bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hot Deformation Behavior and Strain-Compensated Constitutive Equation of Nano-Sized SiC Particle-Reinforced Al-Si Matrix Composites
Authors: Wang Zhen , Wang Aiqin , Xie Jingpei , Liu Pei
Published: April 2020

The hot deformation behavior of nano-SiCp/Al-Si composites was studied by isothermal compression tests at 470–530 °C and strain rates of 0.01–5 s−1. A strain-compensation constitutive model was developed with a Z parameter and an Arrhenius function, and its accuracy was verified by error analysis. The results show that the flow stress of the composites decreased with the increase in deformation temperature and the decrease in strain rate. The average activation energy for nano-SiC particle-reinforced Al-Si matrix composites was 277 kJ/mol, which was larger than the activation energy for self-diffusion of pure aluminum. The average relative error was calculated as 2.88%, indicating the strain-compensated constitutive equation could accurately predict the hot deformation behavior of nano-SiCp/Al-Si composites.
Effect of Boron in a Hierarchical Nanoporous Layer Formation on Silicate Glass
Authors: Ito Takumi , Tabata Erika , Ushioda Yuki , Fujima Takuya
Published: April 2020

A hierarchical nanoporous layer (HNL) can be formed on the silicate glass surface by simple alkali etching. Though it reportedly exhibits various useful functions, such as superhydrophilicity, optical anti-reflection, and material impregnation, the principle of its formation still remains unclear. In this study, HNL formation behavior was experimentally investigated while using scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) to clarify the role of boron contained in glass. As a result, it was found that HNL formation was significantly promoted by boron, which was rapidly eluted prior to alkali and alkaline earth metals. This suggests that boron, which forms the skeleton structure of glass together with Si and O, elutes to partially decompose the skeleton, and extends the elution route for HNL formation.
The Role of Distribution Forms of Fe–Cr–C Cladding Layer in the Impact Abrasive Wear Performance of Hadfield Steel
Authors: Pan Zhang , Dong Xuanpu , Cao Huatang , Huang Qiwen
Published: April 2020

To investigate the role of different distribution forms of Fe–Cr–C cladding layer in the impact abrasive wear performance of Hadfield steel, the over-lapped Fe–Cr–C cladding layer and dot-shaped Fe–Cr–C cladding layer were deposited, respectively, by plasma transferred arc (PTA) cladding on Hadfield steel. The microstructure, microhardness and impact abrasive wear performance of the two cladding layers under the impact of glass sand, granite and quartz sand were investigated. The results showed that both microstructures of the cladding layers were hypoeutectic Fe–Cr–C microstructures. The average microhardness of the over-lapped cladding layer and dot-shaped cladding layer was around 560 HV0.2 and 750 HV0.2, respectively. The over-lapped Fe–Cr–C cladding layer could only improve the impact abrasive wear resistance of the Hadfield steel under the wear condition of the glass sand. Meanwhile, the dot-shaped Fe–Cr–C cladding layer could improve the impact abrasive wear resistance of the Hadfield steel under all the three kinds of the abrasives because of the overall strengthening effect of its convex shape and the hypoeutectic FeCrC microstructure.
Two-Dimensional Zeolite Materials: Structural and Acidity Properties
Authors: Schulman Emily , Wu Wei , Liu Dongxia
Published: April 2020

Zeolites are generally defined as three-dimensional (3D) crystalline microporous aluminosilicates in which silicon (Si4+) and aluminum (Al3+) are coordinated tetrahedrally with oxygen to form large negative lattices and consequent Brønsted acidity. Two-dimensional (2D) zeolite nanosheets with single-unit-cell or near single-unit-cell thickness (~2–3 nm) represent an emerging type of zeolite material. The extremely thin slices of crystals in 2D zeolites produce high external surface areas (up to 50% of total surface area compared to ~2% in micron-sized 3D zeolite) and expose most of their active sites on external surfaces, enabling beneficial effects for the adsorption and reaction performance for processing bulky molecules. This review summarizes the structural properties of 2D layered precursors and 2D zeolite derivatives, as well as the acidity properties of 2D zeolite derivative structures, especially in connection to their 3D conventional zeolite analogues’ structural and compositional properties. The timeline of the synthesis and recognition of 2D zeolites, as well as the structure and composition properties of each 2D zeolite, are discussed initially. The qualitative and quantitative measurements on the acid site type, strength, and accessibility of 2D zeolites are then presented. Future research and development directions to advance understanding of 2D zeolite materials are also discussed.
A Procedure for Analyzing Mandible Roto-Translation Induced by Mandibular Advancement Devices
Authors: Bruno Giovanni , De Stefani Alberto , Conte Edoardo , Caragiuli Manila , Mandolini Marco , Landi Daniele , Gracco Antonio
Published: April 2020

