bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultrasound-Assisted Preparation of Mo/ZSM-5 Zeolite Catalyst for Non-Oxidative Methane Dehydroaromatization
Authors: Ramirez-Mendoza Heidy , Valdez Lancinha Pereira Mafalda , Van Gerven Tom , Lutz Cécile , Julian Ignacio
Published: February 2021

The activity and selectivity of Mo/ZSM-5, benchmarking catalyst for the non-oxidative dehydroaromatization of methane, strongly depend on the cluster size, spatial distribution, and chemical environment of the Mo-based active sites. This study discloses the use of an ultrasound-assisted ion-exchange (US-IE) technique as an alternative Mo/ZSM-5 synthesis procedure in order to promote metal dispersion along the zeolite framework. For this purpose, a plate transducer (91.8 kHz) is employed to transmit the ultrasonic irradiation (US) into the ion-exchange reactor. The physico-chemical properties and catalytic activity of samples prepared under the said irradiation procedure and traditional impregnation (IWI) method are critically evaluated. Characterization results suggest that US neither affects the crystalline structure nor the particle size of the parent zeolite. However, US-IE promotes molybdenum species dispersion, avoids clustering at the external fresh zeolite surface and enhances molybdate species anchoring to the zeolite framework with respect to IWI. Despite the improved metal dispersion, the catalytic activity between catalysts synthesized by US-IE and IWI is comparable. This suggests that the sole initial dispersion enhancement does not suffice to boost the catalyst productivity and further actions such ZSM-5 support and catalyst pre-conditioning are required. Nevertheless, the successful implementation of US-IE and the resulting metal dispersion enhancement pave the way toward the application of this technique to the synthesis of other dispersed catalysts and materials of interest.
Assembly and Cellular Exit of Coronaviruses: Hijacking an Unconventional Secretory Pathway from the Pre-Golgi Intermediate Compartment via the Golgi Ribbon to the Extracellular Space
Authors: Saraste Jaakko , Prydz Kristian
Published: February 2021

Coronaviruses (CoVs) assemble by budding into the lumen of the intermediate compartment (IC) at the endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-Golgi interface. However, why CoVs have chosen the IC as their intracellular site of assembly and how progeny viruses are delivered from this compartment to the extracellular space has remained unclear. Here we address these enigmatic late events of the CoV life cycle in light of recently described properties of the IC. Of particular interest are the emerging spatial and functional connections between IC elements and recycling endosomes (REs), defined by the GTPases Rab1 and Rab11, respectively. The establishment of IC-RE links at the cell periphery, around the centrosome and evidently also at the noncompact zones of the Golgi ribbon indicates that—besides traditional ER-Golgi communication—the IC also promotes a secretory process that bypasses the Golgi stacks, but involves its direct connection with the endocytic recycling system. The initial confinement of CoVs to the lumen of IC-derived large transport carriers and their preferential absence from Golgi stacks is consistent with the idea that they exit cells following such an unconventional route. In fact, CoVs may share this pathway with other intracellularly budding viruses, lipoproteins, procollagen, and/or protein aggregates experimentally introduced into the IC lumen.
Analysis of Programmed Cell Death and Senescence Markers in the Developing Retina of an Altricial Bird Species
Authors: Álvarez-Hernán Guadalupe , de Mera-Rodríguez José Antonio , Hernández-Núñez Ismael , Marzal Alfonso , Gañán Yolanda , Martín-Partido Gervasio , Rodríguez-León Joaquín , Francisco-Morcillo Javier
Published: February 2021

This study shows the distribution patterns of apoptotic cells and biomarkers of cellular senescence during the ontogeny of the retina in the zebra finch (T. guttata). Neurogenesis in this altricial bird species is intense in the retina at perinatal and post-hatching stages, as opposed to precocial bird species in which retinogenesis occurs entirely during the embryonic period. Various phases of programmed cell death (PCD) were distinguishable in the T. guttata visual system. These included areas of PCD in the central region of the neuroretina at the stages of optic cup morphogenesis, and in the sub-optic necrotic centers (St15–St20). A small focus of early neural PCD was detected in the neuroblastic layer, dorsal to the optic nerve head, coinciding with the appearance of the first differentiated neuroblasts (St24–St25). There were sparse pyknotic bodies in the non-laminated retina between St26 and St37. An intense wave of neurotrophic PCD was detected in the laminated retina between St42 and P8, the last post-hatching stage included in the present study. PCD was absent from the photoreceptor layer. Phagocytic activity was also detected in Müller cells during the wave of neurotrophic PCD. With regard to the chronotopographical staining patterns of senescence biomarkers, there was strong parallelism between the SA-β-GAL signal and p21 immunoreactivity in both the undifferentiated and the laminated retina, coinciding in the cell body of differentiated neurons. In contrast, no correlation was found between SA-β-GAL activity and the distribution of TUNEL-positive cells in the developing tissue.
Collision of a Positron with the Capture of an Electron from Lithium and the Effect of a Magnetic Field on the Particles Balance
Authors: Orlenko Elena , Evstafev Alexandr , Orlenko Fedor
Published: February 2021

