bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Carbon Partition and Precipitation on Wear Resistance of Carburized Layer in Heavy-Duty Gear
Authors: Zhang Tianyu , Wang Jian , Pan Zhizhou , Tao Qing
Published: November 2021

The carburizing–quenching–tempering process is generally conducted on heavy-duty gear in order to obtain favorable comprehensive mechanical performance. Different mechanical properties could be produced by carbon partition and precipitation. In this study, the carburizing–quenching–tempering process was carried out on low-carbon alloy steel in order to investigate the influence of microstructure evolution and precipitate transition on mechanical behavior and wear resistance under different carburizing/tempering durations. Favorable comprehensive mechanical property and wear resistance could be obtained in favor of long durations of carburizing/tempering. A fatigue-wear model was proposed to describe fatigue crack evolution and damage mechanism on the basis of wear features.
Microstructural Classification of Bainitic Subclasses in Low-Carbon Multi-Phase Steels Using Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Müller Martin , Britz Dominik , Staudt Thorsten , Mücklich Frank
Published: November 2021

With its excellent property combinations and ability to specifically adjust tailor-made microstructures, steel is still the world’s most important engineering and construction material. To fulfill ever-increasing demands and tighter tolerances in today’s steel industry, steel research remains indispensable. The continuous material development leads to more and more complex microstructures, which is especially true for steel designs that include bainitic structures. This poses new challenges for the classification and quantification of these microstructures. Machine learning (ML) based microstructure classification offers exciting potentials in this context. This paper is concerned with the automated, objective, and reproducible classification of the carbon-rich second phase objects in multi-phase steels by using machine learning techniques. For successful applications of ML-based classifications, a holistic approach combining computer science expertise and material science domain knowledge is necessary. Seven microstructure classes are considered: pearlite, martensite, and the bainitic subclasses degenerate pearlite, debris of cementite, incomplete transformation product, and upper and lower bainite, which can all be present simultaneously in one micrograph. Based on SEM images, textural features (Haralick parameters and local binary pattern) and morphological parameters are calculated and classified with a support vector machine. Of all second phase objects, 82.9% are classified correctly. Regarding the total area of these objects, 89.2% are classified correctly. The reported classification can be the basis for an improved, sophisticated microstructure quantification, enabling process–microstructure–property correlations to be established and thereby forming the backbone of further, microstructure-centered material development.
Creep and Deformation of Metals and Alloys at Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Dudova Nadezhda
Published: November 2021

Various aspects of creep and deformation behaviors of metals and alloys at elevated temperatures are of great interest to materials scientists [...]
Citric Acid as an Alternative to Sulfuric Acid for the Hard-Anodizing of AA6061
Authors: Cabral-Miramontes José , Almeraya-Calderón Facundo , López Francisco Estupinán , Lara Banda María , Olguín-Coca Javier , López-León Luis Daimir , Castañeda-Robles Ivan , Alcalá Miguel Ángel Esneider , Zambrano-Robledo Patricia , Gaona-Tiburcio Citlalli
Published: November 2021

Hard-anodized is a widely used method in the aeronautical sector to improve aluminum alloys abrasion and corrosion resistance. Aim of this work was to characterize the mechanical properties and resistance hard-anodized aluminum 6061 in citric acid solution as a replacement sulfuric acid solution were investigated. Aluminum alloy 6061 was used as the base material to produce the hard anodizing; this process was carried out in a citric and sulfuric acid solution, applying current densities 3 and 4.5 A/cm2 and subsequently exposed to 3.5 wt. % NaCl solution. Microstructure and mechanical properties of the anodizing material were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Vickers microhardness (HV). Corrosion behavior of the hard-anodized material it was carried out with electrochemical techniques as cyclic potentiodynamic polarization (CPP) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) respectively. Results obtained indicated that all samples anodized in citric acid solution showed negative hysteresis and lower corrosion current density (1 × 10−10 A/cm2), indicating generalized corrosion on the material surface. EIS results show that anodizing in citric acid solution and a current density of 4.5 A/dm2 provides better corrosion protection than a sulfuric acid solution.
Dual Cluster Model for Medium-Range Order in Metallic Glasses
Authors: Shimono Masato , Onodera Hidehiro
Published: November 2021

The atomic structure of medium-range order in metallic glasses is investigated by using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Glass formation processes were simulated by rapid cooling from liquid phases of a model binary alloy system of different-sized elements. Two types of short-range order of atomic clusters with the five-fold symmetry are found in glassy phases: icosahedral clusters (I-clusters) formed around the smaller-sized atoms and Frank–Kasper clusters (i.e., Z14, Z15, and Z16 clusters (Z-clusters)) formed around the bigger-sized atoms. Both types of clusters (I-and Z-clusters) are observed even in liquid phases and the population of them goes up as the temperature goes down. A considerable atomic size difference between alloying elements would enhance the formation of both the I- and Z-clusters. In glassy phases, the I- and Z-clusters are mutually connected to form a complicated network, and the network structure becomes denser as the structural relaxation goes on. In the network, the medium-range order is mainly constructed by the volume sharing type connection between I- and Z-clusters. Following Nelson’s disclination theory, the network structure can be understood as a random network of Z-clusters, which is complimentarily surrounded by another type of network formed by I-clusters.
Experimental and Numerical Investigations of In Situ Alloying during Powder Bed Fusion of Metals Using a Laser Beam
Authors: Wimmer Andreas , Yalvac Baturay , Zoeller Christopher , Hofstaetter Fabian , Adami Stefan , Adams Nikolaus A. , Zaeh Michael F.
Published: November 2021