Background: Sleep-Related Breathing Disorders are characterized by repeated episodes of complete or partial obstruction of the upper airway during sleep. Mandibular advancement devices represent a non-invasive treatment in reducing the number of respiratory events and in decreasing symptoms. The advancement extent of these devices is responsible for the mandibular roto-translation and its effects on the temporomandibular joint. Methods: This study defined a systematic method to assess the mandible roto translation that is caused by MADs according to a scan-to-CAD approach. Starting from a closed mouth position and simulating the oral appliance at different settings it was possible to define a local reference system that is useful for the evaluation of the mandibular roto-translation. This latter was then applied to evaluate the movements of the condyle and the mandibular dental arch. Results: MAD1 resulted in a reduced mouth opening and protrusion, while MAD2 enabled a higher degree of motion of the mandible useful for patients who need an important protrusion. Conclusions: The two devices present different dynamics. Results that are achievable employing this method can be directly used by practitioners in comparing MADs, as well as by researchers in evaluating MADs effects.
Characteristics of Recycled Polypropylene Fibers as an Addition to Concrete Fabrication Based on Portland Cement
Authors: Małek Marcin , Jackowski Mateusz , Łasica Waldemar , Kadela Marta
Published: April 2020

High-performance concrete has low tensile strength and brittle failure. In order to improve these properties of unreinforced concrete, the effects of adding recycled polypropylene fibers on the mechanical properties of concrete were investigated. The polypropylene fibers used were made from recycled plastic packaging for environmental reasons (long degradation time). The compressive, flexural and split tensile strengths after 1, 7, 14 and 28 days were tested. Moreover, the initial and final binding times were determined. This experimental work has included three different contents (0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 wt.% of cement) for two types of recycled polypropylene fibers. The addition of fibers improves the properties of concrete. The highest values of mechanical properties were obtained for concrete with 1.0% of polypropylene fibers for each type of fiber. The obtained effect of an increase in mechanical properties with the addition of recycled fibers compared to unreinforced concrete is unexpected and unparalleled for polypropylene fiber-reinforced concrete (69.7% and 39.4% increase in compressive strength for green polypropylene fiber (PPG) and white polypropylene fiber (PPW) respectively, 276.0% and 162.4% increase in flexural strength for PPG and PPW respectively, and 269.4% and 254.2% increase in split tensile strength for PPG and PPW respectively).
High-Performance Photocatalytic Cementitious Materials Containing Synthetic Fibers and Shrinkage-Reducing Admixture
Authors: Park Jung-Jun , Kim Soonho , Shin Wonsik , Choi Hong-Joon , Park Gi-Joon , Yoo Doo-Yeol
Published: April 2020

This study aims to examine the mechanical, shrinkage and chemical properties of photocatalytic cementitious materials containing synthetic fibers and a shrinkage-reducing admixture (SRA). Two types of titanium dioxide (TiO2) powders and white Portland cement were considered along with ordinary Portland cement (OPC) as a control. Two types of synthetic fibers, i.e., glass and polyethylene (PE), and an SRA with contents varying from 0% to 3% were also considered. Using the TiO2 powders and the white Portland cement was effective in reducing the nitrogen oxides (NOx) concentration in cement composites. The use of PE fibers was more effective than glass fibers in terms of the mechanical properties, i.e., the compressive strength and tensile performance. With the addition of TiO2 powders and SRA or the replacement of OPC with white cement, the mechanical properties of the cement mortar generally deteriorated. The total shrinkage of the mortar could be reduced by incorporating the fibers at volume fractions greater than 1%, and the glass fiber was more effective than the PE fiber in this regard. The TiO2 powders had no significant impact on the shrinkage reduction of the cement mortar, whereas the SRA and the white Portland cement effectively reduced shrinkage. The addition of 3% SRA decreased the total shrinkage by 43%, while the replacement of the OPC with white cement resulted in a 20% reduction in the shrinkage.
Experimental Investigation on the Mechanical Properties of Self-Compacting Concrete under Uniaxial and Triaxial Stress
Authors: Li Hongbo , Yin Jianguang , Yan Pengfei , Sun Hao , Wan Qingqing
Published: April 2020

To explore the influence of fly ash (FA) and silica fume (SF) on the mechanical properties of self-compacting concrete (SCC) under uniaxial and triaxial, the compressive strength test, splitting strength test, ultrasonic testing test, and triaxial test were performed in this paper. The results show that the 3 days compressive strength and splitting strength of SCC decreased with the increase of FA substitution rate. The 28 days, 56 days, and 91 days compressive strength and splitting strength of SCC increased first and then decreased with the increase of FA substitution rate. The peak stress and peak strain of SCC gradually increased with the increase of confining pressure. The peak stress and strain of SCC increased first and then decreased with the increase of FA substitution rate. Moreover, the relationship models between compressive strength and splitting strength, between compressive strength and amplitude, between peak stress, peak strain and confining pressure under different FA substitution rates were proposed. As a conclusion, the addition of SF can increase the strength of SCC obviously. Under uniaxial stress, SCC failure mode is splitting failure, under triaxial stress, SCC failure mode is shear failure. Based on the Mohr-Coulomb strength theory, the failure criterion of SCC with FA and SF was discussed.
Composite Heat Sink Material for Superconducting Tape in Fault Current Limiter Applications
Authors: Pekarčíková Marcela , Mišík Jozef , Drienovský Marian , Krajčovič Jozef , Vojenčiak Michal , Búran Marek , Mošať Marek , Húlan Tomáš , Skarba Michal , Cuninková Eva , Gömöry Fedor
Published: April 2020

