bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of Hydroxyapatite/Bioglass Composite Nanopowder Using Design of Experiments
Authors: Ebrahimi Shamsi , Sipaut Coswald Stephen
Published: July 2022

Composite scaffolds of hydroxyapatite (HAp) nanoparticles and bioactive glass (BG) were applied as an appropriate selection for bone tissue engineering. To this end, HAp/BG composite was synthesized by a hydrothermal method using Design of Experiments (DOE) with a combined mixture–process factor design for the first time. The input variables were hydrothermal temperature at three levels (i.e., 100, 140, 180 °C) as a process factor and two mixture components in three ratios (i.e., HAp 90, 70, 50; BG 50, 30, 10). The degree of crystallinity and crystal size in the composite were the output variables. XRD showed that only a small fraction of BG was crystallized and that a wollastonite phase was produced. The XRD results also revealed that incorporation of Si into the HAp structure inhibited HAp crystal growth and restricted its crystallization. The FTIR results also showed that the intensity of the hydroxyl peak decreased with the addition of silicon into the HAp structure. DOE results showed that the weight ratio of the components strongly influenced the crystal size and crystallinity. SEM and FTIR results identified the greatest bioactivity and apatite layer formation in the Si-HAp sample with an HAp70/BG30 ratio after 14 days immersion in simulated body fluid (SBF) solution, as compared to other ratios and HAp alone. Therefore, the combination of HAp and BG was able to yield a HAp/BG composite with significant bioactivity.
The Influence of Synthesis Method on the Local Structure and Electrochemical Properties of Li-Rich/Mn-Rich NMC Cathode Materials for Li-Ion Batteries
Authors: Hendrickx Mylène , Paulus Andreas , Kirsanova Maria A. , Van Bael Marlies K. , Abakumov Artem M. , Hardy An , Hadermann Joke
Published: July 2022

Electrochemical energy storage plays a vital role in combating global climate change. Nowadays lithium-ion battery technology remains the most prominent technology for rechargeable batteries. A key performance-limiting factor of lithium-ion batteries is the active material of the positive electrode (cathode). Lithium- and manganese-rich nickel manganese cobalt oxide (LMR-NMC) cathode materials for Li-ion batteries are extensively investigated due to their high specific discharge capacities (>280 mAh/g). However, these materials are prone to severe capacity and voltage fade, which deteriorates the electrochemical performance. Capacity and voltage fade are strongly correlated with the particle morphology and nano- and microstructure of LMR-NMCs. By selecting an adequate synthesis strategy, the particle morphology and structure can be controlled, as such steering the electrochemical properties. In this manuscript we comparatively assessed the morphology and nanostructure of LMR-NMC (Li1.2Ni0.13Mn0.54Co0.13O2) prepared via an environmentally friendly aqueous solution-gel and co-precipitation route, respectively. The solution-gel (SG) synthesized material shows a Ni-enriched spinel-type surface layer at the {200} facets, which, based on our post-mortem high-angle annual dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy and selected-area electron diffraction analysis, could partly explain the retarded voltage fade compared to the co-precipitation (CP) synthesized material. In addition, deviations in voltage fade and capacity fade (the latter being larger for the SG material) could also be correlated with the different particle morphology obtained for both materials.
Deciphering the Molecular Mechanism of Incurable Muscle Disease by a Novel Method for the Interpretation of miRNA Dysregulation
Authors: Israeli David , Vu Hong Ai , Corre Guillaume , Miagoux Quentin , Richard Isabelle
Published: July 2022

It is now well-established that microRNA dysregulation is a hallmark of human diseases, and that aberrant expression of miRNA is not randomly associated with human pathologies but plays a causal role in the pathological process. Investigations of the molecular mechanism that links miRNA dysregulation to pathophysiology can therefore further the understanding of human diseases. The biological effect of miRNA is thought to be mediated principally by miRNA target genes. Consequently, the target genes of dysregulated miRNA serve as a proxy for the biological interpretation of miRNA dysregulation, which is performed by target gene pathway enrichment analysis. However, this method unfortunately often fails to provide testable hypotheses concerning disease mechanisms. In this paper, we describe a method for the interpretation of miRNA dysregulation, which is based on miRNA host genes rather than target genes. Using this approach, we have recently identified the perturbations of lipid metabolism, and cholesterol in particular, in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). The host gene-based interpretation of miRNA dysregulation therefore represents an attractive alternative method for the biological interpretation of miRNA dysregulation.
The G3BP1-UPF1-Associated Long Non-Coding RNA CALA Regulates RNA Turnover in the Cytoplasm
Authors: Kirchhof Luisa , Fouani Youssef , Knau Andrea , Aslan Galip S. , Heumüller Andreas W. , Wittig Ilka , Müller-McNicoll Michaela , Dimmeler Stefanie , Jaé Nicolas
Published: July 2022