Powder Bed Fusion of Metals using a Laser Beam (PBF-LB/M) is increasingly utilized for the fabrication of complex parts in various industrial sectors. Enabling a robust and reproducible manufacturing process is one of the main goals in view of the future success of PBF-LB/M. To meet these challenges, alloys that are specifically adapted to the process are required. This paper demonstrates the successful interplay of simulation studies with experimental data to analyze the basic phenomena of in situ alloying. The meshless Smoothed-Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) method was employed for the numerical simulation of two-component powder systems considering both thermodynamics and fluid mechanics in the solid and the melt phase. The simulation results for the in situ alloying of stainless steel 316L blended with the aluminum alloy AlSi10Mg were enriched and validated with the data from a novel experimental test bench. The combination of both approaches can enhance the understanding of the process for in situ alloying. Therefore, future investigations of the PBF-LB/M process with multi-component powder systems can benefit from detailed numerical studies using SPH.
Synthetic Biology Advanced Natural Product Discovery
Authors: Wang Junyang , Nielsen Jens , Liu Zihe
Published: November 2021

A wide variety of bacteria, fungi and plants can produce bioactive secondary metabolites, which are often referred to as natural products. With the rapid development of DNA sequencing technology and bioinformatics, a large number of putative biosynthetic gene clusters have been reported. However, only a limited number of natural products have been discovered, as most biosynthetic gene clusters are not expressed or are expressed at extremely low levels under conventional laboratory conditions. With the rapid development of synthetic biology, advanced genome mining and engineering strategies have been reported and they provide new opportunities for discovery of natural products. This review discusses advances in recent years that can accelerate the design, build, test, and learn (DBTL) cycle of natural product discovery, and prospects trends and key challenges for future research directions.
Reactive Transport Modelling of the Long-Term Interaction between Carbon Steel and MX-80 Bentonite at 25 °C
Authors: Chaparro M. Carme , Finck Nicolas , Metz Volker , Geckeis Horst
Published: November 2021

The geological disposal in deep bedrock repositories is the preferred option for the management of high-level radioactive waste (HLW). In some of these concepts, carbon steel is considered as a potential canister material and bentonites are planned as backfill material to protect metallic waste containers. Therefore, a 1D radial reactive transport model has been developed in order to better understand the processes occurring during the long-term iron-bentonite interaction. The numerical model accounts for diffusion, aqueous complexation reactions, mineral dissolution/precipitation and cation exchange at a constant temperature of 25 °C under anoxic conditions. Our results suggest that Fe is sorbed at the montmorillonite surface via cation exchange in the short-term, and it is consumed by formation of the secondary phases in the long-term. The numerical model predicts precipitation of nontronite, magnetite and greenalite as corrosion products. Calcite precipitates due to cation exchange in the short-term and due to montmorillonite dissolution in the long-term. Results further reveal a significant increase in pH in the long-term, while dissolution/precipitation reactions result in limited variations of the porosity. A sensitivity analysis has also been performed to test the effect of selected parameters, such as corrosion rate, diffusion coefficient and composition of the bentonite porewater, on the corrosion processes. Overall, outcomes suggest that the predicted main corrosion products in the long-term are Fe-silicate minerals, such phases thus should deserve further attention as a chemical barrier in the diffusion of radionuclides to the repository far field.
Enhanced Performance of Bioelectrodes Made with Amination-Modified Glucose Oxidase Immobilized on Carboxyl-Functionalized Ordered Mesoporous Carbon
Authors: Lv Chuhan , Yang Xuewei , Wang Zongkang , Ying Ming , Han Qingguo , Li Shuangfei
Published: November 2021

This research reveals the improved performance of bioelectrodes made with amination-modified glucose oxidase (GOx-NH2) and carboxyl-functionalized mesoporous carbon (OMC-COOH). Results showed that when applied with 10 mM EDC amination, the functional groups of NH2 were successfully added to GOx, according to the analysis of 1H-NMR, elemental composition, and FTIR spectra. Moreover, after the aminated modification, increased enzyme immobilization (124.01 ± 1.49 mg GOx-NH2/g OMC-COOH; 2.77-fold increase) and enzyme activity (1.17-fold increase) were achieved, compared with those of non-modified GOx. Electrochemical analysis showed that aminated modification enhanced the peak current intensity of Nafion/GOx-NH2/OMC-COOH (1.32-fold increase), with increases in the charge transfer coefficient α (0.54), the apparent electron transfer rate constant ks (2.54 s−1), and the surface coverage Γ (2.91 × 10−9 mol·cm−2). Results showed that GOx-NH2/OMC-COOH exhibited impressive electro-activity and a favorable anodic reaction.
Living Bacteria Directly Embedded into Electrospun Nanofibers: Design of New Anode for Bio-Electrochemical Systems
Authors: Massaglia Giulia , Sacco Adriano , Chiodoni Angelica , Pirri Candido Fabrizio , Quaglio Marzia
Published: November 2021

