bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Obesity-Induced Inflammation on Cardiovascular Diseases (CVD)
Authors: Battineni Gopi , Sagaro Getu Gamo , Chintalapudi Nalini , Amenta Francesco , Tomassoni Daniele , Tayebati Seyed Khosrow
Published: April 2021

Overweight and obesity are key risk factors of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Obesity is currently presented as a pro-inflammatory state with an expansion in the outflow of inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), alongside the expanded emission of leptin. The present review aimed to evaluate the relationship between obesity and inflammation and their impacts on the development of cardiovascular disease. A literature search was conducted by employing three academic databases, namely PubMed (Medline), Scopus (EMBASE), and the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL). The search presented 786 items, and by inclusion and exclusion filterers, 59 works were considered for final review. The Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS) method was adopted to conduct quality assessment; 19 papers were further selected based on the quality score. Obesity-related inflammation leads to a low-grade inflammatory state in organisms by upregulating pro-inflammatory markers and downregulating anti-inflammatory cytokines, thereby contributing to cardiovascular disease pathogenesis. Because of inflammatory and infectious symptoms, adipocytes appear to instigate articulation and discharge a few intense stage reactants and carriers of inflammation. Obesity and inflammatory markers are strongly associated, and are important factors in the development of CVD. Hence, weight management can help prevent cardiovascular risks and poor outcomes by inhibiting inflammatory mechanisms.
Neutrophils in Tuberculosis: Cell Biology, Cellular Networking and Multitasking in Host Defense
Authors: Borkute Rachana R. , Woelke Sören , Pei Gang , Dorhoi Anca
Published: April 2021

Neutrophils readily infiltrate infection foci, phagocytose and usually destroy microbes. In tuberculosis (TB), a chronic pulmonary infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), neutrophils harbor bacilli, are abundant in tissue lesions, and their abundances in blood correlate with poor disease outcomes in patients. The biology of these innate immune cells in TB is complex. Neutrophils have been assigned host-beneficial as well as deleterious roles. The short lifespan of neutrophils purified from blood poses challenges to cell biology studies, leaving intracellular biological processes and the precise consequences of Mtb–neutrophil interactions ill-defined. The phenotypic heterogeneity of neutrophils, and their propensity to engage in cellular cross-talk and to exert various functions during homeostasis and disease, have recently been reported, and such observations are newly emerging in TB. Here, we review the interactions of neutrophils with Mtb, including subcellular events and cell fate upon infection, and summarize the cross-talks between neutrophils and lung-residing and -recruited cells. We highlight the roles of neutrophils in TB pathophysiology, discussing recent findings from distinct models of pulmonary TB, and emphasize technical advances that could facilitate the discovery of novel neutrophil-related disease mechanisms and enrich our knowledge of TB pathogenesis.
Endoglin/CD105-Based Imaging of Cancer and Cardiovascular Diseases: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sier Vincent Q. , van der Vorst Joost R. , Quax Paul H. A. , de Vries Margreet R. , Zonoobi Elham , Vahrmeijer Alexander L. , Dekkers Ilona A. , de Geus-Oei Lioe-Fee , Smits Anke M. , Cai Weibo , Sier Cornelis F. M. , Goumans Marie José T. H. , Hawinkels Lukas J. A. C.
Published: April 2021

Molecular imaging of pathologic lesions can improve efficient detection of cancer and cardiovascular diseases. A shared pathophysiological feature is angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels. Endoglin (CD105) is a coreceptor for ligands of the Transforming Growth Factor-β (TGF-β) family and is highly expressed on angiogenic endothelial cells. Therefore, endoglin-based imaging has been explored to visualize lesions of the aforementioned diseases. This systematic review highlights the progress in endoglin-based imaging of cancer, atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, and aortic aneurysm, focusing on positron emission tomography (PET), single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), near-infrared fluorescence (NIRF) imaging, and ultrasound imaging. PubMed was searched combining the following subjects and their respective synonyms or relevant subterms: “Endoglin”, “Imaging/Image-guided surgery”. In total, 59 papers were found eligible to be included: 58 reporting about preclinical animal or in vitro models and one ex vivo study in human organs. In addition to exact data extraction of imaging modality type, tumor or cardiovascular disease model, and tracer (class), outcomes were described via a narrative synthesis. Collectively, the data identify endoglin as a suitable target for intraoperative and diagnostic imaging of the neovasculature in tumors, whereas for cardiovascular diseases, the evidence remains scarce but promising.
A Machine Learning Approach for the Tune Estimation in the LHC
Authors: Grech Leander , Valentino Gianluca , Alves Diogo
Published: April 2021

The betatron tune in the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) is measured using a Base-Band Tune (BBQ) system. The processing of these BBQ signals is often perturbed by 50 Hz noise harmonics present in the beam. This causes the tune measurement algorithm, currently based on peak detection, to provide incorrect tune estimates during the acceleration cycle with values that oscillate between neighbouring harmonics. The LHC tune feedback (QFB) cannot be used to its full extent in these conditions as it relies on stable and reliable tune estimates. In this work, we propose new tune estimation algorithms, designed to mitigate this problem through different techniques. As ground-truth of the real tune measurement does not exist, we developed a surrogate model, which allowed us to perform a comparative analysis of a simple weighted moving average, Gaussian Processes and different deep learning techniques. The simulated dataset used to train the deep models was also improved using a variant of Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) called SimGAN. In addition, we demonstrate how these methods perform with respect to the present tune estimation algorithm.
Exploring Clustering-Based Reinforcement Learning for Personalized Book Recommendation in Digital Library
Authors: Wang Xinhua , Wang Yuchen , Guo Lei , Xu Liancheng , Gao Baozhong , Liu Fangai , Li Wei
Published: April 2021

