bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TGF-β1 Promotes Zika Virus Infection in Immortalized Human First-Trimester Trophoblasts via the Smad Pathway
Authors: Trinh Quang Duy , Pham Ngan Thi Kim , Takada Kazuhide , Takano Chika , Komine-Aizawa Shihoko , Hayakawa Satoshi
Published: September 2022

The Zika virus (ZIKV) is well known for causing congenital Zika syndrome if the infection occurs during pregnancy; however, the mechanism by which the virus infects and crosses the placenta barrier has not been completely understood. In pregnancy, TGF-β1 is abundant at the maternal–fetal interface. TGF-β1 has been reported to enhance rubella virus binding and infection in human lung epithelial cells. Therefore, in this study, we investigate the role of TGF-β1 in ZIKV infection in the immortalized human first-trimester trophoblasts, i.e., Swan.71. The cells were treated with TGF-β1 (10 ng/mL) for two days before being inoculated with the virus (American strain PRVABC59) at a multiplicity of infection of five. The results showed an enhancement of ZIKV infection, as demonstrated by the immunofluorescent assay and flow cytometry analysis. Such enhanced infection effects were abolished using SB431542 or SB525334, inhibitors of the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway. An approximately 2-fold increase in the virus binding to the studied trophoblasts was found. In the presence of the Smad inhibitors, virus replication was significantly suppressed. An enhancement in Tyro3 and AXL (receptors for ZIKV) expression induced by TGF-β1 was also noted. The results suggest that TGF-β1 promotes the virus infection via the Smad pathway. Further studies should be carried out to clarify the underlying mechanisms of these findings.
Mechanistic Understanding of the Olfactory Neuroepithelium Involvement Leading to Short-Term Anosmia in COVID-19 Using the Adverse Outcome Pathway Framework
Authors: Shahbaz Muhammad Ali , De Bernardi Francesca , Alatalo Arto , Sachana Magdalini , Clerbaux Laure-Alix , Muñoz Amalia , Parvatam Surat , Landesmann Brigitte , Kanninen Katja M. , Coecke Sandra
Published: September 2022

Loss of the sense of smell (anosmia) has been included as a COVID-19 symptom by the World Health Organization. The majority of patients recover the sense of smell within a few weeks postinfection (short-term anosmia), while others report persistent anosmia. Several studies have investigated the mechanisms leading to anosmia in COVID-19; however, the evidence is scattered, and the mechanisms remain poorly understood. Based on a comprehensive review of the literature, we aim here to evaluate the current knowledge and uncertainties regarding the mechanisms leading to short-term anosmia following SARS-CoV-2 infection. We applied an adverse outcome pathway (AOP) framework, well established in toxicology, to propose a sequence of measurable key events (KEs) leading to short-term anosmia in COVID-19. Those KEs are (1) SARS-CoV-2 Spike proteins binding to ACE-2 expressed by the sustentacular (SUS) cells in the olfactory epithelium (OE); (2) viral entry into SUS cells; (3) viral replication in the SUS cells; (4) SUS cell death; (5) damage to the olfactory sensory neurons and the olfactory epithelium (OE). This AOP-aligned approach allows for the identification of gaps where more research should be conducted and where therapeutic intervention could act. Finally, this AOP gives a frame to explain several disease features and can be linked to specific factors that lead to interindividual differences in response to SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Dendritic Cells: The Long and Evolving Road towards Successful Targetability in Cancer
Authors: Marmonti Enrica , Oliva-Ramirez Jacqueline , Haymaker Cara
Published: September 2022

Dendritic cells (DCs) are a unique myeloid cell lineage that play a central role in the priming of the adaptive immune response. As such, they are an attractive target for immune oncology based therapeutic approaches. However, targeting these cells has proven challenging with many studies proving inconclusive or of no benefit in a clinical trial setting. In this review, we highlight the known and unknown about this rare but powerful immune cell. As technologies have expanded our understanding of the complexity of DC development, subsets and response features, we are now left to apply this knowledge to the design of new therapeutic strategies in cancer. We propose that utilization of these technologies through a multiomics approach will allow for an improved directed targeting of DCs in a clinical trial setting. In addition, the DC research community should consider a consensus on subset nomenclature to distinguish new subsets from functional or phenotypic changes in response to their environment.
Comparative Study of Physicochemical Characteristics and Catalytic Activity of Copper Oxide over Synthetic Silicon Oxide and Silicon Oxide from Rice Husk in Non-Oxidative Dehydrogenation of Ethanol
Authors: Mambetova Manshuk , Yergaziyeva Gaukhar , Dossumov Kusman , Askaruly Kydyr , Azat Seitkhan , Bexeitova Kalampyr , Anissova Moldir , Baizhomartov Bedelzhan
Published: September 2022

The article presents the results of comparative research on the physicochemical characteristics and catalytic activity of copper oxide supported on synthetic SiO2 and SiO2 (RH) from rice husk. SiO2 (RH) is more hydrophobic compared to SiO2, which leads to the concentration of copper oxide on its surface in the form of a “crust”, which is very important in the synthesis of low-percentage catalysts. According to SEM, XRD, and TPR-H2, the use of SiO2 (RH) as a carrier leads to an increase in the dispersion of copper oxide particles, which is the active center of ethanol dehydrogenation.
Psycholinguistics: Analysis of Knowledge Domains on Children’s Language Acquisition, Production, Comprehension, and Dissolution
Authors: Alduais Ahmed , Alfadda Hind , Baraja’a Dareen , Allegretta Silvia
Published: September 2022

