bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A New Fast Ant Colony Optimization Algorithm: The Saltatory Evolution Ant Colony Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Li Shugang , Wei Yanfang , Liu Xin , Zhu He , Yu Zhaoxu
Published: March 2022

Various studies have shown that the ant colony optimization (ACO) algorithm has a good performance in approximating complex combinatorial optimization problems such as traveling salesman problem (TSP) for real-world applications. However, disadvantages such as long running time and easy stagnation still restrict its further wide application in many fields. In this study, a saltatory evolution ant colony optimization (SEACO) algorithm is proposed to increase the optimization speed. Different from the past research, this study innovatively starts from the perspective of near-optimal path identification and refines the domain knowledge of near-optimal path identification by quantitative analysis model using the pheromone matrix evolution data of the traditional ACO algorithm. Based on the domain knowledge, a near-optimal path prediction model is built to predict the evolutionary trend of the path pheromone matrix so as to fundamentally save the running time. Extensive experiment results on a traveling salesman problem library (TSPLIB) database demonstrate that the solution quality of the SEACO algorithm is better than that of the ACO algorithm, and it is more suitable for large-scale data sets within the specified time window. This means it can provide a promising direction to deal with the problem about slow optimization speed and low accuracy of the ACO algorithm.
Riemann Problems and Exact Solutions for the p-System
Authors: Manganaro Natale , Rizzo Alessandra
Published: March 2022

In this paper, within the framework of the Method of Differential Constraints, the celebrated p-system is studied. All the possible constraints compatible with the original governing system are classified. In solving the compatibility conditions between the original governing system and the appended differential constraint, several model laws for the pressure p(v) are characterised. Therefore, the analysis developed in the paper has been carried out in the case of physical interest where p=p0v−γ, and an exact solution that generalises simple waves is determined. This allows us to study and to solve a class of generalised Riemann problems (GRP). In particular, we proved that the solution of the GRP can be discussed in the (p,v) plane through rarefaction-like curves and shock curves. Finally, we studied a Riemann problem with structure and we proved the existence of a critical time after which a GRP is solved in terms of non-constant states separated by a shock wave and a rarefaction-like wave.
Towards a Benchmarking System for Comparing Automatic Hate Speech Detection with an Intelligent Baseline Proposal
Authors: Dascălu Ștefan , Hristea Florentina
Published: March 2022

Hate Speech is a frequent problem occurring among Internet users. Recent regulations are being discussed by U.K. representatives (“Online Safety Bill”) and by the European Commission, which plans on introducing Hate Speech as an “EU crime”. The recent legislation having passed in order to combat this kind of speech places the burden of identification on the hosting websites and often within a tight time frame (24 h in France and Germany). These constraints make automatic Hate Speech detection a very important topic for major social media platforms. However, recent literature on Hate Speech detection lacks a benchmarking system that can evaluate how different approaches compare against each other regarding the prediction made concerning different types of text (short snippets such as those present on Twitter, as well as lengthier fragments). This paper intended to deal with this issue and to take a step forward towards the standardization of testing for this type of natural language processing (NLP) application. Furthermore, this paper explored different transformer and LSTM-based models in order to evaluate the performance of multi-task and transfer learning models used for Hate Speech detection. Some of the results obtained in this paper surpassed the existing ones. The paper concluded that transformer-based models have the best performance on all studied Datasets.
Model and Mechanism of Anode Effect of an Electrochemical Cell for Nd or (Nd, Pr) Reduction
Authors: da Silva Andre Luiz Nunis , dos Santos Celia Aparecida Lino , de Araújo Rogério de Melo Riberio , Feldhaus Dominic , Friedrich Bernd , Landgraf Fernando José Gomes , Guardani Roberto
Published: March 2022

The anode effect can occur during neodymium and didymium oxide electrowinning, causing a surge in the electrochemical cell voltage, interrupting the process, and increasing the greenhouse gas emissions. In this work, we develop a mathematical model, based on the mass balance of gas bubbles evolving from the anode, to understand the influence of some process parameters on the anode effect. The anode effect occurs due to bubble coverage and limitations on the mass transfer of the oxide species. Variables such as current density, oxide content, viscosity, and electrolyte composition play an important role in the anodic process. Finally, we propose a mechanism for the occurrence of the anode effect during Nd or Di (Nd–Pr) oxide electrolytic reduction based on models used in aluminum electrolysis.
Metabolomic Characterisation of Discriminatory Metabolites Involved in Halo Blight Disease in Oat Cultivars Caused by Pseudomonas syringae pv. coronafaciens
Authors: Pretorius Chanel J. , Steenkamp Paul A. , Tugizimana Fidele , Piater Lizelle A. , Dubery Ian A.
Published: March 2022