Digital library as one of the most important ways in helping students acquire professional knowledge and improve their professional level has gained great attention in recent years. However, its large collection (especially the book resources) hinders students from finding the resources that they are interested in. To overcome this challenge, many researchers have already turned to recommendation algorithms. Compared with traditional recommendation tasks, in the digital library, there are two challenges in book recommendation problems. The first is that users may borrow books that they are not interested in (i.e., noisy borrowing behaviours), such as borrowing books for classmates. The second is that the number of books in a digital library is usually very large, which means one student can only borrow a small set of books in history (i.e., data sparsity issue). As the noisy interactions in students’ borrowing sequences may harm the recommendation performance of a book recommender, we focus on refining recommendations via filtering out data noises. Moreover, due to the the lack of direct supervision information, we treat noise filtering in sequences as a decision-making process and innovatively introduce a reinforcement learning method as our recommendation framework. Furthermore, to overcome the sparsity issue of students’ borrowing behaviours, a clustering-based reinforcement learning algorithm is further developed. Experimental results on two real-world datasets demonstrate the superiority of our proposed method compared with several state-of-the-art recommendation methods.
Exploring Reusability and Reproducibility for a Research Infrastructure for L1 and L2 Learner Corpora
Authors: König Alexander , Frey Jennifer-Carmen , Stemle Egon W.
Published: April 2021

Up until today research in various educational and linguistic domains such as learner corpus research, writing research, or second language acquisition has produced a substantial amount of research data in the form of L1 and L2 learner corpora. However, the multitude of individual solutions combined with domain-inherent obstacles in data sharing have so far hampered comparability, reusability and reproducibility of data and research results. In this article, we present work in creating a digital infrastructure for L1 and L2 learner corpora and populating it with data collected in the past. We embed our infrastructure efforts in the broader field of infrastructures for scientific research, drawing from technical solutions and frameworks from research data management, among which the FAIR guiding principles for data stewardship. We share our experiences from integrating some L1 and L2 learner corpora from concluded projects into the infrastructure while trying to ensure compliance with the FAIR principles and the standards we established for reproducibility, discussing how far research data that has been collected in the past can be made comparable, reusable and reproducible. Our results show that some basic needs for providing comparable and reusable data are covered by existing general infrastructure solutions and can be exploited for domain-specific infrastructures such as the one presented in this article. Other aspects need genuinely domain-driven approaches. The solutions found for the corpora in the presented infrastructure can only be a preliminary attempt, and further community involvement would be needed to provide templates and models acknowledged and promoted by the community. Furthermore, forward-looking data management would be needed starting from the beginning of new corpus creation projects to ensure that all requirements for FAIR data can be met.
RNAi-Mediated Silencing of the Chitinase 5 Gene for Fall Webworm (Hyphantria cunea) Can Inhibit Larval Molting Depending on the Timing of dsRNA Injection
Authors: Zhang Xun , Wang Yue , Zhang Sufang , Kong Xiangbo , Liu Fu , Zhang Zhen
Published: April 2021

Chitinases, which are crucial enzymes required for chitin degradation and reconstruction, are often selectively considered to be effective molecular targets for pest control due to their critical roles in insect development. Although the Hyphantria cunea chitinase gene has been reported previously, its sequence characteristics, gene function, and feasibility as a potential target for pest management were absent. In the present study, we characterized the H. cunea chitinase gene and designated it HcCht5. Phylogenic and domain structure analysis suggested that HcCht5 contained the typical chitinase features and was clustered into chitinase group I. Tissue-specific and developmental expression pattern analysis with Real-Time Quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) showed that HcCht5 was mainly expressed in the integument tissues and that the transcript levels peaked during molting. RNA interference (RNAi)-mediated silencing of HcCht5 caused 33.3% (2 ug) and 66.7% (4 ug) mortality rates after double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) injection. Importantly, the interference efficiency of HcCht5 depended on the injection time of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA), as the pre-molting treatment achieved molt arrest more effectively. In addition, transcriptome sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis of RNAi samples demonstrated silencing of the down-regulated HcCht5 genes related to chitin metabolism and molting hormone signaling, as well as genes related to detoxification metabolism. Our results indicate the essential role of HcCht5 in H. cunea development and detail the involvement of its gene function in the larval molting process.
Usage of Fermental Traps for the Study of the Species Diversity of Coleoptera
Authors: Ruchin Alexander B. , Egorov Leonid V. , Khapugin Anatoliy A.
Published: April 2021

