bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring Cloud-Based Bookstore Continuance from a Deconstructed Task–Technology Fit Perspective
Authors: Hung Ming-Chien , Talley Paul C. , Kuo Kuang-Ming , Chiu Mai-Lun
Published: November 2020

In an effort to help organizations understand consumers, our study deconstructs task–technology fit into two segments: ideal task–technology fit and individual use context–technology fit. Users’ continuous use of cloud-based bookstores is studied through survey methodology to collect consumer experience data related to the use of such cloud-based bookstores. In total, 185 samples were collected. Analytical results demonstrated that both ideal task–technology fit and individual use context–technology fit were significantly associated with the confirmation of users’ expectations as related to cloud-based bookstores. Expectation confirmation and ideal task–technology fit also have a significant link to users’ perceived usefulness and satisfaction, respectively. Furthermore, perceived usefulness significantly predicts satisfaction. Finally, perceived usefulness and satisfaction are also significantly associated with a users’ continuous use of cloud-based bookstores. As a result of this study’s findings, system administrators may foster suitable strategies for an improvement of users’ continuous use of cloud-based bookstores.
Impact of Value Cocreation on Customer Satisfaction and Loyalty of Online Car-Hailing Services
Authors: Jin Rui , Chen Kai
Published: November 2020

The theory of value cocreation has been applied widely in the research of a lot of fields, including the field of travelling. At present, online shared cars have become one of the main modes of travel for urban residents, which have caused people to think about the quality of its service and its customer satisfaction. The objective of this research is to explore the impact of value cocreation by both the platform and drivers on customer satisfaction and user loyalty using Didi as an example. We propose five factors that can measure value cocreation behaviors, among which system availability and privacy count for value cocreation by online platform and perceived usability, consistency and competence are indicators of value cocreation by drivers. In total, 338 questionnaires were distributed to retrieve data and further investigate the users’ willingness of taking shared-cars, their satisfaction and loyalty towards Didi in order to help the corporate progress. This study provides suggestions for service-oriented corporations related to the sharing economy in order to enhance their user loyalty as well as improve their management ability.
Gender Inequality and Symbolic Violence in Women’s Access to Family Land in the Southern Highlands of Tanzania
Authors: Lusasi Justin , Mwaseba Dismas
Published: November 2020

We set out to unveil gender inequality with respect to women’s access to family land following the surge in tree-planting in selected villages in the Southern Highlands of Tanzania. Specifically, the study describes land-transaction procedures at the household level and shows how the lack of women’s involvement in such land transactions affect their access to and control over family lands. Gender inequality is portrayed in a variety of social and economic activities, with women being deprived of access to, control over, and ownership of land. Although the current land laws address gender inequalities pertaining to women’s access to, ownership of, and control over land, the impact of such reforms has been minimal. Drawing on Bourdieu’s concept of symbolic violence, we reveal how women suffer symbolic violence through traditional practices of land management and administration. Societies in the studied villages are strongly patriarchal, with men being dominant and women subordinate. In such a patriarchal system, women’s empowerment is urgent. Women require knowledge and awareness of the laws and regulations that affirm their rights not only to family lands, but also to participation in decision-making processes regarding family assets. We recommend non-oppressive approaches to natural-resource management. As such, we call for existing authorities at the village and district levels, Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and legal bodies to promote gender equality in land-management practices. We also advocate dialectical communication between women and men in order to reveal and heal practices of symbolic violence, and enhance gender equality in respect of access to land and its control and ownership in villages in the Southern Highlands of Tanzania. Effective implementation of existing land laws and regulations that address gender inequality and associated violence is unavoidable.
A GIS-Based Multicriteria Index to Evaluate the Mechanisability Potential of Italian Vineyard Area
Authors: Cogato Alessia , Pezzuolo Andrea , Sørensen Claus Grøn , De Bei Roberta , Sozzi Marco , Marinello Francesco
Published: November 2020

Planting criteria of new vineyards should comply with rational and sustainable criteria, taking into account the potential mechanisability of existing viticultural areas. However, an established methodology for this assessment is still lacking. This study aimed at analysing the parameters which influence the vineyard mechanisability, with the objective to propose a new mechanisability index. The mechanisability index proposed was based on GIS-analysis of landscape and management parameters such as mean slope, shape of the vineyard block, length-width ratio, headland size, training system and row spacing. We identified a sample of 3686 vineyards in Italy. Based on the above-mentioned parameters, vineyards were categorised by their level of mechanisability (l.m.) into four classes. Moreover, we analysed the correlation between l.m. and economic indicators (area planted with vineyard and wine production). Results showed that the main factors limiting the mechanisability potential of some Italian regions are the elevated slopes, horizontal training systems and narrow vine spacings. The l.m. showed a moderate positive correlation with the size of vineyards and the volume and value of production. The methodology presented in this study may be easily applied to other viticultural areas around the world, serving as a management decision-making tool.
Effect of Acetaminophen (APAP) on Physiological Indicators in Lactuca sativa
Authors: Kudrna Jiri , Hnilicka Frantisek , Kubes Jan , Vachova Pavla , Hnilickova Helena , Kuklova Margita
Published: November 2020