Besides transcription, RNA decay accounts for a large proportion of regulated gene expression and is paramount for cellular functions. Classical RNA surveillance pathways, like nonsense-mediated decay (NMD), are also implicated in the turnover of non-mutant transcripts. Whereas numerous protein factors have been assigned to distinct RNA decay pathways, the contribution of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) to RNA turnover remains unknown. Here we identify the lncRNA CALA as a potent regulator of RNA turnover in endothelial cells. We demonstrate that CALA forms cytoplasmic ribonucleoprotein complexes with G3BP1 and regulates endothelial cell functions. A detailed characterization of these G3BP1-positive complexes by mass spectrometry identifies UPF1 and numerous other NMD factors having cytoplasmic G3BP1-association that is CALA-dependent. Importantly, CALA silencing impairs degradation of NMD target transcripts, establishing CALA as a non-coding regulator of RNA steady-state levels in the endothelium.
Clinical Correlates of Measured and Predicted Resting Energy Expenditure in Patients with Anorexia Nervosa: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Bou Khalil Rami , Sultan Ariane , Seneque Maude , Richa Sami , Lefebvre Patrick , Renard Eric , Courtet Philippe , Maimoun Laurent , Guillaume Sebastien
Published: July 2022

Resting energy expenditure (REE; i.e., the calorie amount required for 24 h during a non-active period) is an important parameter in nutritional rehabilitation of patients with anorexia nervosa (AN). This study determined whether age, body mass index, AN duration/subtype/specific symptoms/clinical severity, cognitive function alterations, and psychiatric comorbidities influenced REE or the difference between the calculated and estimated REE. Patients with AN who were followed at a daycare treatment facility between May 2017 and January 2020 (n = 138) underwent a complete assessment that included the MINI, Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire, d2 test of attention, body fat composition by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) and REE measurement by indirect calorimetry (REEIC). AN subtype (N = 66 for restrictive subtype and N = 69 for non-restrictive subtype; p = 0.005), free-fat mass (<0.001), and fat mass (<0.001) were associated with REEIC. Age (p < 0.001), height (p = 0.003), and AN duration (N = 46 for <3 years and N = 82 for ≥3 years; p = 0.012) were associated with the difference between estimated REE (using the Schebendach equation) and measured REEIC. Therefore, the Schebendach equation was adjusted differently in the two patients’ subgroups (AN duration ≤ or >3 years). Overall, REE was higher in patients with restrictive than non-restrictive AN. In the absence of BIA measures, REE-estimating equations should take into account AN duration.
Maternal Dietary Patterns during Pregnancy and Child Autism-Related Traits: Results from Two US Cohorts
Authors: Vecchione Rachel , Wang Siwen , Rando Juliette , Chavarro Jorge E. , Croen Lisa A. , Fallin M. Daniele , Hertz-Picciotto Irva , Newschaffer Craig J. , Schmidt Rebecca J. , Lyall Kristen
Published: July 2022

We examined the relationship between maternal intake of established dietary patterns and child autism-related outcomes in two prospective cohorts in the United States. Participants were drawn from the Early Autism Risk Longitudinal Investigation (EARLI, n = 154) and the Nurses’ Health Study II (NHSII, n = 727). Dietary information was collected via food frequency questionnaires (FFQs) and used to calculate the empirical dietary inflammatory pattern (EDIP), Alternative Healthy Eating Index (AHEI), Western and Prudent dietary patterns, and the alternative Mediterranean Diet (aMED) score. Primary analyses examined associations with continuous autism-related traits as measured by the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS), and secondary analyses with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis. We used crude and multivariable quantile regression fixed at the 50th percentile to examine associations between quartiles of dietary patterns and SRS scores, and logistic regression to examine associations with ASD diagnosis. There was suggestion of a positive association with the Western diet (Q4 vs. Q1, ß = 11.19, 95% CI: 3.30, 19.90) in EARLI, though the association was attenuated with adjustment for total energy intake, and no clear associations were observed with other dietary patterns and ASD diagnosis or SRS scores. Further work is needed to better understand the role of maternal dietary patterns in ASD and related outcomes.
Nutritional Habits and Interventions in Childhood
Authors: Scaglioni Silvia , De Cosmi Valentina , Mazzocchi Alessandra
Published: July 2022

The present Special Issue of Nutrients aims to host scientific articles contributing to enriching the knowledge in the field of nutritional habits and intervention in childhood [...]
Outcome Evaluation on Impact of the Nutrition Intervention among Adolescents: A Feasibility, Randomised Control Study from Myheart Beat (Malaysian Health and Adolescents Longitudinal Research Team—Behavioural Epidemiology and Trial)
Authors: Majid Hazreen Abdul , Ng Ai Kah , Dahlui Maznah , Mohammadi Shooka , Mohamed Mohd Nahar Azmi bin , Su Tin Tin , Jalaludin Muhammad Yazid
Published: July 2022