The possibilities of applying various methods to study Coleoptera give unexpected and original results. The studies were carried out with the help of fermental crown traps in 2018–2020 on the territory of eight regions in the central part of European Russia. The biodiversity of the Coleoptera that fall into crown traps includes 294 species from 45 families. The number of species attracted to the fermenting bait is about a third of the total number of species in the traps (this is 97.4% of the number of all of the caught specimens). The largest number of species that have been found in the traps belong to the families Cerambycidae, Elateridae and Curculionidae. The most actively attracted species mainly belong to the families Cerambycidae, Nitidulidae and Scarabaeidae. The species of these families are equally attracted by baits made of beer, white and red wines. In order to identify the Coleoptera biodiversity of a particular biotope, two-year studies are sufficient, and they should be carried out throughout the vegetation season. Especially good results can be obtained from studies of rare species that are actively attracted by such baits. It is possible to study the vertical–horizontal distribution of Coleoptera fauna in individual biotopes.
Enabling Secure Guest Access for Command-and-Control of Internet of Things Devices
Authors: Poulter Andrew John , Cox Simon J.
Published: April 2021

Internet of Things (IoT) devices are becoming ubiquitous, and may be arranged to form formal or ad hoc Command and Control (C2) networks. Such networks typically do not have a mechanism to facilitate the sharing of either data or control inputs. This paper examines this problem in the context of IoT devices operating within C2 systems which do not have a trusted relationship with each other. We propose a solution which we call syndication, to provide a controlled mechanism to share data between C2 systems of devices without a fully trusted relationship. This paper builds upon previous work which established a lightweight protocol for secure C2 operations within the IoT. Using the proposed approach enables not only sharing of data but also permits the external controller to submit moderated requests for actions to be performed. The paper concludes by examining how this approach could also be adopted to provide secure guest access to connected systems in a domestic or commercial context.
Effect of a 6-Week Physical Education Intervention on Motor Competence in Pre-School Children with Developmental Coordination Disorder
Authors: Navarro-Patón Rubén , Martín-Ayala Juan Luis , Martí González Mariacarla , Hernández Alba , Mecías-Calvo Marcos
Published: April 2021

The objective of this research was to analyze the impact of an intervention program performed by a specialist in physical education (PE) to contribute to the development of motor competence (MC) in pre-school children with motor development problems. The sample consisted of 28 children (12 from the intervention group and 16 from the control group) aged between 4.1 and 5.9 years (mean = 4.71 ± 0.54) who were in the fifth and sixth grades of pre-school education in two schools from Lugo, Spain. The Movement Assessment Battery for Children-2 (MABC-2) was used for data collection. The data revealed that, in the pre- and post-test intervention groups, there are statistically significant differences in manual dexterity (p < 0.001; d = 2.63), aiming and catching (p < 0.002; d = 1.13), balance (p < 0.001; d = 1.68), total test score (p < 0.001; d = 3.30) and total percentile score (p < 0.001; d = 1.88). Between the control and intervention post-test groups, significant differences were found in manual dexterity (p = 0.015; η2 = 0.22), aiming and catching (p = 0.003; η2 = 0.32), balance (p = 0.050; η2 = 0.15), total test score (p < 0.001; η2 = 0.47) and total percentile score (p < 0.001; η2 = 0.48). Based on the results obtained, a specific MC program implemented by a PE specialist contributed to the improvement of manual dexterity, aiming and catching and balance, as well as a better percentile in the general MC of pre-school children diagnosed with motor skill problems.
Trends in Prevalence of Diabetes among Twin Pregnancies and Perinatal Outcomes in Catalonia between 2006 and 2015: The DIAGESTCAT Study
Authors: Gortazar Lucia , Flores-Le Roux Juana Antonia , Benaiges David , Sarsanedas Eugènia , Navarro Humberto , Payà Antonio , Mañé Laura , Pedro-Botet Juan , Goday Albert
Published: April 2021

The aims of our study were to evaluate the trends in the prevalence of diabetes among twin pregnancies in Catalonia, Spain between 2006 and 2015, to assess the influence of diabetes on perinatal outcomes of twin gestations and to ascertain the interaction between twin pregnancies and glycaemic status. A population-based study was conducted using the Spanish Minimum Basic Data Set. Cases of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and pre-existing diabetes were identified using ICD-9-CM codes. Data from 743,762 singleton and 15,956 twin deliveries between 2006 and 2015 in Catalonia was analysed. Among twin pregnancies, 1088 (6.82%) were diagnosed with GDM and 83 (0.52%) had pre-existing diabetes. The prevalence of GDM among twin pregnancies increased from 6.01% in 2006 to 8.48% in 2015 (p < 0.001) and the prevalence of pre-existing diabetes remained stable (from 0.46% to 0.27%, p = 0.416). The risk of pre-eclampsia was higher in pre-existing diabetes (15.66%, p = 0.015) and GDM (11.39%, p < 0.001) than in normoglycaemic twin pregnancies (7.55%). Pre-existing diabetes increased the risk of prematurity (69.62% vs. 51.84%, p = 0.002) and large-for-gestational-age (LGA) infants (20.9% vs. 11.6%, p = 0.001) in twin gestations. An attenuating effect on several adverse perinatal outcomes was found between twin pregnancies and the presence of GDM and pre-existing diabetes. As a result, unlike in singleton pregnancies, diabetes did not increase the risk of all perinatal outcomes in twins and the effect of pre-existing diabetes on pre-eclampsia and LGA appeared to be attenuated. In conclusion, prevalence of GDM among twin pregnancies increased over the study period. Diabetes was associated with a higher risk of pre-eclampsia, prematurity and LGA in twin gestations. However, the impact of both, pre-existing diabetes and GDM, on twin pregnancy outcomes was attenuated when compared with its impact on singleton gestations.
Osteoarthritis: Novel Molecular Mechanisms Increase Our Understanding of the Disease Pathology
Authors: Grässel Susanne , Zaucke Frank , Madry Henning
Published: April 2021