The metabolome is the underlying biochemical layer of the phenotype and offers a functional readout of the cellular mechanisms involved in a biological system. Since metabolites are considered end-products of regulatory processes at a cellular level, their levels are considered the definitive response of the biological system to genetic or environmental variations. The metabolome thus serves as a metabolic fingerprint of the biochemical events that occur in a biological system under specific conditions. In this study, an untargeted metabolomics approach was applied to elucidate biochemical processes implicated in oat plant responses to Pseudomonas syringae pv. coronafaciens (Ps-c) infection, and to identify signatory markers related to defence responses and disease resistance against halo blight. Metabolic changes in two oat cultivars (“Dunnart” and “SWK001”) responding to Ps-c, were examined at the three-leaf growth stage and metabolome changes monitored over a four-day post-inoculation period. Hydromethanolic extracts were analysed using an ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) system coupled to a high-definition mass spectrometer (MS) analytical platform. The acquired multi-dimensional data were processed using multivariate statistical analysis and chemometric modelling. The validated chemometric models indicated time- and cultivar-related metabolic changes, defining the host response to the bacterial inoculation. Further multivariate analyses of the data were performed to profile differential signatory markers, putatively associated with the type of launched defence response. These included amino acids, phenolics, phenolic amides, fatty acids, flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, lipids, saponins and plant hormones. Based on the results, metabolic alterations involved in oat defence responses to Ps-c were elucidated and key signatory metabolic markers defining the defence metabolome were identified. The study thus contributes toward a more holistic understanding of the oat metabolism under biotic stress.
Reconfigurable Electronic Platforms: A Top-Down Approach to Learn about Design and Integration of Electronic Systems
Authors: Rivadeneyra Almudena , Romero Francisco J. , Haider Michael , Bhatt Vijay D. , Salmeron Jose F. , Rodriguez Noel , Morales Diego P. , Becherer Markus
Published: March 2022

This case report presents a real example of a study which introduces the use of reconfigurable platforms in the teaching of electronics engineering to establish a bridge between theory and practice. This gap is one of the major concerns of the electronics engineering students. Different strategies, such as simulation tools or breadboard implementations, have been followed so far to make it easier for students to practice what they study in lectures. However, many students still claim to have problems when they face real practical implementations. The use of reconfigurable platforms as a teaching tool is proposed to provide the students the possibility of fast experimentation, reducing both development time and the learning curve. In addition, reconfigurable platforms available on the market make this methodology suitable to be applied throughout the different courses of their curricula. The feasibility of this approach is demonstrated in a course at the M.Eng. level, where the objective is the study, design and development of electronic sensor nodes. We firmly consider, based on the students’ results and reflections collected during the course, that this methodology helps students to address the theoretical framework from a practical viewpoint, as well as to acquire some of the fundamental skills for their professional careers, such as the usage of communication protocols and embedded systems programming, in a more intuitive way when compared to traditional teaching methodologies.
Abundance, Diversity, and Function of Soil Microorganisms in Temperate Alley-Cropping Agroforestry Systems: A Review
Authors: Beule Lukas , Vaupel Anna , Moran-Rodas Virna Estefania
Published: March 2022

Modern temperate alley-cropping systems combine rows of trees with rows of crops (agroforestry), which allows for diverse interspecific interactions such as the complementary and competitive use of resources. The complementary use of resources between trees and crops is considered the main advantage of these multifunctional land use systems over cropland monocultures. Moreover, several studies demonstrated that agroforestry systems are environmentally more sustainable than cropland monocultures. Over two decades of research on soil microorganisms in temperate alley-cropping systems are characterized by a variety of different methodological approaches and study designs to investigate the impact of agroforestry on the soil microbiome. Here, we review the available literature on the abundance, diversity, and functionality of soil microorganisms in temperate alley-cropping systems. Further, we identify current knowledge gaps as well as important experimental factors to consider in future studies. Overall, we found that temperate alley-cropping systems increase soil microbial abundance, diversity, and functions as compared to cropland monocultures, which is expected to contribute to enhanced biological soil fertility in these systems.
Tryptone in Growth Media Enhances Pseudomonas putida Biofilm
Authors: Puhm Marge , Ainelo Hanna , Kivisaar Maia , Teras Riho
Published: March 2022

Extracellular factors and growth conditions can affect the formation and development of bacterial biofilms. The biofilm of Pseudomonas putida has been studied for decades, but so far, little attention has been paid to the components of the medium that may affect the biofilm development in a closed system. It is known that Fis strongly enhances biofilm in complete LB medium. However, this is not the case in the defined M9 medium, which led us to question why the bacterium behaves differently in these two media. Detailed analysis of the individual medium components revealed that tryptone as the LB proteinaceous component maintains biofilm in its older stages. Although the growth parameters of planktonic cells were similar in the media containing tryptone or an equivalent concentration of amino acids, only the tryptone had a positive effect on the mature biofilm of the wild type strain of P. putida. Thus, the peptides in the environment may influence mature biofilm as a structural factor and not only as an energy source. Testing the effect of other biopolymers on biofilm formation showed variable results even for polymers with a similar charge, indicating that biopolymers can affect P. putida biofilm through a number of bacterial factors.
Metabolic Engineering of Escherichia coli for Hyperoside Biosynthesis
Authors: Li Guosi , Zhu Fucheng , Wei Peipei , Xue Hailong , Chen Naidong , Lu Baowei , Deng Hui , Chen Cunwu , Yin Xinjian
Published: March 2022