A healthy eating environment in the school setting is crucial to nurture the healthy eating pattern for youth. Thus, it helps to combat the obesity issue. However, the impact of healthy school environment on healthy eating habits among Asian adolescents is scarce and less clear. This clustered randomised-control study has two objectives. The first objective was to evaluate the changes in adolescents’ dietary intake after the interventions for all arms (control; healthy cooking training only; subsidization with healthy cooking training). The second objective was to compare the effect of subsidization with healthy cooking training and healthy cooking training only with the control arm on adolescents’ dietary intakes. This study consisted of 340 secondary school students aged 14 years in rural and urban Malaysia. A total of two arms of intervention and one arm of control were included. Intervention one focused on healthy cooking preparation for the canteen and convenience shop operators. Intervention two included subsidization for fruits and vegetables with a healthy cooking preparation training for the canteen and suggestions on providing healthy options to the convenience shop operators. The outcome measured was changes to dietary intake. It was measured using a three-day dietary history pre- and post-intervention. A paired-t test was used to evaluate the outcome of intervention programmes on dietary changes for all arms (control, intervention one and two). An ANCOVA test was used to investigate the effect of providing subsidization and healthy cooking preparation training to the canteen and convenience shop operators on adolescents’ dietary intakes as compared to the control arm. Overall, the reduction in energy and carbohydrates for all arms were observed. Interestingly, fat intake was significantly increased after the four-week intervention programme under healthy cooking intervention but not in the food subsidization group. When comparing between control, healthy cooking training only and subsidization with the healthy cooking training arm, there was no significant changes between arms. A robust intervention to include subsidization of healthy foods for intervention programmes at schools in a larger scale study is needed to confirm this finding.
Thymoquinone Produces Cardioprotective Effect in β-Receptor Stimulated Myocardial Infarcted Rats via Subsiding Oxidative Stress and Inflammation
Authors: Rathod Sumit , Agrawal Yogeeta , Sherikar Abdulla , Nakhate Kartik T. , Patil Chandragouda R. , Nagoor Meeran M. F. , Ojha Shreesh , Goyal Sameer N.
Published: July 2022

Earlier studies reported that long-term treatment with thymoquinone (TQ) at a high dose (20 mg/kg) exerts a cardioprotective effect against isoproterenol (ISO)-triggered myocardial infarction (MI) in rats. In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that TQ, as a potent molecule, can exhibit cardioprotective effects at the lower dose for a short-term regimen. The rats were administered with TQ (5 mg/kg, intraperitoneal) at the 4 h interval for 2 days. ISO (100 mg/kg/day, subcutaneous) was given for 2 days to produce MI. ISO challenge results in deformation in ECG wave front, elevated left ventricular (LV) end-diastolic pressure, and reduced LVdP/dtmax and LVdP/dtmin. The levels of the cardiac biomarker in serum, such as creatine kinase MB, alanine aminotransferase, and aspartate aminotransferase, were increased. In the myocardium, a rise in malonaldehyde and decreased superoxide dismutase, glutathione, and catalase contents were observed. Furthermore, increased levels of tumor necrotic factor-α, interleukin-6, and interleukin-1β were observed in the myocardium. TQ pretreatment significantly normalized alterations in hemodynamic parameters, strengthened the antioxidant defense system, and decreased the contents of pro-inflammatory cytokines and hepatic enzymes as compared to the ISO group. Based on the results, TQ appears to be cardioprotective at low doses, and effective even administered for a shorter duration.
Correction: Dusabimana et al. Surveillance for Onchocerciasis-Associated Epilepsy and Ov16 IgG4 Testing of Children 6–10 Years Old Should Be Used to Identify Areas Where Onchocerciasis Elimination Programs Need Strengthening. Pathogens 2022, 11, 281
Authors: Dusabimana Alfred , Siewe Fodjo Joseph Nelson , Ndahura Michel Mandro , Mmbando Bruno P. , Jada Stephen Raimon , Boven Annelies , De Smet Eric , Ukety Tony , Njamnshi Alfred K. , Laudisoit Anne , Abrams Steven , Colebunders Robert
Published: July 2022

There was an error in the original publication [...]
Impact of ASFV Detergent Inactivation on Biomarkers in Serum and Saliva Samples
Authors: Franco-Martínez Lorena , Beer Martin , Martínez-Subiela Silvia , García-Manzanilla Edgar , Blome Sandra , Carrau Tessa
Published: July 2022

African swine fever (ASF) is a notifiable viral disease of domestic and wild suids. Despite intensive research efforts, the pathogenesis of the disease is still far from being understood. Analysis of biomarkers in different body fluids may supplement traditional pathogenesis studies. As reliable protocols are often established in laboratories with lower biosafety, the reliable inactivation of samples is crucial. The objective of this study was to find a procedure that inactivates the virus while preserving the biomarkers for downstream analyses. To this means, three different inactivation protocols were employed, namely Tergitol-type NP-40 (NP-40), polyoxyethylene-p-t-octylphenol (Triton X-100) and one with 95 °C heating. It could be demonstrated that all samples treated with 0.5% (v/v) concentration of both detergents showed an absence of virus infectivity. The same was true for heated samples. However, heated serum was not suitable for analyses. Next, the impact of treatment on biomarker readouts was assessed. While all protocols had an impact on the detection of biomarkers, correlation was retained. In particular, NP-40 may be the desired detergent for more accurate measurements while achieving efficient virus inactivation. Based on these studies, samples can be reliably inactivated for most biomarker analyses, and thus broader interdisciplinary cooperation is possible.
Inflammation Induced by Lipopolysaccharide and Palmitic Acid Increases Cholesterol Accumulation via Enhancing Myeloid Differentiation Factor 88 Expression in HepG2 Cells
Authors: Chen Junbin , Liu Yuguo , Luo Huiyu , Chen Guoxun , Zheng Zhongdaixi , Wang Tiannan , Hu Xinge , Zhao Yue , Tang Jiaqi , Su Chuhong , Zha Longying
Published: July 2022

