bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Infodemic and Fake News Turning Shift for Media: Distrust among University Students
Authors: Pérez-Escoda Ana
Published: November 2022

In many parts of the world, long before social media, trust in media and journalism was fragile and shaky. Today, however, with an unprecedented information abundance, the situation has worsened because, in the high-speed information free-for-all of social media platforms and the internet, anyone can consume and produce. As a result, citizens find it difficult to discern what is real and what is fake. In this context, the aim of the study is to explore how information and fake news consumption affects the perception of media in terms of trust. The methodology applied for this purpose was a mixed method using both quantitative and qualitative data in order to provide not only descriptive data but more thorough results. For the quantitative analysis, a sample of 849 university students participated: from these, a smaller sample of 100 participated in the qualitative phase. Conclusions indicate that the distribution of fake news is worryingly associated with the media and, consequently, a concerning distrust of media is shown among participants who express feeling insecure, vulnerable, confused, and distrusting of media.
The Trends and Challenges of Virtual Technology Usage in Western Balkan Educational Institutions
Authors: Kamińska Dorota , Zwoliński Grzegorz , Maloku Hena , Ibrani Mimoza , Guna Jože , Pogačnik Matevž , Haamer Rain Eric , Anbarjafari Gholamreza , Abazi-Bexheti Lejla , Bozhiqi Kristel , Halili Albana
Published: November 2022

Higher educational institutions in Western Balkan countries strive for continuous development of their teaching and learning processes. One of the priorities is employing state-of-the-art technology to facilitate experience-based learning, and virtual and augmented reality are two of the most effective solutions to providing the opportunity to practice the acquired theoretical knowledge. This report presents (apart from the theoretical introduction to the issue) an overall picture of the knowledge of AR and VR technology in education in Western Balkan universities. It is based on a semi-structured online questionnaire whose recipients were academic staff and students from universities in Albania, Kosovo, and North Macedonia. The questionnaire differed for each target group; the version for academics comprised 11 questions for 710 respondents, and the version for students comprised 10 questions for 2217 respondents. This paper presents and discusses the results for each question with the aim to illustrate Western Balkan countries’ current state of VR and AR application in education.
Application of Rh/TiO2 Nanotube Array in Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production from Formic Acid Solution
Authors: Suhag Mahmudul Hassan , Tateishi Ikki , Furukawa Mai , Katsumata Hideyuki , Khatun Aklima , Kaneco Satoshi
Published: November 2022

Titanium dioxide nanotubes (TNTs) were fabricated via electrochemical anodization process. Photocatalytic hydrogen generation from formic acid solution was investigated using TNTs with simultaneous Rh deposition. The effects of calcination temperature and time for TNTs on hydrogen generation were studied. The maximum hydrogen generation (54 µmol) was observed when using TNTs with a 500 °C calcination temperature and 10 h calcination time under 5 h of black light (352 nm) irradiation. The reusability tests indicated that the TNTs with photodeposited Rh metal (Rh/TNT) had excellent stability up to the fifth cycle for hydrogen generation from formic acid solution. The TNTs were characterized before and after photodeposition of Rh metal via X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), photoluminescence (PL), and diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS). XRD revealed the presence of optimal anatase–rutile phase ratios in TNTs at 500 °C and 300 °C calcination temperatures. XRD and SEM revealed the deposition of Rh metal on the TNT surface at 300 °C and 500 °C calcination temperatures. It was observed that the light absorption ability of TNTs calcined at 500 °C was greater than that of TNTs calcined at 300 °C. The reaction mechanisms for the formation of TNTs and photocatalytic hydrogen production from formic acid solutions by TNTs with simultaneous Rh deposition were also proposed.
Controlling Surface Wettability and Plasmonic Resonance of Au/ZnO Heterostructured Films
Authors: Chen Sheng-Chiang , Wei Da-Hua
Published: November 2022

This work investigated the (0002) textured ZnO films without and with the addition of an Au continuous top layer and its effects on their surface wettability and plasmonic resonance characteristics. The ZnO films were directly fabricated onto glass substrates at the synthesized temperature of 300 °C via a plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) system, and the as-synthesized ZnO film exhibited an average optical transmittance value of 85%. The ultraviolet (UV) light irradiation can be applied to enhance the hydrophilicity, changing it from a hydrophobic status to hydrophilic status due to the existing and adjustable characteristics of the photocatalytic activity. On the other hand, the surface wetting/contact angle (CA) value of the ZnO film with a controllable surface wettability switched from 94° (hydrophobicity) to 44° (hydrophilicity), after it was exposed to UV light irradiation for 5 min, and stably reversed back to hydrophobicity (92°) via a post-annealed treatment using rapid thermal annealing (RTA) at 350 °C for 5 min in air. A fast, simple, and reversible method for switching between hydrophilic and hydrophobic status is claimed in this present work. The improved surface plasmonic resonance is owning to the coupled electron and photon oscillations that can be obtained and produced at the interface between the flat Au layer and ZnO (metal/metallic oxide) heterostructured films for future applications of various wide-bandgap compound semiconductors.
Structural Engineering of Photocatalytic ZnO-SnO2-Fe2O3 Composites
Authors: Khomutinnikova Larissa L. , Evstropiev Sergey K. , Danilovich Dmitry P. , Meshkovskii Igor K. , Bulyga Dmitry V.
Published: November 2022