The aim of this work is the optimization of electrospun polymeric nanofibers as an ideal reservoir of mixed electroactive consortia suitable to be used as anodes in Single Chamber Microbial Fuel Cells (SCMFCs). To reach this goal the microorganisms are directly embedded into properly designed nanofibers during the electrospinning process, obtaining so called nanofiber-based bio-composite (bio-NFs). This research approach allowed for the designing of an advanced nanostructured scaffold, able to block and store the living microorganisms inside the nanofibers and release them only after exposure to water-based solutions and electrolytes. To reach this goal, a water-based polymeric solution, containing 5 wt% of polyethylene oxide (PEO) and 10 wt% of environmental microorganisms, is used as the initial polymeric solution for the electrospinning process. PEO is selected as the water-soluble polymer to ensure the formation of nanofiber mats offering features of biocompatibility for bacteria proliferation, environment-friendliness and, high ionic conductivity. In the present work, bio-NFs, based on living microorganisms directly encapsulated into the PEO nanofiber mats, were analyzed and compared to PEO-NFs made of PEO only. Scanning electron microscopy allowed researchers to confirm the rise of a typical morphology for bio-NFs, evidencing the microorganisms’ distribution inside them, as confirmed by fluorescence optical microscopy. Moreover, the latter technique, combined with optical density measurements, allowed for demonstrating that after electrospinning, the processed microorganisms preserved their proliferation capability, and their metabolic activity after exposure to the water-based electrolyte. To demonstrate that the energy-production functionality of exo-electrogenic microorganisms was preserved after the electrospinning process, the novel designed nanomaterials, were directly deposited onto carbon paper (CP), and were applied as anode electrodes in Single Chamber Microbial Fuel Cells (SCMFCs). It was possible to appreciate that the maximum power density reached by bio-NFs, which resulted in being double of the ones achieved with PEO-NFs and bare CP. SCMFCs with bio-NFs applied as anodic electrodes reached a current density value, close to (250 ± 5.2) mA m−2, which resulted in being stable over time and was comparable with the one obtained with carbon-based electrode, thus confirming the good performance of the whole device.
Circularly Polarized Light Detection by Chiral Photonic Cellulose Nanocrystal with ZnO Photoconductive Layer in Ultraviolet Region
Authors: Zhang Boyu , Zhao Sixiang , Yu Yingying , Li Ming , Zhao Liancheng , Gao Liming
Published: November 2021

Circularly polarized light (CPL) detection and polarization state recognition are required for a wide range of applications. Conventional polarization detection with optical components causes difficulties for miniaturization and integration. An effective design strategy is proposed for direct CPL detection with chiral material. Here, we realized direct CPL detection based on the combination of chiral photonic cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) and ultraviolet-sensitive ZnO photoconductive material. The CNC layer deposited by evaporation-induced self-assembly established the left-handed chiral nematic structure with a photonic bandgap (PBG) to recognize left-handed CPL (LCPL) and right-handed CPL (RCPL) at specific wavelengths. The PBG of CNC layer has been modulated by the adjustment of chiral nematic pitch to match the semiconductor bandgap of ZnO film in ultraviolet region. The photocurrents under RCPL and LCPL are 2.23 × 10−6 A and 1.77 × 10−6 A respectively and the anisotropy factor Δgpc of 0.23 is acquired for the CPL detection based on the chiral photonic CNC. This design provides a new approach to the detection of CPL polarization state with competitive performance.
Dietary Patterns and Breast Cancer Risk in Black Urban South African Women: The SABC Study
Authors: Jacobs Inarie , Taljaard-Krugell Christine , Wicks Mariaan , Cubasch Herbert , Joffe Maureen , Laubscher Ria , Romieu Isabelle , Biessy Carine , Rinaldi Sabina , Huybrechts Inge
Published: November 2021

A total of 396 breast cancer cases and 396 population-based controls from the South African Breast Cancer study (SABC) matched on age and demographic settings was included. Validated questionnaires were used to collect dietary and epidemiological data. Dietary patterns were derived using principal component analysis with a covariance matrix from 33 food groups. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were estimated using conditional logistic regression. A traditional, a cereal-dairy breakfast and a processed food dietary pattern were identified, which together explained 40.3% of the total variance in the diet. After adjusting for potential confounders, the traditional dietary pattern and cereal-dairy breakfast dietary pattern were inversely associated with breast cancer risk (highest tertile versus lowest tertile) (OR = 0.72, 95%CI: 0.57–0.89, p-trend = 0.004 and OR = 0.73, 95%CI: 0.59–0.90, p-trend = 0.004, respectively). The processed food dietary pattern was not significantly associated with breast cancer risk. The results of this study show that a traditional dietary pattern and a cereal-dairy breakfast dietary pattern may reduce the risk of developing breast cancer in this population.
Handgrip Strength: Associations with Clinical Variables, Body Composition, and Bone Mineral Density in Adults with Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Contreras-Bolívar Victoria , Olveira Casilda , Ruiz-García Ignacio , Porras Nuria , García-Olivares Maria , Sánchez-Torralvo Francisco José , Girón Maria Victoria , Alonso-Gallardo Silvia P. , Olveira Gabriel
Published: November 2021