Although osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common musculoskeletal condition that causes significant health and social problems worldwide, its exact etiology is still unclear. With an aging and increasingly obese population, OA is becoming even more prevalent than in previous decades. Up to 35% of the world’s population over 60 years of age suffers from symptomatic (painful, disabling) OA. The disease poses a tremendous economic burden on the health-care system and society for diagnosis, treatment, sick leave, rehabilitation, and early retirement. Most patients also experience sleep disturbances, reduced capability for exercising, lifting, and walking and are less capable of working, and maintaining an independent lifestyle. For patients, the major problem is disability, resulting from joint tissue destruction and pain. So far, there is no therapy available that effectively arrests structural deterioration of cartilage and bone or is able to successfully reverse any of the existing structural defects. Here, we elucidate novel concepts and hypotheses regarding disease progression and pathology, which are relevant for understanding underlying the molecular mechanisms as a prerequisite for future therapeutic approaches. Emphasis is placed on topographical modeling of the disease, the role of proteases and cytokines in OA, and the impact of the peripheral nervous system and its neuropeptides.
A Generalized Hybrid RANSE/BEM Approach for the Analysis of Hull–Propeller Interaction in Off-Design Conditions
Authors: Calcagni Danilo , Dubbioso Giulio , Capone Alessandro , Ortolani Fabrizio , Broglia Riccardo
Published: April 2021

During maneuvers, propellers’ operation differs from their design due to strong modification of the wake field with respect to the straight-ahead motion. The consequent modification of the loads overstresses the mechanical components of the shaftline, exacerbates propeller side effects and worsens overall efficiency. Therefore, the analysis of these situations in the early design phase is pivotal to increase the operation capabilities and safety at sea. This task relies on novel tools capable to accurately predict the complex flow field that develops past the hull and the propeller loads. Since the solution of the fully coupled problem with the rotating propeller by viscous flow solver is impractical for routine applications, hybrid approaches are a viable alternative. In this paper, an interactive RANSE/BEM methodology is presented, where the propeller is replaced by rotating body forces that map the actual loading state of the blades, allowing a fully unsteady analysis of hull–propeller interaction. The methodology is applied to the straight ahead and 8.4° pure drift motions of a twin screw propulsive configuration. Last, but not least, the study presents a validation study with accurate experimental data of the nominal wake field and single blade loads.
Assessing Land Dynamics and Sustainability on the Pacific Coast of Nicaragua: A Method Based on Comprehensive Land Units
Authors: González-Quiroz Oscar , Belliure Josabel , Gómez-Sal Antonio
Published: April 2021

In the coastal zones, varied uses converge, some of them of priority interest. In this study, an integrated method for the planning and management of the territory is proposed, which includes the evaluation of sustainability. A total of 15 different land-use classes were estimated in 80 sampling units distributed regularly along the Pacific coastline of Nicaragua and classified to determine land management sectors. For each of the identified sectors, the ecological, economic, social, and productive dimensions were evaluated independently, handling a total of 53 variables from different databases, by means of ordination multivariate factor analysis. Subsequently, the four dimensions were integrated into a model and the results were evaluated based on their similarity with theoretical development scenarios, assessed by discriminant analysis. Among these, the scenarios considered as a goal for sustainability in the studied area were present. On the Pacific coast of Nicaragua, productive and economic activities are currently prioritized, without having an integrated planning scheme for the entire territory, which includes nature conservation. The main contribution has been to provide a method for evaluating the land in an integrative and multidimensional way, while at the same time qualifying the different territorial sectors from a sustainable development. Even under a context of relative scarcity of information for some relevant aspects, the dimension-values assessment is largely solved by ordering the territorial sectors with a multivariate strategy, so that they are classified in relative and not absolute terms, which allows the strategy to be very useful for countries lacking some databases and cartography. This holistic and comprehensive vision of the entire territory facilitates social participation and contributes to decision-making aimed at advancing toward sustainability.
Productive Friction Between Practice and the Academy: Why Can’t We Be Friends?
Authors: Ware SueAnne
Published: April 2021

This essay examines the various machinations and relationships between landscape architectural practice and landscape architectural academia. Through the lens of productive friction and the philosophical framework of radical hope; I unpack various examples of disruptors and innovation with the aim of opening up a discussion around our urgent need for transformation.
Experimental Study on the Mechanical Properties and Compression Size Effect of Recycled Aggregate Concrete
Authors: Du Yubing , Zhao Zhiqing , Xiao Qiang , Shi Feiting , Yang Jianming , Gao Peiwei
Published: April 2021