The ZnO-SnO2-Fe2O3 composites containing flower-like particles were prepared by the non-isothermal polymer-salt method. Thermochemical processes proceeding during composites synthesis was studied by DTA/TG method. The structure and morphology of obtained composites were studied by the SEM and XRD analysis. Prepared composites containing small amounts of SnO2 and Fe2O3 demonstrate the high adsorption and photodecomposition of the organic dye Rhodamine 6G in its solutions. Obtained materials show the ability of the photogeneration of the chemically active singlet oxygen under the visible irradiation. The synergistic effect of the flower structure and Fe2O3 doping can significantly improve the photocatalytic and adsorption activities.
The Effect of Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes on the Heat-Release Properties of Elastic Nanocomposites
Authors: Shchegolkov Alexander V. , Nachtane Mourad , Stanishevskiy Yaroslav M. , Dodina Ekaterina P. , Rejepov Dovlet T. , Vetcher Alexandre A.
Published: November 2022

Of great importance in materials science is the design of effective functional materials that can be used in various technological fields. Nanomodified materials, which have fundamentally new properties and provide previously unrealized properties, have acquired particular importance. When creating heating elements and materials for deformation measurement, it is necessary to understand the patterns of heat release under conditions of mechanical deformation of the material, as this expands the potential applications of such materials. A study of elastomers modified with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) has been carried at the MWCNTs concentration of 1–8 wt.%. The modes of heat release of nanomodified elastomers at a voltage of 50 V at different levels of tension are reported. The increment of the MWCNTs concentration to 7 wt.% leads to an increment in the power of heat emissions. It is worth noting the possibility of using the obtained elastomer samples with MNT as sensitive elements of strain sensors, which will allow obtaining information about physical and chemical parameters following the principles of measuring the change in electrical resistance that occurs during stretching and torsion. The changes in conductivity and heat emission under different conditions have been studied in parallel with Raman mapping and infrared thermography. The reported studies allow to make the next step to develop flexible functional materials for the field of electric heating and deformation measurement based on elastic matrices and nanoscale conductive fillers.
A Multimodal Ensemble Driven by Multiobjective Optimisation to Predict Overall Survival in Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Caruso Camillo Maria , Guarrasi Valerio , Cordelli Ermanno , Sicilia Rosa , Gentile Silvia , Messina Laura , Fiore Michele , Piccolo Claudia , Beomonte Zobel Bruno , Iannello Giulio , Ramella Sara , Soda Paolo
Published: November 2022

Lung cancer accounts for more deaths worldwide than any other cancer disease. In order to provide patients with the most effective treatment for these aggressive tumours, multimodal learning is emerging as a new and promising field of research that aims to extract complementary information from the data of different modalities for prognostic and predictive purposes. This knowledge could be used to optimise current treatments and maximise their effectiveness. To predict overall survival, in this work, we investigate the use of multimodal learning on the CLARO dataset, which includes CT images and clinical data collected from a cohort of non-small-cell lung cancer patients. Our method allows the identification of the optimal set of classifiers to be included in the ensemble in a late fusion approach. Specifically, after training unimodal models on each modality, it selects the best ensemble by solving a multiobjective optimisation problem that maximises both the recognition performance and the diversity of the predictions. In the ensemble, the labels of each sample are assigned using the majority voting rule. As further validation, we show that the proposed ensemble outperforms the models learning a single modality, obtaining state-of-the-art results on the task at hand.
Irregular Shape Effect of Brass and Copper Filler on the Properties of Metal Epoxy Composite (MEC) for Rapid Tooling Application
Authors: Hussin Radhwan , Sharif Safian , Abd Rahim Shayfull Zamree , Rennie Allan , Suhaimi Mohd Azlan , Abdellah Abdellah El-hadj , Shuaib Norshah Afizi , Mohd Khushairi Mohd Tanwyn , Titu Aurel Mihail
Published: November 2022

Due to their low shrinkage and easy moldability, metal epoxy composites (MEC) are recognized as an alternative material that can be applied as hybrid mold inserts manufactured with rapid tooling (RT) technologies. Although many studies have been conducted on MEC or reinforced composite, research on the material properties, especially on thermal conductivity and compressive strength, that contribute to the overall mold insert performance and molded part quality are still lacking. The purpose of this research is to investigate the effect of the cooling efficiency using MEC materials. Thus, this research aims to appraise a new formulation of MEC materials as mold inserts by further improving the mold insert performance. The effects of the thermal, physical, and mechanical properties of MEC mold inserts were examined using particles of brass (EB), copper (EC), and a combination of brass + copper (EBC) in irregular shapes. These particles were weighed at percentages ranging from 10% to 60% when mixed with epoxy resin to produce specimens according to related ASTM standards. A microstructure analysis was made using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) to investigate brass and copper particle distribution. When filler composition was increased from 10% to 60%, the values of density (g/cm3), hardness (Hv), and thermal conductivity (W/mK) showed a linear upward trend, with the highest value occurring at the highest filler composition percentage. The addition of filler composition increased the compressive strength, with the highest average compressive strength value occurring between 20% and 30% filler composition. Compressive strength indicated a nonlinear uptrend and decreased with increasing composition by more than 30%. The maximum value of compressive strength for EB, EC, and EBC was within the range of 90–104 MPa, with EB having the highest value (104 MPa). The ANSYS simulation software was used to conduct a transient thermal analysis in order to evaluate the cooling performance of the mold inserts. EC outperformed the EB and EBC in terms of cooling efficiency based on the results of thermal transient analysis at high compressive strength and high thermal conductivity conditions.
Taking into Account the Eddy Density on Analysis of Underwater Glider Motion
Authors: Li Shufeng , Cao Xiu , Ma Wei , Liang Yan , Xue Dongyang
Published: November 2022