We enhanced the performance of superconducting tapes during quenching by coating the tapes with various composites, with regards to the application of such coated systems in superconducting fault current limiters. In composition of the coating, we varied the type of epoxy matrix, the content of ceramic filler particles and the use of reinforcement in order to optimize the thermal and the mechanical stability of the coated tapes. By this way modified superconducting tapes were able to reduce the maximum temperature 170 °C of not modified superconducting tape to 55 °C during the quench with electric field up to 130 V m−1.
Impact of Nisin-Producing Strains of Lactococcus lactis on the Contents of Bioactive Dipeptides, Free Amino Acids, and Biogenic Amines in Dutch-Type Cheese Models
Authors: Garbowska Monika , Pluta Antoni , Berthold-Pluta Anna
Published: April 2020

The goal of this study was to determine changes in contents of free amino acids, biogenic amines, and bioactive dipeptides (anserine and L-carnosine) in cheese models produced with the addition of nisin-producing strains of Lactococcus lactis over their ripening period. After 5 weeks of ripening, contents of total biogenic amines in the cheese models with the addition of L. lactis strains were lower than in the control cheese model. The cheese models examined differed significantly in contents of free amino acids through the ripening period. Individual free amino acids, such as ornithine, were found in some of the cheese models, which is indicative of their specific microbial activities. Both anserine and L-carnosine were detected in all variants of the cheese models. After 5-week ripening, the highest total content of bioactive dipeptides was determined in the cheese models produced with the nisin-producing culture of L. lactis 11454 (142.15 mg∙kg−1).
Azaphilones from the Red Sea Fungus Aspergillus falconensis
Authors: El-Kashef Dina H. , Youssef Fadia S. , Hartmann Rudolf , Knedel Tim-Oliver , Janiak Christoph , Lin Wenhan , Reimche Irene , Teusch Nicole , Liu Zhen , Proksch Peter
Published: April 2020

The marine-derived fungus Aspergillus falconensis, isolated from sediment collected from the Canyon at Dahab, Red Sea, yielded two new chlorinated azaphilones, falconensins O and P (1 and 2) in addition to four known azaphilone derivatives (3−6) following fermentation of the fungus on solid rice medium containing 3.5% NaCl. Replacing NaCl with 3.5% NaBr induced accumulation of three additional new azaphilones, falconensins Q−S (7−9) including two brominated derivatives (7 and 8) together with three known analogues (10−12). The structures of the new compounds were elucidated by 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy and HRESIMS data as well as by comparison with the literature. The absolute configuration of the azaphilone derivatives was established based on single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis of 5, comparison of NMR data and optical rotations as well as on biogenetic considerations. Compounds 1, 3−9, and 11 showed NF-κB inhibitory activity against the triple negative breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231 with IC50 values ranging from 11.9 to 72.0 µM.
Cytotoxic Activity of Aplykurodin A Isolated From Aplysia kurodai against AXIN1-Mutated Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells by Promoting Oncogenic β-Catenin Degradation
Authors: Lee Jaehoo , Zhou Wei , Na MinKyun , Oh Sangtaek
Published: April 2020

Dysregulation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway is involved in the development of human hepatocellular carcinoma and has thus emerged as a therapeutic target for this malignant tumor. In this study, we employed sensitive cell-based assays to identify aplykurodin A isolated from Aplysia kurodai as an antagonist of Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Aplykurodin A inhibited β-catenin responsive transcription, which was stimulated by a Wnt3a-conditioned medium or a glycogen synthase kinase 3β inhibitor by accelerating intracellular β-catenin degradation. Aplykurodin A downregulated the level of oncogenic β-catenin and decreased the expression of β-catenin-dependent gene, leading to inhibition of human hepatoma Hep3B and SNU475 cell proliferation. Moreover, apoptosis and autophagy were elicited by aplykurodin A, as indicated by an increase the number of Annexin V-FITC-stained cells and the formation of microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 puncta, respectively, in Hep3B and SNU475 cells. Our findings suggest that aplykurodin A provides a novel therapeutic strategy for human hepatocellular carcinoma via stimulation of oncogenic β-catenin degradation.
Extraction of Rare Earth Metal Ions with an Undiluted Hydrophobic Pseudoprotic Ionic Liquid
Authors: Matsumoto Michiaki , Yamaguchi Takuya , Tahara Yoshiro
Published: April 2020

Recovering and concentrating rare earth metals (Nd and Dy) from waste permanent magnets rather than discarding them into the environment without pretreatment is critical for metal recycling and environmental responsibility. In this work, we used an undiluted hydrophobic pseudoprotic ionic liquid composed of trioctylamine and decanoic acid as an extractant to separate rare earth metals from aqueous media with a solvent extraction technique. This ionic liquid proved to be excellent with low viscosity and extractability reaching 100% for Nd and Dy in the presence of salts like sodium chloride and sodium nitrate. In acidic media, extractability decreased with increasing acid concentrations. Under all our experimental conditions, the rare earth metals (Nd and Dy) were found to be preferentially extracted compared to nickel with the distribution ratios of Dy higher than those of Nd.
Metallurgical Effects of Niobium in Dual Phase Steel
Authors: Mohrbacher Hardy , Yang Jer-Ren , Chen Yu-Wen , Rehrl Johannes , Hebesberger Thomas
Published: April 2020