The processes of scattering slow positrons with the possible formation of positronium play an important role in the diagnosis of both composite materials, including semiconductor materials, and for the analysis of images obtained by positron tomography of living tissues. In this paper, we consider the processes of scattering positrons with the capture of an electron and the formation of positronium. When calculating the cross-section for the capture reaction, exchange effects caused by the rearrangement of electrons between colliding particles are taken into account. Comparison of the results of calculating the cross-section with a similar problem of electron capture by a proton showed that the mass effect is important in such a collision process. The loss of an electron by a lithium atom is more effective when it collides with a positron than with a proton or alpha particles. The dynamic equilibrium of the formation of positronium in the presence of a strong magnetic field is considered. It is shown that a strong magnetic field during tomography investigation shifts the dynamic equilibrium to the positronium concentration followed by positron annihilation with radiation of three gamma-quants.
Linear Weighted Regression and Energy-Aware Greedy Scheduling for Heterogeneous Big Data
Authors: Kallam Suresh , Patan Rizwan , Ramana Tathapudi V. , Gandomi Amir H.
Published: February 2021

Data are presently being produced at an increased speed in different formats, which complicates the design, processing, and evaluation of the data. The MapReduce algorithm is a distributed file system that is used for big data parallel processing. Current implementations of MapReduce assist in data locality along with robustness. In this study, a linear weighted regression and energy-aware greedy scheduling (LWR-EGS) method were combined to handle big data. The LWR-EGS method initially selects tasks for an assignment and then selects the best available machine to identify an optimal solution. With this objective, first, the problem was modeled as an integer linear weighted regression program to choose tasks for the assignment. Then, the best available machines were selected to find the optimal solution. In this manner, the optimization of resources is said to have taken place. Then, an energy efficiency-aware greedy scheduling algorithm was presented to select a position for each task to minimize the total energy consumption of the MapReduce job for big data applications in heterogeneous environments without a significant performance loss. To evaluate the performance, the LWR-EGS method was compared with two related approaches via MapReduce. The experimental results showed that the LWR-EGS method effectively reduced the total energy consumption without producing large scheduling overheads. Moreover, the method also reduced the execution time when compared to state-of-the-art methods. The LWR-EGS method reduced the energy consumption, average processing time, and scheduling overhead by 16%, 20%, and 22%, respectively, compared to existing methods.
Assessments of Real-Time Communications over TSN Automotive Networks
Authors: Lo Bello Lucia , Patti Gaetano , Vasta Giancarlo
Published: February 2021

The IEEE 802.1Q-2018 standard embeds in Ethernet bridges novel features that are very important for automated driving, such as the support for time-driven communications. However, cars move in a world where unpredictable events may occur and determine unforeseen situations. To properly react to such situations, the in-car communication system has to support event-driven transmissions with very low and bounded delays. This work provides the performance evaluation of EDSched, a traffic management scheme for IEEE 802.1Q bridges and end nodes that introduces explicit support for event-driven real-time traffic. EDSched works at the MAC layer and builds upon the mechanisms defined in the IEEE 802.1Q-2018 standard.
A Mathematical Study of Barcelona Metro Network
Authors: Mariñas-Collado Irene , Frutos Bernal Elisa , Santos Martin Maria Teresa , Martín del Rey Angel , Casado Vara Roberto , Gil-González Ana Belen
Published: February 2021

The knowledge of the topological structure and the automatic fare collection systems in urban public transport produce many data that need to be adequately analyzed, processed and presented. These data provide a powerful tool to improve the quality of transport services and plan ahead. This paper aims at studying, from a mathematical and statistical point of view, the Barcelona metro network; specifically: (1) the structural and robustness characteristics of the transportation network are computed and analyzed considering the complex network analysis; and (2) the common characteristics of the different subway stations of Barcelona, based on the passenger hourly entries, are identified through hierarchical clustering analysis. These results will be of great help in planning and restructuring transport to cope with the new social conditions, after the pandemic.
SACN: A Novel Rotating Face Detector Based on Architecture Search
Authors: Song Anping , Xu Xiaokang , Zhai Xinyi
Published: February 2021

Rotation-Invariant Face Detection (RIPD) has been widely used in practical applications; however, the problem of the adjusting of the rotation-in-plane (RIP) angle of the human face still remains. Recently, several methods based on neural networks have been proposed to solve the RIP angle problem. However, these methods have various limitations, including low detecting speed, model size, and detecting accuracy. To solve the aforementioned problems, we propose a new network, called the Searching Architecture Calibration Network (SACN), which utilizes architecture search, fully convolutional network (FCN) and bounding box center cluster (CC). SACN was tested on the challenging Multi-Oriented Face Detection Data Set and Benchmark (MOFDDB) and achieved a higher detecting accuracy and almost the same speed as existing detectors. Moreover, the average angle error is optimized from the current 12.6° to 10.5°.
An Introductory Tutorial on Brain–Computer Interfaces and Their Applications
Authors: Bonci Andrea , Fiori Simone , Higashi Hiroshi , Tanaka Toshihisa , Verdini Federica
Published: February 2021

