bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integration of Classical Mathematical Modeling with an Artificial Neural Network for the Problems with Limited Dataset
Authors: Buchaniec Szymon , Gnatowski Marek , Brus Grzegorz
Published: August 2021

One of the most common problems in science is to investigate a function describing a system. When the estimate is made based on a classical mathematical model (white-box), the function is obtained throughout solving a differential equation. Alternatively, the prediction can be made by an artificial neural network (black-box) based on trends found in past data. Both approaches have their advantages and disadvantages. Mathematical models were seen as more trustworthy as their prediction is based on the laws of physics expressed in the form of mathematical equations. However, the majority of existing mathematical models include different empirical parameters, and both approaches inherit inevitable experimental errors. Simultaneously, the approximation of neural networks can reproduce the solution exceptionally well if fed sufficient data. The difference is that an artificial neural network requires big data to build its accurate approximation, whereas a typical mathematical model needs several data points to estimate an empirical constant. Therefore, the common problem that developers meet is the inaccuracy of mathematical models and artificial neural networks. Another common challenge is the mathematical models’ computational complexity or lack of data for a sufficient precision of the artificial neural networks. Here we analyze a grey-box solution in which an artificial neural network predicts just a part of the mathematical model, and its weights are adjusted based on the mathematical model’s output using the evolutionary approach to avoid overfitting. The performance of the grey-box model is statistically compared to a Dense Neural Network on benchmarking functions. With the use of Shaffer procedure, it was shown that the grey-box approach performs exceptionally well when the overall complexity of a problem is properly distributed with the mathematical model and the Artificial Neural Network. The obtained calculation results indicate that such an approach could increase precision and limit the dataset required for learning. To show the applicability of the presented approach, it was employed in modeling of the electrochemical reaction in the Solid Oxide Fuel Cell’s anode. Implementation of a grey-box model improved the prediction in comparison to the typically used methodology.
Effects of Bamboo (Phyllostachys praecox) Cultivation on Soil Nitrogen Fractions and Mineralization
Authors: Qian Zhuangzhuang , Sun Xiao , Gao Jianshuang , Zhuang Shunyao
Published: August 2021

The mineralization of soil organic nitrogen (N) is the key process in the cycling of N in terrestrial ecosystems. Land-use change to bamboo (Phyllostachys praecox) cultivation that later entails organic material mulching combined with chemical fertilizer application will inevitably influence soil N mineralization (Nmin) and availability dynamics. However, the soil Nmin rates associated with various N fractions of P. praecox in response to land-use change and mulching are not well understood. The present study aimed to understand the effects of land-use change to P. praecox bamboo cultivation and organic material mulching on soil Nmin and availability. Soil properties and organic N fractions were measured in a P. praecox field planted on former paddy fields, a mulched P. praecox field, and a rice (Oryza sativa L.) field. Soil Nmin was determined using a batch incubation method, with mathematical models used to predict soil Nmin kinetics and potential. The conversion from a paddy field to P. praecox plantation decreased the soil pH, soil total N, and soil organic matter (SOM) content significantly (p < 0.05); the mulching method induced further soil acidification. The mulching treatment significantly augmented the SOM content by 7.08% compared with the no-mulching treatment (p < 0.05), but it decreased soil hydrolyzable N and increased the nonhydrolyzable N (NHN) content. Both the Nmin rate and cumulative mineralized N were lowest in the mulched bamboo field. The kinetics of Nmin was best described by the ‘two-pool model’ and ‘special model’. The Pearson’s correlation analysis and the Mantel test suggested soil pH was the dominant factor controlling the soil cumulative mineralized N and mineralization potential in the bamboo fields. These findings could help us better understand the N cycling and N availability under mulching conditions for shifts in land use, and provide a scientific basis for the sustainable management of bamboo plantations.
Cooperative Game for Fish Harvesting and Pollution Control
Authors: Goudiaby Mouhamadou Samsidy , Dia Ben Mansour , Diagne Mamadou L. , Tembine Hamidou
Published: August 2021

This paper studies fishery strategies in lakes, seas, and shallow rivers subject to agricultural and industrial pollution. The flowing pollutants are modeled by a nonlinear differential equation in a general manner. The logistic growth model for the fish population is modified to cover the pollution impact on the fish growth rate. We start by presenting the stability analysis of the dynamical system to discern the different types of the evolution of the fish population according to human actions. A cooperative game is formulated to design strategies for preserving the fish population by controlling the pollution as well as the fish stock for harvesting. The sufficient conditions for implementing the cooperative strategy are investigated through an incentive design approach with an adaptive taxation policy for the players. Numerical results are presented to illustrate the benefit of the cooperative for fish population preservation but also for the players’ rewards.
Microstructured Hyaluronic Acid Hydrogel for Tooth Germ Bioengineering
Authors: Park Sol , Huang Naomi W. Y. , Wong Cheryl X. Y. , Pan Jing , Albakr Lamyaa , Gu Jing , Kang Lifeng
Published: August 2021