This study analyzes the effects of acetaminophen (APAP) as a contaminant on physiological characteristics of lettuce plants (Lactuca sativa L.). Experiments were provided in an experimental greenhouse with semi-controlled conditions. The effect of different amounts of contaminant was evaluated by using regression analysis. Plants were grown in five concentrations of APAP: 0 µM, 5 µM, 50 µM, 500 µM, and 5 mM for 14 days in two variants, acute and chronic. The obtained results show that the monitored parameters were demonstrably influenced by the experimental variant. Plants are more sensitive to chronic contamination compared to acute. Significant (p < 0.05) deviation in photosynthesis and fluorescence was observed compared to the control in different variants. The highest doses of APAP reduced the intensity of photosynthesis by a maximum of more than 31% compared to the control. A reduction of 18% was observed for the fluorescence parameters. Pronounced correlation was described between chlorophyll fluorescence parameters and yield mainly under APAP conditions. The amount of chlorophyll was influenced by exposure to APAP.
Human Mitochondrial Pathologies of the Respiratory Chain and ATP Synthase: Contributions from Studies of Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Franco Leticia V. R. , Bremner Luca , Barros Mario H.
Published: November 2020

The ease with which the unicellular yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae can be manipulated genetically and biochemically has established this organism as a good model for the study of human mitochondrial diseases. The combined use of biochemical and molecular genetic tools has been instrumental in elucidating the functions of numerous yeast nuclear gene products with human homologs that affect a large number of metabolic and biological processes, including those housed in mitochondria. These include structural and catalytic subunits of enzymes and protein factors that impinge on the biogenesis of the respiratory chain. This article will review what is currently known about the genetics and clinical phenotypes of mitochondrial diseases of the respiratory chain and ATP synthase, with special emphasis on the contribution of information gained from pet mutants with mutations in nuclear genes that impair mitochondrial respiration. Our intent is to provide the yeast mitochondrial specialist with basic knowledge of human mitochondrial pathologies and the human specialist with information on how genes that directly and indirectly affect respiration were identified and characterized in yeast.
Prognostic Role of FGFR3 Expression Status and Tumor-Related MicroRNAs Level in Association with PD-L1 Expression in Primary Luminal Non-Muscular Invasive Bladder Carcinoma
Authors: Blinova Ekaterina , Buzdin Anton , Enikeev Dmitry , Roshchin Dmitry , Suntsova Maria , Samyshina Elena , Drobyshev Aleksey , Deryabina Olga , Demura Tatiana , Blinov Dmitry , Shich Evgenia , Barakat Haydar , Borger Pieter , Merinov Dmitrij , Kachmazov Aleksandr , Serebrianyi Stanislav , Tumutolova Oxana , Potoldykova Natalia , Zhdanov Pavel , Grigoryan Vagarshak , Perepechin Dmitrij
Published: November 2020

Background: bladder cancer is one of the most common urinary tract malignancies. Establishment of robust predictors of disease progression and outcome is important for personalizing treatment of non-muscular invasive bladder carcinoma (NMIBC). In this study we evaluated association of PD-L1 expression with other prognostic biomarkers, such as expression of miRNA-145 and miRNA-200a, FGFR3 gene expression, and mutation status in tissue specimens of the luminal subtype of newly diagnosed high and low grade NMIBC. Methods: twenty patients with primary luminal NMIBC were enrolled in the study. Tumor grade and risk level were determined in accordance with European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) guidelines and World Health Organization (WHO) classification. Neoplasm molecular subtype and PD-L1 expression level were assessed by immunohistochemistry. We used real-time PCR to evaluate the expression of microRNAs and FGFR3. We detected FGFR3 hotspot mutations in codons 248 and 249 by Sanger sequencing. Results: high grade primary luminal NMIBC showed comparatively higher expression of PD-L1 and microRNA-145 than a low grade tumor, whereas the latter had a higher FGFR3 expression and hotspot mutation rate. The tumor grade (HR = 571.72 [11.03–2.96] p = 0.002), PD-L1 expression (HR = 2.33 [0.92–1.92] p = 0.012), and FGFR3 expression (HR = 0.08 [0.17–0.42] p = 0.003) were associated with relapse-free survival. Conclusions: tumor grade in association with PD-L1 and FGFR3 expression can be considered as a complex predictor for primary luminal NMIBC progression.
Effect of Applied Cathodic Potential on Friction and Wear Behavior of CoCrMo Alloy in NaCl Solution
Authors: Sun Yong , Bailey Richard
Published: November 2020