The prospect and potentiality of interfacing minds with machines has long captured human imagination. Recent advances in biomedical engineering, computer science, and neuroscience are making brain–computer interfaces a reality, paving the way to restoring and potentially augmenting human physical and mental capabilities. Applications of brain–computer interfaces are being explored in applications as diverse as security, lie detection, alertness monitoring, gaming, education, art, and human cognition augmentation. The present tutorial aims to survey the principal features and challenges of brain–computer interfaces (such as reliable acquisition of brain signals, filtering and processing of the acquired brainwaves, ethical and legal issues related to brain–computer interface (BCI), data privacy, and performance assessment) with special emphasis to biomedical engineering and automation engineering applications. The content of this paper is aimed at students, researchers, and practitioners to glimpse the multifaceted world of brain–computer interfacing.
A Proposal of Accessibility Guidelines for Human-Robot Interaction
Authors: Qbilat Malak , Iglesias Ana , Belpaeme Tony
Published: February 2021

We will increasingly become dependent on automation to support our manufacturing and daily living, and robots are likely to take an important place in this. Unfortunately, currently not all the robots are accessible for all users. This is due to the different characteristics of users, as users with visual, hearing, motor or cognitive disabilities were not considered during the design, implementation or interaction phase, causing accessibility barriers to users who have limitations. This research presents a proposal for accessibility guidelines for human-robot interaction (HRI). The guidelines have been evaluated by seventeen HRI designers and/or developers. A questionnaire of nine five-point Likert Scale questions and 6 open-ended questions was developed to evaluate the proposed guidelines for developers and designers, in terms of four main factors: usability, social acceptance, user experience and social impact. The questions act as indicators for each factor. The majority (15 of 17 participants) agreed that the guidelines are helpful for them to design and implement accessible robot interfaces and applications. Some of them had considered some ad hoc guidelines in their design practice, but none of them showed awareness of or had applied all the proposed guidelines in their design practice, 72% of the proposed guidelines have been applied by less than or equal to 8 participants for each guideline. Moreover, 16 of 17 participants would use the proposed guidelines in their future robot designs or evaluation. The participants recommended the importance of aligning the proposed guidelines with safety requirements, environment of interaction (indoor or outdoor), cost and users’ expectations.
Revisiting the Functional Zoning Concept under Climate Change to Expand the Portfolio of Adaptation Options
Authors: Royer-Tardif Samuel , Bauhus Jürgen , Doyon Frédérik , Nolet Philippe , Thiffault Nelson , Aubin Isabelle
Published: February 2021

Climate change is threatening our ability to manage forest ecosystems sustainably. Despite strong consensus on the need for a broad portfolio of options to face this challenge, diversified management options have yet to be widely implemented. Inspired by functional zoning, a concept aimed at optimizing biodiversity conservation and wood production in multiple-use forest landscapes, we present a portfolio of management options that intersects management objectives with forest vulnerability to better address the wide range of goals inherent to forest management under climate change. Using this approach, we illustrate how different adaptation options could be implemented when faced with impacts related to climate change and its uncertainty. These options range from establishing ecological reserves in climatic refuges, where self-organizing ecological processes can result in resilient forests, to intensive plantation silviculture that could ensure a stable wood supply in an uncertain future. While adaptation measures in forests that are less vulnerable correspond to the traditional functional zoning management objectives, forests with higher vulnerability might be candidates for transformative measures as they may be more susceptible to abrupt changes in structure and composition. To illustrate how this portfolio of management options could be applied, we present a theoretical case study for the eastern boreal forest of Canada. Even if these options are supported by solid evidence, their implementation across the landscape may present some challenges and will require good communication among stakeholders and with the public.
Hydrodynamics of Prey Capture and Transportation in Choanoflagellates
Authors: Sørensen Siv , Asadzadeh Seyed Saeed , Walther Jens Honoré
Published: February 2021

Choanoflagellates are unicellular microscopic organisms that are believed to be the closest living relatives of animals. They prey on bacteria through the act of the continuous beating of their flagellum, which generates a current through a crown-like filter. Subsequently, the filter retains bacterial particles from the suspension. The mechanism by which the prey is retained and transported along the filter remains unknown. We report here on the hydrodynamic effects on the transportability of bacterial prey of finite size using computational fluid dynamics. Here, the loricate choanoflagellate Diaphaoneca grandis serves as the model organism. The lorica is a basket-like structure found in only some of the species of choanoflagellates. We find that although transportation does not entirely rely on hydrodynamic forces, such forces positively contribute to the transportation of prey along the collar filter. The aiding effects are most possible in non-loricate choanoflagellate species, as compared to loricate species. As hydrodynamic effects are strongly linked to the beat and shape of the flagellum, our results indicate an alternative mechanism for prey transportation, especially in biological systems where having an active transport mechanism is costly or not feasible. This suggests an additional potential role for flagella in addition to providing propulsion and generating feeding currents.
Seasonal Variations of Pollinator Assemblages among Urban and Rural Habitats: A Comparative Approach Using a Standardized Plant Community
Authors: Zaninotto Vincent , Perrard Adrien , Babiar Olivier , Hansart Amandine , Hignard Cécile , Dajoz Isabelle
Published: February 2021

