bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chorioretinal Folds in the Trabeculectomized Eye with Normal Intraocular Pressure after Phacoemulsification
Authors: Lai Yi-Fen , Chen Ching-Long , Huang Ke-Hao , Chen Yi-Hao
Published: August 2021

Background and Objectives: This case report discusses possible causes of chorioretinal fold (CRF) formation. Materials and Methods: A case report. Results: A 48-year-old man presented with a history of high myopia and primary open-angle glaucoma in both eyes. He underwent a trabeculectomy followed by phacoemulsification in both eyes. Two months later, he complained of blurred vision in the right eye. The intraocular pressure (IOP) was 17 mmHg in the left eye and 9 mmHg in the right eye. Refraction showed a hyperopic shift in both eyes. Slit-lamp examination showed a deep anterior chamber without cells and a well-functional bleb without leakage. Fundus examination revealed CRFs in the macula of the right eye. No papilledema, choroidal lesions, or other retinal lesions were found. Wrinkling of CRFs at the macula, an increase in central foveal thickness, and a fluid cleft were demonstrated by spectral-domain optical coherence tomography. After using steroid eye drops, the IOP in the right eye and refraction in both eyes recovered to the baseline level. Visual acuity improved in both eyes. Conclusions: CRFs in trabeculectomized eyes with normal IOP after phacoemulsification have not been reported. This case demonstrated that the trabeculectomized eye remains at risk of CRF formation, even if the IOP is normal without hypotony. The importance of a detailed fundus examination in patients with unexplained blurred vision may be necessary after having undergone these procedures. The early recognition of the cause of visual loss may facilitate immediate treatment and may avoid irreversible changes with permanent visual loss.
Topical Wound Oxygen Therapy in the Treatment of Chronic Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Authors: Frykberg Robert G.
Published: August 2021

Oxygen is a critical component of many biological processes and is essential for wound healing. Chronic wounds are typically characterized as being hypoxic in that the partial pressure of oxygen (pO2) in the center of the wound is often below a critical threshold necessary to fully support those enzymatic processes necessary for tissue repair. Providing supplemental oxygen can effectively raise pO2 levels to better optimize functioning of these essential enzymes. While hyperbaric oxygen therapy has been well studied in this regard, comparative clinical studies have fallen short of providing clear evidence in support of this modality for healing chronic diabetic foot ulcers (DFU). Topical oxygen therapy (TOT) has been in clinical use for over 50 years with encouraging pre-clinical and clinical studies that have shown improved healing rates when compared to standard care. Nonetheless, TOT has heretofore been discounted as an unproven wound healing modality without theoretical or clinical evidence to support its use. This review shall provide a brief summary of the role of oxygen in wound healing and, specifically, discuss the different types of topical oxygen devices and associated studies that have convincingly shown their efficacy in healing chronic DFUs. The time has come for topical oxygen therapy to be embraced as a proven adjunctive modality in this regard.
A Randomized Controlled Trial of the Efficacy of Systemic Enzymes and Probiotics in the Resolution of Post-COVID Fatigue
Authors: Rathi Abhijit , Jadhav Swati B. , Shah Neha
Published: August 2021

Muscle fatigue and cognitive disturbances persist in patients after recovery from acute COVID-19 disease. However, there are no specific treatments for post-COVID fatigue. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the health supplements ImmunoSEB (systemic enzyme complex) and ProbioSEB CSC3 (probiotic complex) in patients suffering from COVID-19 induced fatigue. A randomized, multicentric, double blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted in 200 patients with a complaint of post-COVID fatigue. The test arm (n = 100) received the oral supplements for 14 days and the control arm (n = 100) received a placebo. Treatment efficacy was compared using the Chalder Fatigue scale (CFQ-11), at various time points from days 1 to 14. The supplemental treatment resulted in resolution of fatigue in a greater percentage of subjects in the test vs. the control arm (91% vs. 15%) on day 14. Subjects in the test arm showed a significantly greater reduction in total as well as physical and mental fatigue scores at all time points vs. the control arm. The supplements were well tolerated with no adverse events reported. This study demonstrates that a 14 days supplementation of ImmunoSEB + ProbioSEB CSC3 resolves post-COVID-19 fatigue and can improve patients’ functional status and quality of life.
In Silico Study of the Electrically Conductive and Electrochemical Properties of Hybrid Films Formed by Bilayer Graphene and Single-Wall Nanotubes under Axial Stretching
Authors: Slepchenkov Michael M. , Barkov Pavel V. , Glukhova Olga E.
Published: August 2021