Tooth loss has been found to adversely affect not just masticatory and speech functions, but also psychological health and quality of life. Currently, teeth replacement options include dentures, bridges, and implants. However, these artificial replacement options remain inferior to biological replacements due to their reduced efficiency, the need for replacements, and the risk of immunological rejection. To this end, there has been a heightened interest in the bioengineering of teeth in recent years. While there have been reports of successfully regenerated teeth, controlling the size and shape of bioengineered teeth remains a challenge. In this study, methacrylated hyaluronic acid (MeHA) was synthesized and microstructured in a hydrogel microwell array using soft lithography. The resulting MeHA hydrogel microwell scaffold resembles the shape of a naturally developing human tooth germ. To facilitate the epithelial–mesenchymal interactions, human adult low calcium high temperature (HaCaT) cells were seeded on the surface of the hydrogels and dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) were encapsulated inside the hydrogels. It was found that hydrogel scaffolds were able to preserve the viability of both types of cells and they appeared to favor signaling between epithelial and mesenchymal cells, which is necessary in the promotion of cell proliferation. As such, the hydrogel scaffolds offer a promising system for the bioengineering of human tooth germs in vitro.
Utility of Gene Panels for the Diagnosis of Inborn Errors of Metabolism in a Metabolic Reference Center
Authors: Barbosa-Gouveia Sofia , Vázquez-Mosquera María E. , González-Vioque Emiliano , Álvarez José V. , Chans Roi , Laranjeira Francisco , Martins Esmeralda , Ferreira Ana Cristina , Avila-Alvarez Alejandro , Couce María L.
Published: August 2021

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies have been proposed as a first-line test for the diagnosis of inborn errors of metabolism (IEM), a group of genetically heterogeneous disorders with overlapping or nonspecific phenotypes. Over a 3-year period, we prospectively analyzed 311 pediatric patients with a suspected IEM using four targeted gene panels. The rate of positive diagnosis was 61.86% for intermediary metabolism defects, 32.84% for complex molecular defects, 19% for hypoglycemic/hyperglycemic events, and 17% for mitochondrial diseases, and a conclusive molecular diagnosis was established in 2–4 weeks. Forty-one patients for whom negative results were obtained with the mitochondrial diseases panel underwent subsequent analyses using the NeuroSeq panel, which groups all genes from the individual panels together with genes associated with neurological disorders (1870 genes in total). This achieved a diagnostic rate of 32%. We next evaluated the utility of a tool, Phenomizer, for differential diagnosis, and established a correlation between phenotype and molecular findings in 39.3% of patients. Finally, we evaluated the mutational architecture of the genes analyzed by determining z-scores, loss-of-function observed/expected upper bound fraction (LOEUF), and haploinsufficiency (HI) scores. In summary, targeted gene panels for specific groups of IEMs enabled rapid and effective diagnosis, which is critical for the therapeutic management of IEM patients.
Epigenetic Regulation of Circadian Clocks and Its Involvement in Drug Addiction
Authors: Saad Lamis , Zwiller Jean , Kalsbeek Andries , Anglard Patrick
Published: August 2021

Based on studies describing an increased prevalence of addictive behaviours in several rare sleep disorders and shift workers, a relationship between circadian rhythms and addiction has been hinted for more than a decade. Although circadian rhythm alterations and molecular mechanisms associated with neuropsychiatric conditions are an area of active investigation, success is limited so far, and further investigations are required. Thus, even though compelling evidence connects the circadian clock to addictive behaviour and vice-versa, yet the functional mechanism behind this interaction remains largely unknown. At the molecular level, multiple mechanisms have been proposed to link the circadian timing system to addiction. The molecular mechanism of the circadian clock consists of a transcriptional/translational feedback system, with several regulatory loops, that are also intricately regulated at the epigenetic level. Interestingly, the epigenetic landscape shows profound changes in the addictive brain, with significant alterations in histone modification, DNA methylation, and small regulatory RNAs. The combination of these two observations raises the possibility that epigenetic regulation is a common plot linking the circadian clocks with addiction, though very little evidence has been reported to date. This review provides an elaborate overview of the circadian system and its involvement in addiction, and we hypothesise a possible connection at the epigenetic level that could further link them. Therefore, we think this review may further improve our understanding of the etiology or/and pathology of psychiatric disorders related to drug addiction.
Genetic Testing for Cancer Risk: Is the Community Willing to Pay for It?
Authors: Aizuddin Azimatun Noor , Ramdzan Abdul Rahman , Syed Omar Sharifah Azween , Mahmud Zuria , Latiff Zarina A. , Amat Salleh , Teik Keng Wee , Siew Ch’ng Gaik , Rais Haniza , Aljunid Syed Mohamed
Published: August 2021