Recently, multiple studies have shown that chronic inflammation disturbs cholesterol homeostasis and promotes its accumulation in the liver. The underlying molecular mechanism remains to be revealed. The relationship between the toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) inflammatory signaling pathway and cholesterol accumulation was investigated in HepG2 cells treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or palmitic acid (PA) for different lengths of time. In addition, the effects of pretreatment with 20μmol/L ST2825 (MyD88 inhibitor) were also studied in LPS- or PA-treated HepG2 cells and myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88)-overexpressing HEK293T cells. The intracellular total and free cholesterol levels were measured using a commercial kit and filipin staining, respectively. The expression levels of sterol regulatory element-binding protein-2 (SREBP-2) and components in the TLR4 signaling pathway were determined using Western blotting. The treatments with LPS for 12 h and with PA for 24 h significantly increased the contents of intracellular total and free cholesterol, as well as the expression levels of SREBP-2 and components in the TLR4 signaling pathway. The inhibition of MyD88 by ST2825 significantly decreased the cholesterol content and the expression levels of SREBP-2 and components of the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway in HepG2 cells, as well as MyD88-overexpressing HEK293T cells. These results indicated that LPS and PA treatments increase SREBP-2-mediated cholesterol accumulation via the activation of the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway in HepG2 cells.
Targeting Colorectal Cancer Cells with Niosomes Systems Loaded with Two Anticancer Drugs Models; Comparative In Vitro and Anticancer Studies
Authors: El-Far Shaymaa Wagdy , Abo El-Enin Hadel A. , Abdou Ebtsam M. , Nafea Ola Elsayed , Abdelmonem Rehab
Published: July 2022

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is considered one of the most commonly diagnosed malignant diseases. Recently, there has been an increased focus on using nanotechnology to resolve most of the limitations in conventional chemotherapy. Niosomes have great advantages that overcome the drawbacks associated with other lipid drug delivery systems. They are simple, cheap, and highly stable nanocarriers. This study investigated the effectiveness of using niosomes with their amphiphilic characteristics in the incorporation of both hydrophilic and hydrophobic anticancer drugs for CRC treatment. Methods: Drug-free niosomes were formulated using a response surface D-optimal factorial design to study the cholesterol molar ratio, surfactant molar ratio and surfactant type effect on the particle size and Z-potential of the prepared niosomes. After numerical and statistical optimization, an optimized formulation having a particle size of 194.4 ± 15.5 nm and a Z-potential of 31.8 ± 1.9 mV was selected to be loaded with Oxaliplatin and Paclitaxel separately in different concentrations. The formulations with the highest entrapment efficiency (EE%) were evaluated for their drug release using the dialysis bag method, in vitro antitumor activity on HT-29 colon cancer cell line and apoptosis activity. Results: Niosomes prepared using d-α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate (TPGS) at a molar ratio 4, cholesterol (2 molar ratio) and loaded with 1 molar ratio of either Oxaliplatin or Paclitaxel provided nanosized vesicles (278.5 ± 19.7 and 251.6 ± 18.1 nm) with a Z-potential value (32.7 ± 1.01 and 31.69 ± 0.98 mV) with the highest EE% (90.57 ± 2.05 and 93.51 ± 2.97) for Oxaliplatin and Paclitaxel, respectively. These formulations demonstrated up to 48 h drug release and increased the in vitro cytotoxicity and apoptosis efficiency of both drugs up to twice as much as free drugs. Conclusion: These findings suggest that different formulation composition parameters can be adjusted to obtain nanosized niosomal vesicles with an accepted Z-potential. These niosomes could be loaded with either hydrophilic drugs such as Oxaliplatin or hydrophobic drugs such as Paclitaxel. Drug-loaded niosomes, as a unique nanomicellar system, could enhance the cellular uptake of both drugs, resulting in enhanced cytotoxic and apoptosis effects against HT-29 colon cancer cells. Oxaliplatin–niosomes and Paclitaxel–niosomes can be considered promising alternative drug delivery systems with enhanced bioavailability of these two anticancer drugs for colorectal cancer treatment.
Physical Characteristics, Mineral Content, and Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activities of Punica granatum or Citrus sinensis Peel Extracts and Their Applications to Improve Cake Quality
Authors: El-Beltagi Hossam S. , Eshak Nareman S. , Mohamed Heba I. , Bendary Eslam S. A. , Danial Amal W.
Published: July 2022

One-third of all food produced for human use is discarded as waste, resulting in environmental pollution and impaired food security. Fruit peels have bioactive compounds that may be used as antimicrobials and antioxidants, and the use of fruit peels is considered an alternative way to reduce environmental problems and agro-industrial waste. The aim of this study was to evaluate the phytochemical, mineral, extraction yield, total phenolic, total flavonoids, antioxidant, and antibacterial activity of several peel fruits, including Citrus sinensis (orange) and Punica granatum (pomegranate). The results revealed that pomegranate peel powder contains the highest amounts of ash, fiber, total carbohydrates, Ca, Fe, Mg, and Cu, while orange peel contains the highest amounts of moisture, protein, crude fat, P, and K. Furthermore, the aqueous and methanolic pomegranate peel extracts yielded higher total phenolic and total flavonoids than the orange peel extract. The identification and quantification of polyphenol compounds belonging to different classes, such as tannins, phenolic acids, and flavonoids in pomegranate peel and flavonoid compounds in orange peel were performed using UPLC-MS/MS. In addition, GC-MS analysis of orange peel essential oil discovered that the predominant compound is D-Limonene (95.7%). The aqueous and methanolic extracts of pomegranate peel were proven to be efficient against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria linked to human infections. Sponge cake substituting wheat flour with 3% pomegranate peel and 10% orange peel powder had the highest total phenolic, flavonoid compounds, and antioxidant activity as compared to the control cake. Our results concluded that pomegranate and orange peel flour can be used in cake preparation and natural food preservers.
Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi and Fertilization Influence Yield, Growth and Root Colonization of Different Tomato Genotype
Authors: Felföldi Zoltán , Vidican Roxana , Stoian Vlad , Roman Ioana A. , Sestras Adriana F. , Rusu Teodor , Sestras Radu E.
Published: July 2022