Hyperoside (quercetin 3-O-galactoside) exhibits many biological functions, along with higher bioactivities than quercetin. In this study, three UDP-dependent glycosyltransferases (UGTs) were screened for efficient hyperoside synthesis from quercetin. The highest hyperoside production of 58.5 mg·L−1 was obtained in a recombinant Escherichia coli co-expressing UGT from Petunia hybrida (PhUGT) and UDP-glucose epimerase (GalE, a key enzyme catalyzing the conversion of UDP-glucose to UDP-galactose) from E. coli. When additional enzymes (phosphoglucomutase (Pgm) and UDP-glucose pyrophosphorylase (GalU)) were introduced into the recombinant E. coli, the increased flux toward UDP-glucose synthesis led to enhanced UDP-galactose-derived hyperoside synthesis. The efficiency of the recombinant strain was further improved by increasing the copy number of the PhUGT, which is a limiting step in the bioconversion. Through the optimization of the fermentation conditions, the production of hyperoside increased from 245.6 to 411.2 mg·L−1. The production was also conducted using a substrate-fed batch fermentation, and the maximal hyperoside production was 831.6 mg·L−1, with a molar conversion ratio of 90.2% and a specific productivity of 27.7 mg·L−1·h−1 after 30 h of fermentation. The efficient hyperoside synthesis pathway described here can be used widely for the glycosylation of other flavonoids and bioactive substances.
Thermodynamic Study on the Direct Reduction of Specularite by Lignite and the Coupling Process for the Preparation of Cementitious Material
Authors: Shi Ruimeng , Li Yifan , Mi Qiyuan , Zou Chong , Li Bin
Published: March 2022

To realize the efficient and comprehensive utilization of specularite resources, combined with the cement clinker production technology of rotary kilns, the coupling process of the direct reduction of specularite by lignite and the preparation of cementitious material was proposed, with the additional aim of achieving the reduction of iron oxide and transforming the gangue component into cementitious material. Thermodynamic software was used to calculate the product composition when the reaction reached equilibrium under the set conditions. By analyzing the influence of the ratio of C/O, basicity, temperature, and other parameters on the reduction of iron oxide and cementitious material generation, the feasibility of the process was judged and experimentally verified. The results showed that the coupling process of the direct reduction of specularite and the preparation of cementitious material was thermodynamically feasible when using highly volatile lignite with added calcium oxide. The optimal C/O ratio of the reducing agent was 1.2 for the complete reduction of iron oxide (Fe2O3, Fe3O4, FeO) without the gangue fraction; reduced iron could stably coexist with the cementitious material components, but the unreduced FeO would result in a substantial reduction in tricalcium silicate generation. Using lignite as a reducing agent, the hydrogen-rich volatiles in coal created a good reducing atmosphere, strengthened the reduction process of iron oxide, and provided favorable conditions for the generation of cementitious material. A two-stage heating system must be adopted to realize the reduction of iron oxide and the generation of cementitious material. The process parameters conducive to the reduction of specularite and cementitious materials were determined, the basicity range of the system was regulated to 2.4–3.3, the reasonable reduction temperature was close to and not higher than 1137 °C, and the optimal temperature of cementitious material generation was 1450 °C.
The Use of Constituent Spectra and Weighting in Extended Multiplicative Signal Correction in Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Solheim Johanne Heitmann , Zimmermann Boris , Tafintseva Valeria , Dzurendová Simona , Shapaval Volha , Kohler Achim
Published: March 2022

Extended multiplicative signal correction (EMSC) is a widely used preprocessing technique in infrared spectroscopy. EMSC is a model-based method favored for its flexibility and versatility. The model can be extended by adding constituent spectra to explicitly model-known analytes or interferents. This paper addresses the use of constituent spectra and demonstrates common pitfalls. It clarifies the difference between analyte and interferent spectra, and the importance of orthogonality between model spectra. Different normalization approaches are discussed, and the importance of weighting in the EMSC is demonstrated. The paper illustrates how constituent analyte spectra can be estimated, and how they can be used to extract additional information from spectral features. It is shown that the EMSC parameters can be used in both regression tasks and segmentation tasks.
Improved Method for Preparation of 3-(1H-Indol-3-yl)benzofuran-2(3H)-ones
Authors: Grishin Igor Yu. , Arutiunov Nikolai A. , Aksenov Dmitrii A. , Aksenov Nicolai A. , Aksenov Alexander V. , Gasanova Amina Z. , Sorokina Elena A. , Lower Carolyn , Rubin Michael
Published: March 2022

3-(1H-Indol-3-yl)benzofuran-2(3H)-ones were efficiently accessed via polyphosphoric acid-mediated condensation of 3-(2-nitrovinyl)-1H-indoles with phenols.
Computational Screening of Newly Designed Compounds against Coxsackievirus A16 and Enterovirus A71
Authors: Sripattaraphan Amita , Sanachai Kamonpan , Chavasiri Warinthorn , Boonyasuppayakorn Siwaporn , Maitarad Phornphimon , Rungrotmongkol Thanyada
Published: March 2022