This paper utilised bibliometric and scientometric indicators to assess the current state of research in psycholinguistics. A total of 32,586 documents in psycholinguistics were included from Scopus, WOS, and Lens between 1946 and 2022. The collected data were analysed using CiteSpace 5.8.R3 and VOSviewer 1.6.18. The results included tabulation, visualisation, and mapping for the past, present, and future directions of the field of psycholinguistics. We identified key authors, works, journals, and concepts in the existing evidence concerning (children’s) language acquisition, production, comprehension, and dissolution. The study contributes to the systematic study of existing scholarship in the field of psycholinguistics by documenting the progress of the field and informing relevant researchers about the current state of the field of psycholinguistics. Having grouped the 32,586 documents in psycholinguistics, 12 clusters were identified. These include (1) examining individual difference in affective norm and familiarity account; (2) examining refractory effect in the role of Broca’s area in sentence processing; (3) using eye movement to study bilingual language control and familiarity account; (4) exploring familiarity account through relative clauses; (5) the study of formulaic language and language persistence; (6) examining affective norm and sub-lexical effect in Spanish words; (7) examining lexical persistence in multiplex lexical networks; (8) the study of persistence through cortical dynamics; (9) the study of context effect in language learning and language processing; (10) the study of neurophysiological correlates in semantic context integration; (11) examining persistence as an acquisition norm through naming latencies; and (12) following a cross-linguistic perspective to study aphasic speakers.
Report of Two Cases of Pediatric IgG4-Related Lymphadenopathy (IgG4-LAD): IgG4-Related Disease (IgG4-RD) or a Distinct Clinical Pathological Entity?
Authors: Meli Mariaclaudia , Arrabito Marta , Salvatorelli Lucia , Soma Rachele , Presti Santiago , Licciardello Maria , Miraglia Vito , Scuderi Maria Grazia , Belfiore Giuseppe , Magro Gaetano , Russo Giovanna , Di Cataldo Andrea
Published: September 2022

IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD) is a recently discovered immune-mediated fibroinflammatory condition, uncommon in the pediatric population, that could involve multiple organs and induce cancer-like lesions and organ damage. Its main features are multiple injuries in different sites, a dense lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate rich in IgG4 plasma cells, storiform fibrosis, and often high serological concentrations of IgG4. Autoimmune pancreatitis is the most common manifestation, mainly in adults. Two cases of IgG4-RD in children with lymph node localization of disease are reported. Localized or systemic lymph node involvement is common, but lymph node enlargement as the first and only manifestation of IgG4-RD is unusual, and therefore, hard to differentiate from other diseases. IgG4-related lymphadenopathy (IgG4-LAD) is most likely a distinct disease, described as isolated lymphadenopathy, related to the presence of elevated numbers of IgG4-positive plasma cells. Both disorders are likely to be misdiagnosed in children because they are characterized by rare and polymorphic features. IgG4-RD and IgG4-LAD should be considered in the differential diagnosis of disorders characterized by lymphadenopathy of uncertain etiology.
The Management of Toe Walking in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: “Cast and Go”
Authors: Manfredi Francesco , Riefoli Flavia , Coviello Michele , Dibello Daniela
Published: September 2022

Background: Toe walking is associated with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Correction of this “behavior” is a health challenge. The toe walker is affected by the contact refusal with the outside world: touching the ground as little as possible, trying to avoid any contact. A structured equines foot is a possible consequence. Method: We present the “Cast and Go” protocol, used in 22 idiopathic toe walker children with ASD treated from 2015 to 2020. The treatment was performed by a single senior experienced doctor with botulinum injection, ankle casts and rehabilitative therapies. All patients underwent pre- and post-treatment clinical evaluation using ankle dorsiflexion angle and casting number as treatment. We aimed to identify the intervention with the shortest acquisition time for the management of toe walking. Results: Our findings demonstrated the baseline ankle dorsiflexion angle influenced the casting number (p < 0.01) and male patients had a higher baseline ankle dorsiflexion angle than female patients (p < 0.01). No adverse events were observed. Conclusions: These findings suggested that the “Cast and Go” protocol could be a promising, dynamic and effective practice for toe walking disease in ASD patients.
Environmental Factors in Northern Italy and Sickle Cell Disease Acute Complications: A Multicentric Study
Authors: Guerzoni Maria Elena , Marchesi Stefano , Palazzi Giovanni , Lodi Mariachiara , Pinelli Margherita , Venturelli Donatella , Bigi Elena , Quaglia Nadia , Corti Paola , Serra Roberta , Colombatti Raffaella , Sainati Laura , Masera Nicoletta , Colombo Francesca , Barone Angelica , Iughetti Lorenzo
Published: September 2022