Mesoscale eddies play an important role in regulating the global ocean ecosystem and climate variability. However, few studies have been found to focus on the survey of the underwater gliders (UGs) motion performance inside mesoscale eddies. The dynamic model of an UG considering the eddy density is established to predict its motion performance inside an eddy. Ignoring the effect of vertical velocity inside the eddy on the motion of UG, the simulation results and experimental data are compared to verify the derived model. From the analysis of the motion performance, the vertical velocity is larger at 400∼940 m depth than that at a depth of 0∼400 m in the ascent. Considering the vertical structures of parameters within eddies, the climbing profiles are chosen as the available samples to capture an eddy better. The larger error caused by the eddy density mainly occurs near the depth of the thermocline. Moreover, there is a stronger influence of eddy density on the motion performance of the UG in the ascent than that in the descent. The results show the differences in the effect of the mesoscale eddy density on the motion performance of “Petrel II” UG in the descent and ascent, and they provide a sampling suggestion for the application of UGs in the mesoscale eddy observation.
Application of Nanotechnology in COVID-19 Infection: Findings and Limitations
Authors: Shehu Ibrahim A. , Musa Muhammad K. , Datta Aparna , Verma Amita
Published: November 2022

There is an urgent need to address the global mortality of the COVID-19 pandemic, as it reached 6.3 million as of July 2022. As such, the experts recommended the mass diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection at an early stage using nanotechnology-based sensitive diagnostic approaches. The development of nanobiosensors for Point-of-Care (POC) sampling of COVID-19 could ensure mass detection without the need for sophisticated laboratories or expert personnel. The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) techniques for POC detection was also proposed. In addition, the utilization of various antiviral nanomaterials such as Silver Nanoparticles (AgNPs) for the development of masks for personal protection mitigates viral transmission. Nowadays, nano-assisted vaccines have been approved for emergency use, but their safety and effectiveness in the mutant strain of the SARS-CoV-2 virus remain challenging. Methodology: Updated literature was sourced from various research indexing databases such as PubMed, SCOPUS, Science Direct, Research Gate and Google Scholars. Result: We presented the concept of novel nanotechnology researched discovery, including nano-devices, electrochemical biosensing, nano-assisted vaccine, and nanomedicines, for use in recent times, which could be a formidable step for future management of COVID-19.
Antiproliferative Fatty Acids Isolated from the Polypore Fungus Onnia tomentosa
Authors: Lee Hooi Xian , Li Wai Ming , Khatra Jatinder , Xia Zhicheng , Sannikov Oleg , Ling Yun , Zhu Haoxuan , Lee Chow H.
Published: November 2022

Onnia tomentosa is a widespread root rot pathogen frequently found in coniferous forests in North America. In this study, the potential medicinal properties of this wild polypore mushroom collected from north–central British Columbia, Canada, were investigated. The ethanol extract from O. tomentosa was found to exhibit strong antiproliferative activity. Liquid–liquid extraction and bioactivity-guided fractionation, together with HPLC-MS/MS and 1D/2D NMR analyses of the ethanol extract of O. tomentosa, led to the identification of eight known linoleic oxygenated fatty acids (1.1–1.4 and 2–5), together with linoleic (6) and oleic acids (7). The autoxidation of linoleic acid upon isolation from a natural source and compound 5 as an autoxidation product of linoleic acid are reported here for the first time. GC-FID analysis of O. tomentosa, Fomitopsis officinalis, Echinodontium tinctorium, and Albatrellus flettii revealed linoleic, oleic, palmitic, and stearic acids as the major fatty acids. This study further showed that fatty acids were the major antiproliferative constituents in the ethanol extract from O. tomentosa. Linoleic acid and oleic acid had IC50 values of 50.3 and 90.4 µM against human cervical cancer cells (HeLa), respectively. The results from this study have implications regarding the future exploration of O. tomentosa as a possible edible and/or medicinal mushroom. It is also recommended that necessary caution be taken when isolating unstable fatty acids from natural sources and in interpreting the results.
Immunosenescence and Aging: Neuroinflammation Is a Prominent Feature of Alzheimer’s Disease and Is a Likely Contributor to Neurodegenerative Disease Pathogenesis
Authors: Bowirrat Abdalla
Published: November 2022