Outbreaks of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) that occur worldwide are mainly caused by the Coxsackievirus-A16 (CV-A16) and Enterovirus-A71 (EV-A71). Unfortunately, neither an anti-HFMD drug nor a vaccine is currently available. Rupintrivir in phase II clinical trial candidate for rhinovirus showed highly potent antiviral activities against enteroviruses as an inhibitor for 3C protease (3Cpro). In the present study, we focused on designing 50 novel rupintrivir analogs against CV-A16 and EV-A71 3Cpro using computational tools. From their predicted binding affinities, the five compounds with functional group modifications at P1′, P2, P3, and P4 sites, namely P1′-1, P2-m3, P3-4, P4-5, and P4-19, could bind with both CV-A16 and EV-A71 3Cpro better than rupintrivir. Subsequently, these five analogs were studied by 500 ns molecular dynamics simulations. Among them, P2-m3, the derivative with meta-aminomethyl-benzyl group at the P2 site, showed the greatest potential to interact with the 3Cpro target by delivering the highest number of intermolecular hydrogen bonds and contact atoms. It formed the hydrogen bonds with L127 and K130 residues at the P2 site stronger than rupintrivir, supported by significantly lower MM/PB(GB)SA binding free energies. Elucidation of designed rupintrivir analogs in our study provides the basis for developing compounds that can be candidate compounds for further HFMD treatment.
Analytical Methods for the Determination of 90Sr and 239,240Pu in Environmental Samples
Authors: Zhong Ningjie , Li Lili , Yang Xiaofan , Zhao Yonggang
Published: March 2022

Artificial long-lived radionuclides such as 90Sr and 239,240Pu have been long released into the environment by human nuclear activities, which have a profound impact on the ecological environment. It is of great significance to monitor the concentration of these radionuclides for environmental safety. This paper summarizes and critically discusses the separation and measurement methods for ultra-trace determination of 90Sr, 239Pu, and 240Pu in the environment. After selecting the measurement method, it is necessary to consider the decontamination of the interference from matrix elements and the key elements, and this involves the choice of the separation method. Measurement methods include both radiometric methods and non-radiometric methods. Radiometric methods, including alpha spectroscopy, liquid scintillation spectrometry, etc., are commonly used methods for measuring 239+240Pu and 90Sr. Mass spectrometry, as the representative of non-radiometric measurement methods, has been regarded as the most promising analytical method due to its high absolute sensitivity, low detection limit, and relatively short sample-analysis time. Through the comparison of various measurement methods, the future development trend of radionuclide measurement is prospected in this review. The fully automatic and rapid analysis method is a highlight. The new mass spectrometer with ultra-high sensitivity shows strong analytical capabilities for extremely low concentrations of 90Sr, 239Pu, and 240Pu, and it is expected to develop determination methods with higher sensitivity and lower detection limit.
2D KBr/Graphene Heterostructures—Influence on Work Function and Friction
Authors: Liu Zhao , Hinaut Antoine , Peeters Stefan , Scherb Sebastian , Meyer Ernst , Righi Maria Clelia , Glatzel Thilo
Published: March 2022

The intercalation of graphene is an effective approach to modify the electronic properties of two-dimensional heterostructures for attractive phenomena and applications. In this work, we characterize the growth and surface properties of ionic KBr layers altered by graphene using ultra-high vacuum atomic force microscopy at room temperature. We observed a strong rippling of the KBr islands on Ir(111), which is induced by a specific layer reconstruction but disappears when graphene is introduced in between. The latter causes a consistent change in both the work function and the frictional forces measured by Kelvin probe force microscopy and frictional force microscopy, respectively. Systematic density functional theory calculations of the different systems show that the change in work function is induced by the formation of a surface dipole moment while the friction force is dominated by adhesion forces.
Ambient Pressure Chemical Vapor Deposition of Flat and Vertically Aligned MoS2 Nanosheets
Authors: Tummala Pinaka , Martella Christian , Molle Alessandro , Lamperti Alessio
Published: March 2022

Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) got tremendous attention due to its atomically thin body, rich physics, and high carrier mobility. The controlled synthesis of large area and high crystalline monolayer MoS2 nanosheets on diverse substrates remains a challenge for potential practical applications. Synthesizing different structured MoS2 nanosheets with horizontal and vertical orientations with respect to the substrate surface would bring a configurational versatility with benefit for numerous applications, including nanoelectronics, optoelectronics, and energy technologies. Among the proposed methods, ambient pressure chemical vapor deposition (AP-CVD) is a promising way for developing large-scale MoS2 nanosheets because of its high flexibility and facile approach. Here, we show an effective way for synthesizing large-scale horizontally and vertically aligned MoS2 on different substrates such as flat SiO2/Si, pre-patterned SiO2 and conductive substrates (TaN) benefit various direct TMDs production. In particular, we show precise control of CVD optimization for yielding high-quality MoS2 layers by changing growth zone configuration and the process steps. We demonstrated that the influence of configuration variability by local changes of the S to MoO3 precursor positions in the growth zones inside the CVD reactor is a key factor that results in differently oriented MoS2 formation. Finally, we show the layer quality and physical properties of as-grown MoS2 by means of different characterizations: Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), photoluminescence (PL) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). These experimental findings provide a strong pathway for conformally recasting AP-CVD grown MoS2 in many different configurations (i.e., substrate variability) or motifs (i.e., vertical or planar alignment) with potential for flexible electronics, optoelectronics, memories to energy storage devices.
Evaluating Therapeutic Equivalence of Generic and Original Levetiracetam in Patients with Epilepsy: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Tharavichitkun Jannapas , Yadee Tinonkorn , Angkaow Poomchai , Suansanae Thanarat
Published: March 2022