Using the self-consistent-charge density-functional tight-binding (SCC-DFTB) method, we studied the effect of axial stretching on the electrical conductivity and quantum capacitance of hybrid films formed by AB-stacked bilayer graphene and horizontally oriented single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) with indices chirality (12, 6). The paper discusses several topological models of hybrid graphene/SWCNT (12, 6) films, which differ in the width of the graphene layer in the supercell and in the value of the shift between the graphene layers. It is shown that axial stretching has a different effect on the electrical conductivity and quantum capacity of the hybrid graphene/SWCNT (12, 6) film depending on the width of the graphene layer. For a topological model with a minimum width of the graphene layer (2 hexagons) under a 10% stretching strain, the transformation of bilayer graphene from planar to wave-like structures is characteristic. This transformation is accompanied by the appearance of the effect of anisotropy of electrical conductivity and a sharp decrease in the maximum of quantum capacitance. For a topological model with a graphene layer width of 4 hexagons, axial stretching, on the contrary, leads to a decrease in the effect of anisotropy of electrical conductivity and insignificant changes in the quantum capacitance. Based on the obtained results, the prospects for using hybrid graphene/SWCNT (12, 6) films as a material for creating flexible electrodes of supercapacitors are predicted.
Formulation and Bioavailability of Novel Mucoadhesive Buccal Films for Candesartan Cilexetil in Rats
Authors: Mady Omar , Abulmeaty Mahmoud , Donia Ahmed , Al-Khureif Abdulaziz , Al-Shoubki Adam , Abudawood Manal , Abdel Moety Doaa
Published: August 2021

Candesartan cilexetil (CC) is an antihypertensive drug. It has low solubility and faces hepatic first-pass metabolism after oral ingestion. We formulated bioadhesive buccal films and studied the respective drug pharmacokinetics. Different bioadhesive films were prepared (40, 80, 120, 160, 200, and 240 mg CC per film) by using the solvent casting method. The drug concentrations used affect the drug entrapment mechanism, which was reflected in the film physicochemical properties like thickness, weight, drug content, bioadhesion, and drug release. Low drug concentration (F2, 40 mg per film) led to minute drug crystal dispersion while increasing the drug concentration (F7, 240 mg per film) showed drug crystal encapsulation, which affects the drug release. The drug pharmacokinetic from the prepared films was studied compared to the oral form by serial blood sampling via an inserted catheter in the carotid of rats. High-Performance Liquid Chromatography assay was used to measure the plasma concentration of CC in different forms. Compared to other films, the F2 showed the highest maximal concentration (Cmax) and the lowest elimination half-life (t1/2). Bioadhesion buccal film of CC has better bioavailability, especially at low concentrations. The ease, robustness, and ruggedness of the preparation suggests the same procedure for drugs like CC.
Microcrystalline Cellulose-Blended Polyethersulfone Membranes for Enhanced Water Permeability and Humic Acid Removal
Authors: Nazri Amirul Islah , Ahmad Abdul Latif , Hussin Mohd Hazwan
Published: August 2021

A novel polyethersulfone (PES)/microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) composite membrane for humic acid (HA) removal in water was fabricated using the phase inversion method by blending hydrophilic MCC with intrinsically hydrophobic PES in a lithium chloride/N,N-dimethylacetamide (LiCl/DMAc) co-solvent system. A rheological study indicated that the MCC-containing casting solutions exhibited a significant increase in viscosity, which directly influenced the composite membrane’s pore structure. Compared to the pristine PES membrane, the composite membranes have a larger surface pore size, elongated finger-like structure, and presence of sponge-like pores. The water contact angle and pure water flux of the composite membranes indicated an increase in hydrophilicity of the modified membranes. However, the permeability of the composite membranes started to decrease at 3 wt.% MCC and beyond. The natural organic matter removal experiments were performed using humic acid (HA) as the surface water pollutant. The hydrophobic HA rejection was significantly increased by the enhanced hydrophilic PES/MCC composite membrane via the hydrophobic–hydrophilic interaction and pore size exclusion. This study provides insight into the utilization of a low-cost and environmentally friendly additive to improve the hydrophilicity of PES membranes for efficient removal of HA in water.
Homomeric and Heteromeric α7 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors in Health and Some Central Nervous System Diseases
Authors: Borroni Virginia , Barrantes Francisco J.
Published: August 2021

Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) are pentameric ligand-gated ion channels involved in the modulation of essential brain functions such as memory, learning, and attention. Homomeric α7 nAChR, formed exclusively by five identical α7 subunits, is involved in rapid synaptic transmission, whereas the heteromeric oligomers composed of α7 in combination with β subunits display metabotropic properties and operate in slower time frames. At the cellular level, the activation of nAChRs allows the entry of Na+ and Ca2+; the two cations depolarize the membrane and trigger diverse cellular signals, depending on the type of nAChR pentamer and neurons involved, the location of the intervening cells, and the networks of which these neuronal cells form part. These features make the α7 nAChR a central player in neurotransmission, metabolically associated Ca2+-mediated signaling, and modulation of diverse fundamental processes operated by other neurotransmitters in the brain. Due to its ubiquitous distribution and the multiple functions it displays in the brain, the α7 nAChR is associated with a variety of neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders whose exact etiopathogenic mechanisms are still elusive.
Recent Progress in Mixed-Matrix Membranes for Hydrogen Separation
Authors: Chuah Chong Yang , Jiang Xu , Goh Kunli , Wang Rong
Published: August 2021