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a chronic multifactorial and complex neuro-degenerative disorder characterized by memory impairment and the loss of cognitive ability, which is a problem affecting the elderly. The pathological intracellular accumulation of abnormally phosphorylated Tau proteins, forming neurofibrillary tangles, and extracellular amyloid-beta (Aβ) deposition, forming senile plaques, as well as neural disconnection, neural death and synaptic dysfunction in the brain, are hallmark pathologies that characterize AD. The prevalence of the disease continues to increase globally due to the increase in longevity, quality of life, and medical treatment for chronic diseases that decreases the mortality and enhance the survival of elderly. Medical awareness and the accurate diagnosis of the disease also contribute to the high prevalence observed globally. Unfortunately, no definitive treatment exists that can be used to modify the course of AD, and no available treatment is capable of mitigating the cognitive decline or reversing the pathology of the disease as of yet. A plethora of hypotheses, ranging from the cholinergic theory and dominant Aβ cascade hypothesis to the abnormally excessive phosphorylated Tau protein hypothesis, have been reported. Various explanations for the pathogenesis of AD, such as the abnormal excitation of the glutamate system and mitochondrial dysfunction, have also been suggested. Despite the continuous efforts to deliver significant benefits and an effective treatment for this distressing, globally attested aging illness, multipronged approaches and strategies for ameliorating the disease course based on knowledge of the underpinnings of the pathogenesis of AD are urgently needed. Immunosenescence is an immune deficit process that appears with age (inflammaging process) and encompasses the remodeling of the lymphoid organs, leading to alterations in the immune function and neuroinflammation during advanced aging, which is closely linked to the outgrowth of infections, autoimmune diseases, and malignant cancers. It is well known that long-standing inflammation negatively influences the brain over the course of a lifetime due to the senescence of the immune system. Herein, we aim to trace the role of the immune system in the pathogenesis of AD. Thus, we explore alternative avenues, such as neuroimmune involvement in the pathogenesis of AD. We determine the initial triggers of neuroinflammation, which is an early episode in the pre-symptomatic stages of AD and contributes to the advancement of the disease, and the underlying key mechanisms of brain damage that might aid in the development of therapeutic strategies that can be used to combat this devastating disease. In addition, we aim to outline the ways in which different aspects of the immune system, both in the brain and peripherally, behave and thus to contribute to AD.
Application of the Homologous Modeling Technique for Precision Medicine in the Field of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Authors: Nakano Hiroyuki , Suzuki Kei , Inoue Kazuya , Nakajima Yoichiro , Mishima Katsuaki , Ueno Takaaki , Demura Noboru
Published: November 2022

In the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery, establishment of a new method for predicting morphology is desirable. Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to establish a new method for predicting the original shape of a mandibular defect site using the homologous modeling technique. This study used data from 44 patients who underwent computed tomography in the Department of Oral Surgery at Osaka Medical College. Two types of homologous models were constructed: total mandible (TM) and half mandible (HM). Principal component analysis (PCA) was performed using point cloud data of the homologous model M and homologous model HM, and a multiple regression equation was created using the PC value of TM as the object variable and PC value of HM as the explanatory variable. The predicted PC (M) was created from PC (HM) using a regression formula, back-calculated from point cloud data from PC (M), to create the predicted mandible model. Finally, the original image (TC-M) and estimated mandible were superposed and examined. The mean absolute error between the predicted mandible and actual mandible was 1.04 ± 1.35 mm. We believe that this method will be applicable in actual clinical practice.
A Scientometric Study on Management Literature in Southeast Asia
Authors: Firmansyah Egi Arvian , Wahid Hairunnizam , Gunardi Ardi , Hudaefi Fahmi Ali
Published: November 2022

This study employs bibliometric analysis, i.e., a kind of data analytics for evaluating scholarly publications, to evaluate journal publishing management issues in the Southeast Asian context. A total of 500 Scopus-indexed documents from Jurnal Pengurusan were sampled. The finding reveals that Malaysia is the most prominent country in terms of author affiliation, country performance, and keyword appearance. The collaboration among the authors of the sampled journal is primarily from the Asian continent, with a few from Australia. The topics of this journal have incrementally evolved from conventional to contemporary issues. This journal has made substantial contributions to the subject of Islamic finance and business, which is congruent with Malaysia’s role as a global center of Islamic finance. In addition, some contemporary subjects, such as blockchain, metaverse, and fintech, have emerged, demonstrating the relevance of this journal coverage to the contemporary management issues occurring in the financial markets worldwide. This study provides a critical novelty in the assessment of scholarly publications on management issues in the Southeast Asian context with Jurnal Pengurusan as the case.
Evaluating Serum RBP4 as an Auxiliary Biomarker for CKDu Diagnosis
Authors: Swa Hannah L. F. , Fernando Buddhi N. T. , Premarathna Shakila , Alli-Shaik Asfa , Badurdeen Zeid , Gunarathna Jayantha , Nanayakkara Nishantha
Published: November 2022