Background: Loss of fat-free mass (FFM) is associated with an increase in morbidity and mortality in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients. Handgrip strength (HGS) measures muscle function and may be associated with clinical parameters with prognostic value. Our objectives were to evaluate muscle strength through HGS in CF patients and to determine if there are any associations with respiratory clinical variables, FFM, and bone mineral density (BMD). Methods: A cross-sectional study conducted in clinically stable patients. We evaluated muscle function through HGS, respiratory function—forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) (%), forced vital capacity (FVC) (%), bronchorrhea, annual exacerbations, and body composition (FFM and FFM index, FFMI: fat-free mass in kg/height in m2) and Bone Mineral Density (BMD) through densitometry (DXA). Results: The study included 53 CF patients (58.5% females, mean age 28.3 ± 8.1, body mass index (BMI) 21.7 ± 3.4). The mean values for dynamometry were 40.2 ± 8.1 kg in males and 23.1 ± 7.0 kg in women, being 20.8% below the 10th percentile. Patients with lower muscle strength showed significantly more exacerbations and lower FEV1% and FVC%, as well as lower BMI, worse BMD (g/cm2), T-score, and Z-score. A significant and positive correlation was found between the mean and maximum dynamometry values and age, FVC%, BMI, FFMI, FFM (kg), and BMD. Conclusions: For adults with CF, HGS is a practical tool for assessment of health status. Low values reflect poor nutritional status and are associated with poor respiratory function, low fat-free mass and low bone mineral density.
Belgian Consensus Recommendations to Prevent Vitamin K Deficiency Bleeding in the Term and Preterm Infant
Authors: Fiesack Simon , Smits Anne , Rayyan Maissa , Allegaert Karel , Alliet Philippe , Arts Wim , Bael An , Cornette Luc , De Guchtenaere Ann , De Mulder Nele , George Isabel , Henrion Elisabeth , Keiren Kirsten , Kreins Nathalie , Raes Marc , Philippet Pierre , Van Overmeire Bart , Van Winckel Myriam , Vlieghe Vinciane , Vandenplas Yvan ,   on behalf of the Groups
Published: November 2021

Neonatal vitamin K prophylaxis is essential to prevent vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB) with a clear benefit compared to placebo. Various routes (intramuscular (IM), oral, intravenous (IV)) and dosing regimens were explored. A literature review was conducted to compare vitamin K regimens on VKDB incidence. Simultaneously, information on practices was collected from Belgian pediatric and neonatal departments. Based on the review and these practices, a consensus was developed and voted on by all co-authors and heads of pediatric departments. Today, practices vary. In line with literature, the advised prophylactic regimen is 1 or 2 mg IM vitamin K once at birth. In the case of parental refusal, healthcare providers should inform parents of the slightly inferior alternative (2 mg oral vitamin K at birth, followed by 1 or 2 mg oral weekly for 3 months when breastfed). We recommend 1 mg IM in preterm <32 weeks, and the same alternative in the case of parental refusal. When IM is perceived impossible in preterm <32 weeks, 0.5 mg IV once is recommended, with a single additional IM 1 mg dose when IV lipids are discontinued. This recommendation is a step towards harmonizing vitamin K prophylaxis in all newborns.
Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet Improves Fatty Acids Profile in Pediatric Patients with Idiopathic Nephrotic Syndrome
Authors: Stefano Turolo , Alberto Edefonti , William Morello , Giulia Bolzan , Louise Syren M. , Chiara Tamburello , Carlo Agostoni , Giovanni Montini
Published: November 2021

The fatty acid profiles of patients with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS) are different from that of healthy controls, even during remission, revealing an increase of the pro-inflammatory omega 6 series. It is still unknown whether the concomitance of nephrotic syndrome affects the potential positive effects of the Mediterranean diet on the levels of omega 3 and 6 fatty acids. We performed a cross-sectional study to evaluate the association between the adherence to the Mediterranean diet and fatty acid profile in 54 children with INS. The dietary habits were assessed through the validated Kidmed questionnaire. Patients with higher adherence had lower levels of linoleic acid and total omega-6. Moreover, a negative correlation between proteinuria and the anti-inflammatory omega-3 series was found. In conclusion, patients with INS with proteinuria and low adherence to the Mediterranean diet have an imbalance in the omega-6/omega-3 ratio that may benefit from following the Mediterranean diet.
Correlation between Serum Zinc Levels and Levodopa in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Matsuyama Hirofumi , Matsuura Keita , Ishikawa Hidehiro , Hirata Yoshinori , Kato Natsuko , Niwa Atsushi , Narita Yugo , Tomimoto Hidekazu
Published: November 2021

Long-term intake of potential zinc-chelating drugs may cause zinc deficiency. We postulated that zinc deficiency in Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients was related to the intake of drugs such as levodopa. We investigated the relationship between zinc levels and levodopa administration period, dosage, and symptoms of zinc deficiency in PD patients. We measured serum zinc levels and analyzed correlations between serum zinc levels, the levodopa oral administration period, dosage, dosing frequency, and zinc deficiency symptoms including taste disorders. Data analyses were performed using Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient. The mean serum zinc level was 60.5 ± 11.6 μg/dL. The mean administration period for levodopa was 8.0 ± 5.5 years, mean administration frequency 3.4 ± 0.9 times/d, and mean administration dose 420.6 ± 237.1 mg/d. Negative correlations between zinc levels and levodopa dosage and dosing frequency were found. Multiple regression analysis showed a significant correlation with the frequency of levodopa (β = −0.360, p = 0.007). No significant change in clinical symptoms was observed after zinc administration, but anxiety tended to improve. Our results indicated that frequent levodopa administration strongly influenced serum zinc levels which may have alleviating effects on psychiatric symptoms; therefore, preventing zinc deficiency can be important during PD treatment.
Assessment of Spanish Food Consumption Patterns during COVID-19 Home Confinement
Authors: Maestre Ana , Sospedra Isabel , Martínez-Sanz José Miguel , Gutierrez-Hervas Ana , Fernández-Saez José , Hurtado-Sánchez José Antonio , Norte Aurora
Published: November 2021