Membrane separation is a compelling technology for hydrogen separation. Among the different types of membranes used to date, the mixed-matrix membranes (MMMs) are one of the most widely used approaches for enhancing separation performances and surpassing the Robeson upper bound limits for polymeric membranes. In this review, we focus on the recent progress in MMMs for hydrogen separation. The discussion first starts with a background introduction of the current hydrogen generation technologies, followed by a comparison between the membrane technology and other hydrogen purification technologies. Thereafter, state-of-the-art MMMs, comprising emerging filler materials that include zeolites, metal-organic frameworks, covalent organic frameworks, and graphene-based materials, are highlighted. The binary filler strategy, which uses two filler materials to create synergistic enhancements in MMMs, is also described. A critical evaluation on the performances of the MMMs is then considered in context, before we conclude with our perspectives on how MMMs for hydrogen separation can advance moving forward.
The CO Tolerance of Pt/C and Pt-Ru/C Electrocatalysts in a High-Temperature Electrochemical Cell Used for Hydrogen Separation
Authors: Vermaak Leandri , Neomagus Hein W. J. P. , Bessarabov Dmitri G.
Published: August 2021

This paper describes an experimental evaluation and comparison of Pt/C and Pt-Ru/C electrocatalysts for high-temperature (100–160 °C) electrochemical hydrogen separators, for the purpose of mitigating CO poisoning. The performances of both Pt/C and Pt-Ru/C (Pt:Ru atomic ratio 1:1) were investigated and compared under pure hydrogen and a H2/CO gas mixture at various temperatures. The electrochemically active surface area (ECSA), determined from cyclic voltammetry, was used as the basis for a method to evaluate the performances of the two catalysts. Both CO stripping and the underpotential deposition of hydrogen were used to evaluate the electrochemical surface area. When the H2/CO gas mixture was used, there was a complex overlap of mechanisms, and therefore CO peak could not be used to evaluate the ECSA. Hence, the hydrogen peaks that resulted after the CO was removed from the Pt surface were used to evaluate the active surface area instead of the CO peaks. Results revealed that Pt-Ru/C was more tolerant to CO, since the overlapping reaction mechanism between H2 and CO was suppressed when Ru was introduced to the catalyst. SEM images of the catalysts before and after heat treatment indicated that particle agglomeration occurs upon exposure to high temperatures (>100 °C)
Wetting-Induced Polyelectrolyte Pore Bridging
Authors: Kalde Anna , Kamp Johannes , Evdochenko Elizaveta , Linkhorst John , Wessling Matthias
Published: August 2021

Active layers of ion separation membranes often consist of charged layers that retain ions based on electrostatic repulsion. Conventional fabrication of these layers, such as polyelectrolyte deposition, can in some cases lead to excess coating to prevent defects in the active layer. This excess deposition increases the overall membrane transport resistance. The study at hand presents a manufacturing procedure for controlled polyelectrolyte complexation in and on porous supports by support wetting control. Pre-wetting of the microfiltration membrane support, or even supports with larger pore sizes, leads to ternary phase boundaries of the support, the coating solution, and the pre-wetting agent. At these phase boundaries, polyelectrolytes can be complexated to form partially freestanding selective structures bridging the pores. This polyelectrolyte complex formation control allows the production of membranes with evenly distributed polyelectrolyte layers, providing (1) fewer coating steps needed for defect-free active layers, (2) larger support diameters that can be bridged, and (3) a precise position control of the formed polyelectrolyte multilayers. We further analyze the formed structures regarding their position, composition, and diffusion dialysis performance.
Traditional Chinese Medicine Extract Properties Incorporated Energy Analysis for Membrane Concentration Processes
Authors: Li Wanyu , Li Qiyuan , Guo Liwei , Liu Juyan , Wang Kai , Zhong Wenwei
Published: August 2021

This work focuses on the energy analysis of the membrane concentration systems that process traditional Chinese medicine extracts with dynamic properties incorporated, particularly for reverse osmosis (RO) and membrane distillation (MD) processes. The evaluation of process energy consumption was achieved by integrating the empirical properties correlations of Brix and other characteristics properties of the feed (e.g., density and heat capacity). The dynamic SEC analysis for RO process was largely dependent on the feed pressure, reported at 50 kWh/m3 at feed pressure of 0.9 MPa with less than 50% water removal. The occurrence of foaming at above 50% water removal caused discrepancies between the simulated flux results and the experimentally acquired results in RO, whereas the estimated dynamic SEC for MD process did not show a strong correlation with the temperatures selected in this study, ranging from 900 to 1000 kWh/m3. This approach can be adapted into the design and zoptimization for the concentration process of other herbal extracts by membrane technologies, allowing comprehensive understanding into the energy analysis in future study.
Bioinformatic Analysis of ABCA1 Gene Expression in Smoking and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Kotlyarov Stanislav , Kotlyarova Anna
Published: August 2021