Background: A chronic interstitial disease, chronic kidney disease of uncertain etiology (CKDu), has emerged as a notable contributor to the CKD burden in rural Sri Lanka. Most therapeutic and diagnostic approaches to CKD focus on glomerular diseases, and thus are not fully applicable to CKDu. Serum proteins, specifically those with the profile of markers representing different facets of a disease, are beneficial for a comprehensive evaluation of diseases, and hence in CKD. Our aim was to identify the role of serum-retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4), a marker of the proximal tubule, in the diagnosis of CKDu. Methods: Definite CKDu cases were recruited from the renal clinic in Girandurukotte and Wilgamuwa (endemic regions). Healthy controls were recruited from Mandaramnuwara (nonendemic area). The levels of RBP4 and creatinine in serum were measured. An immunoassay (ELISA) was performed on the serum samples. The stages of CKD/ CKDu were classified according to eGFR. Results: Serum RBP4 was significantly increased in CKDu patients compared to CKD patients and healthy controls. The results show that the ratio of normalized serum RBP4 to serum creatine (S.cr) acts as a better competitive marker for CKDu (AUC 0.762, sensitivity 0.733) than CKD (AUC 0.584, sensitivity 0.733) when compared against healthy controls. Furthermore, the RBP4:S.cr ratio showed higher discriminating power (AUC 0.743) between CKDu and CKD, suggesting that the RBP4: S.cr ratio has potential as a serum marker to differentiate CKDu from CKDu. Conclusion: The RBP4: S.cr ratio was identified as a plausible indicator for differentiating CKDu from CKD with >70% sensitivity and specificity. Therefore, it could be used in the evaluation of the tubular interstitial involvement of CKD.
Preclinical Experience of the Mayo Spheroid Reservoir Bioartificial Liver (SRBAL) in Management of Acute Liver Failure
Authors: Felgendreff Philipp , Tharwat Mohammad , Hosseiniasl Seyed M. , Amiot Bruce P. , Minshew Anna , Rmilah Anan A. Abu , Sun Xiaoye , Duffy Dustin , Kremers Walter K. , Nyberg Scott L.
Published: November 2022

The Spheroid Reservoir Bioartificial Liver (SRBAL) is an innovative treatment option for acute liver failure (ALF). This extracorporeal support device, which provides detoxification and other liver functions using high-density culture of porcine hepatocyte spheroids, has been reported in three randomized large animal studies. A meta-analysis of these three preclinical studies was performed to establish efficacy of SRBAL treatment in terms of survival benefit and neuroprotective effect. The studies included two hepatotoxic drug models of ALF (D-galactosamine, α-amanitin/lipopolysaccharide) or a liver resection model (85% hepatectomy) in pigs or monkeys. The SRBAL treatment was started in three different settings starting at 12 h, 24 h or 48 h after induction of ALF; comparisons were made with two similar control groups in each model. SRBAL therapy was associated with significant survival and neuroprotective benefits in all three animal models of ALF. The benefits of therapy were dose dependent with the most effective configuration of SRBAL being continuous treatment of 24 h duration and dose of 200 g of porcine hepatic spheroids. Future clinical testing of SRBAL in patients with ALF appears warranted.
Recycled Fine Aggregates from Mortar Debris and Red Clay Brick to Fabricate Masonry Mortars: Mechanical Analysis
Authors: Mora-Ortiz René Sebastián , Díaz Sergio Alberto , Del Angel-Meraz Ebelia , Magaña-Hernández Francisco
Published: November 2022

In this research, the mechanical behavior of masonry mortars made with partial substitution of sand by recycled fine aggregates (RFAs) of mortar (MT) and recycled clay brick (RCB) was compared. Mortar specimens were built in two groups (MT and RCB) considering different replacement proportions by dry weight. To reduce the water absorption of RFAs during mortar making, the prewetting method was utilized. All the mixtures were assembled with a volumetric cement-to-aggregate ratio of 1:4 and a consistency of 175 ± 5 mm. The properties in the fresh and hardening state of mortars were analyzed separately. The experimental results showed that the properties of mortars in a fresh state (bulk density and air content) were affected if RFA was added to the mixture; however, mortars assembled with up to 40% and 50% of MT and RCB, respectively, accomplished a compressive strength value of reference for new mixtures. Both mortar groups showed good results in adhesive strength values, with the RCB mortars standing up as they achieved greater adherence than the control mortar with substitution percentages of up to 30%. Therefore, the reutilization of both RFAs is feasible, notably in rendering and bonding functions.
Correlation Analysis of Linear Viscoelastic (LVE) Properties, Damage Resistance and Microstructure of Unmodified Asphalt Binders with the Same Penetration Grade
Authors: Wang Chao , Song Lihao , Wang Zhen , Chen Yifang , Zhou Bochao
Published: November 2022

The penetration grade system is still widely adopted for selecting asphalt binder with desired paving performance. However, the initial material compositions of asphalt binder with the same penetration level are still different, and vary with the crude oil source and essentially result in different rheological performance. This study aimed to assess the linear viscoelastic (LVE) properties, and high- and intermediate-temperature and microscale characteristics of seven unmodified asphalt binders from different sources and countries with the same penetration level of 70. The LVE parameters were firstly evaluated followed by comparisons to various damage-based indexes. The microstructure of asphalt binders was further investigated followed by correlations between morphology and performance parameters. Experimental results indicate the |G*|/sin δ is well related to the MSCR-based non-recoverable creep compliance; furthermore, the R and |G*|·sin δ can generally represent the LAS-based failure strain and fatigue life, respectively. The viscoelastic nature of tested binders was clearly distinguished and related to rheological performance by atomic force microscopy (AFM). The roughness parameters and the phases’ content derived from AFM images showed significant correlations with LVE characteristics and fatigue resistance nature, respectively. This research provides theoretical foundations for further investigating the rheological performance and microstructure characteristics, and their correlations with asphalt binders.
Effects of Autoclave Sterilization and Multiple Use on Implant Scanbody Deformation In Vitro
Authors: Kato Takamitsu , Yasunami Noriyuki , Furuhashi Akihiro , Sanda Koma , Ayukawa Yasunori
Published: November 2022