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are beneficial for plant development and help absorb water and minerals from the soil. The symbiosis between these fungi and plant roots is extremely important and could limit crop dependence on fertilizers. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of AMF on tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum L.), based on important agronomic traits of vegetative biomass, production, and fruits. The experiment was conducted in high tunnels, using 12 tomato genotypes under three different treatments: T1, control, without fertilizer and mycorrhizae colonization; T2, fertigation, without mycorrhizae colonization; and T3, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), seedling roots being inoculated with specialized soil-borne fungi. Plant growth, yield and fruit parameters indicated better results under mycorrhizal treatment. Root colonization with fungi varied significantly depending on the treatment and genotype, with a variation of 6.0–80.3% for frequency and 2.6–24.6% for intensity. For a majority of characteristics, the mycorrhization (T3) induced significant differences compared with the T1 and T2 treatments. In addition, AMF treatment induced a different response among the genotypes. Among the elements analyzed in the soil, significant differences were observed in phosphorous levels between planting the seedlings and after tomato harvesting and clearing of the plants. The results suggest that reducing fertilizers and promoting the symbiotic relationships of plants with soil microorganisms may have beneficial consequences for tomato crops.
Metabolome Profiling: A Breeding Prediction Tool for Legume Performance under Biotic Stress Conditions
Authors: Makhumbila Penny , Rauwane Molemi , Muedi Hangwani , Figlan Sandiswa
Published: July 2022

Legume crops such as common bean, pea, alfalfa, cowpea, peanut, soybean and others contribute significantly to the diet of both humans and animals. They are also important in the improvement of cropping systems that employ rotation and fix atmospheric nitrogen. Biotic stresses hinder the production of leguminous crops, significantly limiting their yield potential. There is a need to understand the molecular and biochemical mechanisms involved in the response of these crops to biotic stressors. Simultaneous expressions of a number of genes responsible for specific traits of interest in legumes under biotic stress conditions have been reported, often with the functions of the identified genes unknown. Metabolomics can, therefore, be a complementary tool to understand the pathways involved in biotic stress response in legumes. Reports on legume metabolomic studies in response to biotic stress have paved the way in understanding stress-signalling pathways. This review provides a progress update on metabolomic studies of legumes in response to different biotic stresses. Metabolome annotation and data analysis platforms are discussed together with future prospects. The integration of metabolomics with other “omics” tools in breeding programmes can aid greatly in ensuring food security through the production of stress tolerant cultivars.
Advances in the Micropropagation and Genetic Transformation of Agave Species
Authors: Bautista-Montes Erika , Hernández-Soriano Laura , Simpson June
Published: July 2022

The Agave genus is composed of approximately 210 species distributed from south United States to Colombia and Venezuela. Numerous Agave species have been used for the preparation of alcoholic beverages and have attracted interest in the pharmaceutical and food industry. Despite their economic importance, there are few initiatives for the improvement and selection of characteristics of interest. This is mainly due to its morphology, long lifecycles, and monocarpic nature. Micropropagation is a feasible alternative to the improvement of Agave species. It has been used for multiple purposes, including massive propagation, induction of somaclonal variation to enhance agronomic characteristics of interest, maintenance of specific genotypes, and genetic transformation using molecular techniques. In this report, we summarize the most outstanding findings regarding the micropropagation of Agave species mediated by multiple regeneration responses. We also describe the media and growth regulators for each of the previously described methods. In addition, we discuss how micropropagation has allowed the development of transformation protocols. Exploitation of this technology may be a feasible strategy to introduce genes and improve certain traits. Genetic transformation also offers an opportunity for studying molecular mechanisms. This represents advantages for optimizing production in the field and for implementing breeding programs.
Shear Bond Strength of Composite Diluted with Composite-Handling Agents on Dentin and Enamel
Authors: Kim Mijoo , Jo Deuk-Won , Khalifah Shahed Al , Yu Bo , Hayashi Marc , Kim Reuben H.
Published: July 2022

