bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Current Strategies for Tracheal Replacement: A Review
Authors: Damiano Giuseppe , Palumbo Vincenzo Davide , Fazzotta Salvatore , Curione Francesco , Lo Monte Giulia , Brucato Valerio Maria Bartolo , Lo Monte Attilio Ignazio
Published: June 2021

Airway cancers have been increasing in recent years. Tracheal resection is commonly performed during surgery and is burdened from post-operative complications severely affecting quality of life. Tracheal resection is usually carried out in primary tracheal tumors or other neoplasms of the neck region. Regenerative medicine for tracheal replacement using bio-prosthesis is under current research. In recent years, attempts were made to replace and transplant human cadaver trachea. An effective vascular supply is fundamental for a successful tracheal transplantation. The use of biological scaffolds derived from decellularized tissues has the advantage of a three-dimensional structure based on the native extracellular matrix promoting the perfusion, vascularization, and differentiation of the seeded cell typologies. By appropriately modulating some experimental parameters, it is possible to change the characteristics of the surface. The obtained membranes could theoretically be affixed to a decellularized tissue, but, in practice, it needs to ensure adhesion to the biological substrate and/or glue adhesion with biocompatible glues. It is also known that many of the biocompatible glues can be toxic or poorly tolerated and induce inflammatory phenomena or rejection. In tissue and organ transplants, decellularized tissues must not produce adverse immunological reactions and lead to rejection phenomena; at the same time, the transplant tissue must retain the mechanical properties of the original tissue. This review describes the attempts so far developed and the current lines of research in the field of tracheal replacement.
Comparison of the Intestinal Microbiome of Italian Patients with Multiple Sclerosis and Their Household Relatives
Authors: Galluzzo Paola , Capri Fanny Claire , Vecchioni Luca , Realmuto Sabrina , Scalisi Luca , Cottone Salvatore , Nuzzo Domenico , Alduina Rosa
Published: June 2021

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic immune-mediated disease of the central nervous system, caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. In recent years, a role in MS pathogenesis was assigned to the gut microbiota. However, different signatures of gut dysbiosis have been shown to depend on environmental factors, like diet and lifestyle. In this study, we compared the gut microbiome in MS patients and their household healthy relatives sharing lifestyle and environmental factors. Faecal metagenomic DNA was extracted and the V3–V4 regions of the conserved bacterial 16S ribosomal RNA gene were amplified and sequenced. While overall bacterial communities were similar, specific families differed between healthy and MS subjects. We observed an increase in Ruminococcaceae, Christensenellaceae, Desulfovibrionaceae, Clostridiales, and Family XIII in MS patients, while Bacteroidaceae, Tannerellaceae, Veillonellaceae, and Burkholderiaceae were more abundant in healthy controls. In addition, principle coordinate analysis showed that the gut microbiome of all MS patients formed a cluster being less diverse than the household relatives and that gut microbiota of MS patients with EDSS 4.5–7 formed a distinct cluster in respect to their controls. Overall, our study is consistent with the hypothesis that MS patients have gut microbial dysbiosis and evidenced the importance of environmental factors in shaping the gut microbiome.
The Specificities of Elite Female Athletes: A Multidisciplinary Approach
Authors: Castanier Carole , Bougault Valérie , Teulier Caroline , Jaffré Christelle , Schiano-Lomoriello Sandrine , Vibarel-Rebot Nancy , Villemain Aude , Rieth Nathalie , Le-Scanff Christine , Buisson Corinne , Collomp Katia
Published: June 2021

Female athletes have garnered considerable attention in the last few years as more and more women participate in sports events. However, despite the well-known repercussions of female sex hormones, few studies have investigated the specificities of elite female athletes. In this review, we present the current but still limited data on how normal menstrual phases, altered menstrual phases, and hormonal contraception affect both physical and cognitive performances in these elite athletes. To examine the implicated mechanisms, as well as the potential performances and health risks in this population, we then take a broader multidisciplinary approach and report on the causal/reciprocal relationships between hormonal status and mental and physical health in young (18–40 years) healthy females, both trained and untrained. We thus cover the research on both physiological and psychological variables, as well as on the Athlete Biological Passport used for anti-doping purposes. We consider the fairly frequent discrepancies and summarize the current knowledge in this new field of interest. Last, we conclude with some practical guidelines for eliciting improvements in physical and cognitive performance while minimizing the health risks for female athletes.
Bonding of Al6061 by Hot Compression Forming: A Computational and Experimental Study of Interface Conditions at Bonded Surfaces
Authors: Mittelman Brigit , Ben-Haroush Michael , Aloush Ira , Mordechay Linoy , Priel Elad
Published: June 2021

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in composite components, which may be designed to provide enhanced mechanical and physical effective properties. One of the methods available to produce such components is joining by plastic deformation, which results in metallurgical bonding at the interface. However, the portions of the interface that are bonded and the inhomogeneity in the bonding strength achieved at the interface tend to be overlooked. In the present study, Al6061 beams were bonded, by hot compression (300–500 °C) to different degrees of reduction. The compression was followed by tensile debonding experiments and the revealed interface was microscopically characterized in order to determine the areas that were metallurgically bonded. The SEM characterization revealed that the actual bonded area is much smaller than the interface contact area. Thermo-mechanical finite element models of the compression stage were used to investigate the thermo-mechanical fields, which develop along the interface and influence the resulting bonding strength. The principal strain field patterns across the interface area were shown to be similar to the experimentally observed temperature-dependent bonding patterns. In addition, a quantitative criterion for bonding quality was implemented and shown to correlate with the experimental findings.
Properties and Applications of Nanoparticles from Plant Proteins
Authors: Reddy Narendra , Rapisarda Marco
Published: June 2021