Smoking is a key modifiable risk factor for developing the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). When smoking, many processes, including the reverse transport of cholesterol mediated by the ATP binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) protein are disrupted in the lungs. Changes in the cholesterol content in the lipid rafts of plasma membranes can modulate the function of transmembrane proteins localized in them. It is believed that this mechanism participates in increasing the inflammation in COPD. Methods: Bioinformatic analysis of datasets from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) was carried out. Gene expression data from datasets of alveolar macrophages and the epithelium of the respiratory tract in smokers and COPD patients compared with non-smokers were used for the analysis. To evaluate differentially expressed genes, bioinformatic analysis was performed in comparison groups using the limma package in R (v. 4.0.2), and the GEO2R and Phantasus tools (v. 1.11.0). Results: The conducted bioinformatic analysis showed changes in the expression of the ABCA1 gene associated with smoking. In the alveolar macrophages of smokers, the expression levels of ABCA1 were lower than in non-smokers. At the same time, in most of the airway epithelial datasets, gene expression did not show any difference between the groups of smokers and non-smokers. In addition, it was shown that the expression of ABCA1 in the epithelial cells of the trachea and large bronchi is higher than in small bronchi. Conclusions: The conducted bioinformatic analysis showed that smoking can influence the expression of the ABCA1 gene, thereby modulating lipid transport processes in macrophages, which are part of the mechanisms of inflammation development.
Metallic Nanoscaffolds as Osteogenic Promoters: Advances, Challenges and Scope
Authors: Ghosh Sougata , Webster Thomas Jay
Published: August 2021

Bone injuries and fractures are often associated with post-surgical failures, extended healing times, infection, a lack of return to a normal active lifestyle, and corrosion associated allergies. In this regard, this review presents a comprehensive report on advances in nanotechnology driven solutions for bone tissue engineering. The fabrication of metals such as copper, gold, platinum, palladium, silver, strontium, titanium, zinc oxide, and magnetic nanoparticles with tunable physico-chemical and opto-electronic properties for osteogenic scaffolds is discussed here in detail. Furthermore, the rational selection of a polymeric base such as chitosan, collagen, poly (L-lactide), hydroxyl-propyl-methyl cellulose, poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid, polyglucose-sorbitol-carboxymethy ether, polycaprolactone, natural rubber latex, and silk fibroin for scaffold preparation is also discussed. These advanced materials and fabrication strategies not only provide for appropriate mechanical strength but also render integrity, making them appealing for orthopedic applications. Further, such scaffolds can be functionalized with ligands or biomolecules such as hydroxyapatite, polypyrrole (PPy), magnesium, zinc dopants, and growth factors to stimulate osteogenic differentiation, mineralization, and neovascularization to aid in rapid healing. Future directions to co-incorporate bioceramics, biogenic nanoparticles, and fourth generation biomaterials to enhance biocompatibility, mechanical properties, and rapid recovery are also included in this review. Hence, the further development of such biomimetic metal-based nano-scaffolds at a lower cost with reduced risks and greater efficacy at regrowing bone can revolutionize the future of orthopedics.
Laser Irradiation for Enhancing Mass Transfer in the Solid Phase of Metallic Materials
Authors: Murzin Serguei P.
Published: August 2021

Possibilities of using laser irradiation to enhance mass transfer in the solid phase of metallic materials in order to form structures with improved physical and mechanical properties were reviewed. The features of the diffusion mass transfer in metals and alloys under shock exposure were specified. In this case, the rate of diffusion processes of mass transfer can be significantly increased. The conditions for intensification of mass transfer in metallic materials by pulse-periodic laser irradiation were determined and the synthesis of nanoporous and composite oxide nanomaterials was described. A significant increase of the diffusion coefficient in a metallic material, in comparison to plain exposure to laser beam heating, was identified. It could be attributed to the synergy of heat exposure and laser-induced vibrations, mainly in the range of sound frequencies, as a result of a pulse-periodic laser irradiation. The condition for intensifying mass transfer in the solid phase of selectively oxidable metallic materials was identified as a non-stationary stress-strain state caused by laser-induced sound waves. The exploitation of this synergy effect permitted the implementation of a novel approach for the creation of structures of nanomaterials. At the same time, a targeted influence on mass transfer and the accompanying relaxation processes make it possible to achieve an increase in the efficiency of methods for processing metals and alloys.
Practical Use of Hot-Forged-Type Ti-42Al-5Mn and Various Recent Improvements
Authors: Tetsui Toshimitsu
Published: August 2021

The use of a hot-forged TiAl alloy enables the fabrication of large parts that are difficult to manufacture by casting or isothermal forging. Ti-42Al-5Mn (at%) is the world’s first TiAl alloy in this category and has been used to manufacture practical large-scale structural defense components since around 2010. This paper discusses the developmental status and practical applications of this alloy. In addition, recent developments in process stabilization and improvements in material properties, which have been issues for the practical use of this TiAl alloy in the past, are also discussed.
Analysis and Optimization of Process Parameters in Abrasive Waterjet Contour Cutting of AISI 304L
Authors: Llanto Jennifer Milaor , Vafadar Ana , Aamir Muhammad , Tolouei-Rad Majid
Published: August 2021

