Insomnia is one of the major health problems related with a decrease in quality of life (QOL) and also in poor functioning in night-shift nurses, that also may negatively affect patients’ care. The aim of this study is to evaluate the prevalence of insomnia in night shift nurses. This observational online web-based survey using Google®® modules specifically aimed to investigate the prevalence and risk factors for insomnia among Italian nurses. Methods. Data collection for this study lasted one month, with the questionnaire available from 1 March 2021 to 1 April 2021. Continuous variables were considered as either mean ± standard deviation (SD) or median and interquartile range (IQR) based on their distribution. Comparison among insomnia categories was assessed by one-way ANOVA or Kruskal–Wallis test according to variable distribution. Categorical variables were analyzed using chi-square test. Results. A total of 2355 responses were included in the final analysis, with 917 from the Northern zone, 815 from the Western zone, and 623 from the Southern zone of Italy. The prevalence of insomnia in the overall population was 65.4% (1524 out 2355 nurses suffered from insomnia). Conclusions. Nursing is a high-pressure profession, with heavy duties and high professional risks. We found an important prevalence of insomnia in night shift nurses, and we hope it may help to solicit further studies aimed to identify the risk factors for this working disorder among nurses.
An Update on Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticle Applications in Nanomedicine
Authors: Rastegari Elham , Hsiao Yu-Jer , Lai Wei-Yi , Lai Yun-Hsien , Yang Tien-Chun , Chen Shih-Jen , Huang Pin-I , Chiou Shih-Hwa , Mou Chung-Yuan , Chien Yueh
Published: July 2021

The efficient and safe delivery of therapeutic drugs, proteins, and nucleic acids are essential for meaningful therapeutic benefits. The field of nanomedicine shows promising implications in the development of therapeutics by delivering diagnostic and therapeutic compounds. Nanomedicine development has led to significant advances in the design and engineering of nanocarrier systems with supra-molecular structures. Smart mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs), with excellent biocompatibility, tunable physicochemical properties, and site-specific functionalization, offer efficient and high loading capacity as well as robust and targeted delivery of a variety of payloads in a controlled fashion. Such unique nanocarriers should have great potential for challenging biomedical applications, such as tissue engineering, bioimaging techniques, stem cell research, and cancer therapies. However, in vivo applications of these nanocarriers should be further validated before clinical translation. To this end, this review begins with a brief introduction of MSNs properties, targeted drug delivery, and controlled release with a particular emphasis on their most recent diagnostic and therapeutic applications.
Cell Membrane-Coated Oil in Water Nano-Emulsions as Biomimetic Nanocarriers for Lipophilic Compounds Conveyance
Authors: Profeta Martina , Di Natale Concetta , Lagreca Elena , Mollo Valentina , Netti Paolo Antonio , Vecchione Raffaele
Published: July 2021

Recently, we developed ultra-stable oil in water nano-emulsions (O/W NEs), able to carry both internal and external cargos (Somes), such as lipophilic compounds and hydrophilic coatings, respectively, that we call here NEsoSomes. O/W NEs are an excellent bioengineering tool for drug and molecules delivery, due to their ability to dissolve a large number of hydrophobic compounds and protect them from hydrolysis and degradation under biological conditions. At present, no report is available on the combination of cell membrane coatings with such nanocarriers, probably due to their typical instability feature. Since then, we have reported, for the first time, a new cell membrane (CM)-coated nanomaterial composed of membranes extracted from glioblastoma cancer cells (U87-MG) deposited on NEsoSomes, through a liquid–liquid interface method, to produce highly controllable membrane caked nano-capsules, namely CM-NEsoSomes. CM-NEsoSomes were physically characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS) over time and their correct morphology was analyzed by confocal and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) microscopy. Moreover, CM-NEsoSomes biocompatibility was tested on the healthy model cell line, performing cell cytotoxicity and uptake assay, showing nanocarriers uptake by cells with no induced cytotoxicity.
Super-Resolution Image Reconstruction Based on Single-Molecule Localization Algorithm
Authors: Liu Lixin , Qi Meijie , Liu Yujie , Xue Xinzhu , Chen Danni , Qu Junle
Published: July 2021