Nanoparticles from plant proteins are preferred over carbohydrates and synthetic polymeric-based materials for food, medical and other applications. In addition to their large availability and relatively low cost, plant proteins offer higher possibilities for surface modifications and functionalizing various biomolecules for specific applications. Plant proteins also avoid the immunogenic responses associated with the use of animal proteins. However, the sources of plant proteins are very diverse, and proteins from each source have distinct structures, properties and processing requirements. While proteins from corn (zein) and wheat (gliadin) are soluble in aqueous ethanol, most other plant proteins are insoluble in aqueous conditions. Apart from zein and gliadin nanoparticles (which are relatively easy to prepare), soy proteins, wheat glutenin and proteins from several legumes have been made into nanoparticles. The extraction of soluble proteins, hydrolyzing with alkali and acids, conjugation with other biopolymers, and newer techniques such as microfluidization and electrospraying have been adopted to develop plant protein nanoparticles. Solid, hollow, and core-shell nanoparticles with varying sizes and physical and chemical properties have been developed. Most plant protein nanoparticles have been used as carriers for drugs and as biomolecules for controlled release applications and for stabilizing food emulsions. This review provides an overview of the approaches used to prepare nanoparticles from plant proteins, and their properties and potential applications. The review’s specific focus is on the preparation methods and applications, rather than the properties of the proteins, which have been reported in detail in other publications.
The Peter Day Series of Magnetic (Super)Conductors
Authors: Benmansour Samia , Gómez-García Carlos J.
Published: June 2021

Here, we review the different series of (super)conducting and magnetic radical salts prepared with organic donors of the tetrathiafulvalene (TTF) family and oxalato-based metal complexes (ox = oxalate = C2O42−). Although most of these radical salts have been prepared with the donor bis(ethylenedithio)tetrathiafulvalene (BEDT-TTF = ET), we also include all the salts prepared with other TTF-type donors such as tetrathiafulvalene (TTF), tetramethyl-tetrathiafulvalene (TM-TTF), bis(ethylenediseleno)tetrathiafulvalene (BEST), bis(ethylenedithio)tetraselenafulvalene (BETS) and 4,5-bis((2S)-2-hydroxypropylthio)-4′,5′-(ethylenedithio)tetrathiafulvalene (DMPET). Most of the oxalate-based complexes are monomers of the type [MIII(C2O4)3]3−, [Ge(C2O4)3]2− or [Cu(C2O4)2]2−, but we also include the reported salts with [Fe2(C2O4)5]4− dimers, [MII(H2O)2[MIII(C2O4)3]2]4− trimers and homo- or heterometallic extended 2D layers such as [MIIMIII(C2O4)3]− and [MII2(C2O4)3]2−. We will present the different structural families and their magnetic properties (such as diamagnetism, paramagnetism, antiferromagnetism, ferromagnetism and even long-range magnetic ordering) that coexist with interesting electrical properties (such as semiconductivity, metallic conductivity and even superconductivity). We will focus on the electrical and magnetic properties of the so-called Day series formulated as β″-(BEDT-TTF)4[A+MIII(C2O4)3]·G, which represents the largest family of paramagnetic metals and superconductors reported to date, with more than fifty reported examples.
Efficient Algorithm for the Computation of the Solution to a Sparse Matrix Equation in Distributed Control Theory
Authors: Pedroso Leonardo , Batista Pedro
Published: June 2021

In this short communication, an algorithm for efficiently solving a sparse matrix equation, which arises frequently in the field of distributed control and estimation theory, is proposed. The efficient algorithm stems from the fact that the sparse equation at hand can be reduced to a system of linear equations. The proposed algorithm is shown to require significantly fewer floating point operations than the state-of-the-art solution. The proposed solution is applied to a real-life example, which models a wide range of industrial processes. The experimental results show that the solution put forward allows for a significant increase in efficiency in relation to the state-of-the-art solution. The significant increase in efficiency of the presented algorithm allows for a valuable widening of the applications of distributed estimation and control.
Gottlieb Polynomials and Their q-Extensions
Authors: ErkuŞ-Duman Esra , Choi Junesang
Published: June 2021

Since Gottlieb introduced and investigated the so-called Gottlieb polynomials in 1938, which are discrete orthogonal polynomials, many researchers have investigated these polynomials from diverse angles. In this paper, we aimed to investigate the q-extensions of these polynomials to provide certain q-generating functions for three sequences associated with a finite power series whose coefficients are products of the known q-extended multivariable and multiparameter Gottlieb polynomials and another non-vanishing multivariable function. Furthermore, numerous possible particular cases of our main identities are considered. Finally, we return to Khan and Asif’s q-Gottlieb polynomials to highlight certain connections with several other known q-polynomials, and provide its q-integral representation. Furthermore, we conclude this paper by disclosing our future investigation plan.
Herd Behavior in Venture Capital Market: Evidence from China
Authors: Zhang Ruijun , Yang Xiaotong , Li Nian , Khan Muhammad Asif
Published: June 2021