Most of the reported work on the effect of applied potential on tribocorrosion or corrosive wear of metallic alloys in a corrosive environment were conducted at anodic potentials. Limited tests have been conducted at cathodic potentials for comparison purposes or to derive the pure mechanical wear component in tribocorrosion. This work investigated the effect of cathodic potential on the friction and wear behaviour of an important biomedical alloy, CoCrMo, sliding against an Al2O3 slider in 0.9% NaCl solution at 37 °C. High friction was found at cathodic potentials close to the open circuit potential, where mechanical wear played a predominant role in material removal. At potentials more cathodic than the hydrogen charging potential, low friction and low wear were observed. The coefficient of friction (COF) and total material loss decreased with increasing cathodic potential, such that at −1000 mV (saturated calomel electrode, SCE), extremely low COF values, as low as 0.02, and negligible material loss were obtained. Such reductions in friction and wear at increasing cathodic potentials were accompanied with the formation of parallel lines in the sliding track and were gradually diminished with increasing applied contact load. It is believed that hydrogen charging and hydrogen segregated layer formation at the surface are responsible for such a phenomenon. It can also be concluded that it is difficult to derive the pure mechanical wear component in tribocorrosion by simply conducting a test at an arbitrary cathodic potential.
6-Nitro-7-tosylquinazolin-4(3H)-one
Authors: Nguyen Thi Ngoc , Tran Thi Phuong Thuy , Vu Thi Hoang Mai , Nguyen Hoa Binh , Dao Nguyet Suong Huyen , Nguyen Van Giang , Nguyen Dinh Luyen , Trinh Nguyen Trieu , Nguyen Van Hai
Published: November 2020

Sulfones are important building blocks in the construction of biologically active molecules or functional materials. The sulfonyl functional group in sulfones is so versatile that it can act as either a nucleophile, an electrophile, or a radical in different organic reactions. Recently, quinazoline sulfones have been used to build asymmetrical ether derivatives as inhibitors of signaling pathways governed by tyrosine kinases and the epidermal growth factor-receptor. In this paper, we report a facile synthesis of a novel quinazoline sulfone, 6-nitro-7-tosylquinazolin-4(3H)-one (III), using the modified protocol from 7-chloro-6-nitroquinazolin-4(3H)-one (I) and sodium p-toluenesulfinate (II). The structure of the title compound III was determined using mass-spectrometry, FT-IR, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, DEPT, HSQC (Heteronuclear single quantum coherence), HMBC (Heteronuclear Multiple Bond Correlation Spectroscopy) spectroscopies, and PXRD analysis.
Flame Retardancy of Biobased Composites—Research Development
Authors: Sienkiewicz Anna , Czub Piotr
Published: November 2020

Due to the thermal and fire sensitivity of polymer bio-composite materials, especially in the case of plant-based fillers applied for them, next to intensive research on the better mechanical performance of composites, it is extremely important to improve their reaction to fire. This is necessary due to the current widespread practical use of bio-based composites. The first part of this work relates to an overview of the most commonly used techniques and different approaches towards the increasing the fire resistance of petrochemical-based polymeric materials. The next few sections present commonly used methods of reducing the flammability of polymers and characterize the most frequently used compounds. It is highlighted that despite adverse health effects in animals and humans, some of mentioned fire retardants (such as halogenated organic derivatives e.g., hexabromocyclododecane, polybrominated diphenyl ether) are unfortunately also still in use, even for bio-composite materials. The most recent studies related to the development of the flame retardation of polymeric materials are then summarized. Particular attention is paid to the issue of flame retardation of bio-based polymer composites and the specifics of reducing the flammability of these materials. Strategies for retarding composites are discussed on examples of particular bio-polymers (such as: polylactide, polyhydroxyalkanoates or polyamide-11), as well as polymers obtained on the basis of natural raw materials (e.g., bio-based polyurethanes or bio-based epoxies). The advantages and disadvantages of these strategies, as well as the flame retardants used in them, are highlighted.
Dynamic Testing of Lime-Tree (Tilia Europoea) and Pine (Pinaceae) for Wood Model Identification
Authors: Bragov Anatoly , Igumnov Leonid , dell’Isola Francesco , Konstantinov Alexander , Lomunov Andrey , Iuzhina Tatiana
Published: November 2020

The paper presents the results of dynamic testing of two wood species: lime-tree (Tilia europoea) and pine (Pinaceae). The dynamic compressive tests were carried out using the traditional Kolsky method in compression tests. The Kolsky method was modified for testing the specimen in a rigid limiting holder. In the first case, stress–strain diagrams for uniaxial stress state were obtained, while in the second, for uniaxial deformation. To create the load a gas gun was used. According to the results of the experiments, dynamic stress–strain diagrams were obtained. The limiting strength and deformation characteristics were determined. The fracture energy of lime and pine depending on the type of test was also obtained. The strain rates and stress growth rates were determined. The influence of the cutting angle of the specimens relative to the grain was noted. Based on the results obtained, the necessary parameters of the wood model were determined and their adequacy was assessed by using a special verification experiment.
Special Issue: Optical Characterizations of Novel Composite and Optically Active Materials
Authors: Perova Tatiana
Published: November 2020

Market pressures have placed new demands on modern photonic and opto-electronic materials, including requirements for miniaturization, higher efficiency, tunable and controllable optical and electrical properties, and consistent performance [...]
The Effect of an External Magnetic Field on the Aspect Ratio and Heat Input of Gas-Metal-Arc-Welded AZ31B Alloy Weld Joints Using a Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Sharma Pankaj , Chattopadhyaya Somnath , Singh Nirmal Kumar , Bogdan-Chudy Marta , Krolczyk Grzegorz
Published: November 2020