Background: Environmental factors seem to influence clinical manifestations of sickle cell disease (SCD), but few studies have shown consistent findings. We conducted a retrospective multicentric observational study to investigate the influence of environmental parameters on hospitalization for vaso-occlusive crises (VOC) or acute chest syndrome (ACS) in children with SCD. Methods: Hospital admissions were correlated with daily meteorological and air-quality data obtained from Environmental Regional Agencies in the period 2011–2015. The effect of different parameters was assessed on the day preceding the crisis up to ten days before. Statistical analysis was performed using a quasi-likelihood Poisson regression in a generalized linear model. Results: The risk of hospitalization was increased for low maximum temperature, low minimum relative humidity, and low atmospheric pressure and weakly for mean wind speed. The diurnal temperature range and temperature difference between two consecutive days were determined to be important causes of hospitalization. For air quality parameters, we found a correlation only for high levels of ozone and for low values at the tail corresponding to the lowest concentration of this pollutant. Conclusions: Temperature, atmospheric pressure, humidity and ozone levels influence acute complications of SCD. Patients’ education and the knowledge of the modes of actions of these factors could reduce hospitalizations.
Parents Reaching Out to Parents: An Appreciative, Qualitative Evaluation of Stakeholder Experiences of the Parent Champions in the Community Project
Authors: Carter Bernie , Flynn Anita , McKenna Jacqueline
Published: September 2022

Background: Bronchiolitis is a seasonal, global acute lower respiratory tract infection caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and is a leading cause of hospital admission in young children. A peer-led (parents to parents) intervention was implemented to empower parents of children at risk of bronchiolitis and reduce hospital admissions. This paper reported the evaluation that aimed to gain the perspectives and experiences of five key stakeholder groups. Methods: A qualitative remote interview-based design, informed by Appreciative Inquiry was used. Thematic analysis was used. Results: Sixty-five stakeholders participated: parents (n = 43; mothers, n = 42), Parent Champions (n = 9), Children’s Centre Managers (n = 8), Children’s Centre Group Leaders (n = 11), and Core Team (n = 4). An overarching theme ‘Parents reaching out to parents’ was supported by five sub-themes (Raising awareness and sharing knowledge; Creating connection, trust, and confidence; Flourishing in their role as a Parent Champion; Rising to the challenges; and Knowledge is power, prevention is key: the government needs to know this.) Conclusions: Parent-to-parent peer support via the Parent Champions was perceived positively by parents who wanted to learn and improve the lives and health of their children. Parent Champions were successful in delivering information. Considering the socioeconomic burden of bronchiolitis to services and families, the potential for an upstream, relatively low cost, high-reach innovative intervention, as evidenced in this project, seems a valuable opportunity for improving children’s respiratory health.
Balanced Crystalloids versus Normal Saline in Children with Critical Asthma
Authors: Scioscia Andrea , Horvat Christopher , Moritz Michael L. , Fuhrman Dana
Published: September 2022

There is little known about the impact of maintenance fluid choice in children with critical asthma on clinical outcomes. Our primary study objectives were to determine the differences in the serum chloride and bicarbonate levels based on the receipt of 0.9% saline or a balanced solution. The secondary study objectives included differences in acute kidney injury (AKI) and intensive care unit (ICU)/hospital length of stay (LOS). In this retrospective cohort study, we included 1166 patients admitted to a quaternary children’s hospital with critical asthma between 2017 and 2019. The patients were stratified based on if they received 0.9% saline or a balanced solution (Lactated Ringer’s or Plasma-lyte) for maintenance therapy. The study outcomes were determined using independent sample t-tests, multivariable logistic regression, and negative binomial regression. The patients who received 0.9% saline maintenance therapy had a significantly higher increase in their serum chloride levels when compared to those who received balanced solutions (0.9% saline: +4 mMol/L, balanced: +2 mMol/L, p = 0.002). There was no difference in the decrease in the serum bicarbonate levels (0.9% saline: −0.4 mMol/L, balanced: −0.5 mMol/L, p = 0.830). After controlling for age, race, sex, and the Pediatric Logistic Organ Dysfunction (PELOD-2) score, there was no association between the type of fluid received and the development of AKI (OR 0.87, 95% CI: 0.46–1.63, p = 0.678). Additionally, there was no association between the type of fluid and hospital or ICU LOS. Thus, despite higher serum chloride levels in the patients that received 0.9% saline, the choice of fluid therapy did not have an impact on the serum bicarbonate values, the development of AKI or hospital and ICU LOS, suggesting there is little difference between 0.9% saline and balanced solutions as maintenance therapy in children with critical asthma.
Classical Angiogenic Signaling Pathways and Novel Anti-Angiogenic Strategies for Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Cao Mengyuan , Wang Yunmeng , Lu Guige , Qi Haoran , Li Peiyu , Dai Xiaoshuo , Lu Jing
Published: September 2022

Although productive progress has been made in colorectal cancer (CRC) researchs, CRC is the second most frequent type of malignancy and the major cause of cancer-related death among gastrointestinal cancers. As angiogenesis constitutes an important point in the control of CRC progression and metastasis, understanding the key signaling pathways that regulate CRC angiogenesis is critical in elucidating ways to inhibit CRC. Herein, we comprehensively summarized the angiogenesis-related pathways of CRC, including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT), Wingless and int-1 (Wnt), and Notch signaling pathways. We divided the factors influencing the specific pathway into promoters and inhibitors. Among these, some drugs or natural compounds that have antiangiogenic effects were emphasized. Furthermore, the interactions of these pathways in angiogenesis were discussed. The current review provides a comprehensive overview of the key signaling pathways that are involved in the angiogenesis of CRC and contributes to the new anti-angiogenic strategies for CRC.
Preparation of ZnFe2O4@TiO2 Novel Core-Shell Photocatalyst by Ultrasonic Method and Its Photocatalytic Degradation Activity
Authors: Chen Renhua , Ding Suying , Wang Bo , Ren Xuechang
Published: September 2022