This paper aims to empirically analyze the herd behavior in the VC market in the context of China, including the existence, causes and consequences of herding among venture capitalists. For our empirical analysis, we first construct a herding measure and confirm the existence of herd behavior in the Chinese VC market. Then, we perform OLS/logit regression to examine the causes and consequences of herding among venture capitalists. Our results suggest that herd behavior in the venture capital market are driven by positive signals of essential information and a higher degree of information uncertainty. However, we find no evidence of the influence of feedback trading signals on herding among venture capitalists. Further analysis suggests that a better external information environment would help weaken the herding among venture capitalists, while their reputation concerns might amplify the herding effect. Finally, we examine the economic consequence of the herding and find that the herd behavior of venture capitalists would have an adverse effect on their exit performance. In addition to the enrichment and development of herding theory, our study also provides an essential theoretical frame and policy implications for the steady growth of the venture capital market in emerging economies.
A Study on Fuzzy Order Bounded Linear Operators in Fuzzy Riesz Spaces
Authors: Guirao Juan Luis García , Iqbal Mobashir , Bashir Zia , Rashid Tabasam
Published: June 2021

This paper aims to study fuzzy order bounded linear operators between two fuzzy Riesz spaces. Two lattice operations are defined to make the set of all bounded linear operators as a fuzzy Riesz space when the codomain is fuzzy Dedekind complete. As a special case, separation property in fuzzy order dual is studied. Furthermore, we studied fuzzy norms compatible with fuzzy ordering (fuzzy norm Riesz space) and discussed the relation between the fuzzy order dual and topological dual of a locally convex solid fuzzy Riesz space.
Solid-Phase Extraction Embedded Dialysis (SPEED), an Innovative Procedure for the Investigation of Microbial Specialized Metabolites
Authors: Mai Phuong-Y. , Le Goff Géraldine , Poupon Erwan , Lopes Philippe , Moppert Xavier , Costa Bernard , Beniddir Mehdi A. , Ouazzani Jamal
Published: June 2021

Solid-phase extraction embedded dialysis (SPEED technology) is an innovative procedure developed to physically separate in-situ, during the cultivation, the mycelium of filament forming microorganisms, such as actinomycetes and fungi, and the XAD-16 resin used to trap the secreted specialized metabolites. SPEED consists of an external nylon cloth and an internal dialysis tube containing the XAD resin. The dialysis barrier selects the molecular weight of the trapped compounds, and prevents the aggregation of biomass or macromolecules on the XAD beads. The external nylon promotes the formation of a microbial biofilm, making SPEED a biofilm supported cultivation process. SPEED technology was applied to the marine Streptomyces albidoflavus 19-S21, isolated from a core of a submerged Kopara sampled at 20 m from the border of a saltwater pond. The chemical space of this strain was investigated effectively using a dereplication strategy based on molecular networking and in-depth chemical analysis. The results highlight the impact of culture support on the molecular profile of Streptomyces albidoflavus 19-S21 secondary metabolites.
Exploitation of Marine Molecules to Manage Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Silva Marisa , Seijas Paula , Otero Paz
Published: June 2021

Neurodegenerative diseases are sociosanitary challenges of today, as a result of increased average life expectancy, with Alzheimer’s disease being one of the most prevalent. This pathology is characterized by brain impairment linked to a neurodegenerative process culminating in cognitive decline and behavioral disorders. Though the etiology of this pathology is still unknown, it is usually associated with the appearance of senile plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. The most used prophylaxis relies on anticholinesterase drugs and NMDA receptor antagonists, whose main action is to relieve symptoms and not to treat or prevent the disease. Currently, the scientific community is gathering efforts to disclose new natural compounds effective against Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative pathologies. Marine natural products have been shown to be promising candidates, and some have been proven to exert a high neuroprotection effect, constituting a large reservoir of potential drugs and nutraceutical agents. The present article attempts to describe the processes of extraction and isolation of bioactive compounds derived from sponges, algae, marine bacteria, invertebrates, crustaceans, and tunicates as drug candidates against AD, with a focus on the success of pharmacological activity in the process of finding new and effective drug compounds.
Open Reduction in Subtrochanteric Femur Fractures Is Not Accompanied by a Higher Rate of Complications
Authors: Knauf Tom , Eschbach Daphne , Buecking Benjamin , Knobe Matthias , Barthel Juliane , Rascher Katherine , Ruchholtz Steffen , Aigner Rene , Schoeneberg Carsten ,   on behalf of the Registry for German Trauma DGU
Published: June 2021