With the increasing number of cancer cases worldwide, genetic testing for familiar cancers seems inevitable, yet little is known on population interest and the monetary value for cancer genetic risk information. The current study aimed to determine the willingness to undergo and pay for cancer genetic testing among the Malaysian population. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to cancer patients and their family members in the oncology and daycare units in several government hospitals. Of 641 respondents (354 patients, 287 family members), 267 (41.7%) were willing to undergo cancer genetic testing. The median that respondents were willing to pay was USD 48.31 (MYR 200.00) IQR USD 96.91 (MYR 400), while 143 (22.3%) respondents were willing to pay a shared cost with the insurance company. Regression analysis identified independent positive predictors of willingness to pay as respondent’s status as a family member, high education level, and willingness to undergo cancer genetic testing in general, while in patients, female gender and high level of education were identified as independent positive predictors. Generally, the population needs more information to undergo and pay for cancer genetic testing. This will increase the utilization of the services offered, and with cost-sharing practices with the provider, it can be implemented population-wide.
Genetic Variants and Tumor Immune Microenvironment: Clues for Targeted Therapies in Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC)
Authors: Gong Yulan , Nagarathinam Rajeswari , Arisi Maria F. , Gerratana Lorenzo , Winn Jennifer S. , Slifker Michael , Pei Jianming , Cai Kathy Q. , Hasse Zachary , Obeid Elias , Noriega Julio , Sebastiano Christopher , Ross Eric , Alpaugh Katherine , Cristofanilli Massimo , Fernandez Sandra V.
Published: August 2021

To better understand the etiology of inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) and identify potential therapies, we studied genomic alterations in IBC patients. Targeted, next-generation sequencing (NGS) was performed on cell-free DNA (cfDNA) (n = 33) and paired DNA from tumor tissues (n = 29) from 32 IBC patients. We confirmed complementarity between cfDNA and tumor tissue genetic profiles. We found a high incidence of germline variants in IBC patients that could be associated with an increased risk of developing the disease. Furthermore, 31% of IBC patients showed deficiencies in the homologous recombination repair (HRR) pathway (BRCA1, BRCA2, PALB2, RAD51C, ATM, BARD1) making them sensitive to poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors. We also characterized the tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in tumor tissue biopsies by studying several markers (CD4, CD8, FoxP3, CD20, PD-1, and PD-L1) through immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining. In 7 of 24 (29%) patients, tumor biopsies were positive for PD-L1 and PD-1 expression on TILs, making them sensitive to PD-1/PD-L1 blocking therapies. Our results provide a rationale for considering PARP inhibitors and PD-1/PDL1 blocking immunotherapy in qualifying IBC patients.
Role of Neuroinflammation and Blood-Brain Barrier Permutability on Migraine
Authors: Yamanaka Gaku , Suzuki Shinji , Morishita Natsumi , Takeshita Mika , Kanou Kanako , Takamatsu Tomoko , Suzuki Shunsuke , Morichi Shinichiro , Watanabe Yusuke , Ishida Yu , Go Soken , Oana Shingo , Kashiwagi Yasuyo , Kawashima Hisashi
Published: August 2021

Currently, migraine is treated mainly by targeting calcitonin gene-related peptides, although the efficacy of this method is limited and new treatment strategies are desired. Neuroinflammation has been implicated in the pathogenesis of migraine. In patients with migraine, peripheral levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor-α, are known to be increased. Additionally, animal models of headache have demonstrated that immunological responses associated with cytokines are involved in the pathogenesis of migraine. Furthermore, these inflammatory mediators might alter the function of tight junctions in brain vascular endothelial cells in animal models, but not in human patients. Based on clinical findings showing elevated IL-1β, and experimental findings involving IL-1β and both the peripheral trigeminal ganglion and central trigeminal vascular pathways, regulation of the Il-1β/IL-1 receptor type 1 axis might lead to new treatments for migraine. However, the integrity of the blood-brain barrier is not expected to be affected during attacks in patients with migraine.
Resveratrol and Quercetin as Regulators of Inflammatory and Purinergic Receptors to Attenuate Liver Damage Associated to Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Cano-Martínez Agustina , Bautista-Pérez Rocío , Castrejón-Téllez Vicente , Carreón-Torres Elizabeth , Pérez-Torres Israel , Díaz-Díaz Eulises , Flores-Estrada Javier , Guarner-Lans Verónica , Rubio-Ruíz María Esther
Published: August 2021

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is considered a manifestation of metabolic syndrome (MS) and is characterized by the accumulation of triglycerides and a varying degree of hepatic injury, inflammation, and repair. Moreover, peroxisome-proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) play a critical role in the pathophysiological processes in the liver. There is extensive evidence of the beneficial effect of polyphenols such as resveratrol (RSV) and quercetin (QRC) on the treatment of liver pathology; however, the mechanisms underlying their beneficial effects have not been fully elucidated. In this work, we show that the mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of RSV and QRC against inflammation in liver damage in our MS model are due to the activation of novel pathways which have not been previously described such as the downregulation of the expression of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), neutrophil elastase (NE) and purinergic receptor P2Y2. This downregulation leads to a decrease in apoptosis and hepatic fibrosis with no changes in hepatocyte proliferation. In addition, PPAR alpha and gamma expression were altered in MS but their expression was not affected by the treatment with the natural compounds. The improvement of liver damage by the administration of polyphenols was reflected in the normalization of serum transaminase activities.
Cell-Free DNA in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Hashimoto Teppei , Yoshida Kohsuke , Hashiramoto Akira , Matsui Kiyoshi
Published: August 2021