To explore the basic mechanical properties and size effects of recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) with different substitution ratios of coarse recycled concrete aggregates (CRCAs) to replace natural coarse aggregates (NCA), the failure modes and mechanical parameters of RAC under different loading conditions including compression, splitting tensile resistance and direct shear were compared and analyzed. The conclusions drawn are as follows: the failure mechanisms of concrete with different substitution ratios of CRCAs are similar; with the increase in substitution ratio, the peak compressive stress and peak tensile stress of RAC decrease gradually, the splitting limit displacement decreases, and the splitting tensile modulus slightly increases; with the increase in the concrete cube’s side length, the peak compressive stress of RAC declines gradually, but the integrity after compression is gradually improved; and the increase in the substitution ratio of the recycled aggregate reduces the impact of the size effect on the peak compressive stress of RAC. Furthermore, an influence equation of the coupling effect of the substitution ratio and size effect on the peak compressive stress of RAC was quantitatively established. The research results are of great significance for the engineering application of RAC and the strength selection of RAC structure design.
Size Control of Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles by Simultaneous Chemical Reduction and Laser Fragmentation in Origanum majorana Extract: Antibacterial Application
Authors: Ganash Entesar Ali , Altuwirqi Reem Mohammad
Published: April 2021

In this work, silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) were synthesized using a chemical reduction approach and a pulsed laser fragmentation in liquid (PLFL) technique, simultaneously. A laser wavelength of 532 nm was focused on the as produced Ag NPs, suspended in an Origanum majorana extract solution, with the aim of controlling their size. The effect of liquid medium concentration and irradiation time on the properties of the fabricated NPs was studied. While the X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern confirmed the existence of Ag NPs, the UV–Vis spectrophotometry showed a significant absorption peak at about 420 nm, which is attributed to the characteristic surface plasmon resonance (SPR) peak of the obtained Ag NPs. By increasing the irradiation time and the Origanum majora extract concentration, the SPR peak shifted toward a shorter wavelength. This shift indicates a reduction in the NPs’ size. The effect of PLFL on size reduction was clearly revealed from the transmission electron microscopy images. The PLFL technique, depending on experimental parameters, reduced the size of the obtained Ag NPs to less than 10 nm. The mean zeta potential of the fabricated Ag NPs was found to be greater than −30 mV, signifying their stability. The Ag NPs were also found to effectively inhibit bacterial activity. The PLFL technique has proved to be a powerful method for controlling the size of NPs when it is simultaneously associated with a chemical reduction process.
Biological Cloth Face Coverings—The Reduction of SARS-CoV-2 and Influenza (H1N1) Infectivity by Viruferrin™ Treatment
Authors: Medina-Magües Emily S. , Stedman Anna , Hope Paul , Osorio Jorge E.
Published: April 2021

In an attempt to create novel methods to reduce the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and influenza viruses, fabric material was treated with Viruferrin™ and tested for its inactivating properties against the pandemic severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and influenza A viruses. Inactivating properties were evaluated by comparing Viruferrin-treated and cotton control fabric material with and without the application of saliva at various time points after virus exposure. A statistically significant (p < 0.0001) decrease in the number of infectious virus particles exposed to Viruferrin-treated fabric when compared with the cotton control for both SARS-CoV-2 and influenza A viruses was observed. For both SARS-CoV-2 and influenza A, Viruferrin-treated fabrics experienced a >99% virus reduction without saliva after five minutes of contact when compared to the positive control at time point 0. Furthermore, the reusability of the Viruferrin treated fabric was demonstrated by stability for up to 10 washes. The level of anti-viral (SARS-CoV-2) activity remained constant from 5 to 10 washes and demonstrated a significant difference (p < 0.0001) from the unwashed untreated material. Applications for this treated fabric are far reaching, as a biological face covering offers not only a unique 2-way protection but also is unlikely to cause onward touch transmission.
Insight towards Nucleation Mechanism and Change in Morphology for Nanostructured Platinum Thin Film Directly Grown on Carbon Substrate via Electrochemical Deposition
Authors: Dhanasekaran Prabhakaran , Rajavarman Swaminathan , Selvaganesh Sivasuriyanarayanan Vinod , Bhat Santoshkumar Dattatray
Published: April 2021

Nanocrystalline platinum with different morphologies is synthesized via electrochemical deposition technique. The nucleation mechanism and its structural effect over the electrodeposited Pt on carbon electrodes have been systematically studied. Powder X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and field-emission scanning electron microscopy are employed to study nucleation, oxidation states, and Pt structure growth on a carbon electrode. This study reports significant development of Pt metal nanoparticles with different morphologies such as a sphere, flower, core-flower, and rod-like structure directly fabricated on carbon electrode while tuning the deposition parameters such as current density, time, temperature, pH during the deposition process. The proposed electrochemical route represents a superior fabrication procedure for large-scale electrode fabrication compared to a conventional method for preparing membrane electrode assemblies for fuel cell stacks.
Fabrication of Single-Phase Manganese Oxide Films by Metal-Organic Decomposition
Authors: Kim Kyung-Hwan , Lee Do Kyung , Choi Yun-Hyuk
Published: April 2021