In the intraoral scanner (IOS) impression technique for dental implants, a scanbody (SB) is connected to the implant and scanned. Poly(ether-ether-ketone) (PEEK) is a widely used material for SBs and it is recommended for single use. However, from the perspective of the Sustainable Development Goals, it is desirable to use these products multiple times. As SBs are used in patients’ mouths, proper sterilization is necessary for multiple uses. In the present study, the effect of autoclave treatment and connection/disconnection on SB deformation was investigated. The SB was connected to the implant and stereolithography (STL) data were obtained. Then, the SB was disconnected and underwent autoclave treatment, or was connected and disconnected multiple times, or underwent a combination of both processes. The results showed that there were significant differences in the distance and angle when comparing SBs before and after the autoclave treatment, but repeated connections with or without autoclave treatment had no significant impact on the measured values. The surface texture, observed with scanning electron microscopy, showed that a groove was observed on the surface of the SB, but the groove did not show major changes after 10 connection/autoclave processes. These results indicate that autoclave sterilization has some impact on SB deformation but connection/disconnection itself may not have a huge impact on SB deformation.
Impacts of Stefan Blowing on Hybrid Nanofluid Flow over a Stretching Cylinder with Thermal Radiation and Dufour and Soret Effect
Authors: Narayanaswamy Manoj Kumar , Kandasamy Jagan , Sivanandam Sivasankaran
Published: November 2022

The focal interest in this article is to investigate the Stefan blowing and Dufour and Soret effects on hybrid nanofluid (HNF) flow towards a stretching cylinder with thermal radiation. The governing equations are converted into ODE by using suitable transformations. The boundary value problem solver (bvp4c), which is a package in the MATLAB, is used to solve the resulting ODE equations. Results show that rise in the Stefan blowing enhances velocity, temperature, and concentration profiles. Heat transfer rate increases by up to 10% in the presence of 4% nanoparticle/HNF but mass transfer rate diminishes. Additionally, skin friction coefficient, Nusselt number and Sherwood number are examined for many parameters entangled in this article. Additionally, results are deliberatively discussed in detail.
Alginate Ag for Composite Hollow Fiber Membrane: Formation and Ethylene/Ethane Gas Mixture Separation
Authors: Dmitrieva Evgenia , Grushevenko Evgenia , Razlataya Daria , Golubev George , Rokhmanka Tatiana , Anokhina Tatyana , Bazhenov Stepan
Published: November 2022

Membranes based on natural polymers, in particular alginate, are of great interest for various separation tasks. In particular, the possibility of introducing silver ions during the crosslinking of sodium alginate makes it possible to obtain a membrane with an active olefin transporter. In this work, the creation of a hollow fiber composite membrane with a selective layer of silver alginate is proposed for the first time. The approach to obtaining silver alginate is presented in detail, and its sorption and transport properties are also studied. It is worth noting the increased selectivity of the material for the ethylene/ethane mixture (more than 100). A technique for obtaining a hollow fiber membrane from silver alginate has been developed, and its separating characteristics have been determined. It is shown that in thin layers, silver alginate retains high values of selectivity for the ethylene/ethane gas pair. The obtained gas transport properties demonstrate the high potential of using membranes based on silver alginate for the separation of an olefin/paraffin mixture.
Improving the Wear Resistance of Ledeburitic Tool Steels by a Combination of Semi-Solid and Cryogenic Processing
Authors: Jirková Hana , Rubešová Kateřina , Jeníček Štěpán , Hradil David , Kučerová Ludmila
Published: November 2022

Ledeburitic tool steel X210Cr12 was processed by passing through a semi-solid state with subsequent forming on a hydraulic press, thus achieving a fine-grained martensitic matrix, uniformly dispersed fine precipitates, and removal of sharp-edged primary chromium carbides. The hardness value was over 700 HV10. The decomposition of austenite and the promotion of further carbide precipitation were carried out by cryogenic treatment or a combination of cryogenic treatment and tempering. Transmission electron microscopy showed that tempering after cryogenic treatment also led to the precipitation of needle-like M3C carbide, unlike the previous regimes. Furthermore, after the combined treatment, the microstructures showed a significant wear resistance, which was detected both by a waterjet abrasive blast test and a laboratory pin on disk test. Both tests showed a significant increase in wear resistance compared to the initial condition and special high wear resistance steels, such as Hardox 450 and Hardox 600.
In-Situ Characterization of Microstructural Changes in Alloy 718 during High-Temperature Low-Cycle Fatigue
Authors: Barton Sebastian , Weiss Maximilian K.-B. , Maier Hans Jürgen
Published: November 2022

