bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data-Driven Modeling Identifies TIRAP-Independent MyD88 Activation Complex and Myddosome Assembly Strategy in LPS/TLR4 Signaling
Authors: Li Xiang , Zhong Chuan-Qi , Yin Zhiyong , Qi Hong , Xu Fei , He Qingzu , Shuai Jianwei
Published: April 2020

TLR4 complexes are essential for the initiation of the LPS-induced innate immune response. The Myddosome, which mainly contains TLR4, TIRAP, MyD88, IRAK1/4 and TRAF6 proteins, is regarded as a major complex of TLR4. Although the Myddosome has been well studied, a quantitative description of the Myddosome assembly dynamics is still lacking. Furthermore, whether some unknown TLR4 complexes exist remains unclear. In this study, we constructed a SWATH-MS data-based mathematical model that describes the component assembly dynamics of TLR4 complexes. In addition to Myddosome, we suggest that a TIRAP-independent MyD88 activation complex is formed upon LPS stimulation, in which TRAF6 is not included. Furthermore, quantitative analysis reveals that the distribution of components in TIRAP-dependent and -independent MyD88 activation complexes are LPS stimulation-dependent. The two complexes compete for recruiting IRAK1/4 proteins. MyD88 forms higher-order assembly in the Myddosome and we show that the strategy to form higher-order assembly is also LPS stimulation-dependent. MyD88 forms a long chain upon weak stimulation, but forms a short chain upon strong stimulation. Higher-order assembly of MyD88 is directly determined by the level of TIRAP in the Myddosome, providing a formation mechanism for efficient signaling transduction. Taken together, our study provides an enhanced understanding of component assembly dynamics and strategies in TLR4 complexes.
Can NF-κB Be Considered a Valid Drug Target in Neoplastic Diseases? Our Point of View
Authors: Labbozzetta Manuela , Notarbartolo Monica , Poma Paola
Published: April 2020

Multidrug resistance (MDR), of the innate and acquired types, is one of major problems in treating tumor diseases with a good chance of success. In this review, we examine the key role of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) to induce MDR in three tumor models characterized precisely by innate or acquired MDR, in particular triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). We also present different pharmacological approaches that our group have employed to reduce the expression/activation of this transcriptional factor and thus to restore chemo-sensitivity. Finally, we examine the latest scientific evidence found by other groups, the most significant clinical trials regarding NF-κB, and new perspectives on the possibility to consider this transcriptional factor a valid drug target in neoplastic diseases.
Hydrocarbon Signatures of the Ectoparasitoid Sphecophaga vesparum Shows Wasp Host Dependency
Authors: Oi Cintia Akemi , Brown Robert L. , Stevens Ian , Wenseleers Tom
Published: April 2020

Sphecophaga vesparum often parasitizes nests of vespid wasps such as Vespula vulgaris and Vespula germanica. Inside the colonies, the ectoparasitic larvae feed on the immature forms of the wasps. There are two adult forms of S. vesparum. The large, winged adults emerge from either rigid yellow cocoons or the orange cocoons used for overwintering. The small, brachypterous females emerge from soft, white cocoons. The species is facultative deuterotokous, producing mostly parthenogenic females and infrequently producing males. Here, we describe the production of chemical compounds related to the different developmental forms of the parasitoid S. vesparum (larvae, pupae and adults). We also compare the chemical profiles of the parasitoid wasp adults to those of their two main host species, Vespula vulgaris and Vespula germanica. The results show differences in hydrocarbon composition of larvae, pupae and adults of S. vesparum. Our results also suggest a partial mimicry of each of the two host species, mostly relating to linear alkanes present in both parasitoids and the host vespid wasp species. This matching is likely due to the recycling of the prey’s hydrocarbons, as has been found in other species of parasitoids.
Development of an ESMF Based Flexible Coupling Application of ADCIRC and WAVEWATCH III for High Fidelity Coastal Inundation Studies
Authors: Moghimi Saeed , Van der Westhuysen Andre , Abdolali Ali , Myers Edward , Vinogradov Sergey , Ma Zaizhong , Liu Fei , Mehra Avichal , Kurkowski Nicole
Published: April 2020

To enable flexible model coupling in coastal inundation studies, a coupling framework based on the Earth System Modeling Framework (ESMF) and the National Unified Operational Prediction Capability (NUOPC) technologies under a common modeling framework called the NOAA Environmental Modeling System (NEMS) was developed. The framework is essentially a software wrapper around atmospheric, wave and storm surge models that enables its components communicate seamlessly, and efficiently to run in massively parallel environments. For the first time, we are introducing the flexible coupled application of the ADvanced CIRCulation model (ADCIRC) and unstructured fully implicit WAVEWATCH III including NUOPC compliant caps to read Hurricane Weather Research and Forecasting Model (HWRF) generated forcing fields. We validated the coupled application for a laboratory test and a full scale inundation case of the Hurricane Ike, 2008, on a high resolution mesh covering the whole US Atlantic coast. We showed that how nonlinear interaction between surface waves and total water level results in significant enhancements and progression of the inundation and wave action into land in and around the hurricane landfall region. We also presented that how the maximum wave setup and maximum surge regions may happen at the various times and locations depending on the storm track and geographical properties of the landfall area.
Returning Results in the Genomic Era: Initial Experiences of the eMERGE Network
Authors: Wiesner Georgia L. , Kulchak Rahm Alanna , Appelbaum Paul , Aufox Sharon , Bland Sarah T. , Blout Carrie L. , Christensen Kurt D. , Chung Wendy K. , Clayton Ellen Wright , Green Robert C. , Harr Margaret H. , Henrikson Nora , Hoell Christin , Holm Ingrid A. , Jarvik Gail P. , Kullo Iftikhar J. , Lammers Philip E. , Larson Eric B. , Lindor Noralane M. , Marasa Maddalena , F. Myers Melanie , Peterson Josh F. , Prows Cynthia A. , Ralston James D. , Milo Rasouly Hila , Sharp Richard R. , Smith Maureen E. , Van Driest Sara L. , Williams Janet L. , Williams Marc S. , Wynn Julia , Leppig Kathleen A.
Published: April 2020