Endogenous DNA derived from the nuclei or mitochondria is released into the bloodstream following cell damage or death. Extracellular DNA, called cell-free DNA (cfDNA), is associated with various pathological conditions. Recently, multiple aspects of cfDNA have been assessed, including cfDNA levels, integrity, methylation, and mutations. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the most common form of autoimmune arthritis, and treatment of RA has highly varied outcomes. cfDNA in patients with RA is elevated in peripheral blood and synovial fluid and is associated with disease activity. Profiling of cfDNA in patients with RA may then be utilized in various aspects of clinical practice, such as the prediction of prognosis and treatment responses; monitoring disease state; and as a diagnostic marker. In this review, we discuss cfDNA in patients with RA, particularly the sources of cfDNA and the correlation of cfDNA with RA pathogenesis. We also highlight the potential of analyzing cfDNA profiles to guide individualized treatment approaches for RA.
Influence of Temperature and Photoperiod on the Fecundity of Habrobracon hebetor Say (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) and on the Paralysis of Host Larvae, Plodia interpunctella (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)
Authors: Mbata George N. , Warsi Sanower , Payton Mark E.
Published: August 2021

Studies were carried out in the laboratory to understand the optimum environmental conditions at which the ectoparasitoid, Habrobracon hebetor Say (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), can paralyze and lay eggs when reared on the larvae of the stored product pest, Plodia interpunctella Hübner (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae). At the four temperatures investigated (20, 25, 30, and 35 °C), optimum temperatures for oviposition were found to be 25 and 30 °C, while 35 °C was the least favorable temperature. No significant differences were found between the percentages of diapausing and non-diapausing larvae paralyzed by the wasp at the temperatures of 20, 25, 30, 35 °C within 5 days. However, in another experiment that investigated the effect of photoperiods at different temperatures that included 15, 19 and 28 °C, the number of paralyzed larvae was highly reduced at low temperatures (15 °C) but photoperiods had no significant impact on the number of host larvae paralyzed. In addition, observations at short time intervals also showed that lower temperatures slowed down host larvae paralysis. The results suggest that H. hebetor can paralyze host larvae of P. interpunctella more efficiently and deposit more eggs at temperatures within the range of 20–30 °C.
The Role of Pain Catastrophizing and Pain Acceptance in Performance-Based and Self-Reported Physical Functioning in Individuals with Fibromyalgia and Obesity
Authors: Varallo Giorgia , Scarpina Federica , Giusti Emanuele Maria , Suso-Ribera Carlos , Cattivelli Roberto , Guerrini Usubini Anna , Capodaglio Paolo , Castelnuovo Gianluca
Published: August 2021

Impaired physical functioning is one of the most critical consequences associated with fibromyalgia, especially when there is comorbid obesity. Psychological factors are known to contribute to perceived (i.e., subjective) physical functioning. However, physical function is a multidimensional concept encompassing both subjective and objective functioning. The contribution of psychological factors to performance-based (i.e., objective) functioning is unclear. This study aims to investigate the contribution of pain catastrophizing and pain acceptance to both self-reported and performance-based physical functioning. In this cross-sectional study, 160 participants completed self-report measures of pain catastrophizing, pain acceptance, and pain severity. A self-report measure and a performance-based test were used to assess physical functioning. Higher pain catastrophizing and lower pain acceptance were associated with poorer physical functioning at both self-reported and performance-based levels. Our results are consistent with previous evidence on the association between pain catastrophizing and pain acceptance with self-reported physical functioning. This study contributes to the current literature by providing novel insights into the role of psychological factors in performance-based physical functioning. Multidisciplinary interventions that address pain catastrophizing and pain acceptance are recommended and might be effective to improve both perceived and performance-based functioning in women with FM and obesity.
Plateletworks® as a Point-of-Care Test for ASA Non-Sensitivity
Authors: Khan Hamzah , Jain Shubha , Gallant Reid C. , Syed Muzammil H. , Zamzam Abdelrahman , Al-Omran Mohammed , Rand Margaret L. , Ni Heyu , Abdin Rawand , Qadura Mohammad
Published: August 2021

Aspirin (ASA) therapy is proven to be effective in preventing adverse cardiovascular events; however, up to 30% of patients are non-sensitive to their prescribed ASA dosage. In this pilot study, we demonstrated, for the first time, how ASA non-sensitivity can be diagnosed using Plateletworks®, a point-of-care platelet function test. Patients prescribed 81 mg of ASA were recruited in a series of two successive phases—a discovery phase and a validation phase. In the discovery phase, a total of 60 patients were recruited to establish a cut-off point (COP) for ASA non-sensitivity using Plateletworks®. Each sample was simultaneously cross-referenced with a light transmission aggregometer (LTA). Our findings demonstrated that >52% maximal platelet aggregation using Plateletworks® had a sensitivity, specificity, and likelihood ratio of 80%, 70%, and 2.67, respectively, in predicting ASA non-sensitivity. This COP was validated in a secondary cohort of 40 patients prescribed 81 mg of ASA using Plateletworks® and LTA. Our data demonstrated that our established COP had a 91% sensitivity and 69% specificity in identifying ASA non-sensitivity using Plateletworks®. In summary, Plateletworks® is a point-of-care platelet function test that can appropriately diagnose ASA non-sensitive patients with a sensitivity exceeding 80%.
Coercivity Mechanism and Magnetization Reversal in Anisotropic Ce-(Y)-Pr-Fe-B Films
Authors: Ma Jun , Zhao Xiaotian , Liu Wei , Li Yang , Liu Long , Song Yuhang , Xie Yuanhua , Zhao Xinguo , Zhang Zhidong
Published: August 2021