Backgroundand Objectives: Hip fractures are among the most typical geriatric fractures. Subtrochanteric fractures are considered difficult to treat, and, to date, there is no consensus on the optimal surgical treatment. Materialisand Methods: We analyzed data from the Registry for Geriatric Trauma, which includes patients ≥ 70 years old with hip fractures or periprosthetic fractures requiring surgery (21,734 patients in 2017–2019). For this study, we analyzed only the subgroup of patients with a subtrochanteric fracture. We analyzed the difference between closed and open surgical methods on a range of outcomes, including mortality, mobility, length of acute hospital stay, and the need for surgical revisions. Results: A total of 506 patients with subtrochanteric fractures were analyzed in this study. The median age was 85 years (interquartile range of 81–89). About 21.1% (n = 107) were operated on with a closed technique, 73.3% (n = 371) with open reduction without using a cerclage, and 5.53% (n = 28) with open reduction with the additional use of one or more cerclage wires. A total of 3.56% (n = 18) of the patients had complications requiring operative revision, most commonly soft tissue interventions (open vs. closed reduction—3.26% vs. 4.67%) (p = 0.687). Patients treated with open reduction were significantly more mobile 7 days after surgery (p = 0.008), while no significant effects on mortality (p = 0.312), length of hospital stay (p = 0.968), or surgical complications (p = 0.687) were found. Conclusion: Proper reduction is the gold standard practice for successful union in subtrochanteric fractures. This study shows that open reduction is not associated with a higher complication rate but does lead to increased mobility 7 days after operation. Therefore, in case of doubt, a good reduction should be aimed for, even using open techniques.
Analysis of the Clinical Course of Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis in Paediatric Population—Single Center Study
Authors: Wiecek Sabina , Wojtyniak Alicja , Pindur Barbara , Machnikowska-Sokołowska Magdalena , Gruszczyńska Katarzyna , Grzybowska-Chlebowczyk Urszula
Published: June 2021

Background and Objectives: Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a rare cholestatic disease of the liver of unknown etiology, severe course and poor prognosis. PSC most often co-occurs with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), especially with ulcerative colitis (UC). The aim of the study was the analysis of the clinical course of primary sclerosing cholangitis in children, hospitalized in the Gastroenterology Unit in Katowice. Materials and Methods: The analysis included 30 patients, aged from 7 to 18 years, 21/30 boys (70%) and 9/30 girls (30%), diagnosed with PSC in the years 2009–2019. The analysis included the age at diagnosis, clinical symptoms, course of the disease, coexisting diseases, laboratory and imaging results, and complications. Results: The average age at diagnosis was 13 years. 22/30 (73.3%) patients suffered from UC, 4/30 (13.3%) were diagnosed with Crohn’s disease (CD), 2/30 (6.66%) with Eosinophilic Colitis (EC). 2/30 patients (6.66%) had no clinical evidence of coexistent IBD to date. In addition, 7/30 (23.3%) had an overlap syndrome of primary sclerosing cholangitis/autoimmune hepatitis. When PSC was detected before IBD (6/30–20%), patients had complications more often compared to those diagnosed with IBD first or PSC and IBD at the same time. At the moment of diagnosis 6/30 (20%) patients presented with abdominal pain, which was the most common symptom, 3/30 (10%) jaundice, while 17/30 (56.6%) were asymptomatic but had abnormal results of the laboratory tests. Conclusions: Monitoring liver markers in IBD patients is important since most PSC cases are asymptomatic and their elevation might be the first sign of the disease. Patients diagnosed with PSC before IBD diagnosis are more likely to have a more aggressive course of the disease.
Polymer–Ceramic Composite Membranes for Water Removal in Membrane Reactors
Authors: Juarez Ester , Lasobras Javier , Soler Jaime , Herguido Javier , Menéndez Miguel
Published: June 2021

Methanol can be obtained through CO2 hydrogenation in a membrane reactor with higher yield or lower pressure than in a conventional packed bed reactor. In this study, we explore a new kind of membrane with the potential suitability for such membrane reactors. Silicone–ceramic composite membranes are synthetized and characterized for their capability to selectively remove water from a mixture containing hydrogen, CO2, and water at temperatures typical for methanol synthesis. We show that this membrane can achieve selective permeation of water under such harsh conditions, and thus is an alternative candidate for use in membrane reactors for processes where water is one of the products and the yield is limited by thermodynamic equilibrium.
Valorization of Goat Cheese Whey through an Integrated Process of Ultrafiltration and Nanofiltration
Authors: Macedo Antónia , Azedo David , Duarte Elizabeth , Pereira Carlos
Published: June 2021

Goat cheese whey is a co-product that comes from goat cheese manufacture. Due to its high organic load, adequate treatment is necessary before its disposal. Additionally, the recent growing interest in caprine products, attributed to their specific nutritional and nutraceutical characteristics, such as the lower allergenicity of their proteins and higher content of oligosaccharides, compared with bovine products, made the recovery of goat cheese whey a challenge. In this study, an integrated process for the recovery of sweet goat whey components was carried out. It includes filtration, centrifugation and pasteurization, followed by sequential membrane processes, ultrafiltration/dilution, nanofiltration of ultrafiltration permeates in dilution mode and the concentration/dilution of nanofiltration retentates. Ultrafiltration was performed with membranes of 10 and 1 kDa. Membranes of 10 kDa have higher permeate fluxes and, in a single stage of dilution, allowed for better protein retention and higher lactose purity, with a separation factor of 14. The concentration of lactose by nanofiltration/dilution led to the retention of almost all the lactose in retentates and to a final permeate, whose application in cheese dairy plants will allow for the total recovery of whey. The application of this integrated process in small- or medium-sized goat cheese dairies can represent an important contribution to their sustainability.
On the Coupling between Mechanical Properties and Electrostatics in Biological Membranes
Authors: Galassi Vanesa Viviana , Wilke Natalia
Published: June 2021