Fluorescence imaging is an important and efficient tool in cell biology and biomedical research. In order to observe the dynamics of biological macromolecules such as DNA, RNA and proteins in live cells, it is extremely necessary to surpass the Abbe diffraction limit in microscopic imaging. Single-molecule localization microscopy (SMLM) is a sort of super-resolution imaging technique that can obtain a large number of images of sparse fluorescent molecules by the use of photoswitchable fluorescent probes and single-molecule localization technology. The center positions of fluorescent molecules in the images are precisely located, and then the entire sample pattern is reconstructed with super resolution. In this paper, we present a single-molecule localization algorithm (SMLA) that is based on blind deconvolution and centroid localization (BDCL) method. Single-molecule localization and image reconstruction of 15,000/9990 frames of original images of tubulins are accomplished. In addition, this fluorophore localization algorithm is used to localize high particle-density images. The results show that our BDCL-SMLA method is a reasonable attempt and useful method for SMLM imaging when the imaging system is unknown.
Recovery of Polyphenolic Fraction from Arabica Coffee Pulp and Its Antifungal Applications
Authors: Sangta Jiraporn , Wongkaew Malaiporn , Tangpao Tibet , Withee Patchareeya , Haituk Sukanya , Arjin Chaiwat , Sringarm Korawan , Hongsibsong Surat , Sutan Kunrunya , Pusadee Tonapha , Sommano Sarana Rose , Cheewangkoon Ratchadawan
Published: July 2021

Coffee pulp is one of the most underutilised by-products from coffee processing. For coffee growers, disposing of this agro-industrial biomass has become one of the most difficult challenges. This study utilised this potential biomass as raw material for polyphenolic antifungal agents. First, the proportion of biomass was obtained from the Arabica green bean processing. The yield of by-products was recorded, and the high-potency biomass was serially extracted with organic solvents for the polyphenol fraction. Quantification of the polyphenols was performed by High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), then further confirmed by mass spectrometry modes of the liquid chromatography–quadrupole time-of-flight (QTOF). Then, the fraction was used to test antifungal activities against Alternaria brassicicola, Pestalotiopsis sp. and Paramyrothecium breviseta. The results illustrated that caffeic acid and epigallocatechin gallate represented in the polyphenol fraction actively inhibited these fungi with an inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 0.09, 0.31 and 0.14, respectively. This study is also the first report on the alternative use of natural biocontrol agent of P. breviseta, the pathogen causing leaf spot in the Arabica coffee.
OMICs, Epigenetics, and Genome Editing Techniques for Food and Nutritional Security
Authors: Gogolev Yuri V. , Ahmar Sunny , Akpinar Bala Ani , Budak Hikmet , Kiryushkin Alexey S. , Gorshkov Vladimir Y. , Hensel Goetz , Demchenko Kirill N. , Kovalchuk Igor , Mora-Poblete Freddy , Muslu Tugdem , Tsers Ivan D. , Yadav Narendra Singh , Korzun Viktor
Published: July 2021

The incredible success of crop breeding and agricultural innovation in the last century greatly contributed to the Green Revolution, which significantly increased yields and ensures food security, despite the population explosion. However, new challenges such as rapid climate change, deteriorating soil, and the accumulation of pollutants require much faster responses and more effective solutions that cannot be achieved through traditional breeding. Further prospects for increasing the efficiency of agriculture are undoubtedly associated with the inclusion in the breeding strategy of new knowledge obtained using high-throughput technologies and new tools in the future to ensure the design of new plant genomes and predict the desired phenotype. This article provides an overview of the current state of research in these areas, as well as the study of soil and plant microbiomes, and the prospective use of their potential in a new field of microbiome engineering. In terms of genomic and phenomic predictions, we also propose an integrated approach that combines high-density genotyping and high-throughput phenotyping techniques, which can improve the prediction accuracy of quantitative traits in crop species.
Preparation, Characterization, and Evaluation of Macrocrystalline and Nanocrystalline Cellulose as Potential Corrosion Inhibitors for SS316 Alloy during Acid Pickling Process: Experimental and Computational Methods
Authors: Toghan Arafat , Gouda Mohamed , Shalabi Kamal , El-Lateef Hany M. Abd
Published: July 2021