In this study, the magnetic properties, coercivity mechanism, and magnetization reversal process were investigated for Ce-(Y)-Pr-Fe-B films. After the addition of Y and subsequent heating treatment, the formations of REO (RE ≡ Ce and Pr) and REFe2 (RE ≡ rare earths) phases are inhibited, and the microstructure of Ce-Y-Pr-Fe-B film is optimized. Meanwhile, the coercivity and the squareness of the hysteresis loop are significantly improved. The coercivity mechanism of Ce-Y-Pr-Fe-B film is determined to be a mixture of nucleation and pinning mechanisms, but dominated by the nucleation mechanism. The demagnetization results show that the nucleation of reversal magnetic domains leads to irreversible reversal. Our results are helpful to understand the coercivity mechanism and magnetization reversal of permanent magnetic films with multi-main phases.
Evaluating the Prospects of Ti-Base Lattice Infiltrated with Biodegradable Zn–2%Fe Alloy as a Structural Material for Osseointegrated Implants—In Vitro Study
Authors: Gabay Noa , Ron Tomer , Vago Razi , Shirizly Amnon , Aghion Eli
Published: August 2021

The term “osseointegrated implants” mainly relates to structural systems that contain open spaces, which enable osteoblasts and connecting tissue to migrate during natural bone growth. Consequently, the coherency and bonding strength between the implant and natural bone can be significantly increased, for example in operations related to dental and orthopedic applications. The present study aims to evaluate the prospects of a Ti–6Al–4V lattice, produced by selective laser melting (SLM) and infiltrated with biodegradable Zn2%Fe alloy, as an OI–TiZn system implant in in vitro conditions. This combined material structure is designated by this study as an osseointegrated implant (OI–TiZn) system. The microstructure of the tested alloys was examined both optically and using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The mechanical properties were assessed in terms of compression strength, as is commonly acceptable in cases of lattice-based structures. The corrosion performance was evaluated by immersion tests and electrochemical analysis in terms of potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), all in simulated physiological environments in the form of phosphate buffered saline (PBS) solution. The cytotoxicity was evaluated in terms of indirect cell viability. The results obtained demonstrate the adequate performance of the OI–TiZn system as a non-cytotoxic structural material that can maintain its mechanical integrity under compression, while presenting acceptable corrosion rate degradation.
Investigation of Lithium Ion Diffusion of Graphite Anode by the Galvanostatic Intermittent Titration Technique
Authors: Park Jong Hyun , Yoon Hana , Cho Younghyun , Yoo Chung-Yul
Published: August 2021

Graphite is used as a state-of-the-art anode in commercial lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) due to its highly reversible lithium-ion storage capability and low electrode potential. However, graphite anodes exhibit sluggish diffusion kinetics for lithium-ion intercalation/deintercalation, thus limiting the rate capability of commercial LIBs. In order to determine the lithium-ion diffusion coefficient of commercial graphite anodes, we employed a galvanostatic intermittent titration technique (GITT) to quantify the quasi-equilibrium open circuit potential and diffusion coefficient as a function of lithium-ion concentration and potential for a commercial graphite electrode. Three plateaus are observed in the quasi-equilibrium open circuit potential curves, which are indicative of a mixed phase upon lithium-ion intercalation/deintercalation. The obtained diffusion coefficients tend to increase with increasing lithium concentration and exhibit an insignificant difference between charge and discharge conditions. This study reveals that the diffusion coefficient of graphite obtained with the GITT (1 × 10−11 cm2/s to 4 × 10−10 cm2/s) is in reasonable agreement with literature values obtained from electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The GITT is comparatively simple and direct and therefore enables systematic measurements of ion intercalation/deintercalation diffusion coefficients for secondary ion battery materials.
High-Performance SiC–Based Solar Receivers for CSP: Component Manufacturing and Joining
Authors: Casalegno Valentina , Ferrari Luca , Jimenez Fuentes Maria , De Zanet Alessandro , Gianella Sandro , Ferraris Monica , Candelario Victor M.
Published: August 2021

Concentrated solar power (CSP) is an important option as a competitive, secure, and sustainable energy system. At the moment, cost-effective solutions are required for a wider-scale deployment of the CSP technology: in particular, the industrial exploitation of CSP has been so far hindered by limitations in the materials used for the central receiver—a key component in the system. In this context, the H2020 NEXTOWER project is focused on next-generation CSP technologies, particularly on advanced materials for high temperatures (e.g., >900 °C) and extreme applications environments (e.g., corrosive). The research activity described in this paper is focused on two industrial solutions for new SiC ceramic receivers for high thermal gradient continued operations: porous SiC and silicon-infiltrated silicon carbide ceramics (SiSiC). The new receivers should be mechanically tough and highly thermally conductive. This paper presents the activity related to the manufacturing of these components, their joining, and characterization.
Combined Nanofiltration and Thermocatalysis for the Simultaneous Degradation of Micropollutants, Fouling Mitigation and Water Purification
Authors: Janowska Katarzyna , Ma Xianzheng , Boffa Vittorio , Jørgensen Mads Koustrup , Candelario Victor M.
Published: August 2021