A goal of the 3rd phase of the Electronic Medical Records and Genomics (eMERGE3) Network was to examine the return of results (RoR) of actionable variants in more than 100 genes to consenting participants and their healthcare providers. Each of the 10 eMERGE sites developed plans for three essential elements of the RoR process: Disclosure to the participant, notification of the health care provider, and integration of results into the electronic health record (EHR). Procedures and protocols around these three elements were adapted as appropriate to individual site requirements and limitations. Detailed information about the RoR procedures at each site was obtained through structured telephone interviews and follow-up surveys with the clinical investigator leading or participating in the RoR process at each eMERGE3 institution. Because RoR processes at each of the 10 sites allowed for taking into account differences in population, disease focus and institutional requirements, significant heterogeneity of process was identified, including variability in the order in which patients and clinicians were notified and results were placed in the EHR. This heterogeneity in the process flow for eMERGE3 RoR reflects the “real world” of genomic medicine in which RoR procedures must be shaped by the needs of the patients and institutional environments.
Can Rock-Rubble Groynes Support Similar Intertidal Ecological Communities to Natural Rocky Shores?
Authors: Holloway Paul , Field Richard
Published: April 2020

Despite the global implementation of rock-rubble groyne structures, there is limited research investigating their ecology, much less than for other artificial coastal structures. Here we compare the intertidal ecology of urban (or semi-urban) rock-rubble groynes and more rural natural rocky shores for three areas of the UK coastline. We collected richness and abundance data for 771 quadrats across three counties, finding a total of 81 species, with 48 species on the groynes and 71 species on the natural rocky shores. We performed three-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) on both richness and abundance data, running parallel analysis for rock and rock-pool habitats. We also performed detrended correspondence analysis on all species to identify patterns in community structure. On rock surfaces, we found similar richness and abundance across structures for algae, higher diversity and abundance for lichen and mobile animals on natural shores, and higher numbers of sessile animals on groynes. Rock-pool habitats were depauperate on groynes for all species groups except for sessile animals, relative to natural shores. Only a slight differentiation between groyne and natural shore communities was observed, while groynes supported higher abundances of some ‘at risk’ species than natural shores. Furthermore, groynes did not differ substantially from natural shores in terms of their presence and abundance of species not native to the area. We conclude that groynes host similar ecological communities to those found on natural shores, but differences do exist, particularly with respect to rock-pool habitats.
Precipitation of Inorganic Salts in Mitochondrial Matrix
Authors: Jasielec Jerzy J. , Filipek Robert , Dołowy Krzysztof , Lewenstam Andrzej
Published: April 2020

In the mitochondrial matrix, there are insoluble, osmotically inactive complexes that maintain a constant pH and calcium concentration. In the present paper, we examine the properties of insoluble calcium and magnesium salts, such as phosphates, carbonates and polyphosphates, which might play this role. We find that non-stoichiometric, magnesium-rich carbonated apatite, with very low crystallinity, precipitates in the matrix under physiological conditions. Precipitated salt acts as pH buffer, and, hence, can contribute in maintaining ATP production in ischemic conditions, which delays irreversible damage to heart and brain cells after stroke.
Polyimide/Ionic Liquid Composite Membranes for Middle and High Temperature Fuel Cell Application: Water Sorption Behavior and Proton Conductivity
Authors: Fatyeyeva Kateryna , Rogalsky Sergiy , Makhno Stanislav , Tarasyuk Oksana , Soto Puente Jorge , Marais Stéphane
Published: April 2020

Four water insoluble room-temperature protic ionic liquids (PILs) based on the N-alkylimidazolium cation with the alkyl chain length from 1 to 4 and bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide anion were synthesized and their chemical structure was confirmed by the 1H NMR and 19F NMR analysis. PILs were revealed to be thermally stable up to 360 and 400 °C. At the same time, the proton conductivity of PILs was found to be dependent mostly on the temperature and, to a less extent, on the type of the cation, i.e., the increase of the conductivity from ~3 × 10−4 S/cm at 25 °C to 2 × 10−2 S/cm at 150 °C was observed. The water vapour sorption capacity of PILs was evaluated as a function of relative humidity and the influence of the alkyl chain length on the phase behaviour in the PIL-water system was discussed. The composite polyimide/PILs membranes were prepared by the PIL immobilization in the porous polymer (Matrimid® 5218) film. The composite membranes showed a high level of proton conductivity (~10−3 S/cm) at elevated temperatures (up to 160 °C). The obtained results reveal that the elaborated composite polyimide/PIL membranes are promising candidates for the application as proton exchange membrane at middle and high temperatures.
Oily Wastewater Treatment Using Polyamide Thin Film Composite Membrane Technology
Authors: Elhady Sarah , Bassyouni Mohamed , Mansour Ramadan A. , Elzahar Medhat H. , Abdel-Hamid Shereen , Elhenawy Yasser , Saleh Mamdou Y.
Published: April 2020