Dual phase (DP) steels are widely applied in today’s automotive body design. The favorable combination of strength and ductility in such steels is in first place related to the share of ferrite and martensite. The pronounced work hardening behavior prevents localized thinning and allows excellent stretch forming. Niobium microalloying was originally introduced to dual phase steel for improving bendability by refining the microstructure. More recently developed “high ductility” (HD) DP steel variants provide increased drawability aided by a small share of austenite retained in the microstructure. In this variant niobium microalloying produces grain refinement and produces a dispersion of nanometer-sized carbide precipitates in the steel matrix which additionally contributes to strength. This study investigates the microstructural evolution and progress of niobium precipitation during industrial processing of high-ductility DP 980. The observations are interpreted considering the solubility and precipitation kinetics of niobium. The influences of niobium on microstructural characteristics and its contributions to strength and formability are discussed.
Miniature Broadband NIR Spectrometer Based on FR4 Electromagnetic Scanning Micro-Grating
Authors: Huang Liangkun , Wen Quan , Huang Jian , Yu Fan , Lei Hongjie , Wen Zhiyu
Published: April 2020

This paper presents a miniaturized, broadband near-infrared (NIR) spectrometer with a flame-retardant 4 (FR4)-based scanning micrograte. A 90° off-axis parabolic mirror and a crossed Czerny–Turner structure were used for creating an astigmatism-free optical system design. The optical system of the spectrometer consists of a 90° off-axis parabolic mirror, an FR4-based scanning micrograte, and a two-color indium gallium arsenide (InGaAs) diode with a crossed Czerny–Turner structure optical design. We used a wide exit slit and an off-axis parabolic mirror with a short focal length to improve the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the full spectrum. We enabled a miniaturized design for the spectrometer by utilizing a novel FR4 micrograte for spectral dispersion and spatial scanning. The spectrometer can detect the full near-infrared spectrum while only using a two-color InGaAs diode, and thus, the grating scanning angle of this spectrometer is small when compared to a dual-detector-based spectrometer. In addition, the angle signal can be obtained through an angle sensor, which is integrated into the scanning micrograte. The real-time angle signal is used to form a closed-loop control over the scanning micrograte and calibrate the spectral signal. Finally, a series of tests was performed. The experimental results showed that the spectrometer has a working wavelength range of 800–2500 nm. The resolution is 10 nm at a wavelength range of 800–1650 nm and 15 nm at a wavelength range of 1650–2500 nm. Similarly, the stability of these two wavelength ranges is better than ±1 nm and ±2 nm, respectively. The spectrometer’s volume is 80 × 75 × 65 mm3 and its weight is 0.5 kg. The maximum spectral fluctuation does not exceed 1.5% and the signal-to-noise ratio is 284 after only one instance of averaging.
Microfluidic Chamber Design for Controlled Droplet Expansion and Coalescence
Authors: Kielpinski Mark , Walther Oliver , Cao Jialan , Henkel Thomas , Köhler J. Michael , Groß G. Alexander
Published: April 2020

The defined formation and expansion of droplets are essential operations for droplet-based screening assays. The volumetric expansion of droplets causes a dilution of the ingredients. Dilution is required for the generation of concentration graduation which is mandatory for many different assay protocols. Here, we describe the design of a microfluidic operation unit based on a bypassed chamber and its operation modes. The different operation modes enable the defined formation of sub-µL droplets on the one hand and the expansion of low nL to sub-µL droplets by controlled coalescence on the other. In this way the chamber acts as fluidic interface between two fluidic network parts dimensioned for different droplet volumes. Hence, channel confined droplets of about 30–40 nL from the first network part were expanded to cannel confined droplets of about 500 to about 2500 nL in the second network part. Four different operation modes were realized: (a) flow rate independent droplet formation in a self-controlled way caused by the bypassed chamber design, (b) single droplet expansion mode, (c) multiple droplet expansion mode, and (d) multiple droplet coalescence mode. The last mode was used for the automated coalescence of 12 droplets of about 40 nL volume to produce a highly ordered output sequence with individual droplet volumes of about 500 nL volume. The experimental investigation confirmed a high tolerance of the developed chamber against the variation of key parameters of the dispersed-phase like salt content, pH value and fluid viscosity. The presented fluidic chamber provides a solution for the problem of bridging different droplet volumes in a fluidic network.
Standing Air Bubble-Based Micro-Hydraulic Capacitors for Flow Stabilization in Syringe Pump-Driven Systems
Authors: Zhou Yidi , Liu Jixiao , Yan Junjia , Zhu Tong , Guo Shijie , Li Songjing , Li Tiejun
Published: April 2020

Unstable liquid flow in syringe pump-driven systems due to the low-speed vibration of the step motor is commonly observed as an unfavorable phenomenon, especially when the flow rate is relatively small. Upon the design of a convenient and cost-efficient microfluidic standing air bubble system, this paper studies the physical principles behind the flow stabilization phenomenon of the bubble-based hydraulic capacitors. A bubble-based hydraulic capacitor consists of three parts: tunable microfluidic standing air bubbles in specially designed crevices on the fluidic channel wall, a proximal pneumatic channel, and porous barriers between them. Micro-bubbles formed in the crevices during liquid flow and the volume of the bubble can be actively controlled by the pneumatic pressure changing in the proximal channel. When there is a flowrate fluctuation from the upstream, the flexible air-liquid interface would deform under the pressure variation, which is analogous to the capacitive charging/discharging process. The theoretical model based on Euler law and the microfluidic equivalent circuit was developed to understand the multiphysical phenomenon. Experimental data characterize the liquid flow stabilization performance of the flow stabilizer with multiple key parameters, such as the number and the size of microbubbles. The developed bubble-based hydraulic capacitor could minimize the flow pulses from syringe pumping by 75.3%. Furthermore, a portable system is demonstrated and compared with a commercial pressure-driven flow system. This study can enhance the understanding of the bubble-based hydraulic capacitors that would be beneficial in microfluidic systems where the precise and stable liquid flow is required.
Mechanical Properties of 3D Nanostructures Obtained by Focused Electron/Ion Beam-Induced Deposition: A Review
Authors: Utke Ivo , Michler Johann , Winkler Robert , Plank Harald
Published: April 2020