Due to progressive limitation of access to clean drinkable water, it is nowadays a priority to find an effective method of water purification from those emerging organic contaminants, which might have potentially harmful and irreversible effects on living organisms and environment. This manuscript reports the development of a new strategy for water purification, which combines a novel and recently developed Al2O3-doped silica nanofiltration membrane with a thermocatalytic perovskite, namely cerium-doped strontium ferrate (CSF). The thermocatalytic activity of CSF offers the opportunity to degrade organic pollutants with no light and without input of chemical oxidants, providing simplicity of operation. Moreover, our studies on real samples of secondary effluent from wastewater treatment showed that the thermocatalyst has the ability to degrade also part of the non-toxic organic matter, which allows for reducing the chemical oxygen demand of the retentate and mitigating membrane fouling during filtration. Therefore, the new technology is effective in the production of clean feed and permeate and has a potential to be used in degradation of micropollutants in water treatment.
E-Waste Recycling and Resource Recovery: A Review on Technologies, Barriers and Enablers with a Focus on Oceania
Authors: Van Yken Jonovan , Boxall Naomi J. , Cheng Ka Yu , Nikoloski Aleksandar N. , Moheimani Navid R. , Kaksonen Anna H.
Published: August 2021

Electronic e-waste (e-waste) is a growing problem worldwide. In 2019, total global production reached 53.6 million tons, and is estimated to increase to 74.7 million tons by 2030. This rapid increase is largely fuelled by higher consumption rates of electrical and electronic goods, shorter life cycles and fewer repair options. E-waste is classed as a hazardous substance, and if not collected and recycled properly, can have adverse environmental impacts. The recoverable material in e-waste represents significant economic value, with the total value of e-waste generated in 2019 estimated to be US $57 billion. Despite the inherent value of this waste, only 17.4% of e-waste was recycled globally in 2019, which highlights the need to establish proper recycling processes at a regional level. This review provides an overview of global e-waste production and current technologies for recycling e-waste and recovery of valuable material such as glass, plastic and metals. The paper also discusses the barriers and enablers influencing e-waste recycling with a specific focus on Oceania.
Application of Artificial Neural Network to the Prediction of Tensile Properties in High-Strength Low-Carbon Bainitic Steels
Authors: Lee Sang-In , Shin Seung-Hyeok , Hwang Byoungchul
Published: August 2021

An artificial neural network (ANN) model was designed to predict the tensile properties in high-strength, low-carbon bainitic steels with a focus on the fraction of constituents such as PF (polygonal ferrite), AF (acicular ferrite), GB (granular bainite), and BF (bainitic ferrite). The input parameters of the model were the fraction of constituents, while the output parameters of the model were composed of the yield strength, yield-to-tensile ratio, and uniform elongation. The ANN model to predict the tensile properties exhibited a higher accuracy than the multi linear regression (MLR) model. According to the average index of the relative importance for the input parameters, the yield strength, yield-to-tensile ratio, and uniform elongation could be effectively improved by increasing the fraction of AF, bainitic microstructures (AF, GB, and BF), and PF, respectively, in terms of the work hardening and dislocation slip behavior depending on their microstructural characteristics such as grain size and dislocation density. The ANN model is expected to provide a clearer understanding of the complex relationships between constituent fraction and tensile properties in high-strength, low-carbon bainitic steels.
Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis Proteome Changes Profoundly in Milk
Authors: Kleinwort Kristina J. H. , Hobmaier Bernhard F. , Mayer Ricarda , Hölzel Christina , Degroote Roxane L. , Märtlbauer Erwin , Hauck Stefanie M. , Deeg Cornelia A.
Published: August 2021

Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) are detectable viable in milk and other dairy products. The molecular mechanisms allowing the adaptation of MAP in these products are still poorly understood. To obtain information about respective adaptation of MAP in milk, we differentially analyzed the proteomes of MAP cultivated for 48 h in either milk at 37 °C or 4 °C or Middlebrook 7H9 broth as a control. From a total of 2197 MAP proteins identified, 242 proteins were at least fivefold higher in abundance in milk. MAP responded to the nutritional shortage in milk with upregulation of 32% of proteins with function in metabolism and 17% in fatty acid metabolism/synthesis. Additionally, MAP upregulated clusters of 19% proteins with roles in stress responses and immune evasion, 19% in transcription/translation, and 13% in bacterial cell wall synthesis. Dut, MmpL4_1, and RecA were only detected in MAP incubated in milk, pointing to very important roles of these proteins for MAP coping with a stressful environment. Dut is essential and plays an exclusive role for growth, MmpL4_1 for virulence through secretion of specific lipids, and RecA for SOS response of mycobacteria. Further, 35 candidates with stable expression in all conditions were detected, which could serve as targets for detection. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD027444.
Towards Biohybrid Lung: Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Derived Endothelial Cells as Clinically Relevant Cell Source for Biologization
Authors: Pflaum Michael , Dahlmann Julia , Engels Lena , Naghilouy-Hidaji Hossein , Adam Denise , Zöllner Janina , Otto Annette , Schmeckebier Sabrina , Martin Ulrich , Haverich Axel , Olmer Ruth , Wiegmann Bettina
Published: August 2021