ZnFe2O4 microspheres were prepared by solvothermal method, and a novel ZnFe2O4@TiO2 core-shell composite photocatalyst was prepared by ultrasonic (denoted as ZT-x) and mechanical stirring (denoted as ZTM-1.2). The morphology, structure, magnetic, and optoelectronic properties of the catalyst were investigated comprehensively, and the degradation performance of the catalyst was explored through the photocatalytic degradation of Rhodamine B (RhB) under UV light. The concentration of RhB was 10 mg/L, and the catalyst concentration was 0.3 g/L. ZT-1.2 showed the best photocatalytic degradation activity, and the degradation rate of RhB reached 97.3% within 60 min. The degradation ability of the catalyst was further evaluated by Methylene blue (MB), Methyl orange (MO), Phenol, and Ofloxacin (OFX). ZT-1.2 also exhibited excellent stability. The improved catalyst degradation performance was attributed to constructing a Z-type heterojunction. Moreover, the low-efficiency degradation of ZTM-1.2 was caused by catalyst agglomeration and low TiO2 loading, confirming the superiority of the ultrasonic method and providing a new method for the preparation of magnetically recoverable TiO2-based core-shell photocatalyst.
75Cr3C2-25NiCr and 86WC-10Co-4Cr High Wear- and Corrosion-Resistant Cermet Coatings Deposited on A356 Substrate by High-Velocity Oxy-Fuel Technique
Authors: Mazaheri Yousef , Khodaveysi Elahe , Roknian Masoud , Sheikhi Mohsen , Heidarpour Akbar
Published: September 2022

In this research, Cr3C2-NiCr and WC-Co-Cr cermet coatings were developed on A356 aluminum-based alloy substrate by the high-velocity oxy-fuel (HVOF) technique for use in wear and corrosion applications. The substrate and coatings were characterized using a field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) equipped with the energy dispersive spectroscope (EDS), microhardness, wear, and corrosion test instruments. Microstructural observations revealed that the coatings with an average thickness of about 250 μm were well bonded with the substrate. The microhardness of the Cr3C2-NiCr (~930 HV) and WC-Co-Cr (~1300 HV) coatings were about eleven and sixteen times higher than that of the A356 substrate (~80 HV), respectively. Cermet coatings showed significantly lower mass losses, wear rates, and friction coefficients in comparison with the A356 substrate. WC-Co-Cr coating illustrated higher tribological performance in comparison with Cr3C2-NiCr coating. The mass loss and friction coefficient of the WC-Co-Cr coating under an applied load of 10 N was about 0.2 mg and 0.13 (about 99.5% and 79.7% lower than that of the A356 substrate, e.g., 41.5 mg and 0.64), respectively. Rising applied load increased the wear characteristics of the A356 substrate with the more pronounced degrees. FESEM observations on wear test specimens illustrated the different wear mechanisms on the surfaces. The results illustrated significant improvements in the corrosion performances of the coated samples.
Preliminary Investigation of Sequential Application of Different Calcium Oxalate Solutions for Carbonate Rock Conservation
Authors: Zha Jianrui , Gu Yaoqi , Wei Shuya , Han Huarui , Wang Ankun , Ma Qinglin
Published: September 2022

Being inspired by nature, a series of experiments was carried out to deposit a calcium oxalate layer on the surface of the stone by the reaction between carbonate rock and oxalate salt. To increase the anti-dissolution properties of the calcium oxalate layer, the use of mixed oxalate solution has been proposed in the literature by two main routes: (1) adding acid agent to ammonium oxalate, which has the advantage of changing the particle structure and reducing layer porosity, and (2) using neutral methyl oxalate solution, which has the advantage of surface coverage due to slowly hydrolysis. In this study, we investigated the sequential application of ammonium oxalate, methyl oxalate, neutral mixed, and calcium acetate acid mixed solution. With this method, calcium carbonate and calcium oxalate solution can react inside the stone to reinforce it. The protective film’s coverage area can then be increased using dimethyl oxalate neutral mixed solution, and the crystal morphology can be modified with calcium oxalate acid mixed solution. The anti-dissolution properties of the coating were investigated using both a custom-designed apparatus and a selective outdoor environment. The coating displayed good acid resistance properties at pH 2–4. After one year of exposure, the coating is firmly bonded with the stone.
Investigation on Adhesion Characteristics of Virgin-Aged Composite Binder and Binder-Aggregate System
Authors: Wu Hao , Xu Shidong , Zhan Yiqun , Song Weimin , Bai Shu
Published: September 2022