Here, single-phase Mn2O3 and Mn3O4 films are successfully fabricated by a facile solution process based on metal-organic decomposition (MOD), for the first time. A formulated manganese 2-ethylhexanoate solution was used as an MOD precursor for the preparation of manganese oxide films. The difference in thermal decomposition behavior of precursor solution in air and inert atmospheres was observed, indicating that the calcination atmosphere is the main factor for controlling the valence of manganese oxide films. Significantly, the solution-coated films on substrates are found to be transformed into single-phase Mn2O3 and Mn3O4 films when they are calcinated under air and inert atmosphere, respectively. The film crystallinity was improved with increasing calcination temperature for both Mn2O3 and Mn3O4 films. In particular, it is noted that the grains of Mn2O3 film were somewhat linearly grown in air, while those of Mn3O4 film exhibited the drastic growth in Ar with an increase of calcination temperature.
Influence of Scanning-Aid Materials on the Accuracy and Time Efficiency of Intraoral Scanners for Full-Arch Digital Scanning: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Oh Hyun-Su , Lim Young-Jun , Kim Bongju , Kim Myung-Joo , Kwon Ho-Beom , Baek Yeon-Wha
Published: April 2021

This study was performed to verify the influence of scanning-aid materials on the accuracy and time efficiency of full-arch scanning with intraoral scanners. The full-arch reference model was constructed by a 3D printer and scanned with a model scanner to obtain the reference dataset. Four experimental groups (application of ScanCure (SC-80, ODS Co, Incheon, Korea), IP Scan Spray (IP-Division, Haimhausen, Germany) and Vita Powder Scan Spray (Vita Zahnfabrik, Stuttgart, Germany), and no treatment) were designed, and the scans were executed (trueness, n = 5) using two intraoral scanners: I500 (Medit Co., Seoul, Korea) and TRIOS (3shape, Copenhagen, Denmark). All acquired scan data were compared with the reference datasets using the 3D superimposition method and 2D linear measurements. In the 3D analysis, intragroup data were compared with each other (precision, n = 10). Time efficiency was also verified by comparing the scan times of the four experimental groups. In the 3D analysis, the root mean square (RMS) value of the precision of the scanned image was statistically significantly more accurate in the scanning-aid agent-treated groups than in the no-treatment group (p < 0.05). However, the RMS values of trueness and the types of scanning-aid materials were not significantly different. In the 2D measurements, the increased scan distance generated a greater distance deviation. The working time was significantly shorter in the scanning-aid agent groups than in the no-treatment group, with statistical significance (p < 0.05). Therefore, in clinical situations, the application of scanning-aid materials is recommended to reduce scanning time and more efficiently obtain the full-arch scanned image.
Anti-Thrombogenicity Study of a Covalently-Attached Monolayer on Stent-Grade Stainless Steel
Authors: Yang Tairan , De La Franier Brian , Thompson Michael
Published: April 2021

Implantable devices fabricated from austenitic type 316L stainless steel have been employed significantly in medicine, principally because the material displays excellent mechanical characteristics and corrosion resistance. It is well known, however, that interaction of exposure of such a material to blood can initiate platelet adhesion and blood coagulation, leading to a harmful medical condition. In order to prevent undesirable surface platelet adhesion on biomaterials employed in procedures such as renal dialysis, we developed an ultrathin anti-thrombogenic covalently attached monolayer based on monoethylene glycol silane chemistry. This functions by forming an interstitial hydration layer which displays restricted mobility in the prevention of surface fouling. In the present work, the promising anti-thrombogenic properties of this film are examined with respect to platelet aggregation on 316L austenitic stainless steel exposed to whole human blood. Prior to exposure with blood, all major surface modification steps were examined by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic analysis and surface free-angle measurement by contact angle goniometry. End-stage anti-thrombogenicity detection after 20 min of blood exposure at 100 s−1, 300 s−1, 600 s−1, 750 s−1, and 900 s−1 shear rates revealed that a significant reduction (>90%) of platelet adhesion and aggregation was achieved for surface-modified steel, compared with untreated material. This result is confirmed by experiments conducted in real time for 60-minute exposure to blood at 100 s−1, 600 s−1, and 900 s−1 shear rates.
Effect of Fabrication Technique on the Microgap of CAD/CAM Cobalt–Chrome and Zirconia Abutments on a Conical Connection Implant: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Molinero-Mourelle Pedro , Cascos-Sanchez Rocio , Yilmaz Burak , Lam Walter Yu Hang , Pow Edmond Ho Nang , Del Río Highsmith Jaime , Gómez-Polo Miguel
Published: April 2021

The aim of this in vitro study was to investigate the microgaps at the implant–abutment interface when zirconia (Zr) and CAD/CAM or cast Co–Cr abutments were used. Methods: Sixty-four conical connection implants and their abutments were divided into four groups (Co–Cr (milled, laser-sintered and castable) and Zirconia (milled)). After chewing simulation (300,000 cycles, under 200 N loads at 2 Hz at a 30° angle) and thermocycling (10,000 cycles, 5 to 50 °C, dwelling time 55 s), the implant–abutment microgap was measured 14 times at each of the four anatomical aspects on each specimen by using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Kruskal–Wallis and pair-wise comparison were used to analyze the data (α = 0.05). Results: The SEM analysis revealed smaller microgaps with Co–Cr milled abutments (0.69–8.39 μm) followed by Zr abutments (0.12–6.57 μm), Co–Cr sintered (7.31–25.7 μm) and cast Co–Cr (1.68–85.97 μm). Statistically significant differences were found between milled and cast Co–Cr, milled and laser-sintered Co–Cr, and between Zr and cast and laser-sintered Co–Cr (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The material and the abutment fabrication technique affected the implant–abutment microgap magnitude. The Zr and the milled Co–Cr presented smaller microgaps. Although the CAD/CAM abutments presented the most favorable values, all tested groups had microgaps within a range of 10 to 150 μm.
Shrimp Oil Extracted from Shrimp Processing By-Product Is a Rich Source of Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Astaxanthin-Esters, and Reveals Potential Anti-Adipogenic Effects in 3T3-L1 Adipocytes
Authors: Phadtare Indrayani , Vaidya Hitesh , Hawboldt Kelly , Cheema Sukhinder Kaur
Published: April 2021