People’s eating habits and lifestyle can have a negative impact on health. In situations of difficulty or socioeconomic crisis, these habits tend to be modified, leading to unhealthy dietary patterns that result in an increase of chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Previous studies have indicated that, due to the state of alarm imposed in Spain to combat the spread of COVID-19, an increase in the purchase of non-core products occurred, along with a decrease in the daily physical activity of the population. This could be a risk factor for COVID-19 infection. The objective of this observational study was to analyze the dietary pattern of the Spanish population during home confinement and to compare it with the pattern of habitual consumption collected in the last National Health Survey, analyzing the possible changes. More than half of the respondents in the sample increased their consumption of sweets and snacks during confinement, while the consumption of fresh products decreased. Most claimed to be emotionally hungry, leading to an increase in their daily energy intake. The stress and anxiety generated by confinement could be the cause of the increased consumption of products rich in sugars and saturated fats, which are associated with greater stress and anxiety.
Increased Fat Taste Preference in Progranulin-Deficient Mice
Authors: Schumann Lana , Wilken-Schmitz Annett , Trautmann Sandra , Vogel Alexandra , Schreiber Yannick , Hahnefeld Lisa , Gurke Robert , Geisslinger Gerd , Tegeder Irmgard
Published: November 2021

Progranulin deficiency in mice is associated with deregulations of the scavenger receptor signaling of CD36/SCARB3 in immune disease models, and CD36 is a dominant receptor in taste bud cells in the tongue and contributes to the sensation of dietary fats. Progranulin-deficient mice (Grn−/−) are moderately overweight during middle age. We therefore asked if there was a connection between progranulin/CD36 in the tongue and fat taste preferences. By using unbiased behavioral analyses in IntelliCages and Phenomaster cages we showed that progranulin-deficient mice (Grn−/−) developed a strong preference of fat taste in the form of 2% milk over 0.3% milk, and for diluted MCTs versus tap water. The fat preference in the 7d-IntelliCage observation period caused an increase of 10% in the body weight of Grn−/− mice, which did not occur in the wildtype controls. CD36 expression in taste buds was reduced in Grn−/− mice at RNA and histology levels. There were no differences in the plasma or tongue lipids of various classes including sphingolipids, ceramides and endocannabinoids. The data suggest that progranulin deficiency leads to a lower expression of CD36 in the tongue resulting in a stronger urge for fatty taste and fatty nutrition.
A Snapshot of the Genetic Diversity of Salmonella Enteritidis Population Involved in Human Infections in Romania Taken in the European Epidemiological Context
Authors: Usein Codruta-Romanita , Oprea Mihaela , Ciontea Adriana Simona , Dinu Sorin , Cristea Daniela , Zota Lavinia Cipriana , Kotila Saara
Published: November 2021

In the absence of consistent national molecular typing data to enhance the surveillance of Salmonella Enteritidis, it was considered useful to collect baseline information on the genetic diversity and antibiotic susceptibility of strains isolated in Romania between January 2016 and April 2020 and compare them to strains described in major international outbreaks of the same period. A collection of 245 clinical isolates were genotyped by a standardised multiple-locus variable-number of tandem repeats analysis (MLVA) 5-loci protocol and screened for antimicrobial resistance against 15 compounds. Twenty strains were further subjected to whole genome sequencing (WGS) and compared to epidemiologically relevant high-throughput sequencing data available in European databases. Twenty-seven MLVA genotypes were identified, of which three, commonly reported in Europe between 2016–2020, covered 72% of the collection. Antibiotic resistance was detected in 30% of the strains, with resistance to nalidixic acid and ciprofloxacin as the most common phenotype, and also associated with two prevalent MLVA clones. WGS-derived multilocus sequence typing (MLST) revealed a single sequence type (ST11) further resolved into 10 core-genome MLST complex types. The minimum spanning tree constructed from the cgMLST data clustered Romanian and international strains, which shared more than 95% of the core genes, revealing links with a contemporaneous multi-country outbreak. This study could be regarded as a forerunner to the advent of using this integrative approach in the public health practice at a national level and thus contribute to the concerted actions at a European level to stop outbreaks.
T Cell Bispecific Antibodies: An Antibody-Based Delivery System for Inducing Antitumor Immunity
Authors: Kamakura Daisuke , Asano Ryutaro , Yasunaga Masahiro
Published: November 2021