Abrasive waterjet machining is applied in various industries for contour cutting of heat-sensitive and difficult-to-cut materials like austenitic stainless steel 304L, with the goal of ensuring high surface integrity and efficiency. In alignment with this manufacturing aspiration, experimental analysis and optimization were carried out on abrasive waterjet machining of austenitic stainless steel 304L with the objectives of minimizing surface roughness and maximizing material removal rate. In this machining process, process parameters are critical factors influencing contour cutting performance. Accordingly, Taguchi’s S/N ratio method has been used in this study for the optimization of process parameters. Further in this work, the impacts of input parameters are investigated, including waterjet pressure, abrasive mass flow rate, traverse speed and material thickness on material removal rate and surface roughness. The study reveals that an increasing level of waterjet pressure and abrasive mass flow rate achieved better surface integrity and higher material removal values. The average S/N ratio results indicate an optimum value of waterjet pressure at 300 MPa and abrasive mass flow rate of 500 g/min achieved minimum surface roughness and maximum material removal rate. It was also found that an optimized value of a traverse speed at 90 mm/min generates the lowest surface roughness and 150 mm/min produces the highest rate of material removed. Moreover, analysis of variance in the study showed that material thickness was the most influencing parameter on surface roughness and material removal rate, with a percentage contribution ranging 90.72–97.74% and 65.55–78.17%, respectively.
Leaching of Copper from Waste-Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) in Sulfate Medium Using Cupric Ion and Oxygen
Authors: Park Yujin , Eom Yuik , Yoo Kyoungkeun , Jha Manis Kumar
Published: August 2021

In the present paper, the leaching of copper from printed circuit boards (PCBs) using sulfuric acid with Cu2+ and O2 is proposed. The effects of various process parameters such as agitation speed, temperature, the type and the flow rate of gas, initial Cu2+ concentration, and pulp density were investigated to examine the dissolution behavior of Cu from PCBs in 1 mol/L sulfuric acid. The kinetic studies were performed using the obtained leaching data. The leaching rate of Cu from PCBs was found to be higher on addition of Cu2+ and O2 to the leachant in comparison with the addition of O2 or both Cu2+ and N2 in the leachant. The leaching efficiency of Cu was found to be increased with increasing agitation speed, temperature, O2 flow rate, and initial Cu2+ concentration and decreasing pulp density. The 96% of Cu leaching efficiency was obtained under the following conditions: sulfuric acid concentration, 1 mol/L; temperature, 90 °C; agitation speed, 600 rpm; pulp density, 1%; initial Cu2+ concentration, 10,000 mg/L; and O2 flow rate, 1000 cc/min. The leaching data and analyses indicate that the Cu leaching from PCBs followed the reaction-controlled model satisfactorily and determined that the activation energy was found to be 23.8 kJ/mol. Therefore, these results indicate that the sulfuric acid solution with Cu2+ and O2 as a mild leach medium without strong oxidants such as HNO3, H2O2, and Fe3+ is valid for Cu leaching from PCBs.
Correlation Modeling between Morphology and Compression Behavior of Closed-Cell Al Foams Based on X-ray Computed Tomography Observations
Authors: Costanza Girolamo , Giudice Fabio , Sili Andrea , Tata Maria Elisa
Published: August 2021

In the last decades, great attention has been focused on the characterization of cellular foams, because of their morphological peculiarities that allow for obtaining effective combinations of structural properties. A predictive analytical model for the compressive behavior of closed-cell Al foams, based on the correlation between the morphology of the cellular structure and its mechanical response, was developed. The cells’ morphology of cylindrical specimens was investigated at different steps of compression by X-ray computed tomography, in order to detect the collapse evolution. The structure, typically inhomogeneous at local level, was represented by developing a global virtual model consisting of homogeneous cells ordered in space, that was fitted on the experimentally detected structure at each deformation step. As a result, the main parameters characterizing the two-dimensional cells morphology (equivalent diameter, circularity), processed by the model, allowed to simulate the whole compression stress–strain curve by enveloping those obtained for each step. The model, fitted on the previous foam, was validated by comparing the simulated stress–strain curve and the corresponding experimental one, detected for similar foams obtained by different powder compositions. The effectiveness in terms of an accurate prediction of the compression response up to the final densification regime has been confirmed.
Influence of Cooling Conditions on Long-Period Stacking-Ordered Phase Evolution and Corrosion Behavior of As-Cast Resoloy®
Authors: Ahlers Sandra , Bittner Benjamin , Maier Petra
Published: August 2021

This study focuses on the influence of cooling conditions on the long-period stacking-ordered (LPSO) phase evolution and corrosion behavior of as-cast Resoloy®, a bioresorbable Mg-Dy-based alloy. Metallographic and corrosive tests are used to monitor the changes in the properties of this material. The corrosion behavior is investigated by potentiodynamic polarisation. Permanent mold chill casted ingots are wire-eroded to cylindrical platelets. The eroded platelets are solution heat treated over three different time periods. Cooling is performed in two different ways: quenching in water and cooling in air at ambient temperature. The as-cast condition shows a homogeneous fine-grained microstructure. Grains become larger with increasing heat treatment duration and slow cooling leads to additional grain growth. Furthermore, cooling in air leads to faint lamellar LPSO structures, which develop from bulk LPSO structures during the cooling process. The corrosion rate of the cooled platelets increases with increasing grain size. When the lamellar LPSO structures are uniformly distributed over the entire grain, the corrosion starts at the matrix between the LPSO lamellae and stops at them. Heat treatment at 500 °C reduces the normal potential difference between matrix and secondary phase and thus weakens the galvanic corrosion.
On Modelling Parasitic Solidification Due to Heat Loss at Submerged Entry Nozzle Region of Continuous Casting Mold
Authors: Vakhrushev Alexander , Kharicha Abdellah , Wu Menghuai , Ludwig Andreas , Tang Yong , Hackl Gernot , Nitzl Gerald , Watzinger Josef , Bohacek Jan
Published: August 2021