Even though urban green spaces may host a relatively high diversity of wild bees, urban environments impact the pollinator taxonomic and functional diversity in a way that is still misunderstood. Here, we provide an assessment of the taxonomic and functional composition of pollinator assemblages and their response to urbanization in the Paris region (France). We performed a spring-to-fall survey of insect pollinators in green spaces embedded in a dense urban matrix and in rural grasslands, using a plant setup standardized across sites and throughout the seasons. We compared pollinator species composition and the occurrence of bee functional traits over the two habitats. There was no difference in species richness between habitats, though urban assemblages were dominated by very abundant generalist species and displayed a lower evenness. They also included fewer brood parasitic, solitary or ground-nesting bees. Overall, bees tended to be larger in the city than in the semi-natural grasslands, and this trait exhibited seasonal variations. The urban environment filters out some life history traits of insect pollinators and alters their seasonal patterns, likely as a result of the fragmentation and scarcity of feeding and nesting resources. This could have repercussions on pollination networks and the efficiency of the pollination function.
A 2D Optimal Path Planning Algorithm for Autonomous Underwater Vehicle Driving in Unknown Underwater Canyons
Authors: Sun Yushan , Luo Xiaokun , Ran Xiangrui , Zhang Guocheng
Published: February 2021

This research aims to solve the safe navigation problem of autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) in deep ocean, which is a complex and changeable environment with various mountains. When an AUV reaches the deep sea navigation, it encounters many underwater canyons, and the hard valley walls threaten its safety seriously. To solve the problem on the safe driving of AUV in underwater canyons and address the potential of AUV autonomous obstacle avoidance in uncertain environments, an improved AUV path planning algorithm based on the deep deterministic policy gradient (DDPG) algorithm is proposed in this work. This method refers to an end-to-end path planning algorithm that optimizes the strategy directly. It takes sensor information as input and driving speed and yaw angle as outputs. The path planning algorithm can reach the predetermined target point while avoiding large-scale static obstacles, such as valley walls in the simulated underwater canyon environment, as well as sudden small-scale dynamic obstacles, such as marine life and other vehicles. In addition, this research aims at the multi-objective structure of the obstacle avoidance of path planning, modularized reward function design, and combined artificial potential field method to set continuous rewards. This research also proposes a new algorithm called deep SumTree-deterministic policy gradient algorithm (SumTree-DDPG), which improves the random storage and extraction strategy of DDPG algorithm experience samples. According to the importance of the experience samples, the samples are classified and stored in combination with the SumTree structure, high-quality samples are extracted continuously, and SumTree-DDPG algorithm finally improves the speed of the convergence model. Finally, this research uses Python language to write an underwater canyon simulation environment and builds a deep reinforcement learning simulation platform on a high-performance computer to conduct simulation learning training for AUV. Data simulation verified that the proposed path planning method can guide the under-actuated underwater robot to navigate to the target without colliding with any obstacles. In comparison with the DDPG algorithm, the stability, training’s total reward, and robustness of the improved Sumtree-DDPG algorithm planner in this study are better.
Characterization of Alternaria Species Associated with Heart Rot of Pomegranate Fruit
Authors: Aloi Francesco , Riolo Mario , Sanzani Simona Marianna , Mincuzzi Annamaria , Ippolito Antonio , Siciliano Ilenia , Pane Antonella , Gullino Maria Lodovica , Cacciola Santa Olga
Published: February 2021

This study was aimed at identifying Alternaria species associated with heart rot disease of pomegranate fruit in southern Italy and characterizing their mycotoxigenic profile. A total of 42 Alternaria isolates were characterized. They were obtained from pomegranate fruits with symptoms of heart rot sampled in Apulia and Sicily and grouped into six distinct morphotypes based on macro- and microscopic features. According to multigene phylogenetic analysis, including internal transcribed spacer (ITS), translation elongation factor 1-α (EF-1α), glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) and a SCAR marker (OPA10-2), 38 isolates of morphotypes 1 to 5 were identified as Alternaria alternata, while isolates of morphotype 6, all from Sicily, clustered within the Alternaria arborescens species complex. In particular, isolates of morphotype 1, the most numerous, clustered with the ex-type isolate of A. alternata, proving to belong to A. alternata. No difference in pathogenicity on pomegranate fruits was found between isolates of A. alternata and A. arborescens and among A. alternata isolates of different morphotypes. The toxigenic profile of isolates varied greatly: in vitro, all 42 isolates produced tenuazonic acid and most of them other mycotoxins, including alternariol, alternariol monomethyl ether, altenuene and tentoxin.
The Journal of Respiration (JoR): A New Open Access Journal Dedicated to the Timely Dissemination of Information Related to Thoracic Structures
Authors: Moran Cesar A.
Published: February 2021