In this study, polyamide (PA) thin film composite (TFC) reverse osmosis (RO) membrane filtration was used in edible oil wastewater emulsion treatment. The PA-TFC membrane was characterized using mechanical, thermal, chemical, and physical tests. Surface morphology and cross-sections of TFCs were characterized using SEM. The effects of edible oil concentrations, average droplets size, and contact angle on separation efficiency and flux were studied in detail. Purification performance was enhanced using activated carbon as a pre-treatment unit. The performance of the RO unit was assessed by chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal and permeate flux. Oil concentration in wastewater varied between 3000 mg/L and 6000 mg/L. Oily wastewater showed a higher contact angle (62.9°) than de-ionized water (33°). Experimental results showed that the presence of activated carbon increases the permeation COD removal from 94% to 99%. The RO membrane filtration coupled with an activated carbon unit of oily wastewater is a convenient hybrid technique for removal of high-concentration edible oil wastewater emulsion up to 99%. Using activated carbon as an adsorption pre-treatment unit improved the permeate flux from 34 L/m2hr to 75 L/m2hr.
Applicability of Hybrid Built-Up Wide Flange Steel Beams
Authors: Ju Hyunjin , Lee Se-Jung , Choi Sung-Mo , Kim Jong R. , Lee Deuckhang
Published: April 2020

To accommodate growing demands on either heavy steel structures or unique buildings with irregular configurations, built-up wide-flange steel (BWS) beams are being popularly used in modern steel construction. In current fabrication practices of BWS members, high-performance steels produced in steelmaking factories under the thermo-mechanical control process (TMCP) are typically utilized to achieve proper welding performances. However, since its basic unit price is quite higher than typical hot-rolled steel materials, this study introduced a hybrid BWS section for cost saving with no performance degradation, where high-performance TMCP steel was used in flanges, and conventional hot-rolled steel was adopted in web plate. To verify the tensile performances of a hybrid BWS section with non-uniform properties, split T tension and Charpy impact tests were conducted, and flexural tests were also carried out on hybrid and homogeneous BWS beam members. On this basis, it was confirmed that the structural performance of the hybrid BWS member is comparable with that of the conventional one with a uniform section property.
Insight to the Influence of Ti Addition on the Strain-Induced Martensitic Transformation in a High (about 7 wt.%) Mn Stainless Steel
Authors: Sadeghpour Saeed , Javaheri Vahid , Kermanpur Ahmad , Kömi Jukka
Published: April 2020

The kinetics of strain-induced martensite (SIM) formation in a Ti-bearing 201L stainless steel were evaluated and compared to the existing results of two conventional stainless steel grades; i.e., 201L and 304L AISI. The effects of strain rate and rolling pass reduction on the kinetics of SIM formation during cold rolling were investigated. The Ti-microalloying was found to be intensifying the transformation due to lowering the stacking fault energy. It was seen that decreasing the rolling pass reduction strongly affected the variation of SIM volume fraction. Furthermore, a close correlation between the hardness and strain-induced transformation was found arising from microstructural evolution during the cold rolling process. Three stages in the hardening behavior were detected associated with lath-type martensite formation, transition stage of martensite laths break up and formation of dislocation-cell-type martensite.
Investigation of Thermophysical Properties of Three Barrel Steels
Authors: Koniorczyk Piotr , Zmywaczyk Janusz , Dębski Andrzej , Zieliński Mateusz , Preiskorn Marek , Sienkiewicz Judyta
Published: April 2020

In this paper, thermal diffusivity and heat capacity measurements were performed for three types of barrel steel, 38HMJ (1.8509), 30HN2MFA, and duplex (1.4462). Thermal diffusivity tests as a function of temperature were performed in the range of room temperature (RT) to 500 °C, and specific heat in the range of RT to 1000 °C. All tests were carried out using NETZSCH specialized measuring stands: LFA 467 light flash apparatus and DSC 404 F1 Pegasus differential scanning calorimeter. In the measurements of thermal diffusivity, the reference material Inconel 600 was used. This made it possible to determine thermal conductivity and specific heat as a function of the temperature of barrel steel. The results of specific heat tests of the 38HMJ and the 30HN2MFA steels show a ferrite–austenite phase transition in the 750–810 °C temperature range. This transition was not observed in the duplex steel.
Effect of the Microsegregation on Martensitic and Bainitic Reactions in a High Carbon-High Silicon Cast Steel
Authors: Basso Alejandro Daniel , Toda-Caraballo Isaac , Eres-Castellanos Adriana , San-Martin David , Jimenez José Antonio , Caballero Francisca G.
Published: April 2020