Continuous casting (CC) is one of the most important processes of steel production; it features a high production rate and close to the net shape. The quality improvement of final CC products is an important goal of scientific research. One of the defining issues of this goal is the stability of the casting process. The clogging of submerged entry nozzles (SENs) typically results in asymmetric mold flow, uneven solidification, meniscus fluctuations, and possible slag entrapment. Analyses of retained SENs have evidenced the solidification of entrapped melt inside clog material. The experimental study of these phenomena has significant difficulties that make numerical simulation a perfect investigation tool. In the present study, verified 2D simulations were performed with an advanced multi-material model based on a newly presented single mesh approach for the liquid and solid regions. Implemented as an in-house code using the OpenFOAM finite volume method libraries, it aggregated the liquid melt flow, solidification of the steel, and heat transfer through the refractory SENs, copper mold plates, and the slag layer, including its convection. The introduced novel technique dynamically couples the momentum at the steel/slag interface without complex multi-phase interface tracking. The following scenarios were studied: (i) SEN with proper fiber insulation, (ii) partial damage of SEN insulation, and (iii) complete damage of SEN insulation. A uniform 12 mm clog layer with 45% entrapped liquid steel was additionally considered. The simulations showed that parasitic solidification occurred inside an SEN bore with partially or completely absent insulation. SEN clogging was found to promote the solidification of the entrapped melt; without SEN insulation, it could overgrow the clogged region. The jet flow was shown to be accelerated due to the combined effect of the clogging and parasitic solidification; simultaneously, the superheat transport was impaired inside the mold cavity.
Development of an Inner Finishing Method for Brass Cone Pipe via a Movable Manual Electromagnet in a Magnetic Abrasive Finishing Process
Authors: Kim Jeong Su , Chanchamnan Sieb , Heng Lida , Kim Guenil , Oh Sung-Hoon , Mun Sang Don
Published: August 2021

This paper describes the development of a movable manual electromagnet with an adjustable flux density to improve the inner surface smoothness of a cone pipe using a magnetic abrasive finishing process. This method is fabricated to reduce further the roughness of the internal surface of the conic shape, which was modeled as an electromagnet oscillating in the work zone with a ball roller. Statistically significant improvement in the process was achieved using unbounded magnetic abrasive, light oil, flux density, controlled feed rate, and constant rotational speed in the experiment. The ball transfer equipped on the top of the electromagnet pole plays an essential role in spinning over the outer cone pipe during the experiment and helps reduce friction while the workpiece fluctuates. Furthermore, the flux density can be changed to control the magnetic force and select the most acceptable option. In addition, a procedure for finishing has been designed for finishing a cone pipe, and we sought to understand how the flux density affects the material in removal exterior roughness. As a result, the flux density is clarified, and a higher flux density achieves excellent removal of surface roughness of the inner deformed pipe from 1.68 μm to 0.39 μm within 24 min.
Development of an Aluminum-Based Hybrid Billet Material for the Process-Integrated Foaming of Hollow Co-Extrusions
Authors: Schäfke Florian Patrick , Thürer Susanne Elisabeth , Maier Hans Jürgen , Klose Christian
Published: August 2021

Metal foams are attractive for lightweight construction in the automotive sector since they provide high-energy absorption and good damping properties, which is crucial, e.g., for crash structures. Currently, however, foams are produced separately and then pasted into the components. Consequently, the overall mechanical properties depend significantly on the quality of the adhesive bond between the foam and the structural component. A new process route for the manufacture of hybrid foamed hollow aluminum profiles is proposed. In this approach, a foamable precursor material is directly integrated into the extrusion process of the hollow structural profile. To this end, special low-melting alloys were developed in this study to enable foaming inside the aluminum profile. The melting intervals of these alloys were examined using differential scanning calorimetry. One of the promising AlZnSi alloys was atomized, mixed with a foaming agent and then compacted into semi-finished products for subsequent co-extrusion. The foaming behavior, which was investigated by means of X-ray microscopy, is shown to depend primarily on the mass fraction of the foaming agent as well as the heat treatment parameters. The results demonstrate that both the melting interval and the foaming behavior of AlZn22Si6 make this particular alloy a suitable candidate for the desired process chain.
Influence of Electrolyte Impurities from E-Waste Electrorefining on Copper Extraction Recovery
Authors: Djokić Jovana , Radovanović Dragana , Nikolovski Zlatko , Andjić Zoran , Kamberović Željko
Published: August 2021