The brand interchangeability of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) is a topic of debate, especially regarding their therapeutic equivalence. This study evaluates the efficacy and tolerability of generic levetiracetam compared to the brand-name equivalent in a routine clinical setting. We conducted a retrospective study, examining patients with stable seizure frequency who received generic levetiracetam after the brand-name drug. During the six-month substitution period, changes in seizure frequency, hospitalization due to seizure exacerbation, adverse events, composite outcomes related to adjusting the AED dosage, and switching back to original levetiracetam were analyzed. Seventy-five patients were enrolled; the majority (85.3%) had focal onset seizures, and almost half (49.3%) had refractory epilepsy. Six months after the substitution, the mean seizure frequency per month was not significantly different (3.15 ± 14.47 vs. 2.77 ± 11.41; p = 0.970). In patients with controlled seizures before the change, the seizure frequency increased significantly (0.56 ± 1.83 vs. 0.03 ± 0.16; p = 0.012). Adverse events occurred in six patients. We have observed recurrent seizures or adverse events from 14 days after the transition. The original drug return rates due to recurrent seizures and adverse events were 5.3% and 1.3%, respectively. Generic levetiracetam might not show therapeutic equivalence to the original molecule, especially in patients adequately controlled by the brand-name drug.
Influence of Nutrients on Kidney Diseases
Authors: Morishita Yoshiyuki , Nakagawa Naoki
Published: March 2022

Kidneys filter and reabsorb various nutrients and electrolytes [...]
Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol and the Risk of Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Prospective Study in a Chinese Cohort
Authors: VanEvery Hannah , Yang Wenhao , Su Jinmei , Olsen Nancy , Bao Le , Lu Bing , Wu Shouling , Cui Liufu , Gao Xiang
Published: March 2022

Objective: This study aimed to investigate whether low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) concentration was associated with the risk of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in Chinese adults. Methods: The study included the 97,411 participants in the Kailuan Study without RA, with complete baseline LDL-C data, and who did not use lipid-lowering medications at baseline or during follow-up. We used Cox proportional hazards modeling to calculate the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) of RA according to baseline LDL-C tertiles, adjusting for age, sex, body mass index, HDL-C, triglycerides, diabetes, hypertension, alcohol consumption, and smoking. We also calculated the HR and 95% CI of RA using updated LDL-C measurements prior to the end of follow-up, adjusting for covariates. Results: We identified 97 incident RA cases between 2006 and 2018. After adjusting for potential confounders, updated LDL-C concentration—rather than baseline LDL-C—was inversely associated with RA risk. The adjusted HR of RA was 0.64 (95% CI: 0.38, 1.09; p-trend = 0.10) comparing the two extreme baseline LDL-C tertiles, and 0.38 (95% CI: 0.22, 0.64; p-trend < 0.01) comparing the two extreme tertiles of the updated LDL-C concentrations. Conclusions: In this prospective study, high LDL-C concentrations, when measured closest to RA diagnosis or the end of follow-up, were associated with a low risk of RA. These findings highlight the changes in LDL-C prior to RA diagnosis, and the importance of including lipid analyses into studies of the pathogenesis of RA.
Innovation as a Factor Increasing Fruit Consumption: The Case of Poland
Authors: Stangierska Dagmara , Kowalczuk Iwona , Widera Katarzyna , Olewnicki Dawid , Latocha Piotr
Published: March 2022

Due to the low level of fruit consumption in relation to dietary recommendations in many European countries, including Poland, multidirectional actions should be taken to increase the consumption of these products. One of the ideas could be the introduction of innovative products. The main goal of the study is to determine the relationship between consumer propensity to purchase innovative products and the frequency of consumption of fruits and their preserves of consumers. The research sample consisted of 600 respondents who declared to consume fruit and were responsible for food shopping in their households. The results obtained indicate that consumers with a higher propensity to purchase innovative products consumed fruit and fruit preserves more. In addition, statistically significant differences were found between innovators and non-innovators in terms of income, expenditures on fruit purchases, places where fruit and fruit preserves were purchased and product characteristics that determined the purchase decision. The logistic regression results indicate that a higher frequency of supermarket/hypermarket and online shopping, a higher weekly spending on fruit and a greater importance attributed to the biodegradability of the packaging increased the favorability of innovation relatively to fruit products (by 23.8%, 31.4%, 32.7% and 21.6%, respectively). The relationships found may have important implications for both private and public stakeholders in the fruit and vegetable sector.
Targeted Drug Delivery to the Central Nervous System Using Extracellular Vesicles
Authors: Zhou Lina , Kodidela Sunitha , Godse Sandip , Thomas-Gooch Stacey , Kumar Asit , Raji Babatunde , Zhi Kaining , Kochat Harry , Kumar Santosh
Published: March 2022