Cell membrane structure is proposed as a lipid matrix with embedded proteins, and thus, their emerging mechanical and electrostatic properties are commanded by lipid behavior and their interconnection with the included and absorbed proteins, cytoskeleton, extracellular matrix and ionic media. Structures formed by lipids are soft, dynamic and viscoelastic, and their properties depend on the lipid composition and on the general conditions, such as temperature, pH, ionic strength and electrostatic potentials. The dielectric constant of the apolar region of the lipid bilayer contrasts with that of the polar region, which also differs from the aqueous milieu, and these changes happen in the nanometer scale. Besides, an important percentage of the lipids are anionic, and the rest are dipoles or higher multipoles, and the polar regions are highly hydrated, with these water molecules forming an active part of the membrane. Therefore, electric fields (both, internal and external) affects membrane thickness, density, tension and curvature, and conversely, mechanical deformations modify membrane electrostatics. As a consequence, interfacial electrostatics appears as a highly important parameter, affecting the membrane properties in general and mechanical features in particular. In this review we focus on the electromechanical behavior of lipid and cell membranes, the physicochemical origin and the biological implications, with emphasis in signal propagation in nerve cells.
Short-Circuit Current in Polymeric Membrane-Based Thermocells: An Experimental Study
Authors: Barragán V. María
Published: June 2021

Thermocells are non-isothermal electrochemical cells used to convert thermal energy into electricity. In a thermocell, together with the ion flux, heat is also transferred, which can reduce the temperature gradient and thus the delivered electric current. A charged membrane used as a separating barrier in the electrolyte liquid could reduce this problem. Therefore, the use of ion-exchange membranes has been suggested as an alternative in terms of thermoelectricity because of their high Seebeck coefficient. Ion transfer occurs not only at the liquid solution but also at the solid membrane when a temperature gradient is imposed. Thus, the electric current delivered by the thermocell will also be highly dependent on the membrane system properties. In this work, a polymeric membrane-based thermocell with 1:1 alkali chloride electrolytes and reversible Ag|AgCl electrodes at different temperatures is studied. This work focuses on the experimental relation between the short-circuit current density and the temperature difference. Short-circuit current is the maximum electric current supplied by a thermocell and is directly related to the maximum output electrical power. It can therefore provide valuable information on the thermocell efficiency. The effect of the membrane, electrolyte nature and hydrodynamic conditions is analysed from an experimental point of view.
Recovery of Copper and Magnetite from Copper Slag Using Concentrated Solar Power (CSP)
Authors: Fernández-González Daniel , Prazuch Janusz , Ruiz-Bustinza Íñigo , González-Gasca Carmen , Gómez-Rodríguez Cristian , Verdeja Luis
Published: June 2021

On the one hand, copper slag is nowadays a waste in copper pyrometallurgy despite the significant quantities of iron (>40 wt. %) and copper (1 to 2 wt. %). On the other hand, solar energy, when properly concentrated, offers great potential in high-temperature processes. Therefore, concentrated solar power (CSP) could be used in the treatment of copper slag to transform fayalite into magnetite and copper sulfides and oxides into copper nodules. This is the objective of this paper. The results show that fayalite was partially decomposed into magnetite and silica. Moreover, copper nodules (65–85 wt. % Cu) were identified in the treated samples, while the initial slag, analyzed by X-ray diffraction, X-ray fluorescence, and SEM-EDX, did not show the presence of metallic copper. Finally, the treated copper slag was crushed and grinded down to 40 μm, and two fractions were obtained by magnetic separation. The magnetic fraction (85%) was mainly comprised of magnetite, while the non-magnetic fraction (15%) had 5–10 wt. % Cu. Considering the experimental results, 7.5–18 kg Cu/t slag might be recovered from the slag. A preliminary economic analysis, considering the current copper price, indicates that only the recovery of copper could represent a significant economic benefit (>30 €/t slag). Therefore, CSP might be a potential candidate for the treatment of copper slag to recover copper and iron.
Wettability in Metal Matrix Composites
Authors: Malaki Massoud , Fadaei Tehrani Alireza , Niroumand Behzad , Gupta Manoj
Published: June 2021

Metal matrix composites (MMCs) have been developed in response to the enormous demand for special industrial materials and structures for automotive and aerospace applications, wherein both high-strength and light weight are simultaneously required. The most common, inexpensive route to fabricate MMCs or metal matrix nanocomposites (MMNCs) is based on casting, wherein reinforcements like nanoceramics, -carbides, -nitrides, elements or carbon allotropes are added to molten metal matrices; however, most of the mentioned reinforcements, especially those with nanosized reinforcing particles, have usually poor wettability with serious drawbacks like particle agglomerations and therefore diminished mechanical strength is almost always expected. Many research efforts have been made to enhance the affinity between the mating surfaces. The aim in this paper is to critically review and comprehensively discuss those approaches/routes commonly employed to boost wetting conditions at reinforcement-matrix interfaces. Particular attention is paid to aluminum matrix composites owing to the interest in lightweight materials and the need to enhance the mechanical properties like strength, wear, or creep resistance. It is believed that effective treatment(s) may enormously affect the wetting and interfacial strength.
Investigation of 3.3 kV 4H-SiC DC-FSJ MOSFET Structures
Authors: Chen Chia-Yuan , Lai Yun-Kai , Lee Kung-Yen , Huang Chih-Fang , Huang Shin-Yi
Published: June 2021