As a breakthrough immunotherapy, T cell bispecific antibodies (T-BsAbs) are a promising antibody therapy for various kinds of cancer. In general, T-BsAbs have dual-binding specificity to a tumor-associated antigen and a CD3 subunit forming a complex with the TCR. This enables T-BsAbs to crosslink tumor cells and T cells, inducing T cell activation and subsequent tumor cell death. Unlike immune checkpoint inhibitors, which release the brake of the immune system, T-BsAbs serve as an accelerator of T cells by stimulating their immune response via CD3 engagement. Therefore, they can actively redirect host immunity toward tumors, including T cell recruitment from the periphery to the tumor site and immunological synapse formation between tumor cells and T cells. Although the low immunogenicity of solid tumors increases the challenge of cancer immunotherapy, T-BsAbs capable of immune redirection can greatly benefit patients with such tumors. To investigate the detailed relationship between T-BsAbs delivery and their T cell redirection activity, it is necessary to determine how T-BsAbs deliver antitumor immunity to the tumor site and bring about tumor cell death. This review article discusses T-BsAb properties, specifically their pharmacokinetics, redirection of anticancer immunity, and local mechanism of action within tumor tissues, and discuss further challenges to expediting T-BsAb development.
Sweetening Pharmaceutical Radiochemistry by 18F-Fluoroglycosylation: Recent Progress and Future Prospects
Authors: Shinde Sandip S. , Maschauer Simone , Prante Olaf
Published: November 2021

In the field of 18F-chemistry for the development of radiopharmaceuticals for positron emission tomography (PET), various labeling strategies by the use of prosthetic groups have been implemented, including chemoselective 18F-labeling of biomolecules. Among those, chemoselective 18F-fluoroglycosylation methods focus on the sweetening of pharmaceutical radiochemistry by offering a highly valuable tool for the synthesis of 18F-glycoconjugates with suitable in vivo properties for PET imaging studies. A previous review covered the various 18F-fluoroglycosylation methods that were developed and applied as of 2014 (Maschauer and Prante, BioMed. Res. Int. 2014, 214748). This paper is an updated review, providing the recent progress in 18F-fluoroglycosylation reactions and the preclinical application of 18F-glycoconjugates, including small molecules, peptides, and high-molecular-weight proteins.
Mimicking the Biology of Engineered Protein and mRNA Nanoparticle Delivery Using a Versatile Microfluidic Platform
Authors: Palacio-Castañeda Valentina , Oude Egberink Rik , Sait Arbaaz , Andrée Lea , Sala Benedetta Maria , Hassani Besheli Negar , Oosterwijk Egbert , Nilvebrant Johan , Leeuwenburgh Sander C. G. , Brock Roland , Verdurmen Wouter P. R.
Published: November 2021

To investigate the delivery of next-generation macromolecular drugs, such as engineered proteins and mRNA-containing nanoparticles, there is an increasing push towards the use of physiologically relevant disease models that incorporate human cells and do not face ethical dilemmas associated with animal use. Here, we illustrate the versatility and ease of use of a microfluidic platform for studying drug delivery using high-resolution microscopy in 3D. Using this microfluidic platform, we successfully demonstrate the specific targeting of carbonic anhydrase IX (CAIX) on cells overexpressing the protein in a tumor-mimicking chip system using affibodies, with CAIX-negative cells and non-binding affibodies as controls. Furthermore, we demonstrate this system’s feasibility for testing mRNA-containing biomaterials designed to regenerate bone defects. To this end, peptide- and lipid-based mRNA formulations were successfully mixed with colloidal gelatin in microfluidic devices, while translational activity was studied by the expression of a green fluorescent protein. This microfluidic platform enables the testing of mRNA delivery from colloidal biomaterials of relatively high densities, which represents a first important step towards a bone-on-a-chip platform. Collectively, by illustrating the ease of adaptation of our microfluidic platform towards use in distinct applications, we show that our microfluidic chip represents a powerful and flexible way to investigate drug delivery in 3D disease-mimicking culture systems that recapitulate key parameters associated with in vivo drug application.
Investigating Alternative Container Formats for Lyophilization of Biological Materials Using Diphtheria Antitoxin Monoclonal Antibody as a Model Molecule
Authors: Malik Kiran P. , Duru Chinwe , Stickings Paul , Wenzel Esther Veronika , Hust Michael , Matejtschuk Paul
Published: November 2021

When preparing biological reference materials, the stability of the lyophilized product is critical for long-term storage, particularly in order to meet WHO International Standards, which are not assigned expiry dates but are expected to be in use for several decades. Glass ampoules are typically used by the National Institute for Biological Standards and Control (NIBSC) for the lyophilization of biological materials. More recently, a clear need has arisen for the filling of smaller volumes, for which ampoules may not be optimal. We investigated the use of plastic microtubes as an alternative container for small volume fills. In this study, a recombinant diphtheria antitoxin monoclonal antibody (DATMAB) was used as a model molecule to investigate the suitability of plastic microtubes for filling small volumes. The stability and quality of the dried material was assessed after an accelerated degradation study using a toxin neutralization test and size exclusion HPLC. While microtubes have shown some promise in the past for use in the lyophilization of some biological materials, issues with stability may arise when more labile materials are freeze-dried. We demonstrate here that the microtube format is unsuitable for ensuring the stability of this monoclonal antibody.
Machine Learning Undercounts Reproductive Organs on Herbarium Specimens but Accurately Derives Their Quantitative Phenological Status: A Case Study of Streptanthus tortuosus
Authors: Love Natalie L. R. , Bonnet Pierre , Goëau Hervé , Joly Alexis , Mazer Susan J.
Published: November 2021