In order to reflect possible issues in future sole e-waste processing, an electrolyte of complex chemical composition reflecting system of sole e-waste processing was obtained by following a specially designed pyro-electrometallurgical method. The obtained non-standard electrolyte was further used for the purpose of comprehensive metal interference evaluation on the copper solvent extraction (SX) process. Optimization of the process included a variation of several process parameters, allowing determination of the effect of the most abundant and potentially the most influential impurities (Ni, Sn, Fe, and Zn) and 14 other trace elements. Moreover, comparing three commercial extractants of different active chelating groups, it was determined that branched aldoxime reagent is favorable for Cu extraction from the chemically complex system, as can be expected in future e-waste recycling. The results of this study showed that, under optimal conditions of 20 vol.% extractant concentration, feed pH 1.5, O/A ratio 3, and 10-min phase contact time, 88.1% of one stage Cu extraction was achieved. Co-extraction of the Fe, Zn, Ni, and Sn was under 8%, while Pb and trace elements were negligible. Optimal conditions (H2SO4 180 g/L, O/A = 2, and contact time 5 min) enabled 95.3% Cu stripping and under 6% of the most influential impurities. In addition, an impurity monitoring and distribution methodology enabled a better understanding and design of the process for the more efficient valorization of metals from e-waste.
Reproducible Lipid Alterations in Patient-Derived Breast Cancer Xenograft FFPE Tissue Identified with MALDI MSI for Pre-Clinical and Clinical Application
Authors: Denti Vanna , Andersen Maria K. , Smith Andrew , Bofin Anna Mary , Nordborg Anna , Magni Fulvio , Moestue Siver Andreas , Giampà Marco
Published: August 2021

The association between lipid metabolism and long-term outcomes is relevant for tumor diagnosis and therapy. Archival material such as formalin-fixed and paraffin embedded (FFPE) tissues is a highly valuable resource for this aim as it is linked to long-term clinical follow-up. Therefore, there is a need to develop robust methodologies able to detect lipids in FFPE material and correlate them with clinical outcomes. In this work, lipidic alterations were investigated in patient-derived xenograft of breast cancer by using a matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI MSI) based workflow that included antigen retrieval as a sample preparation step. We evaluated technical reproducibility, spatial metabolic differentiation within tissue compartments, and treatment response induced by a glutaminase inhibitor (CB-839). This protocol shows a good inter-day robustness (CV = 26 ± 12%). Several lipids could reliably distinguish necrotic and tumor regions across the technical replicates. Moreover, this protocol identified distinct alterations in the tissue lipidome of xenograft treated with glutaminase inhibitors. In conclusion, lipidic alterations in FFPE tissue of breast cancer xenograft observed in this study are a step-forward to a robust and reproducible MALDI-MSI based workflow for pre-clinical and clinical applications.
Salivary Metabolomics for Diagnosis and Monitoring Diseases: Challenges and Possibilities
Authors: Hyvärinen Eelis , Savolainen Minttu , Mikkonen Jopi J. W. , Kullaa Arja M.
Published: August 2021

Saliva is a useful biological fluid and a valuable source of biological information. Saliva contains many of the same components that can be found in blood or serum, but the components of interest tend to be at a lower concentration in saliva, and their analysis demands more sensitive techniques. Metabolomics is starting to emerge as a viable method for assessing the salivary metabolites which are generated by the biochemical processes in elucidating the pathways underlying different oral and systemic diseases. In oral diseases, salivary metabolomics has concentrated on periodontitis and oral cancer. Salivary metabolites of systemic diseases have been investigated mostly in the early diagnosis of different cancer, but also neurodegenerative diseases. This mini-review article aims to highlight the challenges and possibilities of salivary metabolomics from a clinical viewpoint. Furthermore, applications of the salivary metabolic profile in diagnosis and prognosis, monitoring the treatment success, and planning of personalized treatment of oral and systemic diseases are discussed.
Editorial for the Special Issue on Security and Sensing Devices for Healthcare Technologies
Authors: Shah Syed Aziz , Ramzan Naeem , Imran Muhammad Ali , Abbasi Qammer Hussain
Published: August 2021

Micro-/nano-scaled structures, materials, and devices enable the continuous monitoring of human physical activities and behaviors, as well as physiological and biochemical parameters during daily life [...]
Scratch Morphology Transformation: An Alternative Method of Scratch Processing on Optical Surface
Authors: Zhou Guangqi , Tian Ye , Shi Feng , Song Ci , Tie Guipeng , Liu Shijie , Zhou Gang , Shao Jianda , Wu Zhouling
Published: August 2021

The scratches on an optical surface can worsen the performance of elements. The normal process method is removing scratches entirely. However, it is a tough and high-cost requirement of removing extremely deep scratches and maintaining all the other excellent indicators at the same time. As the alternative of removing, we propose the method of scratch morphology transformation to diminish the drawbacks induced by scratches. We measure the morphology of scratches, establish the transformation models and transform them to the needed shape. In engineering applications, transformation can solve scratch drawbacks or limitations in an efficient and effective way. Then, residual scratches become acceptable. The transformation can also be amalgamated into the error figuring processes. Typical scratch transforming examples are experimented and AFM measurement is conducted. We explore the rule of scratch morphology transformation by two typical fabrication means: magnetorheological finishing (MRF) and HF etching. This morphology transforming method is an economical alternative for current defect-free fabrication. That will significantly decrease fabrication time, cost and risk, while the optical quality maintain.
Effect of Sputtering Oxygen Partial Pressure on the Praseodymium-Doped InZnO Thin Film Transistor Using Microwave Photoconductivity Decay Method
Authors: Tang Huansong , Lu Kuankuan , Xu Zhuohui , Ning Honglong , Yao Dengming , Fu Xiao , Yang Huiyun , Luo Dongxiang , Yao Rihui , Peng Junbiao
Published: August 2021