This research proposes a novel 4H-SiC power device structure—different concentration floating superjunction MOSFET (DC-FSJ MOSFET). Through simulation via Synopsys Technology Computer Aided Design (TCAD) software, compared with the structural and static characteristics of the traditional vertical MOSFET, DC-FSJ MOSFET has a higher breakdown voltage (BV) and lower forward specific on-resistance (Ron,sp). The DC-FSJ MOSFET is formed by multiple epitaxial technology to create a floating P-type structure in the epitaxial layer. Then, a current spreading layer (CSL) is added to reduce the Ron,sp. The floating P-type structure depth, epitaxial layer concentration and thickness are optimized in this research. This structure can not only achieve a breakdown voltage over 3300 V, but also reduce Ron,sp. Under the same conditions, the Baliga Figure of Merit (BFOM) of DC-FSJ MOSFET increases by 27% compared with the traditional vertical MOSFET. Ron,sp is 25% less than that of the traditional vertical MOSFET.
Principles for Controlling the Shape Recovery and Degradation Behavior of Biodegradable Shape-Memory Polymers in Biomedical Applications
Authors: Lee Junsang , Kang Seung-Kyun
Published: June 2021

Polymers with the shape memory effect possess tremendous potential for application in diverse fields, including aerospace, textiles, robotics, and biomedicine, because of their mechanical properties (softness and flexibility) and chemical tunability. Biodegradable shape memory polymers (BSMPs) have unique benefits of long-term biocompatibility and formation of zero-waste byproducts as the final degradable products are resorbed or absorbed via metabolism or enzyme digestion processes. In addition to their application toward the prevention of biofilm formation or internal tissue damage caused by permanent implant materials and the subsequent need for secondary surgery, which causes secondary infections and complications, BSMPs have been highlighted for minimally invasive medical applications. The properties of BSMPs, including high tunability, thermomechanical properties, shape memory performance, and degradation rate, can be achieved by controlling the combination and content of the comonomer and crystallinity. In addition, the biodegradable chemistry and kinetics of BSMPs, which can be controlled by combining several biodegradable polymers with different hydrolysis chemistry products, such as anhydrides, esters, and carbonates, strongly affect the hydrolytic activity and erosion property. A wide range of applications including self-expending stents, wound closure, drug release systems, and tissue repair, suggests that the BSMPs can be applied as actuators on the basis of their shape recovery and degradation ability.
Cancer Cell Direct Bioprinting: A Focused Review
Authors: Lobo David Angelats , Ginestra Paola , Ceretti Elisabetta , Miquel Teresa Puig , Ciurana Joaquim
Published: June 2021

Three-dimensional printing technologies allow for the fabrication of complex parts with accurate geometry and less production time. When applied to biomedical applications, two different approaches, known as direct or indirect bioprinting, may be performed. The classical way is to print a support structure, the scaffold, and then culture the cells. Due to the low efficiency of this method, direct bioprinting has been proposed, with or without the use of scaffolds. Scaffolds are the most common technology to culture cells, but bioassembly of cells may be an interesting methodology to mimic the native microenvironment, the extracellular matrix, where the cells interact between themselves. The purpose of this review is to give an updated report about the materials, the bioprinting technologies, and the cells used in cancer research for breast, brain, lung, liver, reproductive, gastric, skin, and bladder associated cancers, to help the development of possible treatments to lower the mortality rates, increasing the effectiveness of guided therapies. This work introduces direct bioprinting to be considered as a key factor above the main tissue engineering technologies.
Machine Learning Approach Reveals the Assembly of Activated Sludge Microbiome with Different Carbon Sources during Microcosm Startup
Authors: Kim Youngjun , Park Sangeun , Oh Seungdae
Published: June 2021

Activated sludge (AS) microcosm experiments usually begin with inoculating a bioreactor with an AS mixed culture. During the bioreactor startup, AS communities undergo, to some extent, a distortion in their characteristics (e.g., loss of diversity). This work aimed to provide a predictive understanding of the dynamic changes in the community structure and diversity occurring during aerobic AS microcosm startups. AS microcosms were developed using three frequently used carbon sources: acetate (A), glucose (G), and starch (S), respectively. A mathematical modeling approach quantitatively determined that 1.7–2.4 times the solid retention time (SRT) was minimally required for the microcosm startups, during which substantial divergences in the community biomass and diversity (33–45% reduction in species richness and diversity) were observed. A machine learning modeling application using AS microbiome data could successfully (>95% accuracy) predict the assembly pattern of aerobic AS microcosm communities responsive to each carbon source. A feature importance analysis pinpointed specific taxa that were highly indicative of a microcosm feed source (A, G, or S) and significantly contributed for the ML-based predictive classification. The results of this study have important implications on the interpretation and validity of microcosm experiments using AS.
Combined Ultrahigh Pressure Extraction and High-Speed Counter-Current Chromatography for Separation and Purification of Three Glycoside Compounds from Dendrobium officinale Protocorm
Authors: Zhang Wei , Zhang Yingjie , Wang Jinying , Duan Wenjuan , Liu Feng
Published: June 2021