In recycled asphalt mixtures, the RAP binder often becomes stiff and brittle due to aging, making it difficult to achieve a complete integration with the added virgin binder, which could provide a negative impact on the long-term performance of the recycled asphalt mixtures. In an attempt to identify the influence of the integration degree on the adhesion characteristics of virgin-aged composite binder and the corresponding binder-aggregate system, a series of experiments, including the modified boiling test and pull-off test and corresponding formation methods for the binder samples with various interfusion states, were designed and carried out in the present study. The two-layered composite binder (CB), consisting of a layer of virgin binder and a layer of aged binder was fabricated for the experiments, and the testing results were analyzed and compared with those of the virgin binder (VB), the aged binder (AB), and the blended binder (BB). The thermostatic treatments with various durations were subjected to the binder samples to attribute them with various integrations, and the wetting conditioning was also imposed on them to introduce the impact of moisture erosions. The rheological properties, creep recovery capacity, and fatigue resistance of the binders were first investigated based on a dynamic shear rheometer. The adhesion characteristics and failure behaviors of the binder-aggregate system were furthermore explored with the modified boiling test and pull-off test, and the percentage of residual binder (%_residual binder), pull-off test strength (POTS), and moisture damage index (MDI) were adopted to assess or quantify their adhesion characteristics and moisture susceptibility. The results found that the rheological properties and creep recovery capacity of the CB were similar to those of the VB, and its fatigue life exhibited an increasing trend with the extension of the thermostatic-treatment duration. In contrast to the modified boiling test, the pull-off test was more effective at evaluating the integration and distinguishing the failure behaviors of the binder-aggregate system. As the thermostatic-treatment duration prolonged, the interfusion between the virgin and the aged binder was facilitated, the cohesion within the binder and the adhesion between the binder and the aggregate was also enhanced, and thus the adhesion performance and moisture-damage resistance of the system were improved.
Characterization of Prepared Superhydrophobic Surfaces on AZ31 and AZ91 Alloys Etched with ZnCl2 and SnCl2
Authors: Doskočil Leoš , Šomanová Pavlína , Másilko Jiří , Buchtík Martin , Hasoňová Michaela , Kalina Lukáš , Wasserbauer Jaromír
Published: September 2022

Superhydrophobic surfaces were prepared using a two-step method that involved the etching of AZ31 and AZ91 magnesium alloys and then modifying the etched alloys with stearic acid. Magnesium alloys etched with ZnCl2 and SnCl2 exhibited surfaces roughened with micro- and nanoscale hierarchical structures consisting of two chemically distinct regions (Zn/Zn(OH)2 or Sn/SnO2 and Mg(OH)2). An optimum etching time of ten minutes was chosen for both etchants. Superhydrophobic surfaces with the highest contact angle were prepared when stearic acid reacted with the etched alloys at 50 °C for 4 h. Stearic acid was bound as zinc stearate and magnesium stearate on Mg alloys etched with ZnCl2 and SnCl2 solutions, respectively. The superhydrophobic process on AZ31 alloys etched with ZnCl2 and SnCl2 improved the corrosion resistance in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) solution compared to bare AZ31 alloy, with the use of ZnCl2 etchant leading to better results. An improvement in the corrosion resistance of AZ91 alloy was observed when the stearic-acid-modified AZ91 alloy was etched with SnCl2. In contrast, the use of ZnCl2 etchant to pretreat AZ91 alloy resulted in a significant deterioration in corrosion properties compared to bare AZ91 alloy. The microstructure of the Mg alloy had an impact on the etching and modification process. On the basis of the findings, a characterization of the chemistry of etching magnesium alloys and the formation of superhydrophobic surfaces was proposed. Magnesium alloys were prepared with superhydrophobic surfaces, incorporating antibacterial metals, features which may increase their potential for use in medical applications.
Effect of Expansion Deformation on the Mechanical Properties and Corrosion Resistance of an AISI 304 Stainless Steel Tube in Water from an Oilfield
Authors: Ren Xiaoming , Yang Wenfei , He Lidong , Li Dejun , Yuan Juntao
Published: September 2022

The effects of expansion deformation on the mechanical properties and corrosion resistance of an AISI 304 stainless steel (SS) tube with dimensions of ϕ 108 mm × 6 mm were studied with a full-scale test, a mechanical property test, microstructural analysis and a corrosion property test in order to explore the feasibility of using AISI 304 SS tubes as solid expandable tubes in repairing damaged well casings. The results showed that the AISI 304 SS tube had good expansion performance, suitable strength after expansion and excellent corrosion resistance, and it met the technical requirements for repairing the casings of common oil wells. After ~11% radial expansion, the internal pressure strength and collapsing strength of the tube were 71 and 32 MPa, respectively. The increase in dislocations, and in the formation of strain-induced martensite and twinning stimulated by plastic deformation, led to the yield strength of the AISI 304 SS tube increasing from 249 to 539 MPa; however, the corrosion resistance of the AISI 304 SS tube was somewhat worsened because of the increase in dislocations and strain-induced martensite caused by expansion deformation. However, the corrosion resistance of the AISI 304 SS tube was still much better than that of conventional casings.
Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction of Artocarpus heterophyllus L. Leaf Protein Concentrate: Solubility, Foaming, Emulsifying, and Antioxidant Properties of Protein Hydrolysates
Authors: Vera-Salgado Julián , Calderón-Chiu Carolina , Calderón-Santoyo Montserrat , Barros-Castillo Julio César , López-García Ulises Miguel , Ragazzo-Sánchez Juan Arturo
Published: September 2022

The impact of ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) was evaluated on the functionality of jackfruit leaf protein hydrolysates. Leaf protein concentrate was obtained by ultrasound (LPCU) and conventional extractions by maceration (LPCM). LPCM and LPCU were hydrolyzed with pancreatin (180 min), and hydrolysates by maceration (HM) and ultrasound (HU) were obtained. The composition of amino acids, techno-functional (solubility, foaming, and emulsifying properties), and antioxidant properties of the hydrolysates were evaluated. A higher amount of essential amino acids was found in HU, while HM showed a higher content of hydrophobic amino acids. LPCs exhibited low solubility (0.97–2.89%). However, HM (67.8 ± 0.98) and HU (77.39 ± 0.43) reached maximum solubility at pH 6.0. The foaming and emulsifying properties of the hydrolysates were improved when LPC was obtained by UAE. The IC50 of LPCs could not be quantified. However, HU (0.29 ± 0.01 mg/mL) showed lower IC50 than HM (0.32 ± 0.01 mg/mL). The results reflect that the extraction method had a significant (p < 0.05) effect on the functionality of protein hydrolysates. The UAE is a suitable method for enhancing of quality, techno-functionality, and antioxidant properties of LPC.
Isolation and Structural Characterization of Alginates from the Kelp Species Laminaria ochroleuca and Saccorhiza polyschides from the Atlantic Coast of Morocco
Authors: Kaidi Soukaina , Bentiss Fouad , Jama Charafeddine , Khaya Khaoula , Belattmania Zahira , Reani Abdeltif , Sabour Brahim
Published: September 2022