Machine learning (ML) can accelerate the extraction of phenological data from herbarium specimens; however, no studies have assessed whether ML-derived phenological data can be used reliably to evaluate ecological patterns. In this study, 709 herbarium specimens representing a widespread annual herb, Streptanthus tortuosus, were scored both manually by human observers and by a mask R-CNN object detection model to (1) evaluate the concordance between ML and manually-derived phenological data and (2) determine whether ML-derived data can be used to reliably assess phenological patterns. The ML model generally underestimated the number of reproductive structures present on each specimen; however, when these counts were used to provide a quantitative estimate of the phenological stage of plants on a given sheet (i.e., the phenological index or PI), the ML and manually-derived PI’s were highly concordant. Moreover, herbarium specimen age had no effect on the estimated PI of a given sheet. Finally, including ML-derived PIs as predictor variables in phenological models produced estimates of the phenological sensitivity of this species to climate, temporal shifts in flowering time, and the rate of phenological progression that are indistinguishable from those produced by models based on data provided by human observers. This study demonstrates that phenological data extracted using machine learning can be used reliably to estimate the phenological stage of herbarium specimens and to detect phenological patterns.
The Effect of Soil-Climate Conditions, Farmyard Manure and Mineral Fertilizers on Potato Yield and Soil Chemical Parameters
Authors: Hlisnikovský Lukáš , Menšík Ladislav , Kunzová Eva
Published: November 2021

If available to farmers, potatoes represent a crop classically fertilized with farmyard manure in the Czech Republic. At the same time, potatoes are a crop sensitive to soil–climate conditions. We evaluated the effect of cattle manure (FYM), manure and mineral nitrogen (FYM + N1, FYM + N2), manure and mineral fertilizers (FYM + N1PK, FYM + N2PK, FYM + N3PK) application and the effect of three soil-climatic conditions (Caslav—maize production area with degraded Chernozem, Ivanovice—maize production area with Chernozem, Lukavec—potatoes production area with Cambisol) over four years (2016–2019) on potatoes yield and soil chemical properties. Of all the factors, yields were most affected by location. Lukavec provided the highest average yields (37.2 t ha−1), followed by Ivanovice (23.5 t ha−1) and Caslav (15.5 t ha−1). The second most important factor was the climatic conditions of the year. Fertilization was the third most important parameter. FYM significantly increased yields compared to Control, but applied alone cannot cover the needs of potatoes. Similarly, the application of FYM and N increases yields, but for the highest yields, it is best to apply FYM + NPK (80 kg ha−1 N). Co-application of FYM and mineral N fertilizers mitigates the negative impact of mineral N on soil pH.
Enriched CO2 and Root-Associated Fungi (Mycorrhizae) Yield Inverse Effects on Plant Mass and Root Morphology in Six Asclepias Species
Authors: Malik Rondy J. , Bever James D.
Published: November 2021

While milkweeds (Asclepias spp.) are important for sustaining biodiversity in marginal ecosystems, CO2 flux may afflict Asclepias species and cause detriment to native communities. Negative CO2-induced effects may be mitigated through mycorrhizal associations. In this study, we sought to determine how mycorrhizae interacts with CO2 to influence Asclepias biomass and root morphology. A broad range of Asclepias species (n = 6) were chosen for this study, including four tap-root species (A. sullivantii, A. syriaca, A. tuberosa, and A. viridis) and two fibrous root species (A. incarnata and A. verticillata). Collectively, the six Asclepias species were manipulated under a 2 × 2 full-factorial design that featured two mycorrhizal levels (−/+ mycorrhizae) and two CO2 levels (ambient and enriched (i.e., 3.5× ambient)). After a duration of 10 months, Asclepias responses were assessed as whole dry weight (i.e., biomass) and relative transportive root. Relative transportive root is the percent difference in the diameter of highest order root (transportive root) versus that of first-order absorptive roots. Results revealed an asymmetrical response, as mycorrhizae increased Asclepias biomass by ~12-fold, while enriched CO2 decreased biomass by about 25%. CO2 did not impact relative transportive roots, but mycorrhizae increased root organ’s response by more than 20%. Interactions with CO2 and mycorrhizae were observed for both biomass and root morphology (i.e., relative transportive root). A gene associated with CO2 fixation (rbcL) revealed that the two fibrous root species formed a phylogenetic clade that was distant from the four tap-root species. The effect of mycorrhizae was most profound in tap-root systems, as mycorrhizae modified the highest order root into tuber-like structures. A strong positive correlation was observed with biomass and relative transportive root. This study elucidates the interplay with roots, mycorrhizae, and CO2, while providing a potential pathway for mycorrhizae to ameliorate CO2 induced effects.
Identification of Renoprotective Phytosterols from Mulberry (Morus alba) Fruit against Cisplatin-Induced Cytotoxicity in LLC-PK1 Kidney Cells
Authors: Lee Dahae , Lee Seoung Rak , Park Bang Ju , Song Ji Hoon , Kim Jung Kyu , Ko Yuri , Kang Ki Sung , Kim Ki Hyun
Published: November 2021