As an alternative to Dendrobium candidum, protocorm-like bodies (PLBs) of Dendrobium candidum are of great value due to their high yield and low cost. In this work, three glycoside compounds, β-D-glucopyranose 1-[(E)-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-2-propenoat] (I), β-D-glucopyranose 1-[(E)-3-(3, 4-dihydroxyphenyl)-2-propenoat] (II), and 1-O-sinapoyl glucopyranoside (III), were extracted and isolated by ultrahigh pressure extraction (UPE) coupled with high-speed counter-current chromatography (HSCCC) from PLBs of D. officinale. First, the target compounds were optimized and prepared with 50% ethanol solution at a 1:30 (g/mL) solid/liquid ratio in 2 min under 300 MPa by UPE. Then, the crude extract was chromatographed with a silica gel column, and primary separation products were obtained. In addition, the products (150 mg) were separated by HSCCC under the solvent system of MTBE-n-butyl alcohol-acetonitrile-water (5:1:2:6, v/v/v/v), yielding 31.43 mg of compound I, 10.21 mg of compound II, and 24.75 mg of compound III. Their structures were further identified by ESI-MS, 1H NMR, and 13C NMR. The antioxidant results showed that the three compounds expressed moderate effects on the DPPH· scavenging effect. Compound II had the best antioxidant capacity and its IC50 value was 0.0497 mg/mL.
Biosynthesis Microwave-Assisted of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles with Ziziphus jujuba Leaves Extract: Characterization and Photocatalytic Application
Authors: Alharthi Maymounah N. , Ismail Iqbal , Bellucci Stefano , Khdary Nezar H. , Abdel Salam Mohamed
Published: June 2021

The present work is intended to biosynthesize zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) via facile and modern route using aqueous Ziziphus jujuba leaves extract assisted by microwave and explore their photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange anionic dye and methylene blue cationic dye under solar irradiation. The biosynthesized microwave assisted ZnO NPs were characterized and the results showed that ZnO NPs contain hexagonal wurtzite and characterized with a well-defined spherical-like shape with an outstanding band gap (2.70 eV), average particle size of 25 nm and specific surface area of 11.4 m2/g. The photocatalytic degradation of the MO and MB dyes by biosynthesized ZnO NPs under solar irradiation was studied and the results revealed the selective nature of the ZnO NPs for the adsorption and further photocatalytic degradation of the MO dye compared to the MB dye. In addition, the photocatalytic degradation of MO and MB dyes by the ZnO NPs under solar radiation was fitted by the first-order kinetics. Moreover, the photodegradation mechanism proposed that superoxide ions and hydroxyl radicals are the main reactive species.
Glyconanomaterials for Human Virus Detection and Inhibition
Authors: Losada-Garcia Noelia , Garcia-Sanz Carla , Andreu Alicia , Velasco-Torrijos Trinidad , Palomo Jose M.
Published: June 2021

Viruses are among the most infectious pathogens, responsible for the highest death toll around the world. Lack of effective clinical drugs for most viral diseases emphasizes the need for speedy and accurate diagnosis at early stages of infection to prevent rapid spread of the pathogens. Glycans are important molecules which are involved in different biological recognition processes, especially in the spread of infection by mediating virus interaction with endothelial cells. Thus, novel strategies based on nanotechnology have been developed for identifying and inhibiting viruses in a fast, selective, and precise way. The nanosized nature of nanomaterials and their exclusive optical, electronic, magnetic, and mechanical features can improve patient care through using sensors with minimal invasiveness and extreme sensitivity. This review provides an overview of the latest advances of functionalized glyconanomaterials, for rapid and selective biosensing detection of molecules as biomarkers or specific glycoproteins and as novel promising antiviral agents for different kinds of serious viruses, such as the Dengue virus, Ebola virus, influenza virus, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), influenza virus, Zika virus, or coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19).
Lateral PbS Photovoltaic Devices for High Performance Infrared and Terahertz Photodetectors
Authors: Ampadu Emmanuel K. , Kim Jungdong , Oh Eunsoon
Published: June 2021

We fabricated a lateral photovoltaic device for use as infrared to terahertz (THz) detectors by chemically depositing PbS films on titanium substrates. We discussed the material properties of PbS films grown on glass with varying deposition conditions. PbS was deposited on Ti substrates and by taking advantage of the Ti/PbS Schottky junction, we discussed the photocurrent transients as well as the room temperature spectrum response measured by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometer. Our photovoltaic PbS device operates at room temperature for wavelength ranges up to 50 µm, which is in the terahertz region, making the device highly applicable in many fields.
Vitamin K2 Holds Promise for Alzheimer’s Prevention and Treatment
Authors: Popescu Alexander , German Monica
Published: June 2021