Alginates are linear unbranched polysaccharides produced by brown seaweeds. The gel properties of this phycocolloid are mainly linked to the monomer composition, sequential structure and molecular weight of the polymeric chain. Nevertheless, these structural parameters are also dependent on the age and tissue of the thalli used. In this work, the kelp species Laminaria ochroleuca and Saccorhiza polyschides harvested from the Moroccan coast were analyzed for their alginates content and composition in different thalli parts (blade and stipe). Spectroscopic characterization (1H NMR and FT-IR), viscosity, and molecular weight of the extracted alginates were investigated. The obtained results showed that the alginate contents ranged from 20.19 ± 2 to 49.8 ± 2.4% dw. FT-IR spectroscopy exhibited similar spectra between the alginates extracted from both species and the commercial alginate. The 1H-NMR results revealed interesting variations in block composition between species, and less disparity with regard to the tissue type (M/G values ranging from 0.89 to 2.14). High mannuronate content was found in all alginates except for those extracted from the blade of L. ochroleuca. The homopolymeric fractions FMM are remarkably high compared to the FGG and heteropolymeric fractions (FGM/FMG) in S. polyschides. However, for L. ochroleuca, the heteropolymeric fractions are quite abundant, accounting for more than 34% of the polymer diads. The alginates extracted from both species indicated low values for the intrinsic viscosity. Based on the yield and the structural properties of their alginates, this study suggests that both L. ochroleuca and S.polyschides could be considered potential alginophytes to be incorporated into the industry of alginates. It also proposes an optimization of the yield, using the different thalli parts in the extraction (blade and stipe). The chemical structure and viscosity of their alginates may contribute to expanding their applications, especially in biotechnology and medical fields.
Solvent Effects in the Regioselective N-Functionalization of Tautomerizable Heterocycles Catalyzed by Methyl Trifluoromethanesulfonate: A Density Functional Theory Study with Implicit Solvent Model
Authors: Morgon Nelson H. , Biswas Srijit , Duari Surajit , de Souza Aguinaldo R.
Published: September 2022

Methyl trifluoromethanesulfonate was found to catalyze the reaction of the nucleophilic substitution of the hydroxyl group of alcohols by N-heterocycles followed by X- to N- alkyl group migration (X = O, S) to obtain N-functionalized benzoxazolone, benzothiazolethione, indoline, benzoimidazolethione and pyridinone derivatives. A high degree of solvent dependency on the yield of the products was observed during optimization of the reaction parameters. The yield of the product was found to be 0%, 48% and 70% in acetonitrile, 1,2-dichloroethane and chloroform, respectively. The mechanism of the reaction was established through experiments as well as DFT calculations. The functional B3LYP and 6-311++G(d) basis function sets were used to optimize the molecular geometries. D3 Grimme empiric dispersion with Becke–Johnson dumping was employed, and harmonic vibrational frequencies were calculated to characterize the stationary points on the potential energy surface. To ensure that all the stationary points were smoothly connected to each other, intrinsic reaction coordinate (IRC) analyses were performed. The influence of solvents was considered using the solvation model based on density (SMD). The free energy profiles of the mechanisms were obtained with vibrational unscaled zero-point vibrational energy (ZPE), thermal, enthalpy, entropic and solvent corrections.
User Authentication and Authorization Framework in IoT Protocols
Authors: Mohammad Ammar , Al-Refai Hasan , Alawneh Ali
Published: September 2022

The Internet of Things (IoT) has become one of the most attractive domains nowadays. It works by creating a special network between physical devices such as vehicles, home equipment, and other items. In recent days, the common technologies of communication such as Wi-Fi and 2G/3G/4G cellular networks are insufficient for IoT networks because they are designed to serve appliances with immense processing capabilities such as laptops and PCs. Moreover, most of these technologies are centralized and use an existing infrastructure. Currently, new communication technologies such as Z-Wave, 6LowPAN, and Thread are dedicated to the IoT and have been developed to meet its requirements. These technologies can handle many factors such as range, data requirements, security, power demands, and battery life. Nevertheless, the security issues in IoT systems have major concerns and issues because vulnerabilities in such systems may result in fatal catastrophes. In this paper, an enhanced IoT security framework for authentication and authorization is proposed and implemented to protect the IoT protocols from different types of attacks such as man-in-the-middle attacks, reply attacks, and brute force attacks. The proposed framework combines an enhanced token authentication that has identity verification capabilities and a new sender verification mechanism on the IoT device side based on time stamps, which in turn can mitigate the need for local identity verification methods in IoT devices. The proposed IoT security framework was tested using security analysis with different types of attacks compared with previous related frameworks. The analysis shows the high capability of the proposed framework to protect IoT networks against many types of attacks compared with the currently available security frameworks. Finally, the proposed framework was developed using Windows applications to simulate the framework phases, check its validity through the real network, and calculate the payload time added.
The Hwaseong Wetlands Reclamation Area and Tidal Flats, Republic of Korea: A Case of Waterbird Conservation in the Yellow Sea
Authors: Moores Nial , Jung Hanchul , Kim Hwa-Jung , Hwang Bo-Yeon , Hur Wee-Haeng , Borzée Amaël
Published: September 2022