This study attempted to analyze and optimize the effect of an external magnetic field (EMF) on the aspect ratio and heat input for AZ31B weld joints that were welded using the gas metal arc welding (GMAW) process. The response surface methodology (RSM) was adopted for the critical analysis, and subsequently, mathematical models were developed based on the experimental results. It was observed that the EMF and its interaction with the wire feed rate significantly affected the aspect ratio and heat input, respectively. At 119 G (magnetic field), 700 mm/min (welding speed), 5.8 m/min feed rate, and 11.5 L/min (gas flow rate), the aspect ratio was 2.26, and the corresponding heat input factor (HIf) was 0.8 with almost full weld penetration.
Anatase Forming Treatment without Surface Morphological Alteration of Dental Implant
Authors: Lupi Saturnino Marco , Albini Benedetta , Rodriguez y Baena Arianna , Lanfrè Giulia , Galinetto Pietro
Published: November 2020

The osseointegration of titanium implants is allowed by the TiO2 layer that covers the implants. Titania can exist in amorphous form or in three different crystalline conformations: anatase, rutile and brookite. Few studies have characterized TiO2 covering the surface of dental implants from the crystalline point of view. The aim of the present study was to characterize the evolution of the TiO2 layer following different surface treatments from a crystallographic point of view. Commercially pure titanium and Ti-6Al-4V implants subjected to different surface treatments were analyzed by Raman spectroscopy to evaluate the crystalline conformation of titania. The surface treatments evaluated were: machining, sandblasting, sandblasting and etching and sandblasting, etching and anodization. The anodizing treatment evaluated in this study allowed to obtain anatase on commercially pure titanium implants without altering the morphological characteristics of the surface.
Explorations of Magnetic Properties of Noble Gases: The Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Makulski Włodzimierz
Published: November 2020

In recent years, we have seen spectacular growth in the experimental and theoretical investigations of magnetic properties of small subatomic particles: electrons, positrons, muons, and neutrinos. However, conventional methods for establishing these properties for atomic nuclei are also in progress, due to new, more sophisticated theoretical achievements and experimental results performed using modern spectroscopic devices. In this review, a brief outline of the history of experiments with nuclear magnetic moments in magnetic fields of noble gases is provided. In particular, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and atomic beam magnetic resonance (ABMR) measurements are included in this text. Various aspects of NMR methodology performed in the gas phase are discussed in detail. The basic achievements of this research are reviewed, and the main features of the methods for the noble gas isotopes: 3He, 21Ne, 83Kr, 129Xe, and 131Xe are clarified. A comprehensive description of short lived isotopes of argon (Ar) and radon (Rn) measurements is included. Remarks on the theoretical calculations and future experimental intentions of nuclear magnetic moments of noble gases are also provided.
An Integral Equation Approach to the Irreversible Investment Problem with a Finite Horizon
Authors: Jeon Junkee , Kim Geonwoo
Published: November 2020

This paper studies an irreversible investment problem under a finite horizon. The firm expands its production capacity in irreversible investments by purchasing capital to increase productivity. This problem is a singular stochastic control problem and its associated Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman equation is derived. By using a Mellin transform, we obtain the integral equation satisfied by the free boundary of this investment problem. Furthermore, we solve the integral equation numerically using the recursive integration method and present the graph for the free boundary.
Valuation of Exchange Option with Credit Risk in a Hybrid Model
Authors: Kim Geonwoo
Published: November 2020

In this paper, the valuation of the exchange option with credit risk under a hybrid credit risk model is investigated. In order to build the hybrid model, we consider both the reduced-form model and the structural model. We adopt the probabilistic approach to derive the closed-form formula of an exchange option price with credit risk under the proposed model. Specifically, the change of measure technique is used repeatedly, and the pricing formula is provided as the standard normal cumulative distribution functions.
On the Normalization of Interval Data
Authors: Santiago Regivan , Bergamaschi Flaulles , Bustince Humberto , Dimuro Graçaliz , Asmus Tiago , Sanz José Antonio
Published: November 2020

The impreciseness of numeric input data can be expressed by intervals. On the other hand, the normalization of numeric data is a usual process in many applications. How do we match the normalization with impreciseness on numeric data? A straightforward answer is that it is enough to apply a correct interval arithmetic, since the normalized exact value will be enclosed in the resulting “normalized” interval. This paper shows that this approach is not enough since the resulting “normalized” interval can be even wider than the input intervals. So, we propose a pair of axioms that must be satisfied by an interval arithmetic in order to be applied in the normalization of intervals. We show how some known interval arithmetics behave with respect to these axioms. The paper ends with a discussion about the current paradigm of interval computations.
Antimicrobial Meroterpenoids and Erythritol Derivatives Isolated from the Marine-Algal-Derived Endophytic Fungus Penicillium chrysogenum XNM-12
Authors: Xu Kuo , Wei Xu-Lun , Xue Lin , Zhang Zhong-Feng , Zhang Peng
Published: November 2020