Casting processes show some weaknesses. A particular problem is presented when the workpiece needs to be subjected to heat treatments to achieve a desired microstructure. This problem arises from the microsegregation phenomena typically present in cast parts. The effect of the microsegregation on the martensitic and bainitic transformations has been investigated in a high carbon-high silicon cast steel, with the approximate composition Fe-0.8C-2Si-1Mn-1Cr (in wt. %), which was poured into 25 mm keel block-shaped sand molds. The microsegregation maps of Cr, Si, and Mn characterized by electron probe microanalysis (EPMA) show that interdendritic regions are enriched while dendrites are impoverished in these elements, implying that their partition coefficients are lower that the unity (k < 1). As-quenched martensitic and austempered bainitic microstructures (at 230 °C) were obtained and analyzed after applying an austenitization heat treatment at 920 °C (holding for 60 min). The thermal etching method used to reveal the prior austenite grain size showed a bimodal grain size distribution, with larger grains in the dendritic regions (≈22.4 µm) than in the interdendritic ones (≈6.4 µm). This is likely due to both the microsegregation and the presence of small undissolved cementite precipitates. Electron Backscatter Diffraction (EBSD) analysis carried out on the martensitic microstructure do not unveil any differences in misorientation distribution frequency and block size between the dendritic and interdendritic zones related to the microsegregation and bimodality of the austenite grain size. On the contrary, the bainitic transformation starts earlier (incubation time of 80 min), proceeds faster and bainitic ferrite plates are longer in the dendritic zones, were prior austenite grains are larger and impoverish in solute. The presence of these microsegregation pattern leads to the non-uniform development of the bainitic reaction in cast parts, modifying its kinetics and the resulting microstructures, which would probably have a major impact on the mechanical properties.
Finite Element Analysis on Ultrasonic Drawing Process of Fine Titanium Wire
Authors: Liu Shen , Shan Xiaobiao , Cao Hengqiang , Xie Tao
Published: April 2020

Ultrasonic drawing is a new technology to reduce the cross-section of a metallic tube, wire or rod by pulling through vibrating dies. The addition of ultrasound is beneficial for reducing the drawing force and enhancing the surface finish of the drawn wire, but the underlying mechanism has not been fully understood. In this paper, an axisymmetric finite element model of the single-pass ultrasonic drawing was established in commercial FEM software based on actual wire length. The multi-linear kinematic hardening (MKINH) model was used to define the elastic and plastic characteristics of titanium. Influences of ultrasonic vibration on the drawing process were investigated in terms of four factors: location of the die, ultrasonic amplitude, drawing velocity, and friction coefficient within the wire-die contact zone. Mises stresses, as well as contact and friction stress, in conventional and ultrasonic drawing conditions, were compared. The results show that larger ultrasonic amplitude and lower drawing velocity contribute to greater drawing force reduction, which agrees with former research. However, their effectiveness is further influenced by the location of the die. When ultrasonic amplitude and drawing speed remain unchanged, the drawing force is minimized when the die locates at the half-wavelength position, while maximized at the quarter-wavelength position.
Effects of B on the Segregation Behavior of Mo at the Fe–Cr(111)/Cr2O3(0001) Interface: A First-Principles Study
Authors: Zhang Yanlu , Zhang Caili , Zhang Zhuxia , Dong Nan , Wang Jian , Liu Ying , Lei Zhibo , Han Peide
Published: April 2020

The addition of B can inhibit the precipitation of σ phases at the grain boundary to improve the hot workability and corrosion resistance for super austenitic stainless steel with high Cr and Mo content. This study focused on the interaction between B and Mo at the Fe–Cr(111)/Cr2O3(0001) interface and its effect on interfacial adhesion by employing the first-principles method, especially the effect of B on the segregation behavior of Mo. The most stable O-terminated Fe/Cr2O3 interface was chosen as the basic configuration. The segregation energy and the work of separation were calculated for the metal/chromia interface with Fe–Cr as the substrate. It has been demonstrated that B can promote the diffusion of Mo atoms into the oxide layer to increase the content of Mo in the passive film. In addition, the interfacial adhesion is higher at the most segregated sites. However, it is more difficult for two or more Mo atoms than a single Mo atom to diffuse into the oxide part with the effect of B, indicating that B can only improve the Mo content of the passive film to a small extent. The electronic properties were also further discussed to analyze the interactions and the binding characters between doped atoms and their surrounding atoms and to explain the underlying reasons for the variation of interfacial adhesion.
Effect of Substitutional Elements on the Thermodynamic and Electrochemical Properties of Mechanically Alloyed La1.5Mg0.5Ni7−xMx alloys (M = Al, Mn)
Authors: Nowak Marek , Balcerzak Mateusz , Jurczyk Mieczyslaw
Published: April 2020