The reclamation of tidal flats is implicated in the declines of a large number of migratory waterbird species along the East Asia-Australasian Flyway, and has resulted in the assessment of Yellow Sea tidal flats as an Endangered habitat by the IUCN. Created in their present form by large-scale reclamation, the Hwaseong Wetlands on the Yellow Sea coast of the Republic of Korea are comprised of tidal flats, a large reclamation lake, and extensive areas of rice-fields and fallow land. As part of preparation for increased protections for these wetlands, we conducted bird surveys between late June 2020 and mid-June 2021. During this period, we recorded more than 150,000 waterbirds in the wetland and concentrations of 1% or more of 25 populations of waterbird. We also recorded a total of 16 globally threatened wetland species. As at many other coastal wetlands in the Yellow Sea, tidal flat obligate waterbird species used the tidal flats for foraging; and roosted in artificial wetlands which had been created through the reclamation process. The extensive areas of rice-field and other freshwater habitats in the Hwaseong Wetlands were also internationally important in their own right, supporting globally threatened amphibians and internationally important concentrations of foraging geese and floodplain-associated waterbird species. The movements of waterbirds between foraging and roosting areas we recorded make clear that conservation of the site’s biodiversity either as a Ramsar site or within a serial World Heritage Property would require protection of all the contiguous tidal flats and also of the most biodiverse rice-field and freshwater wetland areas. As elsewhere in the coastal zone of the Republic of Korea, this would first require the support of local stakeholders and also a reduction in jurisdictional issues between various local and national decision-making bodies.
Cl-Doped CdTe Crystal Growth for Medical Imaging Applications
Authors: Gul Rubi , McCloy John Stuart , Murugesan Magesh , Montag Benjamin , Singh Jasdeep
Published: September 2022

CdTe:Cl doped single crystals were grown under conditions of tellurium excess by using an accelerated crucible rotation technique, modified vertical Bridgman (ACRT-MVB) method. Chlorine dopant levels were kept at 4.4 × 1019 at·cm−3, for all growths, while the Te excess level varied from 3.5 to 15% by weight. The relationship between the detector performance, Te inclusions, and resistivity was investigated in detail. Tellurium excess caused additional nucleation which decreased the average single crystal grain size. At the same time, the increasing Te excess level improved the electrical transport properties. In the three Cl-doped, and one In-doped CdTe crystals, detectors from Cl-doped CdTe grown under 15% Te excess showed better response to gammas and alphas, and high µτ for electrons (1.8 × 10−3 cm2/V), as well as for holes (5.1 × 10−4 cm2/V). The full-width half maximum for the Cl-doped CdTe were very large, as the peaks were broadened, especially at high bias. This could be due to hole trapping in a Cl-related A-center (VCd-ClTe)−, and in Cd- vacancies (VCd)−, and electron trapping in Te-antisites (TeCd)+.
Composition Engineering of (Lu,Gd,Tb)3(Al,Ga)5O12:Ce Film/Gd3(Al,Ga)5O12:Ce Substrate Scintillators
Authors: Sidletskiy Oleg , Gorbenko Vitalii , Zorenko Tetiana , Syrotych Yurii , Witkiwicz-Łukaszek Sandra , Mares Jiri A. , Kucerkova Romana , Nikl Martin , Gerasymov Iaroslav , Kurtsev Daniil , Fedorov Alexander , Zorenko Yuriy
Published: September 2022

The paper addresses the development of composite scintillation materials providing simultaneous real-time monitoring of different types of ionizing radiation (α-, β-particles, γ-rays) in mixed fluxes of particles and quanta. The detectors are based on composite heavy oxide scintillators consisting of a thin single-crystalline film and a bulk single-crystal substrate. The film and substrate respond to certain types of ionizing particles, forming together an all-in-one composite scintillator capable of distinguishing the type of radiation through the different time characteristics of the scintillation response. Here, we report the structure, composition, and scintillation properties under different ionizing radiations of (Lu,Gd,Tb)3(Al,Ga)5O12:Ce films deposited using liquid phase epitaxy onto Gd3(Al1−xGax)5O12:Ce (GAGG:Ce) single-crystal substrates. The most promising compositions with the highest light yields and the largest differences in scintillation decay timing under irradiation with α-, β-particles, and γ-rays were selected. Such detectors are promising for environmental security purposes, medical tomography, and other radiation detection applications.
A Novel Epoxy Resin-Based Composite with Zirconium and Boron Oxides: An Investigation of Photon Attenuation
Authors: Elsafi Mohamed , Almousa Nouf , Almasoud Fahad I. , Almurayshid Mansour , Alyahyawi Amjad R. , Sayyed M. I.
Published: September 2022