The blood brain barrier (BBB) maintains the homeostasis of the central nervous system (CNS) and protects the brain from toxic substances present in the circulating blood. However, the impermeability of the BBB to drugs is a hurdle for CNS drug development, which hinders the distribution of the most therapeutic molecules into the brain. Therefore, scientists have been striving to develop safe and effective technologies to advance drug penetration into the CNS with higher targeting properties and lower off-targeting side effects. This review will discuss the limitation of artificial nanomedicine in CNS drug delivery and the use of natural extracellular vesicles (EVs), as therapeutic vehicles to achieve targeted delivery to the CNS. Information on clinical trials regarding CNS targeted drug delivery using EVs is very limited. Thus, this review will also briefly highlight the recent clinical studies on targeted drug delivery in the peripheral nervous system to shed light on potential strategies for CNS drug delivery. Different technologies engaged in pre- and post-isolation have been implemented to further utilize and optimize the natural property of EVs. EVs from various sources have also been applied in the engineering of EVs for CNS targeted drug delivery in vitro and in vivo. Here, the future feasibility of those studies in clinic will be discussed.
Synthesis of Silver Nanocomposites for Stereolithography: In Situ Formation of Nanoparticles
Authors: Valencia Luisa , Herrera Miriam , de la Mata María , de León Alberto , Delgado Francisco , Molina Sergio
Published: March 2022

Additive Manufacturing (AM) offers remarkable advantages in relation to traditional methods used to obtain solid structures, such as the capability to obtain customized complex geometries adapted to individual requirements. The design of novel nanocomposites suitable for AM is an excellent strategy to widen the application field of these techniques. In this work, we report on the fabrication of metal/polymer nanocomposites with enhanced optical/electrical behaviour for stereolithography (SLA). In particular, we analyse the in situ generation of Ag nanoparticles (NPs) from Ag precursors (AgNO3 and AgClO4) within acrylic resins via SLA. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis confirmed the formation of Ag NPs smaller than 5 nm in all nanocomposites, providing optical activity to the materials. A high density of Ag NPs with a good distribution through the material for the larger concentration of AgClO4 precursor tested was observed, in contrast to the isolated agglomerations found when the precursor amount was reduced to 0.1%. A significant reduction in the electrical resistivity up to four orders of magnitude was found for this material compared to the unfilled resin. However, consumption of part of the photoinitiator in the formation process of the Ag NPs contributed to a reduction in the polymerization degree of the resin and, consequently, degraded the mechanical properties of the nanocomposites. Experiments with longer curing times showed that, for the higher AgClO4 concentrations tested, post-curing times of 300 min allowed an 80% degree of polymerization to be achieved. These conditions turned these materials into promising candidates to obtain solid structures with multifunctional properties.
Microscopic Pyrolytic and Electric Decomposition Mechanism of Insulating Polyimide/Boron Nitride Nanosheet Composites based on ReaxFF
Authors: Wang Xiaosong , Zhao Tong , Wang Yihan , Zhang Li , Zou Liang
Published: March 2022

High thermal conductivity insulating materials with excellent comprehensive properties can be obtained by doping boron nitride nanosheets (BNNSs) into polyimide (PI). To study the microscopic mechanism of composite material decomposition in an actual working environment and the inhibitory effect of BNNS doping on the decomposition process, molecular dynamics simulations were carried out at high temperatures, in intense electric fields, and with various reactive species in plasma based on the reactive force field (ReaxFF). The results showed that the decomposition was mainly caused by hydrogen capture and adsorption, which broke the benzene ring and C-N bond on the PI chains and led to serious damage to the PI structure. The BNNS filling was shown to inhibit the decomposition of the PI matrix at high temperatures and in intense electric fields. Moreover, the BNNS filling also inhibited the material decomposition caused by ·OH and ·NO. The erosive effect of the positive corona on the PI composites was more obvious than that of the negative corona. In this paper, the microscopic dynamic reaction paths of material pyrolysis in various environments were revealed at the atomic level, and it was concluded that BNNS doping could effectively inhibit the decomposition of PI in various environments.
Recent Advances in MXene/Epoxy Composites: Trends and Prospects
Authors: Giménez Raquel , Serrano Berna , San-Miguel Verónica , Cabanelas Juan Carlos
Published: March 2022

Epoxy resins are thermosets with interesting physicochemical properties for numerous engineering applications, and considerable efforts have been made to improve their performance by adding nanofillers to their formulations. MXenes are one of the most promising functional materials to use as nanofillers. They have attracted great interest due to their high electrical and thermal conductivity, hydrophilicity, high specific surface area and aspect ratio, and chemically active surface, compatible with a wide range of polymers. The use of MXenes as nanofillers in epoxy resins is incipient; nevertheless, the literature indicates a growing interest due to their good chemical compatibility and outstanding properties as composites, which widen the potential applications of epoxy resins. In this review, we report an overview of the recent progress in the development of MXene/epoxy nanocomposites and the contribution of nanofillers to the enhancement of properties. Particularly, their application for protective coatings (i.e., anticorrosive and friction and wear), electromagnetic-interference shielding, and composites is discussed. Finally, a discussion of the challenges in this topic is presented.
Experimental Findings and Validation on Torsional Behaviour of Fibre-Reinforced Concrete Beams: A Review
Authors: Awoyera Paul , Effiong John , Olalusi Oladimeji , Prakash Arunachalam Krishna , de Azevedo Afonso , Martinelli Flavia , Monteiro Sergio
Published: March 2022