This article reviews the state-of-the -art of mechanical material properties and measurement methods of nanostructures obtained by two nanoscale additive manufacturing methods: gas-assisted focused electron and focused ion beam-induced deposition using volatile organic and organometallic precursors. Gas-assisted focused electron and ion beam-induced deposition-based additive manufacturing technologies enable the direct-write fabrication of complex 3D nanostructures with feature dimensions below 50 nm, pore-free and nanometer-smooth high-fidelity surfaces, and an increasing flexibility in choice of materials via novel precursors. We discuss the principles, possibilities, and literature proven examples related to the mechanical properties of such 3D nanoobjects. Most materials fabricated via these approaches reveal a metal matrix composition with metallic nanograins embedded in a carbonaceous matrix. By that, specific material functionalities, such as magnetic, electrical, or optical can be largely independently tuned with respect to mechanical properties governed mostly by the matrix. The carbonaceous matrix can be precisely tuned via electron and/or ion beam irradiation with respect to the carbon network, carbon hybridization, and volatile element content and thus take mechanical properties ranging from polymeric-like over amorphous-like toward diamond-like behavior. Such metal matrix nanostructures open up entirely new applications, which exploit their full potential in combination with the unique 3D additive manufacturing capabilities at the nanoscale.
Micro-Pattern of Graphene Oxide Films Using Metal Bonding
Authors: Abunahla Heba , Alamoodi Nahla , Alazzam Anas , Mohammad Baker
Published: April 2020

Recently, graphene has been explored in several research areas according to its outstanding combination of mechanical and electrical features. The ability to fabricate micro-patterns of graphene facilitates its integration in emerging technologies such as flexible electronics. This work reports a novel micro-pattern approach of graphene oxide (GO) film on a polymer substrate using metal bonding. It is shown that adding ethanol to the GO aqueous dispersion enhances substantially the uniformity of GO thin film deposition, which is a great asset for mass production. On the other hand, the presence of ethanol in the GO solution hinders the fabrication of patterned GO films using the standard lift-off process. To overcome this, the fabrication process provided in this work takes advantage of the chemical adhesion between the GO or reduced GO (rGO) and metal films. It is proved that the adhesion between the metal layer and GO or rGO is stronger than the adhesion between the latter and the polymer substrate (i.e., cyclic olefin copolymer used in this work). This causes the removal of the GO layer underneath the metal film during the lift-off process, leaving behind the desired GO or rGO micro-patterns. The feasibility and suitability of the proposed pattern technique is confirmed by fabricating the patterned electrodes inside a microfluidic device to manipulate living cells using dielectrophoresis. This work adds great value to micro-pattern GO and rGO thin films and has immense potential to achieve high yield production in emerging applications.
Controllable pH Manipulations in Micro/Nanofluidic Device Using Nanoscale Electrokinetics
Authors: Park Jae , Oh Jeewhan , Kim Sung
Published: April 2020

Recently introduced nanoscale electrokinetic phenomenon called ion concentration polarization (ICP) has been suffered from serious pH changes to the sample fluid. A number of studies have focused on the origin of pH changes and strategies for regulating it. Instead of avoiding pH changes, in this work, we tried to demonstrate new ways to utilize this inevitable pH change. First, one can obtain a well-defined pH gradient in proton-received microchannel by applying a fixed electric current through a proton exchange membrane. Furthermore, one can tune the pH gradient on demand by adjusting the proton mass transportation (i.e., adjusting electric current). Secondly, we demonstrated that the occurrence of ICP can be examined by sensing a surrounding pH of electrolyte solution. When pH > threshold pH, patterned pH-responsive hydrogel inside a straight microchannel acted as a nanojunction to block the microchannel, while it did as a microjunction when pH < threshold pH. In case of forming a nanojunction, electrical current significantly dropped compared to the case of a microjunction. The strategies that presented in this work would be a basis for useful engineering applications such as a localized pH stimulation to biomolecules using tunable pH gradient generation and portable pH sensor with pH-sensitive hydrogel.
A Method to Enhance Stroke Level of a MEMS Micromirror with Repulsive Electrostatic Force
Authors: Aryal Niwit , Emadi Arezoo
Published: April 2020