The A2B7-type La-Mg-Ni-M-based (M = Al, Mn) intermetallic compounds were produced by mechanical alloying and annealing. The thermodynamic and electrochemical properties of these materials were studied. The nickel substitution by aluminum and manganese in the La-Mg-Ni system improves the kinetics of hydrogen absorption. The hydrogen desorption capacity of Mn substituted compounds is improved significantly, and it reaches the value of 1.79 wt.% at 303 K when the composition is La1.5Mg0.5Ni6.80Mn0.20. On the other hand, the La1.5Mg0.5Ni6.85Al0.15 shows a much higher reversible electrochemical capacity than the La1.5Mg0.5Ni7 materials at the 50th cycle. The electrochemical discharge capacity stability increases with the increasing value of Al and Mn up to x = 0.2 and 0.3, respectively. Additionally, a reduction in the discharge capacity was measured for the Al and Mn content above x = 0.25 and 0.5, respectively. From the practical aspect, only La1.5Mg0.5Ni6.80Mn0.20 has a potential in the application as a hydrogen storage material.
Comparison of Dynamic Light Scattering and Rheometrical Methods to Determine the Gel Point of a Radically Polymerized Hydrogel under Mechanical Shear
Authors: Kohl Katinka
Published: April 2020

The phase transition of nanocomposite hydrogels made of N-isopropylacrylamide (NIPAm) and clay (Laponite® XLS) was investigated under mechanical shear influencing the gelation. The hydrogels were synthesized by free radical polymerization. For the processing of cross-linked gels, the phase transition (liquid–solid) and its dependence on mechanical stress are of paramount importance. On the one hand, the determination of the gel point (tg) is possible with rheometry and, on the other hand, with dynamic light scattering (DLS). With rotational rheometry, by identifying the abrupt increase of viscosity, the gel point is evaluated. The DSL is an alternative method to rheometry, to investigate hydrogels under the action of the shear flow, to make results comparable to the rheometric investigations, with and without shear. Experimental parameters were chosen based on preparatory work to obtain comparable results regarding the determination of the gel point of a radically polymerized NIPAm hydrogel.
Revealing Fungal Communities in Alpine Wetlands through Species Diversity, Functional Diversity and Ecological Network Diversity
Authors: Xie Fei , Ma Anzhou , Zhou Hanchang , Liang Yu , Yin Jun , Ma Ke , Zhuang Xuliang , Zhuang Guoqiang
Published: April 2020

The biodiversity of fungi, which are extremely important in maintaining the ecosystem balance in alpine lakeside wetlands, has not been fully studied. In this study, we investigated the fungal communities of three lakeside wetlands from different altitudes in the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau and its edge. The results showed that the fungi of the alpine lakeside wetland had higher species diversity. Functional annotation of fungi by FUNGild software showed that saprophytic fungi were the most abundant type in all three wetlands. Further analysis of the microbial phylogenetic molecular ecological network (pMEN) showed that saprophytic fungi are important species in the three wetland fungal networks, while symbiotic fungi and pathotrophic fungi have different roles in the fungal networks in different wetlands. Community diversity was high in all three lakeside wetlands, but there were significant differences in the composition, function and network structure of the fungal communities. Contemporary environmental conditions (soil properties) and historical contingencies (geographic sampling location) jointly determine fungi community diversity in this study. These results expand our knowledge of fungal biodiversity in the alpine lakeside wetlands.
Characterization of a Sequential UV Photolysis-Biodegradation Process for Treatment of Decabrominated Diphenyl Ethers in Sorbent/Water Systems
Authors: Chang Yi-Tang , Chao Wei-Liang , Chen Hsin-Yu , Li Hui , Boyd Stephen A.
Published: April 2020

Decabrominated diphenyl ether (BDE-209) is a primary component of the brominated flame retardants used in a variety of industrial and domestic applications. BDE-209 bioaccumulates in aquatic organisms and has been identified as an emerging contaminant that threatens human and ecosystem health. Sequential photolysis-microbial biodegradation processes were utilized here to treat BDE-209 in clay- or soil-water slurries. The removal efficiency of BDE-209 in the clay-water slurries was high; i.e., 96.5%, while that in the soil-water slurries was minimal. In the clay-water slurries the first order rate constants for the UV photolysis and biodegradation of BDE-209 were 0.017 1/day and 0.026 1/day, respectively. UV wavelength and intensity strongly influenced the BDE-209 photolysis and the subsequent biodegradation of photolytic products. Facultative chemotrophic bacteria, including Acidovorax spp., Pseudomonas spp., Novosphingobium spp. and Sphingomonas spp., were the dominant members of the bacterial community (about 71%) at the beginning of the biodegradation; many of these organisms have previously been shown to biodegrade BDE-209 and other polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) congeners. The Achromobacter sp. that were isolated (NH-2; NH-4; NH-6) were especially effective during the BDE-209 degradation. These results indicated the effectiveness of the sequential UV photolysis and biodegradation for treating certain BDE-209-contaminated solids; e.g., clays; in bioreactors containing such solids as aqueous slurries. Achieving a similar treatment effectiveness for more heterogeneous solids containing natural organic matter, e.g., surface solids, appears to be significantly more difficult. Further investigations are needed in order to understand the great difference between the clay-water or soil-water slurries.
Supported Ultra-Thin Alumina Membranes with Graphene as Efficient Interference Enhanced Raman Scattering Platforms for Sensing
Authors: Aguilar-Pujol Montserrat , Ramírez-Jiménez Rafael , Xifre-Perez Elisabet , Cortijo-Campos Sandra , Bartolomé Javier , Marsal Lluis F. , de Andrés Alicia
Published: April 2020