The province of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, generates tons of shrimp processing by-product every year. Shrimp contains omega (n)-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and astaxanthin (Astx), a potent antioxidant that exists in either free or esterified form (Astx-E). In this study, shrimp oil (SO) was extracted from the shrimp processing by-product using the Soxhlet method (hexane:acetone 2:3). The extracted SO was rich in phospholipids, n-3 PUFA, and Astx-E. The 3T3-L1 preadipocytes were differentiated to mature adipocytes in the presence or absence of various treatments for 8 days. The effects of SO were then investigated on fat accumulation, and the mRNA expression of genes involved in adipogenesis and lipogenesis in 3T3-L1 cells. The effects of fish oil (FO), in combination with Astx-E, on fat accumulation, and the mRNA expression of genes involved in adipogenesis and lipogenesis were also investigated. The SO decreased fat accumulation, compared to untreated cells, which coincided with lower mRNA expression of adipogenic and lipogenic genes. However, FO and FO + Astx-E increased fat accumulation, along with increased mRNA expression of adipogenic and lipogenic genes, and glucose transporter type 4 (Glut-4), compared to untreated cells. These findings have demonstrated that the SO is a rich source of n-3 PUFA and Astx-E, and has the potential to elicit anti-adipogenic effects. Moreover, the SO and FO appear to regulate adipogenesis and lipogenesis via independent pathways in 3T3-L1 cells.
Influences of Technological Parameters on Cross-Flow Nanofiltration of Cranberry Juice
Authors: Lai Dat Quoc , Tagashira Nobuhiro , Hagiwara Shoji , Nakajima Mitsutoshi , Kimura Toshinori , Nabetani Hiroshi
Published: April 2021

The paper focused on the influence of operative conditions on the separation of benzoic acid from 10 °Brix cranberry juice by cross-flow nanofiltration with a plate and frame pilot scale (DDS Lab Module Type 20 system). Six kinds of commercial nanofiltration membrane were investigated. The results showed that the rejection of benzoic acid was significantly lower than that of other components in cranberry juice, including sugars and other organic acids. In a range of 2–7.5 L/min, feed flow rate slightly affected the performance of nanofiltration. Higher temperatures resulted in higher permeate flux and lower rejection of benzoic acid, whereas rejection of sugar and organic acid was stable at a high value. In a range of 2.5–5.5, pH also significantly affected the separation of benzoic acid and negative rejection against benzoic acid was observed at pH 4.5 with some of the membranes. This implies that pH 4.5 is considered as an optimum pH for benzoic acid separation from cranberry juice. The lower permeate flux caused a lower rejection of benzoic acid and negative rejection of benzoic acid was observed at the low permeate flux. Pretreatment by ultrafiltration with CR61PP membranes could improve the permeate flux but insignificantly influenced the efficiency of separation. The results also indicated that NF99 and DK membranes can be effectively used to separate benzoic acid from cranberry juice.
Trimerization of the N-Terminal Tail of Zika Virus NS4A Protein: A Potential In Vitro Antiviral Screening Assay
Authors: To Janet , Torres Jaume
Published: April 2021

The nonstructural (NS) protein NS4A in flaviviruses is a membrane protein that is critical for virulence, and, among other roles, it participates in membrane morphogenesis. In dengue virus (DENV), the NS4A hydrophilic N–terminal tail, together with the first transmembrane domain, is involved in both homo-oligomerization and hetero–oligomerization with NS4B. In both DENV and Zika virus (ZIKV), this N-terminal tail (residues 1–48) forms a random coil in solution but becomes mostly α-helical upon interaction with detergents or lipid membranes. Herein, we show that a peptide from ZIKV NS4A that spans residues 4–58, which includes most of the N–terminal tail and a third of its first transmembrane domain, forms homotrimers in the absence of detergents or liposomes. After interaction with the latter, α–helical content increases, consistent with binding. The oligomeric size of NS4A is not known, as it has only been reported in SDS gels. Therefore, we propose that full-length NS4A forms homotrimers mediated by this region, and that disruption of the oligomerization of peptide ZIKV NS4A 4–58 in solution can potentially constitute the basis for an in vitro assay to discover antivirals.
Behavior of Inelastic and Plastic Strains in Coarse-Grained Ti49.3Ni50.7(at%) Alloy Deformed in B2 States
Authors: Zhapova Dorzhima , Grishkov Victor , Lotkov Aleksandr , Timkin Victor , Gusarenko Angelina , Rodionov Ivan
Published: April 2021