Over the last decade, the amount of information pertaining to thoracic structures has been unprecedented [...]
Phase Transformation of Kaolin-Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag from Geopolymerization to Sintering Process
Authors: Jamil Noorina Hidayu , Abdullah Mohd. Mustafa Al Bakri , Che Pa Faizul , Hasmaliza Mohamad , W. Ibrahim Wan Mohd Arif , A. Aziz Ikmal Hakem , Jeż Bartłomiej , Nabiałek Marcin
Published: February 2021

The main objective of this research was to investigate the influence of curing temperature on the phase transformation, mechanical properties, and microstructure of the as-cured and sintered kaolin-ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) geopolymer. The curing temperature was varied, giving four different conditions; namely: Room temperature, 40, 60, and 80 °C. The kaolin-GGBS geopolymer was prepared, with a mixture of NaOH (8 M) and sodium silicate. The samples were cured for 14 days and sintered afterwards using the same sintering profile for all of the samples. The sintered kaolin-GGBS geopolymer that underwent the curing process at the temperature of 60 °C featured the highest strength value: 8.90 MPa, and a densified microstructure, compared with the other samples. The contribution of the Na2O in the geopolymerization process was as a self-fluxing agent for the production of the geopolymer ceramic at low temperatures.
Novel Targeted Therapies for Advanced Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Rizzo Alessandro , Brandi Giovanni
Published: February 2021

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) includes a group of rare and aggressive hepatobiliary malignancies, including extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (eCCA) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA), with the former further subdivided into distal (dCCA) and perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (pCCA) [...]
The Role of Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography (OCTA) in Detecting Choroidal Neovascularization in Different Stages of Best Macular Dystrophy: A Case Series
Authors: Qaseem Yaqoob , German Olga , Cicinelli Maria Vittoria , Mirza Rukhsana G.
Published: February 2021

Best macular dystrophy (BMD) is an autosomal dominant macular dystrophy of childhood onset characterized by bilateral and symmetric vitelliform lesions. Several stages of disease have been well-described in the literature. Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) has traditionally been considered a hallmark of end-stage disease, and anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) agents have been used to improve visual prognosis. While CNV was historically detected with fluorescein angiography, optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) has recently been employed as a novel mechanism for identifying CNV in BMD. In this case series, we discuss our institutional experience with using OCTA to detect CNV in BMD and contextualize this experience within the broader emerging literature. While OCTA allows for the identification of CNV in less severe stages of BMD, the management of this CNV remains uncertain.
A Scoping Review of Neuromodulation Techniques in Neurodegenerative Diseases: A Useful Tool for Clinical Practice?
Authors: Marson Fabio , Lasaponara Stefano , Cavallo Marco
Published: February 2021

Background and Objectives: Neurodegenerative diseases that typically affect the elderly such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and frontotemporal dementia are typically characterised by significant cognitive impairment that worsens significantly over time. To date, viable pharmacological options for the cognitive symptoms in these clinical conditions are lacking. In recent years, various studies have employed neuromodulation techniques to try and contrast patients’ decay. Materials and Methods: We conducted an in-depth literature review of the state-of-the-art of the contribution of these techniques across these neurodegenerative diseases. Results: The present review reports that neuromodulation techniques targeting cognitive impairment do not allow to draw yet any definitive conclusion about their clinical efficacy although preliminary evidence is very encouraging. Conclusions: Further and more robust studies should evaluate the potentialities and limitations of the application of these promising therapeutic tools to neurodegenerative diseases.
Automatic Detection and Classification of Steel Surface Defect Using Deep Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Wang Shuai , Xia Xiaojun , Ye Lanqing , Yang Binbin
Published: February 2021

Automatic detection of steel surface defects is very important for product quality control in the steel industry. However, the traditional method cannot be well applied in the production line, because of its low accuracy and slow running speed. The current, popular algorithm (based on deep learning) also has the problem of low accuracy, and there is still a lot of room for improvement. This paper proposes a method combining improved ResNet50 and enhanced faster region convolutional neural networks (faster R-CNN) to reduce the average running time and improve the accuracy. Firstly, the image input into the improved ResNet50 model, which add the deformable revolution network (DCN) and improved cutout to classify the sample with defects and without defects. If the probability of having a defect is less than 0.3, the algorithm directly outputs the sample without defects. Otherwise, the samples are further input into the improved faster R-CNN, which adds spatial pyramid pooling (SPP), enhanced feature pyramid networks (FPN), and matrix NMS. The final output is the location and classification of the defect in the sample or without defect in the sample. By analyzing the data set obtained in the real factory environment, the accuracy of this method can reach 98.2%. At the same time, the average running time is faster than other models.
Experimental Apparent Stern–Geary Coefficients for AZ31B Mg Alloy in Physiological Body Fluids for Accurate Corrosion Rate Determination
Authors: García-Galvan Federico R. , Fajardo Santiago , Barranco Violeta , Feliu Sebastián
Published: February 2021