The detection of Raman signals from diluted molecules or biomaterials in complex media is still a challenge. Besides the widely studied Raman enhancement by nanoparticle plasmons, interference mechanisms provide an interesting option. A novel approach for amplification platforms based on supported thin alumina membranes was designed and fabricated to optimize the interference processes. The dielectric layer is the extremely thin alumina membrane itself and, its metallic aluminum support, the reflecting medium. A CVD (chemical vapor deposition) single-layer graphene is transferred on the membrane to serve as substrate to deposit the analyte. Experimental results and simulations of the interference processes were employed to determine the relevant parameters of the structure to optimize the Raman enhancement factor (E.F.). Highly homogeneous E.F. over the platform surface are obtained, typically 370 ± (5%), for membranes with ~100 nm pore depth, ~18 nm pore diameter and the complete elimination of the Al2O3 bottom barrier layer. The combined surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) and interference amplification is also demonstrated by depositing ultra-small silver nanoparticles. This new approach to amplify the Raman signal of analytes is easily obtained, low-cost and robust with useful enhancement factors (~400) and allows only interference or combined enhancement mechanisms, depending on the analyte requirements.
Fabrication of Nanoyttria by Method of Solution Combustion Synthesis
Authors: Gizowska Magdalena , Piątek Milena , Perkowski Krzysztof , Konopka Gustaw , Witosławska Irena
Published: April 2020

In the work the research on properties of an yttria nanopowder obtained by solution combustion synthesis (SCS) in terms of its application in ceramic technology is presented. In order to characterize the SCS reaction the decomposition of yttrium nitrate, glycine and their solution was investigated using differential thermal analysis coupled with FT-IR spectrometry of the gases emitted during the measurements. The product obtained in the SCS process was characterized in terms of its microstructure, particle size distribution and BET specific surface. Although the obtained powders showed nanoscaled structures, only after calcination at a temperature of 1100 °C nanosized particles were revealed. The calcined powder occurred in an agglomerated state (cumulants mean Zave = 1.3 µm). After milling particle size was successfully decreased to Zave = 0.28 µm. The deagglomerated powder was isostatically densified and tested for sintering ability. The obtained nanopowder showed very high sintering activity as the shrinkage onset was detected already at a temperature of about 1150 °C.
α-Synuclein Oligomer Detection with Aptamer Switch on Reduced Graphene Oxide Electrode
Authors: Jang Seung Joo , Lee Chang-Seuk , Kim Tae Hyun
Published: April 2020

Protein aggregation of alpha-synuclein (α-Syn) is implicated in Parkinson’s disease (PD), and, thus, α-Syn aggregates are a potentially promising candidate biomarker for PD diagnosis. Here, we describe a simple and sensitive electrochemical sensor to monitor the aggregation of α-Syn for early PD diagnosis. The sensor utilizes methylene blue (MB)-tagged aptamer (Apt) adsorbed on electrochemically reduced graphene oxide (ERGO) by π–π stacking. The binding of α-Syn oligomer to the Apt induces desorption of the Apt from the ERGO surface, which leads to the electrochemical signal change. The resulting sensor allowed the highly sensitive and selective detection of α-Syn oligomer according to the voltammetric change. Under optimized conditions, the linear range of detection was observed to be from 1 fM to 1 nM of the α-Syn oligomer and the limit of detection (LOD) was estimated to be 0.64 fM based on S/N = 3. The sensor also showed good reproducibility and stability, enabling real sample analysis of the α-Syn oligomer in human blood serum. With its ultrasensitivity and good performance for α-Syn oligomer detection, the sensor provides one promising tool for the early diagnosis of PD.
Coulomb Blockade Effect in Well-Arranged 2D Arrays of Palladium Nano-Islands for Hydrogen Detection at Room Temperature: A Modeling Study
Authors: Khaje Mahdi , Sedghi Hassan , Goudarzi Hadi , Ahmadi Mohammad Taghi , Rahimian Koloor Seyed Saeid , Petrů Michal
Published: April 2020

The fast growth of hydrogen usage as a clean fuel in civil applications such as transportation, space technology, etc. highlights the importance of the reliable detection of its leakage and accumulation under explosion limit by sensors with a low power consumption at times when there is no accumulation of hydrogen in the environment. In this research, a new and efficient mechanism is presented for hydrogen detection—using the Coulomb blockade effect in a well-arranged 2D array of palladium nano-islands—which can operate at room temperature. We demonstrated that under certain conditions of size distribution and the regularity of palladium nano-islands, with selected sizes of 1.7, 3 and 6.1 nm, the blockade threshold will appear in current-voltage (IV) characteristics. In reality, it will be achieved by the inherent uncertainty in the size of the islands in nano-scale fabrication or by controlling the size of nanoparticles from 1.7 to 6.1 nm, considering a regular arrangement of nanoparticles that satisfies single-electron tunneling requirements. Based on the simulation results, the threshold voltage is shifted towards lower ones due to the expansion of Pd nanoparticles exposed to the environment with hydrogen concentrations lower than 2.6%. Also, exploring the features of the presented structure as a gas sensor, provides robustness against the Gaussian variation in nano-islands sizes and temperature variations. Remarkably, the existence of the threshold voltage in the IV curve and adjusting the bias voltage below this threshold leads to a drastic reduction in power consumption. There is also an improvement in the minimum detectable hydrogen concentration as well as the sensor response.
The Intrinsic Biological Identities of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles and Their Coatings: Unexplored Territory for Combinatorial Therapies
Authors: Mulens-Arias Vladimir , Rojas José Manuel , Barber Domingo F.
Published: April 2020