Components made of nickel-based alloys are typically used for high-temperature applications because of their high corrosion resistance and very good creep and fatigue strength, even at temperatures around 1000 °C. Corrosive damage can significantly reduce the mechanical properties and the expected remaining service life of components. In the present study, a new method was introduced to continuously determine the change in microstructure occurring as a result of exposure to high temperature and cyclic mechanical loading. For this purpose, the conventional low-cycle fatigue test procedure was modified and a non-destructive, electromagnetic testing technique was integrated into a servohydraulic test rig to monitor the microstructural changes. The measured values correlate with the magnetic material properties of the specimen, allowing the microstructural changes in the specimen’s subsurface zone to be analyzed upon high-temperature fatigue. Specifically, it was possible to show how different loading parameters affect the maximum chromium depletion as well as the depth of chromium depletion, which influences the magnetic properties of the nickel-based material. It was also observed that specimen failure is preceded by a certain degree of microstructural change in the subsurface zone. Thus, the integration of the testing technology into a test rig opens up new possibilities for improved prediction of fatigue failure via the continuous recording of the microstructural changes.
Hybrid Manufacturing Processes Used in the Production of Complex Parts: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Sebbe Naiara P. V. , Fernandes Filipe , Sousa Vitor F. C. , Silva Francisco J. G.
Published: November 2022

Additive manufacturing is defined as a process based on the superposition of layers of materials in order to obtain 3D parts; however, the process does not allow achieve the adequate and necessary surface finishing. In addition, with the development of new materials with superior properties, some of them acquire high hardness and strength, consequently decreasing their ability to be machined. To overcome this shortcoming, a new technology assembling additive and subtractive processes, was developed and implemented. In this process, the additive methods are integrated into a single machine with subtractive processes, often called hybrid manufacturing. The additive manufacturing process is used to produce the part with high efficiency and flexibility, whilst machining is then triggered to give a good surface finishing and dimensional accuracy. With this, and without the need to transport the part from one machine to another, the manufacturing time of the part is reduced, as well as the production costs, since the waste of material is minimized, with the additive–subtractive integration. This work aimed to carry out an extensive literature review regarding additive manufacturing methods, such as binder blasting, directed energy deposition, material extrusion, material jetting, powder bed fusion, sheet laminating and vat polymerization, as well as machining processes, studying the additive-subtractive integration, in order to analyze recent developments in this area, the techniques used, and the results obtained. To perform this review, ScienceDirect, Web of Knowledge and Google Scholar were used as the main source of information because they are powerful search engines in science information. Specialized books have been also used, as well as several websites. The main keywords used in searching information were: “CNC machining”, “hybrid machining”, “hybrid manufacturing”, “additive manufacturing”, “high-speed machining” and “post-processing”. The conjunction of these keywords was crucial to filter the huge information currently available about additive manufacturing. The search was mainly focused on publications of the current century. The work intends to provide structured information on the research carried out about each one of the two considered processes (additive manufacturing and machining), and on how these developments can be taken into consideration in studies about hybrid machining, helping researchers to increase their knowledge in this field in a faster way. An outlook about the integration of these processes is also performed. Additionally, a SWOT analysis is also provided for additive manufacturing, machining and hybrid manufacturing processes, observing the aspects inherent to these technologies.
Lipid Metabolism and Homeostasis in Patients with Neuroendocrine Neoplasms: From Risk Factor to Potential Therapeutic Target
Authors: Modica Roberta , La Salvia Anna , Liccardi Alessia , Cannavale Giuseppe , Minotta Roberto , Benevento Elio , Faggiano Antongiulio , Colao Annamaria
Published: November 2022

Lipid metabolism is known to be involved in tumorigenesis and disease progression in many common cancer types, including colon, lung, breast and prostate, through modifications of lipid synthesis, storage and catabolism. Furthermore, lipid alterations may arise as a consequence of cancer treatment and may have a role in treatment resistance. Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) are a heterogeneous group of malignancies with increasing incidence, whose mechanisms of cancer initiation and progression are far from being fully understood. Alterations of lipid metabolism may be common across various cancer types, but data about NENs are scattered and heterogeneous. Herein, we provide an overview of the relevant literature on lipid metabolism and alterations in NENs. The available evidence both in basic and clinical research about lipid metabolism in NENs, including therapeutic effects on lipid homeostasis, are summarized. Additionally, the potential of targeting the lipid profile in NEN therapy is also discussed, and areas for further research are proposed.
Antiadhesive and Antibiofilm Effect of Malvidin-3-Glucoside and Malvidin-3-Glucoside/Neochlorogenic Acid Mixtures upon Staphylococcus
Authors: Silva Sara , Costa Eduardo M. , Machado Manuela , Morais Rui , Calhau Conceição , Pintado Manuela
Published: November 2022