One new meroterpenoid-type alkaloid, oxalicine C (1), and two new erythritol derivatives, penicierythritols A (6) and B (7), together with four known meroterpenoids (2–5), were isolated from the marine algal-derived endophytic fungus Penicillium chrysogenum XNM-12. Their planar structures were determined by means of spectroscopic analyses, including UV, 1D and 2D NMR, and HRESIMS spectra. Their stereochemical configurations were established by comparing the experimental and calculated electronic circular dichroism (ECD) spectra for compound 1, as well as by comparison of the optical rotations with literature data for compounds 6 and 7. Notably, oxalicine C (1) represents the first example of an oxalicine alkaloid with a cleaved α-pyrone ring, whereas penicierythritols A (6) and B (7) are the first reported from the Penicillium species. The antimicrobial activities of compounds 1–7 were evaluated. Compounds 1 and 6 exhibited moderate antibacterial effects against the plant pathogen Ralstonia solanacearum with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of 8 and 4 μg/mL, respectively. Compound 6 also possesses moderate antifungal properties against the plant pathogen Alternaria alternata with a MIC value of 8 μg/mL.
Oxygenated Acyclic Diterpenes with Anticancer Activity from the Irish Brown Seaweed Bifurcaria bifurcata
Authors: Smyrniotopoulos Vangelis , Merten Christian , Firsova Daria , Fearnhead Howard , Tasdemir Deniz
Published: November 2020

Brown alga Bifurcaria bifurcata is a prolific source of bioactive acyclic (linear) diterpenes with high structural diversity. In the continuation of our investigations on Irish brown algae, we undertook an in-depth chemical study on the n-hexanes and chloroform subextracts of B. bifurcata that led to isolation of six new (1–6) and two known (7–8) acyclic diterpenes. Chemical structures of the compounds were elucidated by a combination of 1D and 2D NMR, HRMS, FT-IR, [α]D and vibrational circular dichroism (VCD) spectroscopy. Compounds 1–8, as well as three additional linear diterpenes (9–11), which we isolated from the same seaweed before, were tested against the human breast cancer cell line (MDA-MB-231). Several compounds moderately inhibited the growth of the MDA-MB-231 cell line with IC50 values ranging from 11.6 to 32.0 μg/mL. The present study carried out on the lipophilic extracts of the Irish B. bifurcata shows the enormous capacity of this seaweed to produce a large palette of acyclic diterpenes with diverse oxygenation and substitution patterns and promising bioactivities.
Efficacy of the Arteriovenous Loop for Free Flap Reconstruction in Patients with Complex Limb Trauma: Case Series and Literature Review
Authors: Marchesini Andrea , Senesi Letizia , De Francesco Francesco , Pangrazi Pier Paolo , Campodonico Andrea , Politano Rocco , Riccio Michele
Published: November 2020

Background and objectives: Complex limb traumas are commonly treated with microsurgical reconstruction and free flaps. However, complications are frequent in patients affected by a previous trauma or comorbidity, atheromasia and a single valid vessel. Free flap reconstruction is indeed a challenging procedure in complex injuries, which may increase the risk of limb ischemia. The Arteriovenous loop (AVL) technique may be considered an efficient alternative treatment. We herein report our procedure and previous research regarding the AVL method using a two-step reconstruction in cases of complex high-energy limb injuries. Materials and Methods: In this single center retrospective cohort study, all the patients from 2014 to 2018 who underwent to AVL reconstruction were assessed. A total of six patients were included in the study for traumatic limb trauma. The two-stage technique was performed each time. The age and sex of patient, the time between stage one and two, the length of AVL loop and rate of free flap success were evaluated. Results: A total of seven AVL reconstructions were performed. The mean age of patients was 36 years old. Eight free flaps were performed; six free flaps were transferred to the vascular loops. The average time between stage one and two was 13 days. The mean length of the pedicle was 25 cm for the upper limb and 33.7 cm for the lower limb. All the free flaps successfully take root. In one case, a surgical revision was required the second day post-operatory due to venous congestion. Conclusions: AVL is a useful and safe technique in microsurgical reconstruction which will prevent vascular complications. Our investigations suggest the efficacy and feasibility of a two-step intervention in acute post-traumatic events. A single-step procedure should be preferred in chronic situation and oncologic reconstruction.
Newly Developed Pediatric Membrane Oxygenator that Suppresses Excessive Pressure Drop in Cardiopulmonary Bypass and Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO)
Authors: Fukuda Makoto , Tokumine Asako , Noda Kyohei , Sakai Kiyotaka
Published: November 2020

This article developes a pediatric membrane oxygenator that is compact, high performance, and highly safe. This novel experimental approach, which imaging the inside of a membrane oxygenator during fluid perfusion using high-power X-ray CT, identifies air and blood retention in the local part of a membrane oxygenator. The cause of excessive pressure drop in a membrane oxygenator, which has been the most serious dysfunction in cardiovascular surgery and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), is the local retention of blood and air inside the oxygenator. Our designed blood flow channel for a membrane oxygenator has a circular channel and minimizes the boundary between laminated parts. The pressure drop in the blood flow channel is reduced, and the maximum gas transfer rates are increased by using this pediatric membrane oxygenator, as compared with the conventional oxygenator. Furthermore, it would be possible to reduce the incidents, which have occurred clinically, due to excessive pressure drop in the blood flow channel of the membrane oxygenator. The membrane oxygenator is said to be the “last stronghold” for patients with COVID-19 receiving ECMO treatment. Accordingly, the specification of our prototype is promising for low weight and pediatric patients.
Influence of Cholesterol on the Orientation of the Farnesylated GTP-Bound KRas-4B Binding with Anionic Model Membranes
Authors: Lu Huixia , Martí Jordi
Published: November 2020