The corrosion behavior of AZ31B Mg alloy exposed to Ringer’s, phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), Hank’s, and simulated body fluid (SBF) solutions for 4 days was investigated using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), potentiodynamic polarization, weight loss, and surface characterization. Changes in corrosion rates with immersion time determined by weight loss measurements were compared with EIS data to determine the possibility of obtaining quantitative electrochemical information. In addition, changes in the protective properties of the corrosion product layer calculated from the EIS parameters were evaluated as a function of their surface chemical composition as determined by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and visual observations of the corroded specimen’s surface. Apparent Stern–Geary coefficients for the AZ31B Mg alloy in each test solution were calculated using the relationship between icorr from weight loss measurements and the EIS data (both Rp and Rt). This provided experimental reference B′ values that may be used as a useful tool in independent investigations to improve the accuracy of corrosion rates of AZ31B Mg alloy in simulated body solutions.
Lipidomics Revealed Aberrant Metabolism of Lipids Including FAHFAs in Renal Tissue in the Progression of Lupus Nephritis in a Murine Model
Authors: Hu Changfeng , Du Yu , Xu Xiaofen , Li Haichang , Duan Qiao , Xie Zhijun , Wen Chengping , Han Xianlin
Published: February 2021

Lupus nephritis (LN) is an inflammatory renal disease of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus with lots of immune complexes deposited in kidneys. Accumulated studies have demonstrated the close relationships among dyslipidaemia, inflammation, and autoimmune response, and oxidative stress in the patients. Lipids play numerous important roles in biological process and cellular functions. Herein, shotgun lipidomics was employed to quantitatively analyze cellular lipidomes in the renal tissue of MRL/lpr mice in the progression of LN (including pre-LN and LN state) with/without treated with glucocorticoids (GCs). The levels of cytokines (i.e., TNF-α (Tumor necrosis factor alpha) and IL-6 (Interleukin 6)) in the serum were measured by ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) kits. Renal histopathological changes and C3 deposition in the glomeruli of the mice were also determined. Lipidomics analysis revealed that the ectopic fat deposition and the aberrant metabolism of lipids that were relevant to oxidative stress (e.g., 4-hydroxyalkenal, ceramide, lysophospholipid species, etc.) always existed in the development of LN. Moreover, the anti-inflammatory FAHFA (fatty acid ester of hydroxyl fatty acid) species in the kidney tissue could largely reflect the severity of LN. Thus, they were a potential early biomarker for LN. In addition, the study also revealed that treatment with GCs could prevent the progression of LN, but greatly aggravate the aberrant metabolism of the lipids, particularly when used for a long time.
Two-Dimensional MoS2: Structural Properties, Synthesis Methods, and Regulation Strategies toward Oxygen Reduction
Authors: Xu Hanwen , Zhu Jiawei , Ma Qianli , Ma Jingjing , Bai Huawei , Chen Lei , Mu Shichun
Published: February 2021

Compared with three-dimensional (3D) and other materials, two-dimensional (2D) materials with unique properties such as high specific surface area, structurally adjustable band structure, and electromagnetic properties have attracted wide attention. In recent years, great progress has been made for 2D MoS2 in the field of electrocatalysis, and its exposed unsaturated edges are considered to be active sites of electrocatalytic reactions. In this review, we focus on the latest progress of 2D MoS2 in the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) that has not received much attention. First, the basic properties of 2D MoS2 and its advantages in the ORR are introduced. Then, the synthesis methods of 2D MoS2 are summarized, and specific strategies for optimizing the performance of 2D MoS2 in ORRs, and the challenges and opportunities faced are discussed. Finally, the future of the 2D MoS2-based ORR catalysts is explored.
Reaction Characteristics and Existing Form of Phosphorus during Coal-Based Reduction of Oolitic Iron Ore
Authors: Jin Jianping , Zhou Wentao , Sun Yongsheng , Han Yuexin , Li Yanjun
Published: February 2021

It is particularly significant to investigate the reduction behavior and existing form of phosphorus in metal and slag phase during coal-based reduction for the efficient development and utilization of high-phosphorus oolitic hematite. The reduction behavior of phosphorus minerals and their existing form in the metal and slag phase during the coal-based reduction of high phosphorus oolitic hematite were systematically investigated using HSC software simulation, thermodynamic calculation, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive spectrometry (EDS). The results show that after Fe2O3 was reduced to metal iron, the reduction of apatite was promoted by providing the most inclined enrichment site of phosphorus (metallographic phase). Phosphorus existed mainly in two forms in the metal phase—one was in the form of Fe3P compound at the boundary of the metal phase, and the other was in the form of solid solution in the metal iron. There were two forms of phosphorus in the slag phase—one was incompletely reacted apatite, and the other was formed as CaO–SiO2–P2O5 solid solution. In the early stage of coal-based reduction, phosphorus in the slag phase mainly existed in the form of apatite, while in the later stage, it mainly existed in the form of CaO–SiO2–P2O5 solid solution.
Synthesis of Chromeno[3,4-b]piperazines by an Enol-Ugi/Reduction/Cyclization Sequence
Authors: Bornadiego Ana , Neo Ana G. , Marcos Carlos F.
Published: February 2021