Converting low-cost bio-plant residuals into high-value reusable nanomaterials such as microcrystalline cellulose is an important technological and environmental challenge. In this report, nanocrystalline cellulose (NCC) was prepared by acid hydrolysis of macrocrystalline cellulose (CEL). The newly synthesized nanomaterials were fully characterized using spectroscopic and microscopic techniques including FE-SEM, FT-IR, TEM, Raman spectroscopy, and BET surface area. Morphological portrayal showed the rod-shaped structure for NCC with an average diameter of 10–25 nm in thickness as well as length 100–200 nm. The BET surface area of pure CEL and NCC was found to be 10.41 and 27 m2/g, respectively. The comparative protection capacity of natural polymers CEL and NCC towards improving the SS316 alloy corrosion resistance has been assessed during the acid pickling process by electrochemical (OCP, PDP, and EIS), and weight loss (WL) measurements. The outcomes attained from the various empirical methods were matched and exhibited that the protective efficacy of these polymers augmented with the upsurge in dose in this order CEL (93.1%) < NCC (96.3%). The examined polymers display mixed-corrosion inhibition type features by hindering the active centers on the metal interface, and their adsorption followed the Langmuir isotherm model. Surface morphology analyses by SEM reinforced the adsorption of polymers on the metal substrate. The Density Functional Theory (DFT) parameters were intended and exhibited the anti-corrosive characteristics of CEL and NCC polymers. A Monte Carlo (MC) simulation study revealed that CEL and NCC polymers are resolutely adsorbed on the SS316 alloy surface and forming a powerful adsorbed protective layer.
Fabrication, Modification, and Characterization of Lignin-Based Electrospun Fibers Derived from Distinctive Biomass Sources
Authors: Attia Amina Abdel Meguid , Abas Khadiga Mohamed , Ahmed Nada Ahmed Ali , Shouman Mona Abdel Hamid , Šišková Alena Opálková , Mosnáček Jaroslav
Published: July 2021

From the environmental point of view, there is high demand for the preparation of polymeric materials for various applications from renewable and/or waste sources. New lignin-based spun fibers were produced, characterized, and probed for use in methylene blue (MB) dye removal in this study. The lignin was extracted from palm fronds (PF) and banana bunch (BB) feedstock using catalytic organosolv treatment. Different polymer concentrations of either a plasticized blend of renewable polymers such as polylactic acid/polyhydroxybutyrate blend (PLA-PHB-ATBC) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET) as a potential waste material were used as matrices to generate lignin-based fibers by the electrospinning technique. The samples with the best fiber morphologies were further modified after iodine handling to ameliorate and expedite the thermostabilization process. To investigate the adsorption of MB dye from aqueous solution, two approaches of fiber modification were utilized. First, electrospun fibers were carbonized at 500 °C with aim of generating lignin-based carbon fibers with a smooth appearance. The second method used an in situ oxidative chemical polymerization of m-toluidine monomer to modify electrospun fibers, which were then nominated by hybrid composites. SEM, TGA, FT-IR, BET, elemental analysis, and tensile measurements were employed to evaluate the composition, morphology, and characteristics of manufactured fibers. The hybrid composite formed from an OBBL/PET fiber mat has been shown to be a promising adsorbent material with a capacity of 9 mg/g for MB dye removal.
Functional Properties of SAP-Based Humidity Control Plasters
Authors: Fořt Jan , Doleželová Magdaléna , Kočí Václav , Černý Robert
Published: July 2021

The application of materials with high moisture storage capacity close to the interior surface presents a prospective passive method for improving indoor relative humidity conditions. In this paper, lime-cement plasters containing three different types of superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) in varying dosages are introduced and their mechanical, hygric, and thermal characteristics are analyzed in a relation to microstructure. The experimental results show a significant effect of both SAP amount and chemical composition on all functional properties of studied plasters. The incorporation of 1.5% of SAP may induce up to 2.5 better moisture buffering, thus significantly improving the passive humidity control capability. Considering overall functional parameters of SAP-modified plasters, the dosage of 1 wt.% can thus be viewed as a rational compromise between the moisture storage capability and mechanical properties. The obtained wide sets of parameters can be utilized directly as input data of computational models suitable for the assessment of the interior microclimate of residential and administrative buildings.
Characterization of Experimental Short-Fiber-Reinforced Dual-Cure Core Build-Up Resin Composites
Authors: Säilynoja Eija , Garoushi Sufyan , Vallittu Pekka K. , Lassila Lippo
Published: July 2021