Fibres have long been utilized in the construction sector to improve the mechanical qualities of structural elements such as beams, columns, and slabs. This study aims to review the torsional behaviour of various forms of fibre reinforced concrete to identify possible enhancements and the practicability of concrete structural beams. Concrete reinforced steel fibre, synthetic fibre, and hybrid fibre are examples of fibre reinforced concrete. The review found that the mixing, orientation, and volume of fibres, the size of coarse particles, the aspect ratio of fibres, and the stiffness of fibres all affect the torsional strength of fibre reinforced concrete. Nevertheless, the application of fibres to recycled self-consolidating concrete of various forms needs to be explored and studied to ascertain its feasibility to facilitate greener concrete. Thus, with the results compiled in this review paper, it was possible to delimit advances and gaps on the effect of editing reinforcement fibres in relation to the torsion of structural elements.
Zirconia Toughened Alumina-Based Separator Membrane for Advanced Alkaline Water Electrolyzer
Authors: Ali Muhammad Farjad , Lee Hae In , Bernäcker Christian Immanuel , Weißgärber Thomas , Lee Sechan , Kim Sang-Kyung , Cho Won-Chul
Published: March 2022

Hydrogen is nowadays considered a favorable and attractive energy carrier fuel to replace other fuels that cause global warming problems. Water electrolysis has attracted the attention of researchers to produce green hydrogen mainly for the accumulation of renewable energy. Hydrogen can be safely used as a bridge to successfully connect the energy demand and supply divisions. An alkaline water electrolysis system owing to its low cost can efficiently use renewable energy sources on large scale. Normally organic/inorganic composite porous separator membranes have been employed as a membrane for alkaline water electrolyzers. However, the separator membranes exhibit high ionic resistance and low gas resistance values, resulting in lower efficiency and raised safety issues as well. Here, in this study, we report that zirconia toughened alumina (ZTA)–based separator membrane exhibits less ohmic resistance 0.15 Ω·cm2 and low hydrogen gas permeability 10.7 × 10−12 mol cm−1 s−1 bar−1 in 30 wt.% KOH solution, which outperforms the commercial, state-of-the-art Zirfon® PERL separator. The cell containing ZTA and advanced catalysts exhibit an excellent performance of 2.1 V at 2000 mA/cm2 at 30 wt.% KOH and 80 °C, which is comparable with PEM electrolysis. These improved results show that AWEs equipped with ZTA separators could be superior in performance to PEM electrolysis.
Cross-Linking of Polypropylene via the Diels–Alder Reaction
Authors: Muljana Henky , Arends Stefan , Remerie Klaas , Boven Gert , Picchioni Francesco , Bose Ranjita K.
Published: March 2022

In this work, the possibility of preparing cross-linked polypropylene (PP) via Diels–Alder (DA) chemistry is explored. The overall strategy involves reaction of maleated polypropylene (the starting material), furfuryl amine (FFA), and bismaleimide (BM) as the cross-linking agent. The occurrence of reversible cross-linking was studied by checking the presence of relevant peaks in FTIR spectra, i.e., CH out-of-plane bending vibrations of the furan ring’s peak (γCH) at an absorption band of 730–734 cm−1, CH=CH of the BM aromatic ring’s stretching vibrations (υCH=CH) at an absorption band of 1510 cm−1, and the DA adduct (C-O-C, δDAring) at an absorption band of 1186 cm−1. In agreement with the spectroscopic characterization, the presence of a cross-linked network is also confirmed by rheology, namely the higher storage modulus (G′) compared with loss modulus (G″) value (G′ >> G″), as obtained via temperature sweep. Both the maleic anhydride (MA) content as well as the annealing temperature (50 °C and 120 °C) favor the DA reaction, while only partial de-cross-linking (retro DA) is observed at the higher temperature range of 150–200 °C. In addition, the products show higher mechanical robustness and thermal stability compared to the starting material.
Open-Celled Foams of Polyethersulfone/Poly(N-vinylpyrrolidone) Blends for Ultrafiltration Applications
Authors: Raje Aniket , Buhr Kristian , Koll Joachim , Lillepärg Jelena , Abetz Volker , Handge Ulrich A.
Published: March 2022

Since membranes made of open porous polymer foams can eliminate the use of organic solvents during their manufacturing, a series of previous studies have explored the foaming process of various polymers including polyethersulfone (PESU) using physical blowing agents but failed to produce ultrafiltration membranes. In this study, blends containing different ratios of PESU and poly(N-vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP) were used for preparation of open-celled polymer foams. In batch foaming experiments involving a combination of supercritical CO2 and superheated water as blowing agents, blends with low concentration of PVP delivered uniform open-celled foams that consisted of cells with average cell size less than 20 µm and cell walls containing open pores with average pore size less than 100 nm. A novel sample preparation method was developed to eliminate the non-foamed skin layer and to achieve a high porosity. Flat sheet membranes with an average cell size of 50 nm in the selective layer and average internal pore size of 200 nm were manufactured by batch foaming a PESU blend with higher concentration of PVP and post-treatment with an aqueous solution of sodium hypochlorite. These foams are associated with a water-flux up to 45 L/(h m2 bar). Retention tests confirmed their applicability as ultrafiltration membranes.
Overview of the Important Factors Influencing the Performance of Eco-Friendly Brake Pads
Authors: Irawan Agustinus Purna , Fitriyana Deni Fajar , Tezara Cionita , Siregar Januar Parlaungan , Laksmidewi Dwinita , Baskara Gregorius Dimas , Abdullah Mohd Zulkfly , Junid Ramli , Hadi Agung Efriyo , Hamdan Mohammad Hazim Mohamad , Najid Najid
Published: March 2022