In order to provide an alternative treatment option to lung transplantation for patients with end-stage lung disease, we aim for the development of an implantable biohybrid lung (BHL), based on hollow fiber membrane (HFM) technology used in extracorporeal membrane oxygenators. Complete hemocompatibility of all blood contacting surfaces is crucial for long-lasting BHL durability and can be achieved by their endothelialization. Autologous endothelial cells (ECs) would be the ideal cell source, but their limited proliferation potential excludes them for this purpose. As induced pluripotent stem cell-derived ECs enable the generation of a large number of ECs, we assessed and compared their capacity to form a viable and confluent monolayer on HFM, while indicating physiologic EC-specific anti-thrombogenic and anti-inflammatory properties. ECs were generated from three different human iPSC lines, and seeded onto fibronectin-coated poly-4-methyl-1-pentene (PMP) HFM. Following phenotypical characterization, ECs were analyzed for their thrombogenic and inflammatory behavior with or without TNFα induction, using FACS and qRT-PCR. Complementary, leukocyte- and platelet adhesion assays were carried out. The capacity of the iPSC-ECs to reendothelialize cell-free monolayer areas was assessed in a scratch assay. ECs sourced from umbilical cord blood (hCBECs) were used as control. iPSC-derived ECs formed confluent monolayers on the HFM and showed the typical EC-phenotype by expression of VE-cadherin and collagen-IV. A low protein and gene expression level of E-selectin and tissue factor was detected for all iPSC-ECs and the hCBECs, while a strong upregulation of these markers was noted upon stimulation with TNFα. This was in line with the physiological and strong induction of leukocyte adhesion detected after treatment with TNFα, iPSC-EC and hCBEC monolayers were capable of reducing thrombocyte adhesion and repopulating scratched areas. iPSCs offer the possibility to provide patient-specific ECs in abundant numbers needed to cover all blood contacting surfaces of the BHL with a viable, non-thrombogenic and non-inflammatory monolayer. iPSC-EC clones can differ in terms of their reendothelialization rate, and pro-inflammatory response. However, a less profound inflammatory response may even be advantageous for BHL application. With the proven ability of the seeded iPSC-ECs to reduce thrombocyte adhesion, we expect that thrombotic events that could lead to BHL occlusion can be avoided, and thus, justifies further studies on enabling BHL long-term application.
Quality of Fish-Oil-Based Dietary Supplements Available on the Italian Market: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Nevigato Teresina , Masci Maurizio , Caproni Roberto
Published: August 2021

The global market of food supplements is growing rapidly with a large turnover. Fish oil supplements represent a significant part of this turnover as they are believed to have important health benefits. Conversely, there are few papers in the literature about the quality control of fish oil capsules. As prior studies illustrate, a perfect agreement with the label is rarely found, and in some isolated cases, large amounts of soybean oil are also detected, indicating a true adulteration rather than a non-compliance with the label. None of the available studies refer to the Italian market, which ranks first in Europe in the consumption of food supplements. In this present communication, a quality control of fish-oil-based supplements from the Italian market was carried out for the first time. With minor deviations, all results showed substantial agreement with the label. However, the most important conclusion from this research is that compliance with the label is not enough to judge a product of good quality. The analysis of the overall fatty acid composition showed that some supplements have a high level of saturated fatty acids, and therefore they did not undergo a proper purification process. This may represent a safety issue since the purification process also allows the removal of toxic contaminants.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of New N-Acyl-α-amino Ketones and 1,3-Oxazoles Derivatives
Authors: Apostol Theodora-Venera , Marutescu Luminita Gabriela , Draghici Constantin , Socea Laura-Ileana , Olaru Octavian Tudorel , Nitulescu George Mihai , Pahontu Elena Mihaela , Saramet Gabriel , Enache-Preoteasa Cristian , Barbuceanu Stefania-Felicia
Published: August 2021

In order to develop novel bioactive substances with potent activities, some new valine-derived compounds incorporating a 4-(phenylsulfonyl)phenyl fragment, namely, acyclic precursors from N-acyl-α-amino acids and N-acyl-α-amino ketones classes, and heterocycles from the large family of 1,3-oxazole-based compounds, were synthesized. The structures of the new compounds were established using elemental analysis and spectral (UV-Vis, FT-IR, MS, NMR) data, and their purity was checked by reversed-phase HPLC. The newly synthesized compounds were evaluated for their antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities, for toxicity on D. magna, and by in silico studies regarding their potential mechanism of action and toxicity. The 2-aza-3-isopropyl-1-[4-(phenylsulfonyl)phenyl]-1,4-butanedione 4b bearing a p-tolyl group in 4-position exhibited the best antibacterial activity against the planktonic growth of both Gram-positive and Gram-negative strains, while the N-acyl-α-amino acid 2 and 1,3-oxazol-5(4H)-one 3 inhibited the Enterococcus faecium biofilms. Despite not all newly synthesized compounds showing significant biological activity, the general scaffold allows several future optimizations for obtaining better novel antimicrobial agents by the introduction of various substituents on the phenyl moiety at position 5 of the 1,3-oxazole nucleus.
Silver Nanoparticles Using Eucalyptus or Willow Extracts (AgNPs) as Contact Lens Hydrogel Components to Reduce the Risk of Microbial Infection
Authors: Rossos Andreas K. , Banti Christina N. , Raptis Panagiotis K. , Papachristodoulou Christina , Sainis Ioannis , Zoumpoulakis Panagiotis , Mavromoustakos Thomas , Hadjikakou Sotiris K.
Published: August 2021