This paper presents a method to enhance the stroke level of a MEMS micromirror that, unlike conventional micromirrors, is actuated using a repulsive electrostatic force. The designed and proposed micromirror is held by L-shaped arms suspended over a set of bottom electrodes. In this configuration, three bottom electrodes are centered below each arm and are separated with a designed gap from each other to optimize the generated repulsive force. Using this approach, the micromirror surface is forced to deflect upward compared with the conventional downward deflection. The designed micromirror is proposed to utilize the PolyMUMPs fabrication technique from MEMSCAP Inc. In this work and in an unconventional approach, an air cavity of 2.75 µm can be achieved by combining the two available oxide layers through an additional removal of a polysilicon structural layer. It is shown that this design can significantly enhance the stroke level of the proposed micromirror to 5 µm at 150 V DC.
Silicon Conical Structures by Metal Assisted Chemical Etching
Authors: Pérez-Díaz Oscar , Quiroga-González Enrique
Published: April 2020

A simple and inexpensive method to obtain Si conical structures is proposed. The method consists of a sequence of steps that include photolithography and metal assisted chemical etching (MACE) to create porous regions that are dissolved in a post-etching process. The proposed process takes advantage of the lateral etching obtained when using catalyst particles smaller than 40 nm for MACE. The final shape of the base of the structures is mainly given by the shape of the lithography mask used for the process. Conical structures ranging from units to hundreds of microns can be produced by this method. The advantage of the method is its simplicity, allowing the production of the structures in a basic chemical lab.
Experimental Investigation of the Flow and Heat Transfer Characteristics in Microchannel Heat Exchangers with Reentrant Cavities
Authors: Huang Binghuan , Li Haiwang , Xu Tiantong
Published: April 2020

The application of microchannel heat exchangers is of great significance in industrial fields due to their advantages of miniaturized scale, large surface-area-to-volume ratio, and high heat transfer rate. In this study, microchannel heat exchangers with and without fan-shaped reentrant cavities were designed and manufactured, and experiments were conducted to investigate the flow and heat-transfer characteristics. The impact rising from the radius of reentrant cavities, as well as the Reynolds number on the heat transfer and the pressure drop, is also analyzed. The results indicate that, compared with straight microchannels, microchannels with reentrant cavities could enhance the heat transfer and, more importantly, reduce the pressure drop at the same time. For the ranges of parameters studied, increasing the radius of reentrant cavities could augment the effect of pressure-drop reduction, while the corresponding variation of heat transfer is complicated. It is considered that adding reentrant cavities in microchannel heat exchangers is an ideal approach to improve performance.
Magnetically Powered Biodegradable Microswimmers
Authors: Sun Ho Cheung Michael , Liao Pan , Wei Tanyong , Zhang Li , Sun Dong
Published: April 2020

The propulsive efficiency and biodegradability of wireless microrobots play a significant role in facilitating promising biomedical applications. Mimicking biological matters is a promising way to improve the performance of microrobots. Among diverse locomotion strategies, undulatory propulsion shows remarkable efficiency and agility. This work proposes a novel magnetically powered and hydrogel-based biodegradable microswimmer. The microswimmer is fabricated integrally by 3D laser lithography based on two-photon polymerization from a biodegradable material and has a total length of 200 μm and a diameter of 8 μm. The designed microswimmer incorporates a novel design utilizing four rigid segments, each of which is connected to the succeeding segment by spring to achieve undulation, improving structural integrity as well as simplifying the fabrication process. Under an external oscillating magnetic field, the microswimmer with multiple rigid segments connected by flexible spring can achieve undulatory locomotion and move forward along with the directions guided by the external magnetic field in the low Reynolds number (Re) regime. In addition, experiments demonstrated that the microswimmer can be degraded successfully, which allows it to be safely applied in real-time in vivo environments. This design has great potential in future in vivo applications such as precision medicine, drug delivery, and diagnosis.
Investigation of Adiposity Measures and Operational Taxonomic unit (OTU) Data Transformation Procedures in Stool Samples from a German Cohort Study Using Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Troll Martina , Brandmaier Stefan , Reitmeier Sandra , Adam Jonathan , Sharma Sapna , Sommer Alice , Bind Marie-Abèle , Neuhaus Klaus , Clavel Thomas , Adamski Jerzy , Haller Dirk , Peters Annette , Grallert Harald
Published: April 2020

The analysis of the gut microbiome with respect to health care prevention and diagnostic purposes is increasingly the focus of current research. We analyzed around 2000 stool samples from the KORA (Cooperative Health Research in the Region of Augsburg) cohort using high-throughput 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing representing a total microbial diversity of 2089 operational taxonomic units (OTUs). We evaluated the combination of three different components to assess the reflection of obesity related to microbiota profiles: (i) four prediction methods (i.e., partial least squares (PLS), support vector machine regression (SVMReg), random forest (RF), and M5Rules); (ii) five OTU data transformation approaches (i.e., no transformation, relative abundance without and with log-transformation, as well as centered and isometric log-ratio transformations); and (iii) predictions from nine measurements of obesity (i.e., body mass index, three measures of body shape, and five measures of body composition). Our results showed a substantial impact of all three components. The applications of SVMReg and PLS in combination with logarithmic data transformations resulted in considerably predictive models for waist circumference-related endpoints. These combinations were at best able to explain almost 40% of the variance in obesity measurements based on stool microbiota data (i.e., OTUs) only. A reduced loss in predictive performance was seen after sex-stratification in waist–height ratio compared to other waist-related measurements. Moreover, our analysis showed that the contribution of OTUs less prevalent and abundant is minor concerning the predictive power of our models.
SpoVG Is Necessary for Sporulation in Bacillus anthracis
Authors: Chen Meng , Lyu Yufei , Feng Erling , Zhu Li , Pan Chao , Wang Dongshu , Liu Xiankai , Wang Hengliang
Published: April 2020