We have attempted to develop the gamma radiation shielding abilities of newly prepared epoxy composites by introducing ZrO2. The radiation shielding parameters are experimentally reported below. The experimental setup included an HPGe detector and different radioactive point sources which emitted photons with energies of 0.06, 0.662, 1.173, and 1.333 MeV. The gamma radiation shielding abilities of the epoxy composites were examined in the context of the linear attenuation coefficient (LAC), half-value layer (HVL), radiation absorption ratio, and other factors. The experimental and Phy-X results for the LAC were compared, and acceptable consistency was reported. The lowest LAC values were reported for EBZr-0 (free of ZrO2), and we found that the photon attenuation competence of the present epoxy improved as a result of increasing the ZrO2 content. We compared the LAC values for the present epoxy composites with other samples, and we found that the prepared composites with 20% to 40% ZrO2 had higher LAC values than epoxy with 30% Yahyali Stone. The HVL lengths of the epoxy composites reduced with the addition of ZrO2 for the four selected energies, which confirmed that introducing ZrO2 improves the radiation absorption abilities of epoxy composites. At 0.06 MeV, the HVL for the ZrO2-free epoxy was 2.60 cm, which fell to 0.23 cm after adding 40% ZrO2. The mean free path (MFP) for the prepared composites was less than 1 cm at 0.06 MeV (standard for EBZr-0), while it was 1.32 cm for EBZr-10. For the other energies, it was higher than 6 cm, and became higher than 10 cm at 1.333 MeV for all composites. The obtained results suggest that non-toxic, natural, and cheap epoxy composites with high ZrO2 content have the potential to improve the gamma ray shielding competence of epoxy composites for low energy radiation applications.
Epitaxial Lateral Overgrowth of {11-22} InGaN Layers Using Patterned InGaN Template and Improvement of Optical Properties from Multiple Quantum Wells
Authors: Okada Narihito , Tadatomo Kazuyuki
Published: September 2022

We report the growth and characterization of thick, completely relaxed {11-22}-oriented InGaN layers using epitaxial lateral overgrowth (ELO). Although it was difficult to grow ELO-InGaN layers on patterned GaN templates, we succeeded in growing ELO-InGaN layers on a patterned InGaN template. The full width at half maximum of the X-ray rocking curve of ELO-InGaN on the InGaN templates was less than that of non-ELO InGaN. The photoluminescence intensity of InGaN/GaN multiple quantum wells on ELO-InGaN was approximately five times stronger than that on the {11-22} GaN template.
Lessons from Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Smoking Cessation Programs for Cancer Patients
Authors: Hoch Jeffrey S. , Barr Heather K. , Guggenbickler Andrea M. , Dewa Carolyn S.
Published: September 2022

Background: Smoking among patients diagnosed with cancer poses important health and financial challenges including reduced effectiveness of expensive cancer therapies. This study explores the value of smoking cessation programs (SCPs) for patients already diagnosed with cancer. It also identifies conditions under which SPCs may be wise investments. Methods: Using a simplified decision analytic model combined with insights from a literature review, we explored the cost-effectiveness of SCPs. Results: The findings provide insights about the potential impact of cessation probabilities among cancer patients in SCPs and the potential impact of SCPs on cancer patients’ lives. Conclusion: The evidence suggests that there is good reason to believe that SCPs are an economically attractive way to improve outcomes for cancer patients when SCPs are offered in conjunction with standard cancer care.
The Herbaceous Understory Plant Community in the Context of the Overstory: An Overlooked Component of Tropical Diversity
Authors: Perea Ramón , Schroeder John W. , Dirzo Rodolfo
Published: September 2022

Lowland tropical rainforests harbor the most diverse plant communities in the world, but the herbaceous plants of the understory are often overlooked. To address this knowledge gap, we asked to what extent the understory herbaceous community contributes to the species richness and phylogenetic diversity of plant communities by surveying a neotropical rainforest at Los Tuxtlas, Mexico. We used Gentry transects to characterize the woody overstory community, and line-intercepts within the same transects to survey understory herbs and subshrubs. We also used published phylogenies to calculate community phylogenetic diversity with and without the understory stratum. We found that the understory contained a diverse (23 species, or 22.1% of all species surveyed) and phylogenetically distinct plant community dominated by aroids (13 species) and ferns (4 species). Inclusion of the understory stratum increased total species richness by 28.4% but increased phylogenetic diversity by 41.4%. Additionally, in contrast to temperate forests, the understory plant community was much less diverse than the overstory, which contained 81 species > 1 cm dbh (77.9% of all species surveyed). This survey adds to the hitherto small body of literature comparing understory and overstory strata in tropical rainforests and reveals previously overlooked patterns of floristic diversity.
Species-Level Versus Community-Level Responses to Microhabitat Type and Diversity in an Experimental Plant Community
Authors: Hu Bing , Xu Zhu-Wen , Xue Wei , Yu Fei-Hai
Published: September 2022

Soil heterogeneity has been theoretically predicted to promote plant performance, but empirical evidence is often mixed. By focusing on a gradient of microhabitats (single, three and six types of microhabitats), we tested the hypothesis that increasing the number of microhabitats promotes the diversity and productivity of plant communities. We created different types of microhabitats by adding different forms of nitrogen (NH4+, NO3− and glycine) or combinations of these nitrogen in an even or patchy way. Community biomass, but not evenness, differed in different types of single-microhabitat. Increasing the number of microhabitat types did not alter community growth or evenness, but it increased the difference in the relative abundance of plant species within the community. These results suggest that microhabitat diversity can influence plant competitive hierarchies, and that this effect can lead to changed community growth, but may not be decisive for plant evenness.