As a core build-up material, dual-cured (DC) resin-based composites are becoming popular. The aim of this research was to investigate specific physical and handling properties of new experimental short-fiber-reinforced DC resin composites (SFRCs) in comparison to different commercial, conventional DC materials (e.g., Gradia Core, Rebilda DC, LuxaCore Z, and Visalys® CemCore). Degree of monomer conversion (DC%) was determined by FTIR-spectrometry using either self- or light-curing mode. The flexural strength, modulus, and fracture toughness were calculated through a three-point bending setup. Viscosity was analyzed at room (22 °C) and mouth (35 °C) temperatures with a rotating disk rheometer. The surface microstructure of each resin composite was examined with scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Data were statistically analyzed with analysis of variance ANOVA (p = 0.05). The curing mode showed significant (p < 0.05) effect on the DC% and flexural properties of tested DC resin composites and differences were material dependent. SFRC exhibited the highest fracture toughness (2.3 MPa m1/2) values and LuxaCore showed the lowest values (1 MPa m1/2) among the tested materials (p < 0.05). After light curing, Gradia Core and SFRCs showed the highest flexural properties (p < 0.05), while the other resin composites had comparable values. The novel DC short-fiber-reinforced core build-up resin composite demonstrated super fracture toughness compared to the tested DC conventional resin composites.
Evaluation and Comparison of Mechanical Properties of Polymer-Modified Asphalt Mixtures
Authors: Alsolieman Hamad Abdullah , Babalghaith Ali Mohammed , Memon Zubair Ahmed , Al-Suhaibani Abdulrahman Saleh , Milad Abdalrhman
Published: July 2021

Polymer modification is extensively used in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) because the available asphalt cement does not satisfy the high-temperature requirements. It was widely used in KSA for more than two decades, and there is little information regarding the differences in the performance of different polymers approved for binder modification. Pavement engineers require performance comparisons among various polymers to select the best polymer for modification rather than make their selection based on satisfying binder specifications. Furthermore, the mechanical properties can help select polymer type, producing mixes of better resistance to specific pavement distresses. The study objective was to compare the mechanical properties of the various polymer-modified asphalt (PMA) mixtures that are widely used in the Riyadh region. Control mix and five other mixes with different polymers (Lucolast 7010, Anglomak 2144, Pavflex140, SBS KTR 401, and EE-2) were prepared. PMA mixtures were evaluated through different mechanical tests, including dynamic modulus, flow number, Hamburg wheel tracking, and indirect tensile strength. The results show an improvement in mechanical properties for all PMA mixtures relative to the control mixture. Based on the overall comparison, the asphalt mixture with polymer Anglomk2144 was ranked the best performing mixture, followed by Paveflex140 and EE-2.
Phase Equilibrium and Interdiffusion in Blends of Polystyrene with Polyacrylates
Authors: Nikulova Uliana V. , Chalykh Anatoly E.
Published: July 2021

The solubility and interdiffusion of polystyrene (PS) with polymethyl acrylate (PMA), polyethyl acrylate (PEA), polybutyl acrylate (PBA), and polyethylhexyl acrylate (PEHA) have been studied by the optical interferometry method. Phase state diagrams are plotted. It is shown that they are characterized by the upper critical solution temperatures (UCST), which are localized in the temperature range above 450 K. Pair interaction parameters and their temperature dependences are determined and analyzed. Extrapolation of the temperature dependence of the interaction parameter was used to construct the dome of binodal curves and determine the spinodal curves in the framework of the Flory–Huggins theory. The diffusion coefficients of polystyrene into polyacrylates and polyacrylates into polystyrene are calculated. The dependences of the interdiffusion coefficients on the concentration, temperature, polystyrene molecular weight, and the number of carbons in the side chain of polyacrylate are analyzed. The numerical values of the interdiffusion coefficients of PS-1 into polyacrylates at 433 K change as −8.5 → −6.7 → −6.4 in the homologous series PMA → PEA → PBA. The coefficients of friction are calculated and the effect of change in the matrix structure on the diffusion of polystyrene in them is estimated.
The Influence of Filler Size and Crosslinking Degree of Polymers on Mullins Effect in Filled NR/BR Composites
Authors: Qian Miaomiao , Zou Bo , Chen Zhixiao , Huang Weimin , Wang Xiaofeng , Tang Bin , Liu Qingtao , Zhu Yanchao
Published: July 2021