This in vitro study aimed to examine the shear bond strength of composite on the dentin and enamel substrates when mixed with different composite-handling agents (CHAs). Eighty extracted molars were embedded into acrylic resin and sectioned sagittally. On the prepared specimens, four groups of resin mixtures were bonded onto the enamel or dentin surfaces—composite only, composite mixed with Composite Wetting Resin (CWR), composite mixed with Brush and Sculpt (BS), and composite mixed with Modeling Resin (MR). All groups were prepared by mixing at a 1:1 ratio by weight. Each specimen was subjected to the shear bond strength test. After the test, adhesive or cohesive failures were examined at the fractured sites. Data were analyzed using one-way and two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the Tukey post hoc test. All composite groups mixed with CHAs displayed a reduced shear bond strength on dentin and enamel substrates compared to composite alone (p < 0.05). The shear bond strength on dentin decreased in the following order: CWR > BS > MR. A similar pattern was observed on enamel, except that there was no statistically significant difference between BS and MR. Statistically significant interactions between resin mixtures and substrates were found (p < 0.001). On the dentin substrate, adhesive failure dominated while adhesive/cohesive failure dominated on the enamel substrate. Conclusions: The shear bonding strength of composite decreases when mixed with CHAs on both dentin and enamel substrates.
Polyurea for Blast and Impact Protection: A Review
Authors: Zhang Rui , Huang Weibo , Lyu Ping , Yan Shuai , Wang Xu , Ju Jiahui
Published: July 2022

Polyurea has attracted extensive attention from researchers and engineers in the field of blast and impact protection due to its excellent quasi-static mechanical properties and dynamic mechanical properties. Its mechanical properties and energy absorption capacity have been tuned by means of formulation optimization, molecular dynamics (MD) simulation and the addition of reinforcing materials. Owing to the special molecular structure of polyurea, the mechanism of polyurea protection against blasts and impacts is the simultaneous effect of multiple properties. For different substrates and structures, polyurea needs to provide different performance characteristics, including adhesion, hardness, breaking elongation, etc., depending on the characteristics of the load to which it is subjected. The current article reviews relevant publications in the field of polyurea blast and impact protection, including material optimization, protection mechanisms and applications in blast and impact protection.
Biocompatibility Assessment of Two Commercial Bone Xenografts by In Vitro and In Vivo Methods
Authors: Valencia-Llano Carlos Humberto , López-Tenorio Diego , Grande-Tovar Carlos David
Published: July 2022

Bone substitutes based on xenografts have been used for a long time in bone regeneration thanks to their inductive capacity for bone tissue regeneration. Some bone-based scaffolds have been modified by adding collagen and other proteins to improve their regenerative capacity and prevent migration and aggregation, especially particles. However, rejection of this graft has been reported due to protein residues caused by poor material preparation. We compared the in vitro and in vivo biological response of two commercial xenografts (InterOss®, F1 and InterOss® Collagen, F2) and a commercial porcine collagen membrane (InterCollagen® Guide, F3) as a rapid degradation control. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) analysis evidenced the presence of hydroxyl, orthophosphate, and carbonate groups of the xenografts and amide groups of collagen. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) of the xenografts demonstrated their thermal stability and the presence of a few amounts of organic material. The study by differential scanning calorimetry showed the presence of endothermic peaks typical of the dehydration of the xenografts (F1 and F2) and for the collagen membrane (F3), the beginning of structural three-dimensional protein changes. Subsequently, in vitro biocompatibility tests were carried out for the materials with Artemia salina and MTT cell viability with HeLa cells, demonstrating the high biocompatibility of the materials. Finally, in vivo biocompatibility was studied by implanting xenografts in biomodels (Wistar rats) at different periods (30, 60, and 90 days). The F1 xenograft (InterOss) remained remarkably stable throughout the experiment (90 days). F2 (InterOss Collagen) presented a separation of its apatite and collagen components at 60 days and advanced resorption at 90 days of implantation. Finally, the collagen membrane (F3) presented faster resorption since, at 90 days, only some tiny fragments of the material were evident. All the in vivo and in vitro test results demonstrated the biocompatibility of the xenografts, demonstrating the potential of these materials for tissue engineering.
Simulation of Cone-Jet and Micro-Drip Regimes and Printing of Micro-Scale Patterns on PET Substrate
Authors: Wang Dazhi , Abbas Zeshan , Lu Liangkun , Liang Shiwen , Zhao Xiangyu , Xu Pengfei , Zhao Kuipeng , Suo Liujia , Cui Yan , Yin Penghe , Tang Bin , Xie Jin , Yang Yong , Liang Junsheng
Published: July 2022

The fabrication of various micro-patterns on polymer insulating substrates is a current requirement in micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) and packaging sectors. In this paper, we use electrohydrodynamic jet (E-Jet) printing to create multifaceted and stable micro-patterns on a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrate. Initially, simulation was performed to investigate optimized printing settings in phase field physics for the usage of two distinct functional inks. A series of simulation experiments was conducted, and it was determined that the following parameters are optimised: applied pressure of 40 kPa, high pulse voltage of 1.95 kV, low dc voltage of 1.60 kV, duty cycle of 80%, pulse frequency of 60 Hz, printing height of 0.25 mm, and printing speed of 1 mm/s. Then, experiments showed that adjusting a pressure value of 40 kPa and regulating the SEMICOSIL988/1 K ink to print micro-drops on a polymer substrate with a thickness of 1 mm prevents coffee staining. The smallest measured droplet size was 200 μm. Furthermore, underfill (UF 3808) ink was driven with applied pressure to 50 kPa while other parameters were left constant, and the minimum size of linear patterns was printed to 105 μm on 0.5-mm-thick PET substrate. During the micro-drip and cone-jet regimes, the consistency and diameter of printed micro-structures were accurately regulated at a pulse frequency of 60 Hz and a duty cycle of 80%.
Thermal Stability, Dynamic Mechanical Analysis and Flammability Properties of Woven Kenaf/Polyester-Reinforced Polylactic Acid Hybrid Laminated Composites
Authors: Azlin M. , Sapuan S. , Zuhri M. , Zainudin E. , Ilyas R.
Published: July 2022