The aim of this study was to explore the protective effects of bioactive compounds from the fruit of the mulberry tree (Morus alba L.) against cisplatin-induced apoptosis in LLC-PK1 pig kidney epithelial cells. Morus alba fruit is a well-known edible fruit commonly used in traditional folk medicine. Chemical investigation of M. alba fruit resulted in the isolation and identification of six phytosterols (1–6). Their structures were determined as 7-ketositosterol (1), stigmast-4-en-3β-ol-6-one (2), (3β,6α)-stigmast-4-ene-3,6-diol (3), stigmast-4-ene-3β,6β-diol (4), 7β-hydroxysitosterol 3-O-β-d-glucoside (5), and 7α-hydroxysitosterol 3-O-β-d-glucoside (6) by analyzing their physical and spectroscopic data as well as liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry data. All compounds displayed protective effects against cisplatin-induced LLC-PK1 cell damage, improving cisplatin-induced cytotoxicity to more than 80% of the control value. Compound 1 displayed the best effect at a relatively low concentration by inhibiting the percentage of apoptotic cells following cisplatin treatment. Its molecular mechanisms were identified using Western blot assays. Treatment of LLC-PK1 cells with compound 1 decreased the upregulated phosphorylation of p38 and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) following cisplatin treatment. In addition, compound 1 significantly suppressed cleaved caspase-3 in cisplatin-induced LLC-PK1 cells. Taken together, these findings indicated that cisplatin-induced apoptosis was significantly inhibited by compound 1 in LLC-PK1 cells, thereby supporting the potential of 7-ketositosterol (1) as an adjuvant candidate for treating cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity.
A Review of Structural Adhesive Joints in Hybrid Joining Processes
Authors: Maggiore Sofia , Banea Mariana D. , Stagnaro Paola , Luciano Giorgio
Published: November 2021

Hybrid joining (HJ) is the combination of two or more joining techniques to produce joints with enhanced properties in comparison to those obtained from their parent techniques. Their adoption is widespread (metal to metal joint, composite to composite and composite to metal) and is present in a vast range of applications including all industrial sectors, from automotive to aerospace, including naval, construction, mechanical and utilities. The objective of this literature review is to summarize the existing research on hybrid joining processes incorporating structural adhesives highlighting their field of application and to present the recent development in this field. To achieve this goal, the first part presents an introduction on the main class of adhesives, subdivided by their chemical nature (epoxy, polyurethane, acrylic and cyanoacrylate, anaerobic and high-temperature adhesives) The second part describes the most commonly used Hybrid Joining (HJ) techniques (mechanical fastening and adhesive bonding, welding processes and adhesive bonding) The third part of the review is about the application of adhesives in dependence of performance, advantage and disadvantage in the hybrid joining processes. Finally, conclusions and an outlook on critical challenges, future perspectives and research activities are summarized. It was concluded that the use of hybrid joining technology could be considered as a potential solution in various industries, in order to reduce the mass as well as the manufacturing cost.
Design of Novel PLA/OMMT Films with Improved Gas Barrier and Mechanical Properties by Intercalating OMMT Interlayer with High Gas Barrier Polymers
Authors: Shar Abdul Shakoor , Zhang Caili , Song Xieqing , Weng Yunxuan , Du Qiuyue
Published: November 2021

Polymer/clay composites are an innovative class of materials. In this study, we present a facile method for the preparation of biodegradable and robust PLA/organomodified montmorillonite (OMMT) composite films with excellent gas barrier performance. When the design of PLA/OMMT composite films, in addition to making OMMT have good intercalation effect in the matrix, the compatibility of intercalating polymer and matrix should also be considered. In this work, two polymers with high gas barrier properties, namely poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVOH), were selected to intercalate OMMT. The morphology and microstructures of the prepared PLA/PVA/OMMT and PLA/EVOH/OMMT composites were characterized by the X-ray diffraction measurement, scanning electron microscopy, and differential scanning calorimetry. It was shown that the good dispersibility of PVA in the PLA matrix, rather than the intercalation effect, was responsible for the improved gas barrier and mechanical properties of PLA/PVA/OMMT composite. The elongation at break increases from 4.5% to 22.7% when 1 wt % PVA is added to PLA/OMMT. Moreover, gas barrier of PLA/PVA1/OMMT measured as O2 permeability is 52.8% higher than that of neat PLA. This work provides a route to intercalate OMMT interlayer with high gas barrier polymers and thus can be a useful reference to fabricate PLA/OMMT composites with improved gas barrier and mechanical properties. A comparison of oxygen permeabilities with existing commercial packaging films indicates that the biodegradable PLA/PVA/OMMT may serve as a viable substitute for packaging film applications.
Islamism, Islamic Modernism and the Search for Modern Authenticity in an Imaginary Past
Authors: Jung Dietrich
Published: November 2021

How to be authentically modern? This was the pervasive question behind the ideological elaborations of numerous religious and nationalist movements toward the end of the nineteenth century. Many of them attempted to find the answer in an imaginary past. This article claims that Islamist movements are not an exception, but rather an affirmation of this rule. The orientation towards a “golden age” of Islam and its allegedly authentic Islamic way of life has been a crucial feature of Islamist thought across all national, sectarian and ideological divides. The article traces this invocation of the past historically back to the construction of specifically Islamic forms of modernity by representatives of Islamic modernism in the second half of the nineteenth century. Interpreting their modernist thought in the context of more global nineteenth-century concepts and narratives, the article argues from a comparative perspective that Islamic modernism laid the foundations for the ways in which Islamist thinkers have constructed both individual and collective forms of Muslim identities.