The Bacillus anthracis spore constitutes the infectious form of the bacterium, and sporulation is an important process in the organism’s life cycle. Herein, we show that disruption of SpoVG resulted in defective B. anthracis sporulation. Confocal microscopy demonstrated that a ΔspoVG mutant could not form an asymmetric septum, the first morphological change observed during sporulation. Moreover, levels of spoIIE mRNA were reduced in the spoVG mutant, as demonstrated using β-galactosidase activity assays. The effects on sporulation of the ΔspoVG mutation differed in B. anthracis from those in B. subtilis because of the redundant functions of SpoVG and SpoIIB in B. subtilis. SpoVG is highly conserved between B. anthracis and B. subtilis. Conversely, BA4688 (the protein tentatively assigned as SpoIIB in B. anthracis) and B. subtilis SpoIIB (SpoIIBBs) share only 27.9% sequence identity. On complementation of the B. anthracis ΔspoVG strain with spoIIBBs, the resulting strain pBspoIIBBs/ΔspoVG could not form resistant spores, but partially completed the prespore engulfment stage. In agreement with this finding, mRNA levels of the prespore engulfment gene spoIIM were significantly increased in strain pBspoIIBBs/ΔspoVG compared with the ΔspoVG strain. Transcription of the coat development gene cotE was similar in the pBspoIIBBs/ΔspoVG and ΔspoVG strains. Thus, unlike in B. subtilis, SpoVG appears to be required for sporulation in B. anthracis, which provides further insight into the sporulation mechanisms of this pathogen.
Implementation of Multispectral Imaging (MSI) for Microbiological Quality Assessment of Poultry Products
Authors: Spyrelli Evgenia D. , Doulgeraki Agapi I. , Argyri Anthoula A. , Tassou Chrysoula C. , Panagou Efstathios Z. , Nychas George-John E.
Published: April 2020

The aim of this study was to investigate on an industrial scale the potential of multispectral imaging (MSI) in the assessment of the quality of different poultry products. Therefore, samples of chicken breast fillets, thigh fillets, marinated souvlaki and burger were subjected to MSI analysis during production together with microbiological analysis for the enumeration of Total Viable Counts (TVC) and Pseudomonas spp. Partial Least Squares Regression (PLS-R) models were developed based on the spectral data acquired to predict the “time from slaughter” parameter for each product type. Results showed that PLS-R models could predict effectively the time from slaughter in all products, while the food matrix and variations within and between batches were identified as significant factors affecting the performance of the models. The chicken thigh model showed the lowest RMSE value (0.160) and an acceptable correlation coefficient (r = 0.859), followed by the chicken burger model where RMSE and r values were 0.285 and 0.778, respectively. Additionally, for the chicken breast fillet model the calculated r and RMSE values were 0.886 and 0.383 respectively, whereas for chicken marinated souvlaki, the respective values were 0.934 and 0.348. Further improvement of the provided models is recommended in order to develop efficient models estimating time from slaughter.
The Simultaneous Removal of Zinc and Cadmium from Multicomponent Aqueous Solutions by Their Sorption onto Selected Natural and Synthetic Zeolites
Authors: Kozera-Sucharda Bożena , Gworek Barbara , Kondzielski Igor
Published: April 2020

Natural and synthetic aluminosilicate minerals, in particular zeolites, are considered to be very useful in remediation processes, such as purification of waters polluted with heavy metals. That is due to their unique and outstanding physico-chemical properties, rendering them highly efficient, low-cost, and environmentally friendly sorbents of various environmental pollutants. The aim of this study was to examine the sorption capacity of four selected zeolites: A natural zeolite and three synthetic zeolites (3A, 10A, and 13X), towards zinc and cadmium present in multicomponent aqueous solutions, in relation to identified sorption mechanisms. It was stated that synthetic zeolites 3A and 10A were the most efficient in simultaneous removal of zinc and cadmium from aqueous solutions. Additionally, zeolite 10A was demonstrated to be the mineral best coping with prolonged pollution of water with those elements. The mechanism of sorption identified for tested minerals was physisorption.
Exploring Strategies to Contact 3D Nano-Pillars
Authors: Amat Esteve , del Moral Alberto , Fernández-Regúlez Marta , Evangelio Laura , Lorenzoni Matteo , Gharbi Ahmed , Rademaker Guido , Pourteau Marie-Line , Tiron Raluca , Bausells Joan , Perez-Murano Francesc
Published: April 2020

This contribution explores different strategies to electrically contact vertical pillars with diameters less than 100 nm. Two process strategies have been defined, the first based on Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) indentation and the second based on planarization and reactive ion etching (RIE). We have demonstrated that both proposals provide suitable contacts. The results help to conclude that the most feasible strategy to be implementable is the one using planarization and reactive ion etching since it is more suitable for parallel and/or high-volume manufacturing processing.
Improving Anticancer Therapy with Naringenin-Loaded Silk Fibroin Nanoparticles
Authors: Fuster Marta G. , Carissimi Guzmán , Montalbán Mercedes G. , Víllora Gloria
Published: April 2020