The braking system is a crucial element in automotive safety. In order for the braking mechanism to function effectively, the brake pads’ durability as well as quality are crucial aspects to take into account. A brake pad is a part of a vehicle that holds the wheel rotation so that braking can occur. Asbestos, which is harmful to human health, is a raw material that is recently being widely used as a material mixture for the manufacturing of brake pads. Many efforts have been made by researchers to find other natural alternative materials to replace the use of asbestos. Natural materials that have received much attention and research include coconut fiber, wood powder or flour, bamboo fiber, shell powder, etc. This review paper focuses on analyzing the main parameters that affect brake pad performance. The composition of filler and fiber types of reinforcement for polymer composites is discussed. Previous studies’ information on the fabrication and testing of brake pads are also highlighted. Furthermore, the findings of this review can provide researchers and academicians with useful information and points to consider for further research.
A Study on Carbon Fiber Composites with Low-Melting-Point Polyester Nonwoven Fabric Reinforcement: A Highly Effective Electromagnetic Wave Shield Textile Material
Authors: Lin Jia-Horng , Hsu Po-Wen , Huang Chen-Hung , Lai Mei-Feng , Shiu Bing-Chiuan , Lou Ching-Wen
Published: March 2022

In this study, a low-melting-point polyester nonwoven fabric (L), a nylon spacer fabric (N), and a carbon fiber woven fabric (C) are laminated in different orders and then needle-bonded at a depth of 15.0 cm to form NLC, NLN, CLC, and CLN composites with a sandwich construction. Regardless of the lamination order, four composite types exhibit high tensile strengths and tearing strengths. Based on the ASTM D4935-18 test standard, the electromagnetic wave shielding measurement is conducted in a frequency range of 1~3 GHz. The two groups—NLC and CLN—demonstrate different electromagnetic wave shields, which are −45~−65 dB for the former, and −60 dB for the latter. According to FTTS-FA-003, in the specified requirements of the test method for electromagnetic shielding textiles, the proposed composites achieve level III, which is the highest standard, and are thus qualified for use in the aviation, construction, and commerce fields.
An Integrated Optimization Model for Industrial Energy System Retrofit with Process Scheduling, Heat Recovery, and Energy Supply System Synthesis
Authors: Beck Anton , Knöttner Sophie , Unterluggauer Julian , Halmschlager Daniel , Hofmann René
Published: March 2022

The urgent need for CO2 reduction is calling upon the industry to contribute. However, changes within local energy supply systems including efficiency enhancement are bound to several economical and technical constraints, which results in interfering trade-offs that make it difficult to find the optimal investment option for CO2 mitigation. In this article, a new optimization model is presented that allows to optimize the design and operation of a supply and heat recovery system and production scheduling simultaneously. The model was used for retrofitting of a small brewery’s local energy system to identify decarbonization measures for eight potential future scenarios with different technical, economical and ecological boundary conditions. The results show that the proposed cost-optimized changes to the current energy system only slightly reduce carbon emissions if decarbonization is not enforced since the optimal solutions prioritize integration of photo voltaic (PV) modules that mainly substitute electricity purchase from grid, which is already assumed to be carbon free. However, enforcing decarbonization rates of 50% for the assumed future boundary conditions still results in cost savings compared to the current energy system. These systems contain heat pumps, thermal energy storages, electric boilers, and PV. Battery storages are only part of the optimal system configuration if low to moderate decarbonization rates below 50% are enforced. An analysis of marginal costs for units not considered in the optimal solutions shows that solar thermal collectors only require small decreases in collector cost to be selected by the solver.
Ameloblastoma in a Three-Year-Old Child with Hurler Syndrome (Mucopolysaccharidosis Type I)
Authors: Di Bartolomeo Mattia , Pellacani Arrigo , Negrello Sara , Buchignani Martina , Nocini Riccardo , Di Massa Gianluca , Gianotti Greta , Pollastri Giuseppe , Colletti Giacomo , Chiarini Luigi , Anesi Alexandre
Published: March 2022

Mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS) are a family of genetic diseases associated with a deficiency of alpha-L iduronidase, which causes a lack of catabolism of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). Therefore, the accumulation of GAGs determines a wide spectrum of symptoms, typically found in a few syndromes like Hurler syndrome (HS). Among other specific manifestations, craniofacial abnormalities are crucial for the characterization of this syndrome. Ameloblastoma is a rare, benign, slow-growing, odontogenic tumor usually located in the mandible. Clear risk factors for the development of ameloblastoma remain unknown, but black patients have a fivefold increased risk. Clinically, it is characterized by a painless, variable-sized jaw swelling. Although classified as a benign tumor, ameloblastoma often has a severe clinical outcome. The most common type of ameloblastoma is the solid/multicystic/conventional one. A computed tomography scan (CT) with and without contrast is the gold standard for evaluating this kind of neoplasia. Conservative or radical surgery is the mainstay of treatment. In this case report, we described an unusual clinical assessment of conventional ameloblastoma interesting the posterior left mandible of a 35-month-old child affected by HS. This case represented a suggestive challenge both from a diagnostic and a therapeutic point of view. The patient was disease-free at 2 years’ follow-up.