The regularities of the change in inelastic strain in coarse-grained samples of the Ti49.3Ni50.7 (at%) alloy are studied when the samples are given torsional strain in the state of the high-temperature B2 phase. During cooling and heating, the investigated samples underwent the B2–B19′ martensite transformation (MT); the temperature of the end of the reverse MT was Af = 273 K. It was found that at the temperature of isothermal cycles “loading-unloading” Af + 8 K, when the specimen is assigned a strain of 4%, the effect of superelasticity is observed. With an increase in the torsional strain, the shape memory effect is clearly manifested. It is assumed that the stabilization of the B19′ phase in unloaded samples is due to the appearance of dislocations during deformation due to high internal stresses at the interphase boundaries of the B2 phase and the martensite phase during MT. The appearance of dislocations during the loading of samples near the temperatures of forward and reverse MT can also be facilitated by the “softening” of the elastic moduli of the alloy in this temperature range. At a test temperature above Af + 26 K, the superelasticity effect dominates in the studied samples.
Isolation and Proteomics of the Insulin Secretory Granule
Authors: Norris Nicholas , Yau Belinda , Kebede Melkam Alamerew
Published: April 2021

Insulin, a vital hormone for glucose homeostasis is produced by pancreatic beta-cells and when secreted, stimulates the uptake and storage of glucose from the blood. In the pancreas, insulin is stored in vesicles termed insulin secretory granules (ISGs). In Type 2 diabetes (T2D), defects in insulin action results in peripheral insulin resistance and beta-cell compensation, ultimately leading to dysfunctional ISG production and secretion. ISGs are functionally dynamic and many proteins present either on the membrane or in the lumen of the ISG may modulate and affect different stages of ISG trafficking and secretion. Previously, studies have identified few ISG proteins and more recently, proteomics analyses of purified ISGs have uncovered potential novel ISG proteins. This review summarizes the proteins identified in the current ISG proteomes from rat insulinoma INS-1 and INS-1E cell lines. Here, we also discuss techniques of ISG isolation and purification, its challenges and potential future directions.
Characterization of the Plasma Lipidome in Dairy Cattle Transitioning from Gestation to Lactation: Identifying Novel Biomarkers of Metabolic Impairment
Authors: Rico Jorge Eduardo , Saed Samii Sina , Zang Yu , Deme Pragney , Haughey Norman J. , Grilli Ester , McFadden Joseph W.
Published: April 2021

The discovery of novel biomarkers for peripartal diseases in dairy cows can improve our understanding of normal and dysfunctional metabolism, and lead to nutritional interventions that improve health and milk production. Our objectives were to characterize the plasma lipidome and identify metabolites associated with common markers of metabolic disease in peripartal dairy cattle. Multiparous Holstein cows (n = 27) were enrolled 30 d prior to expected parturition. Blood and liver samples were routinely collected through to d 14 postpartum. Untargeted lipidomics was performed using quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Based on postpartum measures, cows were categorized into low or high total fatty acid area under the curve (total FAAUC; d 1–14 postpartum; 4915 ± 1369 vs. 12,501 ± 2761 (μmol/L × 14 d); n = 18), β-hydroxybutyrate AUC (BHBAAUC; d 1–14 postpartum; 4583 ± 459 vs. 7901 ± 1206 (μmol/L × 14 d); n = 18), or liver lipid content (d 5 and 14 postpartum; 5 ± 1 vs. 12 ± 2% of wet weight; n = 18). Cows displayed decreases in plasma triacylglycerols and monoalkyl-diacylglycerols, and the majority of phospholipids reached a nadir at parturition. Phosphatidylcholines (PC) 32:3, 35:5, and 37:5 were specific for high total FAAUC, PC 31:3, 32:3, 35:5, and 37:5 were specific for high BHBAAUC, and PC 31:2, 31:3, and 32:3 were specific for high liver lipid content. PC 32:3 was specific for elevated total FA, BHBA, and liver lipid content. Lipidomics revealed a dynamic peripartal lipidome remodeling, and lipid markers associated with elevated total FA, BHBA, and liver lipid content. The effectiveness of nutrition to impact these lipid biomarkers for preventing excess lipolysis and fatty liver warrants evaluation.
A Study of Nanosilver Colloid Prepared by Electrical Spark Discharge Method and Its Antifungal Control Benefits
Authors: Tseng Kuo-Hsiung , Chung Meng-Yun , Chiu Juei-Long , Tseng Chao-Heng , Liu Chao-Yun
Published: April 2021

This is a study of an antimicrobial test, including yeast, Aspergillus Niger, and Aspergillus Flavus, on a nanosilver colloid solution. The antibiosis is compared with a standard silver ion solution at the same concentration as in the experimental process. This study proved that the nanosilver colloid prepared by the electrical spark discharge method (ESDM) is free of any chemical additives, has a microbial control effect, and that the effect is much better than the Ag+ standard solution at the same concentration. 3M Count Plate (YM) is used to test and observe the colony counts. The microbial control test for yeast, Aspergillus Niger, and Aspergillus Flavus is implemented in the nanosilver colloid. In addition to Aspergillus flavus, an Ag+ concentration of 16 ppm is enough to inhibit the growth of the samples. At the same concentration, the nanosilver colloid has a much better microbial control effect than the Ag+ standard solution, which may be because the nanoparticle can release Ag+ continuously, so the solution using the ESDM has a more significant microbial control effect.