Eucalyptus leaves (ELE) and willow bark (WBE) extracts were utilized towards the formation of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs(ELE), AgNPs(WBE)). AgNPs(ELE) and AgNPs(WBE) were dispersed in polymer hydrogels to create pHEMA@AgNPs(ELE)_2 and pHEMA@AgNPs(WBE)_2 using hydroxyethyl-methacrylate (HEMA). The materials were characterized in a solid state by X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffraction analysis (XRPD), thermogravimetric differential thermal analysis (TG-DTA), differential scanning calorimetry (DTG/DSC) and attenuated total reflection spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) and ultraviolet visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy in solution. The antimicrobial potential of the materials was investigated against the Gram-negative bacterial strain Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) and the Gram-positive bacterial strain of the genus Staphylococcus epidermidis (S. epidermidis) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), which are involved in microbial keratitis. The percentage of bacterial viability of P. aeruginosa and S. epidermidis upon their incubation over the pHEMA@AgNPs(ELE)_2 discs is interestingly low (28.3 and 6.8% respectively), while the inhibition zones (IZ) formed are 12.3 ± 1.7 and 13.2 ± 1.2 mm, respectively. No in vitro toxicity of this material towards human corneal epithelial cells (HCEC) was detected. Despite its low performance against S. aureus, pHEMA@AgNPs(ELE)_2 could be an efficient candidate towards the development of contact lenses that reduces microbial infection risk.
Selective Binding and Redox-Activity on Parallel G-Quadruplexes by Pegylated Naphthalene Diimide-Copper Complexes
Authors: Pirota Valentina , Lunghi Enrico , Benassi Alessandra , Crespan Emmanuele , Freccero Mauro , Doria Filippo
Published: August 2021

G-quadruplexes (G4s) are higher-order supramolecular structures, biologically important in the regulation of many key processes. Among all, the recent discoveries relating to RNA-G4s, including their potential involvement as antiviral targets against COVID-19, have triggered the ever-increasing need to develop selective molecules able to interact with parallel G4s. Naphthalene diimides (NDIs) are widely exploited as G4 ligands, being able to induce and strongly stabilize these structures. Sometimes, a reversible NDI-G4 interaction is also associated with an irreversible one, due to the cleavage and/or modification of G4s by functional-NDIs. This is the case of NDI-Cu-DETA, a copper(II) complex able to cleave G4s in the closest proximity to the target binding site. Herein, we present two original Cu(II)-NDI complexes, inspired by NDI-Cu-DETA, differently functionalized with 2-(2-aminoethoxy)ethanol side-chains, to selectively drive redox-catalyzed activity towards parallel G4s. The selective interaction toward parallel G4 topology, controlled by the presence of 2-(2-aminoethoxy)ethanol side chains, was already firmly demonstrated by us using core-extended NDIs. In the present study, the presence of protonable moieties and the copper(II) cavity, increases the binding affinity and specificity of these two NDIs for a telomeric RNA-G4. Once defined the copper coordination relationship and binding constants by competition titrations, ability in G4 stabilization, and ROS-induced cleavage were analyzed. The propensity in the stabilization of parallel topology was highlighted for both of the new compounds HP2Cu and PE2Cu. The results obtained are particularly promising, paving the way for the development of new selective functional ligands for binding and destructuring parallel G4s.
Biofilm Medium Chemistry and Calcium Oxalate Morphogenesis
Authors: Rusakov Aleksei , Kuz’mina Maria , Frank-Kamenetskaya Olga
Published: August 2021

The present study is focused on the effect of biofilm medium chemistry on oxalate crystallization and contributes to the study of the patterns of microbial biomineralization and the development of nature-like technologies, using the metabolism of microscopic fungi. Calcium oxalates (weddellite and whewellite in different ratios) were synthesized by chemical precipitation in a weakly acidic environment (pH = 4–6), as is typical for the stationary phase of micromycetes growth, with a ratio of Ca2+/C2O42− = 4.0–5.5, at room temperature. Additives, which are common for biofilms on the surface of stone in an urban environment (citric, malic, succinic and fumaric acids; and K+, Mg2+, Fe3+, Sr2+, SO42+, PO43+ and CO32+ ions), were added to the solutions. The resulting precipitates were studied via X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDXS). It was revealed that organic acids, excreted by micromicetes, and some environmental ions, as well as their combinations, significantly affect the weddellite/whewellite ratio and the morphology of their phases (including the appearance of tetragonal prism faces of weddellite). The strongest unique effect leading to intensive crystallization of weddellite was only caused by the presence of citric acid additive in the medium. Minor changes in the composition of the additive components can lead to significant changes in the weddellite/whewellite ratio. The effect of the combination of additives on this ratio does not obey the law of additivity. The content of weddellite in the systems containing a representative set of both organic acids and environmental ions is ~20 wt%, which is in good agreement with natural systems.