Two factors, the crosslinking degree of the matrix (ν) and the size of the filler (Sz), have significant impact on the Mullins effect of filled elastomers. Herein, the result. of the two factors on Mullins effect is systematically investigated by adjusting the crosslinking degree of the matrix via adding maleic anhydride into a rubber matrix and controlling the particle size of the filler via ball milling. The dissipation ratios (the ratio of energy dissipation to input strain energy) of different filled natural rubber/butadiene rubber (NR/BR) elastomer composites are evaluated as a function of the maximum strain in cyclic loading (εm). The dissipation ratios show a linear relationship with the increase of εm within the test range, and they depend on the composite composition (ν and Sz). With the increase of ν, the dissipation ratios decrease with similar slope, and this is compared with the dissipation ratios increase which more steeply with the increase in Sz. This is further confirmed through a simulation that composites with larger particle size show a higher strain energy density when the strain level increases from 25% to 35%. The characteristic dependence of the dissipation ratios on ν and Sz is expected to reflect the Mullins effect with mathematical expression to improve engineering performance or prevent failure of rubber products.
Improving the Melt Flow Length of Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene in Thin-Wall Injection Molding by External Induction Heating with the Assistance of a Rotation Device
Authors: Minh Pham Son , Le Minh-Tai
Published: July 2021

In injection molding, the temperature control of the dynamic mold is an excellent method for improving the melt flow length, especially of thin-wall products. In this study, the heating efficiency of a novel heating strategy based on induction heating was estimated. With the use of this heating strategy, a molding cycle time similar to the traditional injection molding process could be maintained. In addition, this strategy makes it easier to carry out the heating step due to the separation of the heating position and the mold structure as well as allowing the ease of magnetic control. The results show that, with an initial mold temperature of 30 °C and a gap (G) between the heating surface and the inductor coil of 5 mm, the magnetic heating process can heat the plate to 290 °C within 5 s. However, with a gap of 15 mm, it took up to 8 s to reach 270 °C. According to the measurement results, when the mold heating time during the molding process increased from 0 to 5 s, the flow length increased significantly from 71.5 to 168.1 mm, and the filling percentage of the thin-wall product also increased from 10.2% to 100%. In general, the application of external induction heating (Ex-IH) during the molding cycle resulted in improved melt flow length with minimal increase in the total cycle time, which remained similar to that of the traditional case.
UPLC-QToF Nanospray MS and NMR Analysis of Ficus sycomorus Stem Bark and Its Effects on Rabbit
Authors: Dawod Ahmed , Fathalla Said I. , Elkhatam Ahmed , Osman Noha , Sheraiba Nagwa , Hammad Mohamed A. , El-Seedi Hesham R. , Shehata Awad A. , Anis Anis
Published: July 2021

In the present study, a phytochemical of Ficus sycomorus (Moraceae family) was screened, and the effect of this extract on rabbit performance indices, immunity, and carcass quality measures was determined. Ficus sycomorus samples were collected, air-dried, and extracted with 70% methanol to prepare a solution of 100 mg/mL concentration. The extract was subjected to high-resolution mass spectrometric measurements via ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight-nanospray mass spectrometry (UPLC-QToF-MS) and 1H NMR analysis. Forty-eight male rabbits, one-month-old, belonging to the Blanc de Bouscat and New Zealand White breeds were selected and distributed equally in a 2 × 3 factorial trial. The rabbits within each breed received F. sycomorus extract at the dose of 0, 100, and 200 mg/kg for 60 days. Blood samples were collected and serum obtained for the detection of liver enzymes, serum lipids, and proteins. The results of UPLC-QToF-MS and molecular networking analysis revealed the presence of procyanidin B2, procyanidin A1, genistein, eriodyctiol, catechin, luteolin, biochanin A, and chlorogenic acid that might exhibit various pharmaceutical activities. However, the F. sycomorus extract reduced rabbit performance indices and carcass quality measures. In addition, this extract significantly depressed the low-density lipoprotein and triglycerides, which may indicate the antidyslipidemia effect of this extract on rabbits.