Keto piperazines and aminocoumarins are privileged building blocks for the construction of geometrically constrained peptides and therefore valuable structures in drug discovery. Combining these two heterocycles provides unique rigid polycyclic peptidomimetics with drug-like properties including many points of diversity that could be modulated to interact with different biological receptors. This work describes an efficient multicomponent approach to condensed chromenopiperazines based on the novel enol-Ugi reaction. Importantly, this strategy involves the first reported post-condensation transformation of an enol-Ugi adduct.
Assessment of Protein Intake in the First Three Months after Sleeve Gastrectomy in Patients with Severe Obesity
Authors: Bertoni Lucrezia , Valentini Romina , Zattarin Alessandra , Belligoli Anna , Bettini Silvia , Vettor Roberto , Foletto Mirto , Spinella Paolo , Busetto Luca
Published: February 2021

An adequate protein intake prevents the loss of fat-free mass during weight loss. Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (SG) jeopardizes protein intake due to post-operative dietary restriction and intolerance to protein-rich foods. The purpose of this study is to evaluate protein intake in the first three months after SG. We evaluated, 1 month and 3 months after surgery, 47 consecutive patients treated with SG. Protein intake, both from foods and from protein supplementation, was assessed through a weekly dietary record. Patients consumed 30.0 ± 10.2 g of protein/day on average from foods in the first month, with a significant increase to 34.9 ± 4.8 g of protein/day in the third month (p = 0.003). The use of protein supplementation significantly increased total protein intake to 42.3 ± 15.9 g protein/day (p < 0.001) in the first month and to 39.6 ± 14.2 g of protein/day (p = 0.002) in the third one. Compliance with supplement consumption was 63.8% in the first month and only 21.3% in the third month. In conclusion, both one and three months after SG, protein intake from foods was not sufficient. The use of modular supplements seems to have a significant impact on protein intake, but nevertheless it remains lower than recommended.
Current Insights into 3D Bioprinting: An Advanced Approach for Eye Tissue Regeneration
Authors: Ruiz-Alonso Sandra , Villate-Beitia Ilia , Gallego Idoia , Lafuente-Merchan Markel , Puras Gustavo , Saenz-del-Burgo Laura , Pedraz José Luis
Published: February 2021

Three-dimensional (3D) printing is a game changer technology that holds great promise for a wide variety of biomedical applications, including ophthalmology. Through this emerging technique, specific eye tissues can be custom-fabricated in a flexible and automated way, incorporating different cell types and biomaterials in precise anatomical 3D geometries. However, and despite the great progress and possibilities generated in recent years, there are still challenges to overcome that jeopardize its clinical application in regular practice. The main goal of this review is to provide an in-depth understanding of the current status and implementation of 3D bioprinting technology in the ophthalmology field in order to manufacture relevant tissues such as cornea, retina and conjunctiva. Special attention is paid to the description of the most commonly employed bioprinting methods, and the most relevant eye tissue engineering studies performed by 3D bioprinting technology at preclinical level. In addition, other relevant issues related to use of 3D bioprinting for ocular drug delivery, as well as both ethical and regulatory aspects, are analyzed. Through this review, we aim to raise awareness among the research community and report recent advances and future directions in order to apply this advanced therapy in the eye tissue regeneration field.
Understanding the Barrier and Mechanical Behavior of Different Nanofillers in Chitosan Films for Food Packaging
Authors: Pires João , Paula Camila Damásio de , Souza Victor Gomes Lauriano , Fernando Ana Luísa , Coelhoso Isabel
Published: February 2021

The continuous petroleum-based plastics manufacturing generates disposal issues, spreading the problem of plastic pollution and its rise in the environment. Recently, innovative techniques and scientific research promoted biopolymers as the primary alternative for traditional plastics, raising and expanding global bioplastic production. Due to its unmatched biological and functional attributes, chitosan (Ch) has been substantially explored and employed as a biopolymeric matrix. Nevertheless, the hydrophilicity and the weak mechanical properties associated with this biopolymer represent a significant intrinsic restriction to its implementation into some commercial applications, namely, in food packaging industries. Distinct methodologies have been utilized to upgrade the mechanical and barrier properties of Ch, such as using organic or inorganic nanofillers, crosslinkers, or blends with other polymers. This review intends to analyze the most recent works that combine the action of different nanoparticle types with Ch films to reinforce their mechanical and barrier properties.
Cross-Linking Strategies for Fluorine-Containing Polymer Coatings for Durable Resistant Water- and Oil-Repellency
Authors: Kredel Julia , Schmitt Deborah , Schäfer Jan-Lukas , Biesalski Markus , Gallei Markus
Published: February 2021