Several reports on the biological activity of anthocyanin-rich extracts have been made. However, despite the association of said activity with their anthocyanin content, to the best of our knowledge, there are no previous works regarding the antimicrobial, antibiofilm and/or antiadhesive properties of anthocyanins alone. Therefore, the present work aimed to determine the effects of malvidin-3-glucoside, a major component of a previously reported extract, and the impact of its association with neochlorogenic acid (the only non-anthocyanin phenolic present in said extract), upon several Staphylococcus strains with varying resistance profiles. Results show that, while malvidin-3-glucoside and malvidin-3-glucoside/neochlorogenic acid mixtures were unable to considerably inhibit bacterial growth after 24 h, they still possessed an interesting antibiofilm activity (with reductions of biofilm entrapped cells up to 2.5 log cycles, metabolic inhibition rates up to 81% and up to 51% of biomass inhibition). When considering the bacteria’s capacity to adhere to plain polystyrene surfaces, the inhibition ranges were considerably lower (21% maximum value). However, when considering polystyrene surfaces coated with plasmatic proteins this value was considerably higher (45% for adhesion in the presence of extract and 39% for adhesion after the surface was exposed to extract). Overall, the studied anthocyanins showed potential as future alternatives to traditional antimicrobials in adhesion and biofilm formation prevention.
Effects of Source/Drain Electrodes on the Performance of InSnO Thin-Film Transistors
Authors: Li Qi , Han Dedong , Dong Junchen , Xu Dengqin , Li Yue , Wang Yi , Zhang Xing
Published: November 2022

Oxide thin-film transistors (TFTs) are of increasing interest in the field of advanced displays. In this work, we explore Al, InSnO (ITO), Ti, and Mo as source/drain electrodes of ITO TFTs. A comparison study is conducted on the electrical properties of ITO TFTs with the four categories of source/drain electrodes. Interestingly, the ITO TFT with an Al source/drain electrode exhibits better device performance, such as a field-effect mobility (μFE) of 26.45 cm2/Vs, a reasonable turn-on voltage (VON) of 2.7 V, and a steep subthreshold swing (SS) of 201.50 mV/decade. The contact properties of ITO TFTs are further analyzed, and the results show that the device with an Al electrode exhibits lower contact resistance than the other devices. However, the devices with the four electrode materials all reveal excellent stability under negative bias illumination stress (NBIS) with |ΔVTH| < 1 V. This work paves the way for the practical applications of ITO TFTs in next-generation displays.
State of the Art Offshore In Situ Monitoring of Microplastic
Authors: Calore Daniele , Fraticelli Nicola
Published: November 2022

Microplastics make up a significant amount of the overall quantity of plastic debris that is present in seawater. However, their detection and monitoring at sea is cost-inefficient and challenging; typically, it consists of water sampling with special manta nets, followed by long (i.e., weeks) laboratory analysis to obtain valid results. The analysis of the state-of-the-art technologies capable of monitoring/detecting microplastics in the sea (typically in coastal areas) presented in this paper shows that there are currently no specific tools to obtain quick measurements. The classic multiparametric probes are useless and the contribution of their relative chemical–physical parameters to determine the presence of microplastics in water is insignificant. The evolution in the last decade of hardware and software tools for capturing hologram images and related post-processing seems to be one of the most effective methods available currently for the rapid detection of microplastics in seawater. In particular, some results of monitoring campaigns carried out in the Adriatic Sea using this type of technology are reported. The acquired data are analyzed and discussed, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses, with indications of the possible methodologies that could be used to improve these systems.
Enhanced Crude Oil Sorption by Modified Plant Materials in Oilfield Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Shi Ya , Ma Liwa , Hou Shan , Dou Miao , Li Yongfei , Du Weichao , Chen Gang
Published: November 2022

The treatment of oilfield wastewater with high crude oil content and complex composition is a problem requiring considerable attention. In order to effectively remove crude oil contained in wastewater, in this work, rice straw, as an oil-absorbing material, was modified and used as a sorbent for crude oil. Rice straw was modified with alkali and cetyltrimethylammonium chloride (CTAC) by simple substitution reaction. The adsorption capacity of modified rice straw for oil was evaluated. The results illustrate that the adsorption rate of rice straw for crude oil was increased from 0.83 to 8.49 g/g, with the optimal conditions of 18% NaOH reacted for 90 min at 50 °C and 2% CTAC reacted for 60 min at 20 °C. The proposed modification method could be used for different materials to enhance the adsorption rate. The results of the contact angle test show that the modified straw changed from hydrophilic to hydrophobic, which may be the main reason for the improvement in the oil absorption rate. Finally, the surface structure of rice straw was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and N2 adsorption–desorption isotherms, which further confirmed the hydrophobicity of the modified rice straw.
Advances in Research on Bioactivity, Toxicity, Metabolism, and Pharmacokinetics of Usnic Acid In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Wang Hanxue , Xuan Min , Huang Cheng , Wang Changhong
Published: November 2022

Lichens are among the most widely distributed plants on earth and have the longest growth cycle. Usnic acid is an abundant characteristic secondary metabolite of lichens and the earliest lichen compound used commercially. It has diverse pharmacological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, anticancer, antioxidant, and photoprotective effects, and promotes wound healing. It is widely used in dietary supplements, daily chemical products (fodder, dyes, food, perfumery, and cosmetics), and medicine. However, some studies have found that usnic acid can cause allergic dermatitis and drug-induced liver injury. In this paper, the bioactivity, toxicity, in vivo and in vitro metabolism, and pharmacokinetics of usnic acid were summarized. The aims were to develop and utilize usnic acid and provide reference for its future research.