This paper presents the thermal and flammability properties of woven kenaf/polyester-reinforced polylactic acid hybrid laminated composites. The effects of the fiber content and stacking sequences of hybrid composites were examined. The hybrid composites were fabricated using the hot press method. Thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, dynamic mechanical analysis, and flammability properties of woven kenaf/polyester-reinforced polylactic hybrid composites were reported. The thermal results have demonstrated the effect of the hybridization of the composites on the thermal stability and viscoelastic properties of the laminates. The work also measured the burning rate of the hybrid composites during the flammability test. The S7 sample that consisted of all woven kenaf layers in composite recorded the highest char residue of 10%, and the S8 sample displayed the highest decomposition temperature among all samples. However, as for hybrid composites, the S5 sample shows the optimum result with a high char yield and exhibited the lowest burning rate at 29 mm/min. The S5 sample also shows the optimum viscoelastic properties such as storage and loss modulus among hybrid composites.
Effects of Forest Types on SOC and DOC in the Permafrost Region of the Daxing’anling Mountains
Authors: Du Weiwei , Wang Di , Wu Xiaodong , Zhao Lin , Zang Shuying
Published: July 2022

There is a “symbiotic relationship” between permafrost and the forest ecosystem; the melted permafrost provides sufficient water for forest growth, and the forest ecosystem plays an important role in protecting the permafrost. Aiming to study the effects of different forest types on soil organic carbon (SOC) and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) in the permafrost region of the Daxing’anling Mountains, this research focuses on the soil of the three forest types of pinus sylvestris var. mongolica forest, larch forest, and birch forest in Beiji Village, Mohe County, Daxing’anling Region, and collected vertical profile soil samples from the three soil layers of 0–10, 10–20, and 20–30 cm at three different sites types (upslope, mesoslope, and downslope) in August 2017. The results show that the forest type is the main influencing factor for the content of SOC and DOC. The site type has a significant effect on the content of SOC and DOC in the three forest types, but the difference varies slightly (p > 0.05). The content of SOC and DOC is negatively correlated with the depth of the soil layer of the vertical profile. The geodetector data analysis shows that there are significant differences (p < 0.05) among the contents of SOC and DOC in the three forest types. In conclusion, this study contributes to an in-depth understanding of carbon storage, the carbon dynamics of SOC, and the effects of different forest types on carbon balance in permafrost regions, and it provides a scientific basis for the study of the carbon cycle mechanism in permafrost regions.
Process Intensification in Chemical Reaction Engineering
Authors: Russo Vincenzo , Haase Stefan , Tolvanen Pasi
Published: July 2022

Process Intensification (PI) is a modern trend in Chemical Reaction Engineering (CRE) science [...]
Performance Comparison of EGSB and IC Reactors for Treating High-Salt Fatty Acid Organic Production Wastewater
Authors: Lu Qinfang , Jeong Byung-gon , Lai Shirong , Yan Zehua , Xiao Xin , Jiang Wei
Published: July 2022

This study used the EGSB and IC reactors to treat the high-salt and high-concentration organic wastewater (high-salt fatty acid production wastewater) and compared their performances The experimental results showed that the optimal influent water quality thresholds for both bioreactors to treat this wastewater were a COD concentration of 18,000 mg/L and a sulfate ion concentration of about 8000 mg/L. The reactor operated well when C/S was greater than 2.8. In addition, the value of C/S should not be less than 1.5. This is due to that under this condition, the sulfate reduction process has a significant impact on the removal of COD, and MPB may be inhibited by sulfides. The organic load OLR should not be greater than 10 kgCOD/(m3·d). It was also found that the start-up time of the IC reactor with external circulation was slightly shorter, and the COD removal effect, gas production rate, and load tolerance were slightly better than those of the EGSB reactor, the best reflux ratio of the two reactors was 6:1. The appropriate rising flow rate was 0.4 m/h.
Model-Based Investigation of the Interaction of Gas-Consuming Reactions and Internal Circulation Flow within Jet Loop Reactors
Authors: Breit Ferdinand , Bey Oliver , von Harbou Erik
Published: July 2022

Jet loop reactors are standard multiphase reactors used in chemical, biological and environmental processes. The strong liquid jet provided by a nozzle enforces both internal circulation of liquid and gas as well as entrainment and dispersion of the gas phase. We present a one-dimensional compartment model based on a momentum balance that describes the internal circulation of gas and liquid phase in the jet loop reactor. This model considers the influence of local variations of the gas volume fraction on the internal circulation. These local variations can be caused by coalescence of gas bubbles, additional gas-feeding points and gas consumption or production. In this work, we applied the model to study the influence of a gas-consuming reaction on the internal circulation. In a comprehensive sensitivity analysis, the interaction of different parameters such as rate of reaction, power input through the nozzle, gas holdup, reactor geometry, and circulation rate were investigated. The results show that gas consumption can have a significant impact on internal circulation. Industrially relevant operating conditions have even been found where the internal circulation comes to a complete standstill.
Strengthening Criteria Independence through Optimization of Alternative Value Ratio Comparisons
Authors: Kristbaum Joseph , Ciarallo Frank
Published: July 2022