The praseodymium-doped indium-zinc-oxide (PrIZO) thin film transistor (TFT) shows broad application prospects in the new generation of display technologies due to its high performance and high stability. However, traditional device performance evaluation methods need to be carried out after the end of the entire preparation process, which leads to the high-performance device preparation process that takes a lot of time and costs. Therefore, there is a lack of effective methods to optimize the device preparation process. In this paper, the effect of sputtering oxygen partial pressure on the properties of PrIZO thin film was studied, and the quality of PrIZO thin film was quickly evaluated by the microwave photoconductivity decay (µ-PCD) method. The μ-PCD results show that as the oxygen partial pressure increases, the peak first increases and then decreases, while the D value shows the opposite trend. The quality of PrIZO thin film prepared under 10% oxygen partial pressure is optimal due to its low localized defect states. The electric performance of PrIZO TFTs prepared under different oxygen partial pressures is consistent with the μ-PCD results. The optimal PrIZO TFT prepared under 10% oxygen partial pressure exhibits good electric performance with a threshold voltage (Vth) of 1.9 V, a mobility (µsat) of 24.4 cm2·V−1·s−1, an Ion/Ioff ratio of 2.03 × 107, and a subthreshold swing (SS) of 0.14 V·dec−1.
Time-Domain Dynamic Characteristics Analysis and Experimental Research of Tri-Stable Piezoelectric Energy Harvester
Authors: Zhang Xuhui , Chen Luyang , Chen Xiaoyu , Zhu Fulin , Guo Yan
Published: August 2021

In order to explore the dynamic characteristics of the linear-arch beam tri-stable piezoelectric energy harvester (TPEH), a magnetic force model was established by the magnetic dipole method, and the linear-arch composite beam nonlinear restoring force model was obtained through experiments. Based on the Euler–Bernoulli beam theory, a system dynamic model is established, and the influence of the horizontal distance, vertical distance and excitation acceleration of magnets on the dynamic characteristics of the system is simulated and analyzed. Moreover, the correctness of the theoretical results is verified by experiments. The results show that the system can be mono-stable, bi-stable and tri-stable by adjusting the horizontal or vertical spacing of the magnets under proper excitation. The potential well of the system in the tri-stable state is shallow, and it is easier to achieve a large-amplitude response. Increasing the excitation level is beneficial for the large-amplitude response of the system. This study provides theoretical guidance for the design of linear-arch beam TPEH.
PEI-Functionalized Carbon Nanotube Thin Film Sensor for CO2 Gas Detection at Room Temperature
Authors: Han Maeum , Jung Soonyoung , Lee Yeonsu , Jung Daewoong , Kong Seong Ho
Published: August 2021

In this study, a polyethyleneimine (PEI)-functionalized carbon nanotube (CNT) sensor was fabricated for carbon dioxide detection at room temperature. Uniform CNT thin films prepared using a filtration method were used as resistive networks. PEI, which contains amino groups, can effectively react with CO2 gas by forming carbamates at room temperatures. The morphology of the sensor was observed, and the properties were analyzed by scanning electron microscope (SEM), Raman spectroscopy, and fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. When exposed to CO2 gas, the fabricated sensor exhibited better sensitivity than the pristine CNT sensor at room temperature. Both the repeatability and selectivity of the sensor were studied.
Correction: Ou et al. Characteristic Microbiomes Correlate with Polyphosphate Accumulation of Marine Sponges in South China Sea Areas. Microorganisms 2020, 8, 63
Authors: Ou Huilong , Li Mingyu , Wu Shufei , Jia Linli , Hill Russell T. , Zhao Jing
Published: August 2021

The authors wish to make the following corrections to this paper [...]
The Rhizobial Microbiome from the Tropical Savannah Zones in Northern Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Gnangui Sara Laetitia Elphège , Fossou Romain Kouakou , Ebou Anicet , Amon Chiguié Estelle Raïssa , Koua Dominique Kadio , Kouadjo Claude Ghislaine Zaka , Cowan Don A. , Zézé Adolphe
Published: August 2021

Over the past decade, many projects have been initiated worldwide to decipher the composition and function of the soil microbiome, including the African Soil Microbiome (AfSM) project that aims at providing new insights into the presence and distribution of key groups of soil bacteria from across the African continent. In this national study, carried out under the auspices of the AfSM project, we assessed the taxonomy, diversity and distribution of rhizobial genera in soils from the tropical savannah zones in Northern Côte d’Ivoire. Genomic DNA extracted from seven sampled soils was analyzed by sequencing the V4-V5 variable region of the 16S rDNA using Illumina’s MiSeq platform. Subsequent bioinformatic and phylogenetic analyses showed that these soils harbored 12 out of 18 genera of Proteobacteria harboring rhizobia species validly published to date and revealed for the first time that the Bradyrhizobium genus dominates in tropical savannah soils, together with Microvirga and Paraburkholderia. In silico comparisons of different 16S rRNA gene variable regions suggested that the V5-V7 region could be suitable for differentiating rhizobia at the genus level, possibly replacing the use of the V4-V5 region. These data could serve as indicators for future rhizobial microbiome explorations and for land-use decision-making.