Functional coatings for application on surfaces are of growing interest. Especially in the textile industry, durable water and oil repellent finishes are of special demand for implementation in the outdoor sector, but also as safety-protection clothes against oil or chemicals. Such oil and chemical repellent textiles can be achieved by coating surfaces with fluoropolymers. As many concerns exist regarding (per)fluorinated polymers due to their high persistence and accumulation capacity in the environment, a durable and resistant coating is essential also during the washing processes of textiles. Within the present study, different strategies are examined for a durable resistant cross-linking of a novel fluoropolymer on the surface of fibers. The monomer 2-((1,1,2-trifluoro-2-(perfluoropropoxy)ethyl)thio)ethyl acrylate, whose fluorinated side-chain is degradable by treatment with ozone, was used for this purpose. The polymers were synthesized via free radical polymerization in emulsion, and different amounts of cross-linking reagents were copolymerized. The final polymer dispersions were applied to cellulose fibers and the cross-linking was induced thermally or by irradiation with UV-light. In order to investigate the cross-linking efficiency, tensile elongation studies were carried out. In addition, multiple washing processes of the fibers were performed and the polymer loss during washing, as well as the effects on oil and water repellency were investigated. The cross-linking strategy paves the way to a durable fluoropolymer-based functional coating and the polymers are expected to provide a promising and sustainable alternative to functional coatings.
Flavonoids Induce Migration Arrest and Apoptosis in Detroit 562 Oropharynx Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Dziedzic Arkadiusz , Kubina Robert , Wojtyczka Robert D. , Tanasiewicz Marta , Varoni Elena Maria , Iriti Marcello
Published: February 2021

Despite advances in the treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), the morbidity remains at a high level due to the resistance of SCC cells to chemotherapeutics. This study aimed to determine and compare the magnitude of the flavonoids’ effectiveness in activating apoptosis and migration arrest in HNSCC cells in vitro. Methods: Head and neck SCC cells of the Detroit 562 line were exposed to a range of concentrations (5–100 μM) of quercetin (Que), hesperidin (Hes) and rutin (Rut) for 24 and 48 h. The SCC cell viability and migration rate were investigated using cytotoxicity and migration inhibition assays. Muse Cell Analyzer flow cytometry was utilized to quantitatively assess the apoptosis rate of Detroit 562 cells exposed to Que, Hes and Rut. The morphology of the SCC cells was evaluated via hematoxylin-eosin staining. Results: The viability diminishment of the Detroit 562-line cells treated with Que, Hes and Rut for 48 h revealed a significant dose-dependent trend, relatively equal for three substances, whereas the most noticeable cytotoxic effect observed for Hes. Exposure to Hes and Rut exhibited a dose-dependent increased proportion of apoptotic SCC cells, at either necrosis or late apoptosis stage. Detroit 562 SCC migration rate and cells motility were halted for the 100 µM dose of Hes and Que. The comparative results elucidated that Hesperidin and Quercetin achieved a more potent reduction of Detroit 562 migration at 24 h. Conclusions: Hesperidin, rutin and quercetin are capable of inducing apoptosis and migration arrest in the Detroit 562 cell line to various extents, resulting in proapoptotic attenuating effects at different magnitudes.
Determination of Transformers’ Insulating Paper State Based on Classification Techniques
Authors: Ghoneim Sherif S. M.
Published: February 2021

The continuity of transformer operation is very necessary for utilities to maintain a continuity of power flow in networks and achieve a desired revenue. Most failures in a transformer are due to the degradation of the insulating system, which consists of insulating oil and paper. The degree of polymerization (DP) is a key detector of insulating paper state. Most research in the literature has computed the DP as a function of furan compounds, especially 2-furfuraldehyde (2-FAL). In this research, a prediction model was constructed based on some of most periodical tests that were conducted on transformer insulating oil, which were used as predictors of the insulating paper state. The tests evaluated carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), breakdown voltage (VBD), interfacial tension (IF), acidity (ACY), moisture (M), oil color (OC), and 2-furfuraldehyde (2-FAL). The DP, which was used as the key indicator for the paper state, was categorized into five classes labeled 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 to express the insulating paper normal aging rate, accelerating aging rate, excessive aging danger zone, high risk of failure, and the end of expected life, respectively. The classification techniques were applied to the collected data samples to construct a prediction model for the insulating paper state, and the results revealed that the fine tree was the best classifier of the data samples, with a 96.2% prediction accuracy.
A Study on Lap Joint Welding of Thin Plate ASTM F1684 Using Fiber Laser Welding
Authors: Kim Jaewoong , Kim Younghyun , Kim Jisun , Kim Yongtai , Kim Dongwoo , Kang Sungwook , Pyo Changmin
Published: February 2021

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has developed stricter regulations on emission standards for sulfur oxides, etc., and the demand for Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) is increasing as an alternative to satisfy these standards. This study relates to fiber laser welding, an approach which offers high-speed welding and low welding deformation for ASTM F1684, which has a low coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) even in a cryogenic environment. In this study, through three preliminary experiments using 0.25 mm thick Invar, the conditions required to secure sufficient penetration depth and back bead were identified. Through the cross-sectional observation analysis, the welding conditions without defects were identified and the trend of penetration shape according to increasing welding speed was identified. Following a lap joint laser welding experiment under the secured conditions, the mechanical properties were evaluated through the shear strength test and the heat influence range of a fiber laser was identified through the temperature measurement of a welding part. As a result, it was confirmed that the shear strength of the lap joint laser welding part was 86.8% that of the base metal.