Over the last 20 years, iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) have been the subject of increasing investigation due to their potential use as theranostic agents. Their unique physical properties (physical identity), ample possibilities for surface modifications (synthetic identity), and the complex dynamics of their interaction with biological systems (biological identity) make IONPs a unique and fruitful resource for developing magnetic field-based therapeutic and diagnostic approaches to the treatment of diseases such as cancer. Like all nanomaterials, IONPs also interact with different cell types in vivo, a characteristic that ultimately determines their activity over the short and long term. Cells of the mononuclear phagocytic system (macrophages), dendritic cells (DCs), and endothelial cells (ECs) are engaged in the bulk of IONP encounters in the organism, and also determine IONP biodistribution. Therefore, the biological effects that IONPs trigger in these cells (biological identity) are of utmost importance to better understand and refine the efficacy of IONP-based theranostics. In the present review, which is focused on anti-cancer therapy, we discuss recent findings on the biological identities of IONPs, particularly as concerns their interactions with myeloid, endothelial, and tumor cells. Furthermore, we thoroughly discuss current understandings of the basic molecular mechanisms and complex interactions that govern IONP biological identity, and how these traits could be used as a stepping stone for future research.
Pistachio Shell-Derived Carbon Activated with Phosphoric Acid: A More Efficient Procedure to Improve the Performance of Li–S Batteries
Authors: Benítez Almudena , Morales Julián , Caballero Álvaro
Published: April 2020

A sustainable and low-cost lithium–sulfur (Li–S) battery was produced by reusing abundant waste from biomass as a raw material. Pistachio shell was the by-product from the agri-food industry chosen to obtain activated carbon with excellent textural properties, which acts as a conductive matrix for sulfur. Pistachio shell-derived carbon activated with phosphoric acid exhibits a high surface area (1345 m2·g−1) and pore volume (0.67 cm3·g−1), together with an interconnected system of micropores and mesopores that is capable of accommodating significant amounts of S and enhancing the charge carrier mobility of the electrochemical reaction. Moreover, preparation of the S composite was carried out by simple wet grinding of the components, eliminating the usual stage of S melting. The cell performance was very satisfactory, both in long-term cycling measurements and in rate capability tests. After the initial cycles required for cell stabilization, it maintained good capacity retention for the 300 cycles measured (the capacity loss was barely 0.85 mAh·g−1 per cycle). In the rate capability test, the capacity released was around 650 mAh·g−1 at 1C, a higher value than that supplied by other activated carbons from nut wastes.
Enhancement of Birefringence in Reduced Graphene Oxide Doped Liquid Crystal
Authors: Bharath Kumar Mareddi , Awwal Adeshina Mohammad , Kang Daekyung , Jee Youngho , Kim Taewan , Choi Muhan , Park Jonghoo
Published: April 2020

We investigated the effect of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) doping on the birefringence of 5CB liquid crystal (LC). The characteristics of the synthesized rGO and LC-rGO composite with different rGO concentrations were analyzed by atomic force microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, white light polarized microscopy, voltage-dependent transmission measurement, and differential scanning calorimetry. We found that doping LC with an appropriate concentration of rGO enhances the birefringence of the LC. This is mainly due to the improved anisotropy of polarizability, which stems from the high shape anisotropy of rGO. However, the aggregation of rGO reduces the birefringence by decreasing the anisotropy of polarizability as well as the order parameter. Our study shows the promising potential of LC-rGO for developing various electro-optic devices that offer improved electro-optic effects.
Three-Dimensional (3D) Printed Silver Nanoparticles/Alginate/Nanocrystalline Cellulose Hydrogels: Study of the Antimicrobial and Cytotoxicity Efficacy
Authors: Bergonzi Carlo , Remaggi Giulia , Graiff Claudia , Bergamonti Laura , Potenza Marianna , Ossiprandi Maria Cristina , Zanotti Ilaria , Bernini Franco , Bettini Ruggero , Elviri Lisa
Published: April 2020

Here, a formulation of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and two natural polymers such as alginate (ALG) and nanocrystalline cellulose (CNC) was developed for the 3D printing of scaffolds with large surface area, improved mechanical resistance and sustained capabilities to promote antimicrobial and cytotoxic effects. Mechanical resistance, water content, morphological characterization and silver distribution of the scaffolds were provided. As for applications, a comparable antimicrobial potency against S. aureus and P. aeruginosa was demonstrated by in vitro tests as function of the AgNP concentration in the scaffold (Minimal Inhibitory Concentration value: 10 mg/mL). By reusing the 3D system the antimicrobial efficacy was demonstrated over at least three applications. The cytotoxicity effects caused by administration of AgNPs to hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cell culture through ALG and ALG/CNC scaffold were discussed as a function of time and dose. Finally, the liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) technique was used for targeted analysis of pro-apoptotic initiation and executioner caspases, anti-apoptotic and proliferative proteins and the hepatocyte growth factor, and provided insights about molecular mechanisms involved in cell death induction.
Analogous Diamondene Nanotube Structure Prediction Based on Molecular Dynamics and First-Principle Calculations
Authors: Zhou Xin , Cai Haifang , Hu Chunwei , Shi Jiao , Li Zongli , Cai Kun
Published: April 2020