Recent studies have highlighted the importance of vitamin K2 (VK2) in human health. However, there have been no clinical studies investigating the role of VK2 in the prevention or treatment of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a debilitating disease for which currently there is no cure. In reviewing basic science research and clinical studies that have connected VK2 to factors involved in AD pathogenesis, we have found a growing body of evidence demonstrating that VK2 has the potential to slow the progression of AD and contribute to its prevention. In our review, we consider the antiapoptotic and antioxidant effects of VK2 and its impact on neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, cognition, cardiovascular health, and comorbidities in AD. We also examine the link between dysbiosis and VK2 in the context of the microbiome’s role in AD pathogenesis. Our review is the first to consider the physiological roles of VK2 in the context of AD, and, given the recent shift in AD research toward nonpharmacological interventions, our findings emphasize the timeliness and need for clinical studies involving VK2.
Effect of Freezing on Gut Microbiota Composition and Functionality for In Vitro Fermentation Experiments
Authors: Pérez-Burillo Sergio , Hinojosa-Nogueira Daniel , Navajas-Porras Beatriz , Blasco Telmo , Balzerani Francesco , Lerma-Aguilera Alberto , León Daniel , Pastoriza Silvia , Apaolaza Iñigo , Planes Francisco J. , Francino Maria Pilar , Rufián-Henares José Ángel
Published: June 2021

The gut microbiota has a profound effect on human health and is modulated by food and bioactive compounds. To study such interaction, in vitro batch fermentations are performed with fecal material, and some experimental designs may require that such fermentations be performed with previously frozen stools. Although it is known that freezing fecal material does not alter the composition of the microbial community in 16S rRNA gene amplicon and metagenomic sequencing studies, it is not known whether the microbial community in frozen samples could still be used for in vitro fermentations. To explore this, we undertook a pilot study in which in vitro fermentations were performed with fecal material from celiac, cow’s milk allergic, obese, or lean children that was frozen (or not) with 20% glycerol. Before fermentation, the fecal material was incubated in a nutritious medium for 6 days, with the aim of giving the microbial community time to recover from the effects of freezing. An aliquot was taken daily from the stabilization vessel and used for the in vitro batch fermentation of lentils. The microbial community structure was significantly different between fresh and frozen samples, but the variation introduced by freezing a sample was always smaller than the variation among individuals, both before and after fermentation. Moreover, the potential functionality (as determined in silico by a genome-scaled metabolic reconstruction) did not differ significantly, possibly due to functional redundancy. The most affected genus was Bacteroides, a fiber degrader. In conclusion, if frozen fecal material is to be used for in vitro fermentation purposes, our preliminary analyses indicate that the functionality of microbial communities can be preserved after stabilization.
Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Consumption Status and Its Association with Childhood Obesity among Chinese Children Aged 6–17 Years
Authors: Gan Qian , Xu Peipei , Yang Titi , Cao Wei , Xu Juan , Li Li , Pan Hui , Zhao Wenhua , Zhang Qian
Published: June 2021

Objective: There is a remarkable growth in sugar-sweetened (SSB) production and obesity prevalence among school-aged children in China. This paper describes SSB consumption and its association with obesity among Chinese children aged 6–17 years in 2012. Methods: in total, 25,553 children aged 6~17 years enrolled in the China Nutrition and Health Surveillance 2010–2013 were included in this study. Data of SSB consumption frequency and quantity were obtained from a food frequency questionnaire, and the children’s nutritional status was assessed. Multivariate logistic regression was used to evaluate the association between SSB consumption and obesity status. Results: SSB intake was estimated as 181.0 g/day, occurring 2.2 times/week. Older children, males, children from urban areas, and children with higher socioeconomic status were more likely to consume SSBs. Children who consumed SSBs 1~<5 times/week (11.7%) and >5 times/week (12.9%) were more likely to be overweight/obesity than those who consumed SSBs less than once/week. Conclusion: SSB consumption was common among Chinese school-aged children, especially among males, older children, and children from urban areas. High consumption of SSBs was associated with a higher prevalence of overweight/obesity. Actions and plans are required to reduce SSB consumption and control childhood obesity in China.
Association of Dietary Patterns with Cardiovascular and Kidney Phenotypes in an Uruguayan Population Cohort
Authors: Moliterno Paula , Donangelo Carmen Marino , Borgarello Luciana , Pécora Matías , Olascoaga Alicia , Noboa Oscar , Boggia José
Published: June 2021

The impact of habitual diet on chronic diseases has not been extensively characterized in South America. We aimed to identify major dietary patterns (DP) in an adult cohort in Uruguay (Genotype Phenotype and Environment of Hypertension Study—GEFA-HT-UY) and to assess associations with metabolic, anthropometric characteristics, and cardiovascular and kidney phenotypes. In a cross-sectional study (n = 294), DP were derived by the principal component analysis. Blood and urine parameters, anthropometrics, blood pressure, pulse wave velocity, and glomerular filtration rate were measured. Multivariable adjusted linear models and adjusted binary logistic regression were used. Three DP were identified (Meat, Prudent, Cereal and Mate) explaining 22.6% of total variance in food intake. The traditional Meat DP, characterized by red and barbecued meat, processed meat, bread, and soft drinks, was associated with worse blood lipid profile. Prudent DP, characterized by vegetables, fish, and nuts, and lower loads for bread and crackers, was associated with reduced risk of vitamin D deficiency. Cereal and Mate DP, was characterized by higher loads of cereals, bread, and crackers, and mate infusion, with higher odds of excessive body weight. No direct associations of dietary patterns with hypertension, arterial stiffness, chronic kidney disease, and nephrolithiasis were found in the studied population, nor by age categories or sex.