The Ras family of proteins is tethered to the inner leaflet of the cell membranes which plays an essential role in signal transduction pathways that promote cellular proliferation, survival, growth, and differentiation. KRas-4B, the most mutated Ras isoform in different cancers, has been under extensive study for more than two decades. Here we have focused our interest on the influence of cholesterol on the orientations that KRas-4B adopts with respect to the plane of the anionic model membranes. How cholesterol in the bilayer might modulate preferences for specific orientation states is far from clear. Herein, after analyzing data from in total 4000 ns-long molecular dynamics (MD) simulations for four KRas-4B systems, properties such as the area per lipid and thickness of the membrane as well as selected radial distribution functions, penetration of different moieties of KRas-4B, and internal conformational fluctuations of flexible moieties in KRas-4B have been calculated. It has been shown that high cholesterol content in the plasma membrane (PM) favors one orientation state (OS1), exposing the effector-binding loop for signal transduction in the cell from the atomic level. We confirm that high cholesterol in the PM helps KRas-4B mutant stay in its constitutively active state, which suggests that high cholesterol intake can increase mortality and may promote cancer progression for cancer patients. We propose that during the treatment of KRas-4B-related cancers, reducing the cholesterol level in the PM and sustaining cancer progression by controlling the plasma cholesterol intake might be taken into account in anti-cancer therapies.
Recent Progress in the Engineering of Polymeric Membranes for CO2 Capture from Flue Gas
Authors: Han Yang , Yang Yutong , Ho W. S. Winston
Published: November 2020

CO2 capture from coal- or natural gas-derived flue gas has been widely considered as the next opportunity for the large-scale deployment of gas separation membranes. Despite the tremendous progress made in the synthesis of polymeric membranes with high CO2/N2 separation performance, only a few membrane technologies were advanced to the bench-scale study or above from a highly idealized laboratory setting. Therefore, the recent progress in polymeric membranes is reviewed in the perspectives of capture system energetics, process synthesis, membrane scale-up, modular fabrication, and field tests. These engineering considerations can provide a holistic approach to better guide membrane research and accelerate the commercialization of gas separation membranes for post-combustion carbon capture.
Evaluation of the Use of Electric Arc Furnace Slag and Ladle Furnace Slag in Stone Mastic Asphalt Mixes with Discarded Cellulose Fibers from the Papermaking Industry
Authors: Terrones-Saeta Juan María , Suárez-Macías Jorge , Iglesias-Godino Francisco Javier , Corpas-Iglesias Francisco Antonio
Published: November 2020

The construction sector is one of the most demanding of raw materials that exist at present. In turn, the greenhouse gas emissions that it produces are important. Therefore, at present there are several lines of research in which industrial by-products are incorporated for the manufacture of bituminous mixtures and the reduction of CO2 emissions, framed inside the circular economy. On the base of the aforementioned, in this research, bituminous mixtures of the Stone Mastic Asphalt type were developed with electric arc furnace slag, ladle furnace slag and discarded cellulose fibers from the papermaking industry. To this end, the waste is first characterized physically and chemically, and its properties evaluated for use in bituminous mixtures. Later, different groups of samples are conformed with conventional materials and with the waste in order to be able to compare the physical and mechanical properties of the obtained bituminous mixtures. The physical tests carried out were bulk density, maximum density and void index, as well as the Marshall test for the evaluation of the strength and plastic deformations of all the bituminous mixtures manufactured. The study and evaluation of the results showed that the incorporation of slag makes it possible to absorb a greater percentage of bitumen and obtain better mechanical properties, while maintaining a similar deformation and void content. Therefore, it is feasible to use the mentioned slags to create sustainable, resistant and suitable pavements for important traffic.
Sensitivity Analysis in the Modelling of a High Speed Steel Thin-Wall Produced by Directed Energy Deposition
Authors: Jardin Rúben Tome , Tuninetti Víctor , Tchuindjang Jérôme Tchoufang , Hashemi Neda , Carrus Raoul , Mertens Anne , Duchêne Laurent , Tran Hoang Son , Habraken Anne Marie
Published: November 2020

This paper reports the sensitivity of the thermal and the displacement histories predicted by a finite element analysis to material properties and boundary conditions of a directed-energy deposition of a M4 high speed steel thin-wall part additively manufactured on a 42CrMo4 steel substrate. The model accuracy was assessed by comparing the simulation results with the experimental measurements such as evolving local temperatures and distortion of the substrate. The numerical results of thermal history were successfully correlated with the solidified microstructures measured by scanning electron microscope technique, explaining the non-uniform, cellular-type grains depending on the deposit layers. Laser power, thermal conductivity, and thermal capacity of deposit and substrate were considered in the sensitivity analysis in order to quantify the effect of their variations on the local thermal history, while Young’s modulus and yield stress variation effects were evaluated on the distortion response of the sample. The laser power showed the highest impact on the thermal history, then came the thermal capacity, then the conductivity. Considering distortion, variations of the Young’s modulus had a higher impact than the yield stress.
Cyclic Performance of End-Plate Biaxial Moment Connection with HSS Columns
Authors: Nuñez Eduardo , Lichtemberg Roberto , Herrera Ricardo
Published: November 2020