Naringenin (NAR), a flavonoid present in a variety of fruits, vegetables and herbs, exhibits a wide range of pharmacological effects, including anticancer activity. Nevertheless, its application in cancer therapy is limited due to its low bioavailability at the tumour site because of its poor solubility in water and slow dissolution rate. To improve the therapeutic efficacy of NAR, emergent research is looking into using nanocarriers. Silk fibroin (SF), from the Bombyx mori silkworm, is a biocompatible and biodegradable polymer with excellent mechanical properties and an amphiphilic chemistry that make it a promising candidate as a controlled release drug system. The aim of this work is to synthesize naringenin-loaded silk fibroin nanoparticles (NAR-SFNs) by dissolving the SF in the ionic liquid 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate, using high-power ultrasounds and rapid desolvation in methanol followed by the adsorption of NAR. The NAR-SFNs were characterized by dynamic light scattering, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. The drug loading content and encapsulation efficiency were calculated. The drug release profile best fitted a first order equation. The cytotoxicity effects of free NAR, bare silk fibroin nanoparticles (SFNs) and NAR-SFNs were assessed on HeLa and EA.hy926 cells via 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. The results demonstrated the higher in vitro anticancer potential of synthesized NAR-SFNs than that of free NAR in HeLa cancer cells.
One Dimensional AuAg Nanostructures as Anodic Catalysts in the Ethylene Glycol Oxidation
Authors: K. Kehoe Daniel , Romeral Luis , Lundy Ross , A. Morris Michael , G. Lyons Michael , Gun’ko Yurii K.
Published: April 2020

Direct alcohol fuel cells are highly promising as efficient power sources for various mobile and portable applications. However, for the further advancement of fuel cell technology it is necessary to develop new, cost-effective Pt-free electrocatalysts that could provide efficient alcohol oxidation and also resist cross-over poisoning. Here, we report new electrocatalytic materials for ethylene glycol oxidation, which are based on AuAg linear nanostructures. We demonstrate a low temperature tunable synthesis that enables the preparation of one dimensional (1D) AuAg nanostructures ranging from nanowires to a new nano-necklace-like structure. Using a two-step method, we showed that, by aging the initial reaction mixture at various temperatures, we produced ultrathin AuAg nanowires with a diameter of 9.2 ± 2 and 3.8 ± 1.6 nm, respectively. These nanowires exhibited a high catalytic performance for the electro-oxidation of ethylene glycol with remarkable poisoning resistance. These results highlight the benefit of 1D metal alloy-based nanocatalysts for fuel cell applications and are expected to make an important contribution to the further development of fuel cell technology.
Dexibuprofen Biodegradable Nanoparticles: One Step Closer towards a Better Ocular Interaction Study
Authors: Sánchez-López Elena , Esteruelas Gerard , Ortiz Alba , Espina Marta , Prat Josefina , Muñoz Montserrat , Cano Amanda , Calpena Ana Cristina , Ettcheto Miren , Camins Antoni , Alsafi Zaid , Souto Eliana B. , García Maria Luisa , Pujol Montserrat
Published: April 2020

Ocular inflammation is one of the most prevalent diseases in ophthalmology, which can affect various parts of the eye or the surrounding tissues. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, are commonly used to treat ocular inflammation in the form of eye-drops. However, their bioavailability in ocular tissues is very low (less than 5%). Therefore, drug delivery systems such as biodegradable polymeric PLGA nanoparticles constitute a suitable alternative to topical eye administration, as they can improve ocular bioavailability and simultaneously reduce drug induced side effects. Moreover, their prolonged drug release can enhance patient treatment adherence as they require fewer administrations. Therefore, several formulations of PLGA based nanoparticles encapsulating dexibuprofen (active enantiomer of Ibuprofen) were prepared using the solvent displacement method employing different surfactants. The formulations have been characterized and their interactions with a customized lipid corneal membrane model were studied. Ex vivo permeation through ocular tissues and in vivo anti-inflammatory efficacy have also been studied.
Strong Linear Correlation between CH3NH2 Molecular Defect and THz-Wave Absorption in CH3NH3PbI3 Hybrid Perovskite Thin Film
Authors: Maeng Inhee , Matsuyama Asuka , Yun Jung-Ho , Wang Shenghao , Kang Chul , Kee Chul-Sik , Nakamura Masakazu , Jung Min-Cherl
Published: April 2020

To control the density of a CH3NH2 molecular defect, which strongly contributed to a significant THz-wave absorption property in the CH3NH3PbI3 hybrid perovskite thin film formed by the sequential vacuum evaporation method, we performed post-annealing processes with various temperatures and times. In the thin film after post-annealing at 110 °C for 45 min, the density of the CH3NH2 molecular defect was minimized, and CH3NH3I and PbI2 disappeared in the thin film after the post-annealing process at 150 °C for 30 min. However, the density of the CH3NH2 molecular defect increased. Moreover, the THz-wave absorption property for each thin film was obtained using a THz time-domain spectroscopy to understand the correlation between the density of a molecular defect and the THz-wave oscillation strength at 1.6 THz, which originated in the molecular defect-incorporated hybrid perovskite structure. There is a strong linear correlation between the oscillator strength of a significant THz-wave absorption at 1.6 THz and the CH3NH2 molecular defect density.