Every decision maker’s internal scale is different based on a myriad of possible factors unique to that decision maker. Conflicting criteria within and between alternatives in multicriteria decision making can create negative effects within the weighting schemes and amplify preference biases and scale disparities between decision makers in a group decision context. Additionally, the weighting of group decision-making frameworks can intensify the already skewed criteria values. When making judgments against requirements, it may be preferable to reduce scale trend distortions between decision makers as much as possible. Previous research supports that certain information presentation modes can significantly reduce preference bias and strengthen criteria independence against requirements through cross alternative anchoring. This paper expands that research and proposes a new optimization model for strengthening criteria independence and consensus in group decision making. Initial results indicate the proposed optimization model can significantly reduce scale distortions and smooth comparative alternative value trends between decision makers toward strengthened group consensus. Furthermore, results support the potential and opportunity for semiautonomous group consensus processes.
Application of Deep Learning in the Deployment of an Industrial SCARA Machine for Real-Time Object Detection
Authors: Kapusi Tibor Péter , Erdei Timotei István , Husi Géza , Hajdu András
Published: July 2022

In the spirit of innovation, the development of an intelligent robot system incorporating the basic principles of Industry 4.0 was one of the objectives of this study. With this aim, an experimental application of an industrial robot unit in its own isolated environment was carried out using neural networks. In this paper, we describe one possible application of deep learning in an Industry 4.0 environment for robotic units. The image datasets required for learning were generated using data synthesis. There are significant benefits to the incorporation of this technology, as old machines can be smartened and made more efficient without additional costs. As an area of application, we present the preparation of a robot unit which at the time it was originally produced and commissioned was not capable of using machine learning technology for object-detection purposes. The results for different scenarios are presented and an overview of similar research topics on neural networks is provided. A method for synthetizing datasets of any size is described in detail. Specifically, the working domain of a given robot unit, a possible solution to compatibility issues and the learning of neural networks from 3D CAD models with rendered images will be discussed.
Suggestive Data Annotation for CNN-Based Building Footprint Mapping Based on Deep Active Learning and Landscape Metrics
Authors: Li Zhichao , Zhang Shuai , Dong Jinwei
Published: July 2022

Convolutional neural network (CNN)-based very high-resolution (VHR) image segmentation has become a common way of extracting building footprints. Despite publicly available building datasets and pre-trained CNN models, it is still necessary to prepare sufficient labeled image tiles to train CNN models from scratch or update the parameters of pre-trained CNN models to extract buildings accurately in real-world applications, especially the large-scale building extraction, due to differences in landscapes and data sources. Deep active learning is an effective technique for resolving this issue. This study proposes a framework integrating two state-of-the-art (SOTA) models, U-Net and DeeplabV3+, three commonly used active learning strategies, (i.e., margin sampling, entropy, and vote entropy), and landscape characterization to illustrate the performance of active learning in reducing the effort of data annotation, and then understand what kind of image tiles are more advantageous for CNN-based building extraction. The framework enables iteratively selecting the most informative image tiles from the unlabeled dataset for data annotation, training the CNN models, and analyzing the changes in model performance. It also helps us to understand the landscape features of iteratively selected image tiles via active learning by considering building as the focal class and computing the percent, the number of patches, edge density, and landscape shape index of buildings based on labeled tiles in each selection. The proposed method was evaluated on two benchmark building datasets, WHU satellite dataset II and WHU aerial dataset. Models in each iteration were trained from scratch on all labeled tiles. Experimental results based on the two datasets indicate that, for both U-Net and DeeplabV3+, the three active learning strategies can reduce the number of image tiles to be annotated and achieve good model performance with fewer labeled image tiles. Moreover, image tiles with more building patches, larger areas of buildings, longer edges of buildings, and more dispersed building distribution patterns were more effective for model training. The study not only provides a framework to reduce the data annotation efforts in CNN-based building extraction but also summarizes the preliminary suggestions for data annotation, which could facilitate and guide data annotators in real-world applications.
Broadband Acoustic Sensing with Optical Nanofiber Couplers Working at the Dispersion Turning Point
Authors: Gao Xu , Wen Jiajie , Wang Jiajia , Li Kaiwei
Published: July 2022

Herein, a broadband ultrasensitive acoustic sensor based on an optical nanofiber coupler (ONC) attached to a diaphragm is designed and experimentally demonstrated. The ONC is sensitive to axial strain and works as the core transducing element to monitor the deformation of the diaphragm driven by acoustic waves. We first theoretically studied the sensing property of the ONC to axial strain and the deformation of the diaphragm. The results reveal that ONC working at the dispersion turning point (DTP) shows improved ultra-sensitivity towards axial strain, and the largest deformation of the circular diaphragm occurs at the center. Guided by the theoretical results, we fabricated an ONC with a DPT at 1550 nm, and we fixed one end of the ONC to the center of the diaphragm and the other end to the edge to construct the acoustic sensor. Finally, the experimental results show that the sensor can achieve accurate measurement in the broadband acoustic wave range of 30~20,000 Hz with good linearity. Specifically, when the input acoustic wave frequency is 120 Hz, the sensitivity reaches 1923 mV/Pa, the signal-to-noise ratio is 42.45 dB, and the minimum detectable sound pressure is 330 μPa/Hz1/2. The sensor has the merits of simple structure, low cost, and high performance, and it provides a new method for acoustic wave detection.