This paper presents a numerical study on the seismic performance of end-plate moment connection between I-beam to HSS (hollow structural section) column stiffened by outer diaphragms (EP-HSS). In previous experimental research, this moment connection showed a satisfactory performance according to requirements established in Seismic provisions. However, one type of joint was studied and bidirectional and axial loads were not considered. In this since, several configurations representative of 2D interior joints and 3D interior and exterior joints in a steel building were modeled and subjected to unidirectional or bidirectional cyclic displacements according to protocol in seismic provisions. Firstly, a similar joint configuration was calibrated from experimental data, obtaining an acceptable adjustment. The assessment of seismic performance was based on hysteretic curves, failure mechanisms, stiffness, dissipated energy, and equivalent damping. The results obtained showed a ductile failure modes for 2D and 3D joint configurations with EP-HSS moment connection. The axial load has no significant effect on the moment connection. However, it affects the column strength due to the increase of the stresses in the column wall. Compared with 2D joints, 3D joints reached higher deformations even when a similar number of beams is used. The external diaphragms to the column panel zone provided rigidity in the joints and no degradation of slope for each loop in load/reload segment for elastic loop; therefore, curves without pinching were observed. All inelastic deformation is concentrated mainly in the beams. A moment resistance above 80% of the capacity of the beam at a drift of 4% is achieved in all joints. From the results reached, the use of EP-HSS moment connection with hollow structural section columns is a reliable alternative in seismic zones when steel moment frames are employed.
A Combined Pyro- and Hydrometallurgical Approach to Recycle Pyrolyzed Lithium-Ion Battery Black Mass Part 2: Lithium Recovery from Li Enriched Slag—Thermodynamic Study, Kinetic Study, and Dry Digestion
Authors: Klimko Jakub , Oráč Dušan , Miškufová Andrea , Vonderstein Claudia , Dertmann Christian , Sommerfeld Marcus , Friedrich Bernd , Havlík Tomáš
Published: November 2020

Due to the increasing demand for battery raw materials, such as cobalt, nickel, manganese, and lithium, the extraction of these metals, not only from primary, but also from secondary sources, is becoming increasingly important. Spent lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) represent a potential source of raw materials. One possible approach for an optimized recovery of valuable metals from spent LIBs is a combined pyro- and hydrometallurgical process. The generation of mixed cobalt, nickel, and copper alloy and lithium slag as intermediate products in an electric arc furnace is investigated in part 1. Hydrometallurgical recovery of lithium from the Li slag is investigated in part 2 of this article. Kinetic study has shown that the leaching of slag in H2SO4 takes place according to the 3-dimensional diffusion model and the activation energy is 22–24 kJ/mol. Leaching of the silicon from slag is causing formation of gels, which complicates filtration and further recovery of lithium from solutions. The thermodynamic study presented in the work describes the reasons for the formation of gels and the possibilities of their prevention by SiO2 precipitation. Based on these findings, the Li slag was treated by the dry digestion (DD) method followed by dissolution in water. The silicon leaching efficiency was significantly reduced from 50% in the direct leaching experiment to 5% in the DD experiment followed by dissolution, while the high leaching efficiency of lithium was maintained. The study takes into account the preparation of solutions for the future trouble-free acquisition of marketable products from solutions.
Feeding and Pore Formation in Semisolid Metal Casting
Authors: Jarfors Anders E. W. , Zhang Qing , Jonsson Stefan
Published: November 2020

Semisolid casting can provide excellent castings, but the nature of the pore-forming mechanisms has not been properly clarified. In the current communication, it was suggested that hydrogen precipitated during slurry making might have a decisive role in the formation of both gas and shrinkage porosity. Intensive stirring at the end of the slurry making process may act as a degassing step. Without the intense shearing, structures of primary slurry particles form around the hydrogen pores, strongly affecting pore formation and feeding during the intensification stage.
The Urine Metabolome of Young Autistic Children Correlates with Their Clinical Profile Severity
Authors: Mussap Michele , Siracusano Martina , Noto Antonio , Fattuoni Claudia , Riccioni Assia , Rajula Hema Sekhar Reddy , Fanos Vassilios , Curatolo Paolo , Barberini Luigi , Mazzone Luigi
Published: November 2020