A concentric twin tube (CTT) can be built by placing a carbon nanotube (CNT) in another identical CNT. Different from diamondene nanotubes, a stable CTT has no inter-shell covalent bond. As a prestressed double-walled nanotube, CTT has a lower structural stability at a finite temperature. According to the molecular dynamics and first-principle calculations, (a) CTTs have three types of relaxed configurations. In a type III CTT, the inner tube buckles to produce a V-shaped cross-section, and the outer tube may be convex or concave. (b) The minimal radii of relaxed zigzag and armchair CTTs with concave outer tubes were found. (c) After relaxation, the circumferences and areas of the two tubes in a type III CTT are different from those of the corresponding ideal CNT. The area change rate (A-CR) and circumference change rate (C-CR) of the outer tube are the first-order Gaussian function of the radius of the ideal CNT (which forms the CTT), and tends to be 73.3% of A-CR or 95.3% of C-CR, respectively. For the inner tube of a CTT, the A-CR is between 29.3% and 37.0%, and the C-CR is close to 95.8%. (d) The temperature slightly influences the findings given above.
Modeling and Electrochemical Characterization of Electrodes Based on Epoxy Composite with Functionalized Nanocarbon Fillers at High Concentration
Authors: Cataldo Antonino , Biagetti Giorgio , Mencarelli Davide , Micciulla Federico , Crippa Paolo , Turchetti Claudio , Pierantoni Luca , Bellucci Stefano
Published: April 2020

This paper deals with the electrochemical characterization and the equivalent circuit modeling of screen-printed electrodes, modified by an epoxy composite and loaded with carbon nanotubes (CNTs), pristine and functionalized NH2, and graphene nanoplates (GNPs). The fabrication method is optimized in order to obtain a good dispersion even at high concentration, up to 10%, to increase the range of investigation. Due to the rising presence of filler on the surface, the cyclic voltammetric analysis shows an increasing of (i) electrochemical response and (ii) filler concentration as observed by the scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Epoxy/CNTs-NH2 and epoxy/GNPs, at 10% of concentration, show the best electrochemical behavior. Furthermore, epoxy/CNTs-NH2 show a lower percolation threshold than epoxy/CNT, probably due to the direct bond created by amino groups. Furthermore, the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) is used to obtain an electrical equivalent circuit (EEC). The EEC model is a remarkable evolution of previous circuits present in the literature, by inserting an accurate description of the capacitive/inductive/resistive characteristics, thus leading to an enhanced knowledge of phenomena that occur during electrochemical processes.
On Facing the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) with Combination of Nanomaterials and Medicine: Possible Strategies and First Challenges
Authors: Sivasankarapillai Vishnu Sankar , Pillai Akhilash M. , Rahdar Abbas , Sobha Anumol P. , Das Sabya Sachi , Mitropoulos Athanasios C. , Mokarrar Mahboobeh Heidari , Kyzas George Z.
Published: April 2020

Global health is facing the most dangerous situation regarding the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome called coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which is widely known as the abbreviated COVID-19 pandemic. This is due to the highly infectious nature of the disease and its possibility to cause pneumonia induced death in approximately 6.89% of infected individuals (data until 27 April 2020). The pathogen causing COVID-19 is called severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), which is believed to be originated from the Wuhan Province in China. Unfortunately, an effective and approved vaccine for SARS-CoV-2 virus is still not available, making the situation more dangerous and currently available medical care futile. This unmet medical need thus requires significant and very urgent research attention to develop an effective vaccine to address the SARS-CoV-2 virus. In this review, the state-of-the-art drug design strategies against the virus are critically summarized including exploitations of novel drugs and potentials of repurposed drugs. The applications of nanochemistry and general nanotechnology was also discussed to give the status of nanodiagnostic systems for COVID-19.
Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet and Chronic Disease in Australia: National Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey Analysis
Authors: Aridi Yasmine S. , Walker Jacqueline L. , Roura Eugeni , Wright Olivia R. L.
Published: April 2020

The Mediterranean diet (MD) is linked to decreased risk of chronic disease, such as cardiovascular disease, obesity, hypertension, diabetes mellitus and cognitive disease. Given the health promoting aspects of this diet, we conducted a secondary analysis of data from the National Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey (NNPAS), which is the largest health study in Australia and the first nutrition-specific national-based study. The primary aim of this analysis was to determine the proportion of Australian adults adhering to the MD and to examine the association between adherence to the MD and markers of noncommunicable diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus and chronic kidney disease. Out of the 9435 participants included in the study (mean age = 48.6 ± 17.6 years), 65% were in the middle tertile of the MD score. Participants who were married, employed, of a high-socioeconomic level, nonsmokers, educated and had a healthy body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference were more likely to have higher adherence levels to the MD, which was associated with lower diastolic blood pressure (p < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that, even after accounting for all possible confounders, higher adherence to the MD was associated with lower risk of dyslipidaemia, OR = 1.06 (1.01–1.10). In conclusion, this analysis is the first to assess adherence to the MD on a national level. Our results indicated that MD adherence may contribute to reducing the prevalence of dyslipidaemia, cerebrovascular disease and elevated blood pressure in a multi-ethnic, non-Mediterranean country.