Autism diagnosis is moving from the identification of common inherited genetic variants to a systems biology approach. The aims of the study were to explore metabolic perturbations in autism, to investigate whether the severity of autism core symptoms may be associated with specific metabolic signatures; and to examine whether the urine metabolome discriminates severe from mild-to-moderate restricted, repetitive, and stereotyped behaviors. We enrolled 57 children aged 2–11 years; thirty-one with idiopathic autism and twenty-six neurotypical (NT), matched for age and ethnicity. The urine metabolome was investigated by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The urinary metabolome of autistic children was largely distinguishable from that of NT children; food selectivity induced further significant metabolic differences. Severe autism spectrum disorder core deficits were marked by high levels of metabolites resulting from diet, gut dysbiosis, oxidative stress, tryptophan metabolism, mitochondrial dysfunction. The hierarchical clustering algorithm generated two metabolic clusters in autistic children: 85–90% of children with mild-to-moderate abnormal behaviors fell in cluster II. Our results open up new perspectives for the more general understanding of the correlation between the clinical phenotype of autistic children and their urine metabolome. Adipic acid, palmitic acid, and 3-(3-hydroxyphenyl)-3-hydroxypropanoic acid can be proposed as candidate biomarkers of autism severity.
Localization and Actuation for MNPs Based on Magnetic Field-Free Point: Feasibility of Movable Electromagnetic Actuations
Authors: Kim Chan , Kim Jayoung , Park Jong-Oh , Choi Eunpyo , Kim Chang-Sei
Published: November 2020

Targeted drug delivery (TDD) based on magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) and external magnetic actuation is a promising drug delivery technology compared to conventional treatments usually utilized in cancer therapy. However, the implementation of a TDD system at a clinical site based on considerations for the actual size of the human body requires a simplified structure capable of both external actuation and localization. To address these requirements, we propose a novel approach to localize drug carriers containing MNPs by manipulating the field-free point (FFP) mechanism in the principal magnetic field. To this end, we devise a versatile electromagnetic actuation (EMA) system for FFP generation based on four coils affixed to a movable frame. By the Biot–Savart law, the FFP can be manipulated by appropriately controlling the gradient field strength at the target area using the EMA system. Further, weighted-norm solutions are utilized to correct the positions of FFP to improve the accuracy of FFP displacement in the region of interest (ROI). As MNPs, ferrofluid is used to experiment with 2D and 3D localizations in a blocked phantom placed in the designed ROI. The resultant root mean square error of the localizations is observed to be approximately 1.4 mm in the 2D case and 1.6 mm in the 3D case. Further, the proposed movable EMA is verified to be capable of simultaneously scanning multiple points as well as the actuation and imaging of MNPs. Based on the success of the experiments in this study, further research is intended to be conducted in scale-up system development to design precise TDD systems at clinical sites.
Random Error Reduction Algorithms for MEMS Inertial Sensor Accuracy Improvement—A Review
Authors: Han Shipeng , Meng Zhen , Omisore Olatunji , Akinyemi Toluwanimi , Yan Yuepeng
Published: November 2020

Research and industrial studies have indicated that small size, low cost, high precision, and ease of integration are vital features that characterize microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) inertial sensors for mass production and diverse applications. In recent times, sensors like MEMS accelerometers and MEMS gyroscopes have been sought in an increased application range such as medical devices for health care to defense and military weapons. An important limitation of MEMS inertial sensors is repeatedly documented as the ease of being influenced by environmental noise from random sources, along with mechanical and electronic artifacts in the underlying systems, and other random noise. Thus, random error processing is essential for proper elimination of artifact signals and improvement of the accuracy and reliability from such sensors. In this paper, a systematic review is carried out by investigating different random error signal processing models that have been recently developed for MEMS inertial sensor precision improvement. For this purpose, an in-depth literature search was performed on several databases viz., Web of Science, IEEE Xplore, Science Direct, and Association for Computing Machinery Digital Library. Forty-nine representative papers that focused on the processing of signals from MEMS accelerometers, MEMS gyroscopes, and MEMS inertial measuring units, published in journal or conference formats, and indexed on the databases within the last 10 years, were downloaded and carefully reviewed. From this literature overview, 30 mainstream algorithms were extracted and categorized into seven groups, which were analyzed to present the contributions, strengths, and weaknesses of the literature. Additionally, a summary of the models developed in the studies was presented, along with their working principles viz., application domain, and the conclusions made in the studies. Finally, the development trend of MEMS inertial sensor technology and its application prospects were presented.
Autochthonous Probiotics in Meat Products: Selection, Identification, and Their Use as Starter Culture
Authors: Munekata Paulo E. S. , Pateiro Mirian , Zhang Wangang , Domínguez Rubén , Xing Lujuan , Fierro Elena Movilla , Lorenzo José M.
Published: November 2020

The increasing demand for functional food is pushing the food industry to innovate the conventional and well-known foods. Producing functional foods, especially with probiotics in meat products, is an intricate and multistage task that involves: the selection of microorganisms with probiotic potential, the identification at strain level, and the evaluation of probiotic strains in the processing of meat products. The resistance to digestion, followed by the successful colonization in the small intestine and the safety are the main criteria used to select and identify (at strain level) a probiotic, as reported in recent studies about the autochthonous microbiota of meat products. Further insertion (as starter culture) in a meat system for fermentation is the simplest approach to obtain a probiotic meat product. Among the innumerous microorganisms naturally found in meat products, lactic acid bacteria (LAB) play a central role by fitting in both probiotic and meat products processing criteria.